ã€ŠLand of Athloraã€‹


 *Prologue - Era of the Gods and Beyond

    Many eons ago, the six gods created the world and they named their creation, Athlora. Yet upon Athlora''s completion, they saw their world empty and forlorn. Thus, they wished to fill the world not only with living beings, but to create sentient beings to populate their world.

    Silvia, the Goddess of Earth, loved giving life and created many creatures and sentient beings from the earth: The Dwarfs, Giants, Orc''s, Ogres, Halflings, Elves, and many more.

    The God of Fire, Tyr, wished to create being that was born of fire, and so the fiery Dragons and Phoenixes came to be. But even though both creations were born from the same fire, these two created beings from the instant they were born they fiercely competed for their creator¡¯s attention.

    Arial, the Goddess of Air, desired to create beings that were as free as the wind and thus not only did the birds of the sky come into being, but the sentient beings known as fairies were born.

    The God of Water, Caspian, wished to match the civilianized beings of Silvia and so he aspired to create civilizations not born on land, therefore the mer-people were created along with the many creatures of the sea.

    Aster, the Goddess of Soul, decided to create a race that served as messengers for the Gods, hence forth angels came into existence.

    The God of the Void, Dathan, had no desire to create living beings like his brothers and sisters. And thusly so he merely contented himself to watch over the new life forms upon Athlora.

    And so, all the living beings of the world, Athlora, lived in peace with one another as the Gods ruled in harmony. But even the Gods are subject to the whims of fate. And whether the Gods wished for change or not, all too soon the winds of fate blew signaling the brewing storm of destiny in the distance.

    Whether by fortune or cursed luck, the eldest of the gods, Dathan by sheer chance met a messenger of Aster, whose name was Delia. And within those few precious seconds of meeting the birth of something new and forbidden was born, love. What would have brought joy to all, if they had been both gods or living beings could only birth a great tragedy born from love between a God and a mortal creation.

    The Gods fearing such a catastrophe immediately set out too separate both lovers, but their brother begged and pleaded that he would never ask anything else of them. For the sake of their brother¡¯s happiness and out of their love for him, they permitted the forbidden union to continue. However, the Gods did warn their brother, that if a child was born from this forbidden union that said child could not be allowed to ascend and must remain as a mortal being. Their brother readily agreed to their demands and so there was great untold happiness for a time.

    Many thousand years later, a child was born to Delia and Dathan in secret. When the news of the child reached his brothers and sisters, they were wroth at his deceit; but all was forgotten upon seeing the joyous face of their brother. The Gods brought gifts and blessed the child named after the word joy, ¡°Fayne.¡±

    For many more years all was well until that dark day came, when Fayne became a man. On that day Fayne asked his father, when he would too would ascend to godhood. His father admonished him by saying, that a mortal being could not become a god. Fayne filled with anger turned his face away from his father and left never to return except to claim his birthright.

    Countless years passed with no word or sign of Fayne, but for his mother the sorrow was too great for heart and she perished. With the death of his wife, Dathan, secluded himself away from the Gods. The Gods did all that they could to comfort him, but all was in vain.

    Aster, at seeing her beloved brother in such grief sent her messengers to look high and low for her brother''s lost child. The years passed and not a single messenger returned. Concerned at the disappearance of her creations, Aster sent more messengers anew to look for the lost child and for her creations. And once more, no messenger returned. At her creations disappearance, Aster left her dwelling and went in search of the Gods. Years came and went until the Gods gathered together once more in what was once their united throne room. Aster spoke to the Gods of her worries concerning the disappearance of her messengers and her failure to find the beloved child of their brother, Dathan.

    The disappearance of the messengers greatly puzzled and they too, sent some of their creations in search of their brother''s child. And once again, there was no response. Aster even more concerned swiftly returned to her dwelling place among her remaining creations. However, what was once a beautiful paradise was merely a terrible wasteland. Aster wept at the terrible sight as all of the Gods and even Dathan were present.

    Upon arriving the God''s eyes were filled with horror at the sight of the horrifying wasteland. Aster, in anger spoke to her brother, Dathan, "See what your great love has brought us! Your child has all but destroyed all of my messengers and those that live are no longer mine, they have become something foul and twisted. Did you hate us so, brother, that you did not heed our words?"

    Dathan, knelt in front of Aster as he wept, "Forgive me, sister. I did not know this would come to pass.¡± Aster sadly smiled at her brother¡¯s words and pulled her brother, Dathan into her arms as they wept together. Having dried their tears, the Gods discussed what was to be done. They quickly sent word to all of their creations too ready for war.

    Fayne, the Fallen, returned to face the God''s and their armies with his twisted creations: the once proud wolves were twisted into a new race, werewolves; the remnants of the messengers would be forever known as demons; elves had been twisted into a race that needed blood, vampires; and so many more races were twisted and lost in those days.

    The Gods wept in pain and horror, but they could not bring themselves to destroy their creations, no matter how twisted and deranged they had become. The battle reigned for many years until the once blue sky turned to ash and dust. The green fertile land had become so drenched in blood that not a single living plant was able to grow. And the dead, so many dead, piles upon pile until there was no room to place the dead.

    The Gods finally having cornered Fayne, the Fallen and in their moment of triumph, Dathan, could not bring himself to end his own child''s life. Fayne, the Fallen, seeing his father¡¯s hesitation without hesitancy raised his own sword to end his father''s life. Dathan, watched in horror and despair as the blade fell and struck Aster and as the blade struck her, she too struck Fayne, the Fallen.

    As Aster fell, Dathan, caught her in his arms and cried out, "Why sister? Why?" Aster, through ragged breaths spoke for the last time, ¡°No father, should ever have to kill their own child." And thusly so the light went out of Aster¡¯s eyes as she turned into light bits and slowly dispersed in the wind as tears stained all the Gods faces.

    Before Dathan, could reach for the body of his child, Fayne, the Fallen, the gods took the body and said, "Brother, we will bury Fayne, the Fallen out of any living being''s reach, never to see the light of day again."

    As the Gods gazed at the broken world, Dathan, wished to retreat into solitude. But the Gods reprimanded him, ¡°Brother, Aster is gone, you must replace her now."

    And thusly so, the Gods once more rebuilt the world. Once their task was completed to ensure that the terrible and bloody era would never come again, the gods would seal themselves away from the world with only a few chosen receiving their divine blessings and be their champions on the world.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

    The Gods not capable of bringing themselves to destroy their twisted creations. They lessened the curse that was upon them, but even they could not fully reverse all the changes that had been done. To preserve even their creations even those twisted by Fayne, the Fallen; the Gods divided Athlora into five continents. In the center of the continents was Astria, Ira was to the northwest, Mira to the Northeast, Sara to the Southwest, and Hetra to the Southeast.

    As the God''s separated the lands, a small deformed messenger child was found by the elves. The gods joyfully healed the child, but the damage suffered was too great for his wings and long levity were lost. As the last pure creation in existence of their sister Astria, the Gods decided to bless the child with many gifts. They created a mate for the child and named them, Era and Aria; the first of their kind, their race being known as humans. Humans would be called by all of the living beings of the world of Athlora as the race most beloved by the Gods.

    And thus, their labor ended, the Gods withdraw from the world and the era of the Gods ended. With the Gods presence missing from Athlora, all of the various race brethren for a period of several thousands of years lived in peace and in separation from each other. Small tensions grew as time passed by, but none wished for war or bloodshed. And so, time continued swiftly passing by for hundreds of thousands of years with each race in seclusion from each other.

    Many races greatly prospered and created vast empires and such marvels that the world had never seen. Yet one day, a frost giant by the name of Taiga, while foraging for food came across a beautiful crafted jewel with a black stone in the center. Enchanted by its beauty, he greedily reached for the pendant. As he took the pendant in his hands, the pendant crumbled away, and a black mist dissipated away into the air.

    The pendant had somehow contained a fragment of the Fallen one. The Frost Giant, Taiga returned changed to his village. Soon he whispered and promised riches and untold powers to his people. With ease Taiga convinced many of the Frost Giants to follow him and soon had gathered and taken control of all of his people''s shamans and wizards. The shamans and wizard toiled for many days before casting a most powerful and terrible spell forever known as, "Eternal Frost."

    Once the spell was cast much of the land and seas was instantly frozen and covered in snow. Many of the races suddenly found themselves at the brink of extinction. The chosen champions of the gods called forth all the brethren races to march under their banners. All the races heeded their call and soon came. None except for the chosen knew that the uprising of the Frost Giants was due to a fragment of the Fallen one.

    They waged a mighty and terrible war, and many fell against the powerful Frost giants. Often the soldiers would climb over the fallen bodies of their comrades and continue their merciless march. The few chosen left at last cornered Taiga, the Destroyer. The chosen labored for many days until they at last slew him, before burning his body until not a single speck of flesh was left behind.

    Two-thirds of the Frost Giant race had perished during the war. All but the young females and children of the Frost Giant''s still lived. The chosen mercyfully stopped the other races from destroying the remnants of the Frost Giants. The chosen exiled the remaining children of the Frost Giants across the great Tessa Mountains, far to the north, where no man would ever find them.

    The Gods warned the chosen to guard against the fragments of the Fallen one. They swore an oath of secrecy and to keep an eternal watch against the darkness. All the races would come to know this war as the First Great Supremacy War.

    With the destruction of the Frost Giant''s shamans and wizards; but most of all with the death of Taiga, the Destroyer, the world returned too normal. The great ice age ended and soon the races returned to rest in their homes. But the Ogres vowed to their goddess, Silvia, to never wage war and raise their blades against any of their fellow created brethren by the goddess, Silvia.

    Once more all the brethren races lived in harmony for a period of thousands of years in separation from each other. As usual, small tensions grew as time passed by. And so, time peacefully continued passing for over ten thousand years with each race in seclusion from each other. Unfortunately, too soon came the day came when another fragment was found by Polaris of the Mer-people, a simple artisan. As he began to gather followers from the mer-people nations, a few wise mer-kings sent swift words to the chosen. Quickly the chosen assembled and slew Polaris, the Insatiable.

    Once more the brethren races continued to live in peace for thousands of years with races slowly beginning to once more live with each other and among each other¡¯s land. But that peace was all too brief before another fragment was found by Rendor, a powerful warrior among the dwarves. Challenged by a young dwarven prince, Rendor, the Merciless, easily slaughtered the dwarf youth. The Dwarf king at seeing the terrible change in his friend and ruthless cruel death of his son quickly sent for the chosen ones.

    The Kings summoned Rendor, sadly knowing that his former good friend, would slay him at the first opportunity given. Having thus set a trap, Rendor eagerly went forth to meet with the king. The chosen easily surrounded Rendor, the Merciless and destroyed him.

    Peace returned to remain undisturbed for thousands of years. With all the races freely living among each other¡¯s lands. Humans gladly inter-wedded with many races and prosperity reigned in all the lands. The fallen fragments having learned to be wise and cunning from previous holders with great care approached, the princess of the Dark Elves, Neva. The princess swiftly became corrupted and bid her time until her ascension to the throne. Since, she was a great and powerful sorceress; she easily convinced or enchanted her fellow brethren to follow her as she slowly gathered great strength and power from the within the shadows.

    As the years passed by Neva of the Dark Elves impatient for her mother''s death arose in rebellion and slew her mother in cold blood; therefore, coming to possess the throne. Soon, her armies marched into the human realms and swiftly conquered half of the human realms. Neva, the Deceitful, convinced half of the remaining human realms to willingly follow her into battle. As Neva¡¯s immense powers grew steadily day by day. The chosen in hopeless horror quickly retaliated but to no avail. The brethren races heeded the desperate call of the chosen and swiftly rode to their aid. However, the chosen were plagued by all sides and would not be able delay her vast armies long enough for reinforcements to arrive.

    Caught in a desperate situation, the chosen called for the Ogres. The Ogres had sworn to their goddess, Silvia, to never meddle in the affairs of their fellow brethren again. Yet at seeing the desperation of the chosen and their fellow brethren, they willingly heeded their desperate calls for aid. With great sadness, the Ogres forsook their pledge and begged for clemency from the goddess, Silvia in hopes she would forgive their oath breaking. With solemn hearts, the Ogres once more took up arms against their brethren. The Ogre army singly held the battlefield for five days and five nights without rest nor reinforcements.

    Finally, on the sixth day the armies of their brethren finally arrived. The army quickly overturned the tide of the war. The chosen and the army easily slaughtered their way through the army of the dark elves. As the chosen surrounded Neva, the Deceitful, she cursed the Ogres with her dying breath. They had been the sole reason her victory had been stolen from her hands that day and swore that those that they had fought for today would surely turn on them one day as well.

    The chosen carefully burned and destroyed Neva, the Deceitful¡¯s body. The Kings of the human realms angered and ashamed at their own actions sent forth many paladins and knights to destroy the Dark Elven lands. The knights and paladins were ordered to erase every single being of the Dark Elf kingdom. As the Ogres marched home, they happened to cross paths with the human knights and paladins. The Ogres at seeing their helpless Dark Elven brethren slaughtered, wept many tears. They had sworn to never waste life again and yet could they so cruelly turn their backs on their fellow brethren?

    The Ogres would not allow for such a transgression to take place in front of them. In anger, they took up arms against the human knights and paladins slaughtering them without mercy. The Ogres faithfully protected the woman and children of the Dark elves, who were still their brethren. When, the chosen arrived they too were angered by the action of the Kings of the human realms. The Champions severely reprimanded the human realms but took no further actions against them. The Ogres furious at the chosen ignoring the sins of the humans swore to never have dealing with the human realms again. The Ogres completely withdraw from the human realms and returned to their own lands.

    However, the Kings of the Human realms never forgave the Ogres. For their audacity to stand for what was right, but most of all for daring to defy them. They were the chosen race by the Gods, not the Ogre''s. That day hatred was born in the heart of man for any that dared to oppose mankind: the ogres, demons, kobolds, goblins, the orc''s, and so many more. And thusly so, humans would no longer view them or any other race as their fellow brethren or fellow human beings. Very few races escaped the mankind¡¯s judgment with the being branded as monster''s to be hunted and exterminated or in worse cases as slaves. And so, that would become the last Great Supremacy War as all calendars would begin to be counted from then on by how many years it had been since, the last great war.

 *Chapter 1 - Brothel

    Micaellis is situated as the capital of the human Kingdom of Leair. The year is 1511, the tenth day in the seventh month. The summer had thus far been pleasant and yet an unusual storm had been brewing in the distance to final arrive later that evening. All day it had simply been pouring with great boughs of lighting and thunder filling the sky.

    The stormy weather had made it almost impossible for any coaches to traverse the city that day. The clock rung twelve and yet at that this late hour, a lone coach was seen making it''s making way through the city at great haste.

    Now, that was not unusual in itself seeing a seedy coach traversing the city through any weather and at any hour. Yet to any onlooker that particular night, the coach would have been immediately recognized as pertaining to a wealthy nobleman''s household.

    As the coach reached the business district, the coach did not stop continuing hastily through. Even when the middle-class sector was reached, the coach still skidded down the road at great speed. Too much great surprise and avail, the coach slowed down upon reaching the city''s seeder sector. The coach slid to a stop at a wealthier pleasure house owned by Madam Norialise.

    The nobleman inside the coach motions to the coachman to knock on the door. The coachman jumps from his seat onto the muddy streets and quickly makes his way to the door. The coachman bangs on the door and waits for any response from within. After several minutes, the coachman was about to knock on the door once more, when the door flew open.

    A beautiful middle-aged brunette with green eyes stood at the door, who in her prime had won quite a share of gold and silver and thusly enabling her to open her own brothel. Madam Norialise stood in a fine blue silk gown glaring angrily at the coachman. "Well, what is it that you want at this ungodly hour at my establishment?" She demanded to know from the drenched coachmen.

    The coachman merely points at the coach, before returning to the coach to open the door for his master. A hooded nobleman steps down from the coach and rudely pushes his way past the Madam and enters the brothel. Indignantly the Madam turns to yell for her guards, when the nobleman pushes down his hood revealing a well dressed, silver haired older nobleman. The nobleman has stern features and slatted violet eyes showing his vampirism heritage. The Madam quickly knelt down in front of him, "Forgive me, Duke Dalvair for not recognizing you,¡± as the Duke merely waves his hand in acknowledgement.

    The Madam arose and quickly sent for a servant to bring forth beverages for the Duke. The Madam seats herself across from the Duke and waits for servant boy to return. As the servant boy brings forth beverages, the Duke motions for the servant to leave. At his dismissal, the servant boy sends inquiring glances at the Madam, but she quickly motions for him to depart. The servant boy like a mouse scurries at full speed out of the room.

    The Madam waits quietly for Duke Dalvair to begin to speak. No matter how much she searches within her mind, she cannot recall Duke Dalvair ever visiting her pleasure house. She wonders, how she or her house may have incurred his lordships wrath. She had merely made his acquaintance once before and that was at a large festivity held by a higher-class pleasure house.

    She demurely clasps her hands in her lap and prays that he does not kill her or damage any of her household. If he we were to take such actions, her pleasure house reputation would plummet, and she would lose more than a few of her clientele.

    After finishing his wine glass, he sets down the glass onto the table with a thump. The duke opens his mouth to speak, "Who is your most well-liked male whore among the female clientele?"

    The Madam hesitantly pauses before answering, "It would depend on what one is looking for my Lord."

    At the Duke''s frown, the Madam quickly adds, "Generally speaking, it would be Zarris, a half-blood elf," after a moment''s pause she hastily adds, "My lord."

    "I see. Bring him to me." The Duke demanded.

    The Madam quickly arose and sent for Zarris. The Madam returned to her seat all the while absorbed in her thoughts. Zarris was a troublesome half-elf to manage since he refused to sleep with any of the male clientele, but he was well worth the effort as one of her highest earners.

    A bare-chested seven-foot-tall half-elf appears in the hallway. The half-elf has large blue eyes, that are so dark, that they almost drain the very light from the air, thick long black hair pulled into a braid that reaches his waist with skin so pale that there is a tinge of blue that can be seen, and a surprisingly muscular body for that of an elf.

    The half-elf¡¯s handsome face is rather puzzled as he bows to the Madam and her guest. Thin violet lips twist into a faint smile showing a hint of pointed pale teeth. "Is there a reason for my slumber to be interrupted at this hour?" Zarris asked of them.

    Duke Dalvair laughs at his question. "Well, I can see why my daughter paid for you." His eyes narrow at Zarris and a pleasant warm smile at appears on his face, but the warmth of his smile does not reach his cold eyes. "Do you know who my daughter is half-breed? Do you know who I am for that matter?" The Duke pointedly said.

    Zarris glances inquiringly at the Madam, wondering if the nobleman is here to end his life or request a punishment of sorts. He had never seen nor met the nobleman before and could not possibly guess how he could have insulted him. Zarris bows his head to the nobleman and politely replies, "I apologize my lord, I do not know who thine daughter is nor your identity. Please enlighten this lowly servant of yours."

    Duke Dalvair lips transform into a cold smile as he rises from his seat and moves speedily towards Zarris. Before Zarris can ask again, Duke Dalvair slaps Zarris with all of his might leaving a large bruise on his handsome face.

    Zarris eyes widen in shock and in anger as he digs his nails into his palms keeping his head down hiding the fury in his eyes. If he showed any sign of anger, he was sure that the Madam would punish him after the nobleman left. And that was if the nobleman did not request a punishment be given to him or personally demanded to deliver the punishment himself.

    Duke Dalvair bellows in anger at him, "How dare a half-breed impregnate my daughter, do you know the trouble you have caused me half-breed? My daughter is to be married to the eldest son of the King. If the King finds out, that not only did my daughter sleep with a whore but had a child; we will not only become the laughing stock of the entire kingdom! The King will cease to deal with us and our entire vampire clan will suffer."

    Zarris''s and the Madam''s eyes widen in disbelief at the revelation. "I have a child?" Zarris sheepishly asks the Duke. He should not be able to have children due to the slave crest upon his wrist. All slaves belonging to pleasure houses have slave crests upon them that prevent the male slaves from impregnating their female clientele and the female slaves from being impregnated by their male patrons.

    The Duke furiously paces in front of Zarris and the Madam, back and forth between them."Yes, you half-breed mongrel, you have a child! A half-breed as well!" The Duke Dalvair roars at the revelation.

    Duke Dalviar turns on his heels and switches to next target. He yells furiously at the Madam, "What kind of establishment are you running here? Are not all whores equipped with slave crests that prevent impregnation?" The Madam wordlessly nods her head in response.

    "Really, father, must you lower yourself to your baser instincts? What a truly ghastly sight that is," a lovely voice called out. Without hesitation, they all turn towards the owner of the voice. The hooded figure pulls down her hood revealing a silver haired, violet slit eyed beauty.

    The beautiful, well figured noblewoman lifts her skirt with one hand and demurely enters the brothel as the coachman mutely follows carrying a small fine woven basket.

    Duke Dalvair smirks, "Allow me to introduce my lovely daughter, Moria." Duke Dalvair claps his hands together theatrically, "Speak of the Devil and the Devil shall appear. You speaking of not lowering oneself to baser instincts? If that was case, we would not be here, now would we?" He irritably snaps back at his daughter.

    Moria crosses her arms over her generous ample chest and pouts, "Father, no need to be rude. It''s not as though I loved the half-breed. Alona of the House of Gareth wanted him, I couldn''t let her have him, so I stole him first.¡± She unapologetically said as she runs her eyes over Zarris and licks her red lips as she muses out loud, "However, I must admit, he was well worth the coin I had to pay."

    A smile can''t help but blossom on Duke Dalvair face at her words. He fondly smiles at her and pulls his daughter, Moria, into his arms. "That''s my sweet pea," he fondly said. Moria turns her head away indignantly pouting, "Hmph, if that was the case, then why did you make me bear that mongrel half-breed child?"

    Duke Dalvair raises his eyebrow at his daughter words and explains, "Now sweet pea, if I hadn''t, you would have never learned your lesson, now would you?" Duke Dalvair gently pats her on the shoulders, "Next time, sweet pea, you''ll make sure to not become with child and especially with a half-breed mongrel child at that."

    Hearing his cue, the coachman wordlessly hands the basket to Zarris. Laying inside, soundly sleeping lays a tiny pointy eared, black haired baby with such pale skin that there is tinge of blue. Zarris dumbly stares at the precious miracle in his arms as every feature of the tiny infant becomes forcefully ingrained into his mind.

    Moria, turns in her father''s arms and prettily smiles up at him. She bats her eyes at her father teasingly and says, "On the bright side father, my figure did improve vastly after I bore the half-breed. I''m sure that Prince Noel, will simply be delighted."

    The Duke Dalvair sniggers at her honesty and hugs his daughter once more to his chest, before releasing her. Duke Dalvair and Moria dismiss the Madam and Zarris with a nod of their heads. Moria intertwines her arms with that of her father and swiftly they exit the brothel out into the rain.

    Zarris watches in disbelief as they leave causally abandoning the child with him. He dumbly grips the precious cargo in his arms as he quickly runs after the nobles, while the coachmen helped Moria and the Duke into the coach. "Wait! Does the child have a name and how old is the child?" Zarris yells at their retreating backs.

    Moria with resignation on her face turns and curtly answers, "She is ten days old. As for a name, who would bother naming a half-breed mongrel? " Moria dismisses him and enters the lavish coach. Once comfortably seated inside the coach, she casts a powerful mind spell erasing the half-breed mongrel¡¯s existence completely from her mind.

    Zarris desperately turns to the Duke and says, "Wait! Are you truly not concerned for her future well being at all? She is only a child!"

    Duke Dalvair causally reaches into his coat and throws a bag of gold at Zarris. "That should provide for any education she desires at a brothel," Duke Dalvair emotionlessly said as he turns his back on the pleasure slave and enters the lavish coach. The coachman closes the door behind the Duke and climbs to his porch atop of the coach.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.

    Zarris glares furiously at Duke Dalvairs departing figure as rage clouds his innermost thoughts. "Nobles always think that they can get out of anything with their dirty money, well I''ll prove them wrong," he firmly stated in his mind. Zarris gently tosses the money bag in his palm, testing its weight. He firmly clutches the money bag in his hand and raises his arm to throw the bag as hard as he can.

    A small protest is suddenly heard from inside the basket as his body instantly stiffens instinctively at the noise being made. Zarris slowly peers inside the basket and sees the baby girl sleepily open her dark blue slit eyes and stare sleepily into his. Her eyes seem to ensnare him into their depths as she yawns drowsily revealing tiny little fangs.

    The baby girl fiercely reaches with her tiny hand and warps her hand around his forefinger. She clings to his forefinger, before sighing contently and closing her eyes again. Warm feelings bubble from underneath the dry surface of his heart. Water gushes from unknown depths, drowning all thoughts and opposition. Until once more, his heart is brimming with warm feelings; not felt since he was made a slave.

    From inside the coach the Duke orders the coachmen to depart from the filthy brothel. The coach sets off with a squelch. Rapidly gaining speed across the muddy road and fading into the distance.

    Zarris no longer caring about the nobles turns his back on the rapidly departing coach. As he enters the brothel, Madam Norialise is impatiently waiting for him as she taps her slippers against the floor. Madam Norialise coldly snorts, "Well, show me your slave crest, I want to make sure it is still active." Zarris narrows his eyes at the implication of her words, that the child cannot possibly be his. He extends his arm to the Madam as her long red nails scrape at his skin as she grabs his forearm.

    The Madam lowers her face to the slave crest and carefully scrutinizes every inch of the magical crest. After several minutes, she is unable to find any failure in the magical crest. The Madam sends a tendril of her magic into the crest to be certain. If the crest is being bypassed, it will glow at her use of magic upon it. The crest lays colorless at her magic proving that it is still in use.

    The Madam sighs in relief. If the crest had failed, the half-elf would have easily been able to kill her. She had little doubt in her mind, that he would if given the chance. The Madam grins triumphantly at him and walks closer to him and harshly says, "Let me see the child." Zarris protectively clutches the basket, but nonetheless reluctantly turns to show the Madam. The Madam grumbles, "Come morning, we will drop the child at the nearest orphanage."

    Zarris roughly pulls the basket away from the Madam and firmly says, "No, she is my child I will raise her!"

    The Madam bursts out in laughter at the half-elf¡¯s statement. "You''re a whore, what can you possibly teach her?" The Madam mockingly said as she wipes the tears from her eyes. The Madam tries to control the mirth in her voice, before continuing, "Beside she can''t possibly be your child, the magical crest upon you is still in effect."

    The Madam at seeing Zarris immovable stubborn face throws her hands up in exasperation. Once the half-elf makes a decision, he would not change his mind at all. His lapse in judgment will certainly make life more difficult for everyone in the household!

    Troubled at his lack of cooperation, the Madam carefully ponders a moment on what her next move should be until it dawns on her, the simple solution to her current predicament. Her heart calms down at having thought up at solution to the dilemma. The Madam smoothed her skirts confidently with her hands, before turning to face him. "I will allow you to keep her, if you can prove she is your child. But to be sure I will cast a family lineage blood spell,¡± the Madam cunningly said as glances at the half-elf waiting for his response. "However, if it turns out she isn''t your child, come morning, we will drop her off at the nearest orphanage," the Madam swiftly added.

    Zarris gazes gently at the sleeping child as there is no doubt in his mind that she is his child. Zarris reluctantly raises his gaze from the sleeping child and responds, "Agreed. However, once you are satisfied that she is my child. I will raise her, and you will not attempt to take her away from me."

    The Madam unhappily crosses her hands on her chest at his response. She opens her mouth to berate him and persuade him otherwise. "Even if she is your child, where can you raise her? This is a brothel not a nursery! Besides how will you service your customers, will you have your child watching? This is no place for a child!" The Madam shrieked at him.

    Zarris continues to stubbornly stare at the Madam and firmly states, "I will raise my child as I see fit." Zarris glances tenderly down at the sleeping child, before turning to face the Madam anew. Zarris raises an eyebrow at the Madam and mockingly says, "Well, get on with it, Madam."

    The Madam clenches her hands in anger at his mocking tone of voice. She almost raises her hand to him for his disrespect but stops herself. She knows full well, that such an action will only make him harder to deal with in the future. The Madam instead withdraws a small knife from within the folds of her silk gown and casually unsheathes the small dagger in front of his eyes. The Madam smiles unpleasantly at Zarris and says, ¡°Extend, your hand out.¡±

    Zarris extends his arm out as the Madam pricks a finger until a drop of blood swells. The Madam chants part of the blood spell as the blood drop rises from his finger hovering in the air. The Madam speedily sheathes her small blade and returns it to the folds of her silk dress, before reaching into the basket as Zarris instinctively pulls the basket away.

    Zarris narrows his eyes in suspicion at the Madam. If she is trying to hurt his child, she will surely come to regret it. The Madam sighs at the half-elf¡¯s antics and rolls her eyes, before saying, "I need a lock of her hair for the spell."

    Zarris gently reaches inside and plucks a single thread of hair from the babe¡¯s head as he carefully watches over her to make sure she did not awaken. To Zarris delight, his child continues to sleep soundly as ever. After being assured that his child is still sleeping peacefully, Zarris brusquely hands the lock of hair to the Madam.

    The Madam carefully takes the lock of hair and finishes the spell. ¡°If you are father and daughter, the hair and blood drop will intertwine. If you are not, the hair and blood drop will push each other away,¡± The Madam explained as they waited for the spell to work. After a few tense moments, the hair and the lock of blood glow and intertwined together.

    Zarris smiles in joy as the drop and hair intertwined together, before smugly glancing at the Madam who is still in shock and frozen with disbelief. The Madam opens her mouth in shock, the results should not be possible! Yet, somehow against all odds, this child had been born. The Madam staggers into the nearby chair and pours herself a glass of whiskey, before downing the entire glass down. By the time the truth hits her, Zarris had since left with his child.

    Tired of waiting for the Madam to respond Zarris had promptly walked to the kitchen. In the kitchen, there is an old maid still up at the late hour finishing preparations for the next day¡¯s meals. Zarris politely clears his throat to grab the attention of the old maid. The old turns her watery eyes on him as she rasps, "Well, what is it that you want boy?"

    In response, Zarris places the basket on the kitchen counter and motions to the basket with his head. The old maid slowly peers into the basket and notices the baby. In fear the old maid clutches her heart, before wildly grabbing for the broom that was leaning against the counter. The old maid fiercely whacks Zarris on the head as Zarris¡¯s eyes water in pain. ¡°You, filthy man! I will not allow you to use this baby in your whorish perversions, there is always a line that must never be crossed!" The old main sternly cried out.

    Zarris ducks the broom and grabs it out of the deranged old maid¡¯s hands. The old woman begins to shriek. "Madam! Madam!" Zarris quickly covers the old maids¡¯ mouth with his hand to keep her from waking the entire brothel.

    "Stop," Zarris franticly hissed at her, "She''s my child." At his words, the old crone stops struggling in his arms.

    The old maid glares at Zarris with her beady little eyes, "Hmph, why didn''t you say so boy. Hmph, you should be politer boy, now hand me my broom." Zarris reluctantly returns the wooden broom as the old maid cackles in delight, before impatiently saying, "Well, get on with it boy, what is it that you want?"

    Zarris rolls his eyes in exasperation and impatiently says, "My child will need to be fed soon, what can she be fed?"

    The old woman stares at the baby girl for a moment and mutters, "Well, how old is she?"

    "She is ten days old," Zarris steadily said.

    The old woman curiously asks, "Does she have any teeth?"

    Zarris nods and replies, "She has four fangs, two on top and two on the bottom."

    The old woman nods in satisfaction as she snorts, "Well, in that case, some milk and oatmeal or soft food with blood or slivers of meat."

    Zarris sighs in exasperation and through gritted teeth says, "I know that. However, where can I get it?"

    The old woman smacks Zarris painfully on the head with her broom. "I''ll prepare it for you of course, stupid boy," she rasped before toddling away.

    Zarris just glares at the crazy old bat as he rubs his throbbing head. Sniffing to himself, Zarris turns to study the tiny baby girl in the basket. With great fasciation, Zarris tilts his head from every angle comparing his features to hers and with great pride her features were a flawless match to his.

    The old maid speedily returns for someone of her age and places a bowl of baby food in front of Zarris. "Only feed her when she''s awake and hungry,¡± the old maid grumbled, before old raising her nose at him and sashaying away.

    Zarris glares at the old maids retreating back as he grabs the bowl from the table and most carefully picks up the precious basket with his other hand. Zarris unhappily mumbles under his breath as he leaves, "Of course I''ll feed her, while she''s still sound asleep. What does she take me for a fool?"

    Zarris most carefully climbs up the stairs and heads to his room on the second floor. A glimmer of light from under his bedroom door causes Zarris to pause as he raises his eyebrows in exasperation. And in reply the door opens to reveal a group of young trainee courtesan girls spread out evenly through his room.

    A thin fairy girl flaps her wings in excitement and says, "The coach''s arrival awoke us, so we sneaked downstairs and saw everything!"

    Zarris sighs ruefully at the girl¡¯s antics and kindly says, "If the Madam finds out, she will punish all of you."

    All the girls nod their heads solemnly in a promise to not speak of this. The fairy girl sticks out her pink tongue at Zarris and impishly replies, "We won''t tell! Now quickly show us the baby!"

    Zarris carefully places the bowl onto his small table, before walking to the center of the room and placing the baby girl on the bed. On the carpeted floor, a red-headed half-elf girl with missing feet crawls towards the bed. Zarris bends down and easily places the red-headed half-elf onto the bed as well. The fairy girl glares at Zarris and says, "No fair, how come Scarlett always gets picked up!"

    Zarris and the rest of the girls pointedly ignore her comment as the girls predatorily surround the basket as they coo and sigh over the baby girl, "She''s so cute!" The girls squeal with delight as they fight for a better view of the sweet babe.

    Zarris becomes temporarily distracted as he sadly stares at Scarlett''s feet. Lost in his own thoughts, Zarris remembers the tragic events of five months ago, when Scarlett had been sold to the brothel by her mother for five pieces of silver. Within days of her arrival, Scarlett had successfully run away and made it back home. Tragically it was all in vain, Scarlett¡¯s own mother would later turn Scarlett in for the 10 gold pieces being offered for Scarlett¡¯s return.

    Madam Norialise was not a kind soul and ruthlessly ran the brothel with an iron fist. Punishment was swiftly dwelt out and though the product would be damaged, it would serve as a warning to the rest of the trainees to keep them in line. And so, the cruel punishment was swiftly dwelt out, Scarlett¡¯s feet were cut off.

    Perhaps, Zarris would have experienced the same punishment had he run away, but unlike the rest of the brothel slaves, he was branded with a high-level magic crest which made it impossible for him to escape. And given Zarris¡¯s temper and strength, the Madam never took that chance with him and ensured that her interests would always be protected.

    Scarlett quietly turns toward Zarris and interrupts his train of thoughts by asking, "Have you thought a name for her yet?" All the girls instantly turn to face him and start giving suggestions one over another.

    "Quiet!" Zarris yelled over their voices as the girl¡¯s hush at his yell. The girls swiftly hush as Zarris thoughtfully says, "I''ll name her, Wren.¡±

    The fairy girl tilts her head, "Why are you naming her after a bird?" She bewilderingly asked.

    Zarris smiles and responds, "Wren means many things such as the magician of birds or the King of birds, don''t you know that?" Zarris teasingly said to her.

    The fairy girl squints her eyes at him and pompously says, "Of course I knew that!"

    Zarris lovingly peers into the basket and softly says, ¡°Besides, a bird can fly feely in the sky and I pray with all my heart that she will live her life so." The girls all nod at his words in understanding, after all, their lives were no longer their own.

    The baby girl softly begins to protest at the continued noisiness as the girl¡¯s predatory surrounding of the basket. Zarris sweats in dread at and hurriedly lifts the baby out of their reach, rescuing his poor in-defenseless child. "Girls it''s time for you to go to bed. If the Madame catches you out of bed, there will be consequences," Zarris sternly said. The girls sighed and groaned but do as they''re tell.

    Zarris watches in private relief as the girls begin to depart from his room. The fairy girl and some of the other girls help carry Scarlett out. Finally, the last girl leaves and Zarris firmly shuts the door behind him and sighs in relief. Exhausted after the night¡¯s events, Zarris tiredly weaves his way to the bed, before falling in a heap onto the bed. His last action is to protectively pull the cradle into his arms, before falling sound asleep.

 *Chapter 2 - Eighth Birthday

    -1<sup>st</sup> day of 7<sup>th</sup> Month of 1519

    In the capital, Micaellis of the human Kingdom of Leair and throughout the kingdom there is a great commotion as there is to be an immense masquerade ball to be held at the King''s palace for the unwed third prince to find a wife. All unwed females of the kingdom were invited to attend and present themselves at the palace, not considering their race, status, or circumstances. Quite literally the chance of a lifetime!

    Madam Norialise at receiving an invitation was most naturally thrilled. It was the perfect occasion for her to showcase her ladies to wealthy gentlemen and increase the reputation of her pleasure house. The Madam immediately orders the pleasure house to be closed for the next few days until the ball to have ample time to prepare all the available ladies to attend the masquerade. The pleasure house was in a flurry with preparations as the household servants prepared every single courtesan to attend the ball down to the young female trainees who had yet to take their first gentleman.

    Wren, who had been reading a book in her father''s room peeks out of the doorway and stares at the commotion in the hallway. Her father had specially told Wren not step out of their room, but in her defense, she technically wasn''t disobeying her father, what so ever.

    Servants run in and out of rooms carrying dresses to be ironed and tailored. Wren giggles at the frantic actions of the servants, who in their hurry had crashed with one another sending gowns plunging in every direction. That is until she notices a handsome tall Ogre dressed in fine black, silk clothing staring firmly at her.

    Zarris, who was returning from the kitchens with lunch saw the servants fly into one another. He had safely put down the lunch basket packed to the brim with food onto the floor, before helping the poor panicked servants gather the fine gowns from the floor. The pair of twinkling dark eyes that peeked form the doorway instantly vanished at his appearance as the door slams shut.

    Zarris is unable to hide his smile as he ruefully chuckles to himself at his daughter¡¯s actions. After he finishes helping the grateful servants gather the expensive garments from the floor, Zarris retrieves the lunch basket, before entering his bedroom. On the large wooden poster bed, there is a rather tall, female child reading a history book most intently. As Zarris places the basket with food on the table, the female child did not look up. Zarris raises his eyebrows and crosses his arms at his daughter¡¯s actions as he waits for her to speak knowing full well that she is frantically thinking up of an excuse on why she disobeyed him.

    Wren guiltily raises her eyes from her book to meet that of her father as she wryly smiles at him. "Father, I didn''t disobey your order to wander throughout the house today. All I did was peek into the hallway and that was only after I had finished reading the History of the Kingdom of Leair," Wren matter-of-factly stated as she unhappily ducks her head waiting for her father to lecture her for her disobedience. But she really hoped that he wouldn¡¯t!

    Zarris face contorts and twists unable to control himself, as he bursts out laughing. Zarris holds his stomach as he shakes from laughter until tears stream down his face causing Wren to chuckle as well. Wiping tears form his eyes, Zarris breathlessly says, "Did you see when they ran into each other?" Wren snickers and responds, "The clothes went whoosh; colorful clouds, flying into every direction."

    The bedroom is full of joyful laughter until Zarris finally catches his breath and leans toward his daughter. Zarris fondly pats her silky black hair and murmurs, "It was well the worth the time spent helping them. Now come on, it''s time to eat." Zarris pulls out four loaves of bread, one pound of raw meat, a large ham, a bushel of apples, and one wheel of cheese. Zarris evenly splits all the food in between both of them except for the raw meat, which is solely for Wren.

    Wren quickly begins to eat as Zarris tenderly studies his child. His daughter had long thick black hair pulled into a tidy braid with incredibly pale skin with a touch of blue that he and she shared. The black shirt and black pants fit her loosely, but at the rate she was growing, she will soon discard the garment. His daughter was already one meter tall and was little doubt in his mind that she would one day soon reach his height or surpass him. Zarris slightly leans closer affectionately comparing his features to hers. Their features are so similar, that they look more like brother and sister, then father and daughter. The one distinct difference is her slit eyes and the fangs, her only inheritance from her vampiric birth mother.

    Wren happily finishes eating all her food except the raw meat. Puzzled at her father''s behavior, she curiously asks, "Father, aren''t you hungry? Are you not going to eat?"

    Zarris coolly lies to his child, "I already ate in the kitchen. You''re still growing, so eat all of the food, so that you can grow big and strong." Wren happily accepts her father¡¯s proposal and eats her father''s portion as well.

    Zarris watches in fascination as Wren pulls the raw meat towards her to begin eating. A second later, a second row of razor sharp teeth emerges from behind her regular set of teeth. Zarris remembered the first time that happened was when she was six months old. As a small infant, Wren did not like having blood poured in her food. She would cry and wail absolutely refusing to eat until the blood was removed. But the problem was that Wren needed to be feed daily blood substances as she was half vampire.

    But not matter what Zarris did his child would still not eat the blood. Zarris was fraught with worry at seeing Wren grow weaker as time went on. In his desperation, Zarris decided to attempt to feed Wren bits of raw meat. And so that day, Zarris had begun feeding Wren small bits and pieces of raw meat, when a second set of razor teeth had appeared. In his shock, Zarris had almost dropped Wren onto the floor, luckily, he managed to still keep a grip on her. After having finished feeding the content infant, Zarris calmly explained to the infant that she could never show her second set of teeth to others. Somehow, Wren understood Zarris¡¯s words if not his concern and never did.

    Wren contentedly finishes munching on the raw meat as her second set of teeth retract into her gums once more as she contently pats her bulging belly and sighs, "That was wonderful father!" Wren quickly covers her mouth, letting out a small burp.

    Zarris tenderly smiles at his child and says, "Did you think I would forget what today was? After all, you''re finally eight years old!¡±

    "You remembered father, I did not think you would with all the commotion going on about!" Wren cheerful said as she jumps up and tightly hugs her father. Wren happily hopes her father had got her a new book to read or even better some exquisite delicacies to eat.

    Zarris tightly hug Wren back in response as he gently picks carries her in his arms. As he holds, Zarris reflexively remembers the small baby who once fit in crook of his arms. As a baby, Wren rarely cried except when she was wet or ill. A child who quickly learned to hide from his customers and never make any sounds. A child who rarely played with children of her own age, but even worse, a child who never knew what innocence, learning far too soon of the darkness and horrors that existed in the human heart.

    At his grim thoughts, Zarris arms protectively tighten around Wren as she struggles a bit in his arms in protest. Zarris smirks at her futile struggles and drops Wren onto the bed. Wren glares up at her father and sulkily turns her back on him.

    Zarris pulls on Wren¡¯s braid teasingly, "Now, now, if you behave like that, you won''t get anything."

    Wren eyes widen in expectation as she unhappily mutters, "This better be good. " To her surprise, her father walks to the bedroom door and locks the door. Wren''s eyes widen with unease as the first lesson her father taught her was to never go into anyone''s room without him and especially to never enter a guest''s bedchambers. Back then, Wren was far too young to understand his words nor truly understood why they couldn¡¯t leave this place if her father disliked it so.

    To better explain Zarris had shown her the beautiful intricate crest on his wrist and explained, "This is proof that I belong to someone. This crest will never allow me to leave this place." Even then, Wren understood that there was something wrong with such a statement for how can anyone belong to another person? But Wren had swallowed down her father¡¯s answer with sadness in understanding that they could not leave.

    Older, one day, Wren had been cruelly enlightened by the beggar children as they called her, a whore¡¯s daughter. Still a child Wren did not understand the beggar children until they pointed at the mating alley cats in alley. The beggar children jeered and said, that¡¯s what your father does for coin. Sick to her stomach, Wren finally understood what happened behind closed doors in the household. But even more so, Wren finally understood why their home was called, a pleasure home. But even more so explained her father¡¯s actions in always bathing after he had a guest unable to abide the sense of filth.

    However, what truly destroyed Wren¡¯s last bit of innocence was when a guest had spotted Wren and asked the Madam, when Wren would come available for bedding. Wren now understanding the nature of the business could not understand how a child such as herself could serve an adult. Disillusioned and afraid, Wren never wandered freely throughout the house nor much less left the house to play in the backstreets of the brothel.

    Wren is awoken out of her reverie as Zarris moves the truck next to the bedframe. Zarris carefully pries the loose board and removes a pouch, before returning everything to the usual position. Seeing Wren so still, Zarris smiles a comforting smile as he takes a seat next to his daughter. Zarris tenderly removes a silver chain with a blue crystal embedded in the middle and places it on Wren. "This belonged to my mother, who gave me her pendant the day I turned eight years old, and now I give it to you." Zarris softly said as he pauses, "This is all I have left from her-, treasure it with all of you heart, my little one."

    Wren clutches the pendant protectively in her hands and vehemently vows, "I promise, I will protect it well.¡± Wren carefully places the pendant inside her shirt and pats her clothes down, making absolutely certain that the chain is not visible on the outside.

    Zarris grins at his daughter¡¯s actions and says, "Good now-," when a knock at the door is heard. Wren instantly grabs the pouch out of her father''s hands and hides it inside her shirt. Zarris appears startled for a moment, but a glint of approval appears in his eyes at his daughter¡¯s quick reaction as he hastily rises to his feet and unlocks the door.

    Several young ladies stand at the door next to Lumi, who is at the helm of the group. Lumi had once been a thin fairy trainee girl and was a now a very popular courtesan. Lumi pushes her way past Zarris as a noisy entourage of girls follows and swiftly quickly surround Wren preventing her escape from their perfumed grasp.

    A group of women carry Scarlett and upon seeing them do so, Zarris immediately takes her from their arms and carries her to the bed amid the flock of girls. Finished, Zarris stares down his nose at them and rather crossly says, "What are all of you doing here? Aren''t you supposed to be getting ready for the masquerade? If the Madam-."

    Lumi rudely interrupts Zarris, "What the Madam doesn''t know, can''t possibly hurt her. Besides we''ve finished dressing ages ago,¡± she cheerfully said as she sticks out her pink tongue at him and waves her fan in his face.

    Scarlett gently smiles at Zarris and attempts to appease him, "Please don''t be angry. We came to visit Wren; it is after all her birthday today."

    Wren turns pleading puppy dog eyes onto her father. "Please father, just a couple of minutes!" Wren begged him.

    Zarris sighs in defeat and replies, "Very well, but only a couple of minutes." All the ladies surround Wren and take turns drowning her in their plentiful chests causing Wren to wrinkle her nose at the overpowering distasteful flower scent emitted from their bodies.

    Lumi mischievously smiles at Wren, "Now close your eyes. We all pitched in to get you a small gift," she excitedly said.

    One of the ladies covers Wren''s eyes as Scarlett reaches under her skirt and pulls out a cloth sack. "You can look now," Lumi enthusiastically said.

    Wren removes the sweet-smelling hands covering her eyes and sees the sack. Wren eagerly pulls the sack towards herself and rips open the sack to finds ten new books. Wren happily confirms that all ten volumes are magic/rune books. Why, just one book is expensive, but ten books combined are worth a fortune!

    Zarris frowns a bit as he reads the book titles and says, "How could all of you afford these books, they''re worth a fortune?"

    Lumi smacks Zarris on the back of the head with her fan. "Why are you worrying about money? Stop trying to ruin the mood, you, idiotic man!" Lumi crossly hissed.

    Zarris rubs the sore back of his head as he opens his mouth to retort back but stops at the look of glee on his daughter''s face. Zaris closes his mouth and crosses his arms in annoyance as he most certainly does not glare evilly at Lumi, while praying for the wrath of the God''s to befall her.

    Scarlett noticing Zarris and Lumi''s heated staring contest worriedly intercedes between them. "We didn''t steal them, Zarris. One of my patrons is a wealthy book merchant. When, I told him, I wanted to buy some magic books. He told me, he would sell the books at one-tenth of the price, if I bought ten books. I told the Ladies and they all agreed it was a good idea. We all brought the books together."

    Wren excitedly hugs the books to her chest, "Thank you, everyone! I will most defiantly treasure them," Wren gratefully said, causing the Ladies to squeal at the cute expression on Wren¡¯s face.

    "Ahem," a distinct cough is heard from the doorway as they all direct their gazes towards the figure at the door, a well dressed, coach footman is in the doorway. "It is time to depart. Please follow me downstairs, Ladies. Also, I am here to carry a Miss Scarlett," he politely said.

    The ladies give Wren a final hug as they head downstairs as Wren waves fondly goodbye to them. Lumi taps Zarris lightly on the head with her fan in reminder, before triumphantly flouncing away. Zarris snorts in reply, before gently reaching for Scarlett and carrying her over to the footman, who carried her to the waiting carriages.

    Wren slides off the bed and walks to the window to watch the Ladies depart in a long winding line of coaches headed to the masquerade ball. Wren quietly hopes that maybe against all odds that one of the girls gains the prince''s heart as the last coach disappears into the next street. Catching a whiff of herself as she turns away from the window, Wren¡¯s nose waters as she mumbles, "Now I really do smell like a whore house."

    Zarris, who was closing the door whips his head back and sternly says, "What do you mean by that?" Disappointed at his daughter¡¯s words, Zarris sternly eyes Wren.

    Wren guilty looks down and remorsefully says, "I didn''t mean it like that father. I just heard one of the servant boys say it, to describe strong perfume smells. I''m sorry.¡± She knew better than anyone that her father hated such an attitude towards the girls and was rather protective of them as several times, he had to forcefully throw patrons out onto the street, because they were hurting the girls.

    Zarris sighs and pulls Wren into his arms. "I know you didn''t mean anything, but my child, please remember that most of the people in this house didn''t have a choice. Do you think your careless remark wouldn''t have hurt the Ladies, if they had been heard by them? Please choose your more words carefully,¡± Zarris quietly murmured. Zarris didn''t mean to vent his frustration onto his daughter, but he hated people''s assumptions of pleasure slaves. The most common ones were that all pleasure slaves enjoyed their profession or willingly sold themselves to pleasure houses for wealth and status.

    Wren tightly wraps her arms around him and buries her head into his chest. Zarris gently caresses her hair and says, "Now go put your books away. I have more things to show you." A gentle smile creeps up his face as he watches Wren scurry away from him obeying his every word as fast as she can. Wren gently puts her precious books away in the small wooden trunk that her father had brought her. With a thump, Wren slams the trunk shut and crawls back to the bed, before reaching into her shirt and handing the pouch to him.

    Zarris contemplative removes the small moneybag and gloomily studies it, trying to find the right way to explain the terrible truth behind her birth. "Wren, its time I told you how you were born," Zarris said with great difficulty.

    Wren shrugs and coolly answers, "I already know father. The woman who gave birth to me is the current first prince, Noels'' wife. She is a vampire of the noble House of Dalvair. And her father, who forced her to give birth to me as punishment is the clan head, Duke Morgan Dalvair."

    Zarris mouths falls open, "How do you know that?" Zarris unhappily asked as he knew for a fact he had never mentioned to her. Zarris¡¯s face pales at the thought of possibly have mentioned it in his sleep.

    Wren shrugs, "When I was younger and since I was so small; I could easily sneak around the house. One day, I snuck into the Madam''s parlor and I overheard Madam Norialise, retelling the story to her apprentice, Miss Sasha. But, it''s not as through it matters, father. I know what I am, I am an Ogre, of course," she proudly explained.

    Zarris shakes his head in disbelief at Wren¡¯s confession and says, "Well, your actions certainly prove you''re my daughter, if nothing else." Zarris dramatically pauses for a moment deep in thought trying to guess, how Wren could have possibly sneaked away from him long enough for him not to have noticed her disappearance. No matter how he racked through his mind, he was unable to think of any point in time when that could have possibly transpired.

    Wren¡¯s eyes bore into Zarris in annoyance at the long stretch of silence causing Zarris to cough guiltily. Zarris hastily says, "Well in that case, can you guess who this bag of coins belongs too?"

    Wren nods, "It would be the bag of money from Duke Dalvair, right?" She said.

    Zarris nods his head in confirmation. " This money will help secure your future and it should be enough to pay for schooling once you are older," Zarris solemnly declared as he carefully returns the money bag to the pouch.

    Wren peers into the pouch and notices some potion vials and a map. Wren eyes brighten in hopes that she could get such a neat pouch too. Though where and when did her father get such things? Potions were not cheap, and maps were never sold to slaves.

    Zarris clears his throat to regain Wren¡¯s attention and says, "Now, it''s time, I told you, why I call myself an "Ogre," and not a blood-elf."

    Wren interrupts him, "Well, because one of your parents was an Ogre and we belong to an Ogre clan," she self-assuredly said.

    Zarris glowers at Wren and growls, "Do you want to learn our clan history or not?" Wren nods in agreement and motions zipping her mouth shut. Zarris begins to tell the story as he gazes into empty space and is transported far away.

    "Long ago, after the era of the gods, when the world was still recovering from the many supremacy wars. Our Ogre clan was not what it once was. We who had once been created to enjoy peace now openly delighted in the shedding of blood. What was once pure had now become twisted and corrupt. Perhaps, a curse from our goddess Silvia for breaking our vow or the dying curse of Neva, but the women of our people became infertile and had great difficulty in bearing children. The clan heads in those days searched for a solution and found one.

    A human female child was found and raised by an Ogre family. She grew to love and wed and Ogre bearing him many strong ogre children. The clans celebrated in joy at finding a solution for the decaying infertility. And so, with great hope the clan heads went and begged the humans for human wives to ensure our people''s survival.

    Angry and bitter at the humiliation their ancestors suffered at the Ogre¡¯s hands the humans turned the clan head''s away stating, that no human women would be willing to bear our children. In wrathful fury, the clan heads spilled their own blood onto the ground and made a blood vow to the humans that day, that they would surely come to regret this. If the humans would not give us wives willingly, then they would take them by force.

    The clan heads swiftly departed from the human lands and returned to their tribes. And so, the vicious cycle began, many of the clans arose and captured human women to breed. Our Ogre clan head did join in out of love of his adopted daughter, the human female who loved her Ogre husband. To prevent a splitting of the tribe, the clan head gathered his ogre clan and fled far to the north out of the reach of any clan and from the hands of humans.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

    The clan lived in peace for many years, but few children were born unto them. Unable to bear it after so many years, the clansmen begged the clan head to allow them to steal human wives. The clan head refused, but in great sorrow allowed for those that did not wish to follow him to depart in peace. Many did and what was once a great ogre clan was now a small village.

    One day, while the clan head hunted for food, he came across a young, but exceedingly large female caught in a trap with black hair, blue eyes, and blue skin. To thank the clan head, the female led him to her village, the Frost Giants.

    The Frost Giants village mainly consisted of females as the males left in search of wealth and thus, many of young female frost giants were not wed. The Frost Giant Matriarch asked the clan head if he knew of a solution and the clan head at seeing this rejoiced greatly, promising to return with a solution. With great haste, the clan head returned to his village and ordered his people to pack up and depart as wives had been found. With great rejoice, the village left and met with the Frost Giant village.

    At seeing the unmated Ogres and the many unwed female Frost Giant¡¯s both sides were overjoyed. As such an agreement was struck with both village leaders, the Frost Giant women would choose a husband according to the giant tradition by proving their husband¡¯s great strength, but in exchange the Ogre clan head would rule the tribe. And so, to both parties¡¯ great delight the unwed women took ogre husbands and many children were born unto them giving birth to our Frost Ogre Clan," Zarris said.

    Wren eyes widen in disbelief at her father. "We have frost giant blood?" She incredulously asked.

    "Of course. Do you not notice how you and I have a bluish tint to our skin, our dark hair, and blue eyes? Also have you ever been cold?" Zarris said as Wren shakes her head. "As their descendants, we do not become cold, very easily. And even at your young age, you already able to already control water and ice magic," Zarris happily said only to be interrupted by Wren¡¯s grumbling stomach.

    "If I hadn''t seen you eat, I would most certainly believe your hungry face,¡± Zarris said with a chuckle, ¡°The story can wait until after a bit to eat.¡± Zarris unlocks the door and they head towards the kitchen to find the kitchen empty of any servants. Knowing his way around the kitchen, Zarris scours the cupboards until he finds bread, raw/dry meat and many more snacks. Once seated down they immediately dig into their feast.

    As Wren eats some raw meant, she curiously asks, "Father, why do I have a second set of teeth?" Unless, I''m sort of freak of nature, she thought to herself.

    Zarris answers slowly, while chewing, "In the clan stories such an ability has usually been common in male clan heads and not in the female clan heads." Zarris pauses for a moment as he swallows down his food and then continues saying, "The reason for a second set of teeth; when the clan head went into battle and vanquished their enemy, the clan head would devour the body of their enemy to absorb some of their strength. And in some rare cases, the clan heads, were able to absorb some of their enemy¡¯s abilities. Sadly enough, at most the absorption ability could only be used a few times."

    Zarris takes another mouthful of food and chews. "Maybe, you are meant to be the next clan head of our Frost Clan," Zarris astutely said causing Wren to beam. The two become quiet as they eat, before heading back upstairs and returning to their room as before.

    "Now, I will tell you of how I came into existence, ¡°Zarris said as he began to weave his tale.

    "It was the ninth month in the year of 1495. My mother, Ara was still a young girl only 12 years old by our clan¡¯s standard, but by human standards nearly 16 years of age. Despite Ara¡¯s age, she was almost seven feet tall with long black hair always worn in a neat braid and pale skin with a tint of blue and dark blue eyes that always seemed to twinkle with light of the stars.

    My grandfather, Calder, the head of our Frost Clan was away at the time with men hunting for food to store for the upcoming winter. Unfortunately, while away the village was attacked by human adventures and their party members. Ara swiftly gathered the women and children and sent them into the woods to hide. While the few male clansmen left in the village struggled in vain against the adventures.

    Ara being as strong as she was valiantly wielded two large gladius blades to stop the intruders and gain precious time for the clansmen to hide. Roused by the fierce battle, a member of the adventurer group, a blood elf challenged her. Ara fought as fiercely as possible, but she was no match for him. Seeing Ara falter one of the last remaining clansmen entered the battle and urged Ara to flee into the woods.

    Swift on her feet, Ara fled into the woods, however, all too soon the blood elf had reached her again. Ara fought with all her might and despite being on the verge of losing, she would not yield. My mother nor I know what crossed the blood elf¡¯s mind, but her refusing to yield filled him with lust. Upon disarming Ara, the blood elf forced himself upon her. But once he was finished the deed, he mercifully did not slay Ara and in a sign of an apology or who knows why, the blood elf told Ara his name, Novron Mirthvale, before he left.

    Once Ara, regained her strength, she returned to the village to find it in ruins with no survivors except those that had fled into the woods. Not until on the morrow did the clan head, Calder, and the clansmen return. The clan head and the men were furious at the destruction of the village, but they knew that they were no match and all they could do was rebuild and prepare for the harsh winter to come.

    Perhaps, out of fear or embarrassment, but Ara did not tell her father, Calder, what had befallen her in the woods until she became large with child. Calder demanded his daughter rid herself of the child in her womb, but Ara refused and stated that if she did so, she might never bear a child again.

    And so, in the third day of the fifth month of year 1496, I was born. Grandfather Calder, wished to kill me at birth, but mother prevented him. Ara firmly told grandfather, that she would raise her child even if his appearance was that of an elf and that did my appearance did not matter as I an ogre too, just like them.

    I am truly gratefully to my mother who loved me with all her heart. Mother did not care that my appearance resembled that of an elf more than an ogre. But I am frankly glad to say, that I did not take to that elf completely either for that blood elf possessed, golden eyes, pale blonde hair and golden skin. I am quite grateful that in that regard I completely took after mother,¡± Zarris paused for a moment, before seeming to gain his breath back.

    ¡°With the passing of time, grandfather and the rest of the clan grew to accept me as one of them. Grandfather taught me how to hunt, to battle with my fists, and to properly wield weapons. Mother on the other hand taught me how to control my water and ice magic. And though she did not know if I would inherit any abilities from my sire, neither of us cared. We were happy and that was all that mattered,¡± Zarris pauses once more as if seeming to gather strength, before continuing, ¡°As time went one, we realized that I aged much slower than Ogre almost at the same rate as a human. Mother believed that once I became an adult I would cease to age and remain youthful much like the elves and which time has proven true as I have never aged a day past twenty.¡±

    Zarris paused as he closes his eyes as if closing his eyes from the horrors of the past. ¡°One day, during my tenth year, they came-. Once more adventures had returned to the village and attacked. The village women and children ran into the woods and mother urged me to run, but I snuck back to join the fight.

    I don¡¯t know when or how, but I became entangled with a Fire Mage. I was naught but a child in their first battle and I froze. Mother-, Mother threw herself before me to shield me as her flesh was burned away. Unable to scream or react, I was filled with such a killing rage that something inside of me awoke. I only felt my gaze turn red as I felt the blood in me leave my body and turn into a weapon. Right then and there, I sought my revenge and slew the Fire Mage, before continuing onto massacre more adventurers.

    Finally, I was brought down by my sheer experience and weak control over my blood magic. The adventurer¡¯s at spotting my fine features choose to recuperate their loss by selling me rather than killing me. On the route to the slave market, I attempted to escape many times, but the chains that held me nullified my abilities. And the rest of the story you already know, I was bought and sold to Madam Norialise,¡± Zarris quietly ended his tale.

    Wren wipes the tears from her face and hugs her father vowing to free her father and restore the clan! Zarris smiles sadly as he hugs his daughter back hoping that she will never know the pain of loss of loved ones, that she may wax strong, and protect all that she holds dear to her heart.

    After a while, Wren curiously asks, "Father, will I too stop aging once I become an adult?"

    "Probably, we can¡¯t be certain yet, now can we?¡± Zarris said with a teasing smile as his mind knew that such a blessing was a curse in his current forced profession.

    "Father, will I have a blood ability once I become older?" Wren hopefully asked as she imagines turning her enemy into pieces by using her blood.

    Zarris gently pats his daughter on the head. "Maybe, but we don¡¯t know, what you will inherit from your vampirism side either," Zarris mused. ¡°However, you already know you have ogre strength and the ease to learn magic and will one day be a powerful magician. Whether you inherit the blood elf ability or not, I do not believe it will matter in the long run.¡± Wren nods in understanding such an ability would be useful, but not necessary. However, if she had the chance to inherit such an ability, it would certainly make life easier for her and her father for the future.

    Zarris gently release Wren from the hug and reaches into the pouch to pull out the map. "Here, this is a map of all the back roads of the continent of Astria. Our location lays here in the middle and over and across the Tessa Mountains through the Valpe plain lays our home. Study the map as much as you can, " Zarris sternly ordered.

    Wren studies the map for an hour as Zarris reads a book. After an hour, Zarris returns the map back into the pouch as Zarris explains, "I will bring it out again another day for you to study in case should anything happen."

    Wren puzzlingly stares at her father as Zarris softly says, "I have been planning to escape since before you were born. I almost have everything we need to escape with the only item left to deal with is to remove the magical contract that is upon me."

    Wren stands up straight at his words and whispers back, "Father is anyone else going to escape with us?" If that''s the case, she wishes that Lumi or Scarlett to come with them. Out of all the girls at the house, they were the closest she was too.

    Zarris shakes his head, "No Wren. I don''t have the means for that and a larger group would be easier to track." Of course, he would have loved too free all the girls. But to do so, Zarris would have to literally kill his way out of the house. Even if he killed the Madam as a murderer, he would be sentenced to prison and who knows what would happen to his daughter.

    Wren sadly nods her head in understanding making Zarris pull his daughter into his arms and rest his chin on her head. "I too wish we could save the girls," Zarris truthfully said, before pausing to say, ¡°But we still can return to buy them once we establish our clan.¡±

    Wren eyes shine in adoration, "You promise?" Wren solemnly asked her father.

    "I promise that we will come back for the girls," Zarris promised his daughter as his expression turns seriously. "Wren, you cannot speak of this to anyone,¡± Zarris sternly ordered.

    Wren firmly answers, "I won¡¯t, I will obey perfectly your orders.¡± In her heart, Wren vows to herself to become strong enough to help her father and not become a burden.

    Zarris smirks and mischievously says, "Perfectly?" Zarris impishly smiles as he evilly eyes Wren and rubs his hands together in a sinister fashion.

    "Not that perfect, but really well," Wren wryly replied as she eyes her father and shudders at all the mischief that response could get her. Her father was a good man, but he really did have a mischievous streak.

    Zarris reaches over and tousles Wren¡¯s hair affectionately. "You''ve had an exciting day, now it''s time for bed," Zarris ordered. Wren sighs out loud but does as she is told. After some tossing and turning, Wren curls up in a corner of the bed and is soon sound asleep. Zarris silently watches the peaceful face of his daughter reflected in the moonlight, before protectively resting next to her as he slumbers away in worry.

    -3<sup>rd</sup> day of 8<sup>th</sup> moth of 1519

    In the capital of Micaellis, there was great rejoice and preparations throughout the kingdom as the third prince of the kingdom was to be wed in ten days to the second daughter of Duke Morgan Dalvair. At the pleasure house of Madam Norialise, preparations were being made as well. The masquerade had been a smashing success of epic portions. The Madam had gained a wide variety of new clientele from wealthy merchants to refined nobleman. And due to the wedding festivities, that were to be held, there were to be many guests in the city searching for companionship and pleasure this would be a very lucrative event for the Madam.

    Madam Norialise stood patiently waiting in the reception hall having summed all the ladies and gentlemen in the house. At seeing the them all gathered, the Madam claps her hands to garnish their attention. "Everyone, I want you to flaunt yourself in these upcoming festivity days. If you do well, there may be a possibility for you keep half of the coins you earn," she happily said.

    All the ladies and gentlemen bow to the Madam showing their understanding. For if a lady or gentlemen can earn enough money for a Madam, there is a possibility that they may be able to buy their freedom and still have enough still to restart a life anew. Such an offer is very tempting for all the ladies and gentlemen of the Norialise household.

    The ladies and gentlemen return to their dwellings the Madame calls out, one who no one else would dare to cross. "Zarris, allow me to entertain you in my parlor," she purposefully said as she sashays to her parlor room. Zarris frowns in unease, but unwillingly follows the Madam to her parlor. Nothing good can come of visiting with the Madam.

    The Madam seats herself and pours tea into fine teacups. "Please seat yourself Zarris," she sweetly said as she hopes that the troublesome elf will for once listen to her.

    Zarris lips tighten in a grimace as he cautiously seats himself across from the Madam. The Madam attempting to show him kindness is never a very good sign of what is to come. The only times, she would ever show such kindness to him was when she wanted something from him.

    "Would you like one scoop of sugar or two in your tea?" The Madam warmly asked him.

    Zarris stares at her for the unusual warm tone as he flatly says, "Two please." His inner guts clench as he remembers that sickly sweet voice. It was the say voice used when she wanted something out of him. The last time was when a wealthy earl desired to bed him. Zarris had repeatedly refused and made it very clear that he would kill him so if he was forced too.

    The Madam hands Zarris the teacup, before taking a sip from her own. Upon noticing Zarris not drinking his tea, she sweetly asks, ¡°Is it not to your liking? If not, I can certainly have something else prepared for you.¡±

    Wishing to end this farce as soon as possible, Zarris places the teacup onto the parlor table. "Why have you summoned me, Madame? It certainly is not out of the kindness of your heart," Zarris flatly inquired.

    The Madam chuckles gently, "There is no need to be so suspicious, I merely wished to discuss a business proposal with you." Silence stretches across the room as Zarris does not reply back. The Madam calmly puts down her teacup onto the parlor table. "How is your daughter? If I''m not mistaken, she is already eight years old is she not?" The Madam mused out loud.

    Zarris''s entire body stiffens at the question. "I apologize if Wren has done anything wrong, Madam. I will immediately correct her actions; I can assure you." Zarris firmly said as he apologetically bows to the Madam. Zarris heart clenches for nothing good can come from her interest in his daughter.

    The Madam waves her hands in the air as if dismissing the very thought. "No, no, she hasn''t done anything wrong. She is quite the lovely child,¡± The Madam honestly said as she pauses in middle of her speech, before continuing, ¡°The more I see the both of you, the more I can''t help but see a female miniature version of you. It''s uncanny when one thinks about it.¡±

    Zarris raises his eyes to meet those of the Madam''s. "Madam, enough roundabouts, what is it that you desire?" Zarris unhappily growled as sickly fear steadily crept into his heart as he followed the line of reasoning.

    "This is a pleasure house, Zarris, this is no place for a child. However, that being said, she is already quite lovely and will without a doubt be a great beauty once she becomes a woman. Wren is just at the right age to begin an early courtesan training and I am sure she will be well worth the effort and training. I have already received an offer for her upon her completion of her courtesan training. I would be more than willing to give you half of her purchase price for her first time. Which would allow you to buy your freedom and permit you to start your life anew," The Madam coolly proposed.

    The Madam eagerly waits for in anticipation for the half-elf to respond in agreement. She knew just how much he valued his freedom and given this chance she was sure he wouldn''t miss such a rare opportunity. She was risking everything by allowing him his freedom. In short terms, she may suffer a loss, but no doubt she would gain triple that amount for the girl.

    The Madam fondly recalls the first time she saw him. In those day, her pleasure house was still only a low-level brothel having been opened with her own money after buying her own freedom from the pleasure house that owned her. That day, she had been in the slave market looking for cheap suitable slaves, when a filthy creature caught the corner of her eye. Upon closer observation, the Madam saw a young half-elf in a cage glaring at the passerby''s. And what truly amazed her was even though he was covered in filth, his hair was beautifully and rather neatly braided.

    The half-elf coldly glanced at her with dark eyes seemed to draw one in against one''s will. At that exact moment, the Madam knew she had found a diamond in the rough. Hiding her excitement, she approached the slave merchant and inquired the price for the half-elf.

    The slave merchant explained that for over a year any approaching perspective buyer, who wanted to inspect the half-elf closely would be attacked or spit on by the slave. The slave merchant having been trying to sell him for over a year was more than glad to rid himself of the half-elf. And to the Madam¡¯s great delight, the half-elf slave price was dropped down to only five pieces of gold. Without hesitation, she paid the slave merchant on the spot for the half-elf.

    After her purchase, the slave merchant recommended that she also buy a high crest slave, though expensive would allow her to control the unruly half-elf. The Madam almost hesitated at the cost, but willingly paid for the crest if the crest if it would allow her to control unruly half-elf. Such a valuable interest could not be allowed to run away.

    The slave merchant attempted to place the slave crest on the half-elf''s chest, but she immediately stopped him. She carefully explained to the slaver merchant that placing the magic crest in such a place would lessen the half-elf¡¯s value. The slave merchant instead placed the crest on the wrist of the half-elf.

    With glee, the Madam proudly ordered her new slave to follow as her new slave spit into the slave merchants face as they left. The slave merchant raised a hand to her slave, but she coldly informed him, that if he damaged her slave that he would have to pay for compensation. The slave merchant wordlessly turned away and briskly returned to his tent. But she did not miss the bloodthirsty smile on her slave¡¯s face at the sight. But to her surprise the half-elf meekly followed her back to her pleasure house.

    Upon arrival, the Madam had him cleaned and thoroughly washed. And even though maids had wanted to cut his beautiful long hair, since it was flea-ridden, she had absolutely refused their suggestion and ordered them to use an expensive potion that completely removed fleas. Her actions were not out of kindness, but rather to increases the product¡¯s value. Male slaves with such lovely long hair were rare among the circle of pleasure houses. But, when found, they were highly prized above all other male slaves for many male and female clientele enjoyed such features in their beloved and were more than willing to pay all the more to enjoy the company of such a pleasure slave.

    When the maids present the half-elf to her, the Madam¡¯s eyes widened in amazement and joy at the half-elf. He was utterly breathtaking and pleasing to the eye causing her to be overjoyed knowing that the slave would bring her immense wealth. After that, she sat the slave in the parlor and inquired his name and age.

    The half-elf had coldly responded, that he was eleven years of age and that his name was Zarris. The Madam carefully explained to the half-elf what his new position would be, but that he would he treated well for his value.

    The half-elf had nodded in understanding as she sternly explained he would not refuse clienteles demands unless the clientele demands could damage him in any manner. At seeing a lack of reaction on his part and against the better judgment of herself, the Madam asked the slave, what was wrong?

    The slave coldly answered, that he was a slave. However, he knew he could not escape and therefore was willing to make the best of such an arrangement. The half elf proposed, that he would become her highest earner but in exchange she would allow some freedom in his choices.

    Seeing such a willing product, the Madam asked, what such choices entailed? The half elf explained, that he would never take any male clientele and that he be permitted to gain an education as those were his only conditions.

    The Madam was surprised at the half-elf¡¯s request, but such requests were within reason and be easily to fulfill. The Madam agreed to both requests and carefully explained that any further education requested would be paid with his own coin. Without hesitation, the half-elf readily agreed to her own conditions.

    Without a second to spare, the Madam assigned the half-elf to one of her best slaves to be trained under. To her great delight within a fortnight, the half-elf was constantly being sought out by high paying clientele. After that, she was not able to keep up with his high flow of clientele. And so, in that manner she was able to afford high end slaves and was able to move into a medium, high class pleasure house. And even after all these years, none of the Madam¡¯s slaves had ever matched him in terms of value. And though, the half-elf no longer had many clienteles due to his exclusivity, women were still willing to pay fortunes for just a single night with him. The Madam stirs her tea dreamily at the happy past memories, before returning to the present.

    Zarris digs his fingers into his palms until they start to bleed to keep his voice even. "I thank you for your concern and for the kind offer Madam. However, my child has great talent for the magic arts and I have my heart set on sending her to a magic institution," Zarris coolly said even though his heart raged with fury. How dare this filthy woman look upon his child and think to take her away?! He would see the Madam dead, before she placed a single finger upon his daughter!

    All traces of civility disappear from the Madam''s face. "However, if it is as you say I am sure all will be well. I would be careful if I were you to ensure that your child is not stolen. You are dismissed," the Madam curtly said as she angrily stirs her cup. That foolish half-elf! She was sure she could convince the troublesome half-elf with the promise of his freedom. What a wasted opportunity, she lamented in the depths of her heart.

    Zane carefully makes sure to politely bow to the Madam, before quickly exiting her parlor. Zarris hastily heads to his room and locks the door behind as he enters his chambers. At his actions, Wren raises her head from the magic book she was studying. "What is wrong father?" She curiously asks as Zarris drags her into his arms. "Father, I can''t breathe!" Wren rather muffled said as she notices that her father is slightly trembling as he tightly clutches her in his arms.

    Zarris loosens his grip on his daughter as he lovingly looks down at her. He bends down and kisses her on her forehead. With worry evident in her eyes, Wren questioningly says, "Father?"

    How can he bare to tell his child, that today the Madam offered to make her into a pleasure slave and threatened to take her away from him? Zarris composes himself and lies to Wren, "It is nothing. I just have missed your precious face, that''s all."

    Wren raises her eyebrows not looking too convinced, but nods at his words. "Wren, have you been studying the map?" Zarris hurriedly.

    "I have father. I almost have everything memorized except for the roads closest to the sea ports,¡± Wren assuredly said as she thinks to herself, ¡°It¡¯s not like, we''re going to travel to a sea port.¡±

    "Why are you asking father?" Wren asked as Zarris leans down and whispers conspiringly into her ears, "Because we will leave in ten days."

    Wren drops the book she held, "What! Really?" Wren yelled. Soon, she and her father will leave this terrible place. As well as finally being able to see her father''s and their clan''s homeland.

    Zarris sits down onto the bed with his fingers crossed in front of him. "Yes, it''s the perfect time to escape, since the city will be full of guests for the wedding. The house will be full of men and no woman will have the audacity to ask for companionship at this time. I will be perfectly free and not be needed to entertain any guests."

    How he dearly wished he did not need to ask anything of her, but needs must be met. Zarris hesitates before he speaks, "Wren, I found out where the magical contracts are being held. I am too conspicuous to enter the parlor, but you should be able to sneak in and steal my contract. But there is still a chance of discovery and if that happens, the consequences will be severe for the both of us." He images, what would happen if they were caught? The least of his worries would be being caught, but instead what would happen to his daughter afterwards.

    Wren responds, "We just have to hope for the best father." She gently pats her father''s hand, noticing his worried expression. ¡°I won¡¯t fail,¡± Wren whispered to herself in her heart.

    Zarris nods at her words as he squeezes her hand gently in reply. He quickly pulls out the secret map and beings planning and pointing out their route into the Tessa Mountains as well as the route over the mountains to their final destination as they also discuss what they will need to prepare and finish making any adjustments to their plans.

 *Chapter 3 - Plan

    -13<sup>th</sup> day of the 8<sup>th</sup> month of 1519

    In the capital of Micaellis, there was great rejoice and festivities throughout the kingdom as the third prince of the kingdom was wed to Adrianna, the second daughter of Duke Morgan Dalvair. At the pleasure house of Madam Norialise, the house is bursting at its seams from all of the wealthy clientele. The men laugh and toast the newlywed couple, while enjoying the provide and take advantage of the companionship being provided.

    Away from the festivities on the second floor, Zarris finishes packing their two small travel bags. Zarris places the travel bags under the bed to hide in case of an unexpected visitor, while his daughter docilely sits on the bed clutching her pendant in her hands. Zarris gently reaches and takes hold of one of her hands and clutches her small hand tightly in his. They sit in silence, neither daring to break, what may be their final moments together.

    The rambunctious voices and laughter drifting from the guests below are in full swing. Wren quivers slightly as she raises her eyes to meet her father''s anxious own. Wren trembling says, "It''s now or never father. I can do this."

    Zarris pulls her into his arms and holds her as tightly as possible as he remembers the small child, who hid in his arms at her first thunder storm. The twitch of a smile appears on his face as he recalls the time when Wren ate an entire week¡¯s supply of sweets by herself and he found her fearfully hiding under the bed. At that time, he had so easily protected her and taken the blame, but now she would be one protecting him, and no child should have to take on such a burden.

    Zarris reluctantly releases Wren from his grasp as his voice quivers for a second, "The magical contracts are in the hidden drawer in the wooden desk. Turn the knob of the first drawer, three times to your right. Then turn the second knob on the third drawer, five times to your left. The hidden drawer will be released and quickly search for my magical contract. Once you have found my contract return the contracts back the drawer and return as quickly as possible to me."

    Wren repeats the instructions back to her intent father as she planned for the worse or any upsets. "Father, when I open the drawer is there a possibility of a trap being triggered?" She tentatively asked.

    Zarris shakes his head. "Madam Norialise has never placed any traps on her drawer, except for those that are for slaves. If I tried to open the drawer, a spell would immediately be triggered disabling me. However, since you are not a slave, there will be no trigger. And as a magical registered contract owner if the Madam''s contracts are stolen, she can quickly file a claim with the merchant''s association as they are very efficient at finding the thieves and punishing them," he said.

    Wren nervously fiddles with her pendant and hesitantly stares at her father and asks, "Father is there a way for them to track us, once I have stolen the contract?" Wren knew if that was the case her father may need to abandon her and later return for her, if necessary. She was just preparing herself for the worst-case scenario.

    Zarris considers his answer carefully, before answering, "Once you return with the contract, I will destroy the contract and as long as we make it out of the city gates the merchant association cannot track us. But for as long we remain within the city, the merchant association can use their paper copy of the magical contract to find us." Zarris silently prays that his answer, has not frightened his daughter more than she already is.

    Wren nods her head in relieved acceptance and carefully hides her pendent. With her heat pounding Wren rises and stops at the door, "Wait for me father, I will return triumphant." Zarris helplessly sits on the bed as he watches his beloved daughter shut the door behind her. Zarris clenches his hands together and prays for her safe return for if anything ever happened to her, he would never forgive himself.

    Wren carefully treads down the hallway as blood rushes to her head and she finds it difficult to swallow. Wren reaches the grand staircase and peeks at the guests down below: some of the guests laugh drunkenly, while others hold ladies and gentlemen in their laps, and some watch the trainee girls and boys dance on a small stage.

    Wren pauses for a moment trying to think of a way downstairs without a rising suspicion as there is no easy way for her to pass unnoticed via the stairs. Wren could lie and say she was grabbing a meal from the kitchen but given the day¡¯s festivities any one of the girls concerned for her welfare would certainly accompany her there and back. Wren wrack¡¯s her brain for any idea as she scans below and spots the small hidden space behind a row of potted plants on the other side of the stair veranda.

    Wren privately congratulates herself for being a genius or simply insane, before taking a deep encouraging breath as she vaults over the staircase and into the small space behind the potted plants. Wren hears a crack as she lands on her feet and a small pained whimper escaped from her. ¡°Maybe, it wasn¡¯t such a good idea,¡± Wren thought to herself as she stretches her arms to keep her balance. With her ears pounding, Wren intently scans for any sign of anyone seeing her plunging descent.

    Unable to find anyone glancing in her direction, Wren sneaks from plotted plant to plotted plant until she reaches the next hallway. Wren pauses and glances for any approaching individuals, before dashing across to the unlocked parlor and swiftly closing the door behind her. It takes Wren a moment for her eyes to adjust in the dark as rushes towards the desk only to fial to notice the small foot rest on the floor. And with a loud painful crash Wren falls to the floor as she swears a few choice words at the foot rest and a few more that if her father knew would certainly him to smack her bottom.

    In pain, Wren clenches her teeth as she raises her head and listens for anyone coming to investigate the noise. After a few suspenseful moments, Wren thankfully does not hear any oncoming footsteps. Slowly sitting up, Wren returns the foot rest back to its upright position, before crawling forward to the desk and making sure not to bump into anything else.

    Upon reaching the desk drawer Wren comes to a kneeling halt as she reviews the instructions in her mind, before starting. Confident, Wren delicately turns the knob of the first drawer three times to the right, then the second knob on the third drawer five times to the left. In response, the hidden drawer pops open as Wren makes a small fist in success. Wren carefully reaches in and pulls out the magical contracts as she quickly skims over them searching for her father¡¯s contract. After what seemed like an eternity, Wren finally spots her father¡¯s name on the second to last magical contract. With tender care, Wren carefully folds his contract and places inside her shirt pocket.

    Finished, Wren straightens the magical contracts as fast as she can, before returning them to the hidden drawer and slamming the drawer shut. Wren silently makes her way to parlor door and is about to leave when the parlor door flies open. With her heart pounding, Wren holds her breath as she presses herself against the wall hoping that she hadn¡¯t been discovered.

    A drunken voice is heard saying, "Hick, is this your room toots?" The drunk guest lets out a loud burp, "Excuse me," he drunkenly said.

    A young courtesan wraps her arms around the drunk keeping him steady. "No sugar, this is the Madam''s parlor. Come this way, Sugar and I''ll treat you to a fine time," the young lady confidently said as she closed the door behind her and drags the drunkard back to the ongoing festivities.

    Wren lets out a soft sigh of relief as she waits for the voices to fade away before peeking through the doorway. Wren looks both ways and fails to see anyone approaching, before rushing out and closing the door behind her. Wren prematurely congratulates herself as she darts behind from potted plant to potted plant to reach the staircase. To her dread, Wren finds the staircase being blocked by a group of drunks.

    The drunks giggle to each other as they try to make their way upstairs with the aid of the courtesans. Wren bites her lips in frustration trying to figure out how to get past them, when all of a sudden, a familiar voice causes Wren to freeze. "Sweetheart, what are you doing hiding behind there?" The lovely voice drawled.

    Wren slowly turns toward the owner of the voice, Lumi, the lovely fairy is staring at her with her hands on her hips. Wren races as she thinks of an excuse and wryly grins in reply. "Father told me not come downstairs today, but I wanted to take a peek," Wren guiltily lied.

    Lumi smirks and conspiratorially says, "Heh, what your father doesn''t know can''t possibly hurt him your secret is safe with me." Wren sighs in relief at Lumi believing her lie. Thankfully the person who found her is Lumi.

    Lumi turns to face the drunks and says, "Now, you lout of drunks move out of the way, you''re being a nuisance to everyone!" The drunks drunkenly comply with her request and move out of the way.

    Wren gratefully smiles at Lumi as Lumi gives her wink, before returning to the party. Wren practically flies up the stairs towards her father''s bedroom and slams the door shut behind her causing her father to visibly flinch at the noise as she happily skips forward and hands her father his magic slave contract.

    His fervent prayers having been answered with his daughter¡¯s safe return, Zarris picks Wren up and twirls her once throughout the room, before putting her back down. A silly lopsided grin appears on his face as Zarris proudly says, "You did it! I was so worried." However, soon enough the joy fades as he recalled their present situation and hurriedly says ¡°Get the bags ready while I destroy the contract."

    Zarris eagerly places the contract on the floor and begins chanting to destroy the contract, while Wren does as she is told. Zarris¡¯s heart pounds as he waits anxiously for the contract to be destroyed until finally the contract disappears in a puff of smoke. Wren excitedly smiles as she watches the contract disappear in a cloud of smoke. Wanting to cough at the smog, Wren tearfully hands her father his bag as the unlocked door creeps open.

    "Is something wrong? I smelled smoke and I came to check how everything-," Scarlett stops speaking upon noticing the bags in their hands. Understanding and fear flashes in the depths of her eyes. "Are you trying to escape Zarris? Are you mad? Don''t you know what will happen to you?" Scarlet frantically said as fear of the past flashed in her eyes. Once, she had so foolishly believed she could escape and in the end all she got was her mother turning her in for the reward. And now, she wasn¡¯t even a person merely an object of pleasure for others.

    Scarlett anxiously says, ¡°And what the Madam will do to Wren is even worse! She may even take her way from you, Zarris and sell her to another pleasure house!"

    Zarris slowly approaches Scarlett with his hands in front of him and says, "Scarlett, the Madam, has already asked for Wren. I cannot allow my fate to befall her. Please Scarlett, don''t push me."

    Zarris glances at his daughter¡¯s face, who eyes are full of distress as she clutches her travel bag to her chest, so tightly that her hands are white. Never in his wildest dream did he consider that he would be capable of hurting Scarlett, who was like a sister to him. But to his great surprise and horror, Zarris grimly found his heart at peace with the bleak thought, because for his child, he would and could commit any horrific sin. And in the nature of things, Zarris¡¯s grim thoughts clearly show on his face as a frosty mist seems to drift from his piercing, icy eyes.

    Scarlett hysterically yells, "Stay away! I''ll scream!" Zarris halts a short distance away from her as she sighs in relief with tears coming down her face. "I know you think this is for the best Zarris, but I''m sure you can buy your freedom soon. As for Wren, you''ll be able to send her far away to a magic institution, she will be safe there," Scarlett loudly said trying to convince herself of her own words. As Scarlett heard herself say those words, she knew there was no turning back. Even if Wren forgave her, she knew that Zarris would never. The sense of hopelessness and bitter loss filled her heart. Things would never be the same between them even if Zarris chose to stay.

    Zarris regretfully shakes his head and says, "You know that the Madam will never let me go, I am her highest earner. As for Wren, do you think the Madam will simply allow Wren to leave this place?

    Wren is just as fair as I am and there is little doubt in the Madam''s mind that once Wren is a woman she will be just as valuable as I am. Even if I send Wren to a magic institution, the Madam has already threatened me with arranging for thieves to kidnap Wren from the magic institution by force!¡±

    Scarlett trembling hesitates and for a moment her conflicted heart considers his words. However, the fear of being abandoned soon clouds her mind. Scarlett shakes her tearful face in denial and says, "You''re lying!" With tears of betrayal in her eyes, Scarlett sniffs, "I thought we were friends, but I guess not. Zarris put down your things and I won''t scream-." Scarlett stops mid-sentence as she falls over and a figure standing over her steps into the doorway.

    Zarris and Wren''s eyes widen upon recognition. "Hmph, stupid woman. Well, what are you all waiting for? Carry her to her room," Lumi demanded as she smacks the fan into her hand for emphasis. Annoyed, Lumi wonders if fear has addled their wits.

    Zarris mutely hands his bag to Wren and reaches for Scarlett''s limp body. Not trusting Lumi, one bit he unwillingly does as he is told. Wren follows closely behind them as Lumi walks in front of Zarris opening Scarlett''s bedroom door for Zarris to place Scarlett''s limp body.

    Lumi smirks and playfully says, "Heh, what would you have done without me?" Lumi expectantly waits for his tearful thanks. She can''t allow such a valuable opportunity to pass her by. Of course, once he does, she will mercilessly tease him.

    Zarris instinctively places himself between Lumi and Wren. "What is it that you want?" He coldly said.

    Lumi''s heart trembles for a moment in dread at his words. It quickly fades away as anger sweeps its way into her heart as she angrily thinks, ¡°Who does he think he is!? After I went out of my way to save you the least this ungrateful wretch could do is thank me!¡±

    Luni glares at Zarris and angrily hisses, "I''m trying to help you! No need to be so rude!" Lumi flutters her fan angrily as she struggles to calm herself. ¡°I knew something suspicious was going on when I saw Wren downstairs. That girl never shows herself to company if she can help it. What''s more, you would never allow her to sneak out of your room on a day like today''s," Lumi haughtily stated.

    Unable to comprehend her words, Zarris stares blankly at her for few moments. As he repeats the scene in his mind he slowly understands that Lumi wasn''t going to betray them and was trying to help them escape. Wordless thanks and joy fill his face as Zarris gratefully says, "Thank you, Lumi."

    Lumi beams in pleasure from his words and grins in superior triumph. "Heh, aren''t I your troublesome impish younger sister? Of course, I have to help, my big brother out!" Lumi proudly proclaimed. But just as swiftly Lumi¡¯s smile fades away at her following words, "Hurry and escape, while Scarlett is still unconscious. I presume that the most she will be unconscious for is half a candle¡¯s mark and that is she isn¡¯t check on.¡±

    Zarris quietly pulls Lumi into a hug. "Thank you for everything," Zarris truthfully said with tears in his eyes. For once in his life, a friend had finally not betrayed him.

    Wren scurries over and quickly hugs Lumi in relief as well. Her stomach had been in knots and in confusion over Scarlett¡¯s actions, but now the knot was gone. Wren softly promises in her heart to never forget Lumi and return for her one day.

    Lumi pushes them away, while wiping away her tears and crossly mutters, "Sniff, as if I need your thanks! It''s not as though I am going to miss your intolerable presence. Now hurry up and leave, you, big lug." Lumi quickly schools her features to not show her sadness and loneliness at their departure.

    Zarris takes the bag from Wren as Wren nervously asks, "Lumi, won''t you be in danger?"

    Lumi smirks and says, "Please Scarlett never saw me. All I have to do is to return to the party and none will be the wiser." Lumi turns to leave the room, but stops for a moment, glancing one last time at them. Lumi wordlessly stares at them, before turning on her heels and facing the door. "Don''t get caught and allow yourself to return to this place, no matter what happens!" Lumi harshly said, before haughtily striding out of the room.

    "Goodbye and thank you, Aunty Lumi," Wren softly called out to Lumi¡¯s vanishing figure.

    Zarris blinks the moisture away from his eyes as he calmed himself, before prying open Scarlett''s window. Glancing down at the drunk crowd Zarris studies the crowd for a moment, before leaping out of window and performing somersault mid-air to land upright on his feet. Zarris motions to Wren to jump as Wren nervously eyes her father¡¯s outstretched arms, before leaping faithfully into his arms. With ease, Zarris catches Wren, before the two swiftly blend into the crowd never turning back to gaze at the dwelling that had been their home for so many years. Wren tightly grips her father''s hand in excitement as they start on their long-awaited journey and her father squeezes her hand in reply.

    Zarris and Wren traverse the city on foot as quickly as possible, but due to festivities it would be impossible to hire a coach to make its way through the city. The streets are crammed with ongoing festivals and carousing crowds. Some streets are so congested that it is simply impossible to move through the street. Several times, Wren and Zarris are even forced to backtrack and take another road due to the traffic not to mention the other road blocks such as angry drunks and the legion of pick pockets on the streets, before once more continuing towards the east city gates.

    After a candle mark, Wren begins to slow down causing Zarris to worriedly ask, "What is the matter Wren? Are you already tired? We''re almost there."

    Wren had done her best to not be a burden, but her wane face betrayed her. ¡°I hurt my leg that¡¯s all,¡± Wren hesitantly stammered.

    Zarris pulls Wren to the side of the road and bends down to look at her leg. Gently Zarris removes her boot and sock to reveal Wren¡¯s left foot is violently bruised and swollen. Zarris stares at his daughter in amazement at her bravery in suffering in silence this entire time. Pride and self-loathing filled Zarris gaze as he feels like a useless father. With gentle fingers, Zarris puts her sock and boot back on, before moving his bag to his chest and bending down.

    Wren almost cries in frustration at the kneeling figure of her father on the dirty cobblestones. Wren digs her nails into her hands and stubbornly says, "No, father, I can still walk until we make it out of the city."

    Zarris gently smiles at Wren and says, "You are more than worth it. Now stop complaining and do as you''re told." Zarris sternly glared at Wren to get his point across.

    Wren wryly grins at her father''s words as she moves her small travel bag to her back and reluctantly climbs onto her father''s back. Zarris swiftly straightens up and traverses the crowd as Wren tiredly rest her head on her father¡¯s broad, warm back in comfort. Zarris on the other hand steadfastly moves through the streets as his heart is full of confliction emotions of self-guilt in failing to protect his daughter. A bitter smile appears on his face as he recalls the little girl who would beg for a piggy back ride, but the only thing he can do now is succeed.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.

    Meanwhile, at the pleasure house of Madam Norialise, the festivities are in full swing with nothing amiss. A patron of Scarlett upon noticing her absence inquiries about her missing presence. A servant is sent to check on her whereabouts only to return pale faced with grave news for the Madam.

    Despite the urgent situation the Madam calmly excuses herself from the festivities and speedily returned to her parlor room accompanied by the servant. The Madam hastily opens her secret drawer and reviews the Magical Contracts. Within seconds a missing contract is spotted causing the Madam to shriek for her guards. The guards arrive to only find the Madam fuming with rage, ¡°Find them alive! Now!¡±

    The guards rush away towards the merchant association to report the escaped slave as the Madam collapses into a chair in a fuming rage. ¡°How dare that ingrate dare escape after everything I have done for him!? Well no more of that! From now on he will bed males as well and as for his daughter-, she will be immediately be trained!¡±

    Once the Madam composed herself she returned to the festivities with the absolute certainty her slave would be returned. With a smile on her face, the Madam thanks Scarlett¡¯s patron for his keen eye and directs him to Scarlett¡¯s bed chambers in gratitude. With a flicker of her fan, the Madam returns to the festivities to guide the merriment atmosphere.

    Upon reaching the east city gates much to the surprise of Wren and worry of Zarris, there are no guests or citizens exiting the city only those late comers still arriving to participate in the grand festivities. Placing Wren onto the ground, Zarris worriedly asks, "Wren, do you think you can walk to the gates and past the guards?"

    Wren winces as she moves her foot, but firmly bites her lips and says, ¡°I can.¡±

    Zarris presses a kiss to his daughter¡¯s forehead, before taking her by the hand as his heart moves uneasily in his chest. His hand tightening around Wren¡¯s reveals his anxiety, but Wren does not distract her father with her own worry. They both new that with the ongoing festivities their exit was rather suspicious and especially given that they only carried two small travel bags and no sign of purchases in the city.

    Zarris bites his cheek as he studies the two guards at the city gate and hopes all will go well. The two of them stop at the City Guards Tollbooth to the surprise of the guards at the late hour departure. A great burly guard asks, "Where are ye going in such a hurry that you''re departing during such a glorious festivity?"

    Zarris rapidly thinks of a plausible response and schools his features into that of a pleasant smile. "Why good sirs, my dearest daughter here begged to come see the wedding. And I could not very well bring myself to deny her request. However, before we left home, we promised her mother that we would return home as soon as possible. I must admit that the time got away from me," Zarris sheepishly replied.

    The thin faced guard frowns at Zarris reply, unsatisfied at the casual response. Still disbelieving him, the guard asks, "Before ye arrived, I saw thee carrying your daughter from afar. If she is hurt, then why not leave on the morrow?

    Zarris lovingly tousles Wren''s hair. "This little mite was complaining that her feet hurt, and I decided to carry her a while, isn''t that right my little princess?" Zarris said giving Wren a playful wink.

    Wren winks back at her father, before shyly smiling from behind her father at the guards. and replies in awe, "Yes, sir. The princess was just as beautiful as I imagined,¡± Wren said in awe. ¡°But now, I¡¯m tired and would like to go home.¡±

    The guards smile at her response and thusly satisfied nothing is amiss the guards wave them through the checkpoint. Wren and Zarris, thanked the guards for their concern, before calming going on their way. But just as they reach the bridge a loud yell says, ¡°Halt!¡±

    Zarris and Wren stiffen in worry as Zarris prepares to run. The burly guard chases after them and yells again, "Wait, right there." As they wait for the guard to reach them their hearts beat in their mouths. The burly guard finally reaches them and cheerfully hands a small brown bag to Zarris. Zarris tentatively takes and opens the bag to find sweets inside.

    The burly guard lightly pats Wren''s head and sheepishly says, "I have a wee boy, her age. Children are always hungry. I''m sure such a wee lass will enjoy eating some sweets on the road." The burly guard ruefully grins at them as he scratches the back of his head in embarrassment.

    Relieved at the guard¡¯s explanation Zarris and Wren beam at the guard in thanks. "Thank you for your kindness, sir. Not many would have the courage nor the benevolence to do so,¡± Zarris honestly said. Red-faced in embarrassment, the burly guard beams back at them, before jogging back to his post.

    Zarris reaches into the bag and hands Wren a sweet and takes one for himself. Wren happily savors the soft round sweet that tastes of milk and honey. The two share the sweets until they are gone as they make their way across the drawing bridge and out of the view of the guards. Only then, does Zarris once more kneel on the dusty road as Wren climbs onto his back. "Hold on tightly," Zarris gently whispers to Wren, before setting off at a run on the moonlit road.

    Several minutes after Zarris and Wren''s departure, a large group of fifty adventures arrives from a C-class mission. The two guards inspect the adventurer¡¯s identification tags, before having them pay their toll. While the adventurer party group chats with the guards about the latest news and gossip, a messenger arrives from the merchant''s association.

    The thin faced guard reads out loud the merchant''s association message. "200 Gold pieces for the live capture of a half-elf slave.¡± Accompanying the message is a portrait of the escaped slave which causes the guards to let out cries of astonishment in recognition of the distinct face.

    The thin faced guard excitedly says, "The escaped half-elf just passed through. Are you adventurers interested in a D-ranked mission?" The guard gleefully hopes that the adventures accept his request as he would receive part of the commission if the half-elf was caught. The guard eagerly rubs his hands together as he expectantly waits for their response.

    The adventurers swiftly discuss among themselves and immediately agree that it will be an easy mission to complete. The adventurer party leader takes the wanted poster from the thin faced guard as the adventurers mount their steeds. In a cloud of dust, the group sets off down the road all eager to earn easy money.

    The burly guard glares at his partner causing the thin faced guard to gaze back in confusion. The burly guard bruskly snarls, "You, greedy git! He had his child with him!"

    The thin-faced guard stumbles back at the ferocity of his partner. The thin face guard trembles fearfully in the face of his partner¡¯s anger as his partner is known for harsh temper and lack of patience with fools. The thin-faced guard stammered back a reply, "What does it matter, he¡¯s a slave?"

    The burly guard smacks the thin-faced guard on the head, "You ignorant twit, what do you think will happen to the child once he is captured? Will you take responsibility for that child''s life?"

    The burly guard smacks the thin faced guard again on the head and roars, "It''s obvious that his child is not a slave and for the amount being offered for him, he must belong to a wealthy noble house or be an expensive pleasure slave!" The burly guard pauses for a moment before gathering his breath to bellow at full strength, "The only reason a highly valued slave like that would escape is for love or hatred. No doubt he wants to keep his child from repeating his fate and out of the greedy hands of a noble or brothel owner, you scatter-brained twit!"

    The burly guard throw his hands fed up in the air at seeing the blank expression on the thin-faced guards face. "We cannot aid and abide an escaped slave, but did ye need to show such cold hardheartedness at their plight? Are ye that hungry for gold that ye are willing to throw away your honor and pride as a man?" The burly guard growled.

    The thin-faced guard opens and closes his mouth but is unable to think of reply. The burly guard sneers at the lack of response and crossly turns away from his partner. Ignoring the idiot beside him, the burly guard gazes into night sky and mutters a sincere prayer of protect for the father and child escapees.

    The wind runs through Wren¡¯s hair as she enjoys the beautiful moonlit scenery and imagines the new life her and her father would have. With the Thorpe River in sight the sound of hooves can be heard in the distance behind them. Wren¡¯s arms tightened around Zarris neck as she hides her face in his neck and breathes the comforting lemon scent of her father.

    Zarris''s heart drops as he desperately hopes that his worst fears aren¡¯t coming true and that it is merely a group of travelers in passing. Still, Zarris sprints towards the Thorpe River at full speed in his heart, that it''s not his worst fears coming true. Panting, Zarris can only hope for the best as he rushes forward, but from the woods behind them a riding group of adventurers emerges causing Zarris heart to sink.

    A soft sound passes over Zarris as wall of earth suddenly rises before him to block his path. Without hesitation, Zarris nimbly darts around the block of earth and continues towards the bridge. With some relief, Zarris reaches the bridge to only see a shadow pass overhead and the figure of a fairy in gleaming chainmail appear at the exit with sword in hand.

    Hearing a whizzing sound, Zarris throws himself to the side as fireballs explode onto the bridge causing the bridge to tremble under the fiery barrage. Wren let¡¯s out a soft groan as she tumbles from her father¡¯s back and Zarris instinctively puts himself between his child and the adventurer¡¯s. Without a word, Zarris tosses his travel to Wren as Wren painfully hobbles to her feet. "Stay behind me. It''ll be okay,¡± Zarris whispered to Wren. Wren clenches her teeth in frustration but nods trustingly at his words, her father won''t lose to these men.

    Hiding his anxiety from his daughter, Zarris composes his face and stretches his arms out in peace. "Excuse me kind sirs, what seems to be the problem? My daughter and I are on our way home,¡± Zarris calmly asked.

    The adventurer¡¯s chortle in laughter with their leader snorting at the ridiculous statement. "We already know you''re an escaped slave," the leader cruelly said as he pulls a wanted poster from his side saddle bag and unrolls it to proudly show the face there on, that of Zarris.

    Zarris¡¯s heart drops into his stomach at the leader''s sneering words but retains his poker face. "You''re certainly right, but did you ever wonder why I''m worth so much?" Zarris confidently countered causing the adventurer¡¯s group to gaze at each other in bewilderment.

    "I thought so. Well, I''m half-blood elf. Do you know what a blood-elf is capable of?" Zarris mockingly asked, while trying to portray absolute confidence in hopes of bluffing his way out of being captured.

    The fairy adventurer turns pale and immediately backs away causing the fairy¡¯s companions to turn their heads towards him in answer. " Out of the elves other than the High Elves, the Blood-elves are the most prideful and bloodthirsty of all the elven races. Much like the High Elves, the Blood Elves rarely breed with other¡¯s races out of their own with the exception being political marriages to the high elves and other elven tribes. However, there are two blood-elf bloodlines that have unique blood magic capabilities. The first bloodline can turn their blood into weapons and the second can cast powerful killing spells with their blood," the fairy trembling said as he forcefully recalled his childhood.

    When the fairy adventurer was a small child, his father a wealthy merchant had hired a blood-elf to safe-guard their cavern for the remainder of their trip. The hired blood-elf in question had been banished from his clan, but even still, the hired blood-elf was worth more than entire squad of elite grade mercenaries. Yet his father had not flinched at the extortionist price and had hired the blood-elf.

    On the road, time and time again the cavern was attacked by bandits and monsters. Yet each time, the blood-elf effortlessly slaughtered his way through to bath in the blood of his fallen enemies all the while laughing madly at the world. To this very day, the fairy adventurer still had nightmares of the blood-soaked figure laughing madly at him, before ripping his head off.

    The fairy adventurer returns to his sense as their leader scoffing says, "It¡¯s only a half-blood elf and the chances of him having any one of those particular blood lines is almost impossible. Come on, we can take him, this is after all a D-ranked mission.¡± Encouraged by their leader''s speech the group of adventurer¡¯s spreads out as the fire and earth mages ready their spells.

    Zarris sighs in frustration at the leader¡¯s untimely words. Zarris had almost convinced the adventurers to leave him and his daughter be. Anger appear in Zarris eyes as a dreadful bloodthirsty smile emerges on his face. If they wished for war so be it, let them all come, if they dared.

    A brawny swordsman charges toward Zarris and swings the blade down on Zarris, but Zarris easily catches the blade in-between his hands. Zarris sneers at the surprised swordsmen and says, "Did I mention, I''m also half-ogre?"

    Zarris seizes the sword from the stunned swordsmen and kicks the swordsmen away and sends him flying right into the chanting group of mages. Without hesitation, Zarris slices his hand open to call upon the blood magic which lain dormant all these years. Zarris¡¯s eyes immediately turn red causing the adventurers to instantly draw back in dread.

    Zarris seizing the opportunity darts forward and begins to counterattack. Wren grits her hands in frustration at her weak self and frantically thinks of a way to be of use. Doing all that she can, Wren casts a spell in her mind and waits for the right opportunity to release the charged spell.

    Dodging the blade of an adventurer, Zarris sizes the day and moves towards the group leader. A shrill sound is heard as Zarris throws himself to the ground as a clever ranger from the back nimbly fires arrows in a row. Annoyed, Zarris leaps to his feat and flings his blade at full strength. The blade madly whirls through the air and pierces through the ranger¡¯s chest as the ranger falls dead to the ground in disbelief.

    A female elf cleric lets out a cry and scurries to check on the fallen ranger. Ruthlessly Zarris sends a blood whip to drain the ranger¡¯s blood not before cleaving the healer¡¯s head from her neck. The more blood Zarris drains from his enemies the more blood whips he has to attack the surrounding warrior party.

    The party lets out cries of frustration and seeing an opening Wren casts a simple ice spell on the casting earth and fire mages to destroy their casting efforts by causing them to slip and fall. The mages let out cries of rage and hastily begin to recast anew as Wren once more readies another spell to keep them from casting.

    Hastily moving in Zarris twists his blood whips severing the neck arteries of six more warriors. The six warriors fall gurgling to the ground and before they can be healed by the cleric¡¯s Zarris has already drained their blood. The mages finally wizen up and ignore Wren¡¯s antics and begin to assault Zarris causing him to use up his blood with each attack in order to neutralize their attacks. Seeing Zarris to begin to falter the warriors renew their attack causing Zarris to lose ground. Soon sweat drips down his brow as he begins to breath heavily in exhaustion as Zarris tries to hold his ground.

    Wren does her best to impede the casting mages, but the clerics are hard at work healing the wounded. Wren dejectedly realizes at the current rate her father will lose. Wren bites her lips in concentration as her mind whirls at great speed trying to think of a plan. And just like that an idea comes to mind as she shouts, ¡°Father, the healers!¡±

    His daughter''s voice pierces through the battlefield like a ray of lighting as Zarris dashes forward and focuses all of his attacks onto the temporarily frozen stiff clerics. The warriors don¡¯t even have a chance to react when the clerics are already slaughtered and reabsorbed into Zarris¡¯s blood whips. The nearest warrior the group leader roars forward and attacks Zarris successfully slicing Zarris shoulder open.

    Zarris hisses in pain and throws himself back to dodge the leader''s next violent attack. The red-faced leader charges once more but is forcefully held back by his comrades. The mages had finally finished preparing their siege spell causing the warriors to swiftly withdraw back.

    Zarris eyes widen in understanding as he sees the mages begin to chant. Darting back to Wren, Zarris heart pounds in fear causing him to leap forward and wrap her in his arms. Instantly a blood bubble like shield covers them as a bombardment of earth meteors destroy parts of the bridge and surrounding area into oblivion.

    Wren worriedly peers up at her father¡¯s body that is covered in wounds of various lengths. Wren worriedly reaches into the travel bag for the healing potions and holds them out to her father. Zarris tiredly takes them and drinks them down in one gulp.

    The healing potions would not have much of an effect in his current state but would be enough to give him some renewed energy and stop the bleeding of the smaller wounds. Sadly enough, Zarris knew his body was weakening and soon he would possible bleed out. This was not a normal occurrence among blood elves, but Zarris was only half. And to make matters worse, his blood magic had only been used once. Had he been able to continuously to use his blood magic his body would have been conditioned to sustain the prolonged abuse.

    The siege spells finally exhaust themselves but to the adventurer¡¯s horror the half-elf still lived. The warriors reorganize themselves as they get ready to advance forward once more. But this time, they wouldn¡¯t underestimate their opponent.

    Wren frowns at seeing their movement and casts a ready spell. Ice appears under their feet causing the warriors to stumble forward with the unlucky ones falling to the ground. Wren smiles in triumph as the blood bubble disappears from around her and Zarris darts forward. The fallen warriors on the ground are dead meat and swiftly killed, before Zarris retreated.

    The group leader roars in maddened fury at the unruly slaughter. Unable to contain his anger any longer, the group leader rushes towards and attacks. Zarris dodges and the pattern continues until the leader slowly to gain his rhythm and begins to gain the upper hand. Zarris is slowly losing ground as he not only faces the group leaders¡¯ concise attacks but the attacks of the rest of the group.

    Zarris limbs being to feel heavy and as the nature of things begins to execute sloppy attacks. But as the battle continues, Zarris limbs becomes even more sluggish and the group leader takes full advantage of that to land several small strikes against Zarris. Feeling himself weaken, Zarris deems a mad option worthy as he was running out of time. Zarris turns his head slightly to side as his expression becomes pained at seeing his exhausted daughter in the distance doing her best to aid him against adult mages. Hardening his heart, Zarris purposefully allows a hole in his guard to appear.

    The group leader finally seeing the fruit born out of his hard labor speedily launches his blade forward. Not hesitating, Zarris does the same as ducks under and plunges a whip through his neck and instantly drains the leader¡¯s blood. Exhausted and unable to savor his victory, Zarris turns to face the remaining warriors.

    At seeing their leader''s dead body, the remaining warriors charge at the half-elf. The fairy adventurer who was hovering over the bridge in fear could only watch in horror as the scene of his childhood and nightmares were replayed. Closing his eyes, the fairy adventurer grimly swears to cleanse himself of his fear or die trying. The fairy adventurer bravely unsheathes, his short sword and lets out a brave battle cry. With a steady hand, the fairy adventurer plunges forward and stabs his blade from on high into the blood-elf¡¯s unguarded back. Amazed at his own success, the fairy adventurer plunges his blade further in.

    The fairy adventurer eagerly waits for his comrades to finish off the blood-elf. But before they can arrive the back of his hair stands on end as he feels a hot gaze staring daggers into his back. The fairy adventurer¡¯s gaze meets with that of the young female on the bridge. A bloodthirsty gaze fills her eyes as he suddenly finds he is unable to move.

    Wren let¡¯s out a cry of disbelief at seeing her father so cruelly attacked from behind. Angry tears creep in her eyes as she launches to ice spells to freeze the fairy¡¯s wings.

    The fairy adventurer eyes widen in horror at feeling his wings being encased in ice. Suddenly, the sword is ripped from his hands as the blood-elf dislodges himself. The fairy adventurer falls to the ground to only see a blood whip so cruelly engulf him just like in his dreams, before removing his head. The party which had started with 50 party members, now only had 25 remaining members. The warriors strategically retreat back to take a breath as the mages in fear feverishly attack the half-elf.

    Zarris exhaustedly casts a blood barrier to stop the barrage of attacks and somehow manages to drag his weary, torn body back to his daughter. Zarris tiredly leans against the bridge railing breathing heavily as he placidly studies the mages attack his blood barrier with a barrage of spells.

    Wren bites her lips at seeing the terrible wounds on her father''s body. Wren clenches her fists in anger wishing she could do something more for him and not be a burden at his side. Wren searches for more healing potions and hands them to her father, but this time around, Zarris refuses them. Unwilling, Wren puts them away as she anxiously glares up at him.

    Zarris tries to chuckle at the expression on Wren''s face, but instead gobs of blood cough out into his hand. Zarris subtlety wipes the blood away onto the back of his palm. At seeing Wren''s unconvinced expression, he tenderly tousles her hair. Zarris tiredly bends down and presses his lips to her forehead leaving behind a faint bloody kiss. Feeling the wetness on her forehead, Wren wrinkles her nose up at him as Zarris lovingly says, "You little rascal,¡± and gently wipes the kiss mark away with his thumb.

    "How I wish I could be there to see you grow,¡± Zarris bitterly said as he imagines his little girl turning into a strong woman. ¡°But I suppose there are some things that aren¡¯t just meant to be,¡± Zarris quietly said with a bitter sweet smile on his face.

    Wren''s heart freezes at her father¡¯s words and fervently protests, "No, father! We can still escape; we just need to jump into the river!"

    Zarris merely listens as he remembers the time Wren asked for his opinion on a gift and it was hideous beyond belief. Even then, he had been unable to lie her and now was no different. ¡°I¡¯ve used too much of my blood,¡± Zarris tragically said as he looks away into the distance. ¡°And now I am just too weak.¡±

    Wren stubbornly glares at her father and takes hold of his hands into hers. Yanking him down to her level, Wren glares at her father in the face as her father gapes at her strength. "Why are you giving up on me? You''re an Ogre! And Ogre''s are tough and never give up in the face of danger!" Wren roared at him.

    Zarris stares wordlessly into his daughter¡¯s fiery eyes as he is awe of her courage. "We promised to build the ogre clan together!" Wren stubbornly insisted. "Who do you think you are to tell me that I can''t stay with you? As ogres of the Frost Clan, we''d rather die than submit! If that''s the case, then we''ll die together as well!"

    Zarris is simply flabbergasted at his daughters¡¯ fiery words, for even after everything, Wren¡¯s faith in him is unshakable. Zarris heart bursts with love as he feels revitalized once more. However, that won''t be enough to save them. And so Zarris carefully memorizes every inch of his precious daughter''s face for the last time.

    Seeing a lack of response from her father fear creeps into Wren¡¯s eyes. But even so, Wren is more furious at the thought her father will tell her to flee. And if that stupid man did so, she wouldn¡¯t go, because he couldn¡¯t make her budge an inch without him!

    Wren impatiently pulls on her father''s arms waiting for a reply. A bright smile slowly stretches its way across her father''s face as he smiles at her. Wren happily grins back in response as Zarris pulls her into his arms and embraces her as tightly as possible. Wren happily finds herself nestled in her father''s wounded arms as her fears dissipate at his hug.

    Zarris gently whispers into Wren¡¯s ear, "As the last clan head, you are the last hope of our Frost Clan. You''ll need keep our promise, when I''m gone." Wren reacts too late as Zarris easily holds her struggling figure in his arms. With glistening eyes and a broken heart, Zarris peacefully lifts her struggling figure and says, "I will always be with you," and drops Wren into the swirling river down below.

    Wren desperately tries reach for her father to no avail as she plummets into the icy river below. Kicking towards the surface, Wren cries out, ¡°Father!¡± But soon the cold, twisting waters drag her further away as tries to keep afloat. Bobbing on the river through blurry eyes Wren is speedily tossed and pulled away by the river¡¯s current. The last sight in Wren¡¯s eyes as she disappears around the river bend is the sight of her father turning to face their pursers, before being dragged away.

 * Interlude â€“ An Adventurerâ€™s Report

    The sun is peeking over the horizon when the east gate city guards¡¯ glimpse seven adventurers riding swiftly towards them. All of the seven adventurers are heavily wounded with one of the injured calling out, "Please help! We need a healer!¡± As if in reply, two of the adventurer¡¯s slump against their horses and tumble unconscious to the ground.

    The two guards call out for urgent assistance as nearby city guards appear with the requested healers. The Captain of Guards appears at the east gate request to hear the reason for the adventurer¡¯s sorry state. The least wounded adventurer begins to recount the terrifying fight that took place.

    "Our fifty adventurer group members set off to capture an escaped half-elf slave. We successfully chased and trapped the blood elf at the bridge. We thought we could easily defeat him, but he used his blood abilities. Before we knew could weaken him enough to capture him half of our men were dead including our leader. And even then, rather than submitting to us he preferred to use a self-exploding technique, killing himself and eighteen of our group members instantly. We seven members are the only remaining survivors of our group," The adventurer wearily explained.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    At the ending of the adventures account, the Captain of the Guards sent forth messengers to the merchant''s association and to the former slave owner, before returning to his office to report. As the last of the adventures is carried away a burly city guard handing the toll both calls out, ¡°Wait!¡±

    The guards carrying the wounded adventurer halt as the burly city guard asks, ¡°What of the child?¡±

    The adventurer weakly answers, "The half-elf threw her into the river and the river carried her away.¡± Weakly falling back onto the stretcher, the city guards carry the adventurer away to the healing quarters.

    The burly gate city guard stares angrily at the ground and kicks the dirt. He gladly rotates shifts with the new guard at the new day''s start. As he heads home, he prays that the child may yet live. And with his wife and his children happily greeting him at the door as the burly guard puts the even behind him and firmly closes the door behind him.

    Upon receiving the message from the Captain of the City Guard, Madam Norialise faints in horror. Not only did the Madam lose two valuable commodities, but she must now pay compensation to the adventurer party for repercussions received. As for the rest of the city within a few days new gossip arose, and the commotion was largely forgotten by the inhabits of the city.

 *Chapter 4 - Journeys Start

    Wren drags herself out of the swirling icy waters onto the muddy river bank on her hands and knees as pebbles and sharp stones dig into her flesh. Out of the reach of the frigid waters, Wren finally collapses shivering onto the cold hard earth. Plenty of time passes by before she regains her strength and raises her gaze to her surroundings, failing to find any signs of civilization nearby.

    Wren numbly takes in the morning sights as the morning sun rises over the horizon. Wren closes her eyes as she sits up and allows the warm ray to bathe her face and body. A tear slowly drips down her face at the missing figure at her side. Wren¡¯s shoulders begin to shake as tears stream down her face as she silently weeps for her terrible loss.

    Wren anger and sorrow peaks and wildly shouts into the sky, ¡°You stupid, Ogre, you could have jumped into the river with me! I don¡¯t want to forgive you for dying on me, but I will because I am a magnanimous person. But you said, you would always be with me-.¡± Wren¡¯s voice breaks as she softly says, ¡°So you better keep watch over me or this time or I defiantly won¡¯t forgive you!¡±

    Wren hopefully stares into the sky looking for some impossible sign of being heard. And in reply a gentle like breeze tousles her hair in a very familiar manner, before fading away. Tears creep out of the corner out of her eyes as she bitterly mutters, ¡°Show off.¡±

    With the sun over the horizon Wren dries her tears as her stomach grumbles in hunger. Wren smiles sadly as she recalls her father¡¯s words, ¡°Even if you are angry or sad, you must always eat only then will you have the strength to act.¡± But most important of all, Wren had been so simple remined that she had promises to keep and only with strength would she be able to fulfill them.

    Unsteadily rising to her feet, Wren wrings her clothes dry before wiping her face clean with her still damp sleeve. Feeling somewhat refreshed Wren slaps herself away awake as she mutters to herself, ¡°Get yourself, together, Wren.¡± There was no more time left to mourn, she had to prioritize her survival over everything else.

    Miraculously, against all odds, Wren still has her and her father''s travel packs. Rummaging through her bag, Wren pulls out a small water canteen and slowly toddles over to the river. Wren curses out loud as she almost slips and falls on the wet rocks before finally reaching the river. After filling the canteen and fulfilling her thirst, Wren slowly limps her way back up the river bank onto the grassy over hill.

    Exhausted Wren tiredly reaches into the bags to check for any missing items and to her great delight the inside of both travel bags is soundly dry. Wren carefully removes a compass and map out of her father¡¯s bag to attempt to find her current location. After several minutes, Wren concludes as there aren¡¯t any nearby farms nor settlements, she must have been carried away at least twenty leagues, but no further than forty leagues as a large town lay at that distance.

    With care, Wren retraces the route chosen to reach the Tessa Mountain range. Her finger stops mid-way in unhappy realization that she is unable to take the previous route planned as large towns lay in vicinity of the route. And that was a problem as she was a young unaccompanied female child and even if no one has any ill intentions towards her, she would be seen as a suspicious traveler. But even more so, if Wren was to resupply in town she would surely be robbed if she pulled out her gold coins.

    Wren sighs in frustration at the unexpected complication. Pressing her lips together in a grimace, Wren searches for another route to take to the Tessa Mountains. Her brows furrow at finding a perfect route with little towns or villages on route through the Misty Woods. And though the Misty Woods are famous for being deadly to lonely travelers, Wren had no other choice as a long traveler this was the best and fastest option for her.

    Wren roughly calculates how far the entrance of the Misty Wood forest is and surprisingly finds she is roughly 30 leagues away. If Wren traveled from sun up to sun down, she should be able to reach the Misty Woods in a few days¡¯ time. Wren smiles at the first bit of good news that she''s had all day.

    Carefully refolding her map and returning to its place, Wren takes the compass from the grassy floor and confirms the direction needed to reach her destination, East. Certain of her direction, Wren rummages for dried jerky and contently munches on it. Wren enjoys the possibly last relaxation moment she will have for some time to come and enjoys the moment for all it¡¯s worth. The birds cheerfully sing their hearts out in the morning light as the grass stalks dance to an unseen morning breeze.

    All too soon, Wren mournfully eats the last morsel, before taking a sip of water to wash down the taste of the jerky. Letting out a soft burp, Wren wipes her mouth clean with the back of her hand. Had her father been here, he would surely frown and berate her for her lack of manners.

    Wren stiffens at the unexpected pain, but like a tooth ache the pain slowly dulls away as Wren busies herself. Fishing out two small green healing potions from her bag, Wren gulps them down one after another. Wren¡¯s face twists in revulsion at the taste and wonders if they¡¯re poisonous? Surprisingly, Wren doesn¡¯t fall dead to feet, but given the revolting taste maybe she should have.

    Returning the emption vials into the bag, Wren stretches as she rises to her feet. Her muscles let out a silent happy sound as Wren experientially places her right foot in front of her. The right foot is still a little sore, but now movable. Wren kicks her feet together in joy causing her foot to ache, but it was worth it.

    Glancing around, Wren spots a long pointed thin branch lays near her and takes the branch into her hands to use as a walking stick. Putting her bag on, Wren excitedly straightens up and steadfastly begins her journey. With her first step and the next, Wren soon disappears over the next hill. By the end of the day, Wren had traveled a bit further than she had thought. But it was all due to failing to meet any travelers on the winding road. Seeing the day come to an end, Wren exits the road in the gloomy darkness and searches for a camp site. Starting a fire was out of the question as it would only serve to attract the attention of people and who knows what else.

    Wren finally spots a dead tree with uprooted roots that created a small nock and cranny large enough for someone of her size to comfortably curl up inside. Wren swiftly gathers a large pile of dead leaves to use as soft bedding and softly pats them down to make a soft, but noisy bed for herself. Using the travel bags as makeshift pillows, she pulls out a thin flannel blanket from her bag to cover her from head to toe leaving only her eyes peeking over the edge.

    Wren tries to not flinch at every creak heard in the woods as she clutches her pendant in comfort. To distract herself, Wren counts the stars to pass the time until her eyes close shut and only the faint sound of her breathing can be heard. In her dreams, Wren dreams she is a small child again as her father protectively cradles in his arms and promise her all will be well.

    Wren awakens to the sound of chirping birds in the cool morning air. Sleepily stretching her arms over her head, Wren twists her body from side to side as her back and neck pop in relief. Shaking the leaves from her hair, Wren rises and brushes the rest of the leaves out and off her clothes.

    Carefully putting her pendant back in its place, Wren rummages in her bag for a small brush and re-braids her hair. She may be a dirty, homeless traveler, but at least her hair will be presentable. After all, her father had instilled a sense of cleanliness into her as he loved cleanliness to the point of it being an annoyance. Wren shivers as she remembers failing to do and as her father was a mischievous creature by nature, he was quite creative when it came to punishments and revenge. There was a time when her father enlisted her help and by enlisted, she meant forced.

    A male patron had taken to regularly hurting the girls. Usually, such an action, would cause the Madam to immediately expel the patron from her house, but in this case, the patron in question was a very wealthy and powerful Viscount. Zarris absolutely hated to see any of the girls being horribly treated and so the ghost of the brothel was born.

    On the day the Viscount was to visit, Zarris bought a crate from gods know where filled with large, poisonous snakes, spiders and other creepy crawlies. Her father had her climb up into the attic with crate to release the creatures into the bedroom of the girl. Well, Wren did so, but in doing so the creatures did not take well to her handling them. And as some of the larger snakes were as large as her small self, they quickly attacked.

    Enraged, Wren¡¯s second set of teeth popped out as Wren bit the snakes in retaliation. Soon Wren became soaked from head to toe in blood and was covered in gore. Not to mention with her pronounced pale skin, Wren looked just like a ghost.

    Yet one of the largest snakes gave a run for her money as the Viscount opened the door to room. At that exact moment, Wren fell through the attic trap door onto the bed. All the Viscount saw was a ghastly being suddenly appear and devour a large snake into its mouth with a loud slurp. To the Viscount¡¯s utter horror, the terrible apparition fixed its hungry gaze onto him causing his bladder to weaken. Wet and afraid the Viscount ran out of the pleasure house shrieking about a ghost. After that, the Viscount never returned to the pleasure house of Madam Norialise.

    However, at the time of the Viscount¡¯s escape, Zarris stood roaring with laughter in the doorway instead of rescuing Wren from the vermin on the bed. It wouldn¡¯t be until he caught his breath that he would rescue a very sullen Wren. Though as a result, the house was temporarily closed until all the creatures were caught and killed. As usual Zarris was never caught, but Wren was certain that the Madam must have suspected he was the culprit. But without proof what could the Madam do? And besides the Madam was better off pretending she did not know the culprit responsible for the even as Zarris always got even, and even the Madam had fallen prey to Zarris¡¯s schemes.

    Wren quietly muses to herself, she couldn''t help and wonder if her father was a proper villain? But that didn''t really matter though, after all an Ogre is always the villain in storybook. Grumbling to herself, Wren takes a small trip to the woods. Upon her return, Wren shakes out the blanket and neatly refolds it back into the bag.

    Finished, Wren uses a large root prostrated in the air as a makeshift chair. While traveling yesterday Wren had come upon an apple tree and had gorged herself on the sweet fruit for lunch, before packing some up for later. Wren happily eats the crunchy apples including the core, before once more going on her way.

    Wren pauses at the edge of the road as she scans for figures on either side of the road, before emerging onto the road. ¡°What a wonderful way to start the day,¡± Wren thought to herself as she set off into the road once more. This cycle continued for several more days until Wren reached the Misty Woods after almost a weeks¡¯ worth of walking.

    Wren arrives at the entrance of Misty Woods at sundown and abruptly halts thereon. The quickly fading sunlight does not reach into the depths of the woods as thick trees stand imposingly in the way and within a few meters into the woods, the woods turn pitch black. Wren, uneasily peers into the dark woods while clutching her pendant through her clothes. It almost seems as through faint shadows are peering back from within the murky woods causing her to take a step back.

    Many lonely travelers are known to disappear inside and never to be found. Some are attacked by bandits and others by strange creatures roaming the woods in search of quarries. While, others fall prey to the Misty Woods itself: unexpected ravines, caverns and fissures that unsuspecting travelers fall into, and the soil that appear to be soild but once trodden upon swallows the unwary traveler whole not even leaving any traces behind. But worst of all, the trees seem to move causing travelers to wander off the path never to find their way back.

    However, the woods are even more dangerous after dark. At night when the full moon rises, the woods are bathed in silver clouds of mist descending onto the woods and hiding away the traveling pathways. The terrible woods become that much terrible and impossible to traverse with such a limited sight. And worst of all, the use of a lantern or light spell only serves as a flare for the inhabitants of the woods.

    Wren stares at the forest knowing full well how dangerous it was, but it was just as dangerous to camp out in the open. But at least the forest offered some protection, while out in the open there was none. Certain of her decision, Wren reluctantly reaches into her bag and pulls out a small dagger in a matching sheath. Attaching the dagger to her waist, Wren grimly hopes she made the correct decision and steps into murky forest.

    Wren quietly makes her way into the woods as each step brings her deeper into the gloomy woods. Soon, the entrance is out of sight and she is engulfed into plunging darkness. Wren uneasily waits for her eyes to adjust until once more she can see. It was not much, but for once Wren had sincere gratitude to the woman who birthed her and gifted her the ability to see in the dark.

    Wren regain her bearings as she listens to the woods, but nothing can be heard but eerie silence. There is no chirping of birds nor the soft sound of buzzing insects or the rustling of lively animals, absolutely nothing. The uncanny silence settles deep into her bones as if asking her to maintain the status quo.

    Wren licks her dry lips as she continues on the path debating how far to continue before searching for a camp. The skin on her neck suddenly prickles at sensing something observing her from the trees. Wren peeks in the direction of the gaze, but absolutely nothing appears in her line of sight.

    Wren¡¯s hands become sweaty as they tighten their grip on her walking stick. Moving forward, Wren listens and watches but nothing is still seen. Yet the further she goes down the path, the unnerving gaze does not disappear. Ignoring the unseen watcher, Wren continues for a candle¡¯s mark, before deciding to make camp.

    Wren takes a step off the road, when her skin begins to tingle. Wren recalls her father¡¯s words, "Always trust your instincts an ogre¡¯s skin will always tingle when danger is nearby.¡± Without hesitation, Wren bolts into the woods as she frantically searches for refuge to make camp or if need be a final stand.

    With her heart pounding in her ears, Wren finally glimpse a large red oak tree with large enough branches for her to spend the night on without having the fear of falling off. Sprinting at full speed Wren readies an ice spell, before leaping up the trunk and climbing at full speed. Branches scratch and pull at her face and clothes, but Wren does not let that stop her as a snuffling like sound draws closer and a foul carrion odor assaults her nose.

    Energized by fear, Wren climbs faster than ever until she reaches the highest branch that can support her weight without her having a fear of falling off. Wren holds in a breath of relief as she intently listens and remains still as the snuffling is heard even closer. Urged by some unknown survival instinct Wren releases her strongest Ice spells on the tree branches below. The branches instantly freeze and with a loud crackling sound break off under their own weight.

    The tree branches smash into each other as they plummet into the ground below causing a large dust cloud to rise as the loud crash resounds throughout the forest. As the minutes pass by the dust cloud settles as tiny baby branches continue to tinkle down below until the silence reigns through the forest once more.

    Wren anxiously peers below waiting for a glimpse of the creature as she stretches her sense to the limit. Out of the corner of her eye, Wren glimpses something large and hunched over moving leisurely among the trees. The snuffling sound is soon heard further and further away as the carrion scent lingers in the air until it slowly fades away.

    Wren slowly releases the breath she had been holding in as she leans against the tree trunk. Right on cue her stomach grumbles that it is hungry again. Reaching into her bag, Wren grabs three apples to appease her hunger. Wren gulps them in seconds, before satisfyingly curling up for the night. Despite leaning against her bags and with a stick in her lap, Wren tiredly falls asleep against the tree trunk.

    But the night was far from over as several times during the night Wren is awoken by the sound and smells of something drawing near. Each time the strangely shaped creatures would only pause to sniff at the tree before finally moving on. And each time, Wren would let out a sigh of relief and slowly relax against the tree in gratitude for its protection.

    A candle mark away from dawn something large rapidly draws near and roars. Wren awakes with a start to find her skin tingling like crazy and the hair on the back of her neck standing on edge. Wren¡¯s stomach clenches in unease as she holds her breath and searches for the source. From amid the trees a wolf-like beast appears carrying the stench of dried blood.

    Its fur is splattered with new and old gore as it sniffs the area eagerly. It sniffs hungrily as it smells food nearby but is unable to see it. It lets out a huff of dissatisfaction and circles the tree. Raising its malevolent gaze upward its black eyes lack pupils and appear as hollow black holes in a skull. Its lips curl up in a sneer at finding its prey hiding on top of the tree.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    Wren meets its dreadful gaze and forces herself to not stare away from its dreadful gaze as the weaker animal always stares away first. Wren steadies herself by clutching her pendant to keep herself from trembling in fear. She knew the monster would smell her fear and entice it that much more. Wren had to control herself as quick as possible, but that was easier said than done.

    It howls triumphantly announcing its discovery of its next meal, before leaping at its prey. However, it misses by more than a more than a few meters. It lets out an irritated grunt and leaps higher, but each time it unable to close the gap. It angrily claws at the read oak tree tearing chucks out of the tree bark, before retreating back into the woods.

    Wren slowly eases out her breath has her pulse slows back down and the trembling starts. Suddenly a vibration is felt as Wren turns in the direction the monstrous creature disappeared to. A rushing sound is heard as something large charges at full speed towards her. Wren presses her lips together in gloomy resignation as she sees the creature gallop towards her. Digging her nails into the tree Wren braces herself for impact lest she fall below.

    It digs its gory claws into the earth gaining momentum and slams its entire body into the tree. The red oak tree trembles frightfully each time it smashes into the tree for what seems like a lifetime. Wren desperately hopes the tree will withstand the attack and that the creature will quickly tire itself out and leave. But it does not and angrily roar¡¯s in challenge.

    It growls at the tree for daring to defy its attack and resist. It furiously claws again at the tree tearing dreadful chunks out of the tree, before defiantly howling at the night sky and retreating into the woods. Wren breathes through her nose and glances down at her chipped nails. Her fingers are bloody with wood splinters from her tight grip. Before Wren can remove the wood splinters from her flesh a similar sound causes her to angrily digs her nails into the tree.

    ¡°Oh, this is just plain ridiculous,¡± Wren thought to herself as she curses the creature in her mind. Wren calls the annoying creature a flurry of choice words that would have gotten her thrown into a prison in the capital. Tired of being afraid or maybe just irritated by the creatures repeated antics Wren readies water and ice spells and begins to plan on how to counterattack.

    It dashes at full speed at the red oak tree and at the last second it hurdles itself at the tree. It lands a few meters below its prey as it digs its claws into the tree bark. It eagerly sniffs the air scenting its next meal only a few meters above it. Its lips pull back to reveal a hideous grin, full of bloody fangs and teeth. The nauseating smell of rotting blood wafts up and clogs the very air as it digs its claws into the tree and slowly begins to climb upwards.

    Wren flinches in disgust at the rotting smell as the creature¡¯s face opens its jaws and laughs at her in silent triumphant laughter. Furious Wren narrows her eyes at the creature and growls, ¡°Ogres don¡¯t get eaten by woodland creatures, it¡¯s the other way around!¡± Wren reaches to her side for walking stick and shuffles closer to the ledge of the branch waiting for the creature to be in reach. She was going to show it just what she was made of.

    It licks its teeth in anticipation and eagerly climbs closer. It snaps its jaws eagerly already tasting its next meal. About a meter away from its prey, it stops and howls gleefully.

    Wren cautiously leans her head over the edge of the tree branch and smiles back at the creature below. The creature is still a bit out of her reach for her plan to work and there recklessly Wren motions with her hand for the creature to come closer. The creature eagerly heaves itself closer just as Wren uses all her strength to ram her walking stick into its left eye.

    Blood spurts out from its eye as it shrieks in pain and claws at its own face. It falls to the ground with a crash making a small crater into the ground. It angrily rises from the small crater and tears the stick from its oozing bloody eye socket. It focuses its one good eye on her and furiously growls showing a mouthful of razor sharp teeth. It vows to not rest until it has killed and eaten this meal.

    Wren smiles and waves cheerfully at the creature from her tree branch, before launching weak water and ice spells on the tree trunk causing the tree trunk to freeze over with a layer of slippery ice. Wren watches as the creature retreats again causing her to smirk, ¡°It looks like I¡¯m tougher than it thought.¡±

    It stomps its way back into the forest once again, before once more repeating the tactic from before. However, this around it is unable to dig its claws into the tree as it finds the tree surface is slippery. Its lips curl back as it maliciously snarls at Wren, before trying again.

    Wren smiles wearily at its fading figure, before recasting the same spells again. This irritating cycle is repeated time and time again with both parties becoming exhausted on both ends. Wren bites her lips as she finds her magic pool is rather depleted at this rate she would be defenseless during the day. Wren anxiously glances at the sky hoping that the day break would come soon.

    After what felt like an eternity of waiting, the new day breaks and the sun beings to rise over the horizon. As the sun rays begin to illuminate the dark woods the creature is forced to retreat into the woods. It howls in anguish and rage at its prey¡¯s escape, but marches away with anger and the promise of vengeance in its eyes, before vanishing into the shadowy depths of the woods.

    At its departing grotesque figure, Wren victoriously stands with her hands on her hips and clenches her right fist at it in show of her triumph over it. Once certain it was gone, Wren gleefully dances a little jig in sign of victory. Exhausted Wren falls back against to the tree and slides down onto her knees. Hugging herself Wren shivers as she realized she had survived all on her own.

    Smiling tiredly in satisfaction to herself, Wren¡¯s stomach rumbles remind her of its first priority. Wren pulls out the last remaining apples and a small dried fish for breakfast. After breakfast, Wren does her daily chore of braiding her hair. Although the entire time her fingers sting in constant reminder she needs to remove the splinters. Finished, Wren begins the tedious task of removing each splinter until she is at last done.

    Staring at her bloody, injured fingers Wren grimaces and reaches for a healing vial. Swallowing as quickly as possible Wren¡¯s eyes water in disgust as she wonders, if alchemists purposefully created healing potions to taste foul to dissuade people from being injured.

    Glancing around Wren scans the area for any nearby creatures but fails to see anything or anyone moving in the nearby distance. With care, Wren climbs down the red oak tree, before dropping the last fee feet onto the ground. With glee, Wren happily spots her lucky, but slightly bloody walking stick. Wiping the blood on a pile of leaves nearby, Wren finds her walking stick as good as new if not a bit battered.

    Before departing, Wren pays her respects in sincere gratitude to the red oak tree as her father had taught her to be polite and specially to show ones thanks to nature. Wren gratefully bows to the red oak tree and says, "Thank you for providing me with shelter and protection during the night. But most especially thank you for your great valor and strength in withstanding the creature¡¯s attacks."

    Wren bows once more and turns to leave before recalling one more matter. Turning back and apologetically bowing, Wren says, ¡°I almost forgot, I apologize for my lack of consideration. I hope you can find it in your tree bark to forgive me for destroying your tree branches." As Wren lifts her head the red oak tree branches seem to sway and dance to a non-existing breeze. Wren smiles and chuckles at its actions rather pleased that the red oak tree accepted her apology. Bowing one more Wren returns to the pathway and halts; Wren turns back and bows for the last time to the red oak tree, before continuing on her journey.

    Weeks later the gloomy Misty Woods are dead as usual as Wren stretches her arms over her head and tiredly yawns. Wren idly wonders, if she will ever make it out of the Misty Woods.

    Wren yawns again and covers her yawn with her hand as dark eye shadows can be seen under her eyes and her face has grown thin with hunger. In the weeks since her first night, Wren has taken to sleeping in large trees and repeating the same tactic of the first night. One could literally trace Wren¡¯s path based on the strange, lower branch-less trees left in her wake.

    However, that was not the cause of her lack of sleep and hunger. The reason was that every night strange creatures would awaken her by passing nearby or launching attacks at her campsite. To be frank, Wren hadn''t had a full night''s rest, since she had entered the Misty Woods. And as for her loss of weight, Wren was down to rationing the few morsels of food she had left. Water as not a problem with her magic, but she had yet to find a source of edible food that she could consume. Wren was so hungry that she was actually considering on whether attacking a night creature and eating them for food. And with each passing day that idea was starting to sound really good.

    Wren''s stomach grumbles angrily causing her to sigh miserably in agreement. Wren sadly pats her empty belly with both of her hands in a comforting manner as she tries to remember the last time her stomach was full. For an ogre to be hungry was quite shameful and Wren certainly was hungry.

    Trying to ignore her stomachs insistent protests Wren hears a loud rumble from overhead. Wren scurries to the nearest maple tree and begins to climb. Upon reaching the upper branches a strong gust of wind slams into Wren almost causing her to fall. Steadying herself, Wren glances in the direction of the fierce wind to the west. A fortress of dark clouds swiftly encroaches on the forest with potent thunder sounding in the distance as lighting gleams brightly in the distance.

    Wren pales as she recalls that the Misty Woods are particularly hazardous during thunder storms. Fierce lightning strikes caused random fires, while the forest caverns became inhabited with all manner of creatures seeking refuge. To make matters worse not all beasts feared the weather but thrived. Not to mention the flash floods that would occur from the higher grounds and pour down to drown any living being caught in the lower grounds.

    Wren anxiously glances all around for a nearby haven to spend the night in. In the distance a large hollow oak tree can be seen in the distance next to what appear to be a rock cavern. Wren twists her mouth in displeasure at the sight of the cave but staying in hollow tree was the safest she was going to get for now. She was just going to have to risk it for now.

    Not wasting any precious time, Wren darts back onto the ground as the wind picks up and almost flattens Wren. Fighting against the wind, Wren heads into the West as quickly as she can. Still the wind does it¡¯s best as dust, leaves, and branches are sent hurtling into the air at her. Dodging a branch, Wren realizes her eyes begin to smart as the faint scent of smoke is carried on the wind. Wrens fears are soon realized as smoke fills the air with the trees burning carrying the added fear that the fire may be carried towards her and entrap her.

    Soon Wren finds she is unable to breath as she coughs desperately trying to breathe the hazy air. Reaching for her left sleeve Wren ruthlessly tears it off and ties it around her face to cover her mouth and nose. Able to breath once more despite her eyes watering at the smoke, Wren presses forward.

    The woods darken as the storm finally arrives as lightning flashes overhead outlining the silhouette of the hollow tree in the distance. Wren sighs in respite and dashes across the remaining distance and heads inside the hollow oak tree. The rain bursts from the heavens as Wren pulls down her makeshift face cover as her lungs greedily breath in the clean air.

    Wren enjoys the quiet sound of rainfall as she painfully recalled that her father loved rainy days. When she asked him the reason why, Zarris replied, ¡°Do you that the best thing that ever happened to me was you and you came to me on such a day.¡± With laughter in his eyes, Zarris pulled the struggling form of Wren into his arms and covered in her wet, icky kisses.

    Wren sadly sniffs quietly herself, before busying herself by wetting her makeshift sleeve in the rain and wiping the soot off her face and neck. Clean and tired, Wren leans against the inner tree trunk and watches the rain fall. The downpour soon transforms into torrents of rainfall until muddy water begins trickling into the hollow tree.

    A familiar tingle unexpectedly awakens Wren from her peaceful trance. Wren uneasily tries to peer through the rain and is unable to see anything approaching. And yet, movement can be seen from the depths of the nearby rock cavern.

    Wren¡¯s stomach clenches as Wren lets out an exasperated sigh at her luck. Recognizing the familiar feeling, Wren grimaces as she eyes the hollow tree. If she was lucky the tree would hold but given the wet ground that probably wouldn¡¯t be the case.

    Stepping out into the rain, Wren eyes the slick tree bark as thunder roars ominously overhead. Placing her walking stick in her mouth, Wren leaps onto the tree and begins to climb as fast as possible. Several times, Wren almost slips, but manages to dig her fingers and feet into the tree to gain a foothold. Panting Wren wearily reaches the top of the hollow oak tree as she gazes down below.

    Lightning flashes overhead illuminating the muddy scenery as Wren narrows her eyes in the direction of the cavern. Raising her face, Wren sniffs the air and finds that a trace of blood can still be smelt despite the rain and mud. Wren crouches in waiting as she waits for the creature to come.

    It sniffs the air tentatively, before gingerly stepping out into the rain and howling at the turbulent sky in defiance. Its blood-splattered fur is wiped clean by the heavy rain causing rivers of red to run off its fur creating a bloody canal at its feet. The creature sniffs at the air and with a gleeful smile recognizes the insufferable scent. It raises its one good eye at its prey with a gaze burning with animosity and snaps its jaws hatefully at its escaped meal. This time it will not let its prey go.

    Wren watches it slither around the tree trunk several times in taunting. Rather than let it out of her sight, Wren cranes her neck to keep an eye on it. Seeing it act so Wren experimentally casts an ice spell at its fur to weigh it down. Wren¡¯s eyes widen with disbelief at seeing her spells be nullified upon contact.

    It sneers at its preys¡¯ spells and sticks out its tongue at her in a panting dog fashion. Finished with its taunting, it creeps right up to the trunk and digs its claws into the tree in front of it. Its two hind legs burrow into the muddy ground as it begins to push with all its strength against the roots.

    A quarter of a candle mark later, slowly, but surely, the hollow oak tree began to tilt. Wren clutches her dripping wet, walking stick in her damp hands in frustration. There is nothing she can do with her magic as spells are useless against this creature. The only way she can attack is for the creature to come within short range, but even so, she will still be at a disadvantage due to the creatures longer arm reach.

    It stops its course of actions at cunningly having found another way to reach its meal that much sooner. It withdraws from the tree and creeps a short distance away and burrows its claws into the muddy earth. Tilting its head back it howls at the sky, before grinning sinisterly and charging at the hollow oak tree.

    Wren promptly reaches for the small dagger at her waist and unsheathes it. Having guessed the creature¡¯s course of action, Wren braces herself as best as possible against the tree. The creature slams into the tree and with a loud groan, the tree slowly tumbles to the muddy ground. A few seconds before impact, Wren leaps to the ground and rolls to her feet. Grunting in pain, Wren is momentarily disoriented as she tries to regain her bearing.

    It had rushed into the woods to scrutinize its meal hungrily from within the woods. It absolutely loved to toy with its food as it inches its way into another direction and howls, before doing the same thing in another direction. Fear always gave the meat the best flavor.

    Wren''s gaze comes back as glances into her empty hands. Her walking stick had slipped out of her grasp when she had landed as Wren reaches down and hastily grabs it from the muddy ground. Wiping the mud onto her clothes as best as she can Wren can hear the creature howl from what seems in every direction. Lighting flashes illuminating the forest as Wren whirls her head around trying to spot it. Unable to find it, Wren¡¯s instincts scream at her to keep an eye towards her undefended back.

    Pride finally satisfied, it stops howling and prepares to have a feast. It slinks closer through the foliage and crouches waiting to pounce. Lightning flashes revealing his next meal as it pounces out of the foliage towards her.

    A branch breaks behind Wren as she automatically ducks to the floor. The creature leaps over her and soars snout first smack into a root from the hollow tree. The creature is dazed for a moment walking unsteadily on its feet. And using the opportunity, Wren vaults onto the other side of the hollow oak tree keeping the tree''s trunk firmly between them.

    It savagely shakes its fur sending a splatter of mud all over the tree trunk as it helps clear its mind from the impact. It crossly searches for its meal and finds it nearby on the other side of the trunk. It speedily bounds over the tree trunk and launches itself at its meal with claws sprung out and a wide-open mouth. It suddenly and rather abruptly skids to stop on the muddy ground as it tilts its ears in surprise as its meal isn''t there.

    Just as the creature leapt over the tree trunk Wren used her walking stick to vault over onto the opposing side. But that would only work as long as the creature played by the same rules. This was repeated thrice more, before the creature paused in understanding.

    It licks its teeth in annoyance at its meals lack of cooperation. It taps its nails against the tree trunk in thought and grins in delight at its brilliance. It hops directly onto the hollow tree trunk.

    Wren having expected that dives into the hollow oak tree. Wren crouches close to the roots entrance, waiting for the creature to enter the hollow trunk. And though she had no real strategy to deal with creature Wren would have to think of one to survive.

    It shrieks in frustration as it claws at the trunk shredding the tree bark in fury and quite easily its claws pierce through the hollow tree trunk. It grins with glee, and glides towards where its meal location. Without warning, it punches through tree trunk and grabs its meal by the leg. It ignores its meals futile attacks and widens the hole with its claws until it is able to forcefully drag its meal out of the tree. It holds its meal up by the leg as it gently and rather leisurely licks it¡¯s meals face. Satisfied at its meals taste it lowers its delicious face to its eagerly awaiting jaws.

    Wren helplessly dangles in the air and rather than panicking her mind races for a solution. Her heart involuntarily speeds up as the creature slowly lowers her to its awaiting jaws. Almost in its jaws Wren rams her walking stick down its throat and slashes with her right hand at its one good eye with her small dagger. In shock the creature¡¯s claws withdraw from her leg and fling her onto the hollow oak tree trunk causing Wren to hiss out in pain.

    It screams in pain attempting to dislodge the stick from its mouth by crushing it in its jaws. But the action only serves to further shove the stick into its flesh. In fury, it howls at the stormy sky swearing a bloody vengeance.

    Wren lays dazed for a moment, before crawling to her hands and knees. Wren shakily glances down at her left leg throbbing in pain. The rain that drips from her soaking pant leg is crimson as red drops drip down in tiny little red streams. Seeing her leg bleed out, Wren removes her rips off her remaining sleeve. Clenching her teeth in pain, Wren binds her leg as tightly as possible all the while keeping an eye on the creature only meters away.

    A faraway roar is heard in the distance and increases steadily as it approaches them. Wren turns her head towards the roar and her eyes widen in horror at the rapid approaching flood. Honestly, Wren did not think that her circumstances could get any worse, but the world had proved her wrong yet again. The sound of fierce waters destroying everything in its path is heard. The trees crumble and splinter into pieces at the floods ruthlessness. Boulders are floating in the water as though light paper sailboats tossed and turned in the breeze.

    It finally tears the walking stick from its wounded mouth and throwing the stick as far as it can muster. It blindly sniffs the air trying to find its meals scent through the pouring rain. After a few careful sniffs it finally finds its preys scent, but a strange dangerous roar begins to fill its ears. Its instincts scream at it to run as it bounds away in panic for higher grounds.

    Wren hastily unsheathes the dagger at her waist and plunges it into the hollow trunk. Wren holds on for dear life as she takes one last deep breath as the deafening wave swallows her. The flood sweeps into the valley and carries everything away. After a few minutes, the flood waters recede and slow down to a gentle stream trickle. The entire lower valley''s landscape has been instantly changed as streams trickle to a stop and a ravenous howl can be heard in the distance.

 *Chapter 5 - Underground Cavern

    Water streams from Wren¡¯s hair and body creating miniature cascades crashing onto the smooth limestone cave floor. Wren tiredly gathers her breath in the musty, gloomy cave and breathes in contentment knowing that she is still alive. The wet pile of mossy rocks she lays on digs into her back, but she ignores the mild nuisance and concentrates on regaining her strength.

    Droplets trickle down from the ceiling to a harmonious beat as they beat against the limestone floor. The trickling drops ring over and over creating a distinct roaring melody in her ears. Wren''s heart slightly trembles remembering the perilous flood as her body sub-consciously digs her fingers into the damp, moss covered round stones beneath her.

    When the flood swept her away, Wren thankfully managed to stay afloat due to the buoyancy of the hollow oak tree. However, as the flood became more violent she removed the dagger from the tree and was swept wildly into the current. Wren was tossed and turned in the raging waters and luckily, no foreign object impaled itself into her nor was she smashed to death by a boulder or tree.

    Struggling to breath, Wren had clawed her way to the surface as her lungs screamed for air. However, the water currents continued to pull her down into their murky depths. Wren floated helplessly as water streamed past her as her eyesight began to darken with despair. Wren had even idly wondered, if this really was the end for her. Even so, an urge to live filled her blood as she clawed her way to a tree root and held on for dear life hoping to hold until the flood waters receded.

    And sure, enough the roaring waters slowed but her vision began to grow dark as her lungs become on fire. Whether Wren wished to or not, her grip grew weaker and weaker until her strength disappeared, and she let go. And though her mind screamed at her, Wren¡¯s body couldn¡¯t cooperate as Wren was sucked into a large swirling hole in the ground and dragged into an underground cavern.

    Wren was violently thrown onto a limestone floor and lay half-drowned there. Boulders and trees quickly blocked the entrance as they were sucked in after her. As Wren lay there on the verge of unconsciousness she felt her hand let go of something as she tiredly thought, ¡°At least it¡¯s not with me,¡± before losing conscious.

    With great effort, Wren raises her weary, torn body to an upright position. A foreign object is felt underneath her palm and Wren glances down in shock to find her dagger. Wren gently picks up the knife by hilt and gently returns it to its sheaf at her waist. Reaching for the tangled travel bags on her neck, Wren slightly shifts her left leg. For a moment a burning white, hot light shoots up her leg. Wren holds her thigh and hisses in agony until the pain slowly dissipates. Still breathing heavily, Wren ignores the throbbing pain in her leg and untangles the travel bags from her neck.

    Wren is somewhat amazed that throughout all the tumultuous events that her travel bags did not catch on anything, but most importantly that even though the travel bags were entangled around her neck, they did not choke her to death. Wren gently opens both travel bags and peers into them to find them still perfectly dry inside.

    Wren tenderly reaches into her father''s travel bag and pulls out a fine woven, black, long-sleeved shirt. An overwhelming lake of conflicting emotions rages inside Wren as she cradles her father''s shirt in her hands. She lightly stretches her fingers to feel the shirt''s collar and strokes the finely woven, long-sleeved black shirt between her forefingers. Wren tenderly raises the neatly folded shirt to her check as the lingering smell of her father''s scent drifts up into the air engulfing her. The image of her father lovingly hugging her from behind drifts into her mind.

    Wren''s lips quiver in indescribable emotions as she shuts her eyes to keep them from tearing up. Her father is gone now, and she can''t rely on his memory to protect her. Her heart strangely at peace, Wren blinks back the tears and with a bittersweet smile carefully returns his shirt back to its place.

    Reaching into her own travel bags Wren pulls out several small health potions. But before she drinks the potion, Wren must remove the makeshift bandage. Cautiously lifting her leg onto the mossy stones, Wren gathers her courage, before removing the bloody, makeshift sleeve bandage and rolls up her pant leg.

    Wren¡¯s face turns pale as she has the urge to hurl as she sees the five large gouges of missing flesh. The only small comfort is that Wren does not see any visible bone. Taking a deep breath, Wren gulps down six health potions in a row and swallowing down the urge to gag. Most pointedly avoiding looking at her wound Wren studies the cave.

    The cave is quite small only about ten meters wide and six meters high. What captivates her attention is that the cave has two exiting tunnels. Hopefully one of them will lead her to the surface. After some time, Wren warily glances down at her injured leg and finds that the wounds have finally closed shut, while flesh is slowly refilling in the gaps. Satisfied at the healing potions progress Wren carefully pulls down her pant leg.

    Climbing onto her feet, Wren¡¯s bone creak as she tentative steps forward with her left leg. A slight pain if felt, but that may due to the missing muscle that is healing. Pleased at being able to walk again, Wren silently thanks her father for his careful preparations. If not for him, she probably wouldn¡¯t still be alive.

    Glancing upwards, Wren creeps towards the two tunnels. The tunnels are small as the right tunnel curves up towards the surface while the left tunnel curves deeper into the ground. After some careful deliberation, Wren takes a step into the right tunnel. Mid-step she abruptly stops as her skin beings to lightly tingle. Wren scowls at the passageway, before retreating and heading towards the other tunnel.

    Cautiously steeping into the next tunnel, Wren waits and doesn¡¯t sense anything before slowly making her way down the tunnel. The winding, narrow tunnel snakes down for more than a candle mark. Trudging down the passageway, Wren¡¯s only companions are her thoughts and the echoes of her footsteps. Time slowly passes by Wren marvels at the length of the tunnel and wonders if the tunnel will ever end.

    And as if in reply a gentle blue light begins to glow ahead around the next tunnel bend. Wren''s heart pounds in excitement and relief at last finding an end to the tunnel. Wren¡¯s instincts scream at her to hurry towards the light, but her mind warns her to be careful. Wren cautiously approaches around the tunnel bend and comes to a stop.

    The tunnel ends at the entrance of a colossal cavern that must at least half a league high and at least two leagues wide on either end. Astonished by the sheer size of the cave, Wren tilts her head up to gaze at the source of the blue radiating light. Wren¡¯s mouth flops open at seeing giant blue crystals hanging from the ceiling. The largest blue crystals are the size of a large house with the smallest being the size of a boulder. The glowing crystals are layered and set in an elaborate flower petal like patterns.

    Wren wonders at the powerful being, who could have created such an intricate crystal pattern? Satisfied, Wren turns her gaze away to continue to survey the cavern. To her delight, no more than a third of a league away lay a sky-blue lake in the middle of the cavern. Wren¡¯s mouth waters at the thought of food and instantly sets off for the lake.

    Wren skillfully creeps around stones and what appear to be large, ancient marble altar pillars. Sometimes, the large size of the pillars forced Wren to circumvent them rather than climb over them. After a short hike and a walk across a white sandy shoreline, Wren finally reaches the lakes edge. Darting in and around the glowing lake to Wrens great delight were glimmering and colorful fish. Wrens slit eyes fixate impatiently on the darting fish as she unconsciously licks her lips. A cat like grin appears on her face as her mouth become full of saliva, eagerly anticipating the taste of food.

    Wren worn boot accidentally dips into the lake causing her skin to tingle. Wren hurriedly removes her boot and studies her surroundings as her stomach rumbles desperately trying to convince her to ignore her instincts and go into the lake filled with food. Failing to see anyone, Wren tries the same action to gain the same reaction. Annoyed Wren angrily stomps her way across the white sandy beach kicking sand as hard as she can into the air. Still very much upset, Wren returns to edge of the sandy beach.

    Wren impatiently removes her travel bags and ransacks her travel bags looking for any item that could be used for a fishing hook or fishing line. After several minutes of pointless searching Wren throws her hands up in exasperation. Against her will, Wren returns her predatory gaze at the fish and gulps loudly at their sight.

    Wren happily argues against her instincts by claiming without food she will starve to death. Followed up with the claim that she had hands and teeth to catch the fish, she needn¡¯t swim in the lake. Wren¡¯s instincts finally give up in the face of her persistent logical argument.

    Wren cheerfully sits down on a nearby altar pillar and removes her scuffed boots. With interest, Wren skips across the sand, before burying her toes in the sand. Temporarily forgetting all about the fish, Wren sits down on the white sandy beach. She grabs a fistful of sand and plays with it in her hands enjoying the dry, damp sensation. Her father had told her before what sand looked like, but she had never seen or touched any other than that of hourglass sand.

    Wren happily crouches in the white sand and digs a small pit into the sand. Having finished, she crumbles the white sand into a little ball and begins to build a small mound from the dugout sand. Wren spends half a candles mark playing blissfully on the white sandy beach, before her stomach interrupts her play. Wren reluctantly wipes the sand form her clothes and hands, before reaching the lake shoreline.

    Wren tentatively places one foot into the sky-blue lake and to her great surprise she discovers that her skin is not tingling in warning anymore. Wren glares mutinously at her skin; her instincts must be playing tricks on her. Ignoring her skin''s cruel betrayal, Wren warns her instincts that later she will have a stern talk with them in regard to giving false warnings.

    The warm lake water gently sucks on her feet, bringing Wren back to reality. Wren eagerly plunges into the pool and swims around for several moments, before floating on her back. The beautiful blue crystal sun hangs over head as Wren stares in wonder and wonder how it got there in the first place. But the more she stared, Wren got the distinct feeling that the blue crystals were a giant flower the grew out of the earth.

    Feeling her eyes aching, Wren takes a deep breath, before diving towards the bottom of the lake. The lake wasn¡¯t too deep and soon Wren reaches the sandy floor as a pod of silver fish dart right towards her. Wren moves to grab them, but the silver fish scales are too slippery and easily evade her grasp as they slip through her fingers. Wren continues to try to catch them but to no avail until she is finally forced to rise to the surface and breathe air.

    Wren surfaces and breathes deeply for a minute or two, before taking another large breath and heading back down again. The same scene repeats itself for over for a candle mark. After more than three dozen ineffective attempts at catching fish Wren gloomily decides to give up.

    Wren pushes herself from the sandy floor and swims towards the surface, when the feeling of being watched appears as shivers run up and down her spine. Heart pounding, Wren abruptly stops swimming and floats in the lake. Wren blearily glazes through the water but is unable to see anything near her. Glancing down at her feet, Wren fails to see any fish causing her to swim for the surface.

    With a loud splash Wren surfaces breathing heavily and the feeling of being watched does not go away, her skin does not tingle. Wren shrugs and decides it¡¯s either a trick being played by her instincts or whatever is watching won¡¯t harm her. Wren climbs onto the surface shoreline and steps onto the white sandy beach to wring her clothes dry.

    Curious Wren decides to try looking one more time in the lake once more and kneels at the edge of the sandy shoreline. Taking a large breath Wren plunges head into the lake and glances around. Wren doesn¡¯t see anything until the second time around and spots a pair of glowing yellow eyes observing her from the depths of a deep underwater cave. Startled, Wren lets out the air from her mouth and chokes.

    Throwing herself onto the sand, Wren painfully coughs as water streams out of her nose and mouth. Through watery eyes Wren peeks over the edge to see the see the creature staring at her from the underwater cave. The eyes seem to be calling out to her and for a moment, Wren¡¯s mind fuzzily tells her to go towards it. Wren¡¯s instincts grumble at her until Wren looks away and scoots away from the edge once the creature disappears into the cavern.

    Wren sighs sadly as does her stomach in in tragic agreement, before heading back to her travel bags. Wren reaches into her bag for food, when a large roaring sound is heard from behind her. Switching targets Wren reaches for the dagger at her waist and twists around. A large pointed body erupts onto the surface flinging water all over the place and leaving Wren dripping wet.

    The lake creature¡¯s large basket sized, yellow eyes stare expressionlessly at Wren. Wren watches her body being unnervingly being reflected in its abnormally large sized eyes. Sneezing loudly in response and Wren glares rather annoyed at the creature for leaving her soaking wet. On the other hand, her stomach growls happily at the creature¡¯s large size.

    The creature resembles something like a squid only much larger. The creature opens its beak and shrieks at Wren causing her hair to be blown backward at its shriek. A fishy like smell assaults her nose causing her to gag in disgust as fish scales land in her hair. Wren crossly wipes the slime off her face as she glares menacingly at the stupid squid. Wren had eaten squid once, so this giant squid wasn¡¯t even scary in comparison to the monster of the forest.

    Ice and Water magic gather around Wren as she raises an expectant eyebrow at the creature and mockingly motions with her hand for the creature to have at her. The creature raises and waves its tentacles angrily in the air. Wren sneers at the squid and licks her lips instead, ¡°Yum, Calamari.¡±

    The protector of the sacred lake glares at the two-legged creature in front of it. The two-legged creature had defiled the pool of the of the sacred waters in search of the golden pearl. The golden pearl could only be given to a worthy vessel and in this two-legged interlopers¡¯ case clearly was not! Such disrespectful actions merited an instant death sentence!

    However, today the protector was in a generous mood and would permit the interloper to flee with its miserable life. The protector shrieked a warning to the two-legged interloper to leave this place and never return. The protector waits for the interloper to flee in terror, but the interloper does not.

    Wren waits for the creature to make its first move, but it only glares arrogantly at her. A trickle of saliva escapes her mouth as Wren races towards the squid. The squid shrieks at her, but Wren almost exhausts all her magic in one shot as she casts an ice spell all over the squid¡¯s tentacles and main body.

    The protector suddenly finds itself floating harmlessly in the water unable to move its main body nor its arms and legs due to being held down by ice. The protector roars in rage at the audacity of the two-legged interloper. How dare such a pathetic existence have the impudence to attack him? Yet the interloper did not retreat in terror. On the contrary, a large hungry smile appears on the interloper¡¯s face. The protectors skin prickles uneasily as a strange feeling begins to swell from inside. A feeling he had not felt since the fall from grace of Fayne, the Fallen.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.

    Puzzled at this long-forgotten emotion it takes the protector some to time recall the forgotten emotion from nearly a millennium ago, fear. The protector¡¯s eyes widen in disbelief and uncertainty as he struggles too free himself from his captor¡¯s bonds. He incredulity wonders, how could he who had fought against the Fallen; and against greater and far stronger enemies, possibly be afraid of such an insignificant existence? Yet the protectors dread did not disappear at his own words and were only further augmented. The protector apprehensively watches the interloper climbs onto his leg that is currently pinned onto the white sandy shoreline. In horrifying fascination, the protector observers the two-legged interloper unwaveringly scale its way up his body.

    The protector agitates his mighty body as best as he can, but the interloper steadfastly clings to him and does not fall. The two-legged interloper finally reaches the top of a leg and stares him directly in the eye as the interloper grins hungrily at him and licks its lips.

    Cold waves of fear wash over the protector as he desperately tries to shift his body enough too free himself. Large swelling waves rise forth and crash onto the shoreline with great strength. Yet the interloper still firmly holds onto his skin and tenaciously climbs its way to the mid-side of his left flank. The two-legged interloper reaches for the tiny dagger at its waist. The protector laughs at the interloper¡¯s pathetic actions as his large body creates small waves throughout the pool for a few moments. The interloper merely sneers at him from its foothold on his skin.

    The protector glares arrogantly at the two-legged interloper and swears that once he can free himself from his icy bonds, he will with great relish tear the interloper limb from limb. Just this once he will cry his triumph over his enemies fallen corpse. Afterwards, the protector will feed the interlopers dead corpse to the sacred water''s fish and the protector will leisurely savor the desecration of the interloper¡¯s body. And once the fish have finished their task of consuming the interloper¡¯s flesh, the protector will place the interloper¡¯s skeleton on shore as a warning to others. The protector sneers at the interloper and waits in eager anticipation to see the next foolish antic of the interloper.

    Wren had eaten squid in the house of the Madam and the cooks had even show her how to dissect squids and kill them. A large portly cook even showed her how to cut out a squid¡¯s brain by starting at the left side, mid-way up the squid¡¯s flank, and just below the left eye. Wren ignores the squids shaking and focus on the task at hand. Using the last of her magic, Wren prepares the last spell as she plunges her dagger as hard as she can into the creature¡¯s flesh. The water spell Wren cast was to guide her dagger into the squid¡¯s brain. Using her last bit of power, Wren sends her dagger deep into its brain effortlessly shattering it into hundreds of pieces.

    A great wrack of pain passes through the protector. In disbelief, the protector feels all of his strength vanish in an instant as his great and powerful body begins to topple over.

    The squid begins to topple forward and Wren unfortunate also finds herself sliding forward. If she fell from this height and if the fall didn''t kill her, then being crushed by the creature¡¯s body would. Wren desperately tries to find any sort of foothold on the creature¡¯s smooth skin. Even digging her nails into the creature¡¯s skin doesn''t work as her nails merely become covered in moist muck. Wren desperately slides forward until she bumps into the creature¡¯s eyelid. Holding on to dear life, Wren clings to the squid¡¯s gooey eyelid.

    The squids enormous body slams into the ground with a deafening thud sending a mist of sand into the air. The large blue crystals overhead quiver hazardously for a few moments before settling back down. The layer of sand that was thrown into the air gently trickles back down to earth. The protector futilely attempts to move, but he can''t feel or sense any of his limbs or body parts. He still can''t understand, how such a weak existence could possibly harm him. Slowly, his big yellow eyes close like a large moon waning in the night sky until he fades away into complete and utter darkness.

    Wren''s ears still ring from the crash as she carefully lifts her head. Shaking the sand from body Wren pulls herself off the gooey eyelid and rushes towards the lake. Wren washes herself until she doesn¡¯t smell like squid eyelid.

    Finished, not even with a second to spare Wren¡¯s second set of teeth emerges. Despite being raw and unwashed, Wren goes into an eating frenzy as she tears off large chunks of raw flesh. Several hours later, after her feeding frenzy is complete Wren rests on the sand with a round belly. Wren lets out a satisfied burp as she admires her eating feat. Against all impossible and humanly odds, she somehow had managed to eat a third of the creature¡¯s body. Too full to crawl back to her travel bags Wren falls sound asleep on the sand.

    In the following days, Wren would explore the cavern and find many strange pictures and writings on the pillars. There was even a large complicated magic circle that looked down on six broken like thrones. Perhaps to some other person this would have been an incredible find of great value. However, Wren thought the pillars and writing were uninteresting and useless to her since she couldn''t eat them much less understand them. Therefore, Wren promptly placed them out of her mind and forgot about them.

    Alas all too soon, Wren finished the last of the squid and after careful deliberation once more tried her luck at catching fish. However, this time around to her shock, Wren can clearly see the underwater caverns to the sandy pebbled floor and even the small coral reefs. It was like seeing clearly during a sunlit day or being able to see clearly at night with her night vision.

    In shock Wren opens her mouth opens in the shape of an O. Instantly air goes out as Wren frantically clamps her mouth shut and swims towards the surface. Panicking Wren swallows water causing her to swallow more water until Wren clutched her throat in bewilderment. Swallowing again, Wren finds that she is breathing perfectly fine.

    Confused at the situation, Wren swims to the surface and heaves herself onto the sand. Breathing the cave air, Wren stares in confusion at the blue crystal as she tries to understand the situation. Wren recalls that her father explained that clan heads such as her could absorb an enemy¡¯s ability upon consumption of their flesh. In that case, could be that she had gained the ability to see and breathe underwater? But if that was the case, some sort of condition must be met which she still wasn¡¯t sure of, but probably required the enemy to be stronger than her.

    Sighing, Wren decides to ignore the ability for now and enjoy herself. Wren sits on the sand and begins to build a sand castle and happily does so until her stomach rumbles. Her stomach most pointedly reminds her, that it is a most important priority that must be regularly fed.

    Wren shakes her head and walks back to the lake, before easily diving into the depths. Upon spotting a school of fish among seaweed, Wren darts forward hoping that now that she can see she can catch the fish. With some careful effort and practice not before long Wren successfully makes her first catch of the day. Wren spends a few more days like this before finally deciding its time to go and packs up. Wren uses her old torn shirt as a makeshift sack to hold freshly caught fish to carry away. Wren wasn¡¯t too worried that the fish would spoil as the cave cool would keep them largely fresh for a few days.

    Wren heads towards to a south tunnel as it was the only tunnel leading out since she had entered via the north tunnel. As Wren turns to leave a distracting golden beam begins to shine across her face. Wren peers in the direction of the lake and amid the lake on a small ledge lay a beautiful large pearl the size of her head at least. Wren narrows her eyes apprehensively at the pool as she had swum past that same ledge countless of times and yet had somehow managed to miss the glowing golden pearl. Ignoring that fact, why did the golden pearl appear before her now?

    The golden pearl gleams mesmerizingly at her from the depths of the glowing pool. Entranced by the golden pearl, Wren hypnotically takes a step towards the beautiful gold pearl that shines amid the lake causing the pearl to glow even brighter. The golden pearl whispers unspoken promises to fulfill all her dreams including taken vengeance upon those that wronged her and wielding unimaginable powers that the world had never seen. But most of all would unite the human realms to become the world''s greatest hero and be forever remembered as the hero who brought peace and prosperity to all the human realms.

    Wren¡¯s skin gently tingles in response causing Wren to awaken and blink rather dazed. Wren recalls the promises made by the golden pearl and snorts, ¡°No one tells an ogre, what to do much less a magical object?!¡± Wren purses her lips and spits in the direction of the golden pearl, ¡°Keep your magical powers to yourself!¡±

    Wren wasn''t looking to become a hero as she was already an ogre clan head. And according to most human legends, an ogre was the evil villain of the story. Turning on her heels with zero regrets Wren walks away and ignores the golden twinkles of light desperately calling out to her.

    After half a candles mark, Wren finally reaches the south entrance. The south tunnel is damp and quite large, large enough that even her father would have been able to walk comfortably. Wren tentatively takes a step into the tunnel, before continuing forth. The tunnel seems do dip and go up and then down again but mostly goes up leading her to believe she is heading in the right direction.

    After several candle marks with no end in sight, Wren¡¯s stomach growls anew and Wren reaches for the raw fish in the sack to munch on. This continues for several more candle marks as Wren shudders at the thought at being forced to rest in the dark tunnel. It would be a foolish action at she would not only be open to attack from both ends, but there was no telling what dwelt in the tunnel.

    Wren sets her shoulders in a firm resolute fashion and steadfastly presses forward until more candle marks later, Wren finally feels a change of air pressure. Wren hurries forward until the sound of a large waterfall cascading nearby can be heard echoing throughout the tunnel. The closer Wren approaches the end of the tunnel the the walls of the tunnel become exceedingly damp and humid. Small puddles form on the ground as water drips from the ceiling until the very tunnel begins to vibrate with the force from the water gushing down at rapid speeds.

    The roar of the waterfall filling Wrens ears and only grows louder with each step until she is unable to hear herself think. After what seems an eternity Wren emerges from behind the waterfall as a heavy mist descends on her and the surrounding rock walls. Wrens eyes widen in amazement at the glorious sight as thousands of gallons of water pour over dizzying heights and plunge down belong.

    Captivated by the sight, Wren marvels and forlornly thinks about how her father would have loved to see such a sight. Shaking such thoughts from her mind, Wren diverts her attention into searching for a safe manner down from her high up location. After a very careful search, Wren finally spots an old worn trail that leads horizontally across the rock cliff and finally down into the valley below.

    Wren clings to the damp rock wall as she treads carefully down the slick path. Several times, she almost slips due to the path being too wet. However, each time Wren would determinedly cling to the moist rock wall and dig her fingernails into the small rock wall fractures preventing her fall. A quarter candle mark later, the mists part for a moment and allow Wren to glimpse the basin floor that has a roaring river and a rocky riverbed.

    All to soon the mists settle back down but filled with a glimpse of the basin floor Wren presses forward. As time goes on Wren¡¯s arms begin to ache from the strain of clinging the rock wall. From the cold chill or her strong grip on the rock wall, but Wren can¡¯t feel her numb fingers. Despite being tired, Wren continues persistently onward.

    Further down the path Wren encounters a small area of the pathway covered in round pebbles. Wren only takes s small step across the pebble patch, but the pebbles were quite sodden with water and with added weight Wren slides forward. Losing her grip on the rock wall Wren¡¯s heart leaps into her throat as she desperately throws her weight against the rock wall. Digging her fingers into the gritty rock wall to regain her balance Wrens finger nails begin to bleed from the pressure until she comes to a stop.

    Wren trembles with exhaustion and shock as she clings to the rock wall. Taking deep breaths Wren reprimands herself for her carelessness and cautiously tests the next step before placing her weight on the path. Wren begins to laugh at her own nagging as she finds that it resembles that of her father. Her twinkling laugh echoes throughout the cavern as Wren laughs until tears begin to stream down her face. Gasping for air Wren tries to one handily hold her aching stomach as she is amazed at finding herself laughing despite the precarious situation she was still in.

    ¡°Always laugh even if you¡¯re in trouble,¡± that was her father¡¯s philosophy.

    ¡°Having a good sense of humor is important, Wren, because sometime that¡¯s all that keeps you going in a bad situation,¡± Zarris said.

    Back then the younger Wren didn¡¯t believe her father¡¯s words but the next moment would swiftly prove true as her father sing at her and his fist connected with her face. Wren¡¯s eyes had watered with pain as she kept herself from crying out and glared at him. Zarris had actually laughed at Wren¡¯s bruised eye as Wren sulked and turned her back on him.

    Still laughing Zarris took Wren into his arms and wisely said, "Wren, I know that you are still mad at me. However, in a real fight, your opponent would have taken that chance to attack you and kill you. Now that being said, it''s precisely in the worst of times, when you should laugh at your awful situation. If you can make light of your situation then that proves that you are still alive. And if you are still alive, then you still have plenty of fight left in you.¡± After a brief pause, Zarris hastily added, "Not to mention it actually throws your opponent off their pace and pleas you relax your tense body and mind. So, remember to always laugh."

    Her father''s words were true Wren causally observed her body as her heart and body were no longer trembling and had relaxed. Wren even felt reenergized as she picked up her pace and went forward. As the trail becomes more wet there are puddles Wren must jump over. Another candle mark later Wren¡¯s foot abruptly stands in empty air. Wren hops back a step and places her foot on the edge as she peers over her shoulder at the pathway.

    About a meter or so of the of the pathway has crumbled away due to the moisture. Ordinarily, this would have been an easy leap for Wren but given the mist Wren was unable to verify the state of the rest of the pathway. Wren could potentially clear the hole to only find the rest of the pathway was weak and crumbling away to have her plunging into the valley.

    Wren bits her lips in aggravation as she considers alternative options but finds none. Left with no other choice, Wren back up as for as possible and stills herself. Clearing all needless thoughts from her mind, Wren crouches on her feet and tucks her arms as close to her body as possible. Taking a running step forward, Wren leaps forward and leans forward to gain more depth to her jump.

    Wren floats a moment in the air a she crosses the chasm to only find herself falling. Kicking forward Wren tries to gain altitude and leans forward barely landing on the edge. Trying to keep her balance, Wren swings her hands wildly in the air and digs her nails into the wall. Feeling a slight pain, Wren pulls her full weight forward and rams her body into the coarse rock wall.

    Mentally exhausted Wren rests her face against the damp rock wall as she feels the sweat on her brow cool against the cool rock. Wren¡¯s heart eases as her hand cease to tremble at the thought of being that close to falling. Refusing to look back nor much less down, Wren goes forth again in hopes of finally reaching the floor.

    And so, Wren¡¯s wishes were granted as less than a quarter of a candle mark later Wren sees the valley floor meters away. Rather than walking the rest of the way, Wren impatiently leapt off the trail onto the river bed. The rock floor is moist causing Wren to skid to a stop as she keeps her arms outstretched to keep her balance.

    Wren turns around to glance behind her and marvels at the sheer height of the rock wall. From her current standing point, she wasn¡¯t even able to see the halfway point. Having gawked enough at her climbing feat, Wren studies the river. White churning waters violently toss each other from side to side as the winding river that separates the rock wall from the rest of the cavern. Wren sighs at another feat to challenged as she sighs to herself, ¡°I just finished climbing a giant rock wall, please give me a break!¡±

    Wren walks the stretch of the river bed to find a safe crossing point but doesn¡¯t see any bridge type structure. And though Wren could breathe and see underwater it would be useless given the fierce river currents that would carry her away. Instead Wren turns her sight to the line of evenly spaced, large obsidian stones that span across the river and back.

    Not seeing any other choice, Wren scrambles across the river bank and stops at the edge of the swirling white waters. The river purposefully splashes a mouthful of icy cold water into Wren¡¯s face as the river rumbles happily at the sight of her dripping wet face. Wiping her face with her sleeve, Wren ignores the rivers antics and accepts the rivers challenges. They would see which one would be laughing in the end.

    With a determined gaze Wren tests her weight against the river bank and leaps forward much like a jump frog. Wren slippery lands onto the stone and clings to it in order not to fall. Herat in her mouth Wren carefully totters to her feet as the violent rive sprays water mist into the air making the round stones very slippery.

    Taking a gulp of air, Wren braces herself as best as she can before leaping again. This continued for the rest of the way and even though Wren came close to falling several times, she didn¡¯t. Wren almost worshipfully leaps from the last stone to the cavern''s basin floor. Thankfully Wren lands firmly on her two feet and almost kisses the solid ground in pure joy at its lovely non-moving sight.

    Wren rests her hands against her hips, breathing tiredly as she wearily studies her nails that are scuffed and broken from clinging onto the rock wall and the river stones. Glancing back at the river stones Wren smiles in victory as river gurgles in displeasure. Finished catching her breath, Wren studies the large cave that seems to stretch in every direction. To her delight Wren spots small vegetation and shrubbery that seemly grows without any visible light source.

    Wren only pauses to readjust her travel bags before treading across the rocky, dirt floor. Wren heads south and with a few minutes the smell of roasting meat fills her nose. Wren¡¯s mouth unconsciously begins to water at the scent despite having eaten an entire sack of raw fish. Wrens stomach innocently counters that this was cooked, mouthwatering food and that the source must be investigated. Tring not to lick her lips, Wren thinks it can¡¯t hurt to take a look. Besides she can always run away, Wren consoled herself, before heading towards the source of the scent.

 *Chapter 6 - Underground Meeting

    Across a small gully of red, white polka-dotted mushrooms is a small homely wooden cottage. Wren blinks in disbelief and hastily wipes her eyes clean with her fists. Hunger must surely have begun to addle her mind. But after blinking furiously, the cottage did not disappear.

    In front of the cottage is a spit with some sort of creature being roasted. Wren creeps as stealthily as possible down the pebbly hill and towards the cottage as she cautiously listens for any sounds but is unable to hear anything. Scurrying from brush to bramble Wren finally reaches the cottage. Leaning against the wall Wren peeks through a dusty window to only see a small wooden table and chair on onside and on a medium sized wooden post bed with trunk at its feet with no sign of the owner inside.

    Suddenly Wrens skin tingles much too late as a voice from behind her says, ''What do you think you''re doing on my property?" Wren warily spins around to face the speaker.

    A black haired, lean middle-aged man intently gazes at Wren with a strange indescribable look in his grey eyes. The middle-aged man is about six feet tall with a tall gaunt face and bags under his eyes. His orange bright robes are dirty and have badly sown patches on them. The middle-aged man glares at her as he clears his throat and crossly asks anew, "Did you not hear me? I said, what do you think you''re doing on my property?"

    With Wren¡¯s skin tingling like crazy, she knew that whoever this man was he was dangerous! Wren keep her back to the wall as she slightly tilts her head in a bow without removing her eyes from him. ¡°I''m sorry if I trespassed on your land, sir, but I was swept into the cave system by a flood, and I''m just looking for a way back to the surface. I''ll be leaving now and getting out of your way," Wren quickly stated.

    Wren slowly inches past the cottage to retreat back towards the hills. Wren had on idea why the middle-aged man was here, but she had no intention of finding out. But even more so, his eerie gray eyes gave the willies, because he still appeared to be pondering her words.

    Finished deliberating, the middle-aged man comes to a decision that he can live with. "I''m sorry, but I can¡¯t trust you. You would to have walked past the sacred waters protected by its holy guardian. And the guardian would have an easy time of destroying you. So, unless you are more powerful, than you appear which I highly doubt. You would have had to been sent here by someone quite powerful, " the dark-haired man loudly declared.

    Wren slightly pales at his words. Not only does the madman want to kill her, but she may have eaten and consumed a holy guardian?! Well, if the gods didn''t like her before, they sure have a reason to hate her now.

    Wren tries to use diplomacy to change his mind. "Look, I can prove I got past the holy guardian. It was a giant squid," Wren boldly said to softly mumble, "Which I ate." Gazing into the man¡¯s face Wren resolutely says, ¡°Nonetheless, I can promise you that the treasure of the lake the golden pearl still resides there.¡±

    The madman cheerfully smiles at Wren. "It doesn''t matter really. I won''t believe anything you say." Before the madman takes a step toward her Wren leaps back as the madman continues, "I apologize for having to kill you, but I''m left with no other choice, little elf."

    At his response, Wren glowers at being called, "little elf." Wren roars back, "I''m not an elf! I''m an Ogre, you, idiotic madman!" Wren futilely clamps her hands over her mouth trying to stop the words from exiting her mouth. But as usual it is already too late Wren had already called the madman an idiot.

    The madman cocks his head in curiosity at her statement, but his disbelieving cold face does not inquire about it. Before Wren can react, the madman is already behind her as Wren rolls to her feet and casts an icicle at him. The madman shatters the frozen magical icicle with his bare hand as the ice shatters into pieces.

    Filled with dread, Wren backs further back as the madman raises an inquiring eyebrow and asks, "How old are you child?"

    Wren glares back at him, not trusting him one bit. "If I tell you, will you let me go?" Wren asked.

    ¡°No,¡± the madman honestly replied.

    ¡°Then it¡¯s none of your business," Wren flatly exclaimed.

    The madman frowns at the child''s response but decides to quickly end this farce. This child had been taxing on his already delicate nerves. Besides he had a roasting bird on the fire, and any more distractions would cause his juicy, succulent bird to burn.

    The madman merely takes one step forward and appears behind the child again. Before the child can react he already has the female child by the back of her neck much like a kitten and with other ready to suck the life out of the child.

    As the other hand reaches for her, Wren¡¯s second set appear as she twists her head and chomps on his hand. With a vicious twist of her head, Wren ruthlessly tears the hand off with a loud crunch and hastily swallows. Hissing in anger, Wren bares her to teeth at the madman. If she was going to die fine them, but it would be on her own terms.

    The madman doesn''t scream or make a peep of pain nor react negatively in any form or manner. On the contrary, the madman stares in utter fasciation at the child''s second set of teeth. He had not expected to find such a pleasant surprise as he smiles in pleasure at the child.

    Bewildered the child just stares at him in confusion. The madman calmly raises his bleeding wrist and shows his wrist to the child. The child watches in disbelief as his hand grows back within a few seconds as the child''s mouth falls open in disbelief and dismay.

    The madman grins in approval at the child''s appropriate reaction. The madman smiles happily and says, "Why didn''t you say you were an ogre clan head? I would have been a lot more polite.¡±

    Wren stares wordlessly at the madman until she grudgingly says, "I did say, I was an Ogre!" Wren doesn¡¯t even wince at her tone of voice as she was dealing with a deranged lunatic. Who knows, what a crazy person wants?

    The madman seems astonished at her callous response, before pensively saying, "Are you sure? Because I''m sure I would have remembered you saying that you were an ogre clan head."

    Wren stares at him in despair as words simply fail her. This man is completely insane! If she was able to she would be running away in the opposite direction as fast as she could! Wren drily replies, "I did tell you! You told me, you wouldn''t believe anything I said.¡±

    The madman takes a step back clearly taken back at her words. For a moment he looks shamefacedly at her, before merrily winking at her. "Whoops, must have slipped my mind. I must be getting senile in my old age," the madman sheepishly said as he shrugs his shoulders.

    Wren opens her mouth to fervently respond in agreement but thinks better of it. Who knows what the crazy, forgetful and clearly deranged man may do to her. However, she''s clearly sure of one thing and that if he''s not already senile, he probably will be shortly.

    The mad man easily carries Wren with one hand and places her onto a stone next to the fire pit. "Now you stay still, while I finish cooking us up a fine dinner, alright?" The madman said.

    Mostly in shock at his sudden change Wren just dumbly nods in response. She doesn''t protest his actions and silently watches him. It doesn''t even occur to her that he may decide to poison her instead of feeding her. But who would do such a monstrous thing? Only a human would desecrate food.

    The madman moves around the cottage and brings out a fine wooden table from inside the house with two finely crafted wooden chairs. The madman slaps his forehead in a dramatic fashion and reprimands himself saying, "You idiot, you forgot the silverware!"

    Followed by, "I am not an idiot! For your information that was going to be my next step!"

    "Oh really? If I remember correctly, you were thinking of cutting up the meat and serving it with your bare hands, you barbarian!" The madman yelled at himself.

    Wren slowly edges away from him on her stone as she watches the madman have an internal conflict with himself. She is very seriously, considering running way even if it isn''t a very good option. Or better yet, maybe she''s better off fighting him again.

    With a final shout, the madman stomps back into the cottage and returns with sparkling silverware, two lovely beige napkins, and an exquisite fine blue tablecloth. Carefully setting the table, the madman even properly places all of the napkins and silverware. To top that off the madman returns to the cottage and back with a jar, two matching plates, and two lovely jeweled cups. Finished setting up the table properly, the madman smiles in pleasure at the picturesque sight.

    With a cheerful spring in his step the madman returns to his guest the small, but lovely ogre clan head. "Before we start, allow me to introduce myself. I am called many names, but for all intent and purposes, you may just call me, Hermit," the madman proclaimed.

    Hermit paused and says, "And before I forget my manners, please allow me to apologize for that unsightly display of behavior you just witnessed. It''s just that I rarely have visitors and I sometimes forget how to act properly in front of an esteemed guest just as I did today. You have my sincerest heartfelt apologies for having gotten ahead of myself." Hermit even bows sincerely to the little ogre clan head in a proper court bow.

    Wide-eyed Wren nods at Hermit and eases as far away as she can without insulting him. She already knew Hermit was clearly insane and an apology won''t change her mind. Deciding to stay on his good side lest the lunatic take offense, Wren freezes. How does one stay on the good side of a deranged person?

    Seeing the Hermit intently staring at her Wren wryly comes to. "My name is Wren and I''m an ogre,¡± Wren truthfully said as she takes a seat at the table. Crazy Hermit may be insane but at least he is polite as Hermit cuts the bird into slices and serves her first.

    Seeing Hermit not eat and only study her, Wren anxiously swallows and wonders if the food is poisoned. Seeing Wren pause the Hermit asks, "Is the bird not your likening?"

    ¡°No, it¡¯s just that you¡¯re not eating,¡± Wren quietly replied.

    ¡°Oh, that. It¡¯s just I''m just surprised you didn''t thank the gods for the food. Most people I meet always start with that,¡± Hermit murmured back.

    Wren shrugs and pragmatically answers, "Father, taught me to thank those who actually help us. I pray in my heart, but usually never to anyone. Besides, since the Gods withdrew from the world, they have their chosen ones who speak directly to them, so why bother.¡±

    Hermit merrily laughs at Wren¡¯s response and curiously asks, "Then what do you think of the fall?"

    Wren sheepishly shrugs as she cuts a piece of meat with her knife,."Please don''t take this the wrong way, but I wouldn''t be here without it. What''s the use of thinking about the past? You can''t change it, no matter how much you wish for it," Wren rationally mumbled with a mouth full of food.

    Wren paused and swallows, ¡°But if I could change the past I wish father was back. He never did anything wrong, he didn¡¯t deserve that!¡±

    Hermit perks up in curiosity and asks, "Well, now. Now that sounds like an interesting tale. How about it? Won''t you tell me your story?" Hermit expectantly looks at the little ogre clan head as interlaces his fingers and rests his chin on them. He did so love hearing new stories as didn¡¯t often have the opportunity. And stories were one of the few things that still were capable of surprising him even now.

    Prompted at his words the little ogre clan head starts from the begins. Wren tells him of her birth and childhood, then of their escape and of her father¡¯s death, and to her journey through the woods and the caverns.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    The Hermit watches the little ogre clan head with fascination and interest at finally having found an interesting specimen for the first time in many years. Hermit¡¯s heart beats in exhilaration as his whole-body brims with excitement. In wonderment, Hermit recalls the long forgetting emotion of feeling alive. For the first time in many years, Hermit savors the long ago forgotten emotion that may be one day forgotten again, but not any time soon.

    Wren feels uneasy at the Hermit¡¯s tenacious gaze as he has yet to say a single word to her. Worried that she may have bored or offended him in some manner, Wren asked, "Why did you say, that you were happy I was an ogre clan head?"

    The hermit enthusiastically says, "That''s exactly what I was thinking about it! I knew it great minds think a like!"

    Wren pales visibly at his statement, because she certainly didn¡¯t think so. Besides she had yet to grow up and being an adult appeared to be a questionable and hazardous occupation. So, no thanks, she would rather remain as she was!

    "Stay here for just a moment," Hermit excitedly yelled as he rushed into the cabin.

    ¡°Anything that can excite the deranged hermit, clearly can''t be a good thing,¡± Wren thought to herself. And her worst suspicions were confirmed when Hermit exits the cottage carrying a large broad sword in his hands. Uneasily Wren stirs in her chair, whatever the lunatic had in store for her surely can''t be good!

    Hermit excitedly says, "Now don''t move a muscle! Or this might hurt more than it should!"

    Hermit swiftly swings the sword blade towards Wren¡¯s right hand and in fear Wren throws herself to the side. ¡°I knew it the madman is trying to kill me!¡± Wren thought to herself as she frantically climbed to her feet.

    ¡°Look I¡¯m sorry and now will be on my way, goodbye!¡± Wren said as she ran off! She knew she should have never trusted the madman even a little bit. And now that he had fattened her up, he was going to cut her into pieces and eat her! Or even worse put her onto the fire spit and roast her alive!

    Surprised and hurt by Wren¡¯s actions Hermit says, "Stop running around this instant! This will be over before you know it!" And rushes forward with a crazy gleam in his eyes.

    Hermits words don''t fill Wren with confidence on the contrary, she''s more alarmed than ever! Wren''s heart pounds desperately in her chest as she dodges time and time again, wondering, how long she can keep up the pace?

    Cross with the little ogre clan head¡¯s cruel assumptions, Hermit decides to resolve the situation the only way he knows how to through sheer violence and brute force. Hermit leaps onto the frustrating child and pins the little ogre clan head to the ground. The infuriating child struggles beneath him causing him to sit on top of her legs and pin her arms under his knees.

    The hermit leers in triumph as the child glares angrily at him. Ignoring the glare, Hermit gently grasps one of her arms and holds out it out as planned.

    Wren¡¯s heart violently trembles as she closes her eyes expecting the worse. Unable to maintain them shut, Wren¡¯s eyes fly open at the whistling sound in the air to see Hermit bring the blade down and chop off her left arm. Wren turns green at the sight as a fierce pain shoots up her arm, before becoming numb.

    Angry tears prick the corners of her eyes as she grinds her teeth together to keep from crying out. ¡°This bastard! I will see him dead, if it''s the last thing I ever do!¡± Wren frigidly swore to herself. And in reply a terrible strength suddenly fills her body as she kicks Hermit off her body and grabs for his collar. Furious, Wren raises her fist and slams her fist with full force into his face sending him airborne into the sky.

    A small cloud of dust is thrown into the air, before quickly settling back down as Wren stomps over and kicks his limp body for good measure! Not satisfied Wren raises her worn boot and brings down her full wrath onto his most precious family jewels to only freeze mid-way at seeing her arm back.

    Disbelieving Wren turns back to see her chopped off left hand strewn on the ground. Feeling sick to her stomach Wren takes deep breathes as she struggles to understand the situation. Either way, Hermit was to blame.

    Satisfied at her conclusion. Wren narrows her eyes and raises her boot and aims for the prized jewels. Coming to Hermit eyes widen in fright as he scrambles back and away. Clutching his bleeding nose, he stops a way a way. "Some strength you got their kid to think you actually managed to break my nose," Hermit mused out loud.

    Wren grudgingly walks over and holds out her hand to help him to his feet. Back on his feet, Hermit brushes the dust from his clothes and says, "Did you know that ogre clan heads who have the ogre ancient bloodline have a second set of teeth that can absorb the abilities of a fallen enemy?"

    Hermit expectantly waits to be praised as Wren flatly says, ¡°Father already told me so and I figured it out after I ate the squid.¡±

    Hermit¡¯s eyes gleam in approval and in dismay at failing to surprise her. "Of course, as a female clan head unlike male ogre heads, a female clan head is limited to only three chances, and once they are used up the ability is gone.¡±

    Wren almost weeps in anger, it just wasn¡¯t fair! All because she was female, she was limited in use! Well, she would show them! Of course, that meant that Squid and Hermit were two uses which just left one more shot at gaining a new skill.

    Wren ignores Hermit until she sees him reach for his fallen blade. Hermit smiles and causally chops off his own arm as Wren turns green. ¡°See, I have an instant regeneration ability and you naturally absorbed it, isn¡¯t it simply wonderful that I¡¯m among one of your three gained skills?¡± Hermit exclaimed.

    Wren eyes Hermit as through viewing a pervert. Is there a reason why she should praise him? Wren shrugs and hopes he¡¯s not a pedophile.

    Seeing a look of disdain in the little ogre¡¯s eyes Hermit says, "With instant regeneration ability you never have to worry about healing, because you instantly will heal.¡± Falling to see surprise or awe on Wren¡¯s face, Hermit unhappily adds, ¡°That being said, instant regeneration is not immortality. You will probably live much longer than an ordinary elf and you are most certainly killable if your enemies chop off an important bit a such as your head or heart.¡±

    Wren keeps the joy from showing on her face at such a useful ability. Healing potions were no longer needed and best of all, it was an excellent skill that would ensure her survival. Still, she was still rather mad at Hermit.

    Hermit fails to see any sign of joy on the young ogre clan head. Cross at seeing his magnificence, Hermit decides to take the little ogre clan head under his wing. Powerful men and women had come to him and he had turned them all way! The little ogre would no doubt be over joyed at his grand merciful gesture.

    Wren raises her eyebrows at Hermit in impatience as she wonders, what the blast is the deranged hermit thinking now? At seeing the perverted smile on Hermit¡¯s face, Wren has only one urge beat the disgusting smile off his face.

    "Now then, how about some training before you go?" The hermit merrily said as he expectantly waits for Wren to be openly delighted at his benevolence.

    Wren instantly agrees with her instincts and turns on her heels fleeing rapidly into the hills. Within moments, the hermit has caught up to her and drags her back by the collar. Wren numbly allows her to be dragged back as she knew resistance was futile at the moment.

    Hermit deposits Wren back at the cottage as he sighs and runs his fingers through his hair. ¡°I suppose I have frightened you and you don¡¯t realize the glorious offer which has been extended to you. I understand you must be exhausted and don¡¯t have your full senses. Go and rest in the cottage, tomorrow training starts," Hermit kindly stated.

    Wren nods her head obediently as she gathers her travel bags and heads into the cottage. Before she even opens the door, Hermit seemingly guesses her thoughts and says, ¡°Don''t even dare think about escaping.¡± Wren snorts with disdain and slams the door shut behind her.

    The hermit grins ruefully at the campfire as he smiles at the child¡¯s tenacity. Cheerfully whistling he douses the fire and heads past the cottage and into the cave plain. It was going to be an exciting day tomorrow, he just couldn¡¯t wait!

    Wren sighs dejectedly at being unable escape her fate as pulls her blanket over her head and resigns herself to be subjected to Hermit''s whims. Curling up, Wren clutches her pendant in her hands and falls into a deep slumber.

    A bright blue sky stretches in the horizon as puffy white clouds move slowly across the sky. A much younger Wren lays on the soft, lush, green grass and points out familiar shaped clouds such as a bunny shaped cloud that makes her mouth water at the delicious sight. Suddenly, her father''s face suddenly looms overhead efficiently blocking her view of the delicious sights.

    Wren mildly protests at his actions, but Zarris ignores them and tenderly pulls her into his arms. Zarris carries her up the gentle slope, before resting against a leafy oak tree. They sit there in silence as Wren sleepily nestles in his arms as Zarris softly murmurs, ¡°You¡¯ve done so well on your own and I am so proud of you.¡±

    Wren lets out a faint sound of protest as Zarris softly coos, ¡°Now go to sleep, I¡¯ll keep overwatch you for tonight.¡± Letting out a soft sigh, Wren closes her eyes as she is rocked to sleep in her father¡¯s arms.

    Wren jolts up wide awake at the unfamiliar surroundings as she cautiously observes her surroundings. The events of yesterday some almost like a dream, but the cottage was proof enough of their transpiring. Wren yawns and stretches her arms up in the air causing her body to stretch in grateful relief.

    Sniffing the air, Wren¡¯s stomach grumbles at the delicious scent. Swiftly climbing out of bed, Wren properly does the bed and hurriedly braided her hair. Wren vigilantly exits the cottage and eyes the blazing fire pit that has a large pot gleefully bubbling away. Failing to spot Hermit, Wren¡¯s face visibly brightens at the thought of the Hermit tragically having gone missing. And as if in reply, Wren feels a small prickle on the back of her neck as she sadly sighs and turns around to see the deranged man standing behind her.

    Hermit sweetly smiles and holds a basket full of clean vegetables. Hermit walks over to the pot and swiftly chops the vegetables into the pot. ¡°I caught fishes in this morning and I thought that a lovely fish stew would be a good way to warm the bones,¡± Hermit mused out loud. And as if forgetting all about Wren, Hermit cheerfully hums a little tune, ¡°Blacks socks the more that you wear them, the blacker they get-, sometimes I think I should wash them, but something inside me keeps yelling, Not Yet, Not Yet!¡±

    Wren ignores the Hermit as the tune speeds up every time. After a while, Hermit stops singing and uses a wooden spoon to taste the soup. Hermit lets out a satisfied sound and says, ¡°Perfect,¡± before grabbing to wooden bowls and serving the fish soup.

    Hermit hands Wren her bowl and spoon as Wren carefully blows on the soup to cool it down. Taking a sip of the soup, Wren lets out a happy sound and begins to eat. Hermit mostly watches Wren as he takes a sip of his soup here and there. Wren ignores Hermit¡¯s perverted gaze and tries to only focus on her food, before getting up and serving herself another bowl.

    After the third serving, Wren contently lets out a satisfied sound as Hermit mumbled out loud, ¡°Goodness, you eat a lot.¡± Wren sniffs to herself deeming Hermit unworthy of her attention as she purposefully rises to serve herself another bowl.

    Hermit wilts at Wren¡¯s actions and sighs to himself at his graciousness as a magnanimous host. Hermit finally perks up at Wren finishing her fourth bowl of soup and self-importantly says, ¡°Good, now we can start! Now, I won¡¯t have much time to train you as I have prior engagements to take care and I am certain that you do as well.¡± Hermit paused and ponderingly mutters, ¡°Of course, I could postpone that and move that to later and I would have more time to spend together.¡±

    Wren does not panic at Hermit¡¯s words and sneers at hermit as she flatly says, ¡°Such an honorable man such as yourself would never break their vows. I¡¯m certain that a wise, noble man such as yourself wants to set a good example to his student.¡± Wren strongly hints at the Hermit with her eyes that a busy man as himself should give on training her and clearly go on his way.

    Hermit eyes Wren with mixed feelings. For one, he really wanted to make this little ogre clan head his personal disciple, but he really did have things to take care of. Secondly, he had the distinct feeling that the child¡¯s words weren¡¯t sincere. And lastly, he was certain that if given the chance his precious pupil would bolt at the mere mention of being taken away to train at his side.

    Sighing with regret Hermit rubs the back of his head with his hand. "Well, seeing as we are short on time I will do my best to teach you in the that we share together," Hermit optimistically said as frustration and annoyance can clearly be seen on Wren¡¯s face.

    Hermit continues, ¡°Now since we only have a limited amount of time, we will force some of your innate abilities to awaken. Now I am sure you are wondering, how? Very simple, a Life and Death scenario!¡±

    Wren¡¯s face darkens at Hermits perverted face as he says those words. ¡°Sicko,¡± Wren thought in her mind as she confirmed Hermit¡¯s fetish. According to the girls of the brothel this man would clearly fit the category as the type of patron who enjoys machoistic tendencies and is clearly classified as an S!

    Hermit has no idea of Wren¡¯s inner thoughts as he says, ¡°Now there are some innate abilities that need not be forced such as bloodline magic. If you did indeed inherit them, they will naturally awaken on their own within the next three years. To force them otherwise will not only weaken your body but may cause you to even die as your young body will not be able to handle the sheer strain.¡±

    Wren does not react in shock as she clearly recalled the toll the blood magic had on her father, before his death. Wren grimaces and says, ¡°I understand that fact very well. And though I am eager for power I am not that eager to plunge to an early death.¡±

    Hermit blinks in surprise at the mature response. ¡°Now, then let¡¯s first start off by testing your vampiric heritage.¡± Wren¡¯s face wilts as Hermit swiftly adds, ¡°For now, I just want to see what you may have inherited.¡±

    Placing his hand on Wren¡¯s forehead, Hermit says, ¡°Hmm, you didn¡¯t inherit much from your vampiric heritage if not actual weaknesses. I¡¯m sure you already know, but you have a natural talent for mage craft and part of that talent steams from the vampirism side that gifted you the non-chant magic ability. Other than an innate resistance to mental, charm, and illusion¡¯s, you did not inherit any of the abilities for charm nor for mind control, but you did inherit illusion magic.

    Also, there are two unusual unawake abilities that I can sense Levitation and Camouflage. Levitation won¡¯t be able to make you fly, but you will able to walk on the ground without leaving footsteps and be able to glide from area to area. As for Camouflage, it enables one to erase one¡¯s presence including one¡¯s heartbeat, breathing and scent. However, I must say, the amount of weakness you gained is quite severe when it comes to light and sun magic. I can safely assume that the brightest part of the day hurts your eyes and burns your skin quite a bit, am I correct?¡±

    Wren nods in reply as Hermit sighs, ¡°Well, at least you didn¡¯t get a penchant for blood, that¡¯s always the worst. Any who, let¡¯s see what else that we have here?¡± Hermit continues to examine Wren and finds the usual unique Ogre Clan Head lineage, immense strength. Though unlike regular Ogres Wren¡¯s strength would become monstrous as she grew. In the olden times, Ogre Clan heads were said to be able to crush even mountains. Who knew, maybe, with time that would prove true.

    Hermit brows furrow at sensing the corrupted carrier trait that signaled blood magic. He had earnestly hoped that was not the case, but Wren was rather unfortunate in his eyes. Half Blood-Elves almost always went mad, but maybe, whatever anomaly in her father¡¯s blood that enabled him to maintain his sanity would have been passed down to her. And if so, there was a very small chance that Wren would retain her sanity. For now, all Hermit could do was train her in hopes of the best.

 *Chapter 7 - Exit

    Wren impatiently asks, ¡°Is there anything else?¡±

    Hermit removes his hand and says, ¡°For the ogre side, I am sure you are already aware of the immense hunger and immense strength of the Ogre. There is a small talent for nature magic, but that merely implies that you will thrive in a forest and have a green thumb. Other than a general weakness towards Fire Magic, you didn¡¯t gain any other weakness from that side. And naturally, of course, the Ogre Clan Head ability, but you already know that. Although, interestingly enough, your immense strength is further augmented by the Frost Giant lineage.¡±

    Hermit paused and glances down at Wren who does not look shocked by the news. Hermit clears his throat and says, ¡°Your other half of talent for magic comes from Frost Giant lineage and naturally your talent for water and ice magic. Normally, there would be a weakness from earth magic, but the ogre side tempered that weakness away. Other than a talent for swimming and fishing, there isn¡¯t any other loss or gain.¡±

    ¡°Did I inherit blood magic as well?¡± Wren asked.

    Hermit purposefully does not reply and claps his hands to his face. Wren instinctively takes a step back from Hermit, could it be that Hermit finally lost it? Wren¡¯s face darkens as Hermit smiles his eerie perverted smile at her. ¡°Pervert,¡± Wren mumbled under her breath.

    Hermit triumphantly says, "Now my student," only pausing to savor the words.

    ¡°This idiot probably has never taught anyone,¡± Wren rather disillusioned thought to herself. ¡°I who grew up in a brothel should feel ashamed of falling prey to the schemes of such a terrible conman.¡±

    Hermit cheerfully continues, "As I was saying based on your heritage, current age, and time that we have let¡¯s start with of illusions. It should come naturally to you given your lineage. Now, the easiest way to learn is to cast an illusion of yourself much like a mirror image that mimics your actions. And naturally the best way to learn is to practice casting an illusion, while running for one owns life."

    Wren grumbles, ¡°As expected of an ultra-S!¡±

    "It¡¯s really simple really, you run, I chase, but if I catch you I¡¯ll just chop off a limb,¡± Hermit happily said as he waves a broadsword that wasn¡¯t there a second ago.

    Ignoring the magical feat, Wren considers her options as Hermit adds, "In the spirit of fairness, I''m giving you a one-minute head start-!" Before Hermit has finished, Wren has already run off leaving him the dust.

    As she runs, Wren finally understands why Hermit didn¡¯t have any students, who could survive that lunatic? One would have to be insane to benefit from having a teacher like him. But what did that say about herself? Ignoring that last question, Wren stretches her senses to access her magic pool within herself.

    Breathing in and out, Wren tires to imagine extending a string from her magic pool to begin to create an image of herself. Hearing footsteps behind her, the string instantly falters in reply. Wren hurriedly calms her emotions and tries again as the footsteps get closer causing her heartbeat to rise. Hearing the sound of a blade moving, Wren leaps to the side but is unable to fully dodge as the blade cleanly slices off her hand.

    Ignoring the fiery pain, Wren continues to run as she hears Hermit stop behind her. This madman must clearly be a murderer on the run! Or that of a pervert! Wren was personally inclining towards the second option as her arm burns in pain as her hand regenerates.

    Not bothering to glance back lest she slow down or trip, Wren once more starts again. This time the string of magic extends further and begins to form a shape. Footsteps cause the string to wobble, but digging her nails into her palms, Wren steadies her heart as the illusion continues to roughly form.

    Wren hadn¡¯t noticed she had unconsciously slowed down in her run to stabilize the illusion. With ease, Hermit caught up and this time viciously aimed for below the knee. With a painful grunt, Wren falls to the ground as everything below her right knee burns, which should be impossible as it was gone.

    Biting her lip, Wren crawls to feet and stands as she waits for her leg to regenerate. Hermit innocently whistles and says, ¡°I¡¯ll give you an extra minute since you need to regrow your leg.¡±

    Wren glares and doesn¡¯t say anything as Hermit tries to make small talk, ¡°So, how¡¯s it going?¡± Wren snorts as Hermit sagely says, ¡°Not well, eh? Do you want a clue?¡±

    Wren has the urge to spit, but instead turns her head away to ignore Hermit. Hermit eyes dull as he says, ¡°Fine, have it your way, I was just trying to help.¡±

    Wren really resists the urge to spit and thankfully is saved by leg finished regenerating. Shoeless, Wren hops over to her chopped off leg and removes the boot before sticking it back on. Without a word, Wren scurries away leaving Hermit to quietly hum to himself.

    This routine continued for three straight days other than the momentarily pause to eat and sleep at night. The worst part of the situation was that Hermit made Wren gather her strewn limbs across the valley and then throw them into the fire pit. Needless to say, Wren wasn¡¯t very hungry thanks to the smell of her own burning flesh. Though Wren had the distinct feeling that if she hadn¡¯t Hermit might just make a stew using her limbs as the main dish.

    On the bright side, Wren¡¯s speed and reactions had improved as her levitation magic had awoken. Though Wren couldn¡¯t do much beside glide, but combined with running, Wren could traverse the valley faster and more smoothly than ever. This unexpected change had caused Hermit to use some of his real strength to catch her, which clearly showed as his chopping had become more violent and brutal only aiming for her legs.

    On the 4<sup>th</sup> day Wren was reaching her limit, but she had yet to break under the cruel training regime. Having become numb at this point, Wren no longer panicked upon hearing Hermit approach and rather welcomed it as form of incentive to herself. Either she won, or he did!

    Blocking all sounds and distractions Wren traces the image of her body in her mind. The extending tendril from her magic pool wills a shape into existence. Wren feels power being pulled out of her pool for it only falter and slow down to a trickle in the form of a stream as the only connection to the illusion. Frowning, Wren wonders if she failed as she hears the pit-a-patter next to her. Sighing dejectedly at the pervert having caught to her, Wren turns her head to the side.

    Wren almost chokes at failing to see Hermit and instead sees herself. Wren almost trips as she comes to a stop and stares at the illusion that copies her. Hiding her joy, Wren snips the string of magic between them as the illusion fades away into nothing. Wren turns towards the Hermit and is unable to hide a smirk at seeing the dejection on his face.

    Hermit rather resigned lowers his sword and dejectedly says, "Congratulations are in order. After tomorrow, you can leave, but first let¡¯s have dinner."

    Wren thanks her lucky stars at finally escaping the evil grasp of the perverted Hermit. Thankfully she would never have to see the perverted Hermit again after tomorrow! Though if Wren were to be perfectly honest, she would miss Hermit¡¯s cooking for Hermit was an excellent cook.

    Hermit on the other hand is rather impressed with the scene that just occurred. To be honest, Hermit knew he had vastly underestimated the little ogre clan head. Considering, the child¡¯s talent for magic, Wren should have easily produced an illusion within the first day. And yet, Wren had not.

    In the end the little ogre clan head had suppressed all his expectations by creating a with substance. In other words, rather than just being an illusion, the illusion had become real to the extent of feeling real to the senses. Such a powerful skill is difficult to learn for even powerful wizards and very few ever mastered it. It truly was an incredible skill that allowed the user to create a copy of oneself in battle that would unleash the same amount of damage but would receive zero damage and just disperse at the attack.

    Hermit smiles ruefully to himself as they arrive at the cottage and he hurriedly moves to check on the shimmering pot that promises a wonderful dinner. Satisfied, Hermit sets the table and serves the meal.

    After dinner, the two sits next to fire pit until Hermit reaches over and pats Wren on the head. Wren has the urge to bite the pervert¡¯s hand but decides not to lest she catch something foul. Wren¡¯s disdain must have leaked, because Hermit quickly retracted his hand back.

    Hermit muses, ¡°Kid, you''ve surprised me. And you know, I''m almost never surprised."

    Wren glares at Hermit and thinks, ¡°Well, no, duh. With zero knowledge while being chased it is indeed a miracle that I was successful under those infernal conditions!¡± Wren privately makes note to avoid hermit-like characters in the future.

    The fire pit crackles and silence once more filled the air until Hermit tentatively asks, "What do you think of your father, Wren?"

    Wren smiles fondly into the fire and sincerely says, "Father was the best father I could have ever asked for! Not only did father love me despite the unfortunate circumstance of my birth, he never once complained, and treated me as his most precious treasure.¡±

    Wren¡¯s smile widens as she giggles, ¡°You know he was a shady character in his own way. Father was quite mischievous and famous for pulling pranks if you got on his wrong side. He was quite creative too as he never once got caught.

    I remember a time, when I was still very small I had snuck into the kitchen. Now I knew I shouldn¡¯t have but I wanted a snack. To my surprise, I found that the high cabinet was left unlocked and being the curious child that I was I went for the and investigated. To my utter delight, the cabinet was full of sweets.

    Now, Father regulated how many sweets I was allowed to eat as too many would be bad for me. But naturally I was a child and against all odds, I ate every single one of the sweets in the cabinet. Full, I waddled out, but was truck with fear at hearing footsteps coming to investigate. I fearfully jiggled back upstairs and hid under the bed.

    Soon shouts of anger could be heard from downstairs. Knowing the culprit responsible, Father found me hiding under the bed and pulled me into his arms. Father gently cleaned my face and hands of the sticky sweets only asking that I never do so again. After putting me down for a nap, Father confessed he was responsible and was punished by the Madam.

    Oh, I¡¯m certain the Madam suspected it had been me. And the next time she saw me, the Madam quite pointedly threatened me. Now father had watched the Madam do so and did not take kindly to that. And so, as usual, Father made a private note and plotted his next scheme.

    Not long after the Madam was entertaining several important guests in her parlor. As the house was busy attending the guests, Father snuck down into the kitchen and layered the fine tea leaves to be served with a thin layer of non-colored powder. By all rights, Father should have been spotted, but yet not only was he successful, but he wasn¡¯t even seen by the kitchen staff.

    Well, as you can imagine, once the tea was prepared and served not long after the guests stomachs began to rumble and tumble. The guests literally fled to the restrooms including the madam and were unable to leave the vicinity for several hours. After that, these privileged guests never returned to the house. Though the Madam naturally suspected father, she was unable to pin the blame on him nor much less discover how he would even do so.¡±

    Hermit wipes the tears from his face as he roars with laughter. "Your father sounds like an interesting man. I would have loved to have met him. I am sure we could have been great friends,¡± Hermit breathlessly said.

    Wren turns green at Hermits words and privately thanks the heavens for the kindness in not doing so. She could only imagine the state of chaos and destruction the world be in due to them. If Fayne, the Fallen, was unable to destroy the world; she was certain that Hermit and her father would have finished the task.

    Hermit glances up at the dark cavern sky and says, "Wren, did you know that you are the last clan head left with the ancient lineage in the entire world?" Wren¡¯s eyes widen in surprise at the comment.

    "I suppose you don¡¯t realize just how rare you are. And though there are plenty of ogre clan head''s left in the world none of which carry the ancient lineage. The reason being that a thousand years ago during the last elf and ogre war, the last ogre clan heads with such attributes were killed. The elves and humans in a combined effort annihilated any potential carriers of the ancient lineage. I had thought that the bloodline was extinct and yet her you are."

    Wren looks into the fire with a proud gaze and says, ¡°It thanks to my ancestor an ancient clan head who fled to the far north and joined an ancient matriarchal Frost Giant village. Thanks to our ancestors our entire village were the carriers of both lineages, but now, they¡¯re gone.

    You know I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll ever understand humans. Our village lived in peace with the neighboring human village and we never raided their women. And yet the adventurers came and destroyed the village for no apparent reason other than for their measly pride.

    Father and I were all that was left and now, just me-.¡±

    Hermit is quiet as he sincerely says, ¡°Sometimes life is without any good answers for the terrible things people do too each other. But still, that is no reason to give now is it?¡±

    Wren snaps back, ¡°Of course not.¡±

    Hiding a rueful grin Hermit changes the subject, ¡°Do you know that in ancient times the Ogre Clan Head ability was called, God Eater? Quite interesting, don¡¯t you think?

    ¡°Not really,¡± Wren replied with a shrug.

    Genuine surprise and puzzlement are reflected on Hermits face. "Why would you say that?" Hermit asked.

    "I think it would be terrible thing to be a god. Infinite power, but never any challenges, that kind of life certainly would be very boring. Besides living forever seems exhausting and I want to see father again on the other side,¡± Wren truthfully answered.

    Hermit laughs so hard that he rolls off the stone he is sitting on and onto the dusty ground. Hermit¡¯s mad cackles fill the air and echo causing Wren to edge away. Though she knew he was a pervert, she hadn¡¯t thought he was into self-affliction as well. Perverts were just the worst!A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    Finally, Hermit pulls himself back onto the seat with a great gasp, still twitching with unspoken laughter. After one or two failed attempts, Hermit finally calms himself though his voice holds a quiver of laughter. ¡°Do you know that in all my years of existence, you are the first to say that they pity a god for being a god? Since the dawn of time, countless men and women have requested the power of the gods for an infinite number of reasons: power, lust, wealth, envy, love, greed, vengeance, etc. And yet, you just may be right in the end,¡± Hermit softly confessed.

    Hermit glances pensively at Wren and says, ¡°Is that the reason for your refusal of the golden pearl? Or are you possibly considering in asking for my aid in fulfilling thy vengeance?¡±

    Wren scorns Hermits suggestion as if she wanted anything from the pervert! Wren wouldn¡¯t touch anything given to her by Hermit with a ten-foot-pole! There was just no telling where his grimy hands had been and frankly she didn¡¯t want to know.

    ¡°Where is the satisfaction in seeking my vengeance with my own two hands if it is fulfilled by others? No, I refuse to take such a route. And besides the golden pearl promised me to become a legend among mankind. But I¡¯m an ogre and I have no intention of becoming mankind¡¯s savior. And between you and me, humans are much more trouble than they''re worth.¡±

    ¡°I knew you were one just full of surprises,¡± Hermit said with a smile. Glancing back at the fire, Hermit curiously asks, ¡°Well, what are your plans for the future?¡±

    ¡°Aside from vengeance, first, I¡¯m going to leave this blasted forest,¡± Wren vehemently said. ¡°After that, I will return to our clan¡¯s homeland and become stronger. And only then will I create a nation where ogres and other magical creatures can live in peace."

    Hermit eyes widen in surprise and envy at such an innocent dream. ¡°That is quite the ambitious dream,¡± Hermit said as eyes seem faraway. ¡°I would like to see such a sight once more,¡± Hermit quietly thought to himself.

    After some time, Hermit turns back towards Wren and teasingly says, "Who knew such big dreams were being held inside such a small body.¡±

    ¡°What is a dream if not life¡¯s aspiration?¡± Wren countered back.

    Hermit chuckles at the blunt response and says, ¡°You¡¯re certainly right.

    Seeing Hermit in a good mood, Wren pointedly asks, ¡°You never answered my question from the other day, did I inherit blood magic?¡±

    Hermit is gravely quiet for a moment causing Wren to wonder, if she shouldn¡¯t have asked? ¡°I don¡¯t know what is that you know about the Blood Elves, but Blood Elves almost never breed with non-eleven races. And the simple reason for that being is that it is forbidden,¡± Hermit replied.

    Wren furrows her brows at the candid response and further inquiries, ¡°And why is that?¡±

    ¡°It all ends and begins with the Fall,¡± Hermit answered as he gazed into the fire.

    ¡°Long ago, before the fall, when the elves still lived in harmony, the elves coexisted as one great nation and were only grouped together according to family. The five families distinguished themselves according to what ability had been granted to them by the benevolent Earth Goddess, Silvia.

    The Blood Elves, the loving healers with hair that shone like the sun from golden to crimson fiery red, golden eyes, and golden skin.

    The High Elves, the clever keepers of knowledge. Their hair ranged from dark to fair hair as their eyes that came in a slew of colors and pale skin the color of freshly made cream.

    The Dark Elves, the ever curious, inventive craftsmen. Their hair varied from dark to darker hues with eyes the color of the gems of the earth with warm beige colored skin.

    The Light Elves, the gentle priests and teachers of the Goddess Silvia. Their hair was always light colored with the palest of skin color and eyes the color of all the shades of the sky.

    And, the Wood Elves, the guardians and protectors of the Goddess Silvia. Loved by nature, their skin ranged in all the shades of the earth with eyes that were always a variety of green.

    During the fall, Fayne the Fallen sent his demonic minions into the elven lands and stole many young eleven children. From these stolen children the vampires, ghouls, gargoyles, and many more monstrous beings were born. The elves were broken hearted and wept at their loss. With broken hearts, the elves were called to arms and heeded the call of the Gods as they marched to war.

    After the fall, the anger yet remained and the five Elven families came to blame each other for their tragic loss. Not long after each family separated and kept to their own land except for the High Elves and Blood Elves. These two families were still largely at peace and still bore each other good will. With the passing of time tension slowly lessened among the families as they renewed their trade once again. The world followed in these same steps as the people of the grew and incredible empires arose creating marvels that have never been seen since then.

    And then came the day of the first of the Fallen Apostles, Taiga, the Destroyer arose. The terrible day, Eternal Frost was cast a third of the world¡¯s population would die from sickness and starvation within days. Once more the Chosen Champions sent out the call and many young elves arose to heed the call. Even among the elves there was pride and when the young male elves of the other families sneered at the gentle, healing Blood Elves, the pride of the Blood Elves was terribly hurt.

    You see the reason for the name of Blood Elves is that the Blood Elves used blood magic to heal the wounds of others by using their own blood as healing instruments. And so, believing that he could change them being view as weak, a na?ve youth by the name of Adalheid began to do just that. In secret, Adalheid, and his twin sister, Ariadre began to train by absorbing the blood of animals until they were able to use their blood as weapons. Adalheid created blades from blood, while Ariadre used her blood to cast spells. Unknowingly this was the birth of the two infamous blood wielding blood lineages.

    Seeing themselves growing stronger and full of youthful confidence, Adalheid and Ariadre set out for the frozen north. Less than a league from the front line, Adalheid and Ariadre came across a terrible scene of soldiers wading through pools of blood to viciously tear at each other as they stepped over fallen comrades to attack. A scene so terrible that even the vultures and crows of the sky dared not near.

    Horrified, Adalheid and Ariadre were unable to stomach the horrifying scene and turned away. Too late, they realized that this was not the glorious scene of battle which was sung in the bard¡¯s songs, but a grotesque thing that warped the mind. The two turned to flee, when a wounded wizard called out to them for aid. The two healers unable to turn away naturally healed the wizard as the wizard begged them to aid the wounded on the battlefield. Unconvinced, Adalheid and Ariadre turned to leave, but the wizard pleaded with them again. In attempt to convince them to stay the wizard offered a self-created potion that promised to destroy their fear and grant them boundless courage. All the wizard asked in return was that they would remain on the battlefield and aid the wounded.

    The twin¡¯s tender hearts were moved by the wizard¡¯s request and so, the twins accepted the wizard¡¯s proposal and drank the unknown potion. The potion worked quite efficiently as promised, but perhaps too well. With ease the twins healed as they traversed the battlefield, but a strange thirst began to grow in their hearts. Before the twins knew it, they were using the skills which they had self-created as they mercilessly attacked the enemy and grew stronger with each fallen corpse. Thanks to the twin¡¯s actions that day for the first time the forces of Taiga, the Destroyer were successfully pushed back.

    Overjoyed at being more than just nursemaids for the wounded, Adalheid and Ariadre returned to the wizard and begged for potions. The wizard gladly gave them more, before gathering with his comrades. Thrilled, Adalheid and Ariadre requested the aid of dragons to return home. The dragon relented and within a day¡¯s time, the twins returned to them to reveal the true might of the Blood Elves.

    Naturally the entire Blood Elf family was overjoyed and watered down the potion to share with the entire family. Filled with pride many young Blood Elves set out to battle and with the aid of the dragons arrived within a day to aid. The allied armies were being pushed back and in timely fashion the blood elves were led into battle by Adalheid and Ariadre.

    The Blood Elves all too easily tore into their enemies. But a terrible thing began to occur as the battle progressed the Blood Elves on the battlefield laughed in open delight at the slaughter as they bathed in the enemies¡¯ blood. The ally¡¯s armies grew sick as they watched the sickening actions of the Blood Elves. It became so much so that the Chosen Champions were forced to use their great powers to halt the maddened Blood Elves in their tracks.

    Not long after the Blood Elves came to their senses and with gut-wrenching horror began to recall the sickening atrocities they had committed. Some of the Blood Elves went mad in that very instant unable to withstand their actions and slit their own throats rather than live. Appalled and full of regrets, Adalheid and Ariadre desperately sought out the wizard for the antidote. But twas not to be as the wizards had been slain during the raging battle.

    With the defeat of Taiga, the Blood Elves were forced to return home was Adalheid and Ariadre were forced to explain that the gift once seen as a blessing was a curse. But what forced them to leave was the unruly display of maddened anger that almost killed a High Elven child. Fearing for the safety of their brethren the High Elves, the Blood Elves sadly separated themselves in hopes of finding a cure.

    That wasn¡¯t the only thing that changed that day. Despite being gifted healer¡¯s, the Blood Elves were shunned due to their now infamous uncontrolled rage and bloodthirst. This would lead to countless experiments, but no would lead to success. Forced to a dead end, the Blood Elves could only strictly train themselves and their offspring to control their emotions.

    However, this proved impossible for some and as such without hesitation were put down. A portion of the Blood Elves did not agree with this violent action of the Elders and chose to leave. One such Blood elf went out into the world and fell in love and wed a Werewolf. A child was born and was named, Dante. With time Dante waxed strong and was an utter delight to his family. But on his 12<sup>th</sup> birthday, the blood magic within Dante awoke. On that day Dante died, and a beast was born, one that hungered only for blood. Dante not only slaughtered his entire family but his penchant for blood was limitless as he slaughtered villager after village.

    The Blood Elf hunters retrieved the beast and returned to the Blood Elves compound. The Elders used all their might but were unable to bring the boy¡¯s mind for all that was left was a mindless beast. Still filled with hope, the elders brought the boy before the High Elves in hope of a solution. The High Elves agreed that nothing could be done, the Blood Elves thanked their brethren before going on their way. Left with no other choice, they peaceful slew the boy and buried him with their dead.

    From then on, mating with a non-blood elf became a forbidden covenant. Any half blood-elf found would be instantly killed or drowned at birth. And any child that did somehow escape the watchful eye of the Blood Elves generally never survives infancy or always mad in their youth and were killed,¡± Hermit said.

    Hermit solemnly gazes into Wren¡¯s eyes and says, ¡°And now that you know the truth, do you still want to know if you are a carrier? Because there is no guarantee that the fluke that happened with your father will occur to you as well.¡±

    Wren purses her lips in thought and says, ¡°You may be right, but even so, I¡¯d rather be prepared than be left unprepared.¡±

    Hermit sighs and says, ¡°Yes, you are a carrier as well. However, don¡¯t get your hopes up unlike your father, your bloodline is much more volatile than his.¡±

    Wren tilts her head in conclusion and says, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t I inherit the same blood magic as father?¡±

    ¡°Normally, yes, but your father was a dual carrier. I¡¯m not sure who his sire was, but his sire was the product of both blood lines,¡± Hermit pensively said. ¡°In one manner, the spell bloodline is perfect for you as you are a talented mage. But on the other hand, the spell bloodline is twice as dangerous because of the explosive energy found within it.

    You see normal non-lineage Blood Elves become berserkers on the battlefield and the more blood that is strewn the stronger they become. That is why Blood Elves are infamously known for becoming mad on the battlefield.

    However, the descendants of Adalheid and Ariadre are different. The battle bloodline of Adalheid grants his descendants the ability to morph their blood into weapons such as your father¡¯s blood whips. On the other hand, the spell bloodline of Ariadre is quite different as it is used to cast explosive curses and spells. The requirement needed to use blood curses is to have a calm heart, but how is that possible if that is the curse of the Blood Elves? Naturally, not many descendants ever live to adulthood.¡±

    Wren is quiet for a moment and bluntly asks, ¡°How much time do I have?¡±

    ¡°Normally I would say, 3 to 5 years, but your Ogre lineage is causing the spell bloodline to awaken earlier. I give you a year with the possibility of an early awakening,¡± Hermit regretfully said.

    ¡°A year, huh? I can work with that,¡± Wren regretfully said. She had hoped for much more time, but she would do her best with the time she was given. Wren pointedly gazes at Hermit and says, ¡°But why did you train me, if you don¡¯t expect me to make survive?¡±

    Hermit shrugs and replies, ¡°Maybe, I¡¯m hoping you will surprise me again. Or maybe, I¡¯m just foolish that way. Either way, I think it would be nice if you could prove me wrong.¡±

    Wren ruefully smiles as Hermit rubs his nose and says, ¡°Anyway, it¡¯s getting late and you have a bright and early morning tomorrow if you want to reach the south exit tunnel.¡±

    Wren yawns in agreement as Hermit reaches over and gently pats her head once. "Off to bed with you. You have a long journey ahead of you," Hermit kindly suggested.

    Wren sleepily nods her head and tucks into bed. Despite her mind ablaze with everything her exhaustion wins. After all, this would be the last night she would sleep under a roof for some time to come, she might as well enjoy it.

    Morning comes, and Wren rubs her eyes awake, before purposefully getting out of bed. Once packed and ready, Wren finds that her travel bags are a big heavier than before. Wren peeks inside to find food supplies and other small items inside. Wren pales with a shudder, before hastily closing her bag shut and heading out towards the fire pit.

    With his back turned towards Wren, Hermit serves breakfast and says, ¡°I apologize for opening your bags without your permission, but I thought you might need a few things to go on your way.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Wren crisply replied. Personally, Wren suspected Hermit had been wanting to search her bag to steal her panties. And naturally to cover up his crime, Hermit acted out with kindness. One could argue otherwise, but Hermit¡¯s perverted grin proved Wren¡¯s concerns weren¡¯t without foundation. Of course, Hermit would cough out blood if he knew Wren¡¯s thoughts, but what he didn¡¯t know couldn¡¯t hurt him!

    Sitting down as far way from Hermit, Wren swiftly stuffs her mouth with the cooked egg. Between the two of the, the breakfast table is left devoid of crumbs. Finished, Wren politely wipes her mouth and rises to her feet. Wren with great relief to be on her way adjusts her travel bags on her back, before politely bowing forward and saying, ¡°Thank you for everything, please take care.¡±

    Wren turns to walk away, before pausing to look back and say, ¡°Hey Hermit, you never did tell me your actual name?¡±

    Hermit winks at Wren causing Wren to shiver at the perverted action. ¡°I knew it, he¡¯s a pedophile!¡± Wren thought as she stepped back.

    Wren swiftly scrambles away to only faintly hear, ¡°My name is Dathan.¡± Wren almost stumbles at the name and snorts to herself as she shakes her head. ¡°I knew he was crazy, but to call himself after the God of Life and the Void, isn¡¯t he afraid of being accused of blasphemy?¡± Wren mutters to herself.

    Wren pauses and turns back to say, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of being struck down by the gods?¡± The hair on Wren¡¯s neck stand up to find that the valley behind her is empty. There is no cottage, burning fire pit nor much less the figure of Hermit. Quiet,

    ¡°Did I meet a ghost?¡± Wren shakily whispered, before making the sign of wandering off evil. Turning on her heels, Wren runs as fast as she can too put distance between her and the haunted valley. It wasn¡¯t to say she was afraid of ghosts, it¡¯s just how do you fight and kill something you can¡¯t touch!? Besides, in Wren¡¯s point of view, ghosts are just an unnatural phenomenon! Frankly speaking, the dead should just stay dead!

    Out of breath, Wren finally comes to a halt upon reaching the south exit. Huffing in relief at the damp tunnel, Wren does not hesitate to enter the unknown tunnel in her haste to leave the haunted valley behind her. Wren even almost kisses the tunnel as the valley disappears behind around the bend.

    Feeling much better Wren continues down the moist tunnel that becomes narrower and narrower until she is unable to continue to move forward. A quarter of a candle-mark later, Wren is forced to turn on her side and begins to scuttle sideways as the cave becomes muskier. Just when Wren was beginning to despair a waft of fresh air passes overhead.

    Thrilled, Wren moves forward to find small bursts of sun rays peeking through cracks in the ground overhead. With a painful grunt, Wren squeezes past a large mossy boulder at the exit to finally emerge into the glorious sunlight.

    In a rare sunny day, the Misty Woods seem inviting as Wren throws herself onto the green grass and rolls around on it. Minutes later rather undignified looking, Wren has twigs and dead leaves in her hair. Smiling happily Wren stares at the open sky until her stomach grumbles that enough is enough.

    With a sigh, Wren sits up and opens her travel bags. Wren reaches for one of the provisions given to her to only freeze at the questionable looking green bread. Wren eyes the bread from every direction, before finally gaining the courage to take a bite out of it. ¡°I mean, it¡¯s a physical bread, right? I mean, I won¡¯t turn into a ghost if I eat this, right?¡± Wren uneasily muttered to herself.

    After some deliberation, Wren finally bites into the bread. Slowly chewing it in her mouth, Wren finds that the loaf of bread is dry and tasteless, but edible. Finished, Wren washes down the bread with a swig of water trying not to think about how old the bread was and the fact that it belonged to a perverted ghost. ¡°Is perversion contagious?¡± Wren sickly wondered to herself. ¡°I certainly hope not!¡±

    Wren quickly rises to her feet and shakes the leaves and twigs out of her hair. Putting her travel bags back on, Wren heads north as suggested by Hermit. Not long after, Wren finds the path and studies her map against the current path mark. With a pleased expression, Wren finds that she is only four days out from the Tessa Mountain Range.

    Wren can already see the great Mountain Range in the nearby distance with the exit of the Misty woods only two days¡¯ walk. Wren cradles her pendant and says, ¡°I¡¯m almost there, father.¡± Putting her map away, Wren eagerly presses forward so close to her goal.

 *Chapter 8 - The Hunt

    For the first time ever, Wren enjoys breathing the fresh air as she travels through the Misty Woods. Wren makes excellent time through the Misty Woods due to the bright sunlight that traverses the trees. Quite cheered at the prospect of exiting a day or two earlier, Wren begins to softly hum her father¡¯s favorite lullaby that he sung to her as a small child.

    ¡°Now fall off to sleep, among the flowers

    that bloom in spring,

    And I prayed, my hand and

    yours, forever-

    be linked,

    That I may always,

    kiss-

    the hands

    I hold dear,

    And I''ll sing you

    to sleep,

    and I''ll sit

    here besides you.

    Now fall off to sleep, among the flowers

    that bloom in spring,

    And I prayed

    My hand and

    yours, forever-

    be linked,

    When the night-

    is far from,

    over--come.

    Let''s offer a prayer

    thus oh,

    O''God, I beg,

    sparest, my child

    from fear nor sorrow-

    Now fall off to sleep, among the flowers

    that bloom in spring,

    And I prayed

    My hand and

    yours, forever-

    be linked,

    on the night when the shining

    you ,

    came-- to this ashen world

    I never

    cease, to pray, day,

    comes again,

    May you rise, to find

    a new-

    days sun,

    Now fall off to sleep, among the flowers

    that bloom in spring,

    And I prayed

    My hand and

    yours, forever-

    be linked.

    That I may always,

    kiss-

    the hands

    I hold dear,

    And I''ll sing you

    to sleep,

    and I''ll sit

    here besides you.¡±

    Abruptly, a twig snaps causing Wren to dart off the road into a large shrub. Wren stills her breath and intently listens for nearby sounds as she peers through the thick shrubbery leaves. Wren almost sighs as she mutters to herself, ¡°I knew my luck was to good be true!¡±

    The sound of several footsteps can soon be heard as rapid whispering can be heard among the owners. The groups slowed down and approaches the area where Wren was last seen. Wren crouches against the ground causing a long-legged spider to crawl over her hand and out of sight. From her view point, Wren can count six pair of dusty worn boots.

    A raggedy-bearded man says, "I swear by my dead mother''s grave that I just saw a girl walking down dis here road."

    A yellowed-teeth man spits onto the dirt road and disbelieving says, "Swear by thy dead mother''s grave, eh? Ya don''t even know who the wench was.¡±

    The raggedy-bearded man grabs for yellow-teethes dirty and drags him towards him. "Ya calling me liar! I know what my two eyes saw, and it was some girl child walking on dis ''ere yonder road," he indignantly roared.

    Yellow-teeth provocatively blows his foul breath into raggedy-bearded man''s face. The raggedy-bearded man pulls his face away in disgust. "Well, I reckon I am calling ye a liar. ''Em foul drinks of yours, ''ave finally addled ya mind. Ye can''t even, clearly tell what ye see anymore," yellow-teeth sneered back.

    The raggedy-bearded man angrily raises his fist and says, "Why I aught''a break ya scrawny-."

    "Enough!" Said, a tall brawny man as he effortlessly separates the two. ¡°Stop wasting our time. Did ya see a girl or not?" The brawny man demanded to know.

    Yellow-teeth gloatingly grins at the raggedy-bearded man, who takes a threatening step towards yellow teeth, but stops shortly thereafter at the brawny man''s stern gaze. The raggedy-bearded man rubs his nose with his finger and looks firmly at the brawny man. "I swear to ya, chief, by all the God''s; that I saw a girl on ''dis here yonder road," he vehemently swore.

    The brawny leader pursed his lips at raggedy-bearded man''s words. "The girl that ya saw, could be one of them cursed apparitions. But if ya saw right, it could be a living, breathing girl. And we have nothing to lose, but everything to gain, if ya''re right,¡± the brawny leader explained.

    The men grin at their leader¡¯s words as the brawny leader firmly says, "Spread out men and see if we can find any sign of which direction the girl went." The men quickly spread out and begin to search among the shrubbery and trees for any traces of a girl fleeing into the woods.

    Wren¡¯s eyes darken with anger at their foul intentions and remains still as possible. Wren¡¯s heart twists with rage and does not pound in fear causing Wren to frown. Since when did she get so angry so easily?

    ¡°I thought that Hermit said I had a year left? Figures, I should have never trusted that perverted ghost¡¯s words!¡± Wren privately grumbled to herself as she moved into a crouching position ready to run.

    Unsatisfied at the burning sense of suppressed anger, Wren remembers the technique her father used to whisper to her. ¡°Remember to much anger is bad, so be as cold and deadly as a Frost Giant,¡± Zarris whispered.

    Wren envisions the icy chill of her ice magic and empties her mind of any remaining thoughts. Much like a river icing over, a cold sense of purpose fills her until the roaring river of emotion is frozen over. Wren¡¯s eyes glow icy blue with an eerie calm that hinted at a ruthless will to live at any cost. With her anger being restrained by the Frost Giant¡¯s icy coldness, Wren readies her spells as the band of men methodically near her in their search.

    Yellow-teeth plunges his hands into a nearby shrubbery blindly searching as Wren pulls back to avoid his grimy, pawing hands. Yellow-teeth scratches his head in puzzlement until a brilliant idea strikes. Yellow-teeth plunges his head into the shrub to only halt a hands breath away from Wren¡¯s.

    The two gazed into each other¡¯s eyes as his stank breath is blown into Wren¡¯s face. Wren wrinkles her nose as he gleefully whispers, "Found ya." Yellow-teeth is about to announce his glorious achievement, when Wren stuffs a pile of muck and leaves into his gaping mouth. Yellow-teeth chokes and falls back onto his backside as he frantically claws at his mouth. Using this opportunity, Wren darts out of the shrubbery and into the woods.

    Meanwhile, Yellow-teeth pants on all fours and spits out the encrusted muck. The raggedy-bearded man gasps in laughter at yellow-teethes antics and gloatingly says, ¡°Didn''t I tell ya, I saw her." The brawny leader thumps the raggedy-bearded man on the back and says, ¡°Well ya were right. So, once we get her back to the cave, I''ll reward ya."

    The raggedy-bearded man gratefully says, "Thankee thee kindly, chief, for ya''re consideration. I am most obliged.¡± After all, the raggedy-bearded man hadn''t seen a woman in many months and such a treat would be a well and much deserved indulgence. But most of all he would especially enjoy, the looks of envy from his comrades. Because very rarely did the Chief, ever allow any of the men to touch the merchandise for fear of damaging the goods.

    Yellow-teeth snarls to his feet and roars, "I swear, I''ll get dat little bitch, if it''s the last thing I do!"

    Before Yellow-teeth can run off, the brawny leader confidently says, "We''ll split up into pairs and herd the girl towards the waterfall to corner her there.¡± The men nod in understanding and split into pairs each heading in a different direction.

    Wren scampers through the woods with the vivid image of the brawny man still brightly burning in her mind. The skin tingling felt on her skin with every word spoken told Wren that he was dangerous. Given that is the case then Wren only has one option to whittle away at her opponent¡¯s strength.

    Wren glances up at the beautiful sunlight and mutters, ¡°You¡¯re not helping!¡± Any other day, it would have been perfect except for today. With the clear sunlight, the men would easily be able to track her through the woods as they this area of the woods unlike her.

    Wren leaves enough of a fleeing trail as she leaps over bushes and fallen branches. Shrubs and small tree branches tear at her face and clothes, but Wren presses forward even running through a large spider web. Wren winces in disgust in hopes of not having a spider nestling in her hair.

    Keeping an eye on the ground for an unexpected hole lest she break her leg and lose precious time, Wren concentrate on summoning three illusions of herself. Successful, Wren stops in a clearing and motions to her illusion clones to leave in direction as nosily as possible. With the added instructions of hiding when needed and to separate the searching parties as far from each other as possible.

    The minute her illusions separate, Wren activates her levitation magic and is much more at ease at leaving zero footprints. Wren only pauses to select a suitable hiding spot a thick Fir tree with plenty of foliage to hide her. Wren is careful to not shake the tree as she climbs lest the newly fallen needles give her away. Wren comes to a halt mid-way as one or two small fir cones all to the ground.

    Certain that any higher would be cumbersome and possibly more trouble than it¡¯s worth, Wren settles down in a comfortable position. It was sad to say, but Wren had yet to master the vampiric ability, Camouflage as it had yet to awaken. For now, Wren could only do it old school and maintain her calm. Despite so, Wren has a nasty smile on her face as she keeps watch. For soon, the hunters would become the hunted.

    In preparation, Wren eases her dagger from her waist and carefully places the cold blade into her mouth. Wren carefully bites down on the dagger and shakes her head to confirm its firm hold. She truly hoped that it wouldn¡¯t take long for the first of the hunters to find her as illusion magic was quite strenuous on her magic pool. And it would be most terrible for Wren to find herself without magic during the night in the Misty Woods.

    But not long after, Wren hears rustling from nearby as expected. Wren¡¯s eyes gleam as the suppressed rage inside of her stirs, before forcefully being repressed. Normally, Wren would be afraid in such a situation, but after everything, what was a human in comparison to a giant squid or a ferocious monster or a perverted ghost? It wasn¡¯t as though she had never killed a living creature in her life and a human would be no different. That was at least what, Wren told herself.

    And yes, deep down inside, Wren knew that something would change the moment she killed one of her hunters. However, she didn¡¯t have a choice, because the alternative wasn¡¯t one that Wren could live with. Besides death isn¡¯t always a bad thing except for ghosts. All ghosts ought to be wiped out from existence!

    Shrubs and leaves are carelessly shoved aside as a large man nosily stomps his way past a particularly large Fir tree. The raggedy-bearded man had accidentally separated himself from his foolish partner, yellow-teeth. That way, if the Chief asked, he could always say it was just an accident.

    The raggedy-bearded man picks at his nose and imagens capturing the girl. The raggedy-bearded man dreamily grins at rubbing his triumph in yellow-teeth¡¯s face. Oh, how yellow-teeth would be jealous!

    Wrens heart soundlessly slides down the tree trunk and onto the dusty floor covered in needles. Her levitation magic keeps her from making a sound as she lands and creeps up behind the raggedy-bearded man. Wren soundlessly removes the dagger in her mouth as the dagger unusually feels heavy in her palm. Before raggedy-bearded man can ever notice her, Wren clamps her hand onto raggedy-bearded man¡¯s mouth and effortlessly slits his throat. Wren instantly let¡¯s go as the body of raggedy-bearded man slumps onto the ground.

    The ragged-bearded man tries to soundlessly plead as he uselessly presses his hands to the gaping wound in his neck. But the raggedy-bearded man is unable to make any sound other than choking gurgles. The raggedy-bearded man¡¯s hands grow weak and finally flutter limply onto the leaves.

    Wren numbly gazes at the corpse as a fleeting emotion twists through her heart and is forever gone. Without wasting any time, Wren bends down to wipe her blade on his clothes and almost chokes at the foul smell. ¡°When was the last time that he took a bath?¡± Wren sickly choked until the urge to vomit went away.

    A closer look would reveal that he hadn¡¯t seen a pair of clean clothes in years. Wren ignored the state of the corpse and sheathes her blade. Bending down and trying not to breath through her nose, Wren drags the foul-smelling corpse away by his boots and rolls the corpse under some large, leafy shrubbery.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    Wren¡¯s freezes at hearing movement in the nearby distance. Wren hurriedly kicks leaves over the bloody trail and hides with not a second to spare. Hiding in a thickly leafed Aspen tree, Wren watches and places the slightly damp blade in her mouth. Ignoring the metallic taste, Wren watches the loud, bumbling figure enter the clearing.

    The angry figure of yellow-teeth stomps through the woods. "Stupid git! He just had to run off, didn''t ya, shitty prick!" Yellow-teeth hissed. ¡°Ya dim-witted bastard ya better answer me, if ya know what''s good for ya! Where ya at?" Yellow-teeth roared as his voice echoes through the trees, before soundlessly fading away.

    Yellow teeth spit a yellowish glob onto the ground and impatiently waits for a response. Not hearing a response, yellow-teeth sulks and curses to himself. ¡°We should ¡®ave stayed in town, but no, Chief wanted to try our luck,¡± Yellow-teeth grumbled to himself.

    ¡°Dag nabbit, ya twisted bastard, answer me now!¡± Yellow-teeth roared into the woods. The only reply heard is the various odd creaks of the woods. Yellow teeth uneasily stepped back and made the sign of the ill omen. Despite having hunted in the Misty Woods for so many years, Yellow-teeth was still afraid. There was just something uncanny about the place.

    A soft-rustle in the distance causes yellow-teeth to yell in annoyance, ¡°I caught ya, ya weasel-faced bastard. Hurry up and come out, we gots a job to do!¡± Not hearing an immediate response, yellow-teeth angrily shouts, ¡°Ya bastard, enough with ya''re tricks! I now ya''re ''dere!" The rustling ceases once more and an uncanny stillness fills the forest.

    Glaring at where the rustling sounds originated from yellow-teeth irritably clears his throat and says, "Lookie ''ere ya miserable bastard, if ya don''t wanna come out dat''s fine! But ya we gotta get going to the waterfall''s a quarter mile from ''ere. Ya know the chief, will be pissed blue, beside himself, if we don''t follow his ''ere orders. And ya remember what he did to the last fellow who didn''t follow his ¡®ere orders. The chief ripped dat fellow''s teeth out, one by one! I reckon even ya''re not dat addled witted!"

    Yellow-teeth expectantly waits for the raggedy-bearded man to sullenly emerge from the bushes and trees. Throwing up his hands impatiently into the air, yellow-teeth mutters, "Fine if ye wanna play it dat way, ye can ya twittered-brain! Ya''re as good as dead, when the chief gets his hands on ya. Ya''re as good as a dead man walking! Heck, I''ll do ya''re ass a great favor, I''ll save the chief and ya the trouble and I''ll wring ya''re sorry excuse for a neck with my own, two hands!"

    ¡°A bitch, huh?¡± Wren recalled to herself what he had called her. Still, she had to thank him for his generous offer in providing her with important information. His most gracious information would make it that much easier for her, naturally, a private thank you are in order. And so, Wren patiently watches as yellow-teeth stomp his way past her current location, before soundlessly slithering back down.

    Yellow-teeth irately kicks a pile of leaves and small twigs into the air, but suddenly finds his foot slipping on something slippery. Throwing his arms wildly in the air, Yellow-teeth fights to regain his balance. Startled and out of breath, yellow-teeth curses quite loudly, "Ya cursed forest, ya''re still trying to get me! Well I ain''t letting ya!"

    Yellow-teeth narrow s his beady little eyes and glares murderously at the slippery pile of leaves. Thinking he had stepped into some animal feces, yellow-teeth furiously wiped his boot clean against the ground. But his actions were futile as this caused even more leaves to stick to the bottom of his worn boot sole.

    Furious at the clinging leaves, yellow-teeth kicked at the pile of leaves again. Out of breath, yellow-teeth watched in satisfaction the destruction of the leaf pile. Satisfied, yellow-teeth turns to leave until the drying pool of blood hidden on the ground caches his attention. The whites of Yellow-teeth eyes can be seen as his eyes dart about. "Enough ya bastard! Dis ''ere joke ya have just taken it too far! Dis ''ere is far enough!" Yellow-teeth stuttered.

    Uneasy Yellow-teeth steps back and snivels fearfully and weakly croaks, "Fine then, I''m leaving without ya''re miserable sorry ass! I ain''t taking the fall for your sorry actions!"

    Yellow-teeth ignores the eerie silence and stumbles back. ¡°I¡¯ll just get back on me own feet. Yea, I¡¯ll be alright,¡± Yellow-teeth thought to himself. After all, the chief would surely understand and be good with it.

    Yellow-teeth calms himself with the image of the glorious beauties he will be gorge himself on their return to town. Yellow-teeth leers at the bountiful willing females that would climb into his lap. Licking his lips, Yellow-teeth is lost in his fantasy and misses the appearance of his quarry appearing before him.

    Too late, the child¡¯s ghastly pale face looms in yellow-teeth eyes to reveal abnormally sharp teeth. Yellow-teeth sees far too late out of the corner of his eye the cold glint of a blade flashes toward him. Yellow-teeth fearfully falls back and grins in relief at having dodged. Glancing down at his nose at the small dagger, Yellow-teeth sneers at the pathetic failure. ¡°With such a large opening, ya still missed huh? Dis ¡®ere why womenfolk should stay out of men¡¯s things. Y¡¯all are only good for one thing for mating and making babies,¡± Yellow-teeth proudly thought to himself. ¡°Dat''s whatcha ya get for allowing females any sort of free will! Ya get females getting all upddiy and having them grand ideas. Dis ''ere little girl proved dat only place womenfolk belong is in the house and pleasing us men folk!¡±

    Yellow-teeth is interrupted by a painful cough to find himself spitting out something red and metallic tasting. Yellow-teeth numbly reaches up to touch his neck and feels a wet liquid on his fingers. With dread, Yellow-teeth feels a burning sensation at his throat and looks down at his hand. Drops of blood drip down his fingers as dread creeps into his lower belly.

    Heart-pounding the blood pumps rapidly through his body and up his neck. At the adrenaline spike, yellow-teeth¡¯s heart pumps blood rapidly through as yellow-teeth fearfully tries to staunch the rapid flow to only anxiously glance up and see a fascinated gaze on the girl¡¯s face.

    ¡°Huh, that¡¯s weird, I wonder why it took so long to take?¡± Wren muttered out loud.

    Yellow-teeth tries to speak but he finds that he is unable to speak as metallic-tasting blood fills his lungs. All that escapes his mouth is a desperate gurgle as yellow-teeth chokes on his blood. Yellow-teeth¡¯s body becomes uncontrollably weak and slumps on to his side.

    Lying on his side, Yellow-teeth tries to breath but blood like bubbles and froth are what emerges. To his horror, Yellow-teeth meets the eyes of the child to only find a disinterest in them. Unable to scream nor wail, Yellow-teeth drowns in the icy colored eyes as he desperately wonders, why? And though he very well knew the answer that did not mean he truly wished for one.

    Yellow-teeth hears the leaves softly crunch louder and louder as worn boots appear in his fading line of sight. ¡°How did dat girl get me? I could ¡®ave sworn I dodged!¡± Yellow-teeth thought to himself, before fading away into oblivion.

    Wren pokes the corpse of yellow-teeth with her foot just to be sure he is dead. It was a rather strange occurrence that Yellow-teeth did not bleed out quickly. ¡°Huh, maybe, I didn¡¯t cut deep enough?¡± Wren thought to herself as she makes a careful note to note make that same mistake twice.

    Bending down, Wren wipes her blade on the foul spelling corpse and ponders her next step. Before, Wren can move the stinking corpse, an illusion sends a message via their shared magic connection and explains that the men have pulled back. Without a doubt, the men were regathering to plan their next move. Such an action opposed a threat to Wren as only by having them stay in groups would she be able to hunt them down.

    Rather than wasting her time moving yellow-teethes corpse, Wren darts towards the illusions¡¯ current location and commands the illusion to remain at a distance and follow. ¡°Two down only four more to go,¡± Wren thought to herself.

    Wren disperses the other two illusions as both were being followed by the expert trackers of the group. Wren sticks to the best option and seeks out the weak links in the group. Using her levitation magic, Wren easily traverses the ground and makes very little noise except for the bushes and branches that grabbed onto her clothes.

    Wren disperses her last illusion with relief as she reaches the past location of her illusion. Coming to a standstill, Wren leans against a tree trunk as the sound of moving figures can be heard. The two men wade through the bushes as a short lanky man chuckles with the much taller furrowed-brow man. The lanky man wipes the tears from his eyes and gasping says, "You go on ahead I have to retie my boot laces." The furrowed-brow nods and walks slowly ahead.

    The short, lanky man sits down against a tree root and begins to lace his boots. Suddenly, an icy hand blocks his mouth as another slits his throat from end to end. Not even able to make a sound, the lanky man is gently held in place until his body becomes limp. Without even spotting his killer, the lanky man¡¯s corpse is gently laid to rest against the tree trunk.

    A few meters away the furrowed-brow man is uneasy at the eerie silence. Glancing back, he says, ¡°Are you done yet?¡± Frowning at failing to see his companion, the furrowed-brow man sternly says, ¡°Enough! This is not a time to be playing a joke! You know the chief will be angry, if we don''t get back soon."

    The furrowed-brow man¡¯s words echo loudly throughout the trees with no reply. Frustrated, the furrowed-brow man makes his way to the tree his companion sat at. Sighing, the furrowed-brow man rolls at the obvious prank of his companion who is surely just waiting to leap out from behind a tree. To his surprise, the furrowed-brown man sees his companion resting against a tree trunk. ¡°This is no time for a nap. C¡¯mon now, get up,¡± the furrowed-brow man said.

    Failing to see his companion react, the furrowed-brow man approaches and nudges the foot of his companion with his boot in emphasis. His companions head only bobs slightly forward causing the furrowed-brow man to sigh and reach over to pull him to his feet. ¡°Look here you trickster,¡± when the body of his companion slumps the side. A clean slit across the lanky man¡¯s neck can be clearly slit causing the furrowed-brow man to scramble back in terror.

    Struck in terror, the furrowed-brow man frantically throws himself behind a tree and holds his breath. Trying to listen for movement, the furrowed-brow man is unable to hear over the pounding of his heartbeat. Trembling, the furrowed-brow man finally remembers to reach for his dagger, when an icy hand creeps over his lips. With a twist and no hesitation, a blade is drawn across his throat. Finally, understanding dawns on the furrowed-brow man at the murderous events that transpired and slumps to the ground.

    Furrowed-brow man¡¯s eyes fill with moisture as he raggedly breathes on the ground. This was supposed to be his last outing. After this, he was going to settle down with his sweetheart and have plenty of babies. At least, that was the plan.

    To weak to even move a finger, the furrowed-brow man eyesight fades away. The last image seen in his mind is that of the smiling face of his sweetheart, causing him to weakly smile. The warm of her smile chases away the bitter cold until all that is left is a soul searing light.

    Wren nudges the well-dressed corpse with her worn boot to ensure his death. Once certain, Wren quietly wipes her blade clean before sheathing it. Wren is about to turn away, before stopping to close the eyes for the fallen corpse. Perhaps, such an action was a sign of weakness. But Wren felt, that at least his one deserved a hint of respect from her.

    Glancing at the sun for her location, Wren heads out to the south towards the waterfall location. As she runs, Wren readies her illusions, but waits to call them forth until the last second. Because she was certain that just one second of being able to use them or not would make all the difference to her in the world.

    At the waterfall, the brawny leader and a well-dressed green-eyed man wait impatiently for rest of the men. "Something is wrong. They should have been here by now,¡± the brawny leader growled as he paces back and forth in the clearing.

    The green-eyed man¡¯s handsome face twists into a sigh and runs his hands through his honey brown locks of hair. Trying to console the leader, he says, "It''s okay chief. I''m sure they''re just running a bit behind. Besides if anything went wrong, they would have activated the alarm charms."

    "I''m telling ya, they should be here by now. Something''s wrong, I can just feel it," the brawn leader grumbled. The green-eyed man just sighs in exasperation and leans back against the tree to rest. The green-eyed man closes his eyes and enjoys the sun on his face, while the leader continues to pace up and down the clearing like a caged animal.

    A quarter of a candle mark passes by and the brawn leader says, "I''m going to go look after them. Ya can stay here if ya want." The green-eyed man opens one lazy eye in reply as the brawny leader glared back. After a second of careful reconsideration, the leader sullenly slumps back onto a round bolder. "Fine, I''ll wait a couple minutes more. But then I''ll go!" The leader snapped back as the green-eyed smiles knowingly and closes his eye.

    A minute ticked by, when movement could be seen among the trees. The green-eyed man lazily opens his eyes and smiles ruefully. The brawny leader lets out a grunt as three figures can be seen approaching in the distance. The brawn leader frowns at seeing only three of his men and rises to his feet to ask for the missing forth. To his and green-eyes shock, two identical girls dart into the clearing with the third remaining in the back.

    Wren and one of her illusions approach the two men as she maintains the levitation magic at the same time. Normally this wouldn¡¯t be a burden, but she was tired, and she was about to use a third magic at the same time. The professions that they were the two men instantly react and put their guard up.

    Wren tosses her bags onto nearby boulder and dashes past the brawny leader. Without hesitation, Wren jumps and instantly glides forward in attack, while her illusion attacks from the side. The green-eyed man is barely able to dodge the illusion¡¯s side attack as Wren aims for his neck. Being the experience veteran that the green-eyed man was, despite being cornered, he managed to twist his body to the side.

    Wren hisses in frustration as her dagger pierces into his shoulder and pulls back lest the dagger become logged into the bone. The green-eyed man slashes at her past location and easily cleaves the air in two. Knowing that the brawny man was about to reach her, Wren sacrifices her illusion clone. The illusion clone wraps its body around the green-eyed man as he desperately tries to throw the illusion off.

    Seeing Wren reproach, the green-eyed man stags his sword towards his back and dispersed the illusion. Knowing she only had one shot, Wren glides around him and stabs her dagger into his side and twisting. Unable to finish the deed, Wren wretches her blade out and dashed backwards as the brawny leader¡¯s sword cleaves into the ground. Wren¡¯s stomach jumps at the close call as remaining illusion clone darts forward to attack the unprotected swordsman.

    Gritting his teeth, the green-eyed man presses his hand to his wound and moves forward to attack the illusion. Seeing the green-eyed man still moving, Wren lets out a hiss of displeasure as the brawny leader moved forward. Concentrating Wren gathers ice magic around her and shoots tiny icicles at the leader.

    The brawny leader winces as the icicles pierce into the flesh of his hand. The icicles didn¡¯t pierce deeply enough to damage his hand but were deep enough to cause to bleed. The brawny leader growls at the sneer on the girl¡¯s face. Roaring in rage, the brawny leader cleaves his blade forward as the girl barely manages to duck.

    Wren is quickly being pressed back as she eyes the bleeding hand of the brawny leader and hopes her ice spell worked. The point of the spell wasn¡¯t to wound, but rather damage the nerves of the hand. If her spell worked, soon the damage would be seen. Of course, that was if she made it that long.

    Pushing aside, the gloom of her situation, Wren worriedly realizes she is out of breath. Sustaining, three types of magic at the same time had drained far more rapidly than thought possible. At this rate, Wren would be empty in about five minutes give or take. Maybe, more if she got down to one magic. Unfortunately, Wren knew she needed both if she wanted to survive.

    The leader relentlessly presses forward increasing his wide reach and excellent defense. From his tempo and strength, it was quite easy to see that he must have had an outstanding knight training master. There were almost zero flaws with rare opening if any in his guard. But most of all, he knew exactly when and where to attack.

    Wren barely glances at her side and sees her illusion steadily keeping up with the green-eyed man. Unable to see anything more, Wren ducks back knowing full well her dagger would be unable to parry the blade strike. And though her dagger was well made it wouldn¡¯t be able to take the power held behind that strike.

    Ducking down, Wren leaps up and aims from above for his neck. The brawny leader hastily pulls his broadsword up, but that was exactly what Wren was waiting for. Turning to her side, Wren kicks the sword up as the leader¡¯s hand reflexively loosens and goes flying out of his grasp. With a clatter the blade falls to the ground as they both stare at each other for a second, before darting forward.

    Wren easily overtakes the brawny leader as she cast a small ice spell under his foot causing him to stumble. Wren reaches the blade first and with all her strength tosses it into the waterfall behind her. The brawny leader at seeing her actions instantly turns back as Wren darts forward.

    The green-eyed man at seeing the current predicament boldly sacrifices himself. The illusion clone pierces through the green-eyed man¡¯s defense and stabs through the leather armor and plunges the dagger into his side. The green-eyed man wraps his arms around the illusion as he drops his blade. The illusion clone valiantly struggles and stabs the blade into his ribs again and again. Despite being under attack, the green-eyed man¡¯s grip does not falter.

    With moisture in his eyes, the brawny man grasps the fallen blade and cleaves at the neck of the illusion. The illusion instantly disperses as the green-eyed man weakly falls to the flower and smiles recklessly. The brawny leader has the urge to reach for his comrade, but his opponent is right behind him.

    The brawny leader brings up his comrades¡¯ blade as the green-eyed man silently breathes his last breath behind him. Wren is rather pale as she breathes from the strain of her magic. There wasn¡¯t much left magic left in her magic pool even for her levitation magic. At most, she had one or two minutes left, she must finish quickly!

    Wren dodges the violent swing and bites her lips in thought. Even now, the leader¡¯s range is far larger than hers and would be almost impossible to pierce through. In that case, there was only one thing to do, play dead. Gritting her teeth, Wren moves forward as if in attack, the leader sees the opening as the tip of his blade pierces into her shoulder.

    The girl grunts in pain as the brawny leader plays dirty and kicks her right in the ribs sending her flying. Crying out in pain, the girl flies into the ground and lays limply on the ground. The brawny leader angrily snarls, ¡°Ya thought that a pathetic wench like yourself could kill me? I''ve killed monsters and more powerful men than the likes ya''ve ever seen! I''ve even killed the sixth son of the Duke of Dalvair. Why do ya think I''m in this hell hole of a place in the first place? But no worry, before I sell ya off, I am going to make ya wish ya were dead!"

    Without even a hint of remorse, the brawny leader kicks the girl again and again until she ceases to move. The leader only stops for fear of the girl being dead and kneels down to check for her breath. The leader presses his head against her chest and feels her barely breathing. The brawny leader grunts in satisfaction, but before he can react a dagger is stabbed into his face. The brawny leader lets out a pig like squeal as he claws at his face and falls back.

    Wren painfully climbs to her feet and kicks away the fallen blade. ¡°You really think I¡¯m that easy to kill, huh?¡± Wren commented as she walked over to the squealing figure of the brawny leader on the ground. The hidden rage inside of Wren bubbles wildly as it erupts past the icy river. Wren only pauses for a second, before raising her blade on high to the horror of the brawny leader.

    ¡°Please, don¡¯t kill me, I¡¯ll give ya anything ya want!¡± The brawny leader begged.

    ¡°Oh, I don¡¯t think speak piggy,¡± Wren flatly said as she brought her blade down into his head. The brawny leader squeals in pain, but Wren continues until her hands are dripping red and the leader has long since ceased to struggle.

    Wren comes to and flinches at the bloody scene as the urge to hurl wells up in her throat. Wren scrambles back as the rage within her ceases to well up and is closed back over. Wren shivers at the uncontrollable rage and scrambles over to the river and wash her hands. The water turns pink until Wren¡¯s hands and blade are cleaning.

    Wren sits back and sighs, ¡°No wonder, Hermit was worried.¡± Even though Wren wasn¡¯t the type to get very angry, the kind of anger she felt was unlike any other felt. It was though it was a kind of hunger that could never be filled. Her father had never told her about the rage, but maybe, he hadn¡¯t experienced it. And if, so, that did very little to fill her with ease.

    Wren bites her lips in thought, ¡°What if I turn into a monster, what am I going I do?¡± Wren had no qualms about what would happen as Hermit had made it very clear what would happen. But if that were to occur, well, there was nothing else, she could do.

    Tiredly glancing up at the sky, Wren glances at the corpses and starts the tiring job of dragging the corpses towards the river, before them tying them down with rocks and tossing them into the river. With a final huff, Wren tosses the green-eyed man¡¯s sword into the river, before heading towards her bags. Hungry and tired, Wren sits down and pulls out a green loaf after another in hunger.

    Finished, Wren tenderly checks her body and finds that the wound on her shoulder had already healed over as did her broken ribs and bruises. Seeing it grow dark, Wren rises to her feet and walks towards the river in search of a resting spot. Normally rock falls like these had a rock cavern nearby. Wren crosses the rocky bank and peeks at the rock ledges. Not long after, Wren finds a suitable cavern hiding partially behind the waterfall.

    Making sure her travel bags were on well, Wren digs her fingers and feet into rock fissures and begins the strenuous task of climbing up the slick rock wall. Wren ignores the spraying mist and stubbornly continues until she makes it to the cave. With a grunt, Wren wearily pulls herself into the cave and lies down. Not caring about the condition of the cave, Wren curls up against her travel bags to sleep. Even with the rumbling of the waterfall, Wren falls promptly into a deep slumber.

 *Chapter 9 - Final Confrontation

    It was already dark, when Wren¡¯s ears prick up at hearing a familiar howl in the distance. Wren eyes snap wide awake with a cold glint as she knew exactly who was coming for her. Rather than climbing out of the cave, Wren jumps into the swirling pool and swims through the chilly waters towards the river bank. Sniffing, Wren climbs up the river bank before wringing the water out of her hair and clothes.

    Given Wren¡¯s location fighting with her back to the waterfall was her best bet. The trees nearby were all quite small in comparison to the needed height required to fight off the beast. No, this time she would face the creature on land as hiding in the cave would be a death trap.

    Wren sadly sighs out loud as she bitterly regrets tossing the green-eyed man¡¯s sword into the water. At the time it seemed like a good idea, now not so much. But what was done was done and she have to give it her best given her current predicament. After the fight, Wren¡¯s magic pool was basically depleted with maybe one or two minutes¡¯ worth of levitation magic.

    The bubbling rage from within begins to bubble again causing Wren to close her eyes to envision the icy, frozen river of the Frost Giants landscape. Wren remains still and calm as the rage once more is forcibly sunk under the river. Wren opens her eyes as the familiar sickening scent that fills the air, it was the creature''s alright. Unperturbed Wren rises to her feet and keeps her hand to the side within reach of her dagger.

    A malformed figure stomps through the woods as it approaches its meal most eagerly. It had desperately searched throughout the whole forest and had even begun to despair at the vile thought that its prey had escaped. But finally, tonight, it had scented its preys¡¯ scent on the night breeze! As it made its way through the forest it howled to the other creatures in warning to stay out of its way nor to touch its rightful prey.

    Surprised it stops in its tracks as its meal remains still on the ground. It cocks its head in puzzlement fearing some sort of trap and sniffs the air cautiously but does not smell magic in the air. It happily nods in approval at its meals actions. Its rightful meal has at last understood its proper place as food to be eaten.

    The creature chares straight at Wren as Wren easily dodges to the side. After everything that had transpired it wasn¡¯t a hard feat. But rather the question was what it would do next?

    It furrows its brows in distress at missing its meal. Its meal should not be capable of defying it! And yet it has clearly done so! It angrily snorts and huffs at its meal as it vows not to miss.

    Wren furrows a bit her brow as she eyes the creature¡¯s long talons. From past experience, she was already aware that she was no match for it¡¯s long range attacks. Wren glances at her dagger and back at the creature¡¯s fur, she highly doubted her dagger would be able to get through to anything vital. Wren bitterly smiles to herself, she really, really was regretting throwing the sword into the water now. And yes, she was aware she wouldn¡¯t be able to handle the sword properly, but she could have still managed to stab the blade into the creature at least!

    The creature digs its grisly claws into the earth and wildly swings its claws at her. Wren dodges its claws by rolling to the side, before leaping back to her feet. Without hesitation, the creature bares its fangs at her in hunger.

    It licks its lips as it images the delicious taste of its meal squirming in terror. It would toy with its meal and feel the life drain away from its meal. It licks its lips and that much more eagerly claws forward in large swings.

    Wren instantly sees the opening and guesses the creature¡¯s vile thought. Wren darts for a nearby maple tree with the creature right on her tail. Rather than climbing up the tree, Wren runs up the tree and flips off. The creature slams right into the tree as Wren slams into the creature below. Wren nimbly lands onto the creature¡¯s grotesque back and ignores the blood coated fur. Without hesitation, Wren digs her dagger into the creature¡¯s shoulder and clings to its back.

    The creature shrieks painfully fill the air as Wren winces at the sharp sound. Unable to clamp her hands over her ears, Wren only resorts to breathing through her mouth to ease the pain. Enraged, the creature blindly claws at its back as Wren hisses in pain at being raked by its claws. And though the pain was nothing in comparison to having one¡¯s limbs chopped off, it still bloody hurt!

    It roars in anger at being defied and slams its body with full force into boulders and trees. But yet each time it did, it¡¯s infuriating meal would remain on its back and stab repeatedly into its spine. Its violent roaring has forced any creature nearby away including the monstrous predators, who wondered, what manner of creature had dared to challenge and defy it?

    Overhead the clouds are easily pushed aside as a radiant amber moon emerges from amidst a shadowy sea of clouds. The moon''s gentle rays illuminate the Misty Woods and turn the forest into a glittering specter. The moonbeams find their way to every corner of the forest and for a moment, Misty Woods appears to be bathed in light.

    Not only is Wren drenched in the creature¡¯s blood and badly battered but infuriated by the fact that she has yet to server the creature¡¯s spine as its flesh is unexpectedly tough. The rage within Wren bubbles violently and attempts to break its prison but is unable. As the wave of anger disappears Wren glances up at the moon with a frown and recalls a vital forgotten detail, the moon mists. On full moons such as tonight, thick mists would descend and obscure the forest floor. Hence the name, the Misty Woods.

    No doubt the creature was aware of this and had been eagerly binding it¡¯s time by dragging her further into the forest, before throwing her off and hunting her at its leisure. With such limited visibility, Wren¡¯s own senses were limited by the mist, while the creature¡¯s keen hearing and sense of smell would only serve to aid it.

    Wren grunts in pain as the creature slams her into the ground and bears the pain. A loud pop is heard as Wren¡¯s back pains her terribly. Ignoring the pain, Wren¡¯s mind searches for an idea until it comes to her. As swiftly as possible, Wren casts her levitation magic and waits for the right moment.

    Not long after, the creature slams its body towards a large oak tree. Wren vaults off the creatures back and up the tree to land on a sturdy tree branch. With only seconds to spare, Wren breathes deeply to settle her beating heart, before leaping to the tree across. Wren lightly lands on the tree branch causing Wren to release a breath of relief at the tree holding her weight, despite making a creaking sound. Seeing her plan working, Wren leaps to the next tree and the next.

    The creature snarls in anger and fiercely follows her down below. But Wren is able to outrun it as she glides through the trees and soon puts distance between them. Wren glances at the rapid falling mists and smiles wryly. It was all due to the fog that she got such an idea, but it was all thanks to the fog that level of dangerous had increased. Because if she didn¡¯t make it back to the waterfall before the mists reached her, Wren would be left in a terrible position.

    The mists begin creep up higher as Wren intently listens for the rumble of the falls. Her intent listening is soon rewarded by the soft rumble heard not to far away. Wren presses forward as her mind searches for a plan of attack. Ordinarily, Wren would have used the water to advantage as she could breath underwater. But Wren got the distinct feeling that the creature could out swim her despite not being able to breath underwater. And even if she outlasted the creature until dawn, Wren knew without a doubt the creature would return the following night. But even worse so as the creature would already be used to Wren¡¯s tricks and be able to easily counter attack.

    No, if Wren wanted to win, she would have no choice but to end everything tonight. Wren finally enters the clearing but halts and remains waiting in the tree as the last of her magic runs out. Wren pants tiredly at feeling void of any magic as her bones seem to turn into jelly. Fighting off the wave of exhaustion, Wren sighs knowing full well that a dead mage is one who has no magic left.

    Wren leans against the tree trunk to rest as she keeps watch from her current vantage point as the mist have yet to reach her height. Pausing to wipe her sweaty brows, Wren finds her arm trembling from exhaustion. The bruises and wounds on her battered body are slowly healing as her body reaches its limit unable to provide any magic to the healing process. Unable to find any magic source, the regeneration ability immediately seeks out an alternative source and consumes any stored body fat.

    Wren feels her body¡¯s strength rapidly deplenish as her body heals itself. Wren periodically glances up the moonlight until she hears the nearing howl in the distance. The mist steadily creeps up until everything below her feet is covered in a sea of fog. Much like a shark the creature approaches as a dark blur that stirs hungrily from within the depths of the mist.

    The crinkling and rustles suddenly cease causing Wren¡¯s to crouch and wait. With a roar the creature leaps up at her with its giant jaws wide open as Wren grabs the ready broken branch next to her and swings with all her might. The branch slams right under the creature¡¯s chin and sends it flying back into the mist.

    A bloodthirsty smile appears on Wren¡¯s face, but Wren does not notice as the rage within her cunningly begins to gather. Hearing a growl, Wren instantly pulls herself up to the branch above as the creature tears the branch below with its claws. Wren withdraws the tree branch from her mouth and waits as she senses the creature circling her malevolently.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    Wren abruptly hears the creature withdraw into the trees and smiles grimly. That was precisely why Wren didn¡¯t wish to continue to fight the creature in the woods. For one, it could climb and two, sooner or later it would get her to the ground. And trapped in the mist, Wren would be unable to sense from which way it would attack. At least in the clearing, Wren¡¯s back would be protected as the creature could only attack from the front.

    Wren was merely staying in the tree to rest with hopes of possibly dealing a deadly blow, before taking to fighting in the clearing. Because she knew, what she was on the ground, it would be a slugfest. And sadly enough, Wren knew she was the underdog in the ring.

    In the pit of Wren¡¯s stomach, a strange pulse is rapidly pulsing. Wren frowns at the strange pulse but ignores it as it wasn¡¯t relevant to her survival. But if Wren had paid attention she would have noticed that it was beating according to the rage that was gathering within her.

    The leaves ominously creak and rustle from one side of the clearing to another at its ferocious pacing. It sneers at the scent and snarls hungrily. Its meal was being irritating as usual by clinging to the tree. It must tear the tree down!

    Wren hears a familiar sound of the creature charging at her. Bracing herself, Wren holds the tree branch in head and waits for the creature to tear the tree down. With a powerful crack, the creature tears into the tree causing it lean. Before the creature can reattack, Wren has already leaped of the tree and landed on it¡¯s back. With only one shot in hand, Wren stabs the sharp end of the branch as deep as she can into the hole she had been digging into its neck.

    The creature screams in pain and slams its head back causing the tree branch tip to slide forward, before snapping off. The creature angrily rakes at its back in attempt to remove the tip of the branch, but Wren has already leapt onto the ground and sprinted towards the open clearing. Panting, Wren slides to a stop and places her back to the river and waits.

    The creatures howling ceases as the enraged creature rushes out of the forest at her. Wren barely twists her body away as it swings it¡¯s arm one after another in attack. It¡¯s claws lightly graze Wren¡¯s face and part of her chest. Wren hisses out at the pain and rage as the pulsing inside her stomach begins to speed up.

    The wounds on Wren¡¯s face and chest barely heal as there is not much energy left in her body to heal her wounds. The creature does not cease its relentless attacks as Wren dodges by weaving back and forth on her feet. Panting, Wren begins to slow despite herself as the creatures speeds up in sensing her weakness.

    Rage burns inside of Wren and almost bursts forth but is still trapped behind a layer of impassable ice. Grinding her teeth, Wren ducks under it¡¯s swinging claws and seemingly rolls away, before running away. Chasing creature to its surprise suddenly find Wren running right at as it opens its arms wide. At the last second, Wren slides underneath it and kicks up with all her might at its dangling jewels, a loud crunching sound is heard as Wren rolls away from underneath it.

    It miserably crashes onto its knees as it wretchedly clutches its precious goods. It shrikes in such anguish that anyone would think, it was being eaten alive. How did its meal dare to cause it such pain!

    The surrounding monsters bolt away and wonder just, what manner of creature could cause such anguish in the monstrous creature of the forest? Whatever it was it must surely be unimaginably vicious. But in the end, there could only be one and which would that be?

    Seeing the creature on the ground as planned Wren unsheathes her dagger and runs forward. Using the last bit of her strength, Wren stabs the creature¡¯s remaining eye with her full strength. The creature shrieks and sends Wren flying with its arm. Wren flies like cannonball through the air to only painfully slam into the ground.

    Wren weakly coughs out blood and says, ¡°C¡¯mon!¡± Despite stabbing the creature in its eye, Wren¡¯s blade had failed to pierce through its skull into its brain.

    It snarls in anger and snarls in promise of eating its meal alive for the next days. Protectively cradling its damaged goods, it trembling climbs onto its feet. It merely takes a step forward and lets out a howl in pain.

    Seeing the creature move, Wren¡¯s shakily climbs back to her feet. Wren¡¯s muscles were not only exhausted and not a single muscle in her body did not ache. But worst of all, she truly did not know how she was still on her feet as her body screamed at her to remain on the ground.

    Wren wipes the dried blood and sweat from her face with her sleeve. And snickers in a pained huff at the creature¡¯s suffering. ¡°Who¡¯s the prey now,¡± Wren muttered. ¡°Well, shit, I¡¯m all out of ideas.¡± The creature was already use to her attacks and they were both hurt. Her regeneration had long since reached its limit and was barely healing her at all. She had no magic left, but a dagger that couldn¡¯t pierce to its vitals.

    Wren would even hazard to say, that the creature was in a better position to win than she was at the moment. Not including the fact that if she was caught the creature would eat her alive. And such a fate was worse than death, but if worst came to worst, Wren would slit her own throat as a mercy to herself.

    The creature snarls loudly at Wren bringing her out of her contemplative thoughts. Wren merely raises her eyebrows in irritation at the creatures vastly annoying voice. The pulse in Wren¡¯s stomach bubbles ominously causing the sensation of blood boiling in her veins as the pent-up rage reattacks.

    For some reason, the perverted ghost hermit comes to mind. "The best way to force an ability to awaken is to place one''s life in jeopardy." ¡°Bullshit!¡± Wren muttered reflexively out loud. If that was the case, why was she in this pathetic state?!

    The creature¡¯s sudden movement causes Wren to glance back at it as it digs its feet into the ground. Wren grimly grips her dagger and readies herself for it to come. A fire like burn engulfs Wren¡¯s veins as it slithers for her heart as if to consume it.

    It sniffs the air as it hurtles forward at its prey. It grins in pleasure at its meals correct and proper actions of futilely standing frozen in place. Its rightful meal has been most uncooperative all evening that it had even begun to despair of ever being able to eat its meal. It licks its lips in an anticipatory manner and attacks.

    It¡¯s prey barely dodges and slashes futilely at it. It could sense the fading strength of its prey and sends its preys weapon flying. Finally, it cleverly catches its prey and holds it in its claws. It sniffs the delicious scent and licks the face of its prey for a small taste. The taste is just exquisite as its prey struggles to get away.

    It gradually opens its eagerly awaiting jaws and lowers its jaw to its arm and takes a bite. It viciously clamps its jaws shut and tears away ripping the limb off. Its prey ceases to struggle as it enjoys savors the sweet blood. It licks its lips carefully not allowing a single drop of blood to escape from its tongue. It carelessly drops its prey and begins to chew on the tasty bone.

    Ignoring its whimpering prey on the ground, it contently grinds the bones in its mouth. It quite enjoys the crunchy sounds the bones make as the bone is being crushed in its jaws. Enjoying the sweet music of its preys cries it leisurely sucks on the meat until it is gone. As usual, the fear and pain gave the flesh an exquisite rich taste.

    On the ground, Wren clenches her teeth to keep silent, but whimpers of pain still escape her. Unable to heal, Wren tries to staunch the wound as her blood burns throughout her entire body. In pain and weakened, the suppressed rage that had been imprisoned broke-through. A terrible bloodthirst suddenly arose and consumed her. An appalling bloodthirsts filled her eyes as the blood in her veins was filled with promise of violence. The violence to commit atrocities of which the likes the world had never seen.

    From out of nowhere, energy fills Wren¡¯s veins as Wren¡¯s regeneration keeps back in and begins to instantly heal. Wren¡¯s eyes are filled with a malevolent crimson light and an uncontrollable hunger fills her. Wren¡¯s second set of teeth emerge to reveal a macabre smile which had not been seen the likes in many eons since the fall.

    Its dinner is rudely interrupted as abruptly the fur on its back fluffs out and stands on end. The scent of its meal suddenly transforms into that of something very dangerous. The blood on the ground strangely begins to move causing it to take a step back. It shakes its grotesque head in a confused fashion and sniffs the air tentatively wondering, if another creature is interfering with its meal? Unable to find another creature¡¯s smell it growls in threat back.

    The spilled blood on the ground creeps on its own towards Wren and is all neatly absorbed into her flesh. Burning brightly a second pool of magic burns within Wren and urges her to drain the blood of every living being until she is fully drenched in their blood. The newly formed magic pool whispers promise of untold power and violence.

    In agreement, Wren expressionlessly flexes her regenerated arms and rising ghoulishly to her feet. Licking her teeth, Wren carnivorously turns her gaze onto the creature and grins a Cheshire smile. Wren is about to act when a coldness erupts from inside of her fueled by the pendants cool touch against her chest.

    Suddenly, Wren¡¯s eyesight becomes clear as the pulsing crimson is pushed back as the blue color returns to her eyes. A crimson light still remains but only as very thin circle encircling her eye pupils. Wren snorts in disdain at herself and at the ragging blood within her. ¡°Know, you¡¯re place, I am the Frost Clan Head,¡± Wren proclaimed to herself.

    The raging blood within her slows in acceptance and unwillingly bows its head before the chilly frost that threatened to suppress it. Taking a deep breath Wren glances up and retains her smile. ¡°Sorry about that I was just settling things with myself,¡± Wren said out loud.

    Wren takes a step forward and says, ¡°Now, you¡¯ve enjoyed eating my arm and good for you. But I will say this, you will regret that very shortly.¡± Wren points with one finger at the creature and says, ¡°Explode.¡±

    It growls back and stops in confusion. A strange pressure is felt from inside itself that only grows larger as it expands under its skin. It only feels an unmeasurable amount of panic as it feels its self-swell. Letting out a howl of pain it explodes into bits and pieces across the clearing.

    Wren grimaces as the creature splatters across and wipes the gore off her face. As if a rat to a piper the spattered blood creepily gathers on its own and is absorbed by her. The new magic pool avariciously absorbs the extra blood until it is gone. Satisfied, the blood magic disperses, but a permanent crimson ring remains around her eye pupils.

    Wren¡¯s body croaks into exhaustion as Wren falls to the ground and tremblingly reaches for the creature¡¯s body as her body howls in absolute hunger. As Wren bites down into the creature¡¯s flesh, she recalls Hermits words, "Presently your young body is not capable of tolerating all of your abilities.¡±

    ¡°So, what, I¡¯m still alive aren¡¯t I?¡± Wren grumbled back and took another bite of the creature¡¯s flesh. The reason Wren had done so, she knew she only had one opportunity left to absorb a monster¡¯s ability. And frankly, the creature was the toughest monster she had ever met as of yet. She¡¯d rather be safe than sorry on passing on such a monster. Besides ignoring the smell, the creature didn¡¯t taste half bad.

    Dawn rises to find Wren having picked clean the creature¡¯s skeleton. Brimming with newfound energy and a magic pool of magic, Wren burps and heads into the water to wash as she carefully sheathes her found dagger. Refreshed, Wren easily uses her levitation magic to grab her things, before heading out via the trees. As it would turn out traveling the tree highway was much faster than traveling on the ground. Besides, it wasn¡¯t like she could get lost at this point.

 *Chapter 10 â€“ Olden-Rise

    The forest exit is lighted by warm rays and a vast blue sky. On foot, Wren sprints the last few meters out of the Misty Woods and lets out a gleeful hoot. Wren enjoys the warm sun despite the burn on her flesh. Wren firmly presses forward all the while keeping an eye for traveler¡¯s.

    The birds cheerfully tweet from their roosts without a care in world. ¡°Huh, I¡¯d forgotten how shrill their voices are,¡± Wren thought at the birds singing.

    Wren glances down at her hands and recalls the perverted ghost instructions, ¡°The blood spell lineage burns blood for spells.¡± Wren could practice, but each time she would be burning her own blood. And if she ran out of the blood, well, Wren knew exactly what would happen.

    Wren focuses her eyes at the tip of her finger as she walks and wills a spell to come into being. Much later, a tiny drop of blood seeps through her skin and floats. Wren almost claps her hands her hands in delight, but immediately restrains herself lest she lose the single drop of blood.

    ¡°Spells, huh? I can do that,¡± Wren muttered as she stares at the single drop of blood. ¡°Explode,¡± Wren said as the single drop of blood and falls onto the ground with a hiss. Wren comes to a halt as she stares at the small crater, before innocently walking past it. Wren hastily walks away pretending she had nothing to do with the incident.

    Further away, Wren wipes the sweat from her brow and says, ¡°It¡¯s quite tiring to even produce a single drop of blood that I can¡¯t even imagine being able to do so continuously.¡±

    Nevertheless, Wren decides to keep practicing as one never knew when she might need it. As Wren practices, she enviously says, ¡°Father was so lucky, he got the useful one.¡± Not that blood spells weren¡¯t incredible, but frankly speaking it would be much more incredible to pull out a blood sword out of one¡¯s hand.

    The sun begins to wane, and Wren stops to camp for the night. Sniffing the air, Wren almost chokes in surprise as a visual image enters her mind. Wren snorts and says, ¡°That thing could still see me even with its eyes blinded! That¡¯s no fair! Well, at least it¡¯s dead and this will be of use to me.¡± Personally, though, she would have preferred to gain its magic nullification ability. But life simply wasn¡¯t fair.

    With ease, Wren sniffs for food and heads towards the fruit smelled in the distance. With ease Wren climbs the tree and shakes the leaves. The hordes of fruit fall to the ground, before she is satisfied. With glee, Wren climbs back down and sits on the ground and begins to eat.

    To her amazement, Wren¡¯s nails easily peel the fruit. Curious, Wren scratches at the tree bark to just tear it off chunks of the tree bark. Excited, Wren tries scratching at everything to test her strength to find that she can cut through rocks! Wren bends her fingers with glee and says, ¡°I was wrong about you, monster, you¡¯re pretty useful after all!¡±

    Full of cheer, Wren eats the rest of the fallen fruit, before preparing her bed for the night against the fruit tree. Not even making a fire, Wren cuddles up against the tree. Given that she can see at night and literally smell anything before it approached, Wren was fairly certain she would be okay. Besides, what was there to fear out here? In comparison to the misty woods this was nothing but child¡¯s play.

    The night swiftly passes by until the birds sing their joy at a new day¡¯s sun. Wren yawns and grouchy says, ¡°Shut up!¡± Still grumbling Wren stretches, before packing up and readying herself for the new day.

    After breakfast, Wren checks the map one last time to make she is on course. Wren¡¯s finger traces the path and stops at the checkpoint at the village fort of Olden-Rise. To enter the Tessa Mountain pass, Wren had to pass through the guarded checkpoint. Hopefully, it would be as simple as that, but Wren wasn¡¯t so certain. Sometimes check points required a means of identification to verify one¡¯s claims.

    Stowing away the map away, Wren slings on her travel bags and makes her way back to the path. On the road, Wren practices her blood spell magic careful to only unleash the spell on the side of the road lest the craters in the middle of the road are tracked back to her. Using levitation magic Wren knew she could reach her destination that much faster, but there was no telling if she would across another traveler. Besides she wasn¡¯t that far off from her destination and sometimes one just needs to enjoy the journey.

    Wren only stops once to make sure to take the correct fork in the road, before continuing east towards the Tessa Mountains. The closer Wren became to Olden-Rise the more travelers there were on the road with increasing small villages. Exasperated, Wren finally just took the easy way and used her levitation magic to traverse the treetops next to the populated roads.

    Swiftly, Wren¡¯s journey was cut down in half as Wren arrived early on the second morning. The sky has had yet to rise as a hit of a glow was lighting the dark sky into a violet glow. The cool morning breeze brushes through Wren¡¯s hair as her sleeves flap in the wind.

    Wren watches from the large crest and eyes the well-guarded town of Olden-Rise. Down below there are barely any movements as not many are yet awake in the sleepy town. Wren frowns as she eyes the fort and bites her lips. If it didn¡¯t go well, Wren knew she wouldn¡¯t be able to easily pass the guards. Maybe, if she had camouflage, but unfortunately that magic ability had yet to awaken.

    Wren glances up at the Tessa Mountain range and eyes it. Through there are other mountain passes those are guarded by smugglers. And even if Wren was able to pass through, the only safe passage into the Tessa Mountains is the entry pass through Olden-Rise. Any other passage would be fraught with dangers not to mention treacherous pathways and unexpected storms including blizzards. And once off the path lost travelers are subjected to attacks form monsters or worse being trapped forever lost in the mazelike pathways.

    No, the best only option was through Olden-Rise. Frowning, Wren moves over to hide behind a nearby shrub, before crouching down and opening her travel bags. After rummaging through, Wren carefully pulls out the heavy, clinking money bag and peers inside. Wren hadn¡¯t checked before but all she could see were gold and platinum coins.

    Wren almost curses, this was like begging to be robbed! Ordinarily it wouldn¡¯t be a problem to exchange such an amount in the capital, but this was a fort town! A single gold coin would attract the attention of thieves and other unsavory folks.

    To even exchange one gold piece would be to gain 10 silver coins or 100 copper coins as 1 silver is worth 10 copper pieces. And 100 silver coins is only worth 1 platinum coin. And don¡¯t even get her started on trying to exchange a platinum coin. 1 platinum coin was equal to 10 gold coins or 100 silver pieces or even 1,000 cooper coins. And countless smaller money coins used among the merchants and the lower class. All in all, Wren knew she was in trouble.

    Wren furrows her brows and carefully begins to sort the money in the bag in hopes of finding smaller coins. Finally, at the very end Wren spots two silver coins. Wren sighs in relief at having just enough for the toll and enough to buy supplies. Wren carefully tucks the money into her front shirt pocket, before carefully placing it back among the clothes to muffle any clinking sounds.

    Wren pauses and reaches for an enchanted black cloak. The black cloak is a fine woven, wool cloak enchanted by a clothes tailor to be impervious against the weather and fire. Wren carefully buttons the collar shut as the tip of the cloak almost touches the floor. Wren knew the cloaks length had been made with her rapid growth in mind.

    Tucking her bags back on her back, Wren climbs down the road as the sky begins to turn an array of orange. To her glee, Wren spots a group of merchants making their way down a hill crest. Using this chance Wren hurriedly rushes behind them and blends in the back as a member of the merchant group.

    The merchant group is none the wiser at having gained a new travel companion as the merchant leader mumbles at finding a good inn to rest and eat in. The surrounding merchants all nod or agree to his wise words. To any casual observer, Wren would appear as an apprentice merchant following her merchant master.

    The towering gates greet the merchants as the merchant group arrives at the heavily fortified, well guarded gates. The merchant leader greets the weary night guards at the gate, who sleepily nod and wave the merchant group on through without checking their belongings.

    The merchant group stops a local townsman and asks for the nearest inn and the merchant market. The townsman points to his right gesturing towards to the inn and towards the left the merchant market. The merchant leader thanks the townsmen as the rest of the merchants nod their thanks as well. With grumbling stomachs, the merchants head towards the inn to get a bite to eat before selling their wares. While the newly added member of their group slips away to the left without their ever noticing.

    Wren sniffs the air in hunger as her mouth salivates at the smell of fresh warm baked bread. Gulping loudly, Wren heads in the direction as her stomach demands to be fed at all cost. Ignoring her stomachs commentary, Wren spots an open bakery next to a stocked merchant stall.

    The merchant vendor smiles at the hungry look on Wren¡¯s face and waves at her to come over. Wren crosses the cobble-stoned road and heads towards the elderly merchant. The elderly merchant reaches behind him to bring out a still smoking warm bread in the cool air.

    Wren eyes fill with light as the elderly merchants splits the bread into two and holds out half towards her. Wren sniffs the air to make certain there is nothing amiss but does not smell any kind of drugs nor poison. Wren eagerly takes the bread and stuffs the warm, soft t bread into her mouth. Within a minute the bread is gone as Wren even licks the crumbs off her face.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    The merchant chuckles at her actions as Wren guiltily remembers her manners Composing herself, Wren bows and gratefully says, "Thank you, kind sir, for sharing your bread with me. Not many would take the time to do so, but you surely did. May you find yourself rewarded due to your kindness."

    The aged merchant smiles in pleasure at the child''s thankful actions. The aged merchant replies, ¡°It was nothing at all.¡± Glancing around the merchant frowns and says, ¡°Are you here by yourself, child?"

    Without hesitation, Wren lies, "No, my good sir. I am here with my guardian. However, he went off to the inn for a warm drink and to hear the news from fellow travelers. I was bit hungry and curious and went exploring on my own.¡± Wren sheepishly shuffles her feet and peeks at the merchant from beneath her eyelashes.

    The aged merchant grins at the child''s sheepish actions. "Well, the baker just so happens to be my childhood friend and will easily give an old friend like me, a bundle of loaves of bread for a discounted offer. If you''re interested in sharing that is?" The aged merchant asked as Wren¡¯s eyes twinkle with delight.

    Chuckling the aged merchant leaves his stall and heads into the next-door bakery. The old merchant picks two dozen loaves of freshly baked bread for himself. The baker raises his eyebrows at his childhood friend¡¯s actions and shakes his head ruefully. "Noel, if I didn''t know you any better, I would swear that you''re trying to eat me out of a living,¡± the baker grumbled under his breath.

    The aged merchant grins and gestures towards his stall. The baker glances at his friends stall to find a child with dark glittering eyes sniffing the delicious scented air. The baker turns and meets the eyes of his old friend as they grin at each other in reply. Handing over the payment to his friend, the aged merchant returns to stall to find the child eagerly standing their much like a puppy begging for food.

    The elderly merchant grins at the child''s impatience as the child fidgets and impatiently waits. Separating the two brown bags, the aged merchant hands over the bag of warm bread. Wren almost rips the bag out of his grasp in excitement, but at the last second remembers her manners. Graciously taking the bag from the merchant, Wren says, ¡°Thank you,¡± and carefully places a silver coin into the outstretched hand.

    The aged merchant blinks at the silver coin, but quickly checks with his fingernail to confirm its veracity. Satisfied, he places the coin into his enchanted money box and returns with the change, 9 copper coins. As he does so, the merchant wonders, what type of guardian would give a child such a large coin? It must be a well-off guardian; the aged merchant could only conclude.

    The merchant places the change into Wren¡¯s outstretched hands as Wren swallows down her saliva. ¡°Thank you, very much kind sir, you have been of great help. Seeing how kind you are, I wonder if I could make a request? Wren asked as the merchant motions to her to continue. ¡°I was wondering if I could buy some supplies from your shop?¡±

    The aged merchant grins and says, ¡°Of course, I would be delighted to help. What do you need?¡±

    Wren lists off a list of items and dry food supplies as she takes a bite of the bread. With practiced ease, the aged merchant gathers all of the items and places them onto the counter. ¡°That will be 5 cooper coins,¡± the merchant said.

    ¡°Thank you very much,¡± Wren said as she places the correct amount onto the counter and taking the needed supplies. Wren carefully stows her bread onto the counter, before packing the supplies into her travel bags. Satisfied, Wren rises with a grunt at the heavy-laden travel bags on her back and takes back her bread loaves.

    Wren appreciatively says, "Thank you, sir, for all your kind help. If I may trouble you once more, but would you happen to know of a reliable merchant, who won''t cheat a child? And who deals in fresh fruits and small treats?¡±

    ¡°It had been quite some time, since I last enjoyed himself so much. I will truly be saddened to see this child go,¡± the aged merchant privately lamented to himself.

    Pointing up further up the street the aged merchant says, ¡°About twelve stalls down, you¡¯ll find a cranky fruit vendor by the name of Fergus. Don''t let his sour, angry face fool, you see Fergus was dwelt a rather cruel hand by fate. For you see, Fergus was unfortunately born out of the womb and into this world with a perpetual angry face. But you will not find a more honest vendor in this town than him. You tell him that Noel sent you and he will be tickled pink to give you a discount."

    Wren bows in thanks, before waving goodbye and trotting down the road as the townsmen of Olden-Rise awaken. Carefully counting the number of stalls, Wren halts at the 13<sup>th</sup> stall to find a middle-aged man hunched over with a grim scowl. Several passerby¡¯s even scurry away at his fierce scowling face.

    Wren eyes widen in surprise and thinks, ¡°Noel, wasn¡¯t kidding?!¡± Wren carefully approaches and says, ¡°I was told by Noel, that you''re the most honest vendor in Olden-Rise. He said, that I wouldn''t find a better deal for fruit and treats than with you."

    The hunched over vendor rises from his stool and looks grimacing. Fergus¡¯s face splits into a wide-toothed smile and says, ¡°Heh, if Noel sent you that must mean he found ya to be trustworthy. You did well, kid, not many first-time customers are able to gain his trust."

    Fergus happily beams at Wren causing her to gape in surprise. Fergus, the vendor, scratches his face a bit guiltily. "Sorry, if I scared ya kid. I didn''t mean too. It''s just I was born with his scary looking face,¡± Fergus apologetically said. ¡°Anyway, what can I do for ya kid? I''ve got all sorts of fruits and treats just right for a kid like ya."

    Wren feels guilty and horrified at her actions. Here she was judging another for his appearance?! Could she be any more of Hypocrite?

    Shamefaced, Wren apologetically says, "You should not be the one apologizing, but I should be for judging you based on your appearance. Please accept my sincerest apologies!¡±

    Fergus is taken back in amazement at the child''s words. As it was rare thing for Fergus to receive an apology, but much less a sincere one. Fergus hides a grin as his face becomes darker. ¡°You think an apology is enough! Well, you have another thing coming kid. I refuse to accept your coin unless I give you a discount for your purchases. Otherwise, the deal is off, and you can go elsewhere for your purchases! ¡°Fergus seriously said.

    Wren sheepishly grins back at Fergus¡¯s sincere words. She really was a hypocrite! She hated being called an elf, but yet she was certain that he hated being called a scary man too. But most of all, she really should know better.

    "Thank you very much for being so gracious and not being offended my words, Sir Fergus. And yes, I would like to purchase fresh fruits and some sweets please,¡± Wren quietly said.

    Fergus grins back and quickly fills a brown sack full to the brim with fresh fruits and pulls out a small paper bag filled with a variety of delectable sweets. Placing the items on the counter, Fergus says, ¡°That will be two coppers, kid."

    Wren eyes blink at the obvious discount and furrows her brows. Wren reaches into her pocket and places the two cooper coins and places two loaves as well. ¡°Here, you haven¡¯t had breakfast yet, right?¡± Wren said as Fergus¡¯s stomach growls in reply. Wren grins and adds, ¡°So I think now, we¡¯ll be a bit more even now.¡±

    Fergus nods at Wren and accepts the added payment with a smile. Wren places the small sweet bag into the large bag and takes it in her arms. ¡°Sir Fergus, if I may be forward but should you and Noel still be alive one day, would you consider coming to work for me in a place that I will build?¡±

    Fergus blinks in surprise at the solemn expression on the child¡¯s face. An urge to laugh quails down at the child¡¯s unblinking eyes. Fergus opens his mouth and says, ¡°Should we still be alive, sure, why not? I took a liking to you kid, count me down without a doubt.¡±

    Wren ruefully grins back and says, ¡°It¡¯s a deal then. I¡¯ll be waiting for you to keep your end of the bargain.¡±

    ¡°As well I,¡± Fergus countered back.

    Smiling, Wren turns away with a new friend and a new connection. After all, good merchants would invaluable if she wanted to establish a trade route for her clan. And the more connections would also give her a wide variety of business.

    Pleased at having made a possible business partner, Wren turns down a cobbled street. Wren walks slowly as she listens to the current news, while the towns children dart in play between the crowd as their laughter rings in the early morning air.

    Wren¡¯s listens to one such conversation about a townsman greeting an old friend. The townsmen invite¡¯s his old friend to his eldest daughters¡¯ wedding to be held on the 25<sup>th</sup> day of the 10<sup>th</sup> month just two days away. The merchant heartily agrees and promises to bring the bride a wonderful gift. The two men cheerfully head towards a bar to celebrate.

    Wren almost at the date as she finds it difficult to believe she had been stuck for nearly two months in the Misty Woods! Blinking out the tears in her eyes, Wren continues to listen to the nearby gossip. A merchant complains to another merchant about how the entrance to the Tessa Mountain wouldn¡¯t be open for another candle mark. In reply, the other merchant explained that guards were on alert due to monster attacks from the Misty Woods.

    Wren doesn¡¯t react at the news as munches on a juicy fruit and instead turns her eyes towards the gathering crowd. Wren creeps nearby as a townsman loudly tells a traveler that his cousin on the watch explained that the guard was hunting for someone. Apparently, some wealthy owner from the capital was looking for an escaped slave of some sort, a female child to be precise.

    Wren narrows her eyes and wonders, if it could be Madam Norialise? But then again, this was something the Madam would do. Trying to confirm her thoughts, Wren squeezes past the crowd and studies the wanted poster. The drawn portrait looked a little like her, but not very much. The only similar features were the pointed ears proclaiming a half-elf.

    Wren reflexively reaches up to pat her own hidden pointed ears hidden by her hair and stops. Touching her ears, would only serve to call attention to her. Wren makes her way past the crowd as the simple task had become quite risky.

    Wren munches on some bread to comfort herself and heads out of the plaza to search for a place to sit, when a child''s pained cry sharply pierces through the air. Wren raises an eyebrow and follows the source of the cries until she steps around a group of men to find a struggling child being hoisted in the air by its shirt collar.

    Wren snorts in disdain at failing to see any of the adults move to defend the child. ¡°Figures, I have to do everything myself,¡± Wren thought to herself as she pulled out a red apple from her bag.

    Stepping behind a group of large men, Wren sadly hefts the fruit in her hand knowing she is about to commit a violent crime against the innocent fruit. With a twist, Wren aims and throws the apple with full force at the brute. The apple lands with a loud clunk against the brute¡¯s nose causing him to drop the child. The young child falls onto the ground with a whimper, but hurriedly scrambles to its feet and flees into the crowd. The brute cradles his nose and roars at the giggling crowd for the culprit.

    Ignoring the still roaring crowd, Wren sighs at her good deed and makes her way past the crowd. Wren happily finds a stone fountain and takes a perch thereon. In tranquilly, Wren chews on milk sweets and a purple fruit until she is interrupted by sniffling coming from the other side of the fountain.

    Wren cranes her neck for a better view and spots a familiar dirty child. Wren sighs in understanding and glances down at her food. The world is always filled with difficultly for the weak. And no matter, how much she wished to aid the child there wasn¡¯t much she could really do.

    Wren glances back at the child for a second look and finds a familiar desolate look of loss in the child¡¯s eyes. Wren glances back at her food and removes two fruits for herself and a handful of sweets. Wren whistles shrilly in air for the boy¡¯s attention and reaches into her shirt pocket for 2 cooper coins. Well, at lest she could say she did a selfless deed if nothing else.

 *Interlude - An underprivileged child: Dmitirs Report

    The whistle pierces the air attracting the grubby child''s attention. Dmitir ceases his loud sniffing and wipes his nose on his patched worn sleeve. Dmitri¡¯s stomachs growls as he shakily turns towards the whistle. ¡°Please don¡¯t let it be Lance!¡± Dmitir begged in his mind.

    Lance was the owner of their tenant room and they were behind on rent by two copper coins. It wasn¡¯t their fault that ma and pa had died the summer before from the sweltering fever. Back then, he was only 5 years old, while Laura was 12 and Clara barely 2.

    It wasn¡¯t fair, but his ma and pa could have been cured! It¡¯s just that they didn¡¯t have the money to buy form the apothecary. Ma and Pa still died despite Laura¡¯s care and didn¡¯t leave them a single coin to them. It was only thanks to charity that they managed to even bury their parents in a small plot with a stone for their headstone. The landlord forced them out of their home and the three of the lived on the street for a full moon. They only survived due to the mercy of those who would give them a coin here and there and leftovers to eat.

    If it wasn¡¯t for Laura, he and Clara would have starved. It was Laura who did her best to care for them despite their life. And though Laura could have easily abandoned them or became a streetwalker, Laura found hard, but honest work. Laura found work as a laundress and made an extra coin for mending travelers¡¯ clothes. And though Laura was exhausted from her long day, Laura never complained and still found time to surprise them with a small treat or toy here and there.

    In the evenings, once work was done, Laura steadfastly showered them with love. She would happily play with them and tell them wonderful tales and legends. But even find time to carefully teach them their letters and numbers. Their parents had sent Laura to school to become a merchant. The teachers praised Laura¡¯s talent and assure them she had a bright future. But with ma and pa¡¯s death, that dream was shattered. And though Laura could have easily found a sponsor for her schooling, he and Clara would have been sent to the orphanage. But Laura refused as their parents were orphans too.

    Ma and pa had been born into wealthy merchant families, but an attack on Olden-Rise by a flock of monsters left many dead. As a result, the town was heavily fortified and was rebuilt to withstand even a large army¡¯s attack. The result was that the birth of the Olden-Rise guards. Guards who whose arrows would never miss and instant kill. Their reputation was so great that any guard could find a superior position in any other fort.

    However, that was too late for their parents. Ma and pa said the orphanage wasn¡¯t itself wasn¡¯t a terrible place, but back then with such a large arrival of orphans the orphanage was unable to simply cope. Too little food for too many mouths to feed and with winter coming it was a drafty place. But worst of all, the children thieves and the fiendish adults. Horrible things would to happen to children who were not wary of their surroundings nor cautious enough of an adult¡¯s intentions.

    After hearing of their parent¡¯s childhood, none of them wished to live their nor much less be separated. For even if the streets were dangerous, they would be able to stay together. Destitute they may be, but they were happy together. Luckily, his elder sister, Laura found a cheap room for rent to house them through the upcoming winter. However, this week Laura was behind and had not earned enough to cover the rent.

    With a heavy sigh, Dmitir trembling faces the whistler and gapes at the young female who stares at him from across the murmuring fountain. His eyes widen in surprise at the tall girl¡¯s reserved gaze. Dimitr has never seen such pale skin that almost looked blue in the bright sunlight. The tall girl had dark black, almost blue hair in a long braid with blue/black cat-slit eyes with an eerie red surround the pupil. It was most definitely that strangest girl he had ever seen.

    The young female waves at him to come cover as Dmitir hopes he did not annoy her. Dmitir reluctantly trudges over trying not to flinch lest she whap him on the head. The girl gestures at him to hold out his hand to her.

    Dmitir gingerly stretches his left hand out to the girl as the young female drops something cold and heavy in his head. A noble child had done the same thing and handed him a hex stone for fun. The noble¡¯s child and friends roared at his sickly face. It was a week before the Hex went away and all the while Dmitir was stuck ill in bed.

    Trying not to flinch, Dmitir peeks at the objects in his hand to only find 2 shiny copper¡¯s glittering in his palm. Dmitir gapes up in shock as the young female wraps his fingers around the coins. Pressing her finger to her lips, the girl signals at him to not make a sound or maybe that she was mute? It wasn¡¯t that uncommon as he knew plenty of folds that were mute for one reason or another.

    The tall girl takes the bag filled with food next to her and places it into his arms. Dmitir gapes in wonder as the girl motions for him to leave with her hands. Dumbly Dmitir carefully places the coins into his shirt pocket and dumbly walks away. Fearful that his precious gift will be stolen, Dmitir runs away without a word of thanks. Darting through the crowd into dirty back alleys, Dmitir makes his way to a one room shed built under a stairwell.

    ¡°Sister hurry up and open up!¡± Dmitir yelled.

    His older sister, Laura wretches the door open and impatiently puts her hands on her hips as she taps her foot against the floor, while his younger sister, Clara copies Laura¡¯s actions. Laura opens her mouth to yell as her eyes widen in shock at the food in his arms as Clara eyes widen in awe.

    Shaking her head, Laura skeptically says, "Where and from who did you get all this food from young man? I know that we are poor, but we are honest citizens of the Kingdom of Leair with our pride and our dignity. Our parents taught us to be honest and kind to others. They most assuredly did not raise to be a pair of thieves!"

    Dmitir steps back at the stern glare and severity of his older sister¡¯s tone. "It''s not what you think sister. I mean-,¡± Dmitir stammered under Laura¡¯s gaze. Laura glares and motions him to head inside and confess his sins. Laura¡¯s gaze had a way of causing grown men to break out into cold sweat and instantly obey. Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.

    Dmitir quickly enters their home as his older sister closes the door behind him. He carefully places the bags onto their small, scratched wooden table. They had found the table being thrown out by the local owner of a tavern and the tavern owner had graciously allowed them to take the table home along with three sturdy, but old wooden chairs.

    Inside and sitting down on a stool, Dmitir hesitates and skips over his encounter with Lance. ¡°I was at the fountain and a mute girl whistled at me. She handed me the food bags and then shooed me away. I promise ya by our parent''s graves that I didn''t steal the food and that this is what really happened!¡± Dmitir honestly declared.

    Laura listens in slight disbelief to Dmitir¡¯s words, but his vow on their dead parents swiftly convinced her. "It''s you, not ya. Please correct your way of speaking little brother. We are poor, but not uneducated," Laura strictly said, before continuing, "Oh and in case, you didn''t realize little brother, that girl that graciously gave us the fruit is not mute. Mute people can''t whistle."

    Turning swiftly on her heels, Laura picks their younger sister, Clara from the floor. Gently holding Clara in her arms, Laura raises her eyebrows at him and keenly says, "Well, what are you waiting for? Hurry up and wash your hands!"

    Remembering the coins in his pocket, Dmitir mysteriously says, "I have one more surprise for you, my beloved sisters. Please close your eyes and hold out your hand, I promise that you will be most pleased, Laura. "

    Laura unwillingly does so as Clara giggling does the same as Clara¡¯s sparkling green eyes are visibly seen peeking from in-between her tiny fingers. Dmitir reaches into his pocket and places the coins into Laura¡¯s outstretched hand. ¡°Open your eyes,¡± Dmitir happily said as Clara squeals in delight and claps her hands together, while Laura gaped at the exact amount needed to pay their rent.

    Laura swiftly gathers Dmitir into her arms as they stand there tightly holding each other closely in their arms. Laura offers a small prayer in her heart of thanks and kisses the forehead of Dmitir. She had been so worried about to pay for this month¡¯s rent, but providence had provided a way.

    What is the name of both our saviors? And did you thank them?" Laura said as she pulled back.

    Dmitir guiltily glances down and rubs his toes into the dirt. "Our savior is the same person. I forgot to ask her name, since I thought she was mute." Dmitir said and with more hesitation added in a whisper, "I also forgot to thank her properly."

    Larua¡¯s gaze threatens to burn through his skull, before a well-deserved smack whaps him in the side of the head. "We have to find our savior and at least properly thank her. She mustn''t think that just because we are poor that we lack manners and any traces of civilization. Especially because my beloved younger brother is a complete and utter idiot. I am trying to show our savior that the rest of our family does know the meaning of gratitude,¡± Laura said as she led the way out of the house, but not before locking the door behind them.

    With the sun steadily rising in the morning sky the tree arrived to find the fountain empty of anyone. Laura sighs in displeasure while Clara smiles at the beautiful, babbling fountain. Laura still annoyed with Dmitir says, "Well, the least we can do is head to the temple and give proper thanks there while praying for our unknown savior to be blessed."

    ¡°Yes, Laura,¡± Dmitir chimed in agreement. They carefully make their way to the temple of Dathan, the God of the Soul and the Void. The large marble temple gleams in the morning light. The temple is still rather empty as the crowds of believers have yet to gather. Passing large, intricate columns, they enter through a small doorway as smoky colored air fills the air in variety of incense scents fills their noses. Dmitir holds his breath and tries to not sneeze, while little Clara wrinkles her little nose in disgust and buries her face in their older sister¡¯s shirt.

    They carefully approach a small altar and stand in front of the beautifully carved altar, while a novice waves a lantern of incense slowly down the hallway. Standing in front of the small altar, Laura nudges Dmitir with her hips. Dmitir hastily bends his head down and closes his eyes. Dmitir prays that their savior be blessed on her journey and if possible one day have the opportunity to thank her properly.

    Little Clara at seeing both of her siblings bend their heads down clumsily copies their actions and peeks at them with one eye every couple of seconds. Bored with their actions with large curious eyes, Clara peeks over her sister''s shoulders and stares at the chanting novice until her siblings are done. Finished, the three leave the small altar as the large altar was already filled with pious worshipers.

    The three make their way back down and through the plaza when a familiar male speaks out, ¡°Well, well, just the faces I was looking forward to see," a drawling voice said. Turning to their sides they see Lance swaggering towards them. Dmitir and Laura glare at Lance as little Clara quickly copies her sibling¡¯s actions as well. Little Clara cutely narrows her eyes at Lance and pouts at him and crosses her little arms in front of her to convey her seriousness.

    Lance swaggers to a stop in front of them. With a drawl, Lawn says, "Well have ye my money? Of course, in a gesture of generosity, I''m sure we could come to some other arrangement Laura." Lance runs his eyes in a leering fashion over Laura''s body.

    Laura coldly steps forward and reaches into her skirt and in a curt voice says, ¡°In that case you can keep it and share that kindness with another tenant. I would wish you well, but happily that is not the case. Good day to you, you horribly boorish man." They swiftly turn on their heels and march away as Lance gapes at their turned backs. Little Clara sticks her head over her sister¡¯s shoulder and sticks her little tongue out at Lance''s stunned face.

    After a brisk walk home, Laura hands Clara to Dmitir as she unlocks the door. Closing the door behind them, little Clara runs to the table and stands on tippy toes to stare at the bags full of food. Dmitir plucks Clara from the floor and seats her on his lap as he takes a seat. Laura places a bowl before them and clean rag as Dmitir washes his and Clara¡¯s hands. Finished, Laura takes the dirty water and rag away, before cutting some of the fresh fruit and soft bread into large pieces.

    The moment, Laura sits down little Clara and Dmitir stuff their faces with food. Laura on the other hand tastes her food, before taking another bite. Full, little Clara crawls onto the table and peeks into the sack. With delight, little Clara squeals upon spotting a brown sack full of sweets. With great effort, Clara drags the sweets toward herself.

    Spotting the sweet bag, Laura pries the bag away causing Clara¡¯s lips to tremble with tears. Laura hastily says, ¡°Let¡¯s make these last.¡± Laura places two sweets in each of their hands with Laura only taking one for herself. They all excitedly chew on the sweets untasted since their parent¡¯s death. After some pleading, Laura hands them two more sweets and takes one for herself.

    Content, Laura takes a seat with Clara in her lap as Dmitir sits on the dirt floor and leans to rest against Laura¡¯s knees. For the first time in a long time, Laura takes a day off and spends the time telling them stories and great legends until late evening. Finally, at seeing the late hour, Laura hustled them off to bed as Dmitir and little Clara protested, but still obeyed. They all slept together on a small bed raised off the dirt floor by a rickety wooden frame. And for the first time in many nights, they went to sleep without fear. Come morning, they would soon begin their hard-working day, but for now their sleeping faces reflected the happy children that they were filled with the hope of a better tomorrow.

 *Chapter 11 - Tessa Mountain Range

    After Wren handed over the 2 copper coins and bags of food to the child, the child had wordlessly thanked her in disbelief, before scurrying away into the crowd. Wren did not criticize the child¡¯s action as she understood the fear of his things being stolen. But nonetheless Wren honestly wished the child the best of luck from the depths of her heart.

    Wren leisurely munches finishes the two fruits, before getting up and heading down the cobbled street towards the guard post. Still left with a handful of sweets, Wren makes her way to the already formed queue as she chews on her sweets. Despite the wait the line is neatly formed as the Guards of Olden-Rise were famous for having little patience with impertinent travelers.

    The start of the line begins to move as Wren lines up behind a large group of merchants. The well-trained guards with confidently strides past in routine check carrying powerful enchanted weapons. The experienced guards¡¯ eyes study the group for any sign of suspicious behavior. A tall guard with a youthful face and twisting locks of brown hair approaches down the side of the line towards Wren. The young faced guard stops in front of her and pointedly clears his throat as Wren pointedly ignores him back.

    Clearing his throat again the youthful faced guard says, ¡°What is a young child like you doing in line? Don''t you know a child is not allowed to enter and travel through the mountain pass by themselves?"

    Wren¡¯s stomach sinks, but Wren wasn¡¯t one to be easily be shaken by the guards. There were plenty of run in¡¯s the capital and Wren did not necessarily have a good impression of them. Nevertheless, Wren also knew that the guards were quite easy to handle if one knew what buttons to push.

    Faking a child¡¯s innocence, Wren¡¯s eyes widen filled with awe. ¡°No, sir, I am just waiting for my guardian. He took off for a bite to eat and is running late no doubt. My uncle enjoys the company of theirs a bit too much for his own good,¡± Wren cheekily said.

    The guard with a youthful face nods in understanding as he had seen similar situations before. The guard firmly says, "Fine then. In that case, please step out of the line and we''ll wait here together for your guardian."

    Wren grinds her teeth in slight annoyance. This guard is really turning to more trouble than he is worth. It''s just her luck. Probably on any other day, she would have been able to safely pass through the toll all by herself if for not this guard''s turn to be on duty.

    Putting on a pair of fake cheerfulness, Wren beams in joy at the guards concerned actions for her well-being. "Why thank you sir, for your concern. I happy to know that such fine officers such yourself still exist in the world caring for all of us common folk," Wren said with childlike awe in her voice.

    The youthful faced guard, blushes slightly at her innocent praises. Wren cackles darkly in the depths of her heart, before rapidly becoming sullen. With reluctant hesitation on Wren''s part, Wren moves to step out of a line when a firm hand clamps itself onto the youthful faced guards¡¯ shoulder.

    The guard with the youthful face turns around and doesn''t see anyone, but the top of a hood. The youthful faced guard frowns in annoyance and glares down at the owner of the hand. A short man only just over a meter tall with a stout face and a sturdy body greets the guards glare with a friendly smile. Pulling back his hood, the middle-aged man¡¯s face can be seen. A long nose with dirt colored eyes and graying peppered streaked wiry hair.

    Wren sniffs the air in suspicion as the smell of earth and metal wafts into the air. Wren recognizes the scent from some of the girls at the brothel, it was the scent of dwarven folk. But unlike them, he didn¡¯t look much like full-blooded dwarf. No, he was much too tall and too slender to be a full-blooded dwarf.

    Still, Wren didn¡¯t know him nor trust his motives, but more than likely they shared the common goal to cross through the toll. In that case, Wren would accept his aid as the middle-aged tilted his head at her. Picking up her que, Wren smiles happily at him and shakes her finger at him in a lecturing fashion. ¡°There you are uncle! I was getting tired of waiting for you. Were you at the pub again?" Wren asked.

    The middle-aged man sheepishly shrugs and guiltily smiles back. The middle-aged man apologetically turns towards the guard. "I apologize for leaving my newly adopted child. I''ve always been a bachelor all my life and have never had a desire to find myself a wife to settle down with, but I guess the Gods had other plans for me to my great and utter surprise," he ruefully chuckled out loud. ¡°I still have yet to get use to her and sometimes misplace her.¡± At his words the guards and the surrounding curious onlookers roar with laughter. After all, they''ve all committed a similar act before much to grand dismay of their wives and women.

    The youthful faced guard claps a hand around the middle-aged man''s back in an apologetic fashion. "My deepest apologizes sir. Feel free to be on your way. Although please try not to misplace your child so often,¡± the guard mischievously said back.

    The youthful faced guard nods and says, "A good day to you. sir. May you be blessed with luck and health on your travels." The youthful faced guard turns around and walks down the line to harass some other poor unfortunate traveler who managed to attract his attention.

    The middle-aged man steps into line next to Wren still acting in his respective role. In reply, Wren reaches for his calloused hand and takes it into her own. The middle-aged man stiffens at her actions, but slowly curls his hand around hers. To pass the time, Wren cheerfully babbles childish nonsense to him as the middle-aged man in a familiar convincing fashion chats back at her until they are both at the booth. The middle-aged man pays their passage by placing a silver coin in the toll box at the guard''s post as a burly guard asks them, "State your purpose and destination."

    They both reply at the same time, "We''re going to the north for business." They both hide their surprise and suspicion at each other¡¯s response as they continue to smile pleasantly at the guards. Neither of them trusted each other further than an inch.

    The guard smiles at their response and says, "Travel as swiftly as you can as night has begun to fall early in the mountains. You''ll want to reach the first guard post by nightfall lest be caught out in the open at night." They both nod in gratitude and play their parts as they march out of Olden-Rise. This continues for some time until they make their way to the fork in the pass. The merchants and rest of the travelers head right for the south, while they take the left fork for the north.

    After a bend in the road, the middle-aged man says, ¡°I saved you and you saved me, kid, so now we''re even. Don''t expect me to take care of you. We''ll walk to the first post together and then go our separate ways."

    Wren nods her head in complete agreement and replies, "That''s exactly what I was going to say. Let''s introduce ourselves to be polite. My name is Wren. And my only question is why did you help me?"

    The middle-aged man gruffly says, "My name is Aram. As for the answer to your question, because I saw what you did for that kid. I figured you would willingly cooperate with me for you own benefit, since I sensed you''re the same as me in that regard."

    Wren nods slowly at his words in understanding. After all dwarves are highly sought slaves for their excellent craftsman skills. It would make sense that he would hide himself among the humans and distrust all others.

    Wren continues to ponder and wonders, what Aram''s other half might be? She''d been sniffing him the entire trip and could not smell human on him but still smelled a familiar scent that she couldn¡¯t quite place. But most interesting of all, Wren¡¯s skin had a bit of tingles as they walked. Though she wasn¡¯t afraid, Wren got the feeling he was quite powerful and most definitely stronger than her. If so, it maybe wouldn¡¯t be a bad idea to learn a thing or two from him.

    The two remain silent on the trail each lost in their own thought until something flies rapidly toward them. Wren without hesitation casts an icicle into the air with a blood drop at the end. The frozen ice traverses through the air towards the flying reptile like creature.

    Aram ignores Wren¡¯s actions as such a weak ice spell would do very little to harm the monster. Strange glowing magic begins to concentrate around his fists as he readies himself for the creature¡¯s attack. But before the creature can attack, the smell of blood magic permeates the air. Aram grits his teeth in anger. If a blood elf had shown up, then it would be close! Unfortunately, he wouldn¡¯t be able to help the child in the slightest from the creatures'' attack as defeating the blood elf was the number one priority.

    The icicles slam into the reptilian monster and explode. The creature crashes into the ground in a heap as the blood floats out of its body and is absorbed into Wren¡¯s hand. Aram whirls to face the blood-elf but is shocked to find the child using blood magic.

    Finished, Wren glares back and says, ¡°What?¡± Not seeing Aram respond, Wren says, ¡°Now we¡¯re even. Now let¡¯s get going before any more of those things show up.¡± Wren doesn¡¯t wait for a reply before marching down the road.

    Aram is still in shock as he dumbly follows still trying to regain his bearings. After some time, Wren breaks the awkward silence and says, ¡°I have some blood-elf in me.¡±

    Noticing a lack of response on his part, Wren continues. "If you try to blackmail me, I promise I will make you regret it. I know you¡¯re a dwarf because you smell like metal and earth. And secondly, the magic that you just used changed your scent to that of a fairy. Most dwarfs are not very good at magic, yet you are which proves the fact that you have fairy blood. So, if you try to blackmail me, I will blackmail you back and expose your hidden secret."

    Not seeing a response, Wren tries a different tactic, ¡°

    With a heavy sigh, Wren tries another tactic as she curiously says, "So, how did that happen? You know your birth? I mean, a dwarf and a fairy, a rather rare, odd combination, don''t you think?"

    Sighing at Wren¡¯s persistence, Aram finally turns and answers the child¡¯s question. "I will answer your question in due time," Aram tiredly said.

    Wren grins at her success and hums to herself to pass the time. Wren blindly reaches into her bag and pulls out a small pouch filled with dried fruit. Wren chews on the snack and waits as cool breeze ruffles their cloaks announcing winter is coming.

    Aram politely coughs and says, ¡°I was just rather surprised that you have blood elf in you that''s all. For one, you do indeed look like an elf, but you don''t bear any likeness or any other resemblance to the Blood Elves. The Blood Elves tend to have golden hair, eyes, and skin. There most certainly are variations, but you don''t meet any of those."

    Wren mutters under her breath, "Because I''m a Frost Ogre." Whether Aram heard her or not, he did not comment on her words as Aram continues to be lost in his own thoughts.

    After a long pause, Aram to continues, "Blood Elves rarely ever breed with other races other than the elven races. As far as I know, half-blood elves are either die in birth or perish as children.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I already know that,¡± Wren drily said.

    Aram blinks in surprise and says, ¡°How much do you know?

    ¡°All of it,¡± Wren snickered back. ¡°I know all about the uncontrollable bloodlust and that is the reason that blood elves don¡¯t have children with others.¡±

    Aram chokes and says, ¡°Then you must know you are the first half-blood elf in history to not go mad!¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m only a quarter blood-elf. Besides I¡¯m not the first, father was,¡± Wren distantly said. Wren gently smiles with pride at her father¡¯s achievements. He surely was without peer.

    Aram recognizes the familiar expression and does not ask anything more the subject. Glancing upward, Aram says, ¡°We better speed up, the sun is staring to wane.¡±

    They instantly press forward each lost in their own thoughts. As the sun begins to wan a cold chilly wind begins to pick up causing their cloaks to flap nosily in the breeze. Night falls quickly in the mountains as it rapidly begins to darken. As it grows dark in the distance the faint glow of lanterns can be made. Pressing into the chilly wind, they keep their heads down and press forward.

    A half of a candle mark later a well wrapped up guard at the gate glares down at two weary travelers. Aram yells up at the guard, "We came from Olden-Rise, this is the first post isn''t it?"

    The guard grunts and signals to the other guard to open the gate. The small fort gate opens with a groan and opens just a crack to allow the travelers to creek through, before shutting with a loud snap. A guard on the ground points them towards the only inn as they make their way towards it. Aram opens the thick wooden door to find weary guards sitting at the table eating with the innkeeper at the bar. Closing the door behind them, Aram walks towards the innkeeper and says, ¡°We need a bedroom with two beds and two delivered meals if possible?¡±

    The thin innkeeper grunts, "That will be fine, sir. Your room will be two doors to your left."

    Aram wordlessly thanks the innkeeper and tromps up the wooden stairs as Wren darts up ahead and slams the door open to their bedroom. Wren automatically picks the bed nearest to the window, before methodically removing her bags and neatly hanging her cloak on the bedpost. Carefully removing her boots, Wren eagerly throws herself onto the bed to rest. Wren¡¯s stomach growls at not having been fed lunch and grumbles about having daily regular meals.

    Aram gingerly closes the door behind him and begins to unpack as well. Perhaps bothered by the silence, Aram says, "Why did you help the child?"

    Wren raises her head and stares in confusion at him. Turning on her side, Wren says, ¡°We share the same fate, the loss of our parents. And as such, we no longer have anyone to defend us in this world and must do our best to survive by our own efforts. I think that the least I could do is offer a helping hand to aid someone that shares the same fate."

    Aram is quiet in understanding as he understands far too well. His own mother forced herself to live among strangers to save him only to die for protecting him. And afterwards, he too was forced to live alone and survive with his own two hands.

    Wren interrupts Aram¡¯s thoughts by saying, ¡°So, what¡¯s your story?¡±

    Aram glances up and says, ¡°Given my dwarven heritage, I am a craftsman.¡±

    ¡°No, I mean, how¡¯d a fairy and dwarf, you know meet?¡± Wren persistently asked in curiosity.

    Aram sighs in embarrassment and says, ¡°It¡¯s a long story.¡±

    Wren eagerly comes to rest on her elbows as her eyes gleam. Gazing with eyes full of interest, Wren says, ¡°We¡¯ve got all night.¡±

    Seeing Wren¡¯s persistent eyes, Aram has distinct impression the girl won¡¯t give up. Sighing, Aram leans back to rest on his bed and says, ¡°Many years ago, my mother, Olwen set out to fulfill her apprenticeship as a journeyman by finding rare materials in the Tessa Mountain Range. My mother¡¯s journey was fraught with many dangers, but each time she successfully triumphed. However, that all changed when Olwen came across a pack of black wolves. Beseeched on all sides, Olwen fled through the night to only slip and fall into a ravine. Injured, Olwen was unable to escape and called out in hopes a stranger would come to her aid. Indeed, a stranger did come to her aid, a young male fairy by the name of Aran found her. Aran carried Olwen way to his nearby magically crafted cottage.¡±Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    Wren¡¯s eyes sparkle at the romantic story and clutches her pillow to her chest in excitement. Just because she didn¡¯t always act like a girl, didn¡¯t mean she wasn¡¯t a girl at heart!

    ¡°You see Aran was a young fairy lord in search of an adventure. Once healed of her injury, Olwen would have set out, but the first snows of winter struck early. Unable to traverse the mountains in such perilous weather conditions, Aran kindly allowed Olwen to stay for the winter. Naturally being young as winter passed by one thing led to another and the two fell in love.

    With spring coming, my mother, Olwen realized that they could not be together. Oh, Olwen loved Aran with all her heart, but she knew she would never be accepted by Aran¡¯s kin. But most of all, fairies are unable to live underground. Olwen knew Aran would force himself for love, but she couldn¡¯t bear to see her lover suffer for her sake. Her decision was only reaffirmed upon finding herself with child.

    With spring upon them, Olwen left one warm spring night in the dead of night. My mother, Olwen only left a letter saying, how much she loved him and no other explanation. The only memento she took with her was his golden engraved ring a gift to her. The journey took several weeks back to the dwarven kingdom. Upon her return, my grandparents were shocked but pleased to find that Olwen was caring an unborn child. My mother never told anyone who my father was not until circumstances forced her too. But before than at my birth my mother named me, Aram in remembrance of my father. My grandparents loved me with all their might despite my unknown father, while my mother never wed nor loved another man again.

    As a child I was much thinner and taller in comparison to a regular dwarf. But that didn''t matter, for I was a happy child who had many friends. However, as I grew older, I began to become ill more and more often. My mother with a sick heart knew that it was my fairy heritage that was awakening. Unable to bear my suffering, Olwen finally confessed who my father was. With tears in her eyes, my mother explained that I needed training for my fairy heritage lest I become a threat to others and myself. Furthermore, that I could possibly die should I remain underground for much longer. And so, the decision was made, we would part for the surface. With a tearful goodbye, we said goodbye to friends and family before setting off for the hidden fairy kingdom. Our journey was fraught with danger, but mother skillfully kept us safe.

    Finally, after many weeks we arrived at the fairy kingdom¡¯s door. Olwen shouted at the guards to let us pass as she explained that I was half-fairy in need of training. The guards naturally mocked my mother¡¯s words for what fairy could ever love a dwarf? It was not until Olwen revealed my father¡¯s ring did they allow us to enter the fairy kingdom.

    We taken inside and told to wait in a guards¡¯ tower awaiting further instructions. To our amazement, the Fairy King came in person. The Fairy King indeed confirmed my parentage as my father being Aran, the son of the fairy Duke of Loren. For indeed, Aran had returned heartbroken many years ago to only beg for the whereabouts of the dwarven kingdom. Naturally, the Loren Family was opposed and did not allow him to venture out into the wilderness. Saddened by grief and heartbreak, Aran wasted away with sickness and perished.

    Not willing for Aran¡¯s love child¡¯s talent to be wasted, the Fairy King acknowledged my and mother¡¯s existence as part of the Loren household. The Fairy King personally escorted us back to the Loren Family manor and fostered unto them. The Loren Family naturally were reluctant to accept us but had no choice as the Fairy King had decreed it be so.

    Despite my dwarven heritage, I was quite a talented mage and accepted into the fairy academy. Nevertheless, not excluding the Loren Family many viewed me as a flightless abomination. With the Loren family turning a blind eye, the noble children of the academy sought to bully me and excluded me from all social activities.

    Still I was happy for I had my mother, Olwen. My mother, Olwen was quite popular in the city for her excellent dwarven craftsmanship. With her head held high, Olwen continued to pass down the dwarven craftsmanship down to me. We spent many happy hours together in the forge crafting-,¡± Aram said with a distant smile.

    Wren clutches her pillow tightly already knowing what was coming. Burying most of her face, Wren¡¯s eyes peek over the edge as she continues to listen.

    ¡°However, that all changed the day a great horde of lion beasts broke through the gates. Being the valiant woman that she was, Olwen put on her armor and went to battle. Mother was beyond brave and if not for her, the city would have been possibly destroyed. And yet, Olwen would die from her wounds in the middle of the city alone.

    The Fairy Kingdom rewarded mother post-martyrdom by granting me a minor title and land of my own. I did not care for the King¡¯s gifts for what I truly desired could not be granted. But there was a small tender mercy that did give me some measure of relief. Out of guilt or perhaps a firm word from the Fairy King, but my Loren grandparents buried my mother next to the grave of my father.

    After that there was nothing keeping me in the fairy kingdom. I threw myself into graduating as fast as possible, before leaving the kingdom forever. And since, then I¡¯ve never gone back,¡± Aram said with a faint smile.

    ¡°With joy I returned back to Hallstatt to be greeted by friends and family. But I did not see my beloved grandparents faces among the happy throng. With sadness one of my cousins explained that my grandparents had passed away some time ago. However, my family was quite happy to have me back as my aunts and uncles gladly offered up their places for me to stay at. But I politely declined as living with them would not be the same.

    Either way, I was forced to leave due to my fairy nature as I became violently ill after living two months underground. Instead I choose to live nearby above ground and regular travel back and forth. The only real reason I was passing by Olden-Rise was because I had finished trading with another dwarven kingdom and was returning home,¡± Aram explained.

    Wren eyes gleam with a twinkle at the excellent news. Not only was Aram not a pervert ghost, but an educated craftsman with many connections! With winter coming, it would be the perfect time to find a teacher. It was though the heavens had finally sent something good her way!

    Wren grins in a predator fashion at Aram as Aram can''t help but shiver at her gaze. ¡°What on earth could the child possibly want?¡± Aram uneasily wondered as cold sweat crawls down his back.

    Wren cunningly says, ¡°Do you have a student?¡±

    ¡°No, why?¡± Aram suspiciously asked.

    Wren innocently rises to her feet and bows. "Aram, this child places herself into your care and looks forward to being under your care. Please teach me wisely, teacher. I look forward to our time being spent together,¡± Wren sincerely said.

    Aram stares wordlessly at Wren. Did she clearly not hear, what he previously said? Besides he lives alone and has no prior knowledge of teaching others!

    Trying to get her to change her mind, Aram hastily says, " I am a hard and ruthless teacher. I will make you work hard every day to the bone that I¡¯m sure you will come to regret becoming my pupil."

    Wren interjects, ¡°For one, you¡¯re not a perverted ghost.¡± Aram chokes at that comment in bewilderment.

    "Besides, I doubt you will chop off my limbs for training purposes,¡± Wren matter-of-factly stated.

    Aram stares at Wren in horror and stutteringly says, "Of course not! What kind of deranged lunatic would commit such foul actions?" Aram shivered in horror at such vile actions.

    ¡°A perverted ghost,¡± Wren solemnly replied causing Aram to choke again.

    " I greatly look forward to your guidance,¡± Wren added and deeply bows again to him.

    Aram is quiet and unable to think of a come back as Wren scrambles for her bag. Before Aram can react, Wren returns with a money bag and places it on the bed before him. Wren apologetically bows and says, ¡°I apologize for my lack of manners, Master. I had forgotten that there is a fee that must be paid for an apprenticeship. Please accept these humble offering as payment for my education and apprenticeship. Please guide me wisely teacher."

    Aram mutely stares at the child. Nothing he says seems to get through to her! But worst of all, he had the strange certainty that persuasion would fail in regard to her.

    Exasperated and against his better judgment, Aram says, "I will accept you as my apprentice, if you answer some questions for me. First, why do you want to be trained by me? And secondly explain what your goal is? For I will not create a monster, who only seeks destruction."

    Wren smiles at her master''s wise words. This is just a test for master to see her worthiness to be taught under him. In that case she happily accepts the challenge.

    Wren honestly answers, "I need to be educated and trained in magic. You are clearly capable of both and best of all you aren''t a perverted ghost.¡±

    Aram¡¯s brows furrow at the perverted ghost comment. ¡°Did she really meet a perverted ghost?¡± Aram couldn¡¯t help but wonder with a bit of horror and intrigue.

    ¡°As for the second question, I wish to create a nation, where ogres and all manner of creatures can live in peace just like in the beginning. And it certainly helps that you have many powerful connections which I am need of to establish a successful trade. With my goal of having you accept the position as head of trade and craftsman,¡± Wren sincerely said.

    Aram opens and closes his mouth at Wren¡¯s ambitions. Choking, Aram asks, ¡°Wait, why a nation for ogres?" He curiously asked.

    Wren raises an eyebrow and proudly says, "Because I''m an Ogre, of course. I''m the proud clan head of the Frost Clan."

    Aram opens and closes his mouth trying to wrap his mind around the concept. "Please don''t take this the wrong way, but your appearance is that of an elf,¡± Aram warily said.

    Wren nods her head and sternly says, "Yes, I do look like an elf. However, Master even in jest if you ever call me an elf, I will break your nose. I am an ogre."

    Aram mutely nods at the scary look on Wren¡¯s face, since the child does not appear to be joking. Curious now about the strange circumstances, Aram decides that perhaps now, would not be the best time to inquire about that bit of history. Despite himself, Aram found himself convinced due to the child¡¯s tenacity.

    In reluctant acceptance, Aram says, "Fine, I''ll be your Master." Wren eagerly claps her hands as Aram instantly adds, ¡°But I expect you to follow my orders without question.¡±

    Wren happily grins to herself. She knew she could convince her master to accept her. After all, how could he possibly turn away the Frost Clan head?

    A soft knock on the door is heard as the inn keeper holds their dinner in hand. Aram quickly puts away the money pouch into his travel bag, before rising to open the door. The innkeeper hands Aram two trays brimming with food, before retreating and softly closing the door shut.

    Aram wordlessly hands the plate to Wren, who snatches it right out of his hands as she ravenously begins to eat the food. Within a few moments the plate is wiped clean as Aram dumbly stares at the child. Just what on Athlora is this child?

    Wren happily places her tray outside the door, before removing her boots and climbing into bed. Tucked into bed, Wren snuggles into the warm soft bed and sleepily yawns. "Good night Master, I¡¯ll see you in the morning,¡± Wren said and closes her eyes fast asleep.

    Aram just continues to wordlessly study his new pupil, still not having touched a single bite of his food. ¡°Just what on Athlora did I get myself into?¡± Aram wondered to himself. Heaving a sigh, he places the uneaten plate of food at the door, before retreating to his bed to sleep. Sleep has a long time coming, but finally the exhaustion wins, and he sleeps in a fitful sleep.

    Elsewhere that night in the town of Olden-Rise at a table in a corner of the pub Crow''s Feet sit three men. The three men drink a mug of hot cider as they sit in silence. The first to break the silence is Fergus, the vendor. ¡°Noel, that kid ya sent to me, sure is something else. She apologized to me for judging me and even said, if in the future I would be willing to come work for her! Can you believe the guts on that girl?" Fergus said with a chuckle.

    Noel, the aged merchant replies, "That she is. I''m not sure who she is, but I can only hope that we¡¯ll see her again."

    Tallen, the baker curiously asks, "Who are you talking about? Are you talking about the girl, who was with you this morning, Noel?"

    Fergus grins and says, "Ya that would be kid. A toast to wishing the kid the best of luck." The men clank their mugs together and take a swig, before talking until late that night. After all, who knows perhaps they will meet again.

    Early the next morning in the chilly morning, Wren and Aram set off. Aram led her down the path for a bit, before heading off down a small, hidden trail. As time passed, Wren became hungry as they continued without stopping to eat. Wren only managed to eat a dried piece of meat, before being unable to as the difficulty of the trail increased as they crossed through 5 gullies, 2 ravines, and 1 ominous pit with no ending in sight.

    After the entire day¡¯s travel with the sun in front of them beginning to set, they finally emerged into a valley. There below in the middle of a lower valley was a well-made cottage made out of wood and stone. Wren sneezes as they descend below at the flowers strong scent. Wren never did like the scent of flowers as it reminded her of the scent the Ladies of the house wore. Sad to say, but Wren never much liked flowers since then.

    Trotting over the plain of grass and flowers, Wren spots a large well-tended garden on both sides of the cottage with an orchard filled with fruit trees. Wren licks her lips at the sight of the fresh fruit and just can¡¯t wait to pluck a fruit for herself.

    Seeing Aram¡¯s gait slow given their proximity, Wren curiously asks, ¡°Given how fast you travel, how come you spent more than a day in Olden-Rise?¡±

    A tinge of rouge climbs into Arams cheeks as he embarrassingly rubs his face with his hand. ¡°Humans have tasty food that the dwarves don''t always have,¡± Aram embarrassingly mumbled. ¡°Besides human villages have lots of sweets and treats.¡±

    Wren smiles in approval of Aram¡¯s words for only a lover of food and the true understanding that food is life would say such thing! ¡°Excellent decision, Master! For food is life and without it we die!¡± Wren confidently declared.

    Aram laughs out loud despite himself. It would appear that in that regard they are certainly very similar at that. Perhaps, having her as his apprentice wouldn''t be such a terrible thing after all.

    Having arrived at the blue painted front door, Aram mutters something inaudible under his breath. The door swings wide open on its open as Wren peeks into the home. The house is filled with well-crafted wooden furniture, fluffy pillows, a large fireplace and more importantly a large bookcase full of countless books.

    Aram keeps his smile to himself at her expression as he leads her inside. Without being told what to do, Wren carefully hangs her cloak and travel bags on the hooks next to the door. While Wren eyes the wooden table before her, Aram enters the open kitchen. Opening intricately carved cupboards, Aram returns with loaves of dwarven bread, fruits, and a tiny bowl with sweets.

    Placing them onto the table, Aram is unable to stop himself from grinning and says, ¡°Sit down and eat up.¡± Wren leaps into a chair and practically engulfs the slightly hard bread. Not slowing down, Wren gobbles up a ripe pink fruit, before eating one more loaf of bread, and six more pink fruits, before slowing down to savor the sweets.

    Wren quite enjoyed the dwarven bread, but it was a bit dry. The fruit was quite fresh and crisp, probably from the garden. And the sweets are rather milky, most likely a dwarven sweet. But what Wren couldn¡¯t figure out, if cows and goats live on the surface, then where do the dwarves get their milk from?

    Aram eyes Wren in astonishment as he slowly eats. ¡°Just where is she putting all that food at?¡± Aram wondered as he eyed Wren¡¯s still flat stomach. Should he be worried that she would literally eat him out of his house?

    Wren chews on some sweets as she eyes her master¡¯s home. From the corner of the wall a beautiful mechanical clock ticks away as she eyes the device in fascination. Wren had seen a mechanical clock once before, but it was tiny comparison to this one.

    Aram smiles at Wren¡¯s inquisitive expression and rises to his feet. Wren quickly does the same and grabs her things from the hanging hooks. Aram leads Wren through the hallway passing two bedrooms on each side before stopping at the third door on her right. ¡°This will be your room from now on,¡± Aram said.

    Wren steps inside to see a row of hanging hooks conveniently placed next to the door. On the south wall is a large wooden closet with smaller dressers on either side. In front of the enchanted glass window facing into the east is a small writing desk with a matching chair. But best of all there is a bed that looks as soft as a feather at the north wall with a small door next to it leading to the washing/facilities room.

    Wren abruptly turns around and hugs her master in thanks. Aram freezes in surprise but slowly relaxes unable to recall the last time he was hugged. Aram gently pats Wren on her head and realizes that soon Wren will match his height. Coughing Aram pulls back as Wren bows and says, "Thank you for your wonderful hospitality, Master. And if you excuse me, I shall retire early to rest.¡±

    Aram eyes glimmer with a grin as he solemnly replies back, ¡°"Go straight to bed for tomorrow we will start bright and early."

    Wren nods in reply as Aram closes the door to her room and heads back to his own room. Aram hated to admit it, but Wren was quite stubborn. Despite their hard pace and tiring journey not once did she complain. If anything else, it showed that Wren had an incredible endurance. or

    Having put her things away, Wren curls up on the bed and closes her eyes. For tomorrow, a new life would start before her. She mustn¡¯t let his opponent go to waste, Wren thought lastly to herself before falling sound asleep.

    In her dreams, Wren finds herself in a large valley filled with swaying green grass in the breeze. Further ahead, Zarris rests with his back against a tree trunk with his eyes closed as he enjoys the soft whispering of the wind. Wren quietly approaches and takes a seat next to her father as they enjoy the silence. After some time, Zarris opens his eyes and softly begins to sing the beautiful, but forlorn lullaby of the Frost clan.

    ¡°I''ve been wandering through a moonless land

    where skies are dark and full of rain;

    Here I stand- aimlessly,

    With horizons, faraway.

    Memories seep- from my bones

    that I dearly-- hold,

    fade away, so easily,

    vanishing forevermore.

    Night is falling-

    Starlight,

    doesn''t reach-

    onto this endless road,

    infinite, tears stream evermore.

    Time slips by,

    the wind blows-

    Suddenly,

    you are there-

    Arms, open- wide, greet me,

    an eternal warmth, rains,

    over me-

    to these memories I will hold,

    nevermore letting go.

    Once more,

    Time flows,

    -Ends the day,

    Time has come, to bid farewell,

    Why, must it, be-

    this way-

    I promise

    I won''t,

    forget-.

    This is, not goodbye,

    I know, I''ll see you again-

    sunlit horizons,

    never- far,

    let us, meet- again,

    under bright-

    blue skies-

    nevermore to part,

    we will be,

    together again.¡±

    Wren intently listens to her father sing the bitter sweet melody. Zarris finishes singing and gently pulls Wren into his arms. Placing a gentle kiss onto Wren¡¯s forehead, Zarris says, ¡°Little one, you are now more than strong enough to be on your own and I am so very proud of you.¡±

    Zarris tightly holds Wren one last time, before placing one final kiss on her forehead. Soundlessly rising to his feet, Zarris raises his eyes to gaze into the distance. ¡°Oh, my little one, how I wish I could remain here beside you, but we all have tasks to fulfill including you,¡± Zarris bittersweetly said. ¡°But when the time comes, I¡¯ll be right here waiting for you.¡±

    In understanding, Wren leaps to her feet and hugs her father with all her might. With moisture in his eyes Zarris bitterly returns the hug, before prying her arms from around him. With a firm gait, Zarris turns away and walks up the hill. The wind flutters gently through her hair as Wren watches her father''s figure disappear over the horizon for the last time.

    The sun rays burn brightly into Wren¡¯s eyes as she blinks tears out of her eyes. Blinking rapidly Wren is startled at her foreign surroundings until she recalls the events of yesterday. Wren smiles serenely as she stretches, before climbing out of bed and reading herself for the day. Dressed and ready, Wren opens her bedroom door and steps into the hallway that brimmed with possibilities. Only time would tell what the future might bring.

 * Epilogue- A Merchants Report

    -24<sup>th</sup> day of the 10<sup>th</sup> month of 1519

    Ferris, a newly registered merchant bites his lips as he searches for a merchant mission. Still in the process of building his clientele as a new merchant he needed to undertake a mission to build his merchant reputation. Suddenly, one of the merchant vice-leaders with an eye glass says, ¡°Ferris, I have just the mission for you,¡± and handed Ferris a mission slip.

    Ferris eyes gleam at the easy mission of delivering goods to Tora-Gorge, but best of all paid very well! With disbelief, Ferris says, ¡°Can I really take this sir?¡±

    ¡°Of course, my lad, we at the merchant guild offer an equal opportunity to all,¡± the vice-leader cunningly replied.

    Amazed at his luck, Ferris says, ¡°I won¡¯t let you down, sir!¡± And hurries off to undertake the mission. After darting through the capital, Ferris gathers his needed supplies shares the good news with fellow comrades. To Ferris shock the more experienced merchants burst out into laughter. Confused, Ferris anxiously asks, ¡°Is there something wrong?¡±

    One of the merchants chokes and says, ¡°It¡¯s a mission to Tora-Gorge, right?¡± Ferris nods his head in reply as the merchant continues, ¡°That place is basically a death trap as you have to pass through Fern Woods which is infested with thieves and black wolves. So, you tell me if you weren¡¯t made of a fool of?¡±

    Ferris pales in understanding that he had been tricked. So late in the game it would be impossible to hire trustworthy mercenaries at a low price. Worst of all, if Ferris waited to find a trustworthy group, the fresh goods which he had bought might rot by that time. Stuck between a hard place, Ferris knew that if he didn¡¯t deliver he would be unable to cover his debts incurred.

    Ferris head drops down in gloominess but perks up at the merchants next words. ¡°Well, you could always do that,¡± another merchant hesitantly said.

    Ferris heads perks up and eagerly asks, ¡°What?¡±

    The merchants tentatively glance at each other until one of them says, ¡°You could take the short cut through the Misty Woods.¡±

    The blood from Ferris¡¯s face drains at the thought of entering the most feared place in the entire kingdom. In an effort to cheer Ferris up another merchant says, ¡°If you¡¯re careful, you can even make it through the forest in just two hours¡¯ time before sunset.¡± Ferris face is still damper as the merchant¡¯s clap Ferris on the back to give him strength, before heading off to finish their own business.

    Sighing, Ferris numbly returns to the stable that has the ready goods on the rented pack horses. With the aid of a stableman, Ferris manages to climb onto the packhorse and sits rather awkwardly. With a slap to the horse¡¯s butt, the packhorse sets off as Ferris fearfully clings to. By the end of the day Ferris reaches the Misty Woods close to sunset. At the edge of the forest, the horses snort and shuffle uneasily back and forth.

    Ferris patiently rubs their sweating necks until they finally settle down. With care, Ferris dismounts and winces at the soreness between his legs. Grimacing, Ferris hefts the heavy-laden travel bags onto this back and chest. Barely able to move, Ferris activates the wooden horse charms braided into the horse¡¯s hair. The spell compels the horse home and allows the owner to know that the horses are on their way. In turn, the horse owner activates the protection spell on the horse¡¯s saddle from his end. The protection spell will ward off dangerous animals and allow the horses to safely pass unseen from bandit¡¯s eyes.

    Ferris gloomily waves goodbye to the eager horses, who soon disappear into the distance. With a trembling chin, Ferris steps into the eerily quiet forest and presses forward. The most important thing to do was find shelter for the night as the forest darkens oppressively. A candle-mark later Ferris halts and climbs off the path at spotting a strange tree. The tree itself wasn¡¯t strange, but rather that all the lower branches on the red oak trees were chopped away. Ferris eyes widen at seeing vicious claw marks that failed to reach the safety of the middle branches and gleam in understanding that a traveler had safely passed the night away in this manner.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

    Ferris almost skips in glee and hurriedly removes his laden bags. Using the coil of string tacked onto the travel bags, Ferris weaves the coils together, before tying the end to his chest. With a pained grunt, Ferris climbs the tree and tiredly reaches the middle branch. Wiping the sweat from his forehead, Ferris huffs and puffs as he pulls the bags up by using the branch above him as a lever. Left with stinging palms, Ferris finally manages to pull his merchandise.

    Wiping the sweat off his face, Ferris tightens the noose on the bags and leaves them resting on the branch, but still firmly tied to the branch overhead. Exhausted and hungry, Ferris reaches into the small purse at his waist and chews on dry hard tack. Ferris only pause to take a swig of water from the canteen at his waist before swallowing the dry biscuits down.

    Full and sore, Ferris leans against the tree trunk in a comfortable position and closes his eyes for a light sleep. The night swiftly passes by as the inhabitants of the forest pass by in inspection to only continue by. When morning comes, Ferris somewhat happily and well-rested climbs back down. Full of hope, Ferris sets down the marked path towards Tora-Gorge.

    Two candle-marks later Ferris finally emerges into the slopes below that lead to Tora-Gorge. Happily trotting down the dusty road, Ferris greets the villagers. To his dismay, the villagers greet him darkly. ¡°I¡¯m here to deliver goods to Tora-Gorge,¡± Ferris stammered out.

    The villagers instantly turn into a mob and surround him. ¡°He lies burn him at the stake!¡± ¡°He¡¯s an evil apparition of the woods sent to destroy us!¡± ¡°I say we hold him till the chief sees him!¡± ¡°Hang him!¡±

    Poor Ferris turns as pale as a ghost at the villagers¡¯ words. ¡°Enough!¡± A kindly old man said as the villagers instantly disperse. ¡°I apologize for my flock, but they merely are just anxious of outsiders. May I know your name and business, young man?¡± The local village priest asked.

    Ferris tremblingly relies, ¡°I was sent here by the merchant guild to deliver goods to Tora-Gorge.¡± Ferris even holds out the merchant mission slip to the priest to verify.

    The local priest smiles and says, ¡°Welcome, young man.¡± Frowning the priest turns towards the villagers and says, ¡°This here young man is a merchant and is merely doing his duty. You should all be ashamed of yourselves for frightening the poor lad.¡±

    The villagers bow their heads in shame as they shuffle their feet. Not all the villagers accept the priest¡¯s words and one shouts out, ¡°But he came out of the Misty Woods, and no one travels the woods at night!¡±

    The local priest turns an expectant eye at Ferris. With cold sweat dripping down his back, Ferris explains his journey through his forest and of the ingenuity of the unknown traveler¡¯s safe resting method. Thrilled, the local priest invites Ferris to rest at the village heads home, before sending the local guard to the nearest knight post.

    While Ferris cheerily converses and rests at the village heads home, the local village guard gallops at full speed towards the nearest knight post. With great solemnity the guard relay¡¯s the information to the guarding knights who in turn relay it on up all the way to the Captain of the Knights. The Captain of the Knights naturally understood the true value of the information relayed and what it signified for the Kingdom. Excited, the Captain of the Knights in turn sent word through the knight¡¯s magic crystals to the knight¡¯s headquarters in the capital. Headquarters was thrilled to do the same and deliver the joyous discovery to the King of Leair.

    The King of Leair ordered that the knights immediately present the merchant in front of him. Later during that same day, a frightened Ferris is escorted at full speed by a squadron of knights to the capital. All the while, Ferris was not told where he was being forcibly taken. Poor Ferris couldn¡¯t help but wonder, what terrible offense he had committed?

    Heavily guarded Ferris is presented before the King. Trembling in fear, Ferris prostates himself in front of the king as the King of Leair chuckles at the bow. Believing that Ferris was quite humble, the King says, ¡°Rise my subject.¡± Ferris unwillingly complies as the King says, ¡°Due to your great bravery we have a new travel method to safely traverse the Misty Woods! From this day forth, Ferris will be known as Baron Ferris Silia of Leair.¡±

    Ferris is simply in disbelief unable to understand at being granted nobility and land. Still in shock, Ferris bows in thanks before being taken away the merchant guild. With envy and pride, Baron Ferris Silia became the toast of the merchant¡¯s guild.

    After that everything changed as it became possible for merchants and travelers to safely pass through the Misty Woods. There was still some danger, but tree house like structures were built high up in sturdy trees as resting places. Theses trails were named, "The Ferris Highways." Soon more and more pathways were made and the Kingdom of Leair steadily prospered.

    A few months later in his manor, Ferris gazes up at the stars. ¡°I don¡¯t know who you are but thank you for everything. I am sorry that you didn¡¯t get the credit you so much deserved, but it¡¯s a bit too late now,¡± Ferris lamely said. ¡°Instead, I will pray that the Gods may bless you on your travels and in your dealings.¡± Ferris sincerely added. Shivering in the cold with a happy sigh Ferris headed back to his manor as a shooting star crossed the vast dark sky glittering ominously.

 (Season 2) * Chapter (1) â€“ Advancement

    -13<sup>th</sup> day of the 7<sup>th</sup> month of 1527

    Wren dashes forward as she dodges one of the Hydra¡¯s heads as it releases a massive fire ball as she twists in mid-air to avoid one of her arms from being eaten by another head. Her heart beats eagerly for a moment as she feels the thrill of the chase rise in her blood. Wren breathes deeply for a moment stilling the rising bloodlust as she lands on the ground with a hungry smile on her face. Leaning forward she concentrates her magic around her right fist and swings her fist with full strength onto the Hydra¡¯s oncoming head.

    The Hydra¡¯s head explodes under the force of her punch and allows her a clear shot at its main body. Wren instantly charges forward at seeing the opening she had been eagerly waiting for. Time slows down as Wren races forward and in that moment, she is transported back in time, when her training first began with Master Aram.

    The first few months with Master Aram consisted of training her how to properly fight, rather than always relying on her instincts. Not that her father hadn¡¯t trained Wren well, but Wren had never had a chance to actually use those skills in battle. When in battle, Wren had developed the bad habit of relying on her physical capabilities and instincts rather than controlling the fight from the beginning to her advantage.

    Once Master Aram was satisfied that Wren had absorbed the basics, he had Wren combine magic training along with combat fighting. This wasn¡¯t so bad, since Wren was already able to think under pressure. But the only issue Master Aram had was that Wren specialized in Water and Ice magic, while he was an earth and wind magic user. Although Master Aram could teach Wren to better control her magic that did not change the fact that Wren was in desperate need of a specialized magic teacher. With that purpose in mind, Master Aram and Wren set off for the dwarven Kingdom of Hallstatt.

    The first time Wren entered the the dwarven Kingdom of Hallstatt she was amazed by the marvels within the underground city. Master Aram swiftly made their way through the city to the instructor he had mind. As it would turn out the instructor in mind was Master Aram¡¯s cousin, Aquila, half-dwarf, half-nymph. Now Aquila was quite the beauty as she had the body of a nymph but the stature of a dwarf and was by nature quite popular with the menfolk.

    Arrangements were swiftly made with Aquila happily under taking the task of training Wren under her wing. Wren was left to be trained by Aquila, while her master would visit for a week once every month to review her process. And for the next two years that is exactly what Wren did. Finally, after three years Aquila declared that she had nothing more left to teach Wren. Aquila happily declared that if Wren had been born among humans, she would have had a high position as a mage in any kingdom¡¯s court. But Aquila did warn Wren, that there was always more to learn and so there was a constant need to improve oneself.

    And though Master Aram was joyfully at Wren¡¯s return, he was slightly disappointed about Wren¡¯s lack of craftsmen skills. On the weeks, he would visit Wren, they would visit many workshops to see if Wren had a talent for any sort of craft. As it turned out, everything that Wren touched somehow broke, melted or became ruined and as such Wren gained a rather ominous reputation among the dwarf¡¯s city craftsmen. Nevertheless, there were two crafting skills, Wren mastered against all impossible odds only through sheer persistent effort, clean and repair. Clean would enable to instantly clean herself and her clothing of anything, while repair would fix any tears in her clothing up to five times!

    Upon their return to Master Aram home, Master Aram carefully considered Wren¡¯s future. Master Aram already knew that forcing Wren to use weapons such as swords was useless, since she already had an incredible physical weapon, her fists. But Master Aram was the cautionary type and allowed Wren to experiment with what she felt would fit to her tailored needs.

    In the end, Wren¡¯s lucky dagger was reforged by the dwarves into a stiletto with a matching twin dagger. Not only that Wren added dozens of enchanted needles that could pierce through anything with matching enchanted strings that would allow Wren to instantly recover the thrown needles. The thin, almost invisible needle weapons were neatly lined up on the side of what appeared like thick black bracelets that hung on Wrens wrists. At the time the dwarves had even felt, Wren was crazy, but they weren¡¯t craftsman who feared a challenge and succeeded in fulfilling Wren¡¯s request.

    Naturally, Aram was quite surprised to find the purpose for Wren¡¯s needle weapons as means to attack others with her spell blood magic. The one weakness that spell blood magic had was its range as to increase further range the enchanted blood must be carried via another mean. The needles would serve as the tools to increase Wren¡¯s range and deadliness. Aram was quite satisfied with Wren¡¯s innovative creativity and agreed that the needle like weapons were a most suitable weapon for her. As such, Aram sent Wren out into the Tessa Mountain range to battle on her own using solely blood magic to defend herself in order to find the weaknesses to her blood magic and weapon needles and overcome them.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.

    Four years later, Master Aram was finally satisfied with Wren¡¯s progress. At that time, Master Aram handed Wren a rare antique dimension ring and said, ¡°This is my final gift to you a dimension ring with the space of a small city. It cost me quite the pretty penny, so use it wisely.¡± Master Aram conveniently did not mention that it belonged to his mother before her.

    ¡°I¡¯ve packed everything and more into the dimension ring including your personal belongings. But please take note that living beings can¡¯t be put inside,¡± Master Aram carefully added.

    Wren nods her head as Master Aram continues, ¡°Now, it¡¯s time to complete your final graduation test as my apprentice.¡± Turning towards the Tessa Mountain¡¯s Master Aram points north and says, ¡°If you head through the northern passage all the way to the end, you¡¯ll reach your destination the Valpe Plains in one years¡¯ time. But to reach the end, you¡¯ll have to slaughter the beasts of the Tessa Mountain Range only using your fist with your final test being to hunt down the Mountain Hydra.¡±

    Wren carefully slips the dimension ring onto her left hand as Master Aram pulls out a small box from his pocket. Master Aram hands Wren the box as Wren open it in surprise to find a pair of enchanted ruby earrings. ¡°Put them only once you¡¯ve defeated the Mountain Hydra,¡± Master Aram said as he held out his hand that had a matching ruby ring. ¡°The ring will let me know you¡¯ve completed your task and when the time comes it¡¯ll let know where to find you,¡± Master Aram quietly finished.

    Wren gently takes the box and puts it into the space ring as Master Aram briskly says, ¡°You¡¯re already to go and the sooner the better.¡± Before Master Aram can say anything, more Wren who was now much taller and stronger pulled him into a hug. Master Aram protests as he finds himself being smooshed into Wren¡¯s now adult chest.

    Embarrassed Master Aram pulled away and grumbled, ¡°You¡¯re much too old for this to be pulling such embarrassing antics.¡±

    Turning away, Wren says, ¡°I expect you to keep your promise, Master Aram.¡± Before firmly walking and heading into the Tessa Mountain Range.

    Wren knew that the most difficult part had finally begun as Wren¡¯s strength was in its intensive growth period. Wren¡¯s monstrous strength was still growing, and Master Aram had sent her away to further increase her strength and allow her full potential to appear. In that following year, Wren found herself countless times outmatched, but with each victory Wren only grew stronger.

    One of the Hydra¡¯s heads darts forwards causing Wren to break out of her reverie as one of the heads of the Hydra opens its mouth wide and digs it mouth into her left shoulder. Without stopping her charge, Wren digs her feet more into the ground leaving behind deep footprints in the rocky earth as she pushes forward and the Hydra head if flung forcefully backwards. Another Hydra head clamps itself tighter onto her left arm as another head darts at Wren. Wren grudgingly smiles at the Hydra with respect and quickly leaps forward as she brutally twists her body to the right. With a sickening sound, her left shoulder and arm are left behind in a puzzled Hydra¡¯s mouth.

    Not being distracted by the pain, Wren focuses all of her strength into her remaining fist as she abruptly stops in front of the large Hydra¡¯s chest. With the added momentum of her abrupt halt Wren¡¯s fist brutally collides with the enormous shimmering ebony body. The Hydra freezes and stares with bewilder at Wren as she steps back and a second a strange lurching sound is heard from inside of the Hydra¡¯s body as it¡¯s body bursts open like a ripened fruit. Wren sniffs with satisfaction as blood and flesh briefly rain overhead as the Hydra¡¯s Heads collapse onto each other. With a loud popping sound, Wren¡¯s left arm grows back out as the rest of her wounds finish healing.

    Wren sighs out loud at the state of her clothes and non-chantingly says, ¡°Repair.¡± The clothes instantly repair themselves with grime interwoven in the threads. Not yet finished, Wren non-chant says, ¡°Clean.¡± Instantly Wren¡¯s body and clothes are clean. It only took Wren two years two master the two simple craftsman spells, but it had been well worth it.

    All of sudden a familiar loud rumbling is heard as Wren¡¯s stomach reminds her that it is time to feed it again and she mustn¡¯t let this Hydra go to waste. Wren firmly agrees with her stomach and tears off a Hydra head to eat. The moment she begins to eat the blood instantly is sucked out of the Hydra¡¯s corpse and is sucked into her skin.

    Wren sniffs as the corpse of the Hydra stiffens and instantly tosses into the dimension space as food for another day. Not that she still didn¡¯t have dry food supplies, but Wren much more enjoyed eating fresh meat in comparison.

    Wren gulps rather loudly as she swallows the last bit of the hydra head and reaches into her dimension ring. Wren pulls out a small box and smiles as she opens the box. With careful care, Wren punctures her ears as her ears sting for a moment, before rapidly healing themselves. Glancing up at the sky with a smile, Wren says, ¡°I¡¯m finally off, Father,¡± before activating her levitation magic and darting away. After all, ever since, becoming a full mage dual or even triple wielding magic at the same time wasn¡¯t a feat anymore.

    On the other side of the Tessa Mountains deep in the ground, Master Aram glances up at the stone ceiling and smiles. ¡°So, she¡¯s on her way,¡± Aram thought with a rueful smile. Still looking up at the stone ceiling, Master Aram softly says, ¡°May the gods be with you, my one and only apprentice.¡±

 * Chapter (2) â€“ Expectation

    -10<sup>th</sup> day of the 8<sup>th</sup> month of 1527

    The combined use of levitation magic and camouflage allowed Wren to easily cross the remaining Tessa Mountain Range and beyond the Valpe plains. The wind blows coolly as dawn has yet to arrive, but the sky has begun to turn a lighter shade of violet and blue.

    Wren closes her eyes and allows the silence to sweep over her as she tries to remember her father¡¯s words from long ago. ¡°Over the Tessa Mountain Range and past the Valpe plains follow the winding river until it runs straight and then turn west. Keep to that path until you reach the deep chasm and follow it until disappears into the ground. And only then turn towards the sun to find the stone circle and the large hill overlooking the forest. For their down below you will find our village, our home,¡± Zarris softly whispered.

    Wren opens her eyes feeling refreshed even though she has not slept the entire night in excitement. She smoothly scampers across the ring of stone and through the forest until she reaches the hill her father spoke of. With her heart trembling with unknown emotions, Wren climbs the large grassy hill to stand at the peak. In the forest valley below lays a semi-overgrown clearing of trees amidst the ruins of an ancient village. Wren¡¯s heart plummets sadly, she had hoped that perhaps by some chance of fate there were other survivor¡¯s other than her father. But even still, Wren had kept her promise to father and made it the Frost¡¯s Clan¡¯s home.

    The breeze dances with the leaves in the morning light filling the morning silence. Wren¡¯s boots crunch across the dew-covered grass filled with debris as she comes to a pensive halt before the ruins of her ancestral home. Even now, the ruins show the marks of the past violence that had transpired. The burnt streaks across fallen stone frames, the chips of blades in the rotting wood frames that still stand.

    For a movement, Wren can even almost hear the screams and the sound of battle. Her eyes fill with bitterness as the last hope inside of her fades away. Wren unconsciously reaches towards her neck and touches the familiar necklace on her neck for comfort. Feeling a tad better, Wren turns away and walks further into the ruins searching for the clan altar to pray and honor the dead.

    Having traveled the full length of the village Wren is still unable to find the fallen clan altar. With a frown, Wren encircles the surrounding area again to avail and from this tiny irregularity the seed of hope is reborn.

    Taking a gamble, Wren activates levitation and camouflage as she leaps through the treetops. Wren circles the area in large circles searching for a trace of anything in any direction. Suddenly, from the depth of the forest a deer herd moves rapidly as if fleeing. Wren instantly darts for the area and comes to halt on a rock sarsen overlooking the whole area. Wren waits in anticipation for the figure of the hunter to appear.

    A large figure despite their massive girth nimbly darts through the trees. The hunter runs at full speed towards Wren without noticing her concealed figure. The hunter rushes eagerly towards the deer to suddenly find themselves airborne and with a painful thud the hunter lands on his back.

    Swiftly realizing he is under attack, the hunter rolls to his feet and hastily reaches for his small ax at his waist. But before the hunter can reach his weapon, the hunter finds his arms painfully twisted behind his back as an extremely tall, female elf pins him to the ground. Seeing the appearance of his captor a trace of hope appears in the hunter¡¯s eyes as tries to throw off the elf with his strength, but to his dismay he finds the abnormal elf is stronger than him!

    Trying to keep the fear out of his voice, the teenage hunter tries to confidently say, ¡°Do you know who I am?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± was the curt reply.

    The young hunter blue skinned face pales as his blue eyes fill with fear. ¡°Oh,¡± he rather defeatedly said. The teenage hunter bites his lips revealing pointed teeth and fangs that slightly curve like tusks.

    Wren¡¯s eyes widen with hope as she carefully studies the young hunter¡¯s features. Ogre features, but much more human than normal. A girth size much larger than a regular ogre, all the traits of the Frost Giants. And more importantly physical features that largely resemble her own hair, skin and eye color.

    Wren¡¯s heart fills with hope as she forces her voice level to hide her excitement. ¡°Are you a remnant of the Frost Clan?¡± Wren firmly asked.

    The young teenager¡¯s eyes widen with shock as he warily says, ¡°Yes, how do you know that?¡±

    Wren apologetically climbs off the young and quickly aids him to his feet. The young hunter warily takes the elf¡¯s hand as the monstrous women easily pulls him to his feet. The teenage ogre unhappily grunts, ¡°What do you want?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll know soon enough, show me to the village,¡± Wren swiftly ordered.

    The young ogre trembling shakes his head and replies, ¡°No! I won¡¯t betray the village, I would rather die!¡± Flinching, the teen hunter closes his eyes and waits to be killed.

    A soft snort causes him to peek through one eye. The monstrous elf women merely shake her head and says, ¡°I promise by my very own life that I mean no harm to the Frost Clan.¡±

    The teenage ogre reluctantly accepts the oath and nervously leads the way. Every few feet, the youth glances back to ensure the elf is still with him. Sure, enough the elf woman still is and despite her unusual height which matched the grown village ogres, there is something almost familiar about her, but he just can¡¯t place it.

    At the edge of a clearing, the sound of village voices can hear causing Wren¡¯s heart to pound as she hears the villagers. Gulping down her excitement, Wren finds her stomach clenching nervously. Trying to shake loose the feeling, Wren takes a deep breath and calms her exited heart and mind.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    The young hunter pauses at the edge the clearing. ¡°Follow me closely and don¡¯t speak until spoken too,¡± the teenage hunter said. Despite his wariness of the elf, he did not wish for ill to befall her. After all, she had not killed him nor threatened him and that was an option rarely offered to his clan.

    The young hunter nervously takes a loud gulp. He hesitantly steps out of the clearing and says, ¡°Well, look what I found? We¡¯ve got a guest!¡±

    The villagers don¡¯t pay attention to the proclamation until a tall elven figure emerges from behind the young hunter. The children instinctively are hidden by the villagers as the men take a step forward. A particularly scarred ogre angrily roars, ¡°Idiot! What were you thinking?¡±

    The teenage hunter flinches and wilts under the roar. Strangely enough, the elven woman pats him on the back in comfort. Feeling a bit better, the teenage hunter peeks from under his eyelashes at the elf woman as she walks past him.

    Wren heart pounds as she eyes the simple wooden, stone village. The houses are larger than normal to fit the ogre¡¯s large girth. They looked so much like her and father that her heart was pounding with joy. It was her clan. It was home.

    Wren keeps her hands in the air to show that they were weaponless. ¡°I apologize for my intrusion, but I have journeyed long and far to be here. If I may, may I ask to see the resting place for Calder, his wife, Uma and his daughter, Ara?¡±

    The ogres stare at each with suspicion at the request. The air is still as the ogre men protectively reach for their weapons. Wren¡¯s face stiffens with dismay, but suddenly an old man¡¯s voice emerges from the back of the crowd. ¡°I sure as hell ain¡¯t dead to be in a grave yet. Who are you stranger and what do you want with the departed?¡± The old silver-haired ogre croaked.

    The crowd parts and a large scarred ogre walks out with a limping gait. Despite his age, Calder is still tall, large and imposingly muscular with long white hair neatly braided down his back. Calder¡¯s face suddenly stills upon seeing the face that was so heartbreaking familiar. Abruptly coming to a halt, Calder tremblingly growls, ¡°Girl, who is your father?¡±

    ¡°My father¡¯s name is Zarris, Sir,¡± Wren swiftly replied.

    The older ogre¡¯s in the village instantly recognize the name as their faces fill with shock as Calder harshly says, ¡°Prove it.¡±

    Wren nods and reaches for the necklace inside her shirt. Wren takes out and shows it for all to see. ¡°This belonged to my father and it was given to him by his mother, my grandmother Ara on his 8<sup>th</sup> birthday,¡± Wren quietly said.

    Caldor¡¯s shoulder shake as he maintains his calm and quietly asks, ¡°And what of Zarris?¡±

    Wren is silent for a moment, before answering, ¡°My father-, he died to save me.¡± Wren pauses to steadfastly meet Caldor¡¯s gaze. ¡°I know that my answer may not be what you wished to hear, but it is true. And even so, I can¡¯t blame you if you blame me for his death. But I have come a very long way to fulfill my father¡¯s wishes and only ask to be allowed to visit the graves of the dead,¡± Wren sincerely added.

    Before Wren can react, the old ogre stomps towards her as she realizes with surprise that despite his age and behind somewhat hunched over with age, Caldor is still taller than her. With shock, Wren finds herself being engulfed into his Caldor¡¯s chest. A feeling of warmth and comfort invades Wren as Caldor whispers into her ear, ¡°You have come home, little ogre.¡±

    Raising his head, Caldor lets out a joyful shout, ¡°My great-granddaughter has returned to us! Tonight, we celebrate!¡±

    The villagers roar with joy as well and happily begin the preparations. The young teenage hunter is left gaping along with the younger members of the village at the unbelievable events that had transpire. Before the youths of the village can react, they are dragged off by the adult villagers to prepare the feast.

    Caldor wraps a gentle arm around his great-granddaughter¡¯s shoulder and softly says, ¡°Come, I will show you the place of our dead.¡±

    The two are quiet for a bit as they walk towards the forest with Caldor leading the way. Once out of the village, Wren tentatively says, ¡°We thought-, I thought you were dead Cald-, grandfather. Father always said, that he saw you fall before he was taken by the slavers.¡±

    Caldor sadly nods his white head. ¡°Yes, I did fall. But it takes more than a blow to a head to kill this old ogre,¡± Caldor proudly said.

    Wren¡¯s lips twitch with mirth at the statement, before hesitatingly saying, ¡°Grandfather, I have something to confess.¡±

    ¡°Oh, what is that?¡± Caldor wryly asked.

    ¡°I returned in hopes of becoming the Frost clan head and leading our people away,¡± Wren honestly said.

    ¡°Is that so? Well, you can¡¯t become a clan head just by wanting it. One either must be chosen by the village or possess the power of a clan head. But there have not been any descendants in the village for the last several generations that carry the ancient Ogre clan head lineage.¡±

    ¡°Oh, is that all? I thought it would be a lot more complicated like some ancient tradition of proving my strength by performing some impossible feat,¡± Wren muttered.

    Caldor snorts and says, ¡°As if it is so easy to gain the unanimous vote of all the villagers.¡±

    Wren shrugs and says, ¡°I don¡¯t think that will be much of a problem.¡± Wren flashes her grandfather her second set of razor sharp teeth.

    Caldor suddenly begins to choke and pounds on his chest to breath. Wren warily eyes her grandfather lest he begins to choke again. Breathlessly, Caldor says, ¡°Show me that again.¡±

    Wren¡¯s second teeth appear as Caldor¡¯s eyes fill with tears causing Wren to awkwardly pat him on the back. After regaining control of his emotions, Caldor breathlessly says, ¡°Do you know what this means?¡±

    Wren drily says, ¡°I know that I¡¯m the next clan head.¡±

    ¡°Yes, but you are the future of your people for the ancient lineage only appears when a great Ogre Clan Head is born,¡± Caldor said with eyes full of excitement and hope. Caldor¡¯s excitement dims as they arrive at a clearing with a giant mural filled with carved names. Caldor remains at the edge of the clearing giving his granddaughter privacy with the dead.

    Wren reverently crosses the clearing and stops at the mural altar. Wren quietly reads the name of her ancestors and clansmen one by one until she reaches down to her line. Wren tremblingly reaches out and touches the name of the grandmother she never knew, Ara. The grandmother who taught her child to love and to be far braver than possibly thought.

    Wren¡¯s fingers stiffen with longing as she touches the next carved name, her father¡¯s, Zarris. Wren¡¯s nails dig into the stone as if she could touch him across the distance. Wren gently withdraws her fingers and brings them to her lips, before pressing them back to his. ¡°Papa, I made it back,¡± Wren whispered. And in response a wind gently brushes her ears and leaves a tiny flower on her shoulder, a Bluestar, her father¡¯s favorite.

    Wren¡¯s lips twitch back into a gentle smile and tucks the tiny flower into her shirt pocket. Turning on her heels, Wren returns to the figure of Caldor with a smile. Caldor grins back revealing sharp fanged teeth. ¡°Come, tonight we celebrate and come tomorrow, we shock the whole village!¡± Caldor wolfishly said.

    Wren drily says, ¡°I can see why father was always described you as a loose cannon.¡±

    Caldor throws back his head and laughs. ¡°That¡¯s my boy. He was always a wily one that one,¡± Caldor chuckled to himself. Wren doesn¡¯t interrupt the sweet memory and waits for Caldor to come to. Intertwining her arm with his, the two return to the celebrating village. The village drums pound with fury and excitement, the sound of war.

 * Chapter (3) â€“ Village Counsel

    The day after the feast the village elders including the current village leader, Caldor, gather around. A fierce large ogre with a mustache by the name of Brody growls, ¡°Well, why have you gathered us today, old man?¡±

    Caldor snorts and says, ¡°I¡¯ve decided to pass down the village head position to my great-granddaughter, Wren.¡±

    Brody sputters in protest, ¡°Are you mad? We can¡¯t just pass down the village head seat willy-nilly!¡± The rest of the village elders clamor up in protest as well.

    A wizened female elder by the name of Agnes says, ¡°Enough¡± The village elders surprisingly quiet down as Agnes continues, ¡°Very interesting, Caldor, you, wily old fox. You wouldn¡¯t purpose such a thing if you weren¡¯t confident in your decision. So, stop keeping us in suspense and go on with it.¡±

    The village elders turn to stare at Caldor, who says, ¡°If you follow me outside, you will understand why.¡± The village elders comply and exit the stone home.

    Wren is currently restlessly sitting on a log as she waits for the village elders to exit. Wren sits up at seeing them emerge as she fidgets in excitement where she stands. Caldor nods at Wren, while the rest of the elders wait for Caldor to show him whatever it was he wanted. Wren opens her mouth and suddenly the second seat of razor sharp teeth emerges.

    Some of the newer elder¡¯s blink in shock while those like Agnes or Brody eyes fill with moisture and excitement. ¡°At last, the Goddess Silvia has blessed us,¡± Agnes muttered. Without waiting for the others to react, Agnes kneels despite her old age and says, ¡°I humbly greet the new matriarch Frost Clan Head.¡± Instantly the rest of the elders do the same and say the same words including Caldor.

    Wren anxiously says, ¡°There is no need for such formalities, please rise!¡± Wren hastily helps the village elders back to their feet as Caldor beams in pride.

    Brody snorts at Caldor¡¯s smile and says, ¡°It¡¯s not you, we¡¯re bowing to you, but the new matriarch!¡±

    Caldor stares down his nose and snobbishly says, ¡°My precious great-granddaughter is descended from my loins it¡¯s basically the same thing.¡±

    Sparks fly between them and before the two can begin a shouting match, Agnes says, ¡°Matriarch, what are your plans?¡±

    Wren smiles and says, ¡°Before we continue let us return inside to continue our discussion.¡±

    The elders excitedly do so and for the first time in many years feel a spring of youth in their steps. They all knew one thing, there was finally a new Matriarch Clan Head. And a new Clan Head meant hope for not just their village but for all Ogres.

    Caldor pointedly offers his head seat at the stone table as the rest of the elders wait for Wren to take a seat first, before being seated. Wren takes a seat, while the rest of them do as well leave Caldor to lean against the wall for the remainder of the meeting. Wren peeks at her grandfather, but Caldor motions with his hand for Wren to continue.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    Wren smiles and says, ¡°I have a plan, so please hear me out.¡±

    The elders excitedly listen as Wren says, ¡°I plan to build a nation, where we can live in peace, but to do so we will need more than just our clan but the aid of other Ogres and other races. I¡¯ve already built several business connections in the dwarven kingdom of Hallstatt and my master has promised me to come to aid us as the head of trade and craftsman.¡±

    Wren pauses as she pulls out a map of Astria and points to their location beyond the Tessa Mountain range. ¡°Presently, we¡¯re too out of reach for successfully trade not to mention that our soil for farming is not very good for growing crops. Therefore, I propose we move the village,¡± Wren plainly stated.

    The village elders anxiously erupt in whispers, but a single glare from Caldor, Brody, and Agnes silence the remaining elders. Agnes points at the map and cautiously says, ¡°That is all good and well, but where can we possibly go? Any further south and we will encounter the humans.¡±

    Wren smiles and says, ¡°Yes, I thought of that too. That is why we will sail down the river to the Omnivorous Plains. Neither the humans nor any other kingdom has claimed the Omnivorous Plains as their own as they are overrun with wild beasts. But we are mighty Ogres who dare do so.¡±

    Brody grunts in approval and says, ¡°Yes, we have boats to sail down the river and sailing down the river as you say is no problem for us. But it is already early fall and winter will surely soon be upon us. Building winter homes won¡¯t pose a threat, but what of food and safety during those hard months?¡±

    Wren nods her head and says, ¡°Food wise is no problem. Master gave me a space ring before I¡¯ve left and all my kills since then have been piling up inside. And as for safety, I am confident enough in my own abilities to put downwards to warn us in time. However, I too agree, we should wait until spring is once more upon us.¡±

    Caldor smirks at Brody and says, ¡°Any other questions?¡±

    ¡°What about money?¡± Agnes interjects.

    Wren says, ¡°I thought that we should establish an official mercenary group, and have it recognized by the nearest human kingdom, the Kingdom of Leair.¡± The elders open their mouth to protest, but Wren says, ¡°I know that it irks the very thought of asking the humans for anything, but if we have an official paper from another kingdom, we will be able to be formally recognized by merchants. Not only that, but we will establish that we are in fact civilized beings and more importantly spread the word of our existence to other ogres.¡±

    Caldor beams with pride and says, ¡°Excellent, when do we leave?¡±

    Wren giggles and replies, ¡°If you would like tomorrow, but I¡¯d rather spend a few days here before I leave for the Kingdom of Leair.¡±

    The elders hide their smiles of excitement and satisfaction as Caldor quietly says, ¡°Alone?¡±

    Wren guiltily says, ¡°I can travel that much faster alone. Besides, I-,¡± Wren grits her teeth and unhappily hisses, ¡°-I look like an elf.¡±

    Seeing Wren¡¯s eyes downtrodden expression, Brody hastily says, ¡°Matriarch, you look nothing like those skinny twigs! You are tall like us and well curved like our women, unlike those flat bean poles!¡±

    Caldor¡¯s eyes darken with rage as if saying, ¡°Why are you even looking at my great-granddaughter¡¯s body in such a way, old man?! I will kill you!¡±

    Wren smiles ruefully and says, ¡°Well, that is certainly true.¡±

    The elders smile at each other with glee as they whisper with excitement. The elders excitedly discuss how to keep this under wraps from the youngsters but inform the adults of the village. With the elders all filled with glee, the meeting ends as they rush away to start the preparations for next year¡¯s spring move.

 * Chapter (4) â€“ South

    Two weeks later, Wren once more waves goodbye and heads south. The journey to the Kingdom of Leair is that much easier as Wren took the dwarven backroads through the Tessa Mountain Range without having to pass through Olden-Rise. As Wren passes through the kingdom of Leair, Wren periodically pauses at large villages to learn present news and just what had transpired in the kingdom during the last eight years. Wren didn¡¯t learn much other than that the kingdom¡¯s prince¡¯s wives had given birth to children and that the only princess had been married off to a foreign prince.

    Wren did smile a bit at learning that the crown prince¡¯s wife, the crown princess had given birth to two daughters and a son. ¡°Huh, I guess I do have some half-siblings after all,¡± Wren though to herself with a rueful grin. However, all too soon her excitement died down and grew quiet for the closer Micaellis neared, the quieter Wren became. Perhaps, some subconscious part of her still couldn¡¯t forget the events that had so tragically transpired there.

    -28<sup>th</sup> day of the 9<sup>th</sup> month of 1527

    It was early morning when Wren arrived at the bridge crossing of the Thorpe River. Wren is silent as she eyes the reconstructed bridge that held no scent of the events that had transpired there. With a somewhat heavy heart, Wren steps onto the bridge to find that she is easily able to cross over without any sort of trepidation.

    Wren sadly smiles and whispers, ¡°I suppose you wouldn¡¯t want that, would you?¡± And as if in reply a gentle morning breeze caresses her cheek, before fluttering on high.

    Wren snorts and briskly picks up her pace lest she is caught by the morning line that always formed at the gate toll booths. By the time the sun begins to peek over the horizon, Wren reaches the city tolls via the east gate. At the gate, there is a much older burly guard and a new guard at his side.

    Wren smiles at the kind burly guard, who blinks in familiarity unable to recognize her. ¡°That will be 1 silver,¡± the young guard said. Wren hands the silver coin, before heading past as the older guard remains blankly staring afterward.

    The younger nudges the older guard and says, ¡°That girl was pretty fine, wasn¡¯t she?¡±

    The older guard warily shakes his head and says, ¡°Maybe, but there was something about her that seemed so familiar from long ago.¡±

    ¡°Nope, I wouldn¡¯t have forgotten such a pretty filly like her, no sir,¡± the younger guard muttered, before roguishly saying, ¡°Maybe, she reminds you of a side pleasure trip behind your wife¡¯s back, huh?¡±

    The older guard smacks the younger head on the noggin in reply. The younger guard winces and rubs his aching head. ¡°Sheesh, no need to get rough,¡± the younger guard mumbled under his breath as they got back to work.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

    Wren winds through the crowd and only stops to ask for directions before continuing. Wren finally arrives at her destination to find the guild completely empty except for a sleepy looking man at the desk. The sleepy man yawns and says, ¡°How can I help you?¡±

    Wren politely answers, ¡°I would like to create a mercenary group.¡±

    ¡°Name and symbol,¡± the sleepy man said as he took a quill and pen.

    ¡°The Fiends and the symbol a sword clenched in hand,¡± Wren replied.

    The sleepy man raises his brow but does not comment at the response. ¡°Alright, now what type of mercenary group will this be?¡±

    ¡°Escorts and bodyguards.¡±

    ¡°Okay, what rank will they be registred at?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the highest that can be bought?¡±

    ¡°A C-Class rank for 1,000 Gold coins.¡±

    Wren was already aware of the price and takes out the prepared bag with that exact amount. Placing the pouch onto the desk, Wren says, ¡°Very well, please issue the registered mercenary cards for me.¡±

    The sleepy man yawns and takes the payment to count. Satisfied, the sleepy man chants a spell over the registered items as the various prepared items become printed with the information on the spelled sheet of paper. The sleepy hands over the registered card with the mercenary group information as well a bag full of pins now registered with the emblem of the mercenary group. ¡°Just have your guys wear them in a visible place to show that they are registered mercenaries,¡± the sleepy man said.

    Wren takes the bag and card in hand, before politely nodding in thanks and walking out of the door. Once out of sight, Wren places the items into her space ring, before heading to her next destination. Wren¡¯s feet guide her by memory to the pleasure district.

    The cobbled streets are the same as ever with the only new features are the new changes to the pleasure houses. At this early hour, the area is quiet as Wren rather lonely makes her way through the street. Wren pauses in the near distance and gazes at the once familiar pleasure house. At a nearby corner, an old wizened maid sweeps the front steps of the pleasure house.

    Wren walks over and says, ¡°Excuse me, Ma¡¯am. I am looking for old friends of my brother, two pleasure girls by the name of Scarlett or Lumi, who once resided at Madam Norialise¡¯s place. Are they still there?¡±

    The wizened maid makes a rubbing motion with her two fingers and Wren quickly hands over two copper coins. The wizened maid instantly pockets the coins and says, ¡°I remember those two well. The half-elf girl was sold to some pervert with a fetish for cripples and died about five years ago. As for the fairy girl-,¡± the old maid a tsk-tsk sound. ¡°It was just that girl¡¯s poor luck as she was one of the most promising courtesans in the capital, but two years ago she caught the eye of some foreign prince. That prince treated her well enough, but for some unknown reason, the prince had her killed. Bah, men are all the same,¡± the old maid spat on to the ground in emphasis of her spoken words.

    Wren¡¯s heart stills with sadness at the cold, stark realization. She had truly hoped that had not been the case all these eight years, but she knew the rules, very few ever left the brothels alive. ¡°Thank you,¡± Wren quietly says before walking away.

    The old maid shrugs and goes back to her sweeping. It wasn¡¯t a bad start to her long that had already earned her a bite to eat and a pint to drink. And in her line of work, that was pretty good.

 * Chapter (5) â€“ Purchase

    Still, in shock, Wren stopped at a street vendor to eat breakfast. Before she knew it, Wren had eaten over twenty dishes leaving the other customers in shock. Wren sheepishly paid for her meal and ran off lest she is followed given her large appetite.

    Wren walks through the busy street and sighs to herself, ¡°It¡¯s fine to mourn them, but if I want to save those like them I have to fulfill my own part.¡±

    Full of vigor, Wren makes her way back through the streets and hears an interesting bit of gossip. ¡°Did you hear the slave market captured a dragon?¡± A man whispered to another.

    Wren instantly slows down and intently listens to the man whisper, ¡°I hear they¡¯re holding a private auction later this evening.¡±

    Wren shrugs her head and through she was just as curious to see a dragon, she had no desire to purchase the dragon. Besides, given the dragon¡¯s worth, there would be no way she would be able to outbid the kingdom¡¯s nobility nor the merchant class. However, Wren¡¯s spark of interest had begun to burn, after all, this was a once in a life time event. The least she could do is peek at the dragon as it was clearly for research purposes.

    With that in mind, Wren strolled off to the slave quarters. Wren kept a poker face on the entire time lest her true emotions of rage, pity, and disgust show on her face. Wren is furious at seeing all the poor captives in chains and cages, but even with all her might, Wren knew she was no match for the entire forces of the capital. With that in mind, Wren found herself keeping her eyes downcast most of the time to ignore the despairing eyes of the children.

    Wren suddenly pauses at catching a glimpse of goblins for sale. But that was not truly what captivated, rather within the group of caged goblins a small goblin child plays with a complicated metal puzzle. With clever nimble fingers, the child puts the puzzle together before dismantling the puzzle once more.

    Wren¡¯s eyes gleam as she recalls the ancient records held in Master Aram¡¯s study. Once long ago, after the fall, but before the first Fallen apostle, there was an ancient, mighty goblin kingdom. These goblins were not like their demonic brethren but were clever and bold enough to able to create an empire where the very buildings reached the sky. However, their empire was destroyed in a single night, when the Frost spell was cast as the goblins found themselves without enough food and supplies to sustain the kingdom. The ancient kingdom was wracked with internal warfare and by the end, the land had become an inhabitable wasteland. However, remnants of their civilization were still found and greatly prized by the dwarven craftsman. On more than one occasion, Wren had heard the dwarves swear that would have loved to meet fellow legendary craftsmen.

    Uncertain, but willing to make a bet, Wren bends down on the dirty cobbled stone street. Seeing Wren so near the goblin child, the anxious goblin mother pulls her child into her arms. In the common tongue, Wren asks, ¡°Are you members of the ancient Tower Tribe?¡±

    The surrounding goblins blink with shock and fear as they gather together. An old grizzled goblin in rags motions to able-bodied goblins, who carefully help him to his feet. The goblins make way as the elderly goblin limps towards Wren and stops. ¡°It rare for our tribe to be recognized, Elven child.  How did you recognize us?  Not many know still know us in this era and simply treat us like our lesser intelligent cousins.¡±

    Wren frowns at the elven term and replies, ¡°Not elf, but Ogre.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± the old goblin mused. ¡°I stand corrected, my apologies.¡±

    Wren nods accepting the apology and says, ¡°I recognized you from my master¡¯s collection as he held an ancient manuscript that described your ancient kingdom.¡±

    The old goblin sighs and says, ¡°Yes, that was long ago. Now we cannot even protect our village much less pass down our ancient craft.¡±Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

    Wren eyes gleam with excitement and narrow her eyes at them. ¡°Old one, I will buy you and in exchange give me your sworn loyalty,¡± Wren proposed.

    The old goblin chokes and says, ¡°Even if you did, what place will have us? We are vermin in the eyes of the rest of the realms.¡±

    ¡°My people will, I swear it as the Frost Ogre Clan Head,¡± Wren solemnly declared.

    The old goblin widens his eyes and says, ¡°Show me the mark of the Clan Head.¡±

    Wren carefully glances around before opening her mouth to reveal the second set of teeth. Her second set of teeth glint brightly in the sunlight, before vanishing. The old goblin¡¯s eyes widen in delight and shock as a crooked smile appears on his face. ¡°Aye, Matriarch, we will swear our loyalty and follow ye,¡± the old goblin truthfully proclaimed.

    Wren reaches her hand into the cage as the old goblin firmly clasps her hand despite old age. ¡°Abide by the ancient rules,¡± they both said in their own tongues. ¡°Loyalty, honor, courage, we will share our lives together until the last of us are gone. May the gods smite us if this vow is broken, so mote be.¡± A golden like binding of power can suddenly be felt as Wren feels the bindings of power that connected her to her clansman gain new additions. The goblins in the cage grin back revealing their pointed teeth causing on lookers to shiver in horror.

    Wren rises to her feet and approaches a bored looking slave merchant apprentice idly picking his nose.  ¡°I wish to buy all of these goblins,¡± Wren coldly instructed.

    The slave apprentice gapes and hastily says, ¡°Um, I need to grab my master.¡± The slave apprentice hurries into the tent and returns with his master, a portly greasy looking man. The greasy looking man eyes Wren with lust filled eyes causing Wren¡¯s face to grow colder. ¡°That will be 150 silvers,¡± the sleazy slave merchant bodily declared.

    ¡°A goblin is only worth 15 copper coins at most and there are only fifty of them. At most these goblins are worth 8 silvers at best,¡± Wren retorted.

    ¡°Ah, but if you purchase them for 150 silvers, I will throw in an entry invitation to the slave auction held tonight,¡± the sleazy slave merchant countered.

    ¡°No, I can gain that invitation free of cost,¡± Wren flatly retorted.

    The sleazy merchant narrows his eyes and counter-offers, ¡°100 silvers.¡±

    ¡°10 silvers.¡±

    ¡°55 silvers and not a coin less.¡±

    ¡°30 silvers, my final offer.¡±

    ¡°Deal,¡± the sleazy slave merchant said with a satisfied smile.

    Wren with swift fingers reaches into her pouch, before holding out the payment in hand and out of reach. ¡°The slave contract and invitation, first,¡± Wren growled.

    The sleazy merchant points at his apprentice, who hurries inside and returns with a pile of slave contracts and a red invitation. Wren first carefully counts the contracts and invitation to verify whether they are authentic. Satisfied, Wren hands over the payment and asks, ¡°Is there a place to store my slaves until tomorrow?

    ¡°There is a slave stable, merely two streets down,¡± the slave merchant sniggered. ¡°A pleasure doing business, Miss.¡±

    Wren ignores the lust filled gaze at her backside as the apprentice opens the door and Wren leads the goblin slaves away to the slave stables. Wren eyes the tired goblins and ensures they are given a warm room and food for the night as she pays extra for good treatment.

    Seeing as the evening is still far off, Wren roamed through the slave quarters to pass the time, before finally stopping at an inn to wait. It was late evening when Wren finally got up and left the inn. Wren shudders with pity at spotting various naked female slaves being lined up. With a frown, Wren paused next to a nearby slave trader and inquired, what was going on?

    ¡°Those girls are the lowest valued female slaves. After having not been sold in six months, they have outlived their worth and it will be counter cost effective to keep them. So, they will be culled to make room for new products,¡± the slave merchant plainly stated.

    Wren couldn¡¯t save everyone, but there some things even Wren couldn¡¯t idly stand by and just watch. ¡°Wait,¡± Wren shouted to the leader of the guards.

    The slave guard leader stops as Wren says, ¡°I will buy all of them. How much do they cost?¡±

    The slave guard leader an honest man despite his profession replies, ¡°Miss, these women are low-level slaves, they¡¯re not trained nor beauties nor have any skills of great worth. These female slaves are of absolutely, no value.¡±

    ¡°I am in urgent need of servants,¡± Wren lied.

    ¡°Very well, there are 35 women valued at 1 silver a piece,¡± the slave leader plainly stated.

    Wren reaches into her pouch and tosses a gold coin at the leader. ¡°For your honesty,¡± Wren said with a polite smile, despite feeling sick to her stomach.

    The leader nods and says, ¡°Unlock the chains and get the slave contracts. Also, bring a change of clothes for them.¡± Some of the women burst into tears in relief, while others remain as dull-eyed as ever.

    Wren quickly leads the dressed women back to the slave stables and arranges a separate room for them. Wren would have loved to reassure them, but even if she had they would not have believed her. And frankly, neither did she have the time as Wren needed to reach the slave auction.

 * Chapter (6) â€“ Purchase â…¡

    At the auction, Wren carefully keeps her cloak hood up as she takes a seat in the back of the auction room. The room is filled with nobles, merchants, and even higher ranked nobles who sit in private boxes. Wren patiently waits and refuses the offered food and drink. Frankly, she didn¡¯t trust what could be possibly served to her without her knowing and most especially here.

    Finally, a bunny-eared beast woman wearing a revealing outfit emerges and says, ¡°Welcome to the Enchanted Pavilion, where we do our best to fulfill your every need!¡±

    The guests let out claps and shouts of agreement. ¡°Now, we all know what you are here for, but we always save the best for last. So, let us start with our first slave of the night,¡± the bunny-eared woman said.

    A group of men rolled out an enchanted water tank to reveal a cream-colored beauty with a fish like tail within. ¡°We have found a rare mermaid and kept her alive. Due to this lovely mermaid maiden¡¯s rarity, the bidding will start at 100 gold pieces,¡± the bunny woman called out.

    Instantly the bidding goes up as Wren only closes her eyes until the bidding is done. This continues for many hours until finally the last item is finally bought up for sale. ¡°Our final item of the night cost us an arm and a leg but behold a legendary dragon!¡± The bunny woman cried out.

    In a golden cage sits a man with ruby red hair to his feet in a violet robe style clothing. His skin is a tad sun-kissed with fine features and pointed black horns that curl up of his head. On his forehead are to black dots signifying something to dragon kind, but unknown to the rest of the world. But what took one¡¯s breath away are his truly beautiful gorgeous sea colored eyes that glow like the sea itself with slit pupils much like Wren¡¯s.

    Wren sadly laments the destroyed perfect beauty at seeing scars on the left side of his face. One scar crosses his eyelid, while the another starts from the side of his cheek crosses all the way down with another smaller one next to it crossing half-length of his cheek. Wren wasn¡¯t the only one as sighs of disappointment can be heard throughout the room.

    The bunny-eared girl must have caught the change in atmosphere and says, ¡°We naturally will start the bidding at 5,000 gold coins.¡±

    Strangely enough, no one dared to bid causing the bunny woman to bite her lip in vexation. It wasn¡¯t that anyone didn¡¯t want to bid, but rather no one dared too. The reason is simple, dragons had an uncanny way of finding their offspring. Sooner or later, the parents would come and then the nightmares of stories past would come alive. Frankly speaking, no one wanted to be the protagonists of that tragic fairytale.

    Wren to her own surprise and horror saw her hand rise on its own. ¡°7,000 gold coins to be instantly bought out,¡± Wren in appalled shock heard herself say.

    The bunny woman eagerly says, ¡°Sold to the bidder in the back.¡± Wren and everyone gaped because frankly speaking, that must have been the cheapest item of the night. But even more ironic, the dragon valued in millions had been bought for a measly 7,000 gold coins.

    Wren was still in shock when she paid for the dragon and was given the high-level slave contract. To be perfectly honest, Wren did not even have a memory of making it back to the slave stable with the dragon. By the time, Wren came to it was dawn and the slaves were all loaded on purchased mounts.

    With dawn over the horizon, Wren hastily left the capital lest anyone from last night change their minds and come after her. The flying griffins swiftly carried them away causing Wren to almost weep at the loss of money once she realized the griffin¡¯s cost. The only bright side to the situation, at least the griffins were edible purchases if need be.

    The several week''s long journeys only took one week on the back of the Griffins. And would have been less except Wren would often backtrack to cover their tracks as she was taking the dwarven hidden paths. Finally, on the 15<sup>th</sup> day, the village could be spotted in the air as Wren carefully led the griffins down below to land.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    Caldor instantly sweeps Wren off her griffin and gives her a bone-crushing hug. The elders eagerly smile with relief at the Matriarch¡¯s return, while the village children gaze up at the griffins with hunger in their eyes. To a hungry Ogre, just about anything is edible.

    The griffins must have sensed the hungry gazes as their wings flutter nervously behind them. Wren suddenly remembers the people behind her and hurriedly aids the goblin elder to the ground. ¡°This is my Frost Clan,¡± Wren said in common tongue. ¡°Frost Clan, there are my new vassals the Tower Tribe.¡±

    Caldor and the elders bow graciously to the elderly goblin who bows back and says, ¡°This lowly one is Garlick.¡±

    ¡°We received your message and have prepared places for you,¡± Caldor politely said.

    Garlick eyes gleam with moisture and says, ¡°Thank you.¡±

    Wren takes out the woman¡¯s slave contracts and destroys them. The goblins had long since been destroyed, but Wren hadn¡¯t wanted to worry about the women getting hurt in an attempt to escape and had kept them. Wren finally turns to the enslaved woman and says, ¡°My apologies but as you can see this is my home village. If you would like you may stay and reside here with us, but if not, I will send you with a pouch of money and a griffin on your way.¡±

    The women stare at each other with disbelief and uncertainty until a brave female steps forth and says, ¡°Some of us were sold by our parents and families while of others of us are the survivors of bandit raids. Most of us no longer have homes to return to and those that do have no wish to return. If we stay, will your Og-, your men force themselves upon us?¡±

    The men of the village grunt with disgust as the women snort in disdain.  Wren wryly answers, ¡°Our village was originally a matriarch village and the women in the village always have the final say when choosing a husband. So, unless you wish for it, not a single man will lay a finger on you.¡±

    A young woman about 12 years old and already almost as tall as a man steps out and says, ¡°And if they did, we the women of the village would crush them.¡± The teenage girl violently cracks her knuckles in emphasis as the women behind her grunt in agreement. The previously enslaved women are quickly taken away by the ogre women to wash and bathe. By the end of their baths, the formerly enslaved women were already friends with the village women.

    Wren sighs in relief at seeing the women go until Brody says, ¡°Nice. We were worried about finding a proper spouse for you, Matriarch as no one in the village is strong enough to match you. But it looks like we don¡¯t have to worry about that anymore since you brought back a strong fellow.¡±

    Wren suddenly pales as she recalls the dragon whose name she still did not know. Wren hastily protests to the comment, ¡°No, I just bought him on a whim. Sorry, what I mean to say is that I was meaning to free him all this time, but I was in such a hurry to return that and I forgot.¡± However, the village elders all have smiles on their faces as if unconvinced by her words.

    Wren hastily pulls out the magic contract and destroys it, before the dragon. Wren apologetically bows and says, ¡°I apologize for my lapse in judgment I had meant to explain myself, but I wasn¡¯t sure if you would believe my words. Either way, I apologize for my lapse in manners.¡± Wren lifts her head and points to the horizon. ¡°You are free to leave whenever you desire,¡± Wren truthfully said. ¡°And you don¡¯t owe me or anyone in the village anything else.¡±

    The dragon is quite startled and carefully eyes Wren before getting off the griffin. ¡°You have my thanks,¡± the dragon politely replied.

    Wren was surprised at the gentle voice as Caldor gruffly mutters under his breath, ¡°My Wren doesn¡¯t need a husband yet, she¡¯s much too young for that sort of thing.¡±

    Wren bows once more in an apology to the dragon and turns to move away, when Wren feels a tug on her shoulder. Wren turns back in surprise to see the dragon hold out a strange rainbow-colored pearl in his hand.  ¡°Here to show my sincerity,¡± the dragon steadfastly said.

    ¡°No, I already believed your sincere words the first time,¡± Wren firmly retorted as she wraps his hand around the rainbow-colored pearl. Wren may not have known what the pearl was, but it must be very precious as the dragon was offering it in thanks. Either way, Wren hadn¡¯t done it to gain a reward as it really was just on a whim and for that, she should not be rewarded.

    The dragon carefully takes back the pearl in thought as he carefully further studies Wren. A skin tingle lightly felt causes Wren to become wary at feeling the warning sign. The dragon suddenly smiles causing Wren to become breathless momentarily. ¡°My name is Cloud,¡± the dragon said before gracefully leaping into the sky with a strong gust of wind.

    Wren gapes in wonder as do the villagers as they see a gorgeous red dragon flying off into the distance. ¡°Huh, almost worth it all,¡± Wren muttered to herself as she saw the figure rapidly fading away into the distance.

    Agnes chuckles quietly to herself, ¡°Ah, it looks like the Matriarch has already gained herself a suitor.¡± Had anyone else heard her, they probably would have laughed it off with the exception of Caldor. Caldor would have surely threatened murder upon the dragon should he return. But who knows maybe the wise old woman would be right in the end only time would tell.

 * Interlude â€“ Crown Prince Noelâ€™s Report

    In the capital of Micaellis, the Crown Prince Noel tosses a goblet at a courier. ¡°What do you mean that you can¡¯t find the buyer?¡± The crown prince roared.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Sire. But the slave merchant guild can only state the dragon has since been freed,¡± the miserably looking courier said.

    ¡°Get out!¡± Crown Prince Noel roared as the miserably looking courier ran for his life. ¡°Useless,¡± the Noel said as he flopped back in his chair. Noel crossly taps his finger in vexation as he thinks about what he could have done with a slave dragon. He had been so certain that no one would have dared to buy the dragon given the risks. And after the auction with ease, he would have been able to purchase the dragon in secret. Then when the parents of the dragon appeared, he would have ransomed the dragon offspring back to the parents. That was how it had always been done by those in power for even the dragons feared for the lives of their rare offspring being killed. But not only had that plan been ruined but to top it all off, the blasted buyer had already set the dragon free!

    The doors can be heard opening as the Noel coldly roars, ¡°Did I not order not to be disturbed by anyone!¡±

    ¡°I know my love,¡± a soft melodic female voice said.

    Crown Prince Noel instantly sits up at seeing the gorgeous figure of his wife, Crown Princess Moria. Despite having given birth to two daughters and a son, Moria was still as ravishing as ever. With a figure that left men staring and a tiny waist that made one think it was impossible that she had ever even given birth. Moria was still one of the kingdom¡¯s greatest beauties.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my dear, I didn¡¯t know it was you,¡± Noel instantly apologized.

    ¡°I know dearest one,¡± Moria softly said as she gently poured a wine glass for him. ¡°Here love, drink.¡±

    Noel takes a sip and says, ¡°You always know exactly what to do and say, dear. How do you do it?¡±

    Moria merely smiles and says, ¡°Practice, dearest one.¡±

    Noel chuckles and says, ¡°If only things were so easy.¡±

    Moria takes a seat in a chair next to him and says, ¡°Tell me, love, what is wrong?¡±

    ¡°The dragon I was to buy has been sold and set free,¡± Noel bitterly replied.

    Moria frowns and says, ¡°And what of the buyer?¡±

    ¡°The buyer has long since left the kingdom,¡± Noel bitterly exclaimed.

    ¡°And the identity of the buyer?¡± Moria asked.

    ¡°All that has been found is that the buyer is not a resident of the kingdom and arrived that same day and left the next morning,¡± Noel replied.

    ¡°Oh, a spy of an opposing kingdom?¡± Moria inquired.

    ¡°Impossible, the dragon was only caught a few days before and the distance is far too great for them to arrive on such short notice,¡± Noel drily stated.

    Moria thoughtfully ponders the discussion and says, ¡°Then what of agents inside our borders?¡±

    Noel sits up and asks, ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°What if the buyer was here representing another vassal within the kingdom? And what if the reason the dragon is free because the parent has already ransomed the child? Could it not be possible that there is a hidden enemy that is planning a rebellion against the royal family?¡± Moria pointedly argued.

    ¡°Yes, that would perfectly fit with the suspicious situation at hand,¡± Noel fervently agreed. ¡°Thank you, my love!¡± Noel quickly places a kiss on Moria¡¯s cheek, before rushing to see his father, the King.

    Moria merely quietly brushes out her skirt and elegantly makes her way through the palace. At the front entrance, a prepared carriage is already waiting for her, before setting off at a rapid pace. The carriage quickly makes its way to its destination the manor of Duke Morgan.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    A trained footman in the Duke¡¯s livery opens the carriage door the instant the carriage halts as Moria daintily climbs down and makes her way to her father¡¯s private quarters. Carefully knocking, Moria waits for her father¡¯s permission to enter. ¡°Come in, I¡¯ve been expecting you,¡± Duke Morgan said.

    Moria quickly enters her father¡¯s study and takes a seat before him. ¡°Well?¡± Duke Morgan curtly asked.

    ¡°It¡¯s just as we thought the dragon had already been set free, but I have already planted the idea of an enemy in the kingdom,¡± Moria said with a smile.

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Duke Morgan said.

    ¡°Have you already planted the evidence, father?¡± Moria inquired.

    Duke Morgan frowns and says, ¡°That is not a subject for you to be concerned about.¡±

    ¡°I was only asking, father,¡± Moria unhappily replied.

    Duke Morgan leans back and says, ¡°I know Moria, but the less you know the less you will be suspected.¡±

    ¡°Very well, father. Is there anything else you will have me do?¡± Moria asked as she rose to her feet.

    ¡°That fairy girl from the brothel, Lumi, was it you that had her killed?¡± Duke Morgan interjected.

    ¡°Why the interest, father? That incident happened two years ago,¡± Moria retorted.

    ¡°Prince Sergio has sent someone to inquire about her again,¡± Duke Morgan chided.

    Moria laughs with contempt, ¡°Why would the Crown Princess of the Kingdom be afraid of a mere whore, father? It is simply preposterous!¡±

    Duke Morgan leans back in his seat and says, ¡°You know very well the reason why. Not only was Prince Sergio taking that whore as his bride, but that bride in question knew about your past folly.¡±

    Moria takes a step back as Duke Morgan coldly adds, ¡°The correct answer would have been to set the entire brothel aflame to conceal the folly of your youth, but that would be impossible given how many high-ranking patrons patronize the brothel. Therefore, the next step would have been to slowly poison that whore in secret as none would know the better. However, the incorrect answer would have been to have her so blatantly killed the eyes of other witnesses.¡±

    Moria weakly staggers back into a chair and glares at her father. ¡°I had forgotten all about it!¡± Moria hissed with fury. ¡°But then, that whore appeared at the ball. And when I chided her that whore had the arrogance to sneer down her nose at me and tell me that I should not be the one talking.¡± Moria¡¯s slit eyes narrow with rage as she hisses, ¡°I was infuriated, yes, but that whore had the audacity to force me to recall those events which I had erased with my own hands! And though the only relief then to me, is knowing that man and bastard are both dead alike!¡± Roaring shrilly, Moria as if lost in a trance roar, ¡°So yes, father, I did what had to be done to keep her loose lips, permanent SHUT!¡±

    Duke Morgan rises to his feet and suddenly slaps his daughter, Moria blinks in shock and surprise as she touches her inflamed, red cheek. ¡°That is for forgetting your place, Moria,¡± Duke Morgan flatly said. ¡°You are a noble and even if that whore dared to speak of it none would have believed her as there is no proof. A noble¡¯s character is never questioned unless there is proof. It would have only been seen as a baseless rumor. But more importantly, the Crown Prince would have vouched for your honor! So not only did you do a most foolish thing my daughter, but one that may have far more dangerous consequences as being the one held directly responsible for Prince Sergio¡¯s fianc¨¦''s death.¡±

    Moria bites her lips as Duke Morgan frostily continues, ¡°Should Prince Sergio ever find out it will not just be your head that will hang but the entire kingdom¡¯s! For without a doubt, Prince Sergio will go to his brother, King Elbert and as King Elbert¡¯s only sibling, King Elbert out of anger and brotherly love will declare war on us! And I can assure you, should that day come, the King will have our entire household killed before him before the kingdom falls. And then my daughter, I wonder if you will still think that whore was of no importance?!¡±

    Moria meekly bows her head and says, ¡°What must I do father?¡±

    ¡°Nothing for the moment,¡± Duke Morgan flatly said. ¡°But do make sure to rid yourself of any loose ends that still have yet to snipped in the bud.¡±

    ¡°I will take care of that as soon as it is permitted,¡± Moria hastily responded.

    ¡°Yes, but first put some blush into those cheeks. You look horribly pallid and you must look like yourself before you leave. I will not have gossip following after your departure!¡± Duke Morgan sternly reproached.

    ¡°Yes, father,¡± Moria coolly said as she did as she is told and composed herself. Bowing, Moria soberly says, ¡°I am always in your care, father,¡± before turning away and departing.

    Duke Morgan turns to the window and watches his daughter depart in the carriage bell. Duke Morgan studies the window for some time until a quiet servant door and steps inside. ¡°Milord, you called?¡± The gaunt looking servant asked.

    ¡°My daughter will soon become rather ill and it would be a shame if she died,¡± Duke Morgan quietly said.

    The gaunt man nods his head and says, ¡°I will send the best physicians to the Crown Princess.¡±

    ¡°See that it is done,¡± Duke Morgan said, before taking a seat back at his desk. His entire family¡¯s centuries worth of planning would not be destroyed because of a single daughter. With peace of mind once more restored, Duke Morgan returned to his plans as he sketched out every detail for nothing to go wrong.

 * Chapter (7) â€“ Reunion

    -12<sup>th</sup> day of the 10<sup>th</sup> month of 1527

    With only just having returned, Wren once more set out to towards the dwarven kingdom of Hallstatt, before the first snows came and it almost became impossible to traverse due to the heavy snows. Caldor heavily protested as Wren had only just returned, but the Elders agreed that with the wise idea that it would be better for the Matriarch to set out and return before the first snow¡¯s fall. With that in mind, Wren took the entire troop of Gryphons with her with a plan in mind, while the villagers built additional temporary winter homes.

    Rather than heading to Master Aram¡¯s place, Wren set out for the dwarven city. Leaving the griffins at a dwarven outpost above ground, Wren easily made her way down through the highway down below and grins at the incredibly detailed walls and magical crystals in the walls that lit the smooth, trodden roads.

    With a sigh, Wren emerges from the highway tunnel into a large stone city built with towering spirals and brightly lit magical crystals that lit the city as though it was daytime. The city is filled with glowing shops connected to craftsman forging smitheries and more. The dwarven children run across the slick dark paved roads playing with mechanical toys and other types of toys. The streets are filled with buyers as carriages pulled by reptilian creatures carry the wealthier or more impatient dwarves through the city. And frankly speaking, dwarves were not ones to hold their temper, patience was not a virtue nor an ability, but rather a one in a million miraculous character trait.

    Wren makes her way down familiar streets as familiar residents begin to appear. Most of them wave, but the craftsmen, in particular, call out to jest and tease, ¡°Wren, you better not be going to the craftsman quarters again?¡±

    ¡°Why?¡± Wren impishly yelled back.

    ¡°Because if you are, please let me know so I can stay clear of the explosion!¡± The craftsman called out causing the rest to break out in laughter.

    Wren snorts at the reply and sticks her tongue at them causing those teasing her to roar that much louder in laughter. ¡°I take that as a firm, yes,¡± another dwarf called out.

    Ignoring their good-natured teases, Wren smiles and waves goodbye to them as she makes her to the home of her magic master, Aquila. Wren firmly knocks on the door as Wren had quickly learned early on during her mentorship that not knocking on the door led to things that could never be unseen by ones horrified eyes. Thankfully, Aquila is alone when she opens the door.

    The very petite, heavily curved Aquila squeals in delight as Wren kneels down to be hugged. Aquila excitedly tosses her blond hair over her shoulder as her emerald eyes sparkle with delight. ¡°How lucky, Aram just arrived a few days ago and is still in the city!¡± Aquila squealed.You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.

    Despite being pint-sized, the size of a dwarf, Aquila firmly drags Wren away to the current residence of Aram. Wren actually pales at seeing where Aram was staying at. The home wasn¡¯t hideous, but elegant and well-crafted denoting wealth. But what bothered Wren, was rather whose home it is, the craftsman guild leader¡¯s residence, Augustus Stone. Augustus and Wren did not get along for one single reason, because Wren was a phantom of destruction.

    ¡°Maybe, I should just wait at your place,¡¯ Wren feebly protested.

    ¡°Nonsense,¡± Aquila pointedly declared as she knocked on the front door. ¡°And if that bully says anything I¡¯ll freeze his beard off!¡± Aquila triumphantly added.

    ¡°Only you would dare,¡± Wren deadpanned. ¡°Because I wouldn¡¯t.¡±

    The door swings open to reveal a face like iron, a short muscular body, and a gray beard with unyielding harsh eyes. Aquila sweetly says, ¡°My dear student¡¯s master, my cousin, is here. May we come in to see him?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Augustus said without hesitation and moved to slam the door.

    Aquila emerald eyes glow dangerously as Aquila firmly sticks her foot in the doorway and shoves the door open.  ¡°Care to say that again to my face, Augustus?¡± Aquila ominously growled.

    Wren immediately retreats backward at seeing the incoming battle. ¡°You heard me the first time, I said, NO!¡± Augustus steadfastly roared back.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s going to be like that is it?¡± Aquila pointedly said as she rolled up her sleeves.

    Augustus firmly plants himself in the doorway and raises his own fists up. ¡°Bring it on, wench,¡± Augustus growled.

    Wren solemnly considers if perhaps, she should seek a strong shelter, before she is dragged into this violent dispute. Suddenly a firm hand pinches Augustus ear as a short, sturdy woman with chin-length salt and pepper colored hair, drags Augustus inside. Smiling gently, Medila, Augustus¡¯s wife and council member of the Craftsmen guild said, ¡°Augustus, what have I told you about using foul language in this household?¡±

    Augustus winces as he rubs his sore ear and protests, ¡°But she started it!¡±

    Medila maintains her gentle, but iron like gaze. ¡°I see dear, in which case, you still need to apologize,¡± Medila firmly ordered.

    Augustus looks like he wants to kill himself as he non-sincerely says, ¡°Sorry, Aquila.¡±

    Aquila sniffs and says, ¡°I just wanted to see my cousin and this callous husband of yours Medila picked a fight with me.¡±

    ¡°Did he now?¡± Medila said as she eyes began to glow. Augustus shrinks as Medila only points to a door as Augustus fearfully enters the nearby room. ¡°Aram is in the parlor room, you two go on ahead,¡± Medila said as she follows her husband and firmly closes the door behind her.

    Aquila snickers triumphantly, ¡°Serves your right.¡± Proudly tossing her hair over her shoulders, Aquila says, ¡°Hurry up and come in!¡±

    Wren quickly does so as she closes the door and murmurs, ¡°Medila still scares me.¡±

    ¡°Why she¡¯s such a sweet old lady?¡± Aquila said.

    Wren stares at Aquila with dumbfounded eyes. Maybe it was just Wren, but did Aquila not sense the bloodthirsty emerging from the room next door? Or better yet, why was the guild master so afraid of his wife? And Augustus Stone wasn¡¯t afraid of anything including the dwarven king!