《The Antagonist》


 [V1] Prologue - Backstory (Part 1)

    Prologue - (Part 1)


    Being the son of a retired knight was rough.


    Ever since I was little, all I could remember was hard manual labor.


    Every day I would wake up and help my mother, Linda, with the house chores and watch over my baby brother.


    Past noon, my father, Lance, would come home from the forest with the local game and have me help him prepare his catch.


    When winter approached, I was made to cut some timber and split logs for the local community.


    Day after day would past like this, until I grew older.


    ***


    When I was nine, I was taught by my by father about hunting in the wilderness and the tools to survive in the wild.


    During this time, I also began learning the way of the sword from my father.


    Every training session I attended would end up with him always antagonizing me, saying that I couldn¡¯t beat an old man who was missing his right hand.


    Later after I complained to my mother, I learned that Lance had lost his hand, while protecting a noble during a great war, and was allowed to retire early as thanks for his service.


    She also told me, that my father used to be a captain of his own squadron and was a graduate of a prestigious school that taught the sword. In other words, I would be subjected to military training.


    However, complaining didn¡¯t change the fact that I was forcibly made to wield a wooden sword and start my training as a squire.


    ***


    More years flew by, until a great plague washed over the kingdom.


    The plague started off as coughs then a fever, and the victims would die with red rashes all over their bodies.


    Then the first signs of this epidemic appeared in our community when, our neighbors started to have these coughing fits, and soon became bedridden.


    Fearing I would become sick, I was told not to go over to places like this and made to stay home in my free time.


    But one day, after checking the snares in the forest, and heading straight home, I discovered my younger brother, William, collapsed in front of the wood pile.


    After dragging him back that day, my family attempted to treat his symptoms, but William just grew weaker and weaker, and no matter what my father attempted, he wouldn¡¯t get better.


    Finally, after a month, my father packed up and took William into town, looking for an old acquaintance to see if he could help heal him.


    ***


    Then two months flew by, and my father finally came back, without William.


    Later that night, I remember hearing Linda crying softly to herself while I was looking up to the sky, praying to one of the many gods as to why he had to take my little brother away from me.


    Ever since that day, I became the only child of the family.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    ***


    Years then continued to role by, and the number of monster related incidents started to rise, causing my father to be continuously conscripted into the local militia for combat purposes.


    Every night since then, I can remember him coming home, smelling like dirt and alcohol, while visibly looking more aged with the passing of months.


    Then when I was fifteen years old, I was finally taught everything my father knew about the sword, and was rewarded with one as my very own.


    ***


    Finally, the day before my sixteenth birthday, my whole world changed.


    That day started like every other, waking up, helping my weary mother around the house, and going out to the forest to check on the snares I have placed.


    But, during that time, I saw smoke coming from farther inside the forest.


    Quickly glancing around, I picked up the dead hares, before tying them up onto a branch before rushing to the scene.


    Running swiftly through the eerily quiet forest, I began to hear the sounds of metal clashing and a roaring beast. Within the next few seconds, I came upon the sight of the village¡¯s militia battling a great demonic beast.


    This monster had big bulging muscles, with a vermillion colored body. It was six meters long with a body like a boar and a head of a disfigured jackal. On its head where two demonic horns, stained with blood and a single bulging eye, dyed black.


    Then suddenly, it charged into a blur, as I witnessed it decimating everything in its path, only leaving familiar faces contorted in pain as their limbs were tangled up in the nearby shrubbery.


    Then I saw my father jumping in front of the crazed beast, blocking its charged with his blade, forcing him to slide on the ground as the monstrosity grounded to a halt.


    This gave an opening, for the remaining militia to plunge their spears into its thick hide, before they snapped there flint tips into its flesh.


    Overcome with pain, the beast stopped and gave a low painful howl, before it whipped its bony tail around, crushing anyone in its path.


    When more people disappeared into the scenery, the beast quietly stood still. Then the atmosphere changed and went silent, as the red devil started rearing back on its feet before its blackened eye started to pulse unnaturally.


    Suddenly, my father yelled, ¡°Don¡¯t look at it!¡±


    Quickly closing my eyes, I felt a disgusting feeling pickling my skin and in the next moment, when I opened my eyes, half of the militia were on the ground clawing at their own skin.


    They were screaming in pain, as they attempted to claw something out from underneath their skin.


    Finally I realized that this was some sort of magic. Quickly I took a double take on my condition before I redirected my sight back to the monster.


    That is when I noticed the beast, attempting to find a path to escape to.


    Not knowing what to do, I made contact with my father¡¯s eyes, and he mouthed, ¡°Dustin, cut him off!¡±


    With those three words, I resolved myself, as I sprinted faster than I ever did in my entire life.


    Suddenly I made my way to a nearby tree it was charging towards; where I readied my longsword as I hid in cover, waiting for the moment to ambush it.


    Silently, filtering out all of the yells and screams, I sensed for the beast as my heart-rate slowed down gradually.


    Five steps, four steps, three steps, two steps, one step away.


    Gripping my sword as tightly as I possibly could, I hurriedly turned the corner and ran to meet the beast head on.


    Dodging its horns by sliding on the ground, I ended up raising my sword towards its legs, managing to use its own momentum to carry the blade clean threw.


    A loud yelp later, the monster crashed into a great oak, smashing its horns clean through the tree, as two of its legs flew off into the distance.


    With blood splattered in my face, I watched as my father and a few militia ran by, pouncing onto the great demon, slashing at its neck and chest, until it was no longer animated.


    With a brief pause, I look at my first kill against a genuine monster, before I was startled out of my trance.


    ¡°You did a good job son. If it was anyone else I would have doubted if they could have caught up to this bastard.¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­? Oh, thanks dad, but what is this thing?¡±


    Kicking his boot into the fallen beast¡¯s side he gave me a long hard look before saying, ¡°Most likely a fiend, and this brings a bad omen to the area.¡±


    After a brief conversation with the rest of the group, we made a quick pace back to the village to alert the chief.


    Little did I know, that this day would mark a sharp change in the world.

 [V1] Prologue - Backstory (Part 2)

    Prologue - (Part 2)


    Upon our return to the village, we disembarked the wounded from our makeshift sleds as our appearance started to make a scene.


    In a few moments, thirty people had gathered to help treat the battered militia, before Joshua finally appeared.


    Joshua was a young chief of our village, taking up the position after his father died from the plague a few years back. At that time he was only twenty nine years old.


    He had unkempt black hair, and a five o''clock shadow. He was lean and tall, someone who you wouldn¡¯t expect to win against a warrior like my father.


    Slowly he approached my father, before stopping as both of them slowly redirected their gaze into the distance.


    Out there, past the forest and over the snow peaked mountains, a giant storm was brewing.


    Chaotic flashes of light spread throughout the horizon as a blackened sky slowly crept over, devouring everything in its path.


    For a moment there was a stillness in the atmosphere before Joshua addressed Lance.


    ¡°Lance, what happened during the patrol?¡±


    ¡°¡­.Chief, we were ambushed by a young fiend.¡±


    ¡°A fiend you say?¡±


    After a few seconds, Joshua looked back at my father before saying, ¡°I guess that ominous storm approaching, is driving the monsters down from the mountains to us then.¡±


    ¡°You might be right, but we won¡¯t figure out anything just standing here. I advise that we send out a few scouts before we make any rash decisions.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right, but I¡¯ll be doubling the patrol around the perimeter of the forest just in case, Lance.¡±


    ¡°What would you like me to do then?¡±


    ¡°Hm, I would like you to stay here for the night. I¡¯m having an uneasy feeling about how silent the forest has become.¡±


    ¡°All right chief, I¡¯ll keep watch in town, and howler if anything makes it past our sentries then.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± Replied Joshua before he turned around gathering the other heads of the militia and the few soldiers that were stationed here.


    After a brief announcement, everyone was advised not to enter the forest and to take up shelter before the storm approached from the horizon.


    I was then pulled back by my father as he beckoned me to follow.


    While walking back to our house Lance spoke up, ¡°Dustin you did a good job out there, but don¡¯t get over your head now. If you find one of those monsters near here, you would unfortunately find their nest or worse off, something more dangerous.¡±


    After walking in silence, we approached our front door before I asked, ¡°What are you going to do after this?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but for now both of us are going to stay here to keep watch over the house.¡±


    ***


    As the night approached, the howling of the wind grew stronger, branches bent sideways, the house creaked, and multiple shouts echoed throughout the village.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Startled out of bed, I was shaken awake by my mother.


    Looking around in the candle lit house I saw my dad readying his armor as he was peering out into the distance from the doorway.


    ¡°You awake yet son?¡±


    ¡°Nh, yeah I am now. What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but it looks like the scouts encountered something out there. So hurry up and get your gear ready.¡±


    Swiftly, I jumped up to my feet as I paced to my trunk containing my hunting gear.


    While putting on my equipment, I asked, ¡°What are we going to do father?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t really know. First we need to talk to Joshua and get an understanding of what¡¯s happening.¡±


    After getting my gear on I paused for a moment to get by bearings, before addressing Lance.


    ¡°All right, I¡¯m ready now so let¡¯s hurry.¡±


    In the next movement we both charged out of the house as we ran briskly to the villages¡¯ center.


    All around us, we could see people with torches heading the same way. And in the sky the moon was blanketed out by grey clouds as they were crackling with a purple hue.


    In five minutes, we finally made it to where the chief was stationed at.


    Once he caught sight of Lance, he hurriedly came to us before addressing my father.


    ¡°Lance! Okay, this is really bad.¡±


    ¡°What you mean Josh?¡±


    ¡°Only half of our scouts we sent out came back. And every single one of them, have reported a large movement of monsters approaching our vicinity.¡±


    ¡°You serious? This is truly dire then¡­¡±


    ¡°I know, and they are giving an, approximate confrontation with in the next two hours.¡±


    ¡°Did they at least get a good look at them?¡±


    ¡°No, unfortunately. But most of their encounters described animals as big as wolfs and some of them bigger than a bear.¡±


    ¡°If they¡¯re telling the truth then¡­I¡¯m afraid we¡¯ll have to abandon the village right now, chief. Unless we sacrifice more than a quarter of our men.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true and we are making preparations as we speak, but I¡¯m afraid to ask¡­ that we need a rear guard to pull this off.¡±


    Quietly, Lance looked into the distance where our house was, before his face turned stern as he looked at me.


    ¡°It¡¯s all right, I know I¡¯m the only one with any leadership skills here.¡±


    With a nod of approval, Joshua gave me a quick look before directing his gaze back at my father.


    ¡°Thanks Lance. I¡¯ll have twenty bodies readied within the next hour. I need to hurry with preparations, so I need to cut this conversation short.¡±


    As quickly as he appeared, Joshua ran back into the crowd and started giving out orders to the peasants.


    Slowly the rumbling of the storm picked up as rain started to soak the ground as purple lightning started to scatter with in the woods.


    After a pause, I looked up to my dad before asking, ¡°Why are you staying behind?¡±


    With a silent glance, he looked at me and smiled, ¡°You see Dustin, I¡¯m the most effective person here right now to carry this out. If someone else did this, then I¡¯m afraid that these beast will catch up and kill Linda and you son.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    I know my dad is the most suited, but he¡¯s just going to get himself killed. Even I can¡¯t talk him out of something when he sets his mind to it.


    ¡°Father, let me stay back with you.¡±


    ¡°Huh¡­ Why may I ask?¡±


    ¡°So I can drag you back. I know if I don¡¯t you¡¯ll get yourself killed and die a dog¡¯s death.¡±


    Thinking for a moment, he grasped my head and roughed my hair up before speaking.


    ¡°Dustin, you''re sixteen as of this moment. I can¡¯t tell you what to do any longer. If you want to stay, then¡­¡± silently he stared at me for a few seconds and when a flash of lightning appeared, I noticed that he was smiling as he slammed his fist into my gut.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but you¡¯re still not strong enough to not listen to me. This is for your own good.¡±


    Gasping for air, Lance hit me in the back of my head before he laid me onto the wet dirt.


    As my conscience waned out of existence, I heard him say, ¡°Forgive me for being rough, but you¡¯re just like me when I was younger, so rest for a bit.¡±


    Then shouting echoed in the distance followed by the snapping of a branch, before all went dark.

 [V1] Chapter 1 - Tomorrows Dawn (Part 1)

    Chapter 1 - (Part 1)


    Rain droplets leaked in from the clothed ceiling. Jerk after jerk awoke me from my slumber. I looked around in a groggy state as I tried to upright myself.


    Noticing purple flashes overhead, I shot my eyes wide open, realizing what has just happened.


    Clenching my fist until my knuckles went white, I cursed to myself.


    ¡°Fucking Shit!¡±


    This sudden outburst awoken those next to me who were taking refuge from the elements.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± asked a girl.


    Glancing quickly to this sudden voice, I saw my mother¡¯s disheveled face, with her brunette hair soaked, sticking to her face.


    ¡°...Sorry for waking you mom.¡±


    With a weary smile she said, ¡°It¡¯s alright Dustin, I couldn¡¯t really sleep well anyway.¡±


    Then silence continued as the bombardment of the rain drowned out all noise until I looked back up and met my mother''s gentle gaze.


    ¡°Mother, how far are we from the village?¡±


    Having a bewildered expression, she crept closer to me.


    ¡°Honey, listen. We have been riding for half of the night. So even if you try running back to your father¡­ I¡¯m afraid that you¡¯ll be too late anyway.¡±


    If only I was stronger than him. I could have forced him to come¡­.


    Interrupting my thoughts, Linda¡¯s erratic breathing caught my attention. Looking closer, her eyes were red and she still had tears coming down her face.


    Why¡­ Why did that bastard stayed back¡­


    Noticing the pained expression on my face, Linda quickly wrapped her arms around me and gently caressed my back.


    Whispering in my ear, ¡°It¡¯s okay Dustin. Please don¡¯t act like you¡¯re mad. Especially when you¡¯re crying right now.¡±


    Finally, I noticed tears dripping down my cheek. Soon after I caved in and whimpered softly as I accepted my mother''s embrace before I started to weep silently.


    However, there was a loud explosion as a purple bolt of lightning struck a nearby tree, sending it into flames, forcing me to regain a level head.


    Shortly after, the rain let up a bit, then an audible sound reverberated into the wagon, signaling something was approaching.


    Swiftly I reacted, breaking free from my mother and grabbing my sword before I charged out of the covered wagon.


    Outside and looking around I gave out a shout to awaken everyone.


    ¡°Wake up! Something is approaching from the forest!¡±


    Instantly, multiple soldiers came out of the wagons preparing themselves for whatever was approaching.


    Soon multiple branches echoed as they snapped and low grunts with a few howls grew more audible. Immediately over forty shadows appeared from the darkness.


    Silence, and only the wind blew as we stared at one another.


    Silently the flame from the burning foliage casted light into the darkness.


    With a glint of yellow eyes, the beasts started to encircle the soldiers, attempting to close all possible ways of escape.


    ¡°Monsters! Get ready!¡± yelled someone.


    Following the shout, the sound of multiple blades being drawn filled the strained atmosphere as we started to group up to fight off the attackers.


    When they got close enough, I could see that they were some type of mutated wolf. Twice as big, with a thick mane and a face of a bat.


    Being looked over with their yellow beady eyes, one of the soldiers shouted, ¡°Wargs! A whole pack of them!¡±


    Right after he announced the warning, they all pounced in unionism.


    Almost being taken down from the sudden attack, I staggered briefly in the mud regaining my foothold.


    Looking down at my side, I noticed three long claw marks running across my side, oozing blood.


    Grunting, I steadied my sword, preparing for my foes next attack.


    ¡°Come at me.¡± I whispered to myself.


    Steading my resolve, I focused my all in catching every movement of the oversized wolf. With every step it took I would mirror it, preventing it from getting another lucky blow in.


    Frustrated at our little dance, the warg gave up on ambushing and then did an all-out charge.


    Muting out everything in my surroundings, I watched as the monster turned into a silver streak.


    Slower than that fiend from yesterday. I can do this.


    Seeing the light in its eyes, the world slowed down. With a flash of thunder, illuminated the warg, showing its grotesque physic.


    With big elongated claws slashing towards my chest, it must be hoping in shredding me apart first, however, this time I am calm. So I readied myself as I placed both of my hands onto my sword¡¯s grip.


    As I continued my stance, I proceeded in lowering my sword past my knee, while I built up tension in my waist, waiting until the beast was in range.


    Second after second ticked as the smell of burnt wood filled the air, until this calmness was disrupted as my enemy let out a low growl.


    What felt like an eternity, was all I needed until the beast was within an arm''s distance.


    Looking straight into its yellow eyes, I let out a yell, before exploding upwards with my sword.


    Using my waist as a pivot my sword whistled through the air until it made a crunch, connecting with the wargs bat like face.


    Feeling my sword losing power, I took a step back and picked the beast up with the tip of my blade, simultaneously turning around throwing it against a tree.


    Glancing where the beast laid, I noticed it was motionless and was swiftly creating a puddle of its own blood.If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Knowing the worst was over for now, I kneeled down and gritted my teeth due to the wound on my side that was burning with warm blood dripping.


    After a minute to recuperate, I regained my postured, looking at the scene unfolding before me.


    All around me, beast and man were struggling against each other. Some bodies were sliced up while others were mauled to death. However, the soldiers were slowly losing ground.


    Suddenly a scream happened next to me as a man was bit on his head and was being dragged into the woods. Promptly I took up my blade and chased after the poor man.


    Sprinting until I reached the perimeter of the woods, I decisively caught up to the beast before I pierced my sword into its back. While, aiming for its heart, I succeeded in stopping the monster before it went limp.


    Slowly taking my sword out of the caucus, some blood squirted from the wound covering my neck down in droplets of blood.


    However, this act of heroism was in vain, as the man was already dead with his skull crushed and battered.


    Frustrated I turned my attention back to the battlefield, where more men were collapsing and having their throats torn out, while others were swiftly backing up.


    Only half of the men remained as the wargs still had over thirty members left. But, I wasn¡¯t the only one seeing this desperate situation.


    Seeing this predicament, Joshua stepped forward, felling a warg in a single blow, in an attempt to rally the men, before giving words of encouragement.


    ¡°Buckle down everyone! If we can push them a little bit more we can force there retreat! Even monsters don¡¯t want heavy loses!¡±


    As soon as those words left his mouth, a new found vigor spread throughout the field. The soldiers dug their heels in and started bashing the monsters backwards. Seeing their hopeful expressions and their trust they had in the chief, even I wanted to help out.


    Finally, we gained the upper hand as the wargs were being pushed back into the forest, however, a deadly price was being paid in blood.


    Seeing this as an opportunity to reunite with the group, I rushed back into defensive formation before heading to my mother.


    Once I reached the wagon and ask for her, Linda came rushing out. However, once she saw my injuries, she grabbed my hand and brought me into the wagon.


    Sitting down, she asked, ¡°Dustin, what happened to you!?¡¯


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but one of them got me by surprise.¡±, I replied as my face went pale.


    With a scrunched face, she silently observed me before speaking back up.


    ¡°Stay right there, I¡¯m going to get the thread and hook.¡±


    Soon she disappeared into the back of the covered wagon, which was followed by rustling noises, until she reappeared.


    In one of her hands was a bottle of barley, and in the other a block of wood.


    Shoving the block in my face she said, ¡°Here bite onto this.¡±


    Doing as I was told, I braced myself to what is about to come.


    Looking away from Linda, I glanced back to the battlefield as I felt a stinging wet cloth, pushed up to my cuts.


    Then I felt a stabbing pain, as great as the wounds themselves coming and going, as she threaded my wounds shut.


    After five minutes, I noticed something coming.


    In the sky that was illuminated by the thunder, I saw a flock of monsters slowly approaching our vicinity.


    Hurriedly, I pushed Linda away, before completely opening the wagon to meet Joshua¡¯s eyes.


    However, before I could say anything, Joshua gave me a big smile and waved, until a monster dove from the sky and grabbed onto his neck, before shredding it.


    With a look of despair across his face, he coughed up blood before his head was forcibly ripped from his body, flying off into the sky with its new owner.


    Seeing this scene, I forcibly grabbed my mother.


    ¡°We are leaving now!¡± I screamed at her.


    Not understanding what was going on, she looked up to the sky and let out a gasp, before becoming weak in the knees.


    She then slumped down in the carriage, so I went to pick her up, before I jumped out of the wagon and darted to the front of all of the carriages.


    While making my way to the front, I started shouting, ¡°Everyone we are being overrun! Make a break for it!¡±


    Quickly, heads started popping out of the wagons and instantly were shocked at to what they were seeing.


    Out of the group of soldiers, less than twenty of them remained, that were facing over thirty wargs. In the sky, monstrous beings were swooping down attacking the carriages at the back, taking pieces of human flesh off with them. And one side of the forest was slowly catching a flame, as it started to spread.


    Unfortunately, I didn¡¯t wait to see anything else and after a brief period, I reached the very front and promptly cut the horses free from the front wagon.


    Setting Linda back down, I smacked her to ¡®wake¡¯ her.


    ¡°Dustin, what''s going on?¡±, she asked disorientated.


    ¡°Doesn''t matter right now. Get on the horse and run! I¡¯ll follow close behind!¡±


    Swiftly I helped her onto the horse before I whipped my swords sheath onto it¡¯s behind.


    Immediately this signal the horse to take off, and right after, Linda said, ¡°Behind you!¡±


    Barely hearing her words, I ducked instinctually as a crimson blur flew past me.


    Looking at my pursuer, I noticed it was one of the flying beasts. It had a crimson red body that was awfully similar to a hairless human body, and instead off feet it had a giant tail off a scorpion. Just looking at it disturbed me greatly as it hovered while it was still astonished for missing.


    Quickly I went into my battle stance, waiting for the two meter tall beast to turn around. When it regained its posture, the monster turned around suddenly before, folding its wings and making another dive bomb.


    Seeing this, I unsheathed my blade and prepared to take it on.


    Like a haze the red creature descended upon be as it readied its attack.


    In a mere second the demon was close enough that it slashed with its claws as it connected with my sword. Taking on this full force I started huffing erratically, until I managed to divert the blow off course, sending the beast hurtling to ground.


    Seeing it crash into the ground, I lunged forward, proceeding to grab onto the back of the beast, preventing it from taking off.


    Struggling we both fought as my sword kept piercing its leathery hide, while its tail was threatening to puncture right through me.


    Finally over a minute has passed and the beast finally slumped down, before I managed to roll off onto the ground gasping for air.


    However, I forced myself back up, as I wiped coagulated blood off of my chest and proceeded to the nearest horse.


    Once I reached my destination, I sprang up onto the horse and forced it into an all-out sprint, in the direction my mother disappeared in.


    While running, I checked behind me and almost fell off the horse.


    There I saw over a hundred more beasts slowly coming out of the forest descending upon those who were left behind.


    Some monsters matched those I saw in books like trolls, harpies and chimeras. While, others were ones I had a hard time describing.


    However, all I needed to do now was to get as far away as possible. Maybe have a village or two separating us.


    After thinking this I proceeded to gallop for thirty minutes, until I finally came across Linda waiting by a shallow river.


    Smiling at her, I waved.


    Upon seeing this, she rode over to me and forced me into a bear hug.


    ¡°Dustin, thank the gods that you¡¯re all right now.¡±


    Shocked by her sudden action, I almost fell out of my seat before I tried calming down.


    ¡°Huh, yeah¡­ Please give me a moment mom. I¡¯m still really rattled up.¡±


    After taking a few deep breaths I let out a low groan as I tried processing what all happened.


    Hastily I gained my bearings back and look behind me, watching the chaotic storm.


    Still, multiple flashes of purple erupted everywhere and now, a new glow was spreading where we use to be, which means the fire won¡¯t be calming down any time soon. At the same time, while I was glancing around, the rain started up again.


    Silently I redirected my gaze at my mother before I spoke up, ¡°We need to hurry. They shouldn¡¯t be that far behind, but this storm should wash away our scent and tracks.¡±


    Staring at me, she abruptly nodded after a few seconds before gesturing me to lead.


    ¡°Okay, follow me. However, I never left the village this far before. I¡¯ll need you to direct where we should go.¡±


    Smiling bitterly she responded, ¡°Right. If we just continued on this path, we should reach the town in a week.¡±


    Silently thinking to myself, I wondered.


    If we go at that speed, then we might get caught back in an ambush again. If we get their earlier, we should have enough time to rest and discuss whether to leave or to stay in town.


    Finally coming to a conclusion I said, ¡°We should get there in five days then. Just in case we have to go a little bit further and this should avoid any more encounters with those monsters.¡±


    While, pondering it for herself, Linda gave a stiff nod before glancing back.


    ¡°You think anyone else made it out?¡±


    ¡°Probably. But I wouldn¡¯t worry about that right now. We should do what we can to survive Linda.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re probably right. Let¡¯s not tarry here any longer.¡±


    With only the sound of thunder echoing and a heavy downpour blocking our vision, we silently made our way through the darkness of the night.

 [V1] Chapter 1 - Tomorrows Dawn (Part 2)

    Chapter 1 - (Part 2)


    Sunlight broke through the storm clouds, casting a radiate glow over the surroundings. With a few rays of light shining along the dirt road, illuminated the area up to our destination.


    While galloping on our horses, I recalled it has been more than two days since my father died.


    If only I dragged him back with me...


    Trying to push out these negative thoughts, I eventually succeeded when Linda finally spotted the first signs of a village, over the horizon.


    I was told by her earlier, that we are still about a days away from town, but, we needed to stop up ahead so we can rest and get a change of horses.


    Up to now, we haven¡¯t encountered a single monster, let alone any wildlife, while the forest has remained silent during our journey.


    It might be due to the pack of grotesque monstrosities behind us, or the fact, that this huge storm has yet to dissipate, only giving brief pauses like this where the sun is allowed to peak through.


    But as I pondered this, we slowly grew closer until we entered a forest clearing, indicating we are fast approaching the Village of Iris.


    What I have been told by Linda is, the place we¡¯re approaching, is currently being used as a temporary relay station for the territory, just in case of an emergency. It is about double the size of back home, holding close to eight hundred people, where two hundred people are conscripted soldiers hired from the neighboring area.


    As we approached, I notice that the woodlands stopped abruptly at this point, and that past here was all plains with a few hills in-between.


    Lost in thought, a shadow casted over us, until I looked up to see tall mortar walls, and two wooden towers on both sides of the front gate, coming into view.


    Chuckling at me being puzzled, Linda said, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m wondering what is up with having walls and even towers for a village like this.¡±


    ¡°I see. Well I can¡¯t really speak for them, but from what I heard from Lance: places like these are a first line of defense for cities. They also function as a means to keep the raiders, and bandits under control, and to prevent any riots from happening.¡±


    So that would explain having the whole place walled off.


    ¡°So do you have any idea what we should do here, besides changing horses and stocking our supplies?¡±


    ¡°Well, Dustin. I¡¯ll handle that, but you should go talk to the captain stationed here or someone else important to warn them.¡±


    ¡°That sounds good. But, I¡¯m more curious of when we are leaving? Because I¡¯m planning on going at the crack of dawn tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. After I get all of the supplies prepared, I guess we could. Do you not think staying here would be better than going back on the road?¡±


    Staying here might be safer. Honestly I would rather get going ASAP, but we need at least a day to prepare for the journey. I¡¯m more worried about being held here and questioned than anything else.


    While contemplating this, I gazed at my mother to the side before saying, ¡°I told you this already, but those monsters we encountered only made up a portion of what''s to come. Just look at that sky. Do you think purple lightning is natural, or are you hoping for a miracle here mom?¡±


    With a grim expression, she slowed down, before addressing me.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I honestly still feel a heavy atmosphere. And every second we idle, it just makes this foreboding feeling heavier. Just don¡¯t push yourself son. You¡¯re still quite young.¡±


    Giving a weak smile I replied, ¡°Thanks for listening to my selfishness. I just don¡¯t want anything to happen to us if I¡¯m right.¡±


    Nodding, to me. We decided to quicken our pace until we reached the gate.


    ***


    ¡°Halt travelers.¡±


    Looking up at the wooden towers, was a knight gowned in leather armor, with a bow on his back.


    He was quietly watching our actions before he decided to continue speaking.


    ¡°May I know why you have come here for?¡±


    Silently Linda and I look at each other, before we decided that she would be the one speaking on our behalf.


    ¡°My name is Linda, and right here is my son, Dustin. We have come here escaping the ruin that destroyed our home that claimed my husband¡¯s life. We seek to procure supplies before continuing on to the town a days away.¡±


    Quietly, the guard whispered to his companion before beckoning to those on the other side.


    Slowly the gate rose when the guard said, ¡°First I would like your son to disarm, and then we¡¯ll need a report on this ¡®ruin¡¯ you speak of.¡±


    Silently we nodded as I spoke up, ¡°Sir, I would be filling you in with the details, and once it is finished, I would like it to be sent to your captain before nightfall.¡±


    Starring holes into me, the guard gave a brief nod.


    ¡°Naturally. Now come in and follow me lad.¡±


    Getting off my horse I passed the lead to Linda before I was escorted in by a guard.


    As I walked past the gate, multiple houses were neatly arranged in rows, unlike back home where they were all scatter about.


    The most noticeable difference is that the roads were made out of gravel and that they had a barracks, which my village lacked.


    While I was admiring the scenery, the guard John addressed me, ¡°So Dustin, would you like to fill me in on what happened to cause two horses to nearly collapse from exhaustion? What were you guys escaping from if I might ask?¡±


    For a moment we stopped, before I organized my thoughts before recounting the events since being attacked by the fiend.


    As I finish recalling my story to him, both John and the other guard¡¯s expressions went ghastly pale, before they murmured quietly to themselves.


    ¡°Kid you realize that if you¡¯re lying, then this could earn you a few lashing right?¡±


    Looking straight into his brown eyes, I replied, ¡°I know. My father died on my birthday. I wouldn¡¯t joke around about this. That is why I ask for the report to be sent before tonight. Just look at the damn sky. Do you think I was able to conjure such a vain sight?¡±


    Both of them stop and held their breaths as the rumbling of purple thunder streaked about in the sky.


    ¡°True, I¡¯ll hurry and get a report written.¡±


    After five minutes, we finally came across the barracks.


    It was a long building, built in rectangular shape with multiple guards going in and out frequently.


    While avoiding the crowd, I was gestured in by John.


    ¡°Follow me.¡± He said.


    Sticking close to him, we walked into the building passing many curious gazes of the local guards and militia.


    Once we walked past the lobby, we entered into the back before going into a room and closing a door.


    Silently John signaled for the escorts to leave before addressing me.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    ¡°Well let¡¯s get this over quick then. Now tell me what happened three days ago.¡±


    ***


    Later at night, I walked out from the building before making my way down the gravel road. Looking around me, few people were out in the downpour, but a few kids were playing in the drainage ditches.


    As I walk past a couple of young kids, one came up to me and asked what I was doing in the guards place.


    Looking at her, she was only a little younger than me. With reddish hair and freckles, I decided to give her a warning considering that she was good looking.


    ¡°Let me tell you a story.¡±


    As I finish my tale I told to John, the girl ran off saying she needed to tell her dad about this.


    Abruptly I was left all alone again as I decided to continue my way to the building my mom was staying at.


    Swiftly I made my way to Linda and came across the structure she was staying at.


    Knocking on the door, I was then greeted in by an old elderly woman. As I was entering she asked if I needed a change of clothes or something warm eat.


    Agreeing to her requests, I saw Linda sitting in the dining room.


    As I proceeded my way towards her, I noticed her smiling lightly in my direction before beckoning me to sit at the table with her.


    After taking my shoes off, I walked over, and asked, ¡°Did you get everything prepared for tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Hmm, Hmmm.¡± she replied nodding, ¡°Did ¡®you¡¯ listen to me and gave a brief report to that guard already?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. I did. They did held me up long though...¡±


    Still smiling at me, she put on a questioning gaze before she retorted.


    ¡°Really? Why¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Well, they had me report it directly to the captain after I talked to John about it. They seemed to believe me afterwards, considering I kept to my story. To summarize the whole event, they are currently organizing portals ¡®just in case¡¯.¡±


    Later on we discussed multiple things, like how nice the village is, what she bought and how the natives were friendly to her. Eventually we quieted down until my stomach finally rumbled.


    ¡°Ah. I almost forgot, sit down and have some supper. You must be as hungry as a cow by now.¡±


    Taking her up on her offer, I sat down as the elderly woman quickly came out with a pot of food, before preparing dinner for me.


    ¡°Thanks for the food!¡± I said, once everything was set.


    After eating and discussing our plans on what we will be doing once we reach the town, we both decided to turn in early for the night.


    ***


    Few hours later, I was once again shaken awaken.


    Looking around half asleep, I noticed Linda hurriedly packing everything up and the elderly woman was next to my bedside with a worried expression.


    ¡°Nh...What the hell is going on now?¡±


    ¡°The town guards came by making an emergency announcement that a horde of monsters were spotted less than a mile away!¡±


    ¡°Dammit!¡±


    After cursing, I looked around for my belongings before preparing to set out again.


    ¡°Mom, where are the horses you got at?¡±


    Silently thinking to herself before she replied, ¡°They should be at the northern gate, opposite of the one we entered. Why?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid we have to leave right now before this place gets sieged.¡±


    Looking conflicted she contorted her face a bit before asking, ¡°Can¡¯t we just stay here? Surely over two hundred guards can fight them off.¡±


    ¡°Mother... There are those who can fly, and I mentioned this before, but before I left, I saw hundreds more than what you saw. Even some of those, I wouldn¡¯t dare to take on alone.¡±


    Silently glancing down to the floor, she said, ¡°You¡¯re right. Father did say you were stronger than your average guard.¡±


    Smiling bashfully from this unexpected compliment I look around before checking back on her.


    ¡°You done packing yet, Linda?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, let''s hurr¡­.¡±


    Interpreting her, a loud explosion reverberated throughout the area, causing the house to shake slightly.


    ¡°Yeah mom. That sounded like the creatures have finally arrived. Let¡¯s make haste before this place is surrounded.¡±


    As quickly as I was woken up, we left our lodging after notifying our host.


    When we exited the building, the southern wall came into view as it was set ablaze, and there in the sky were multiple beasts breathing fire.


    Some of them I recognized as harpies and others were similar to the one that almost stung me with its scorpion tail.


    However, the most noticeable thing in the sky was a gigantic beast.


    It was twice the size of the fiend I encountered, and had large teal colored wings.


    Everywhere it faced, created a gigantic azure flame, causing the sky to freeze. The terrifying pressure it gave, only intensified as it looked down over the settlement; until I was frozen still, when those reptilian eyes gazed upon me.


    Luckily the dragon like creature, made it as a brief occurrence, as a bolt of fire shot out from the direction of the garrison, interrupting its death like stare.


    Landing directly on its face, the lizard demon winced in pain, while white vapor came off of its blistering scales, causing an eerily blue fluid to leak from its fractures.


    Seeing this beast, being more cautious now, I noticed it finally deciding to retreat as soon as it destroyed the southern gate, allowing the creatures on the ground, to invade.


    Shortly after this next explosion, a low rumble accord, followed by screams of agony. Taking this as my que, I hurriedly dragged Linda behind me hoping to make it in time.


    Arriving at the northern stables, after five minutes of running, we noticed the door was chained closed.


    Banging and kicking on it got us nowhere, so instead, I pulled out by sword before cutting out the doors hinges and ripping it straight off.


    After being successful, we rushed straight inside, proceeding to grab the hardiest of horses, while we started saddling them.


    Finally, we had everything in place and made our way to the gate. However, once we arrived it was stuck closed, trapping us within the damnable wall.


    How am I going to get this open? If I remember, John gestured for the guard behind him before opening the southern gate....


    ¡°Listen, I¡¯m going to scale the tower and open it from up there, so get ready for anything on the other side.¡±


    Shaking with fear, Linda gave me a reassured glance.


    After waving her goodbye, I rode over to the towers ladder before my ascent.


    Climbing higher and higher I noticed the unfolding disaster below me.


    Half of the town, was being over ran by hundreds of monsters, while small children and infants were being spirited away from harpies and the like.


    On the ground, houses were catching fire due to a type of monster, and people were crying and howling as they held their lifeless loved ones in their arms.


    Don¡¯t look Dustin. It¡¯ll break your heart if you continued.


    After trying to prep myself up I finally continued climbing, until I succeeded in getting into the loft of the tower.


    Hurriedly I searched around, until I came across a lever.


    Making my way to it, I pulled it in a complete one eighty degrees, causing a low grinding sound to occur. Seeing that the gate was being raised, I quickly glanced down, to see Linda passing through the gate with a large group of others.


    Waving her down, I made my way to the ladder, before sliding to the bottom.


    Upon exiting the village, I rode up to Linda, as she had a worried expression.


    ¡°Did you encounter any trouble up there, Dustin?¡±


    Smiling meekly I replied, ¡°No...Not really, just that the town is in worse shape than I thought.¡±


    Staring at me, she spoke up, ¡°What do you mean?


    ¡°I¡¯d rather not talk about it mom. Just a few hundred more than what I saw. That¡¯s all...¡±


    Suddenly, Linda grew a little quite.


    ¡°I see, let¡¯s make a straight dash to our destination then.¡±


    Unfortunately her words came too late.


    From the left and right, dozens of monsters were approaching and overhead was a group of flying beasts making a beeline to us.


    ¡°Hurry and go already! I¡¯ll be right behind you Linda!¡± I shouted as we rushed out of danger.


    As we swiftly ran through a raging storm that was picking back up, multiple flying monsters were steadily catching up.


    With only a moment to spare, I decided to remove my boots before placing them into my sack of belongings.


    Now barefooted I stood up and slipped my feet underneath the saddle as I took out my sword preparing a haphazard stance.


    With the edge of my blade, glistening a purple hue from the thunder, I started provoking my adversaries.


    Silently, I waited, as my entire body was being battered by ferocious winds and pelted with chilled rain. With the moon as the sole light, I began taking deep breaths, attempting to focus my concentration.


    Time started to move more slowly as I pushed my perception to the limit, at the same time my first foe of six came within striking distance.


    Seeing a disgusting humanoid form quickly approaching, I noticed its feathered body and the diseased figure it portrayed, pretending to be a human.


    ¡°So it''s a harpy. This is a first for me.¡±, I mumbled to myself.


    Holding my sword with both hands, I brought it up to my breast as I got ready to strike with it.


    With a spark of lightning, I saw the white of its eyes, and decided now was the perfect time.


    Quickly I jabbed my blade forward, ripping flesh from bone as my blade easily went through the creature¡¯s small grotesque head.


    As it lay limply on my blade, I grab its miniature leg before ripping its body off, before throwing it right back at my adversaries.


    Seeing one of their own, killed by me, caused them to go into a fury, suddenly making them lose all sense of reason.


    Immediately three more came in for the attack. This time, I held my sword facing out from my hip.


    Tensing my shoulders, I began taking deep breaths, before I forcibly fired off a sweeping attack aiming for them all.


    Two of them were ripped in half, as the third was barely grazed.


    Unfortunately, the third one smashed its claws into my shoulder pad, cutting slightly into the leather.


    Seeing this, I panicked and grabbed its face with my left hand then forcibly slid its body across my blade.


    With screams of agony, filtering into my ears, I let go of its face, as it spasmed in midair before tumbling onto the dirt road, never to move again.


    However, I left an opening at this time, allowing the remaining harpies to do a pincer attack on me.


    Bracing myself, I unstuck my feet, then jumped up from my horse as I swung my blade below me.


    Luckily, it connected and instantly split another in half, before tearing the wing off of the other.


    Suddenly the muddy road approached swiftly, as the harpy and I tumbled across it.


    Leaning over, I spat out soil, before searching for my enemy.


    Little over five feet away, the beast was clawing the ground, crying in pain as blood spouted out of its missing wing.


    Standing back up, from all fours, I slowly hobbled my way over before plunging my blade into its stomach and twisting it.


    ¡°That¡¯s what you get for being an ugly bastard.¡± I whispered to it.


    Gradually its last vestiges of life escape as foam filled its mouth, until it took its last dying breath.


    Slowly I shifted my feet over to a tree and started throwing up everything I ate earlier.


    Got the wind knocked out of me and I feel like shit. ...my shoulder is throbbing like a bitch


    Leaning over for a while longer, I wiped my face, slowly psyching myself back up.


    ¡°I got to keep going. Mom should be up a head, and she should be waiting for me when she sees my horse run by.¡± I whispered to myself.


    Getting back up, I forced my aching body to jog down the dirt path through a raging storm.


    ***


    There I found my mother¡¯s horse, but all that remained was a blood stain that dyed its fur crimson.


    Slowly I approached the stead, and pushed my head against his.


    In this accursed place, I screamed to the heavens, begging that this was not true.

 [V1] Chapter 1 - Tomorrowa Dawn (Part 3)

    Chapter 1 - (Part 3)


    I¡¯ve been galloping down the road for who knows how long. Day and night blurred together, as my concentration on the road flickers.


    The only thing keeping me awake is the nonstop rain and my throbbing shoulder burning.


    I haven¡¯t properly ate since a week ago, and the blood on my skin has started to smell.


    Slowly the horse trotted.


    Until finally, coming to a stop.


    Hmm? Am I still moving? How long have I been moving? I do not know.


    In a delirious state, I could make out someone speaking to me, but my eyelids refuse to budge.


    Eventually my body shifted to the side, falling to the ground, knocking the air out of me.


    Soon darkness crept into my consciousness, until I realized I was being dragged briskly along the gravel.


    Then my mind flickered away.


    ***


    ¡°You awake yet?¡±


    ¡°......¡±


    Gradually I reopened my eyes to see a wooden ceiling.


    Attempting to adjust to the light coming in, I looked around and asked.


    ¡°Ugh...Where am I?¡±


    Waiting for a few seconds, the feminine voice once again spoke up, ¡°You¡¯re inside an infirmary right now.¡±


    Ah I must have passed out before making it to my destination.


    Stretching a bit, I sat up and look in the direction of where the voice came from.


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel any better though.¡±


    For an abrupt moment she looked away, before laughing into her hand.


    ¡°Well mister, you were going into shock earlier. Luckily for you, the outside patrols caught sight of you.¡±


    Looking slightly conflicted, I checked over my body seeing that my shoulder was stitched up along with new stitches on my side.


    ¡°I honestly don¡¯t really remember that much... But when was I injured on the shoulder?¡± I whispered to myself.


    Taking in what I said, she came up to me and pointed at the wound.


    ¡°You see here? We had to cut out some of the rotting flesh in your shoulder, before disinfecting it.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see.¡±


    With a slight smile she retorted, ¡°So what happened to come here all battered up for?¡±


    Suddenly I remember the past events, ranging from the storm to the monsters and finally, to the Village of Iris.


    Sensing I was slightly getting round-up, the nurse placed a hand on my forehead.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem you¡¯re running a fever or showing any signs of illness?¡±


    Taking a brief moment I said, ¡®Sorry about that, it''s just, that so much has happened recently. However, does the city know anything about a swarm of monsters coming?¡±


    Biting on her pen, she sat down on the edge of my bed, thinking.


    ¡°Yeah, I heard that a messenger came by two days ago, talking about a herd of them coming from the south.¡±


    Breathing out a sigh of relief, I moved over sitting next to her.


    ¡°Good, I was worried that when I was unconscious, this place might get attacked off guard.¡±


    ¡°Is it really that dangerous?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, believe me. See these wounds on my body?¡±


    Seeing her nod slowly, I continued, ¡°I got one from a warg and the other from a harpy. However, they could be consider small fry, compared to that dragon like creature I encounter.¡±A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    It took her a moment to process that information, until her face turned grim.


    ¡°Dragon like? What you mean by that.¡±


    Slowly I told Farris the disaster that felled Iris, and a short version of my journey here.


    As I continued to talk, she started to dabble down a brief report on the back of a piece of paper, until I was completely finished.


    Silently, she chewed on the end of her pen, then spoke up.


    ¡°So, you say it''s not just a hundred or so monsters, but close to a thousand. On top of that, they have a wyvern that breaths blue flames?¡±


    Fidgeting slightly, I gave you a slight nod.


    ¡°Okay, Dustin. Just rest here for a bit. I¡¯m going to show this to my boss.¡±


    ¡°Thanks for listening. I really do appreciate it.¡±


    Quickly she stood up, hurrying to the door then briskly turned towards me. However, before she said anything, I interrupted her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine. Go now Farris.¡± I chuckled, shooing her away.


    Giving me a warm smile, she disappeared into the hall.


    I can see why she''s a nurse. Nice, pretty and caring. I should get some rest before deciding what to do, from here on out.


    ***


    Waking up the next day, I noticed that the storm was weakening in strength.


    It has been over a week since it started, but the wind has changed directions.


    Either we are on the backside of the storm or it¡¯s dissipating finally.


    While thinking to myself, Farris snuck into my room startling me when she knocked on the door frame.


    "I see you¡¯re as lively as ever, Dustin.¡±


    Scowling at her I stood up from my bed, before approaching her.


    ¡°Yeah I¡¯m as fit as a fiddle now.¡±


    ¡°Sure you are. Just don¡¯t move around too much now. Don¡¯t want those stitches to come undone.¡±


    ¡°Yeah I hear you. You going to change them then?¡±


    ¡°Yes. So hurry up and sit back down now.¡±


    Making my way to a stool, I waited for Farris to unzip her medical kit and to get this over with.


    ¡°So Dustin. I¡¯m still pretty surprise about how killed so many monsters out there.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it was my very first time really killing anything like that before.¡±


    ¡°Really? From what I heard, you sounded just like a professional when it came to this.¡±


    ¡°Well I use to live in a small remote village, where hunting for pelts were our main source of income... There is honestly not much difference when killing a wolf compared to a warg. Granted one was like a puppy, while the other was a bear.¡±


    ¡°Nice analogy.¡± she laughed. ¡°So who taught you the sword?¡±


    Before I could reply, she ripped out one of my stitches.


    ¡°HHH! What the hell.¡±


    ¡°Opps.¡±


    Wiping a tear from my eye, I grudgingly looked at her smug face before I continued.


    ¡°My father, Lance... He¡¯s the one who pretty much trained me in swordsmanship. And trust me when I say, ¡°It definitely wasn¡¯t a walk in the park, but more similar to walking on hot coals.¡±¡±


    ¡°Oh how so?¡±


    Is she trying to annoy me?


    However, before I could retort, she ripped another one out without mercy.


    ¡°AHH! Can¡¯t you be gentler please?¡±


    ¡°Nope. <3¡±


    And so we continued our conversation until she finally replaced all of my stitches.


    After clearing my eyes with a cloth, I was able to get a better look at Farris.


    She was lean, around my same height and had her brown hair tied up into a bun. Honestly she wasn¡¯t that bad looking, except she looked close to her thirties already.


    ¡°Did you just check me out?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm?¡±


    Looking closer I was able to tell she had a scar running down the side off her face.


    ¡°Hey where did you get that scar anyway?¡± I asked pointing it out.


    ¡°Oh? Is that why you were staring at me?¡± she slightly stuttered.


    ¡°Yeah, why are you asking?¡±


    ¡°Just thought you were checking me out, for a minute.¡±


    ¡°Ah. Sorry. Married woman aren''t my type.¡± I replied, while obviously looking at her silver ring.


    Whoa that was close, nice save me.


    ¡°Really now¡­¡±


    Packing up her kit, she continued.


    ¡°I got this scar after climbing a tree and slipping. Long story short, I bashed my cheek into a branch below me, knocking myself out.¡±


    ¡°¡­.Nothing else to add?¡±


    Biting on her pen, she gave me a nod.


    ¡°Yep, but I had this for years already, doesn''t really bother me if people stare at it. Especially my patients, because who knows what may happen to them under my care?¡±


    A little bit of a cold sweat formed as I watched her evilly chuckle to herself. I let out a loud gulp as I hurriedly got my shirt back on.


    ¡°Anyway, you can be discharge now. What are you planning to do now?¡±


    ¡°Wait. Don¡¯t I need to pay first?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s already covered, since we found some silver in your belongings.¡±


    ¡°Oh. Well, I don¡¯t really have any plans right now. Stay here until the monster wave passes through is an option. What do you think I should do?¡±


    Waiting for a moment, she came over to me and brushed my shirt off before replying.


    ¡°Since you¡¯re new here, you¡¯ll need to provide proof of your identity for starters.¡±


    ¡°Oh. You want to go with me and show me around then?¡±


    Briefly she considered this, while munching on the back of her pen. Then she smiled as she motioned me to come with her.


    ¡°Alright let''s get going, I¡¯ll get your stuff ready, before heading out.¡±


    Following her out into the hall, I whispered to myself. ¡°Can¡¯t wait to see the city of Amber light.¡±


    ***


    This day would mark the beginning of my journey.


    - Year 347

 [V1] Chapter 1 - Tomorrows Dawn (Part 4 Final)

    Chapter 1 - (Part 4)


    Dark storm clouds rolled by in the sky.


    Being led by Farris, we made our way down the town¡¯s main street.


    Seeing crowds of people rushing about was a new experience to me.With hundreds of new and different faces in our way, we pushed our way through.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this place a little too crowded to be considered a town?¡±


    ¡°It really is. But the governor has already got the go ahead by our feudal lord to expand the city.¡±


    ¡°But it doesn''t explain why they looked so rushed though.¡±


    Placing her arms behind her head, she gave a deep sigh.


    ¡°Probably because of the upcoming swarm. They¡¯re scared their prospects might go up in flames, so they¡¯re preparing for the worst case right now.¡±


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we be figuring out how to protect ourselves too then?¡±


    ¡°No. The city guard and knights provided by our feudal lord should be enough.¡±


    Even if you say so, two hundred soldiers were still not enough toeven stall them.


    Noticing I was being quiet, Farris gave me a slight smack on the back.


    ¡°Brighten up kid. You¡¯re too young to worry about this. If it helps your nerves, they¡¯ve already conscripted a couple of mages from town to help out.¡±


    ¡°Mages? Like the ones who can shoot lightning and cure diseases?¡±


    Slowing our pace a bit, she turned to me while she bit on her pen tip.


    ¡°Yeah sort of. However, mages that specialize in healing arerather quiet rare, and most of the time, they¡¯re already under contract by someone.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see. You know anyone who can heal my wounds up quick then?¡±


    ¡°Hmm, not any I know of currently in town.¡±


    Hearing this I dropped my shoulders a bit.


    ¡°Let¡¯s hurry up so I can get my identification card then.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who is slowing us down to begin with.¡± Farris whispered.


    ***


    Fifteen minutes later, we came across the registration office.


    It was near the city center, situated in front of a dolphin fountain.


    The building was shaped like a courthouse with a spire in the middle.


    ¡°We¡¯re here! Stay close so you don¡¯t get any funny ideas you hear!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, Yeah. I hear you Farris. Quiet down before you make a scene at the front door.¡±


    ¡°Then hurry your butt up then.¡±


    Being pulled by Farris, I stepped through the wooden doors, entering the reception lounge.


    Looking around, there was quite a few people here, standing in line, waiting for the receptionist to hurry up.


    While appraising the length of the line, Farris yelled over to me.


    ¡°Over here Dustin!¡±


    Walking over, she had us lined up in the corner, where the line wasn¡¯t as long as the others.


    ¡°You¡¯re pretty unlucky Dustin.¡±


    ¡°Hmm? Why¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s pretty busy here.¡±


    ¡°I can see that. What are they all doing here?¡±


    ¡°From what I can see they¡¯re getting building permits and paying their taxes¡±


    ¡°So what¡¯s so unusual about this then?¡±


    ¡°Because, the city is currently under development. Meaning a lot more people lining up here. Usually it''s only around fifty people here at a time.¡±


    After doing a headcount, I was pretty shocked...


    ¡°There¡¯s over three hundred people, Farris!¡±


    ¡°I know! I heard these kinds of transactions take a long time though.¡±


    ¡°Great, let¡¯s wait and see¡­¡±


    Less than ten minutes later we finally arrived in front of the booth.


    ¡°Welcome, how may I help you?¡±


    Trying to find the right words to say, Farris interrupted me.


    ¡°This lad here would like to get an identification card.¡±


    ¡°Oh and will this be a permanent one or a temporary one.¡±


    ¡°Permanent one please.¡±


    Soon after, the receptionist disappeared into the back, leaving me slightly conflicted.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong Dustin?¡±


    ¡°You guys completely ignored me.¡±


    ¡°Should¡¯ve spoken up then.¡±


    ¡°Hey, I was trying to get the right words ready.¡±


    Smiling devilishly, she retorted.


    ¡°Just had to say three words. Not that hard.¡±


    Before I could take a jab back, our host came back.


    What perfect timing, I¡¯ll remember this.


    ¡°Here you guys go, are you his mother?¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Slightly chuckling into her palm, she said, ¡°No, I¡¯m not¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry miss. Are you here to vouch for his character?¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes.¡±


    ¡°Okay, please sign your name and workplace please.¡±


    After she signed the paper, the receptionist finally turned to me.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯m going to need you to fill this paper out for me real quick.¡±


    ¡°Whatever¡­¡±


    Looking at the document, I filled out the following information:


    Identification Papers:


    Please fill out the following information.


    Name: Dustin


    Age as of (Year 347): 16


    Appearance: Brown hair. Brown eyes. Medium-Tall height. Slim weight.


    Residence: NA (Village was Destroyed)


    Birth Parents and Siblings (label if deceased): Lance (deceased), Linda(deceased)


    Occupation: Hunter/Advanced Swordsman


    Where to contact you in a months¡¯ time: Amber Light¡¯s Infirmary: Ask for Farris.


    Where will you be at in the next year?: NA/Capital?


    Reasons for ID: Make traveling easier. More employment options.


    By paying the 5 silver fee, you will be put into the draft, and during times of war, will receive the average soldiers pay once conscripted. If any information is falsified, you will be held accountable for any fines that may follow.


    ¡°Finally, I¡¯m done. Here you go.¡± I said, placing five silver on the table.


    Taking the papers, she said she''ll make a copy and went into the back room again. Soon after, Farris nudged me.


    ¡°What you want to do after this Dustin?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t really know yet. I don¡¯t have much money on me, and I need to get my armor repaired. Maybe stop by a smith or go out and eat?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat first. I took the day off, giving us a lot of time to explore.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s nice of you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m getting paid anyway. Consider this an additional service we provide at the clinic.¡± she smiled cheekily.


    ¡°Stop being so smug like that. Or your face is going to stick like that.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t help it. <3¡±


    After poking at each other for a while longer, the receptionist finally came back.


    ¡°Here you go.¡± she said, handing me a plastic like card.


    ¡°On here sir, should have your age, appearance, and occupation.Then on the back, we have the seal of approval from the finance minister. Any changes here will cost another fee of five silver. Feel free to decorate it as you please. That should be it so have a good day.¡±


    ¡°Uh, thanks?¡±


    ¡°Is there anything else you need?¡±


    ¡°No. No thank you. We¡¯re heading out now. Thanks again.¡±


    ¡°No problem. Hope to see you again.¡±


    Making our way back onto the main street, I turned to Farris.


    ¡°Seems like she was in a rush to get me out.¡±


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t be that surprising Dustin. It¡¯s over crowded in there.I kinda feel bad for them.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t really.¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Cause she ignored me half the time. And then she thought I was just a boy with his mom.¡±


    Laughing to herself, Farris retorted.


    ¡°Not my fault that you¡¯re holding a grudge.¡±


    Then we argued for a minute before I decided to change the subject.


    ¡°You win. Let¡¯s just get a bite to eat¡­¡±


    Smiling contently to herself, she spun around saying, ¡°Follow now my child.¡±


    ***


    By the time we arrived at our destination, the sky started to darken.


    The building was a typical house, partially rebuilt so you can dine inside or out on the terrace.


    As it started to rain, I signaled for Farris to come in already.


    While, walking in through the front door, she spoke up.


    ¡°This place is called, The Hog¡¯s Tavern. They serve rather delicious burgers and mead. I especially, like their baby back ribs.¡±


    ¡°Mmm, meat does sound good right now. Let¡¯s hurry and line up,before I pass out from hunger.¡±


    Following Farris, we slowly made our way to the waitress, who was arranging the seating.


    ¡°Hello, where would you like to sit today?¡±


    Looking at one another, I decided to speak up for us, ¡°How about a spot at the bar for two.¡±


    Turning around, the waitress asked us to follow.


    Walking through the tavern, I noticed most of the guests here were older grizzly men. Most of them looked like they worked outside the city wall,perhaps expanding the city.


    The building itself was dimly lit, with a few candles scattered across the tables, and a heavy smell of grilled meat hung stiffly in the air.


    Finally, we were seated at the corner of the bar, on wooden stools.


    ¡°Our orders are listed up above the bar.¡±, she said, while pointing to it. ¡°We¡¯ll have another waitress take your orders in a bit. No need to rush.¡±


    Shortly after, Farris and I watched her leave, Farris spoke up.


    ¡°What you think of the place, Dustin? Cozy right?¡±


    ¡°Pretty nice, besides all of the sweaty men here.¡±


    Laughing into her hand, she directed her gaze at the menu. Afterwards, I joined her.


    Perhaps I should order pork chops, and maybe a side of honeyed mead.


    Finally figuring out what she wanted, Farris turned to me.


    ¡°You know what you¡¯re ordering yet?


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯ll probably get some pork chops and a cooked potato. Thena side of honeyed mead. What about you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m getting baby back ribs, and a glass of water.¡±


    After discussing about some other places in town, our waitress arrived, leaving quickly after we placed our orders.


    ¡°She was pretty cute. Right Dustin?¡±


    ¡°Yeah she was, but she isn¡¯t my type.¡±


    With a mischievous grin, she flicked my arm.


    ¡°Ow. No need to be violent.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m just wondering, what is your type?¡±


    Thinking for a moment, I laughed to myself.


    ¡°Differently not older woman.¡±


    Hearing this, she had a sharp glint in her eye, before she pinched my tricep really hard.


    ¡°Ow, OW!¡±


    Feeling content in my pain, she proceeded to ask once again.


    ¡°Okay, okay. Sheesh, why are you being so touchy.¡± I said rubbing my arm, ¡°I¡¯m interested in redheads okay.¡±If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ¡°Oh is that it. And here I thought you were being prude.¡±


    ¡°A bit rude, name calling.¡±


    ¡°Ah, hold that thought. Our food is coming.¡±


    Glancing over my shoulder, I saw our brunette waitress holding a platter with our food.


    ¡°We have one serving of ribs for you miss, and some pork chops with a potato for you sir.¡±


    Placing our food down, she continued. ¡°Is there anything else you need?¡±


    ¡°No, looks all good.¡± I replied.


    ¡°Okay, just holler if you need something.¡±


    Turning around, Farris and I dug into our lunch.


    Quietly eating, we continued our discussion about places we should visit. Until eventually I brought up the topic of magic.


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be nice to use magic, Farris?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it would. Just requires a good teacher and a year or two of training.¡±


    ¡°You think I could learn magic?¡±


    ¡°Depends on what you¡¯re naturally good at. Warriors generally lack the sense for it. Then you have to find out what class of magic you¡¯re good at.¡±


    ¡°Oh, do you know any then?¡±


    ¡°No, unfortunately. If I did it would be something along the lines of healing, but I¡¯m not compatible with the white arts.¡±


    ¡°Sorry to hear. What are the white arts?¡±


    Taking a drink from her lead cup, she replied.


    ¡°It¡¯s a category for magic. White arts are for spells that center around fixing and mending wounds, while the opposite, black arts, are for those that destroy.¡±


    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you try learning some black magic then?¡±


    Looking slightly weary she looked at me.


    ¡°My profession is to heal people, not to take lives away. Inshort, I refused to learn any offensive magic. Might sound a bit selfish, but it¡¯ll go against my true nature.¡±


    ¡°Your true nature, huh.¡±


    Silently I looked up to the ceiling, contemplating to myself.


    What is my nature? What are the things I value? How do others see me?


    Snapping myself back to reality I gulped down the rest of my drink.


    ¡°So, Farris. I¡¯m wondering how you see me as?¡±


    ¡°A friend.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see. Wait no! I mean, how would others see me as? Like personality wise.¡±


    Sitting still, biting on her fork, she thought for a moment.


    ¡°Why do ask?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just that I really have no direction in life right now. Ijust wanted to see where I stand right now, in others eyes.¡±


    Waiting for a reply, Farris took her fork out, then pointed it atme.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re a good listener and a bit serious. You know how to go with the flow, and you have a bright head on your shoulders. So you¡¯re better than most people.¡±


    Smiling at me, I ended up returning it.


    ¡°Thanks for the compliment. I really admire you a lot too. Having that drive to save others and sticking to your own set of morals. It¡¯s something I¡¯m lacking or more say to say, ¡®yet to gain¡¯.¡±


    Blushing slightly, with smiling eyes, she chuckled.


    ¡°Thanks, Dustin. You sound just like my younger brother. If only he was here to see you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome. You about ready to head out then?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s head to the smith then.¡±


    Standing up, we left some silver on the bar for the bartender,before heading out, into the rain.


    ***


    ¡°The rain has really let up since earlier.¡± I stated.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m getting sick of this weather already. Go away you blasted storm.¡± retorted Farris, shooing away to the sky.


    ¡°How much farther until we get there, Farris?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just up ahead. A little walk hasn¡¯t killed anyone.¡±


    ¡°Not yet¡­¡±


    Chattering along a side road, we made our way to the merchant side of town, while we avoided water puddles.


    Eventually after twenty minutes, we finally came across a warehouse styled building.


    ¡°Wait here, Dustin. I¡¯ll go in first to greet them.¡±


    ¡°Right. I¡¯ll keep watch out here then.¡± I gloomy said.


    ¡°Cheer up! I won¡¯t be gone for long. Just going to say high to an old friend. I might even get you a discount.¡±


    Perking up, I gave a greedy smile.


    ¡°Is that so¡­ Make sure to really butter him up Farris.¡±


    ¡°Will do. <3¡±, she said, disappearing into the building.


    Looking around, I tried figuring out the name of the building.Backing up a bit, I saw big iron letters spelling it out.


    Max¡¯s and Cecilia''s: Armor and Sword... Pretty generic name.


    While, admiring the building, I noticed tens of city guards entering and exiting the building. Getting curious about what they were doing,I decided to go ask one.


    ¡°Hello?¡±


    Looking around, the guard saw me, and gave me smile.


    ¡°Hey there lad. What do you need?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m wondering if the smithery is always this busy?¡±


    Thinking for a moment, he replied, ¡°It usually is busy, but today the city had made arrangements to outfit the guards in pristine gear.¡±


    ¡°Is it alright to tell me that?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s no secret that we are preparing to subjugate the monster horde soon.¡±


    My face turned slightly pale, until the guard continued.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. I¡¯ll make sure non get past me, so be at ease.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry for bothering you. When are you guys heading out?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow at sunrise. Make sure to not leave the city you hear?¡± replied the guard, ¡°Don¡¯t want any stragglers to get you.¡±


    Nodding in approval, I noticed Farris waiting for me at the doorway.


    Before I could head over, the guard spoke up again.


    ¡°By the way my name is Sam. Yours?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m called Dustin...¡±


    ¡°See you later then Dustin. Don¡¯t want you to keep a pretty lady waiting.¡±


    ¡°You take care too.¡± I retorted as we went our separate ways.


    Walking up to Farris, I noticed her grinning with a goofy expression on her face.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Oh nothing. Just I heard him call me a beautiful woman.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have a husband?¡±


    ¡°Ah right. He shouldn¡¯t mind.¡±


    Processing this sudden remark, I gave her a shocked expression.


    ¡°Stop your gawking, let''s go inside. I really buttered Max up for you.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yeah. Thanks partner.¡± I replied grinning.


    ***


    Entering the lobby, I noticed over a hundred weapons displayed on the walls and many more stacked onto shelves. At the back, I noticed a line of over fifty soldiers getting their gear from a blonde woman.


    ¡°Is that Cecilia over there?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Surprised you noticed. Yeah we¡¯re friends by the way, so no funny business.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Older women aren''t my type.¡±


    Folding her arms, she gave me a stiff face.


    ¡°Is that so?¡±


    ¡°Did I hit a nerve again?¡± I said cheekily.


    ¡°Maybe you don¡¯t need my help then.¡±


    Panicking, I rushed over to her, poking her in the gut.


    ¡°Ah. Stop being so flustered. I need your help. Pretty please?¡±


    ¡°All right, only because you said please.¡±


    Unfolding her hands, she had me follow her to one side of the shop, stopping in front of a rack of swords.


    ¡°All right look around here, I¡¯ll bring Max over to answer any questions you have.¡±


    Swiftly she left, leaving behind the front counter smiling to Cecilia,then disappearing into the back.


    Left alone, I looked in front of me.


    Several different swords where displayed on the walls, with duplicates stacked on the shelves.


    There I saw straight swords, two handed swords, sabers, short swords, long swords, and rapiers.


    Slowly I grasped a long sword similar to the one at my side. Ithad a longer blade than mine, however I couldn¡¯t grasp the grip with both hands. Setting it back down, I went for the next blade.


    Next was I took up a straight sword, this time I was able to grasp it with both hands. However, the blade was thicker and weighed more than my liking. Putting it back, I continued to look, passing up multiple swords before making a final decision.


    So far the only one that felt right, was the long sword, but it needed a longer handle.


    While I was deep in though, Farris came back with Max in tow.


    ¡°Yeah this is the lad I spoke about.¡±


    ¡°I see, he does carry himself like a professional. Bit surprising since he¡¯s rather young.¡±


    ¡°It is, but he¡¯s rather mature for his age.¡±


    Looking at me, Max said, ¡°I see you¡¯re a bit conflicted with that longsword you¡¯re staring at.¡±


    ¡°Ah. Yeah, just a bit.¡± I replied, ¡°I¡¯m wondering if you have something like it, but made with a longer handle.¡±


    Thinking for a moment, he step up to the shelf and picked up the blade.


    ¡°Can I see yours at your side then?¡±


    Nodding, I handed my longsword to him, watching as he inspected the blades.


    ¡°Yours is pretty battered. Got the metal oxidize from the blood you didn¡¯t wipe off.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I was injured and couldn¡¯t really get around to taking care of it.¡±


    ¡°I see. However, this blade is finely crafted to suit your needs.Not every day I come across a bastard sword, crafted to suit a kid.¡±


    ¡°Bastard sword?¡±


    Mumbling to himself for a bit, he replied, ¡°A two and a half sword. It¡¯s a longsword built to be two handed. This one here has a lighterblade than others considering it was tailored for you specifically.¡±


    Waiting until he was done inspecting my sword, I walked over to him.


    ¡°You think you have something like this?¡±


    ¡°I do, but it¡¯s in the back. Our place doesn¡¯t get that many buyers for swords like these.¡± he said, ¡°Follow me.¡±


    Briskly, Farris, Max and I made our way to the back of the shop.


    Waking through the doorway, I noticed all kinds of armor, ranging from leather to steel and a few sets made out of unknown material.


    Watching me look around in awe, Max spoke up, ¡°Farris mentioned you needed your armor repaired.¡±


    ¡°That''s correct. I might be tempted to just buy a new set here though.¡± I laughed.


    ¡°How about this. Once you find a sword you like, I¡¯ll throw in an armor of your choice at fifty percent off.¡±


    Hearing this, I walked over checking the price tags before gasping a little bit.


    ¡°Fifty percent off is quite generous. But I¡¯ll still be spending at least a gold coin here.¡±


    Shrugging, he continued, ¡°Armor usually doesn''t sell often. Most places are around the same price anyway. Just look around till you find something you like.¡±


    Checking around, I looked for something light and durable.


    Not having much luck I asked, ¡°Hey Max, you have anything here durable and light?¡±


    Immediately he walked over to a shelf, pulling out a brown bag,brushing off some dust.


    Throwing the bag towards me, he said, ¡°Here open this. Bet you¡¯ll like what you find.¡±


    Is it me, or did Farris tell him more about me than I thought?


    Opening the duffle bag, I pulled out leathered greaves, gauntlets,and a chest piece that should be able to completely cover my stomach/back. Feeling the inside of the pieces, I felt a cold metallic lining.


    Curious at this, I asked, ¡°What is this made out off?¡±


    ¡°Just cured hardened leather with the insides sown with a steeljacket.¡±


    ¡°Must¡¯ve been a pain getting the jacket sown in like this.¡±


    ¡°Just a bit. It¡¯s something my wife and I were working on. It¡¯s more experimental than anything.¡±


    ¡°Means I get a bigger discount then.¡±


    ¡°Tch. One greedy bastard. Alright I¡¯ll knock it down to thirty silver then. It was just gathering dust back here for years anyway.¡±


    ¡°Thanks. I¡¯ll get it.¡±, I replied.


    ¡°Good, now follow me upstairs. I keep the off market stuff there.¡±


    Smiling, to myself, I caught Farris nodding in approval.


    Walking up the stairs, I asked, ¡°So how did you and Max meet each other?¡±


    Placing her arms behind her head, she replied, ¡°We met when oneday he showed up at the clinic with half of his hand cut apart. It was really bad, we were planning on amputating it.¡±


    Interrupting her, Max said, ¡°Yeah, but Farris got me in touch with a mage who was in town. After negotiating, Farris knocked down her service fees to three gold.¡±


    Taking control of the conversation again, Farris remarked, ¡°You¡¯re lucky it was me. Others at the infirmary wouldn¡¯t go so far.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m so thankful, that I can still make weapons for a living. I¡¯m even helping by lending a hand with that lad back there.¡±


    Noticing he was blushing, Farris retorted, ¡°Stop pretending to bea hard ass. You¡¯re blushing right now.¡±


    ¡°No I¡¯m not.¡± he said hurriedly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind him Dustin. He is like a giant teddy bear underneath that beard of his.¡±


    Looking between Farris, and the giant of a man, I nodded saying, ¡°It¡¯s okay. He¡¯s a rather sociable guy.¡±


    Grinning then laughing, Farris continued walking, opening up a door for us.


    ¡°The sword you¡¯re looking for is over here.¡±


    Being lead inside by Max, I caught my eye on all sorts of tools,and tubs filled with parts. In one tub, had all sorts of handles, while another was filled with pommels. On the walls were naked swords dangling, waiting to be fitted with a guard. In the center of the room, was a table with engraving tools.


    ¡°What you think of Cecilia¡¯s workshop?¡± questioned Max.


    ¡°Cecilia¡¯s?¡±


    ¡°Yep. I¡¯m the one who smelts everything, while she fits them all together, due to being more dexterous.¡±


    Performing a double take of the room, I gave a conceited smile.


    ¡°It¡¯s rather impressive. I would have assumed it would have been a disorganized place, if you told me before hand.¡±


    Laughing heartily, he gave me a smack on the shoulders.


    ¡°Alright lad. Now tell me your budget.¡±


    Thinking of how much I have, I opened my coin pouch.


    One, Two¡­.18 gold pieces, 80 silver, and 120 bronze coins. All the money my parents had saved.


    Looking back up I replied, ¡°Two gold when excluding the armor.Make sure it¡¯s from a material an experience swordsman would use.¡±


    ¡°Quite a bit for a sword, but I¡¯ll see what I can find.¡±


    Gradually he went out on the prowl, looking through crates until he found what he was looking for.


    ¡°Found a sword right up your alley.¡¯


    Coming over to me, he held out a metallic blue sword.


    Wondering what it was made out of, I asked, ¡°This sword is kind ofodd.¡±


    Laughing to himself, he retorted, ¡°Of course it is boy. It haseleven metal for its core, while the blade is an alloy of mythril and steel.Should weigh about the same as yours, but much harder.¡±


    ¡°Pretty expensive materials it¡¯s made out of.¡± Farris whispered into my ear.


    ¡°But two gold is quite a bit Farris. Is it going to be worth it?¡±


    ¡°Might be if he throws in a good, handle, pommel and guard, of the same material.¡±


    ¡°Ai, Farris. Don¡¯t get him any funny ideas you hear. Steel would work just as fine for that and is cheaper.¡±


    ¡°He does have a point Farris. So how much you charging for it?¡±


    Grunting to himself, he said, ¡°A gold and 40 silver. Take it or leave it.¡±


    Looking for some negotiation help I looked over to my side.


    ¡°Farris?¡±


    Grinning, she walked over to Max.


    ¡°How about you drop it to a gold and 10 silver? Consider it a discount when we buy that armor of yours.¡±


    ¡°Tch. The lowest I¡¯ll go is a gold and 30 silver.¡±


    Beckoning me over, Farris said, ¡°Shake his hand now Dustin. Don¡¯t really want to pressure him more than this.¡±


    Agreeing to her request I shook his hand, handing him two gold and 20 silver.


    ¡°Thanks for the coin. You can watch as I get it all assembled.¡±


    Taking the naked bastard sword, he went rummaging through the crates, pulling out a steel guard and pommel. Then in another, he pulled out a metal braided handle.


    Now walking over to the craftsman''s bench, he took out a wooden mallet before banging everything together.


    While we waited, Farris offered to introduce me to a local inn,before nightfall. Agreeing to her request, we schedule to get together again when she''s off this weekend. Making her promise to show me a place to work at,was all I could schedule before Max came over with my newly crafted sword.


    ¡°Here you go. You can leave your old sword here if you no longer need it. I¡¯ll compensate you¡±


    Listening to him, I handed over my old sword.


    ¡°How about your old leather armor too?¡±


    Questioning him for a moment, I handed it over too, before I changed into my new set of gear.


    Seeing me content with my new stuff, Farris coughed.


    ¡°Max, where¡¯s the compensation at?¡±


    ¡°Ah sorry. Here you guys go.¡±


    Max reached into his pocket pulling out 40 silver.


    ¡°10 silver for the sword, and 30 for your torn armor.¡± he said,placing it in my hand.


    Before I could react, Farris reached over taking ten for herself.


    ¡°Hey.¡±


    ¡°What Dustin? Just getting compensated for helping you out.¡± she chuckled.


    Staring holes into her, I gave up arguing with her.


    It¡¯s true she did get me a discount. If only she was less mischievous.


    After thinking to myself, I was lead back down the stairs and to the entrance. There I waited for Farris and Max to get done talking.


    Ten minutes later, Farris and I were back on the streets,observing the sky.


    ¡°Dustin, it looks like the sky is starting to clear up.¡±


    Looking in the same direction, I replied, ¡°True. Hopefully tomorrow would look a bit better.¡±


    ¡°I really hope so too.¡±


    Quietly we made our way down the streets as the peaking sun started to dip below the horizon.


    ***


    Approaching the inn, Farris gave me the rundown of the local places I should visit. Like where to buy medicine, good places to eat, andwhere the local merchants are at.


    Once she was done talking, we arrived in front of a three story building. Above the doorway had the name, ¡°Owl¡¯s Inn¡±. Without entering, we could hear laughter and singing coming from within.


    Confused, I questioned Farris, ¡°Isn¡¯t this supposed to be an inn? Not some tavern?¡±


    Smiling to herself she gestured me forward.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so picky. Come in already.¡±


    Mumbling to myself, I reluctantly followed.


    Upon entering the building, I was shoved from the side by a drunk.


    ¡°Watch where you''re go.....¡±


    However, he puked on the ground before he could finish.


    In reaction, a gigantic woman came rushing out in an apron,glaring daggers at the drunk.


    ¡°Oi you bastard. How dare you puke in here!¡±


    Replying to her the drunk said, ¡°Not... fault. This kid...ran in¡­.Me.¡±


    ¡°Hold your damn tongue. You slobbering everywhere you drunk. You can¡¯t even make proper sentences.¡±


    Before he could say anything else, the muscular woman picked him up by his collar and threw him out side.


    ¡°Stay outside until you sober up.¡±


    Then turning to me then Farris, she let out a grin.


    ¡°So Farris you finally found yourself a man aye? Kinda young don¡¯t you think?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that Brenda. I¡¯m just showing him to an inn so he could rest.¡± she replied, sharply.


    Still grinning she turned to me, ¡°You sure you don''t fancy her?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like older woman, like you for an example.¡± I said curly.


    Laughing heartily, she slapped me on my shoulders.


    ¡°A bit shy aren¡¯t we. So should I book a room for two?¡±


    Pinching her forehead, Farris looked at Brenda saying, ¡°No, justone. I need to head back to the clinic soon.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so lousy. We¡¯ve been friends for a long time. Stay and tell me all about your ¡®little friend¡±


    ¡°Maybe next time, when you¡¯re not being so weird.¡±


    From there, they started going at it, where Brenda would poke at Farris continuously. Being slightly ignored, but amazed at Farris being on the defensive. I started to grow a slight fondness for the hyper intensive innkeeper.


    Finally running out of steam, Farris decided to high tail it out


    of here.


    ¡°I¡¯m heading back now Dustin.¡±


    ¡°Yeah I hear you. See you later now.¡±


    Waving goodbye to both Brenda and I, she walked out.


    Turning to me, Brenda said, ¡°Don¡¯t mind her honey. She takes jab sat me from time to time too. Just getting under her skin is such a refreshing feeling.¡±


    Nodding, I agreed.


    After wiping up the floor, she guided me to the receptionist table.


    ¡°How long are you staying? It¡¯s 12 copper a night, 19 including food.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll pay upfront for a week then, including food.¡±


    Pulling out my change, I handed her the correct amount.


    ¡°Good. I¡¯ll give you some information then. Do you want to hear?¡±


    ¡°Sure go ahead.¡±


    ¡°A little birdie told me that tomorrow, soldiers and medical personnel will be heading out to the monster horde and will fight them half a days away.¡±


    Running the information in my head for a bit, I spoke up.


    ¡°And that would include Farris too then. Why are you telling me this?¡±


    ¡°Just thought you guys were so chummy together, that you would like to know.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, wished she told me herself.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s more secretive than she lets on to be. Anyway your room number is 56 and here¡¯s the key.¡±


    Giving her thanks, I made my way up the stairs and to my bedroom.


    After unlocking the door, I went ahead and checked my bed for any mites.


    ¡°Looks all clear.¡± I whispered to myself.


    Taking off all my armor, then resting my sword against the wall, I snubbed out the candles, before laying still in my bed.


    While laying down, my own memories came pouring in. From the time I was taught the sword to when my brother died and now to when my parents died.


    With a few tears in my eyes, I wish nobody else goes through what I did.


    I¡¯ll see if I could go with Farris tomorrow. Just in case anything happens.


    With that final thought, my mind slipped its way into slumber.


    ***

 [V1] Chapter 2 - A New Day (Part 1)

    Chapter 2 - (Part 1)


    Stirring out of my bed, I heard banging coming from my door. Taking a moment to get my bearings I stood up and stretched.


    ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Brenda. You awake yet?¡±


    ¡°Nh. Yeah I am now. What you want?¡±


    ¡°Breakfast is ready Dustin.¡±


    ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll be down in a minute.¡±


    Hearing her footsteps leaving, I noticed that the room was blindingly bright.


    ¡°Why is it so bright in here¡± I whispered, rumbling eyes.


    Looking around, I noticed that the sky has finally cleared up, and the chirping of birds reached my ears.


    The sunlight feels so good. Almost forgotten how it felt.


    Stretching a bit more, I went over to my duffle bag, taking out my armor, and putting it on.


    With my sword at my side, I walked out of the door and down the stairs.


    ***


    ¡°Morning. Get a good night of rest?¡± Brenda asked.


    ¡°Yeah. Feel pretty refreshed now.¡±


    ¡°Good. Now sit down and make yourself comfortable. I¡¯ll be back with your food.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Watching her leave into the kitchen, I sat down next to the fire place.


    After a waitress gave me some boiled water, I noticed some individuals walking towards me.


    ¡°Hey there. These seats taken?¡±


    Replying to the shaggy looking man, ¡°No, they¡¯re not. Feel free to sit anywhere.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Sitting down, they began discussing among themselves.


    ¡°You guys hear about the brigade that marched out during sunrise?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, they¡¯re was quite a ruckus yesterday, with everyone running around.¡±


    ¡°I heard that they¡¯re marching straight south to meet the monster horde coming.¡±


    ¡°Rumor around town says there is a wyvern or a dragon is within their ranks.¡±


    ¡°A wyvern!?¡± the saggy man coughed on his water.


    ¡°Shhh, don¡¯t make a scene. Did you hear about it too kid?¡±


    Being addressed by a tall, skinny man, I nodded.


    ¡°I actually saw it already.¡±


    With multiple gasps, they looked at me unbelievably.


    Addressing me again he asked, ¡°Really now. What did it look like?¡±


    ¡°It was pale blue, and over ten meters long. It breathed an azure flame, freezing the atmosphere. I still can¡¯t forget the way it looked at me, like some kind of prey.¡±


    ¡°I see, must be true then. My buddy from the army told me the same thing, when he was told by his superior. Reckon not many people heard those fine details.¡±


    I nodded in agreement, when the saggy man interrupted.


    ¡°Bullshit. No way would a wyvern leave the mountains of the south¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true what I said, Nick. Apparently all the higher ups in Amber Light are making a huge fuss about this. Some of them are claiming the storm from yesterday is what brought them down here.¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s the storms fault now? Might be true, considering that eerily glow since a week ago. But even that wouldn¡¯t drive a beast like that down here.¡±


    ¡°Maybe something more dangerous appeared there?¡±


    ¡°Steve stop, you¡¯re being superstitious. I don¡¯t want you to trouble the lad here.¡±


    Looking at me, Nick gave me a weary grin.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it, you guys. I¡¯ll be fine. Might not look like much, but I¡¯m quite capable on my own.¡± I said gesturing towards my sword.


    ¡°True that.¡± Steve laughed, ¡°So you¡¯re a swordsman then? What¡¯s your name sonny?¡±


    ¡°Just call me Dustin. Just arrive in town three days ago.¡±


    ¡°I see. Well I¡¯m Steve and this next to me is Nick.¡±


    ¡°Nice to meet you Dustin. I also consider myself a swordsman.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about Nick? You can¡¯t even flay a dam catfish right.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re one to talk Steve. Last time I heard, you tried out for one of the reserves, but couldn¡¯t even make it after a single day of training.¡±


    ¡°Blasphemy, I¡¯ll always be better than you.¡±


    While I listen to them bicker to one other, Brenda came by with our food.


    ¡°Here you go Dustin. You may want to hurry though. I just heard that the staff at the clinic had already left with the guards.¡±


    ¡°Thanks Brenda, I¡¯ll do that.¡±


    ¡°No problem dear. Don¡¯t let your girlfriend get hurt you hear?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not my girlfriend. Just a friend in general.¡±


    ¡°Sure, sure. Whatever you say. <3¡±


    ¡°Ugh, no wonder she can¡¯t stand you¡­.¡± I whispered to myself.


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    Straightening my expression, I asked, ¡°So, Brenda. You know what would be the quickest way to catch up with them?¡±


    Crossing her arms and placing a finger to her chin, she said, ¡°If I remember, exiting from the east gate, then go straight south from the intersecting roads .Should get you there in a couple of hours, before night fall.¡±


    ¡°Looks like I really do need to hurry.¡±


    ¡°Yep. See you around. Later Dustin.¡±


    ¡°You too and stay safe.¡± I replied, giving her a wave.


    Turning back to my food, I noticed that Steve and Nick had finally settle their differences.


    ¡°Nick I¡¯m still better than you.¡±


    ¡°Keep dreaming Steve.¡±


    Perhaps they haven¡¯t settle anything.


    As I was eating my breakfast, Nick turned to me.


    ¡°Couldn¡¯t help, but notice that you and the innkeeper were having a secret chat.¡±


    ¡°Now you say that, I do remember him being all lovey dovey with that hag.¡±


    Giving a stiff smile I replied, ¡°And here, I thought you guys were too busy to notice anything.¡±


    ¡°Aye, we usually bicker with one another. It just shows, how close we are.¡± said Nick.


    Nodding in agreement, Steve said, ¡°So you¡¯re heading straight out then?¡±Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    ¡°Yeah, after I eat first though. Planning on getting a horse at the gate, then making straight to their encampment.¡±


    Thinking for a moment, Steve said, ¡°Just be careful out there. Monsters encounters have been rising for the past few years.¡±


    ¡°Thanks. I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡±


    Nick followed up saying, ¡°Especially watch out for giant spiders. They like stalking travelers, before they strike when you¡¯re not paying attention.¡±


    ¡°Did you say giant spiders?¡±


    Nodding, he continued, ¡°Yeah, they are mean buggers. Heard some mercenaries found a colony of them near here. The black ones are quick on their feet, and red ones can spit venom for meters. If you protect your eyes and watch your surroundings, you should be fine.¡±


    Adding on to that, Nick said, ¡°Also, if you find anything else out there, you should report it.¡±


    ¡°So giant spiders were real. And here I thought, they were made up stories for kids.¡±


    Witnessing them both nodding in agreement, I said.


    ¡°Okay well I¡¯m finished eating already, I guess I¡¯ll head out and get ready.¡±


    ¡°Take care.¡±


    ¡°Be safe.¡±


    Waving them goodbye, I exited the Owl¡¯s Inn, making my way east.


    ***


    Without a single cloud in the sky, I can finally see the blue sky. The roads were less busy than yesterday, and multiple shops were closing early, in preparations for the horde. Looking around I noticed quite a few guards wondering about, mostly striking up conversations with a few of the merchants.


    ¡°Rather peaceful here, compared to yesterday.¡± I mumbled to myself.


    As I walked to the east gate, the number of soldiers increased, until I was in, seeing distance of the gate. Before I could get any closer though, I was stopped by a group of soldiers.


    ¡°Hey there lad. It¡¯s dangerous to be out wondering about. You did hear about the monsters coming from the south?¡±


    Turning towards him, I said, ¡°Yeah I did. I¡¯m actually heading over to the east gate to catch up with someone.¡±


    Silently he placed his hand on my shoulder and then bent over.


    ¡°It¡¯s really not safe out there. It wouldn¡¯t do my conscious any good if I let a young man like yourself out there.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. I use to live down south until it was attack by the horde. I should be fine following the brigade.¡±


    Glancing at my sword, he straightened himself saying, ¡°I take it that sword isn¡¯t for looks then.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir, it isn¡¯t. I¡¯m rather trained in the art.¡±


    Joyfully he said, ¡°How about this then. Have a little bout with me. If you impress me, I¡¯ll lend you an escort, if not then you have to stay back.¡±


    ¡°The added protection does sound rather good, but how can I trust you then?¡±


    ¡°Indeed. We¡¯ll have someone as a judge, to see if you qualify. So how about it?¡±


    ¡°Sure, where to?¡±


    ¡°After me then.¡± Said the guard, gesturing me to follow.


    While following him, the other group of soldiers caught interest in what was happening and decided to follow along. Hearing whispers, I noticed that the one who challenged me was no ordinary person.


    ¡°Is Ben actually dueling with a sprout like that?¡±


    ¡°No way. The captain must be on edge. He must want to relax a bit or do a bit of a warm up with that kid.¡±


    So I was challenged by the captain of the guard... I really hope I don¡¯t screw this up.


    Seeing me slightly nervous, Ben said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about them. They¡¯re pretty round-up too. I¡¯m just doing this more for myself than for you.¡±


    ¡°I see. Please don¡¯t do anything crazy then.¡±


    Smiling to himself, we finally made it to an open lot, overgrown with a few weeds. As the crowd grew in size, Ben went ahead and received two training swords from someone, before tossing me one.


    ¡°May I ask what your name is lad?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just Dustin, how about yours?¡±


    ¡°Benjamin from the House of Joyce.¡±


    Little bit surprised I asked, ¡°You¡¯re an aristocrat?¡±


    ¡°Just a minor one from a baron. I consider myself more of a swordsman, training to become a master.¡± chuckled Ben.


    Continuing Ben said, ¡°This is more like loosening up for me. However, I¡¯ll still take you serious, so don¡¯t hold back.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll have the honors of first strike then. Would that be okay with you, Benjamin?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it would fine, Dustin.¡±


    Holding the sword up, I grasped it with my right hand as I leaned back, on my left foot. Seeing the change of my atmosphere, Ben did the same, after signaling for the referee to start the match.


    With a wave from the judge, I exhaled forcibly raising my left hand to my waist.


    ¡°An impressive stance.¡± murmured Ben.


    Soon following my lead, Ben, raised his sword and leaned forward. With his eyes glaring at my every movement, I slowly shuffled my way closer and closer.


    Once I was just outside of his strike range, I feinted left with my front foot, before ducking low and stepping to the right.


    Slipping up, for just a moment, broke his posture. But he recovered instantly, barely guarding against a horizontal slash to his side.


    With a grunt, I was being pushed back as our blades stayed connected.


    Watching his body movement, I instinctually back peddled once he tried separating.


    Barely seeing a flash of his sword, I noticed it already swinging downwards from where I use to be.


    Slightly impressed, I managed to dodge it, Ben said, ¡°Nice footwork there. Surprising, you were able to read my body movement, in a split of a second.¡±


    ¡°Thanks for the compliment. And your last strike was extremely fast.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just a technique to force back my opponent. Nothing that impressive¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    Smiling contently at my sudden wariness, he took a step back, than charged straight towards me.


    With his blade close to his body, he lunge it outward, giving me only a second to react.


    Seeing the iron blade less than a foot away from my stomach, I hurriedly made contact with my sword against it, proceeding to step to the side, parrying it away.


    Then in one motion, I spun around, rotating my sword into a one eighty spin, aiming for his body.


    Recovering from the parry, he ducked down below my blade and slashed towards my legs.


    Noticing this incoming blow, I abandon the ground, and leaped into the air.


    Slightly amazed, Ben stepped in even closer, letting his blade to continue to move, until he forcibly raised it to meet me midair.


    With nowhere to run or dodge, I moved my sword outwards connecting with his, allowing the blow to slide straight up and above my head.


    Now landing back on the ground, I crouched suddenly, launching my body forward, drawing my sword upwards in a flash.


    Taking a step back from my surprise attack, I managed to graze his chest piece.


    However, this was short lived, as I failed to notice him retracting his blade, lunging it forward again, aiming for my shoulder.


    With a soft impact, the sword pushed me off balance, signaling the end of the bout.


    Grinning intently, he sheathed his sword before clapping.


    ¡°Bravo. Not that many people who can get a blow on me like you did.¡±


    Little bit upset for making a rookie mistake, I replied, ¡°Thank you¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be sad. I¡¯m rather good with the blade. Even you pushed me quite a bit. At the end if you didn¡¯t lose focus, then who knows what may have happened.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right Ben. A little bit more training, then I would have won.¡±


    Laughing heartily he retorted, ¡°Only maybe. Anyway, you impressed me lad. So to honor our agreement, you can go ahead and pick a guard to tag along with you.¡±


    ¡°I get to pick?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it would be boorish of me, if I chose someone you wouldn¡¯t get along with.¡±


    Slightly grinning I said, ¡°You¡¯re quiet a likable guy, when you¡¯re not challenging kids to a fight.¡±


    ¡°It was a duel. But anyway, thanks for the warm up. Feels a lot better getting the blood moving.¡±


    ¡°It does feel good to move around a bit.¡±


    ¡°Well I won¡¯t tarry here any longer. I have other plans to attend to. You¡¯re welcome to stay here or continue past the gate ahead. Come see me when you¡¯re free, so we can have another joust.¡±


    Nodding to him, he left into the scattering crowd waving goodbye to me.


    He was an impressive swordsman. But that was a warm up for him? That is not even funny to think about. Must be joking around.


    While I was thinking to myself in the open lot, I felt a tap on my shoulder.


    Turning around I noticed a black haired guard giving me a blinding smile.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Me? You don¡¯t remember? Try and remember.¡±


    ¡°You do look short of familiar. Yet again, there are a lot of faces I tend to forget.¡±


    Slightly shocked, the black haired man slumped forward a bit.


    ¡°Really? Thought we kind of hit it off yesterday.¡±


    ¡°Yesterday?¡± I said pondering for a bit. ¡°Oh you¡¯re that guard from the smith!¡±


    ¡°Oh you remember now?¡± said the man perking up quite a bit.


    ¡°No, sorry.¡± I responded placing my arms behind my head.


    Immediately he leaned over and let out a sigh.


    ¡°I¡¯m Sam, the guy you asked questions to. Like about the sudden increase of guards and stuff.¡±


    ¡°Ah, I remember now. Thanks again for informing me.¡±


    ¡°Well anyway, where is that pretty woman at?¡±


    ¡°Oh her? She is the reason I had to battle your captain.¡±


    Shocked at what I said, he immediately looked both ways, then whispered, ¡°The captain has his eyes on her too?¡±


    Brushing him aside, I responded, ¡°Don¡¯t misunderstand. I was trying to leave so I can catch up with Farris who is currently with the brigade right now. He stopped me, claiming I was too young to go out and stuff. But I think he just wanted to test his blade with mine.¡±


    ¡°Hmm, does sound like captain though. So you¡¯re heading out now?¡±


    ¡°Yeah want to come with?¡±


    Thinking for a moment, he said, ¡°I want to, but the captain won¡¯t let me off the hook then.¡±


    Smiling at him I said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. Ben said I could take an escort with me. So hurry up and let¡¯s go.¡±


    Standing up tall, Sam gave me a high five.


    ¡°Nice job lil bro. don¡¯t worry, Sam will accompany you to your mom.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not my mother asshole.¡±


    Still smiling, Sam shrugged, hurrying me up to the gate.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go before captain changes his mind Dustin.¡±


    ¡°Only if you calm down a bit. I need to rent some horses real quick.¡±


    Slowly we approached the stables, during which, he asked questions about Farris as I answered.


    ***

 [V1] Chapter 2 - A New Day (Part 2)

    Chapter 2 ¨C Part 2


    This was my very first time, seeing Amber Light from a distance. It had huge limestone walls around the main town; while outside of the walls were multiple scat-folds with construction workers scattered about.


    Ten minutes have passed since leaving the east gate, when we finally made it to the city limits. Upon exiting, we noticed that a second limestone wall was being constructed, isolating the new section of the city.


    While galloping away, I asked Sam, ¡°Is it really necessary to have a second wall?¡±


    ¡°Not really, but having it here, gives a good sense of security.¡±


    ¡°But it must cost a fortune though, to log around those blocks. I don¡¯t see why they would do that.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know the details, but it is a bit expensive, but the mayor can still afford it. Mainly because the feudal lord is being funded by the crown, in an attempt to develop this place into a satellite city.¡±


    ¡°A satellite city? Is it close to the main city then?¡±


    Holding his chin, Sam said, ¡°Four days by carriage and two by horse. The place is further north and it¡¯s called Twilight Apatite, named after its apatite mine. Same with how, Amber Light is name after its amber mine.¡±


    ¡°Pretty straight forward, for a name. Who came up with it?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know that much, but I can guess the queen. When considering the rumors, they say she¡¯ll kill anyone over a pretty stone.¡±


    Briefly being shocked, I said, ¡°Seriously?¡±


    ¡°Like I said, I don¡¯t know. It could be that someone under the king was piss drunk and just came up with it on the spot. Doesn¡¯t really matter much to me though. I get paid either way.¡±


    Thinking for a moment, I asked, ¡°I can¡¯t see the reason to spend so much money, developing this place, just for some pretty rocks. There must be something else?¡±


    Grinning then shrugging on his horse, Sam replied, ¡°There¡¯s a bunch of underground caverns in the area. In more than a dozen of tunnels below us, they¡¯re mining deposits of magicite ore.¡±


    ¡°Magicite? What is that?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t know much, Dustin. All I heard is, it¡¯s used in research related to magic, and the royal guards have weapons made out of it. Apparently it¡¯s a good conductor of magic, found naturally in the environment.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s rather unusual for a rock. Maybe I should go find some later and take it to Max or maybe Cecilia and see what they can do with it.¡±


    Giving me a laugh, Sam retorted, ¡°It¡¯s illegal to personally own anything made out of magicite, but if they don¡¯t find out, no harm done.¡±


    ¡°That just make me want it more Sam. Must be some secret they¡¯re hiding if there willing to throw so much money, into Amber Light.¡±


    ¡°Maybe so.¡±, Sam replied, forcing his horse into a dash, ¡°Let¡¯s hurry up, so we don¡¯t arrive before night fall.¡±


    ¡°Agreed.¡±


    Cutting our conversation short, I followed Sam, as we dashed farther away from the city and came swiftly across the intersection. Taking the road south from here, should get us to our destination.


    Eventually the scenery changed from being plains, to being a forest. Slowing our horses to a gallop, we quietly followed the trail leading into the woods.


    ¡°Dustin, be careful out here in the woods. I heard from some mercenaries, that giant spiders roam somewhere around here.¡±


    ¡°I heard about that too, from the inn I¡¯m staying at. Apparently there are quick black ones, and red colored ones, who can spit venom into your eyes if you¡¯re not careful.¡±


    Turning serious, Sam said, ¡°Dually noted. Let¡¯s be cautious then. Holler if you catch anything suspicious.¡±


    ¡°Right back at you.¡± I said.


    Slowly we proceeded down the path, noticing some areas burnt down. Judging from the warm coals left over, it must have been from the brigade that passed through. Quickening our pace, we came across more burnt places, and started to notice multiple spider threads starting to appear in the area.


    ¡°I¡¯m not liking, how this looks Sam.¡±


    Waiting for a reply, I turned my head and met Sam¡¯s glance.


    Speaking quietly he replied, ¡°Me too. Look over here. There is a few corpses.¡±


    Following his drawn sword, I saw a few spider caucuses lying on the ground. Looking at the multiple wounds, they must have ran into a few soldiers around here.


    ¡°Is this the reason, they took the east gate, instead of the southern one?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Looks like it. The mayor must be trying to kill two birds with one stone.¡±


    Hearing this, I slowly draw my sword, just in case.


    Speeding up to a quick trot on our horses, Sam and I began discussing, about how to avoid the spiders nested here; until we came to the middle of the woods, and found a burnt down clearing.


    From one side to another, the clearing was over two hundred meters across. While looking at the ground, we saw multiple charred bodies scattered around.


    Looking at me, Sam nervously said, ¡°When I agreed to be your escort, I wasn¡¯t planning on walking into a fucking spider nest like this.¡±


    Wearily, I said, ¡°I never expected them to go out and cull the monsters around here, to begin with. I just assumed, they would just charge straight towards the horde farther south.¡±


    ¡°Well Dustin, you short of assumed wrong¡­¡± Sam said, before cutting himself off.


    Noticing him becoming quiet, I looked around slightly startled. All around us, ash mounds were shaking and then something came out from underground, sensing that we were here.


    Continuing, Sam retorted, ¡°Just my fucking luck. Trapdoor spiders. I really hit the jackpot today. I should just call it a day, instead of chasing some tail¡­.¡±


    Slightly chuckling from his remark, I jumped down from my horse.


    ¡°Sam I only see around seven spiders. Luckily they¡¯re all black.¡±


    ¡°Good. I¡¯ll take on three of them then.¡±


    ¡°What? Why do I have to take on four?¡±


    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re the one who drag me into this.¡±


    ¡°If I remember correctly, you pretty much volunteered yourself, trying to get out of guard duty.¡±


    Slightly mumbling to himself, he replied, ¡°I saw your duel with the captain. You¡¯re a better fighter than me, okay.¡±


    Taking that as a compliment, I gave him a nervous grin, ¡°Thanks, maybe I should help you out then.¡±


    Nodding slightly, Sam got off of his horse, and took a stance with a sword and shield in hand.


    ¡°Just be careful Dustin. Back off if you need a quick break. I¡¯ll bash them with my shield for you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind. They¡¯ve finally made it to the surface.¡±Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    Looking around in the burnt field, seven black creatures arose from the ashes, and gathered to form a pack.


    Gradually, they walked in unionism with their gigantic legs, silently approaching us.


    Once they were within ten feet of us, they stopped and looked at me.


    Gulping I realized something was up. Noticing saliva dripping from their mandibles, I shivered for a bit.


    They must think I¡¯m an easier target. I¡¯m not wearing full-plate armor like Sam.


    Then one spider pointed at me and made squeaking noises, while the others gave a nod.


    These fucking, three feet long spiders.... I¡¯m lean and fit. Do I really look that tasty?


    Taking a brief breath, I held my bastard sword with both hands, taking a defensive stance.


    Seeing that I wasn¡¯t moving, they must have thought I was frighten and was shocked still. However, I was just waiting, ready to counter anything they throw at me.


    Eventually, one of them couldn¡¯t stand their hunger any longer, and hurled itself at me.


    Seeing the tiny red eyes preying on me, I swiftly dodged to the side, slashing where I was.


    With a hiss, the spider jump over my swing before landing next to Sam. However, Sam managed to strike it down, penetrating his sword straight through its gut and into the ground.


    ¡°You¡¯re pretty damn unlucky Dustin. They¡¯re looking at you like a butchered pig.¡± chuckled Sam.


    ¡°Hahaha, very funny. Maybe I should throw a couple more spiders at you then.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather you not.¡± he whimpered.


    Noticing, one of their comrades had abruptly died, they decisively scattered, with four aiming at me, while the last two went after Sam.


    Great why do I still get four of them?


    Coming back to reality, I noticed them shuffling towards me attempting to corner me from all four side.


    Within seconds, they decided to charge. Once they were close enough, they reared up their front legs, leaping towards me, trying to stab right through my gut.


    Making a split second decision, I charged to the one to my left; until I was within a few inches from the spider¡¯s claws. Before it could kill me, I slid on the ground raising my blade, managing to shred four of its legs off.


    Without stopping, I got back to my feet and ran. While looking back, I saw the other three chasing after me.


    Slowly they grew closer and closer, until two of them lunged towards my back. In reaction, I abruptly stopped, turned around and slashed into the air, feeling two distinct crunches. Then I jumped back, dodging the third spider, where I noticed two split carcasses laying on the ground.


    Suddenly the last spider stopped its pursuit and eyed me carefully. With a hiss, it slowly circled me looking for an opening in my defense.


    Huffing for a bit, I gritted my teeth, feeling my old wounds opening up again. Feeling a throbbing growing stronger in my shoulder, I looked for Sam, seeing that he had only one foe left too.


    ¡°Sam, cover me for a bit.¡± I yelled out.


    Giving me a brief nod, he slowly made his way to me, as I slowly walked to him.


    Finally being back to back, he asked, ¡°What wrong Dustin?¡±


    Squeezing out an answer, I replied, ¡°Just a few injuries reopened. I just need a breather, so keep them off me for a minute.¡±


    Giving a bright smile, Sam raised his shield, bashing his sword hilt against it, managing to draw their attention.


    While looking at Sam, with all of their thirty six eyes, they reared their front legs up.


    Swiftly, they both slashed there appendages towards him, having their claws screeching off of the metal shield. Taking the initiative to counter attack, Sam abruptly bashed his shield into both of their faces.


    Slightly dazed and trying to fall back, allowed Sam to make a quick sprint towards one of them, plunging his sword into its horrifying maw.


    Ripping his blade out of its skull, he silently observed the last spider.


    Gazing at its last brethren being slayed, the monster briskly turned around and accurately shot out silk, towards Sam.


    Luckily, Sam read this beforehand and moved his shield into its trajectory. With sticky web on his shield, he abandoned it and threw his sword at his last opponent.


    With a screech, it fell to the floor with a sword sticking out of its abdomen.


    Checking to make sure it didn¡¯t move, Sam gave a victory pose, while casually walking over to the body. Suddenly, behind him, the ground began to shake, as a red figure clawed its way out of the ground.


    Gazing at it, I suddenly sprinted over to Sam, tackling him to the ground.


    With both of us rolling on the ground, I heard a whistling sound. Looking back up, we then saw corrosive spit splattering on the dead spider, eating away at its flesh.


    Taking a risky gamble, I hurled my sword, watching as it arced in the sky, before ripping through the beast.


    Without a single sound, it fell to the forest floor with a thud.


    Looking at what just happened in shock, Sam gave a blank look.


    Sheepishly he said, ¡°Thanks Dustin. Those bastards must have planned this from the start.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem. It¡¯s the least I should do, after dragging you here.¡±


    Brushing ourselves off, we bee-lined it back to our horses.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get the hell out of here quick!¡± Sam said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t have to tell me twice.¡±


    Quickly, we galloped out of the spider nest and made it back onto the trail.


    The further we got from the nest, the fewer webs appeared, and soon the forest turned normal once again.


    After an hour of galloping through the woods, we finally made it out back onto the plains.


    ¡°I never want to go inside those woods ever again.¡±


    After agreeing with Sam I eventually said, ¡°Its midday, we should hurry a bit.¡±


    ¡°Won¡¯t argue with that. I can¡¯t wait to see Farris. You think she would be interested in partnering up with me?¡± asked Sam.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask me. I never had a girlfriend before. But, if you tell her how you risked your life to come see her, maybe she might become interest.¡± I replied shrugging.


    Hugging himself, he said, ¡°Thanks lil bro. I definitely will make her happy.¡±


    Being grossed out for a bit I gave a strained smile.


    ¡°Why are you being so creepy now Sam? Back in the woods, you were, kind of cool and brave. What happened to that Sam?¡±


    ¡°Silly Dustin. Love does strange things to men. It was love at first sight, when I saw her in front of Max¡¯s.¡±


    ¡°Well I hope you won¡¯t think twice when you actually get to know her. She can be a bit devilish at times.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. She will change for me. I just know it.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­.¡±


    After listening to him talking about future plans he has for Farris and me, we continued down the dirt road, making our way to the camp.


    Two hours later, dusk was swiftly approaching and in the distance we could see smoke rising.


    ¡°You see that Sam?¡±


    ¡°See what?¡±


    ¡°The smoke. It¡¯s coming from over there.¡± I said, pointing to the south east.


    ¡°Oh I see it now. You think they already encountered the enemy there?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t know. Let¡¯s hurry and find out Sam.¡±


    Forcing our horses into a sprint, we quickly approached our destination.


    The closer we got to the area, the more pronounced the smell of ash filled the air. All around us, we started to hear the clanging of weapons and roars of beast.


    Finally, we made it, coming across the campsite with hundreds of tents and a makeshift wall and moat surrounding the place.


    ¡°Dustin, you see over there? Past the camp and on top of the hill?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I see it.¡±


    Looking over, there was thousands of monsters of all types facing a brigade of soldiers. In the sky over the battlefield, we were able to make out streaks of red and blue, as they exploded into swarms of enemies.


    ¡°Where do you think she is right now?¡± asked Sam.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I would guess, likely inside of the camp.¡±


    Thinking for a moment, he said, ¡°I should probably lead then. The soldiers stationed inside should recognize my uniform.¡±


    After gesturing him to lead on, we swiftly ran down hill, and came across a wooden bridge leading into the fort. After passing a few sentries stationed around the perimeter, Sam got us in without a problem.


    Looking around inside the camp, multiple white tents were scattered about and very few guards had stayed back.


    Most of the soldiers should be on the battlefield already.


    ¡°You know where she might be at?¡± I asked Sam.


    ¡°Yeah. They keep the medical personal inside of a tent with a red cross. Just prepare yourself lad. You might see some gruesome things inside of the tent.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. I can take care of myself. Let¡¯s hurry.¡±


    In five minutes, we spotted the tent we were looking for. Seeing multiple injured people entering the tent, we closely followed them in. Once inside, I looked to the side, and saw a tons of dead bodies, all piled up to one side of the tent. Then on the stretches, where I heard screaming and moaning, were men grasping at their missing limbs.


    Pushing those images out of my mind, I looked around and didn¡¯t see Farris anywhere. However, I noticed an older gentleman coming up to us.


    ¡°You guys don¡¯t look like you came with the army. What are you here for?¡±


    Speaking up for the both of us, I replied, ¡°I¡¯m Dustin and I was looking for Farris. Do you know where she might be?¡±


    ¡°Farris you say? Dustin¡­. Oh you¡¯re that boy who came into my infirmary a day back.¡±


    ¡°Your infirmary?¡±


    ¡°Ah yes. My name is Peter and I run the clinic in Amber Light.¡±


    ***

 [V1] Chapter 2 - A New Day (Part 3)

    Chapter 2 - part 3


    ¡°So you told the commander about the threat of the wyvern?¡±


    ¡°Yeah I did, after I read the report Farris gave me.¡±


    Interrupting our conversation, Sam asked, ¡°Peter where is Farris right now?¡±


    ¡°Her? She is part of the team, dragging the injured off of the battle field right now.¡±


    ¡°You know where she might be out there?¡± I asked.


    ¡°She went to the west entrance. If you asked one of the guards there, they should point you in the right direction.¡±


    Leading us out of the tent, Peter pointed the way she went.


    ¡°Just be careful out their young lad.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry Peter. I¡¯ll watch over Dustin.¡±


    ¡°You too, be careful. Don¡¯t get over your head now. Saw multiple soldiers like you dying, crying on the stretchers that are brought in, and begging to see their family one more time.¡±


    Sam¡¯s smile went away, being replaced with an unsettled one. Slowly, he glanced from Peter over to the west gate.


    ¡°Anything else we should watch out for?¡±


    ¡°Nothing much. Just a few thousands of monsters out there. If you guys, watch each other¡¯s backs, then their shouldn¡¯t be any problem.¡±


    ¡°Thanks Pete. I¡¯ll promise to protect her until this is all over.¡±


    ¡°Okay Sam. I¡¯ll make arrangements and make a spot on the side of the tent for you.¡±If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    Following Peter¡¯s eyes, both of us glanced over, seeing the pile of corpses.


    Giving a strain smile I said, ¡°I¡¯ll bring them both back, even if Sam loses a leg or two. So don¡¯t jinx us Peter. We¡¯re just going to be her escort and help her out for a bit.¡±


    As we were waving goodbye, Peter spoke up, ¡°Forgot to mention this, but I¡¯m curious. What is your relationship with Farris, Dustin?¡±


    My relationship? Friends? Lovers? Mother¡­. Wait not that. Fucking Sam is rubbing off on me.


    Coming back from my thoughts I said, ¡°More like friends, but¡­ I think I should repay her back. She helped heal me and took time out of her day to help me around town.¡±


    ¡°I see. She must be pretty lucky with friends like you and Sam.¡± Chuckled Peter.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re misunderstanding something though. She never met Sam before.¡± I laughed.


    Looking at Sam he gave a deep grunt.


    ¡°Hope you know soldier, that stalkers sometimes get hanged for rape charges.¡±


    Hearing a deep gulp, Sam spoke up, ¡°I would never do something like that mister. At the very least I would dine her and get her consent.¡±


    Bushing Sam off, Peter replied, ¡°All right get out of here. Don¡¯t want a hooligan stinking up the place.¡±


    Giving a strain smile, I pulled Sam behind me.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, stalker.¡±


    With an unhappy expression Sam watched Peter disappear back into the tent. After walking for ten minutes he finally spoke back up.


    ¡°Dammit that old hoot. He doesn¡¯t know anything.¡±


    Chuckling to myself, I said, ¡°What would you do when a stranger comes in and gives a passionate speech about your feelings for her. Then right before we headed off, he figures out you never met her before.¡±


    ¡°You little bastard. It was your fault for ruining my future plans!¡±


    ¡°Calm down Sam. It¡¯s payback for going on, none stop during our ride here about it.¡±


    ¡°Tch. This is just a slight bump in the road. I¡¯ll just need to try even harder now.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say. We¡¯re here now. Go find one of your fellow guards and ask where Farris went off to.¡±


    Perking back up, Sam gave a thumbs up and disappeared out of sight.


    ¡°Jeez. I don¡¯t know if I can handle someone like that. Just keeps on talking nonstop about his love life.¡± I whispered to myself.

 [V1] [Third Person] Act 1: The Beginning Chapter 1: Another Day Scene 1:

    Act 1: The Beginning


    Chapter 1: Another Day


    Scene 1:


    A shadow comes within view. Whistling, a blade misses a young man. Once again, the sword continues its assault. Over and over again, one sword against another, sparks fly out into the evening sky. Sweating and rugged breathing, the teenager sees an opening. Flinging his sword towards his teacher, he proceeds with his counter attack.


    The older man was not going to have any of this. Dodging left and right, jumping and parrying blow after blow, the teacher pushes back the student¡¯s assault.


    Dusk creeps up from the surrounding woods. A cool breeze lifts steam off of their training session. All the way till twilight the unending clash between parent and child echoed into the chilled sky.


    Feeling blood coursing through his veins, the teenager¡¯s perception of time slows down. The falling of autumn leaves became still and his opponent¡¯s over headed swing is brought to a snail¡¯s speed. Gazing upon the grizzly man, he avoids the slowed strike and thrusts his blade forward.


    Screeching reverberated into the air. The man stopped the sudden strike with the hilt of his blade. Balling up his fist, he sends a wind breaking punch into his son¡¯s flank.


    Forceful heaving soon followed. On the ground is the young man grasping his side. Face covered with dust, he looked up looking at his father¡¯s grinning face.


    Having a hand out, his father grips him, pulling him up. Brushing off the dirt, a slap on the back awakens him from is stupor. Bringing his coughing fit down, he wipes a few tears from his eyes and sheaths his practice sword.


    Leaning back and taking in the autumn air, brings him a lukewarm feeling. Catching a rag from his dad, the young man cleans off his dirty face. Placing the towel onto a wooden bench, he follows his father back home.


    Everyday ends like this. Training after a long day of hunting and splitting logs. Skinning animals after noon and training until dusk. Getting beaten repeatedly and growing stronger with each passing day. For nine years these days have remained unchanged.


    Walking side by side, the duo made their way down the dirt road. Glancing up, the pair noticed the last vestiges of sunlight cracking through from the horizon, turning the night sky crimson red. Passing a few buildings in the village, they stopped and admired the thriving community.


    ¡°Jarix has really come a long way. It¡¯s no longer a ghost town like it used to be.¡±


    In the past an airborne illness swept through the land. This illness caused those to become bedridden as they went into coughing fits. Soon a blistering red rash will follow, and the infected will be unable to move and eat. A few days later, they will end up dead.


    Contemplating this, the boy still questioned. ¡°Since the Red Plague?¡±


    Wearily smiling, the man roughs up his son''s head.


    ¡°Yeah. Since then.¡±


    Thinking back to those hard times, the man remembers his deceased son, William. Young and energetic, his youngest son would have always be waiting for him to return after a long day. Jumping into his legs and crawling up to his shoulders, he would come in and enjoy the warmth of his family. Still longing for the feeling of a complete family, the man knows this will never come to pass ever again.


    Noticing his father¡¯s melancholy look, the boy pried off the rugged hand on his head, and pulled him towards their house. Soon only cicada filled the atmosphere.


    ¡°Dustin. Your swordsmanship is still getting better. Pretty soon you¡¯ll out do even me.¡±If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Knowing he wasn¡¯t being serious, Dustin frowned at him.


    ¡°Would¡¯ve won if you didn¡¯t punch me during our match.¡± (Dustin)


    Noticing his grumbling, the father heartily laughed.


    ¡°Cheer up lad. Remember there is no rules on a battlefield.¡±


    ¡°Whatever you say, Lance.¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°Don¡¯t be like that. Linda wouldn¡¯t like you sulking every time you lose.¡± (Lance)


    ¡°At least mom wouldn¡¯t use me as a punching bag.¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°That¡¯s true. But I¡¯m training you for your own good. The world is a vast and dangerous place.¡± (Lance)


    ¡°I know. I just wish you would let me win at least one match.¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°You¡¯ll win once you¡¯re good enough. Your reaction time is pretty good, you just need to hit your growth spurt soon.¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°Yeah¡­once that happens, you¡¯ll be eating the ground instead¡­¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°Hmm? What was that Dustin?¡± (Lance)


    ¡°Huh? Oh nothing. Just admiring my sword.¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°Better be. That sword cost quite an amount¡±, grinned Lance. ¡°Your next birthday present won¡¯t be as expensive.¡± (Lance)


    ¡°But I need a bigger sword. I almost outgrown this one already.¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°I think you can still get another year¡¯s worth out of it.¡±(Lance)


    ¡°I¡¯ll be an adult by then!¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°Yeah, and you¡¯ll be able to buy your own then.¡± (Lance)


    ¡°At least give me one for my birthday tomorrow!¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°I¡¯ll think about it. Linda and I are planning on moving to the capital next month. Up there, they have a school for swordsmanship. Once we get there, I¡¯ll buy you a full size sword as a present.¡± (Lance)


    ¡°You promise?¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°Only after you enroll, and beat me in a match.¡± (Lance)


    ¡°That¡¯s next to impossible¡±, Dustin groaned. ¡°You¡¯ll just cheat like today!¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°Not cheating if you win in the end.¡± (Lance)


    Star light gradually fell onto the village. Multiple buildings glowed with a pale red as smoke wavered out of the chimneys. In the darkness of night, Dustin and Lance continued their way back home.


    ¡°When are we leaving Jarix?¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°After your birthday. The school only accept those with recommendations. Luckily we have some connections.¡± (Lance)


    ¡°Because you use to be a knight?¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°No. I know a noble who owes me one from the Ten Years War.¡± (Lance)


    A little over seventeen years ago, a major war accorded between multiple nations. During this war, Lance was serving the country as a knight under Frederick, the Margrave in charge of the western front. Towards the end of the war, an organized coup occurred in the country, and an assassination order was to be carried out on Fredrick. During the night of the operation, Lance managed to thwart the assassins, earning the gratitude of the noble.


    ¡°Is it the same one that made you lose your left hand?¡± (Dustin)


    At the side of the black haired man is an arm with a rounded stump at the end. While protecting Frederick, Lance ended up in emergency care, where he learned he would be retiring early due to being maimed.


    ¡°Same one. I just have to mention my name and he¡¯ll get you in. Already made arrangements with him and he is more than happy to return a favor.¡± (Lance)


    ¡°You really think I¡¯m good enough for a prestigious school like that?¡± (Dustin)


    Laughing openly, Lance said, ¡°Funny hearing this from my own son, when he already beaten full grown men. You only need to grow bigger, to get more power behind your blows. You¡¯re speed is abnormally fast. Same with your reaction time; I doubt any school will be rejecting you.¡± (Lance)


    ¡°I¡¯m worried they might have me duel someone like you though.¡± (Dustin)


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. You¡¯ll do just fine.¡± (Lance)


    ¡°I hope so.¡±, whispered Dustin. (Dustin)


    In the distance, a single house lying next to the vast forest, came into view. Slightly bigger than those they came across earlier, but was similar with the glow it gave off. At the entrance was a brunette woman, swinging back and forth on a chair, knitting. When she saw Lance and Dustin, she stood up and beckoned them in.


    ¡°Dinners ready guys.¡± (Linda)


    ¡°What are we having?¡± (Lance)


    ¡°Your favorite.¡± (Linda)