ã€ŠSoul Kiln Sagaã€‹


 Prologue

    Abyss, a deep umbral haze hung upon the world, heavy and oppressive. Upon this night the moons deemed their brilliance forfeit to all, their glorious form hidden from sight.

    Such darkness, such utter void could never be orchestrated by anything natural. And so it was not, for something more pressed upon the skies, something arcane and twisted, with a tinge of blood and death.

    ¡°Venerated Brother, the time draws near. Blessed be his most eminence, the final Thrall has drawn breath¡±. The veil fires licked but did not betray the hooded figure¡¯s visage.

    ¡°And so it is, be proud brother, today a Lord is to be born¡± said the more ornate hooded man, his graveled voice belaying his advance age. ¡°Let us go to the prime array, our brothers and sisters awaits¡±.

    And so the older figure stood from his seat, and the pair walked out of the richly decorated alcove. The pair strode through the caverns, passing by many another hooded colleague attending to their duty. Making good time as if the pockets of eerie silence filled with death and decay alongside the shattering cries of infants were but an illusion, a figment of one¡¯s imagination, the duo pressed forth.

    Arriving, the plain hooded man bowed shallowly to the older man, and took his place amongst the throng of similarly dressed individuals. The ornately hooded man stepped forward unto the arrays, carved into the very cavern floors. The brothers and sisters formed a circle, shoulder to shoulder they enclosed the older man. With every step the arrays pulsed, like the beating of a heart. Foot by foot, the pulse grew stronger, faster. And as the old man neared its center the flashes of purple, with but a wisp of green, became blinding. However his strides were true, never faltering, with a singular purpose. And so he stopped for he had reached the core. The arrays hummed, his brothers and sisters a chorus of unity as the arcane pressed heavy upon one¡¯s very breath.

    There, unto the very core of the arrays. Within the very epicenter of the arcane energies laid two, bound and unconscious. Two that would be one. Two infants, one but a spawn of man, a human boy. The other, that of a creature of legends and myths. A being of power, the very depiction of carnage and destruction. A force of nature given form and purpose. There, but a fingers length from the infant boy, laid a dragon.

    ¡°UPON THE TWO THAT MINE EYES AND MIND LOOK UPON, WITH THE AID OF ALL THAT HAS COME BEFORE AND AFTER¡ª¡±. The cavern shook most violently disturbing all that took to its depths.

    ¡°Do not lose focus brothers and sisters!¡± bellowed the adorned man ¡°We must persevere, steadfast and resolute. For the glory of his most eminence!¡±. And so the circle chanted in greater earnest as the reverberations persisted, and the far flung sound of violence creeped closer.

    The old man reached within his cloak, drawing a small decanter to soothe his throat and wet his lips ¡°¡ªSEVER THEIR SOULS AND BODIES, MOLD THEM UNTO ONE, SO THAT WHERE THERE WAS ONCE TWO, NOW THERE IS BUT ONE¡±. The infant bodies twitched, then contorted at unnatural angles before turning to dust. And so laid their ashes, reduced to nothing, and all was silent and still. Time itself stayed its hand. The ashes pulsed, then shook, and fury ensued as the ashes spun into a wild vortex compressing upon itself. With an explosive crack, time flew again as the vortex imploded before exploding with such concussive force that it blew all whom ringed the arrays off their feet, all but the adorned man in the center.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    The old man gazed upon the form of the boy before him, his grin bare to the eyes as the explosive fury had deprived him of his hood, torn as it was off to sights unseen. And so the old Ljosalfar, for that was what he was, looked upon the boy, nay, his Magnum Opus.

    Disturbing his revelry, an equally adorned hooded figure approached him in haste. ¡°Brother, we must go for they have found us. Our kin are dying as you plot and scheme like a buffoon!¡± said the woman.

    ¡°Calm sister, his most eminence guides us. Now how many Thralls have we lost¡± he replied.

    ¡°Argh, by the ten brother by the bloody ten! That¡¯s hardly pertinent at the moment!¡± heaved the woman in reply.

    The two stared at each other, and as the instant stretched, sounds of fighting grew closer. With another shuddering quake of the caverns the woman relented with a sigh. She closed her eyes and stilled, moments later she uttered ¡°Six have escaped, one died in the conflict and the other fifteen died during the ritual.¡±

    The old Ljosalfar held a contemplating posture ¡°So we have not lost any to the intruders. Good. Now my dear sister, if you would be so kind as to escort our future Lord, your skills are more apt for the task than I¡±.

    The woman tensed, but the hood belayed no emotions ¡°Fine brother, fucking fine¡±, she picked up the infant gingerly and made for a raised alter in the far corner.

    ¡°Godspeed sister, his most eminence guide your steps¡± said the Alfar.

    As the hooded woman approached the altar there was a brilliant flash of light followed by the smell of ozone and a searing pain in her sides. Looking down she saw a chunk of her left abdomen burned cleanly through by what she presumed to be a bolt of lightning that shredded all her defenses as if they were but a novice¡¯s cantrip. Gathering her wits about she looked back to see utter chaos, the melee was in full force. The wounded woman took a deep breath to calm herself, and then willed her very existence void. She would not weight upon the consciousness, essentially becoming invisible to all. And so she hobbled the last few steps to the altar.

    Reaching out to the crystal upon the dais, the cloaked woman pushed it down, activating the altar in a show of light drawing all to look upon it. To the invaders however, it was for naught for they saw but a shining altar. Relief calmed the wounded woman as the altar was moments before finalizing its purpose.

    With a thunderous clap, the top of the cavern collapsed.

    Shadows stirred within the dust clouds heralding a whirlwind of such brutally that friend and foe alike were toppled to the ground. Wings unfurled as the scaled colossus took stock, landing upon the altar its golden slits narrowed into focus. Muscles rippled beneath thick scales as a war cry escaped the monstrosity, threatening to bring down the underground structure.

    The dais pulsed and then all was silent.

    Darkness prevailed and in its release the wounded woman felt her legs give way, a plush rug softening the fall. Coughing up blood she steadied herself and stood up. Clutching the infant closer she bent the world with her mind coercing forces arcane, sparks flew through the dark. Candles and lamps lit up revealing a comfortable room, the quaint scene meant but one thing. She had made it to safety, hidden thousands of miles away in the heart of the city of Naran. The cloaked woman placed the infant boy onto the bed before lying next to him, there would be time to plan after some rest. And her eyes closed per their own volition, heavy with the brutal night. It would be the deepest she would ever slumber, for their depths she would eternally remain.

 Chapter 1

    Winds howled, a twist of the wings and the world blurred as the gentle touch of the heavens caressed the crimson scales of one that dominates, one that rules through fear and awe, one that¡ª. The world shook and cracked, only to shatter unto countless pieces.

    ¡°Kain! Kain! Wake up¡± urged a wiry boy ¡°Kain!¡±.

    The red haired boy, not a ginger hew, true red. A dark crimson that reminds one of violence, of terror, of blood and chaos.

    ¡°Ugh, Andy¡­ quiet down¡± mumbled the red haired boy.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ¡®quiet down¡¯ me Kain. Ma¡¯am Katelyn is doing the rounds today¡± relayed the short boy with fear apparent upon his countenance.

    With new found haste the red haired boy scrambled. Coming off the thread bare cot, his height caused his left foot to skid across the wall of the cramped room. Splinters flew as Kain met the wall. Both children visibly paled as dread filled their faces.

    ¡°Andrew my good friend, the termites here are something fierce¡± stated Kain stoically.

    Veins bulged on Andrew¡¯s forehead, his friend had an uncanny gift in drawing the typically subdued boy¡¯s ire.

    ¡°Kain, I believe that wood chip between your nail would please said termites immensely¡± retorted the boy.

    The clearing of throat drew the two youths to the now open door of the clean, but bare room. In its arch stood Ettrepha herself, surely today they shall rejoin the cycle.

    ¡°The second bells have rung, Andrew to the kitchen, help the girls serve the meals¡± the wraith announced succinctly.

    And with a twitch of the brow she gazed upon the red haired youth ¡°Kain¡±, her eyes scanned the chipped wall ¡°By Aslena¡± she signed ¡°At the very least you will be the knights¡¯ problem in three years. You will fit well with those brutes¡±. Regaining her demeanor the priestess uttered ¡°To the stables, double duty¡±, the three stared at each other, the air thick with tension akin to duelists taking measure of one another ¡°Now you rascals!¡± the wraith screeched.

    ¡°Yes Ma¡¯am Katelyn¡± replied the youths straitening like boards.

    The high priestess of Aslena walked away, leaving the two in the dim stillness as the old woman¡¯s footsteps strayed afar. Suddenly the steps stopped, fearing the return of the wraith the youths broke into action cleaning their shared room before rushing to one another¡¯s respective tasks.

    With purpose Kain strode across the temple halls of the orphanage. Plain, that was the only way one could describe the low ceiling wooden hallways, plain but clean. Ha, a far cry from the vaulted marble halls of the knight wing and the exquisite and peaceful abodes of the high priestesses thought Kain. Passing by fellow orphans the red hair forged forward, the children shrinking in his wake. One would think I bite he chuckled, this achieved nothing but to make him more intimidating. How a ten year old could be intimidating was beyond Kain, ignoring the fact that few of his age was as tall and built as he, and even fewer could tackle a raged bull to the ground with ones bare hands at the tender age of eight.

    Walking out of the squat building Kain squinted against the morning rays, the common grounds a sprawling court of greens with patches of colors. I see that the old gardener is as obsessive as ever, the perfectly trimmed grounds spread before him. To his left at the common¡¯s edge was the lower temple, for the masses, for commoners. Before him, across the manicured grounds, lay the priestess halls. Enjoying the crisp morning air the morning dew did little to lift his mood, for he much preferred the soft caress of the noon sun. Of course the stable is attached to the orphanage Kain turned to his right, taking sight of the knight, high priestess, and the grand cathedral upon the elevated grounds into the distance. They so adore their stallions, but woe are they to smell their shit the youth sneered internally. Turning upon his heels the crimson child walked towards the stables. Placing a hand on the well-polished door the youth paused for a moment It still irks me that the stable is better housed than the orphan wing shaking such thoughts aside, Kain entered the stable.

    The youth greeted the man before him ¡°Greetings Master Grosslow¡±.

    ¡°Greetings, Lambert awaits you¡± said the hulk of a man whilst pointing his cane, returning his attention to the squire and runner about him in short order.

    Pragmatic as ever. Kain made for Grosslow¡¯s direction, meeting the stable hand in shortly thereafter ¡°M¡¯ning Lambert¡±.

    ¡°N¡¯aw, be quite a bad one¡± replied the raven haired teen, a poignant chin towards an unmoving charger ¡°Doran wants Socks here removed, figured you be the easiest way¡±.

    Kain massaged the bridge of his nose in exasperation ¡°Firstly Lambert, the last time someone caught you addressing to Master Grosslow as such you received five lashes. And by the ten, who names a charger Socks¡±.

    ¡°Aye, and first time you did so the whip shredded straight across your back¡± reposted the lanky teen.

    Got me there winced the youth. Kain looked upon the horse, a knotted rope winding the poor animal to allow for easy grip.

    Kneeling next to the fallen charger the crimson child reached out, heaving the creature with ease.

    ¡°Stupid healer forgot to remove the arrow head¡± said Lambert as he guided the red haired youth ¡°Died last night after a terrible fever, was moaning like a¡­¡±.

    The duo halted as the stable master glared holes through the teen.

    ¡°Out back, empty cart¡± said the middle aged man, favoring his braided beard.

    Laying the deceased horse into the cart, the youth shot at the teen ¡°I swear, you¡¯re out to have us swing¡±.

    The two returned to the stable, going through the motions doing the mundane choirs. Thrice rang, the bells tolled. The stable hands adjourned, Kain persisted, serving his extra hour as punishment even through breaks.

    Coming out the baths towards the dining hall the crimson youth met with another, as if the heavens ordained a doppelganger, a blonde doppelganger.

    ¡°You look worse for wares, Andy told me about the unfortunate morning. Grabbed some food for you¡± the blonde youth handed over a platter with a loaf of bread, some cheese and a few strips of smoked pork.

    ¡°Thanks Nichol¡± replied Kain accepting the proposed platter.

    ¡°Please, we look like siblings, might as well act the part¡±. The two conversed as the red haired boy ate.

    Chewing upon the final morsel ¡°So Nic, still going to buy Mely that dress¡± smirked Kain, evil dripping with every syllable ¡°Should go jut the two of, she might be more appreciative¡±.

    The blonde turned bright red, his fair complexion doing little to hide his embarrassment. At that moment Andrew and two girls approached the duo.

    ¡°Oh dear, are you well Nichol¡± graced the brunet girl, her voice soothing and serene to the soul.

    The slightly shorter red hair, a mundane red, smiled matching the evil of her unnatural red haired compatriot ¡°Yes Nic, is all well? Didn¡¯t you want to buy something in the lower city. ¡®It¡¯s a surprise¡¯, you said. I¡¯m sure Melissa will love to see¡±.

    Picking up where his partner in crime left off ¡°Indeed Jannet, I am sure Mely will be most amazed. Oh, what is a maiden in glee to do¡± said Kain.

    The blonde turned into a deeper shade of red, Melissa¡¯s confused non-response doing little to salvage the cornered youth¡¯s dignity. And so the group set forth, passing through the gates of the temple of Aslena which sat the edge of the noble districts.

    The posse wandered through the streets, bordering with the nobles created a haven for freemen merchants aiming to lighten the purse of all from the more miser noblemen to the well fared of the commoners. A courier ran headlong into Kain Hectic. Bloody loud as well the boy gathered himself, catching the eye of the human wall. He visibly paled, draining blood making him appear as a corpse within bright finery, dominated by blue and green.

    ¡°I beg your pardon Master, I presume you search for the Masters Breentlot. They are likely within Knight Grounds sparing at this time¡± warmed Nichol.

    The noble born found himself, straightening his doublet before responding to the much taller boy of similar age with renewed pomp and circumstance.

    ¡°Verily boy, I bid you thanks and good day¡± uttered the courier before prancing away.

    Really, we look alike yet our treatment is like night and day thought the crimson youth.

    ¡°Talking of which, does Sagard still hold you in contempt Kain?¡± asked Jannet.

    ¡°That¡¯s Master Breentlot, Jannet¡± said Andrew softly.

    Andy, Andy, all these lessons in etiquette is getting to you.

    ¡°Bah, likely just jealously. He knows that you will manhandle him once you join the Order¡± said the blonde.

    ¡°Oho, and say, who do you plan to manhandle once you join the knights in a ten-day¡± grinned the crimson devil with a knowing look to the brunet.

    The red haired second pounced, aiding the red demon in tormenting their prize. With renewed vigor the group weaved through the crowds of animated merchants and the populace, dodging stalls and rounding around shops and offices in their stroll to the lower city. Today was the third day, Aslena¡¯s day, the day of light. It was the day of rest for all those who seek the warmth of her bosom.

    Exiting the bustle of the markets, the group walked amidst the tasteful tiled roofs of the freemen. The houses and establishments becoming barer and more packed as they neared the lower city. Pausing to aid a toppled cart, the youths crossed the threshold to the lower city, skewered grilled meat in hand. We should stay out of the back alleys here, I doubt even I can endure a cudgel to the cranium. So they walked and laughed, jovial as only those unscathed by the tribulations of life could afford. Well past noon the little posse arrived upon the steps of a quaint double story establishment. Must be the seamstress Nic was on about. A young woman greeted the youths, her dull yellow one piece dress played by the midafternoon breeze, and bade them enter. Upon arriving unto a modest waiting room, as evident by the padded chairs and the clients¡¯ strewn about awaiting attending. Melissa¡¯s brow frowned in confusion over the realization of where they found themselves. However before she could gather her wits, the blonde youth that had managed to make himself scarce bounded down the stairs in short order, item in hand. The elegant gown swayed serenely within the blonde¡¯s grasp, softly he held the garment, caring for the frilly laces expertly lain about.

    ¡°Mely, you mentioned that you wanted a new dress for the festivals. I¡ª¡± the blonde youth was cut short as the brunet¡¯s soft lips found his, a single tear streaming from joy. They gazed unto one another, lost within the cosmos that were their eyes. Slowly the young couple to be turned pink, then a bright red as they took in the spectators ¡°Mel...¡± the young woman bolted out the abode before the boy could finish his utterance.

    Silence clawed upon the room, determine to prize it unto its clasped appendages.

    ¡°Nic your wits about you!¡± shouted Kain ¡°this is no place for a lone flustered girl to wander alone. No offence intended my ladies¡±

    The young red hair hastened after his chastened friend, the other trio shortly behind with Jannet pulling at the blank faced blonde.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    The bells tolled, then another, and by the third consequent tolling the youths collapse by the mouth of the umpteenth alleyway. This was the latest venue their frantic search had led them, another lead that vanished into thin air. Three hours they searched the streets. Three hours they harried passersby. Three hours they skulked the dark alleys and its denizens that glared upon them like fresh meat cast unto rabid dogs. Whatever vestige of hope they dared to hold onto slipping through their fingers as an apparition of Saresis himself. None of the four met eyes, afraid that such an act shall confirm the worst that they all thought but denied fervently. Just as the abyss slithered unto the defeated youths¡¯ psyche, out the umbral depth of the alley shot a wailing banshee. The youths beamed, it would appear as if Aslena smiled upon them this day. The brunet charged the red hair, both girls falling to the ground as Melissa bawled her eyes out. And as if by a cruel twist of fate, they emerged from the dark, seven hell spawns, squashing the newfound joy to nothingness.

    Walking out the alley the apparent leader of the hell spawns uttered ¡°Well, well. By Ithraelle¡¯s bountiful tits what do we have here¡± the six sneakered ¡°Grab the three, kill those two¡± he pointed at Kain and the blonde youth.

    ¡°Don¡¯t harm the girls, they¡¯re likes are worth a small ransom unspoiled¡± some of the six grunted in annoyance ¡°Have at it with the boy if you must, necromancers will still pay a heavy sac for a tortured soul¡± one of the six, with a wicked scar across the left cheek licked at his lips upon hearing so.

    Ruffians? No, too well armed and dressed for common thugs. Nichol drew his long knife, the well-oiled blade barely making a sound as the tip clipped the wooden lip of the scabbard. The crimson youth steadied his footing, lowering himself for better stability. Stepping towards the blonde, the scarred man drew his arming sword and buckler, Haven¡¯t seen that before spied the crimson youth. Turning towards his own quarry, Kain observed as a lean man stepped forward drawing his rapier and falling into a well-practiced form as he drew near. You too young to be carrying steel. Grow some hair first, the youth reminiscent the words of the old sword master. The cries of steel heralded the clash between the blonde and the kidnapper to be, Kain did not falter. The crimson youth eyed the warrior closely as the offender circled slowly around him, the sturdy solid blade of the rapier hungering for blood. Then akin to a patient viper the warrior pounced upon the youth, posture perfect, aim true. Alas to the youth he appeared sluggish. The bloodlust guided the crimson boy, he ducked low, stepping under and into the chest check. Half an inch from the nape of is his neck, Kain could almost feel the cold touch of the tapered blade. Untrained and driven by pure instinct, the youth struck at the warrior¡¯s sternum open palmed. With a crack the rapier wielder shot into the alley, the raw wet slaps and snaps letting all know of the man¡¯s faith, cloaked as he was by the alley¡¯s thick shadows. All looked upon the crimson boy, never one to let a slip up go answered, the blonde¡¯s blade found his aggressors jugular.

    ¡°Hold men¡± the leader retained his iron grip ¡°Must be Alteration, I don¡¯t think one dressed so¡­ simply can afford to maintain the state for long¡± his words calming the remaining four. ¡°A swing of the draught, we¡¯ll wait him out¡± the blonde¡¯s very existence phasing out of mind.

    The five men reached for their flasks, a keen eye on the red haired youth. Moments later, their muscled tensed and bulged, dark lines snaking around flesh and eyes a solid white only broken by pulsating veins. The empowered men stalked the youth with weapons drawn, intelligence visible with every step.

    The bastard could have done me the decency of leaving his sword before taking flight just as Kain finished the thought, the blonde youth charged an offender, only to receive the butt of a poleaxe by an unnaturally fast opponent. Breaking the swinging arm of the youth, Nichol was sent spinning yards away as the pole caught the offending arm squarely, barely clipping his chin. Nichol sprawled unconscious across the cobblestones.

    A red mist of unbound fury filled Kain, his pupils narrowing to golden slits, edged in red. The golden eyed youth kicked off the ground, cracking the cobblestones as he launched onto a charge. Matching the youth¡¯s speed two warriors skidded unnaturally along the ground, stopping shoulders to shoulder, rapiers meeting the crimson youth in a synchronized lunge. In rage, the mad boy reached to grab naked steel. And as if twisting to his will his nails darkened, growing into claws. Dark red scales blossomed, lining Kain¡¯s hands before thinning to none existence above the wrist. The swords shuddered, however both wielders and weapons stood fast. Snaking from the youth¡¯s left struck a poleaxe, the third man joining the fray. The pole¡¯s tip seeking the golden eyed boy¡¯s armpit, only to meet the youth¡¯s left hand, in all its twisted glory. The sudden stop knocked the air out of the thrusting foe.

    Gleaning the machinations of the boy, the leader sprang into motion, for the first time doubting his current course of action. The man watched as the boy pulled his subordinates in, they toppled towards the youth, unable to cope with the sudden shift in force. Before they could adjust their footing, the boy stepped forwards spinning but the once, curving right to left. Disemboweling the trio. As the dying warriors clutched at their abdomen, the leader was upon the youth, catching the boy unawares as the crimson dervish completed his twirl.

    Ignoring the longsword through his right kidney Kain leapt unto the taller man. Evening glare dancing unto the elongated canines and sharpened teeth, the boy mauled the man to death.

    Becoming incontinent, the final aggressor took in what had transpired before him in but an instant. And in a spark of ingenuity dropped his bow and arrow, scrambling for the warm embrace of the alley¡¯s shadows.

    A mighty guttural roar resounded, announcing ones dominance upon the world. Hushed voices echoed about. Whether the taste of iron upon his palate, or the three odd feet of steel jutting through him, the red haired boy returned to his senses.

    Taking stock about Kain noticed the mob. Uncaring for the blood and viscera painting him as a herald of death, the ever more crimson youth sought for his friends. A few nervous moments later, the blood caked boy laid eyes upon his quarry. The young terror made for his comrades, relief washing over him as Nichol had awaken, the blonde favoring his wounds. In sync as if upon the strings of a puppeteer, the four youths locked eyes with the golden eyed boy. Their countenance tensed, inlaid with a heavy dose of fear. Ah, forgot that I was¡­Am, skewered by a sword thought Kain, happy that his comrades worried about him so. Struggling against the urge to lay down and welcome the soft embrace of a deep slumber the youth took another step, the cacophony of shouts nothing but a gentle buzz. A sudden searing pain in his chest ripped the blood soaked boy out the induced stupor in a most violent manner.

    ¡°I said hold!¡± bellowed an older man clad in hauberk, topped with city guard livery.

    Kain looked upon the quarrel poking out, tiny streams of blood mixing with the gore coating him. The bolt barely found an inch of purchase before being constricted by the unnatural flesh of the youth. What am I, a pincushion smirked the boy. The act unnerving the middle age man, captain apparent of the dozen or so guards.

    The mob started to stir, ¡°Clear out the citizen¡± preempted the captain ¡°Now!¡± said the man grabbing a subordinate by the shoulder.

    What the hells¡ª a primal tingle urged the boy to move. Kain twisted, more throwing himself to the ground than dodging. Before the boy even hit the ground, nary a foot away, where he stood but moments before lay a heavy ballista bolt. Ears still wringing from the thunderous strike of the siege weapon the red haired boy made out filigree patterns upon the projectile through the clouds of dust. Before the boy could react, the bolt lit up, and a ten foot wide pillar of fire engulfed him. Tearing hundreds of feet to the heavens. The melting sword pulled on Kain¡¯s wound, dragging and aggravating the bleeding. Raging about the inferno soothed the youth¡¯s brow, cradling the boy like a mother¡¯s sweet embrace.

    Swaying about the soot covered youth waddled within the molten street. The carbonized residue upon him offering scant little modesty as the flames subdued, the arcane energies spent. By the ten, they want me dead. Glancing at his friends Kain saw that the guards were tending to them. Aiding the injured away from threat. From a fiend. From him. I have to run, get away and hide the youth resolved himself, his abdomen still gored but barely bleeding now. I¡¯ve got to wait this out the boy studied the demonic claws topping his digits whatever ¡®this¡¯ is.

    The ash covered boy wanted nothing more than to crawl within a silent crevice at the world¡¯s edge and sob. Treated as a repulsive scourge to be purged nearly broke the young boy. But something within him bit back, as if the very notion was its antithesis. Whatever this facet was, it refused to buckle to the world, for the world would bend before it.

    Kain trotted through the circle of solidifying cobblestone, breaking into a harried sprint as claws tasted solid ground. For it seemed the youth¡¯s transformation was deeper entrenched than he himself had realized. A spear whizzed by, aim pathetically off. It mattered not, for the impromptu javelin announced the Knight Order, the reverberations of the pure bred chargers unmistakable. The irony of such a fate not lost upon the exhibitionist youth.

    A cacophony of horns and hooves, akin to a fox hunt. If the fox stood at five feet tall and tore through solid stone as it rounded corners. Kain zigged and zagged at every turn, with all the grace of a stampeding bull. Alas at every instant the youth was met with another retinue of riders, as if the Knights were precognizant. Daring a backward glance the crimson boy spied a peculiar full plate knight. The warrior a stark black amongst the white and silver about him. A golden aura juxtaposed the dark knight. Aslena preserve me. That¡¯s a Justicar of Cipheutt shuddered the youth, never in his short lived life did Kain ever harbor the slightest sliver of desire to meet one of their ilk.

    Breaking into an open square Kain eyed a narrow crevice. They can¡¯t possibly follow me through there. As the thought came to him, all about blurred. The crimson youth struggled to hold his ground, feeling as if Ettrepha herself pulled at him, calling him to her depths.

    An otherworldly presence pressed against the youth, the square about the boy sinking a yard into the earth, succumbing to the arcane forces. Hacking up blood every fiber of muscle strained as Kain fought the losing battle for the mere right to stand. The stab wound about his mid-section bleeding anew.

    The Knights circled their prize, careful not to step within the wrathful circle. Patiently they waited.

    Within the perverse silence, only broken by a charger¡¯s occasional petulant snort and the grinding of his own teeth, Kain made out the chanting of the Justicar. Seconds turned to minutes and the boy felt his strength about to fail. Fear finally overwhelming pride the red haired boy pleaded internally, begged almost. Just as the youth was about to collapse into a sad, pathetic depraved bundle the ground beneath him shifted. A pillar of earth shot from underneath the boy, propelling him towards the crevice.

    The hunters watched dumbly as their quarry flew above head, carving walls upon the ungraceful entry of the crevice.

    Dragging himself off the grime sleeked ground, the youth slithered deeper, without a second thought as to his timely rescue. Edging deeper the shouts and screaming grew dimmer as the straight crevice split into a maze. Muck and goo sloshed sickly in unfortunate places as the less red haired youth pressed on. I should hedge my bets in the slums solved the light headed youth. Pus now bubbled about his wounds, the mindless roaming to reach the dilapidated areas leaving the boy searching for hours. The sun had long since set as the youth refused to leave the safety of the narrow maze prematurely.

    Crumbling buildings, tiny shacks, smell of piss and shit. Seems like I made it signed Kain as he gingerly snaked his way, avoiding any human contact through the slums within a forgotten corner hugging the massive hundred feet outer wall.

    After much skulking about, the sneak caught a caved-in brick abode in his periphery. Cautiously the youth turned rogue surveyed over the still high remains of the walls, confirming that it was void of life. The persistent chill and mosquito infested pools were poor hosts. This will have to do though Kain as he slid down as silently as his battered body allowed. Finding a relatively dry corner the boy sat down, curling unto a fetal position in a futile attempt to fight the cold. Exhausted, the boy cast aside all stray though opting to simply idle and possible regain a tithe of his sapped health.

    Frigid moments later, as slumber encroached upon the youth barks broke the umbral cloak. Kain jumped to his feet, cramped muscles objecting. Sodding blood hounds almost screamed the filth caked youth. Coercing the feeling back into the traitorous limbs, Kain made to scramble away. Along with a useless tingle of danger in his subconscious the youth became weightless. Then, along with the splendid abode, the boy was brutally tossed. Like a doll with cut strings the raw concussive wave saw the boy bouncing along the dirt ground. Ploughing the earth the boy ricochet through the haphazard abodes of the slums, dislocating his right shoulder and twisting the elbow before being arrested by one of the few standing buildings in a most dramatic fashion. The structure collapsed upon the tortured youth in a great cloud of dust, debris, and pieces of the doomed residents.

    And so, the mighty sorcerers announced their eminence.

    Beneath the rubble, flirting with Ettrepha, the once crimson youth convulsed. Consciousness fading. Grasping the loosened rein, primal instinct engulfed the shattered boy. Muscles rippled, pulled, tore, remade anew. Bones creaked, twisted, and broke in places.

    The hunt approached the shattered pile, heavy Knights protective of their robed charges as sorcerer staves crackled with arcane brilliance upon every step.

    A trio broke from the throng, the sorceress behind her two Knight guards. The vanguard made for the rubble. Without preamble a shadow burst from within the wreckage, knocking the warriors aside and making away with the sorceress a dozen yards away.

    There it stood, on all three, favoring its right foreleg. Wings hugged the crimson serpent. The young dragon glared defiantly upon its aggressors. Sorceress head tightly clamped within its jaws. Cruelly twisted, the corpse hung, limp and lifeless. Loosening the razor lined maw, the contorted woman fell from the seven feet tall predator. Akin to the gong of a fighting pit, the discarded sorceress sparked the assemble mass to violence.

    Quarrels and arrows twanged. Lightning streaked. Arcane bolts volleyed. The crimson worm swerved, unfurled wings making for mighty strides. An occasional projectile found its mark. Undeterred, the dragon forged on. In a dozen heartbeats the outer walls came within Kain¡¯s sight. With a heroic, wing assisted bound, the young dragon arched through the air. Claws finding the top, steadying himself, Kain made for the final leap. Then he shot forth, under no power of his own.

    Splinters and moist dirt rained down as the dragon found himself in a small crater. Craning its head the lucid youth laid slit eyes upon his escape aid. A massive steel javelin lodged above the youth¡¯s hips, goring the serpent. Spine shattered. And so, paralyzed waist down. A limp arm, arcane scars, and peppered with arrows and bolts. Run¡­run. Must escape. Keep moving¡­ The youth clawed, dragging the ravaged lump of flesh. As Kain made deeper within the woods, what little left of the crimson youth¡¯s psyche scattered to the winds.

 Chapter 2

    Dimming upon the horizon, the curtain rescinded heralding a close to the day of order. In praise to Kuualdir, if the indifferent god even cared for such things. Impeccably kept streets drank at the magnificent amber.

    More ebon than black the lustrous stallion trotted along, its charge striping the noble steed of all due splendor. Captivating those around her, all stilled about the rider. Noblewomen jealously stole glances, marveling at the sea of hazel that hung in a neat ponytail upon the rider¡¯s shoulder. Enthralled and oblivious to all else, their less than better half stared openly at the voluptuous figure implied by the riding attires. Surely Ithraelle had descended in mortal form. A cursing man broke the spell bound gentry, the street lamp sparking as it scorched the trims of his plain robes.

    Lilsya adjusted her lavender gloves, oblivious to the attention she commended. A fa?ade of calm hiding her raging mind. Five days hence. Five days since the burning. Unrelenting, unending. The lust-call was at a fever pitch, white hot, like never before. The sensation that overcame her ten years past in Dalh¡¯un paling in comparison.

    The proud stallion snorted at the guard, almost biting the man as he reached to pet the beast.

    ¡°Your Ladyship, Lord Breentlot offers a retinue as per your pleasure¡± the guard bowed, blues of the livery playing mischief with the mage lights as the day adjourned.

    ¡°Dear Sir, convey my heartfelt thanks to the good marquess. Sadly I must decline the most gracious offer¡± the rider replied succinctly ¡°Now Sir, I bid you well¡± annoyance never leaking in.

    ¡°Of course Lady Malekedahiir¡± the guard bowed once more stepping aside, his squire in the back muffling a snicker as the man managed the foreign name.

    With a tug of the reins Lilsya strode through the gates of the ceremonial wall, segregating the greater nobles from their lesser counterparts. Shaken from her contemplation the rider called upon her willpower. Arcane radiated softly, passersby nary giving the foreign noble a second glance in kind. The stallion becoming annoyed by the indifference.

    Leaving Naran¡¯s great outer walls the noble broke into a sprint. Rider and steed all but invisible within the scant little moonlight. Both pair with eyes glowing a deep blood red, piercing the darkness. The lust-call beckoned Lilsya she in turn guided the unnatural beast, hooves morphing to claws as the pair entered the dense woodlands. Swiftly traversing the treacherous grounds the foreign noble once more sank into contemplation. Ten years since she had first felt the call pulling her East. Revolted by the undesired sensation, she resisted, alas by the sixth winter she relented. However this time the burn seared to the core, refusing to be denied. And as sudden as it came, the raging torrent calmed to but a stream.

    Lilsya wrenched the reins, dread beast halting near immediately with a hateful glare to the rider and a petulant huff of a snort. The noble patted the steed, trying to appease the beast. Scanning what would surely be but a pitch black cradle to the mundane, the foreign noble gazed upon the source of her misfortunes. There it lay, bright as day to her. Lilsya blanched, her mother had warned that she would have urges. Words of advice that proved inconsequential in all her years. This however was too much, the rider¡¯s heart almost gave out. She wanted. Desired, nay needed what lay before her. Was the noble so twisted, so perverse that she would yearn for one that was not even humanoid, hells, one that is still but a hatchling.

    Deflated, the rider descended from atop her steed. The dread beast following close as the noble approached the young worm. The crimson serpent coiled within the roots of a great oak. Nary a yard from the hatchling, the foreign noble spied bolts and arrows randomly strewn about the young dragon upon the forest floor. Soft and steady the beast of legend drew breath. Its hide a marvelous sea of dark red crystals, the magnificence of which was spoiled by the repulsive intruder. The massive orichalcum capped javelin jutting defiantly above the hatchling¡¯s hips. Stepping forth Lilsya placed a gentle hand atop the serpent¡¯s snout, reins held in her left hand. Her mind slipped into the abyss, however, with practiced ease the noble held unto her sanity.

    Melting into the shadows, the trio vanished amongst the night.

    The sea lapped, dragging upon unsteady feet. Kain lowered his sight, the waves pulling at him was no mere water. A sea of blood lay before him. Wet and clammy, an eerily cold sensation about his ankle drew the youth¡¯s full attention, a decayed corpse gurgled at the youth. Unable to utter coherently words as the festering tongue hung loose, lower jaw and neck sheared, bite marks strewed the periphery of the disfiguration. Another set of hands clamped around the boys other foot. Head swiveling at a jerk, Kain looked upon the offender. The weathered robes clung unto the animated corpse, the youth heard, but did not see as the wraith screeched and moaned, head cruelly twisted. Out of sight, footsteps fell¡­

    Bolting upon all four, the crimson serpent broke into cold sweat. At least if the form could perspire. A faint dull pain pulsed in his lower back, but otherwise no worse off for wares. Kain took in the scenery, enjoying the softness of the massive bed the one too many cushion held the youth¡¯s posture as he lowered himself. Silk sheets caressed the crimson scales, the morning light dancing upon the worm. Sweet fragrance calming. Something stirred below the serpent¡¯s outspread wings. Warmer than the morning sun. Softer than the silk wrapped finery. Scent more alluring¡­

    Kain spun on a dime, claws digging into the silk bedding, countenance fixed in a fierce growl. A dumbfounded expression broke the show of might. The figure rose, curved horns crowning the overflowing silver hair. Fragile black wings unfurled, displaying the godly figure. The thin silk nightgown barely concealing the seductress snow white skin as a thin wisp of a tail stroke absentmindedly at the abused sheets. With feline grace the creature yawned, fluttering eyes betrayed ruby slits, shimmering in the dim rays of the rising sun.

    ¡®Good morning red one¡¯ a sultry voice echoed within Kain¡¯s mind. The dragon looked about the room in barely contained panic ¡®I am right here¡¯ giggled the disembodied voice. Turning towards the fragile creature, the crimson youth lock eyes with the demoness. Golden slit staring upon red. ¡®It is rude not to answer an offered greeting you know¡¯ the seductress smiled softly. The moment hung, dragon and demoness gazing upon one another. Placing a hand on her soft rose lips, shock apparent ¡®Can you truly not reply. Surely a Dame would never do her clutch such a disservice¡¯ she thought aloud, quite literally.

    The crimson boy snapped and growled in an attempt to communicate, almost breaking into a thunderous roar. Servitude to his will, the youth¡¯s bones creaked, muscle pulled. The macabre spectacle played before the demoness. Moments later the exhibitionist gasped, calming his breathing.

    ¡°My name is Kain¡± said the boy in a huff. ¡°Where am I? How did I get here? Who¡­ what are you?¡± barraged the red haired youth, oblivious to the seductress¡¯s own transformation from snow white to brick red. Reaching a feverish peak the demoness shrieked, shaming both sirens and banshees alike.

    Pulling and clutching whatever silks she could lay hands upon, the demoness scramble to restore her modesty. Quivering and ever red Lilsya pointed an outstretched arm at the red haired boy.

    ¡°You¡­you¡­you are a human¡± tearing up ¡°Put¡­put some clothes on¡± the noble buried her head within the pillows.

    Kain looked down upon his birthday suit, then to the huddled demoness. Picking up a piece of torn silk, blanked mind appearing as stoic indifference, the youth covered himself mindlessly sitting crossed legged before the crumpled foreign noble. Awaiting the seductress to calm, and for his reason to grace him once more, Kain bided.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.

    Sun rising in true the lush manor room was a spectacle to behold, bright rays bouncing upon the silk and woven gold. Open to the gardens a gentle breeze brushed past the curtains, streaming betwixt the two upon the centerfold bed. With puffed eyes Lilsya observed the once dragon.

    ¡°Viscountess Lilsya Malekedahiir of Shuize¡± the foreign noble bowed ever so shallowly ¡°And I do believe you, Sir Kain¡­¡± she paused.

    ¡°Just Kain¡± aided the boy.

    ¡°Sir Kain of Naran, are responsible for that little commotion six days pass¡±. Seeing the hesitance about the crimson youth, the horned noble recounted their meeting within the wilds leaving out the less honorable details. Her hands shown, the silk wrapped noble added ¡°And as you can see, I am no human. Demons I believe your ilk calls us¡±.

    I might as well trust her. We abominations must stick together. And so Kain detailed the events of that dreadful day, feeling as a lifetime ago.

    With a blush, Lilsya coerced the boy leave of her room. Time dragged forward as Kain picked at the makeshift towel, the piece of fabric likely worth more than any amount of coin he ever laid hands on. A room, before a room?. The crimson boy leaned forward upon the plush chair reaching for the pitcher of water atop the low table, a deep thirst overtaking him. Sipping from the pristine glass the red hair was surprised to note that the refreshment was chilled, a point the container never betrayed by touch or dew. Upon closer examination Kain perceived tiny streams of blue racing across the vessel, oblivious that the examining eye had morphed unto its golden, reptilian glory. Shifting back as boy lost interest. I have larger concerns.

    Eventually the foreign noble exited the sanctuary, still baring a faint rouge. Staring at the familiar, yet alien human woman before him Kain uttered ¡°Lady Malekedahiir, is that you¡± unsure of himself.

    ¡°Lilsya will do just fine¡± the woman fought to keep her tone steady. ¡°Now allow me to be a more accommodating host¡±.

    The finely dressed woman picked up a tiny golden bell nearby, giving but the faintest flicker. Within but a heartbeat the massive oak doors waft open, ushering a young woman whom gracefully strode before Lilsya bowing in deference. Turning towards the boy and without even a change in demeanor, greeted the boy.

    Must be the lady in waiting.

    ¡°How may I serve, my lady¡± respectfully enquired the dark blonde haired woman.

    ¡°Matild dear, would you kindly assist Sir Kain in finding more appropriate attires¡± commanded the foreign noble, a touch of pink competing with her fair complexion.

    ¡°It will be my pleasure, my Lady¡± bowed Matild before leading Kain, always three steps before the crimson youth. Never less, never more.

    Having directed the red head boy to a near similar, albeit ever so slightly smaller and less ornate room immediately to the side of Lilsya¡¯s, the lady in waiting bided Kain wait. Mere moments after leaving the boy to his own devices Matild returned, two maids carrying gentlemen finery shadowing her. With manic grins plastered the two tormentors assisted the poor youth, decency be damned. In the far corner the lady in waiting stifled a malicious grin. After the torture session the blonde woman uttered.

    ¡°My Lady shall entertain the good sir within the hour¡±, the door closing shut as the three fell creatures departed.

    Kain pulled at his doublet, breaking fast within the immaculately kept gardens. The boy¡¯s harshly learnt etiquette in keeping with the foreign noble across the table.

    As the maids cleared the tables a faint shimmering film enveloped the duo. Kain reached out in reflex, fingertips denying his sight.

    ¡°Sir Kain I have news to share¡± Lilsya sipped at the fine wine, sweet odor tingling the nose ¡°It would appear your friends did not betray your identity. Apparently, they lost sight of you when the monster appeared. Currently you are considered missing, presumed dead¡±.

    The red haired boy sank into thought, silence hanging. Awaiting, the noble woman was a picture of calm. ¡°Can I see them¡± finally motioned Kain, eliciting a nod from the viscountess.

    The lavish carriage halted. Sun at its zenith. Kain exited, offering a gentle hand to the noble woman. Last time I was here, I was chasing that bull the youth took in the intricate gardens. In short order the duo were greeted by a pair of priestesses, an honorary knight trailing behind.

    ¡°Aslena light your way lady Malekedahiir¡± beamed the taller of the priestesses ¡°Come now, high priestess Katelyn would love to meet the shepherd that found our lost little sheep¡±.

    Linking arms with the crimson boy, Lilsya followed the women of the cloth.

    Arriving before a gazebo the knight made himself scarce. The four approached the structure, a lone older priestess standing on occasion. Exchanging pleasantries Kain assisted the foreign noble before taking a sit next to her. Taking charge, Lilsya regaled of how she found the youth in a forgotten corner of Naran within an inch of his life. Of how she selflessly nursed the boy back to health.

    Finishing her tea Katelyn turned to her taller subordinate, whom was in the twilight of her youth. ¡°Vivienne, show the boy to his compatriots. They would be pleased to find him in good health¡±.

    ¡°By your will high priestess¡± Vivienne said with a soft smile, bidding Kain to follow.

    Rounding a corner on their way to the orphanage wing, the woman turned suddenly towards the red haired youth. With purpose she lunged at Kain.

    ¡°I thought you died¡± sobbed the priestess as she hung onto the boy ¡°Never worry me like that again, I can¡¯t bear to lose any of you¡±.

    Kain returned the hug, the woman was always like a mother to him. At the very least what the boy assumed a mother would be. Wiping her tears and straightening the wrinkles that had formed about her ivory robes the pair resumed their trek.

    Kain stalked the halls of the orphanage, past few days feeling as years. Vivienne stopped before the door of a private room.

    ¡°Go on now. I¡¯ll wait here until you¡¯re done¡± the priestess tone eased.

    Closing the door behind him the youth made for his friend. Will they see me as just another monster stepping out from the ether now the boy thought nervously.

    ¡°-¡ª¡± Nichol hushed the red haired youth.

    Approaching Kain the blonde whispered ¡°I saw some fishy men doing something to the room earlier. Will talk outside¡±.

    Kain nodded, the reunited posse walking out.

    Vivienne examined the group ¡°Stay within temple grounds this time¡± she warmed ¡°And try not to get in trouble, I¡¯ll send for Kain when high priestess Katelyn and lady Malekedahiir adjourns¡±.

    Relaying their understanding the five trotted towards the outside commons in silence.

    Finding a quiet spot Nichol dispelled the awkward stillness ¡°Kain¡± the blonde looked at his younger doppelganger ¡°You don¡¯t seriously think that we expected someone capable of shrugging off a thoroughbred at full charge to be a normal¡±. His lifelong friends looked expectantly at the crimson youth, alas Kain had no response. Nichol signed ¡°Granted the manicure was a bit much¡± the blonde failing at the joke.

    Sitting upon the well-trimmed grass, Kain urged the four do in kind. Over the next two odd hours the little posse rekindled some of their lost spirit as the crimson boy recounted past events. Surely time would heal the strained friendship.

    Kain stood before the high priestess within her private study. Placing down the enchanted quill, the old woman looked the youth in the eyes.

    ¡°Aslena seemed to have finally answered my prayers¡± said Katelyn ¡°The Dalh¡¯un wench is currently arguing custody with Doran¡±.

    Through gritted teeth, Kain uttered ¡°What of my say in any of this¡±.

    The woman shot the boy a piercing glance ¡°Unimportant¡±, lowering her head the priestess returned her attention to the documents before her ¡°Pack your belongings and leave¡±.

    Frustrated, the crimson youth slammed the door behind him. Rippling across the surface the enchantments shimmered before failing. Cracks spread about the frame, the door itself all but rend asunder.

    Marble floors shook as the crimson youth stamped through the knight halls. The unarmored warriors favoring their Godlike flasks, primed to subdue the walking calamity. About to burst through the Baron¡¯s quarters a voiced intruded the boy¡¯s mind ¡®Calm now red one¡¯. Catching a mural of the goddess of light Kain¡¯s blood grew hotter. The hypocrisy palpable. ¡®Enter, but be still. I shall explain later¡¯. Forcefully suppressing his ire the youth entered after a polite knock. Looking down at the foreign noble, the hulk barely acknowledged the youth¡¯s intrusion.

    Lilsya placed a hand onto a small stack of scrolls, wax seals undamaged ¡°With all due respect Sir Grosslow, your peers and betters have conceded to my offer¡±. ¡°Now good Sir, I believe I shall retrieve my ward and be on my way¡± added Lilsya.

    Veins bulging and nostrils flaring the man reached for his desk. Rolling the parchment Doran pressed his insignia upon the hot wax. ¡®Follow red one¡¯ Lilsya strode out, Kain fuming at her heels.

 Chapter 3

    Aroma of lamp oil waned as the carriage hasted towards the city center, steady mage lights replacing flickering flames. Kain tapped his foot in frustration, the wooden floor groaning at the mistreatment. Sighing, the noble wrested her willpower ushering arcane that tinged the air. A distorted bubble surrounding and isolating the pair, veiling them from any a would be eavesdropper.

    ¡°Sir Ka¡ª¡±

    ¡°I thought it was red one¡± the youth interrupted ¡°You owe me an explanation¡± added the boy.

    With a deep inhale Lilsya said ¡°Kain, there is a force that draws me to you. Unnatural and undeniable. I¡ª¡±.

    ¡°You tore me from my home! My friends! My family! Because something draws you to me?¡± the red hair interjected again ¡°Demons or humans, you noble sons of bitches are all the same!¡± Kain dropped the crushed silver cup ¡°I will not be your plaything!¡±

    With a swipe the carriage door buckled outwards ¡°Fuck you, fuck the temple, fuck this city!¡±

    Horses neighed in complaint as the driver pulled to a halt. Without another word the crimson youth left Lilsya, never looking back as he meandered aimlessly.

    Final bells tolled, declaring the days end. Worst of his outburst cowed Kain paced the merchant districts. Smell of roasting beef tantalized the boy as he passed an inn. This no time to be a glutton the youth chastised himself. Out his periphery Kain caught his quarry. Approaching the animated group Kain gestured the well-dressed man whom turned away from his stocks. The merchant patted his comb over, appraising the red hair before him.

    ¡°Good evening sir¡± Kain greeted ¡°I wish to offer my services¡±.

    Pulling out a pipe from his coat the man responded ¡°Return to your house, I don¡¯t babysit runaway nobles¡± remarking the crimson youth¡¯s finery.

    Anticipating the scenario Kain outstretched his arm, iron ball grasped. Almost got caught prying this off that weird gate, had better be worth it. With ease the boy crushed the solid metal ball, presenting the contorted sphere for examination ¡°I am sure I can be of use Sir¡±.

    ¡°Meals and a dry bed. You get payed per merit¡± the merchant threw the scrap iron back ¡°Anyone comes looking for you, it¡¯s the boot¡±.

    Waking atop the familiarity of a cot once more, Kain noticed a sack besides him. Sitting up within the dark room, the boy thought to his new state of being. The red hair willed his eyes pierce the umbral veil, gold slits glowing soon thereafter. Desensitized by his inhumanity Kain appreciated the room clear as day, muted as the colors were. A note upon the sac read;

    Sir Kain. Impossible as it may be to repair the damages done, it is with hope that the attached may ease the transition. Our paths shall not cross again if such is undesirous. Sincerely.

    Tempted as he was to throw away the parting gift, the youth reconsidered. Practicality winning over childish tantrums.

    Drawing the longsword strapped to the bag Kain tested the blade. Attempting a conservative bend the weapon remained unaffected, mocking him. Right hand careful of the sharp edges the crimson youth strained. For all his might the weapon bent but ever so slightly, bouncing back as the youth unhanded it. Is this made of adamantine? Thumbing through the large sack Kain found a multitude of clothes and an assortment of coin purses. Savior, tyrant and now benefactor the foreign noble an amalgam of contradictions. First bell rang, dawn breaking as the youth¡¯s bunk mates stirred. Kain willed the draconic aspects away and changed into more appropriate travel wares.

    Breaking in the new boots, Kain dawdled behind the workers. This is for the better, nothing good will come of me staying the boy thought of his friends. Reminiscing, the youth almost lost his guides. The shear amount of foot traffic so early was bewildering. Thinking him a noble the employees had no inclination in making small talk with the red hair. Kain conceded to simply follow, the youth in no rush to clear the misunderstanding.

    Exiting the main gates the workers made for their colleagues, Kain opted to approach the caravan leader.

    ¡°Good morning to you Sir Thomas¡± greeted the boy.

    Turning towards Kain the elder man wrinkled, ¡°I¡¯m no sir¡± Thomas beckoned for his guard captain. ¡°Was hoping sleeping with the commoners would scare you off¡± the armored guard stopped several paces away, placing on his helmet. ¡°But here you are, carrying a sword to boot.¡± The captain approached once again, ¡°Listen now, I am no peasant to entertain a noble brat¡± the old man finished.

    Laying a hand atop Kain¡¯s left shoulder the armored man eyed the younger boy menacingly through his raised visor. Grabbing the offending wrist Kain lifted the guard, casually tossing the captain over the shoulder. Stunning the man upon the packed ground. Kain¡¯s right hand having never left the bag straps.

    All in sight stopped to gawk at the commotion. The crimson youth turned to the merchant ¡°Last night was no trick¡±, Kain aided the armored man in standing ¡°I believe renegotiations are in order¡±.

    Deducing no further violence was afoot the surroundings returned to their tasks, schedules needing to be met. Thomas passed by Kain ¡°Follow me, Sir¡­¡± the merchant frowned at the oversight.

    Scratching the loose soil out his hair the youth offered ¡°Kain, just Kain¡±.

    Raising a brow, the merchant drew his own conclusions. ¡°Kain it is then¡± the two stopped before an extravagant wagon. Easily distinct from the near two dozen, each harnessed to four impressive draft horses. Disappearing within the canvas flaps muffled conversation could be heard beyond the threshold. Moments later the elder emerged, throwing a pouch towards the crimson youth. ¡°Advance payment for three¡± uttered the merchant ¡°Now, how old are you?¡±.

    ¡°Fourteen Si¡­¡± ¡°Fourteen years old, Thomas¡± Kain corrected after the merchant¡¯s glare.

    Kain adjusted the stirrups for the tenth time, having ridden but a handful of occasions through the years to learn the art. Catching up to the five leading riders the boy eased his pace. Ignoring their new brother at arms the scouting party kept to themselves. Are they always so cold pondered the crimson boy. Putting away his book a robed man separated from the group, approaching Kain.

    ¡°Hey there¡± the light fabrics revealing a life of comfort ¡°Don¡¯t mind them. Mercenaries are not very amiable to being payed less than another¡±.

    ¡°Oi! Pyromancer! Tree in the road¡± pointed a rider in the lead, the fallen tree barely an impedance to travel.

    ¡°And you boy, tag along¡± added another.

    Standing before the tree Kain regarded the pyromancer ¡°I could just drag it out the way¡±.

    Astonished ¡°So the rumors are true¡± the young adult replied, unfazed by the breeze ¡°However, I should practice¡±. Spreading both arms the man fell into a trance. With a snap the tree burst alight, fire never spreading beyond bounds.

    Bored of watching the unmoving man Kain removed a glove. Rolling up a sleeve, the youth retrieved an apple.

    The pyromancer tracked Kain, his eyes aflame, black hair blowing wildly from tapping the arcane. Shocked by what transpired the fire hurler momentary lost control.

    Kain rotated the fruit, ensuring an even bake.

    Lump of wood reduced to ash the lean man dropped upon his haunches. Removing the sweat slicked hair from his brow the fatigued pyromancer addressed the youth. ¡°So¡± the man panted ¡°What school do you practice¡±.

    Handing the man a water skin Kain replied ¡°School? Do you mean the arcane schools?¡±

    Pausing from quenching his thirst the robbed man nodded, too tired for words. ¡°I get that a lot. But no, I bend no arcane powers¡± said Kain, helping his charge.

    ¡°Oh. We should see Master Khaati then¡± replied the man, handing back the near empty water skin ¡°Names Elwin¡±.

    Returning from the uneventful debriefing the crimson youth followed Elwin. Accompanying the pyromancer through the pitched tent, Kain steadied the overlong sword at his waist. Compelling the lazy man onwards, the duo arrived. Fae creatures danced within the campfire, making merry along a non-existing tune. Elwin approached the seated bronze woman, retelling Kain¡¯s feats as she acknowledged them. The fire creatures faded as the auburn-haired woman addressed Kain.

    ¡°So, my bumbling apprentice thinks he can identify or kin¡±. Elwin found an interesting pebble in need of intense scrutiny. ¡°Come. Sit¡± the woman gestured besides her.

    The crimson youth sat upon the low stool, sweet smell of wood hanging to the woman. Is she from the Empire pondered the boy.

    Elwin¡¯s master placed a hand atop Kain¡¯s forearm ¡°Now, concentrate. Clear your mind of all distraction¡± accent lacing every word but ever so slightly ¡°Picture a tongue of fire. Now solidify the image and will it into being¡±.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    Struggling harder than ever before, his distraught chase paling in comparison, the youth did as told. Seconds turned to minutes, alas, to no avail. The apprentice burst into laughter, breaking the awkward silence.

    ¡°Bloody mundanes¡± mumbled the woman ¡°You indeed have the talent. However it will take months, years if you¡¯re incompetent¡± turning towards the still laughing Elwin ¡°Of study before performing even the simplest of cantrips¡± she finished.

    A horn blew, alarming the hosts to danger. Urging her apprentice to start dinner preparation the master pyromancer turned to Kain ¡°Go do your job, Elwin can share his novice scripts later¡±.

    Joining the arguing throng, the seventeen mercenaries hushed at the youth¡¯s approach.

    ¡°Wonder boy here can go¡± the only female warrior said, eliciting barely muffled chuckles.

    In no mood to entertain the farce, the red haired signed ¡°What would you have me do¡±.

    Grinning ¡°Griffin been spotted a mile off, Thomas wants it dead¡± the buff woman replied.

    Kain broke into a half sprint, eager to prove himself. Scant moonlight being of little consequence to draconic eyes.

    The creature picked at its mangled wing, fussing over the shredded feathers. Sensing the intruder the avian predator rose. Nine feet of muscle rippled before the five feet boy. Kain drew his sword, circling the atrocity slowly. Silver blade caught the moonlight as opposing sides tensed. The griffin pounced, Kain imitated a perceived stance, right foot forward with the sword pointing backwards below his waist. Ready to meet steel with claw. Beast landed upon the boy, claws outstretched. The crimson youth stepped to the right dodging a set of twisted blades, simultaneously slashing from lower left to his right in an upward arc. Clashing with the beast¡¯s other talon the force knocked it aside in a cloud of severed digits. Whistling, the sword twirled into the night as Kain lost his grip swinging the weapon like a club. Dumbfounded by his idiocy the boy failed to notice the charging avian. Dirt flew about, monster and griffin wrestling under the stars. Sharp beaks dug into the youth¡¯s palms, rune gloves preventing laceration. Kain¡¯s fingers drilled into the skull, placing a foot upon the griffin¡¯s sternum, Kain heaved. Much shrieking followed, popping of bones preluding a shower of blood.

    Kain dragged himself from beneath the headless half-breed, drenched in gore. Hearing footsteps into the distances, golden slit receded, world dimming in their absence. The very crimson youth found his sword after a short search, unblemished.

    ¡°Fuck me sideways, little tyke actually did it¡± pocked a man unto the corpse, twisting the halberd quizzically.

    Approaching the red youth, the woman twirled her flowing braids ¡°Uhm¡­I¡­uhm¡± refusing to meet eyes with boy ¡°That wasn¡¯t¡­¡± she paused. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡± stammered the bear before storming off, magnificent rump pleasingly drawing Kain¡¯s sight.

    ¡°Aye, one hell of an ass. Right boy¡± another snickered, a thrown helmet cracking against the smug jester¡¯s nose but an instance after. Blushing fiercely the tall woman recovered from the throw, stomping away even faster.

    Snapping his broken nose back into place with a grunt the man picked up the makeshift projectile, cursing the fates to be wearing a cervelliere. With a rustle of mail the prankster waddled to Kain ¡°Pretty sure you stink¡± wheezed the injured man ¡°By the ten boy, you¡¯re as hot headed as they come¡±. The man adjusted his oversized crossbow ¡°Look here, Izzy went pale as a corpse walker after you ran off. Thought she sent you to an early grave¡±. Third moon graced the skies ¡°Boy can you even hear me?¡± questioned the jester.

    Battle frenzy subsided, Kain reached for the burning sensation along his right cheek. What greeted the young mercenary was a bone deep gash, from a snip above the lip, to a missing ear.

    Cleaned up and wearing a new set of clothes, Kain sat at the campfire with nothing but a dry bandage covering his wounds. The train alchemist having left in an unbridled fury as all of his prized salves were violently rejected by the youth¡¯s wounds. Finding Kain wandering camp the apprentice pyromancer invited the one eared youth to some leftovers.

    ¡°Damn, the bird did a number on you¡± Elwin reheated the stew with arcane might ¡°Looks like it¡¯s going to leave a nasty scar¡±.

    Kain accepted the warm meal ¡°Doubtful. Never had a wound I could not sleep off¡± the youth ate.

    ¡°You expect the ear, to just regrow. Without a healer or alchemist¡± asked the apprentice, signing at Kain¡¯s nod. ¡°You my friend, are either thick or insane¡±.

    Morning rays found the caravan train ready to depart, Kain joining the scout party again ¡°Do you always accompany the scouts?¡±.

    ¡°Pretty much, Master Khaati insists that¡­¡± Elwin paused as he turned towards the youth ¡°The hells¡±, drawing alarming close to the red hair ¡°Am I still dreaming¡±.

    ¡°Hope not¡± remarked the crimson youth. Ice broken, the five scouts and pyromancer eased into their task.

    Dusk rays preluded the train¡¯s arrival, for ahead the twenty one wagons lay their first stop. Shifting in his saddle Kain admired the walled town of Adron, copper of surrounding distilleries distinct within the waning light. Trotting up to the disbanding party, the barrel chested jester hailed Kain.

    ¡°Me boy, Izzy wants to pay for your stay tonight. Apology and all¡±. His stature rendered moot against the giantess skulking a few yards behind.

    ¡°I do not hold her in contempt, but if it shall ease her mind it will be my pleasure¡± replied Kain.

    Jokester departing the apprentice remarked ¡°In that getup and the way you talk, you¡¯ll never pass as a commoner¡±, earning a shrug from the red hair. Patting his horse Elwin added ¡°Its high time you start learning the arcane arts, being a novice sucks, trust me¡± the young man shook his head, trying to allay past memories ¡°How are you with numbers?¡±.

    ¡°I can manage¡± replied the crimson youth.

    Stroking his stubble in thought ¡°We should start with calculus then¡± the pyromancer added.

    Begrudgingly leaving his sword with the town guards, the crimson youth stared accusingly upon his guide of a jester.

    ¡°Hahaha. Don¡¯t be looking at me like that¡± the large man mockingly stroked his equally large crossbow ¡°Only an ass of a mercenary would fail to join a guild¡±.

    The pair entered a quaint inn, smell of liquor greeting them in full force. Snaking around the patrons the duo arrived to their table. A boulder within the stream, all about avoided the dreaded abode, for a giantess had claim of the domain and mortals knew to fear their betters. Forging for blighted lands the pair faced the fiend before them. Kain sat before the woman as the jester took a sit beside her. An awkward silence prevailed. With a sigh the jokester called for a passing serving woman.

    ¡°What do you drink boy¡±.

    ¡°I do not¡± replied the red hair.

    ¡°I aren¡¯t having that¡±.

    Many a round later the woman turned to Kain ¡°What the hells were you thinking¡±, taking another swing ¡°Who the fuck fights a griffin alone¡± she added.

    The crimson youth bade for a refill, call of liquor beckoning the boy ¡°Was tired of being mocked¡±, another gulp soothed, releasing pent up stress.

    ¡°Still can¡¯t swing a sword for shit¡± slurred the woman, earning a deprecatory smirk from the youth. ¡°I can help. I¡¯m an accredited swords master¡± she added quickly.

    ¡°Maybe you can help me with my sword¡± intruded the jester.

    The crack of knuckle on bone reverberated through the raucous room. ¡°Rob!¡± the woman shouted.

    Spitting out blood ¡°Aye, like my woman feisty¡± added the man. Moving smoothly for a drunk, Rob threw the taller woman over his shoulder bounding up the stairs within moments.

    Kain gazed absentmindedly at the deserted table, nursing his flask. Having nothing better to do the youth stacked a few silvers upon the table, determined to feed the new vice. Three more silvers hushed the serving girl, whom brought a bottle of their finest.

    The crimson youth awoke to a broom upside the head, knocking over half a dozen bottles as he come out the stupor. Mind hazed Kain turned to the inn keep.

    ¡°Bar¡¯s closed, go sleep upstairs¡±.

    Standing with much difficulty the red hair stepped over passed out patrons strewn around his table. Clearly due to violence and not inebriation. The fuck happen here thought Kain, tripping upon the stairs going to his room.

    Bony appendages wrapped around Kain, rotting entrails slithering upon the youth. The walking corpse shook the boy, pushing him within the quagmire of blood. With a start, Kain heaved against the fiend.

    A laughing giantess within the doorway caught Kain¡¯s attention along a groaning man upon the floor shortly thereafter.

    ¡°¡¯Wake up the boy Rob dear¡¯¡± favoring the re-fractured nose ¡°¡¯Hurry now dear¡¯¡± Rob stood ¡°Y.S.A.B.E.L¡± glaring at the woman.

    Retrieving his longsword the red hair joined along the departing caravan train. Forgoing the scouting party Kain made his way towards a personnel wagon. Sitting across the master pyromancer Kain studied Elwin¡¯s notes, irritated by the confusing scribblings.

    Scrunching her nose ¡°By the All Father, you smell to the high heavens¡±, the pyromancer moved besides the coach.

    As the caravan train pitched up for the night Kain stood before the giantess, training longswords in hand. The red haired youth inched towards Ysabel. Left foot landing, Kain entered the seven footer¡¯s ridiculous range. Breaking into action Ysabel moved from the middle guard, aiming for a draw cut upon the left carotid artery. Battle frenzy descended upon the youth. Earth cracked beneath Kain¡¯s feet as the youth dashed to his left, dodging the sluggish blade with room to spare. Quickly the boy arrested his forward momentum, left hand upon the ground Kain twisted and stabbed for Ysabel¡¯s ribs. And before the giantess¡¯s motion even ran its course the youth¡¯s dull blade clinked gently against her breastplate.

    Observing the boy, Ysabel looked in disgust at the unsteady posture. Hammer grip lunge almost being too much to stomach.

    ¡°Stand¡± commanded the woman, ¡°Your reaction and speed are inhuman¡± she added. An indulgent smile threatened to overcome Kain, ¡°But every single thing you do with the sword is wrong¡± the youth¡¯s haughtiness deflated. Ysabel traced the multitude of scratches along her dull sword ¡°I can guide you through the proper forms¡­¡±

    Following the boy¡¯s distracted sight Ysabel caught the jester mid motion. Rob¡¯s indecent thrusting gestures drawing laughter from the surrounding mercenaries.

    The prankster dived, longsword flying overhead as the man hit the ground. Turning back to Kain the woman started her lectures, a slight blush the only evidence of what transpired.

    Shouting brought a premature end to the tutelage, little over an hour of the planned two. Seeing the youth about to dash towards the disturbance, Ysabel stepped before Kain.

    ¡°Easy now¡± the giantess twirled a blonde braid ¡°Let the guards handle it. We swords for hire are only appreciated on the field¡±. Taking the crimson youth¡¯s silence as acknowledgement, ¡°Enough talking, let¡¯s put that obscene stamina to good use¡± Ysabel shot Rob a glare before the jester could remark.

    A thin film of amber upon the horizon announced dawn, scarce rays nary breaking the dark. The crimson youth toweled off By the ten, I miss a warm bath, wearing nothing but a pair of velvet trousers, his bare torso refused a tan. Fair skin encasing a built form, lack of definition betraying the youth¡¯s real age. Catching the master pyromancer topless silhouette at the corners of his eyes, Kain willed the draconic aspects. As his eyes transformed unto their golden eminence a warning tingle washed upon the youth. Feeling as an eternity, visibility gradually increased along with the subconscious alarm. Moments before the golden slits dispelled the shadows, claws constricted the boy, lacerating exposed flesh. Air rushed as the world turned upside down, and Kain saw the caravans with a newfound perspective.

    Acknowledging the griffin abductor exploding volleys assaulted the beast, little care for the precious cargo. The avian fiend bobbed and weaved, avoiding the fiery explosions. Finding his wits Kain gripped the claws about himself, crimson scales adorning his hands. Another tinge of danger drew the youth, responding Kain faced the source. Besides the largest tent blue energies swirled, heavy in arcane. With haste Kain tore off the restraints. Then it came, a geyser of blue, followed by the searing white of pure agony. Beast disintegrating before him the red hair battled to retain consciousness. A battle lost.

 Chapter 4

    Red engulfed the world, teeth tore flesh, and tongue licked bones. The corpse walkers gnawed at the youth, unable to retaliate. In horror Kain made to scream, alas, not a sound escaped. The youth gargled, chocking upon his own blood. Wispy hair stroked the crimson boy, and turning towards the sensation Kain saw. Head twisted, the undead chewed upon Kain¡¯s freshly torn tongue. Turning, back of her head now towards Kain, the animated corpse reached for the boy¡¯s cheek. Gently she caressed Kain, emaciated hands skimmed the youth as others ate at his flesh.

    Kain awoke to wolves tugging at him. At the very least the boy assumed they were so, for he could neither hear, nor see. Canines bit and pulled, the unrelenting flesh of the hairless youth holding fast. An overzealous predator sheared its prized fangs upon the infernal meal to be. Pain and anger aswirl, a dry cough preluded a thunderous roar from Kain. Retreating with tails between their legs the pack ran, survival instinct superseding hunger.

    Upon wobbly feet the boy stood. Snow stung his flesh, earning distraught spasms from the exposed muscles. Trembling, Kain thought to his predicament and once again rage boiled. Am I nothing to these people. Does my life mean nothing to these ¡®humans¡¯. Heat built within his chest, and reaching a crescendo the youth roared once more. Baring hate and malice at the forefront a torrent of flames shoot forth, a torrent which changed unto a surge from the young fire breather.

    Liquid fire rolled across the small valley, in its wake snow melted, pines rendered to ash within moments. The very ground melted, only to vaporize within the dragon fire. Outburst wilted an intense fatigue overcame Kain, numb and heavy his body craved slumber. Within the picture of hell and brimstone, the youth collapsed.

    Rumblings of hunger woke the boy. Newly grown eyes shunning the sensation Kain studied the metamorphosed valley, waves upon waves of smooth stone spread before him, a sea of swirling colors frozen in time. The exhibitionist youth recoiled in horror, repulsed by the destruction he wrought. Shuffling aimlessly, bedtime stories of winged horrors descending from the heavens and razzing entire towns come to mind.

    A cold wet sensation broke the daydream. It occurred to the youth that at some point he had reached a lake, speckles of ice afloat. Taking in his reflection curiosity came to the forefront. Holding onto his human form, Kain willed the draconic aspects. The bald youth watched as red scales grew, eyes slitting as his nose rescinded. Looking back at him, a red reptilian man graced the water¡¯s surface.

    With another thought the boy returned to his human appearance. Now holding fast onto the human aspects, Kain slowly altered into his full draconic form. An abomination greeted the youth, a dragon wrapped into soft human skin. Completely void of scales, and a maw filled with molars and incisors was as comical as it was repulsive. Quickly the youth called forth the draconic aspects. A hybrid form would be useful, thought Kain, anger momentary suppressed. Bone and muscle reformed time and time again. Satisfied, Kain gazed at his reflection. A five feet bipedal humanoid with a dragon¡¯s head, wings, and a tail all lined with shades of crimson rippled across the water surface. Feeling the arcane cradling his unfurled wings, a reckless impulse rang through the boy. With a synchronized leap and flap of the wings, Kain shot fifty feet upwards. As the youth attempted to stabilize himself, the chaotic flailing of his seven extremities brought Kain crashing within the accursed lake.

    Swimming to the banks Kain noted that the arcane about his wings had substantially diminished. A futile flap of the appendages proved his worries. Finding a pine tree to lean against, the crimson youth waited. Arcane energies restored as Kain contemplated his growing hunger and prevailing indecency. As shadows shifted with the sun, Kain stilled, nary drawing a breath as lethargy set in.

    Noon sun at its peak, a doe encroached unto the lake, oblivious to the snow covered youth a mere dozen yards afar. Ice flakes and splinters flew as Kain pounced towards the deer, meeting his quarry in but an instance. The doe¡¯s rib cage gave way to the collision, bone fragments piercing organs that went uncrushed. Frothing, the animal convulsed in agony. A swing of the tail caved in the deer¡¯s cranium, as he put the animal out of its misery.

    Sloppily the youth carved out a cut a meat, and facing away from his first hunt Kain brought the bloody lump before his snout. Recalling the sensation flame built within his breast. Moving upwards a tiny tongue of flame escaped Kain¡¯s maw. Meeting the venison even the miniscule jet of dragon fire reduced the meat to ash. Signing at the aftermath Kain returned to his prey. Crouching besides the cadaver razor jaws took a tentative bite. A rush of primal pleasure flooded the youth, and over the next half hour Kain gorged himself.

    Washing out his now redder scales, the draconic boy pondered his exposed jewels. Delight over the succulent taste of fresh, raw meat joining the ever growing queue of oddness. Now that I think about it, I never did try uncooked meat. Returning to the gored and partially eaten deer Kain spied gleaming eyes of predators within the giant pines, too frightened to test the crimson fiend. Attempting to skin the animal, a spurt of blood reminded Kain of the idiocy of cleaning up before the task.

    Half a dozen failed attempts at crafting a decent attire, the youth eventually relented. Conceding to a crudely constructed loincloth and hoping that the sodding thing would not rot before he could figure out how to cure the hide. Lacking the means and knowhow of preserving venison, or any type of meat, the youth steeled himself and departed. Squashing the bubbling emotions of abandonment Kain followed the lake as it flowed downstream, hoping that the old adage held true.

    Hours upon hours found Kain meandering alongside the river, draining the icy lake as it picked up speed. At every opportune instances the crimson youth would unfurl the webbed appendages, attempting a subdued glide besides the banks. More often than not crashing down as he failed at a maneuver.

    As the sun hung low Kain halted before an obstruction. The river turned into a vicious rapid as the entire terrain dropped near three hundred feet. Sheer cliff face of impossibly jagged rocks. Gazing across the descent Kain sat before the water torrents, waiting as his wings restored its arcane energies. Now that I think about it, didn¡¯t the griffins also have these things hanging on their wings the youth thought, diverting all attention away from the traitorous caravan train.

    Favoring caution the youth took a running lead, leaping across the slope. Reaching the apex of the jump Kain spread his wings, entering a downward glide as the tail counterbalanced his bulk. Turbulent air currents threaten to rip the crimson youth from the sky. Resisting the urge to flap against the opposing forces Kain stayed his simple maneuver.

    Reaching the slightly less snowy grounds Kain left the banks. Finding a collapsed giant of a pine within sight of the reformed river, he approached a rough alcove bound by the fell tree. Trusting in the strength of his scales Kain curled beneath his wings, drifting asleep as darkness drew closer.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

    Irritation awoke the youth before morning rays. Rotting hide discarded Kain eased into the chilly waters, clawed feet digging unto the bedrock, holding fast against the river¡¯s pull as draconic eyes pierced the dark. Spotting a particular large trout the crimson boy charged for the nearby fish. Relinquishing his footing the currents dragged Kain within its depths. Panicking, the youth drew a breath of water. Instead of chocking and drowning Kain exhaled the fluid, alien as the sensation was no harm befell the boy. A few experimental inhales later the youth returned his attention to the apparent drowning. Task made easier with the new limbs, Kain swam towards the water¡¯s edge. Exiting, the lingering cold vexed, however it failed to leech upon the youth¡¯s core.

    Rapids and fallen tree well out of sight the scaled youth realized how far he strayed. By the ten, I should stop being so reckless. Wings tightly wrapped about his person, Kain resumed his trek. The two visible moons fading as dawn encroached.

    Dark clouds rolled above head as Kain held a dead rabbit. Looking back the crimson youth smirked self loathingly at the collateral damage caused to catch a simple prey. Raw meat ingested Kain resumed his travels, perpetual overcast muddling the youth¡¯s sense of time.

    As the monotonous days came and went the snow thinned, surrounding vegetation becoming greener as the temperature rose. His mind numbed by the isolation, Kain nearly shouted in joy as he spotted a tiny hamlet within the distance. Deciding to maintain the advantages allowed by his current form, Kain hugged the shadows of the tree line as he made for the settlement.

    A quarter mile from the buildings Kain stopped. The eerie silence and lack of activity so early mid noon unnerving. Focusing intensely at the hamlet, dark tendrils of arcane stood out against the faint vibrancies of background energies. Aslena preserve me, is that a monster nest. Backing away from the hamlet a sweet melody intruded Kain¡¯s mind. The arcane song barely hooked upon his mind, alas, the youth¡¯s desire for human contact supplemented what strength the unnatural hymn lacked.

    Enchanted, Kain walked through the diminutive village. Dried corpses littered the dilapidated buildings, arrows and scorch marks strewing the rooftops. Disembodied limbs sticked out from the packed dirt as nature fought to reclaim her propriety. Patched shirt clinging unto pitchfork wielders against mail clad cadavers clenching forged steel painted the picture of what had transpired. Not a single living soul strode the streets.

    At the epicenter of macabre scene a distortion rippled, repugnant arcane dripping from the cracks. Striding pass the anomaly Kain arrived at the river banks. Mere yards within the shallow depths lay the source of the magical song. A young fair maiden, eyes aquiver, rosy lips graced the divine hymn. Bare of any clothing the angel transitioned into an aquatic form below the waist. The siren slithered towards the charmed youth, coiling around Kain. Still singing, the divine creature nuzzled Kain¡¯s snout. As he relaxed the siren¡¯s upper body transformed into a slimy, scaled monstrosity. Massive fangs lined the bulbous countenance of the siren. His trance broken by the sudden transformation Kain grabbed the beast¡¯s neck moments before she could bite unto him. Crushing the thinly scaled flesh and bone with ease, a screeching death howl escaped the creature.

    In mournful symphony dozens of sirens broke through the water¡¯s surface. River¡¯s edge lapping against his clawed feet, the crimson youth unfurled his wings to escape. Before Kain could take to the sky, three scaled beasts was upon him. Teeth and sharpened nails scratched at the red scales. Kain wrapped his tail about an offender, constricted the fiend to death. Grabbing the tails of the fleeing harassers Kain lifted them up, before slamming the two monsters unto one another. Wet cracks reverberating as the spawns all but fused together, returning to Udioneph.

    A warning tingle ran across the youth¡¯s spine. Spinning about, clawed hands outstretched, the sharp blades tore through soft flesh as a rusted sword skidded across Kain¡¯s naturally armored chest. Watching the decapitated head of a delicate woman roll across the moist banks Kain looked to his bloody hand in horror. Shaking, the blank minded boy fell to his knees.

    Stopping in their tracks, the remaining sirens shared a knowing look. Shifting to their tender, fair human appearance, they slowly advanced towards Kain. Alluring monsters inches from him, bloodshot eyes turned to the foes. Clawed hands swung towards the closest beast. A trickle of blood flowed down the maiden¡¯s cheek, trembling herald of death stopped short of causing real damage. Finding any available purchase, the creatures pulled Kain within the water¡¯s pits. Images of reaped souls overwhelming the youth¡¯s psyche.

    Firmly but with care, the creatures dragged Kain unto the abyss. Hundreds of sirens emerged from a half mile deep bowl carved out the river bed. Spiraling about their mark, the massive school of monsters obstructed the sun¡¯s rays. The multitude sung their dread melody, pushing against the crimson youth¡¯s mind, set upon destroying all reason. Closing his eyes Kain felt the pit of his stomach drop. Smothering the guilt a tear escaped as Kain built the dragon fire.

    The depths shuddered, a fifty feet torrent of flames bursting from the crimson maw. Incinerating all within its path. Surrounding body of water vaporized instantly, sending Kain and the deathly boiled monsters to the bowl¡¯s evacuated bottom. Fire breathing interrupted the boy slammed to the silt layered bed, liquid fire falling atop him in short order. Before Kain regained his bearing, the ground rumbled as the river violently refilled the void. The world tumbled head over heel as the roiling currents lashed Kain about, occasionally using the crimson youth as a chisel in decorating the siren¡¯s domain.

    Climbing out Kain forced his laden body to dry land, fatigue seeping within every fiber of his being. Glancing towards the calm water surface the mangled, seared cadavers brought back memories of burning human flesh. A nauseous sensation hit the boy, divesting him of past meals. Dry heaving, Kain regained his footing once more, suppressing any emotional turmoil.

    Returning to the hamlet Kain rummaged through the derelict abodes. Lacking the intestinal fortitude to loot corpses, the boy found a few pairs of relatively intact clothes in size. Unwilling to sacrifice the few adequate trousers, Kain fashioned a loincloth out of soft tanned leather.

    Shouldering the heavily worn rucksack Kain forced his ever numbing limbs into motion, eager to leave the accursed settlement. Two golds, forty eight silvers, and a few hundred coppers. It¡¯ll do for a while struggled the youth to stay awake. Trudging a dozen miles downriver the crimson youth collapsed mid stride, Just a short nap¡­

    Another lonesome morning greeted the youth. Brown leaves dancing upon the winds formally lifting the veil upon autumn. Hefting himself out the moist dirt, Kain picked at the small pebbles lodged between an odd scale or two. The boy set aside his looted rucksack, opting for another wash in the open. Wild living becoming an ever growing occurrence. Turbulent emotions crept as Kain settled into the mundane act. Squashing the budding distress the crimson youth redirected his focus to the road ahead, reminding himself of winter¡¯s eventual assault.

    Starlight hid behind thick clouds as Kain hauled a slain boar towards the river. Golden eyes shone as the youth backtracked through the defaced and collapsed trees, underbrush utterly uprooted. The silent hunter washed his quarry. With all knives within the hamlet rusted to oblivion Kain gutted the boar with his claws. Wolfing down as much raw meat as possible, the crimson youth pondered whether or not to use what precious little salt pilfered in preserving some meat. Having never struggled to acquire food since the unfortunate march, Kain decided to save the rare resource. Distancing himself from the carcass the boy found a dry stretch of grass, slumbering within the familiar folds of his wings.

 Chapter 5

    Winds howled, freezing snow tearing at the faded cloak, eager to ravage the soft flesh beneath. Pulling his hood low the youth squinted against the hail. Days had passed since the red haired boy last ate, winters frigid grasp having sent any prospective prey into slumber. A silhouette stood against the distance. Focusing, Kain¡¯s eyes shifted, taking in the enormous city carved out the equally titanic mountain. By the ten, how far away is the fucking thing. Lacking any mitts, the youth pressed his hands closer beneath the patched cloak. Moth eaten attire offering the tender human form little protection against the elements.

    For hours more the youth trudged through knee high snowfall, the distant city inching nearer. Coming closer to the sealed gates Kain reverted the slit eyes, darkness befalling the world. Barely seeing beyond his outstretched arm, the boy ran a hand across the metal gate. Catching a shimmer of light Kain looked above. Lamplight illuminated the ramparts as a figure atop patrolled. The red haired youth shouted, screaming to the heavens in a vain attempt to draw attention, sadly, the unceasing roar of the gale drowned all within its fury. Resolute, Kain pounded the sturdy gate. Again to no avail, the boy stopping short of potentially damaging the monolith. Cursing his luck Kain searched for the wicket gate. Feeling the grooves the youth sat down, back leaning against the cold steel. Kain repositioned, placing the rucksack between him and the frosty gate. Cloak firmly wrapped about him and cursing sailors to shame, the youth attempted to sleep until sunrise.

    ¡°Move vagrant¡±. The boy awoke to a kick between his ribs. ¡°I said scram you flighty cur¡±. Shielding his eyes against the morning glimmer, Kain studied the full plate man glaring down upon him.

    Standing, the youth gave a curt bow ¡°Good morning to you good sir¡± Kain dusted the snow off him best he could, relieved that the innumerable days in the wilderness had not stripped him of all social grace.

    ¡°Ithraelle¡¯s tits, one would think the sodding snow would keep out the riff raff¡± the gruff man adjusted his open visor.

    ¡°Much apologies sir, however I beseech you fair passage to the city as I have found myself separated from my companions for many a day¡± Kain lowered his hood in an attempt to be less suspicious.

    The armored man grumbled an inaudible curse, ¡°Squire there, whatever your name is. Check this boy for weapons and contraband. The good duke would not leave a lone traveler to freeze to death¡±.

    Walking out the gate, the armored man pushed by Kain with little care for the youth¡¯s wellbeing. Reining in his anger to the unwarranted mistreatment, Kain awaited the squire¡¯s approach.

    As the squire patted Kain down for any hidden weapon the crimson youth looked jealously at the gambeson. More concerned for a comfortable, insulated garb and a warm broth than the current security check. The crimson youth nearly tore the rascal¡¯s head off as the thieving squire pocketed a gold coin. Closing the rucksack, the freckle faced man smirked at Kain. Taunting the boy to raise an objection.

    ¡°Follow me, I¡¯ll guide you through¡± said the thief.

    Grinding his teeth the red hair picked up his lightened sack and complied.

    Slighted, the youth stomped through the snowed in streets. As he calmed the youth regretted his tantrums for not acquiring about the city¡¯s layout. Pausing, Kain took in his surroundings. The buildings spread forth in an orderly fashion, stepping up levels after levels as the systematic streets thinned out of sight. Taking his current appearance in consideration the crimson boy distanced himself from the better off denizens. Shuffling through the ankle deep snow, Kain scanned the sparsely populated streets. Smell of freshly baked bread upon the wind sent his stomach grumbling.

    Smacking some sense back, the boy approached a young man shoveling snow. Greeting the greasy man, Kain asked ¡°Say sir, where might I find an inn¡±.

    Looking the red haired boy up and down, the lanky man spat out a mouthful of tobacco ¡°Come again¡±.

    Scowling, the crimson youth rifled through his bag, throwing a silver coin to the man ¡°Inn, where¡±.

    Pocketing the coin, ¡°Aye, straight till the green roofed building. It be a fair walk, not too long. Make a left, you¡¯ll see a two story building with an elk sign after a bit more¡± the man replied.

    Nodding, Kain walked off, hoping he did not just get conned like some rural buffoon.

    ¡®Wanddering Elk¡¯, Kain read the sign. A sad excuse at filigree writing, By Kuualdir, is this a joke. The youth stepped within the wooden building, an oddity amongst the stone sawed constructs surrounding it. Hood hiding the wild crimson hair Kain made his way through the packed tables, nary drawing any attention. Standing before the bar, a mustached man approached the youth. The squat, very short man addressed Kain.

    ¡°No handouts here, show me coin or out with you¡±.

    Looking at the wide man, a head shorter than himself, the crimson youth remained speechless.

    ¡°Humph, never seen a beardless dwarf before? Speak up man¡± the dwarf stroke his overly twirled mustache.

    ¡°I wish to board sir¡± said the boy, drawing some attention as he lowered his hood.

    Crossing his arms ¡°Five silver a night, one for meals. Morn and eve¡± said the dwarf.

    Glancing at the mite eaten boards, Kain twitched at the offer. ¡°Twenty silvers for a ten day, including meals and a daily bath¡± replied the boy.

    ¡°Ha!, don¡¯t be absurd boy¡± said the dwarf as he took in the youth.

    ¡°Then I shall find business somewhere else. Many thanks for the hospitality sir¡± Kain turned to leave.

    The dwarf¡¯s brown gambeson rustled as he quickly grabbed the red hair¡¯s shoulder, ¡°By the ten. You drive a tough bargain¡±. Signing, the air tossing his long whiskers about, ¡°This is what I get for leaving behind the stone¡± mumbled the dwarf, ¡°Fine, take a seat. I¡¯ll bring ye key after the meal¡± he added more audibly.

    Finding a quiet corner the crimson youth set down his rucksack, barely held together after the hard travelling. As he got comfortable a kindly middle aged woman served the pauper looking youth, a steaming beef soup accompanied by a loaf of bread and watered down ale. Having taken time to enjoy the meal, Kain went upstairs to his room. An iron basin of warm water and a clean rag waited within. A bed, a roof above my head, and warm cooked food a singular tear ran across his stoic face as Kain undressed.

    Slightly more presentable the crimson youth bounded downstairs. Spotting the hearty dwarf tending the early drunks, Kain approached. Sitting upon the wooden stool Kain tracked the wood grains upon the countertop as he waited to be tended.

    ¡°How¡¯re you planning to fleece me this time¡± asked the dwarf.

    ¡°Bottle of liquor and conversation¡± asked the crimson boy.

    Grunting, the slicked haired dwarf reached for a cloudy glass bottle. Placing the bottle and a cup before Kain, ¡°Vodka, it¡¯ll be fifty coppers¡± said the dwarf.

    Kain slid two large copper coins to the squat man. Uncorking the bottle, the boy poured himself a fill. Not as tantalizing as Adron¡¯s fine brews the aspiring alcoholic appreciated the thick essence of vodka. Gulping down the cup in a single motion, the youth refilled.

    ¡°Aha, a man after me own heart¡± smiled the dwarf, ¡°Lets converse away¡± added the dwarf as he took a bottle for himself.

    A few minutes of silent conversation later the dwarf procured fresh replacement for another round.

    ¡°So youngling, what ye called¡± asked the rosy cheeked man.

    ¡°Kain, sir. May I enquire yours¡± replied the crimson youth, warmth spreading throughout his person.

    ¡°Enough with the niceties. Name¡¯s Thaldrick¡± the dwarf took another gulp ¡°So what do you want¡¯a ask¡±.

    Matching Thaldrick, the youth drank his fill ¡°I wanted to inquire directions to the nearest mercenary guild branch¡±.

    Breaking into a laugh the dwarf nearly choked, ¡°You mustn¡¯t be from here¡± Thaldrick filled his cup ¡°The duke evicted all mercenaries from his duchy. Was his first edict actually¡±.

    The duo drank into the night, dwarf accounting for all of the youth¡¯s drinking despite his own inebriation.

    Sulphur infused every breath, ash and soot coating all about. Taking a step forward, kindling cracked below feet. The crimson youth wadded through the endless cataclysm, thin shadows needling the horizon. Forging through the billowing haze Kain reached one of the lithe figure. A gust blew, baring the surrounding clear to the youth. Before Kain lay a forest of burnt corpses, what little left of their visage frozen in wrenched horror. Refusing the dread vista Kain fell to his knees. Cracklings resounded as the squirming boy cupped his head within a vice grip. Pulling away, the crimson youth finally saw what he trotted upon. Crushed bones and burnt flesh.

    With a bound the youth awoke in cold sweat. A shiver ran through Kain, singular moon peeking between the curtains. The boy slip into his less patched shirt, strapping the worn leather jerkin before draping the well-travelled cloak.

    Weaving through the layers, gentle snowfall wiggled their way to warm skin. Irritated, a chill bit at the youth. Mage lights illuminated the streets, steady and even to an unnerving degree. Mindlessly strolling in attempt to clear his head the boy passed stone buildings after stone buildings. The constructs seemingly identical, only changing in cleanly demarked thresholds. The night was well and truly dead, not even a drunk tumbling the seedy corners within view.

    Having lost any and all measure of time the boy slunk into the darker regions, his dark disposition searching for the embrace of nothingness. Instinctively his eyes slit, dispersing the shadows as the endless days within the wild took over as. For what felt like an eternity Kain snaked the alleys, avoiding what scant few gatherings he spotted into the distance.

    Catching motion in his periphery the red hair halted, pulling his cloak closer. Cocooned in darkness Kain leant against the wall¡¯s edge, observing two figures looming over another. Curious, the boy could only watch, gathering winds deafening the exchange. Catching the prostrated individual by their collar, a standing figure dragged and shook the poor soul. Prompting meek gestures, followed by scathing laughter that pierced the hale.

    Aslena¡¯s teachings compelled Kain to assist the victim. Since he could remember, the priestesses would always remind him that the goddess of purity and patroness of knights would never bear any cruelty. However, past events had woven shades of grey into the boy¡¯s mind, shaking his faith. Making to leave the three to their own devices, Kain watched as the victim fell to the cobbled ground. Blood soaking the soft snow.

    Unsure why the youth tailed the murderous duo. Thankful that the elements hid his presence, stealth having never been his forte. Turn after turn found prey and hunter weaving the grid streets. Eventually, the meticulously residence gave way to more haphazard construction, clearly much older than the city proper.

    Kain hugged the shadows as his quarry fiddled with a set of weed covered gates. Key finally finding its mark the pair stepped into the overgrown yard, eagerly making their way within the poorly maintained manor. Putting logic aside Kain allowed instinct rein. Standing before the rusted gate, nails shifted into wicked claws as red scales flared outwards, stopping just below the youth¡¯s chin. Lowering his hood golden eyes shone within the night, red hair played by the frosty winds. With a swipe of his hand the rust flaked lock fell down in pieces.

    With a thud, the steel lined double doors flew off its hinges. Stepping through the portal akin to a spawn of Nhik¡¯vox, Kain studied the defaced hall. Packed in every corner, all manner of thugs and hooligans turned to the intruder. The room fell to silence, before breaking into an uproar as all shouted into a chaotic discord.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

    A gruff man approached Kain, his putrid breath preceding him. Baring cold steel the squatter threw the scabbard aside. Sinking into battle sense the world slowed to a sluggish crawl. The crimson youth studied the sword as it arced along the overhead swing. Concentrating, tiny wisps thrummed throughout the naked steel. Background arcane energies, which the boy had learnt all manner of entity possessed regardless of their mundane appearance. Inches from his face, Kain reached for the razor sharp blade. His motion suddenly halted the assailer pulled at his weapon. Unyielding, the weapon held fast within Kain¡¯s scaly grip. Fear finally setting in the fur wrapped man released the hilt, dropping to his rear as he scooted backwards. Squeezing the free weapon steel bent and contorted, before the blade shattered in half.

    Not a soul stirred, dread flushing the host. Chuckling to himself Kain walked towards the curving stairs, deliberate and with purpose. Surely, the leader does not mingle with the common rabble thought the boy. Turning to the sudden threat Kain observed as a bolt left its crossbow. Mundane. The heavy bolt tore through soft cloth fabrics. Quarrel shaft snapped from the force of the impact, naught but a faint chip across red scales attesting to the projectile. Kain grinned at the offender causing the man to bolt for the entrance, disappearing into the dark.

    Dam burst, the residents all but climbed over one another to evacuate the abode. Looking upwards the red hair pondered as half-dressed men and women held onto the railings. Drawn weapons shaking within the grasps of some as others curled, praying to whomever would listen.

    Purposely Kain dallied up the stairs, claws drawing flakes from the brass railings. Spotting a man in gold lined silks the youth made for his mark. As the death¡¯s very emissary passed them, all within his wake tore for freedoms sweet allure. Taking note of his marked status the silken man dove within a decadent room. Kain upon his heel.

    Entering the bedroom Kain scanned about himself, spotting a door ajar from the brighter lights seeping through. Pushing the well-oiled oak doors a rush of danger flared. Dropping into a roll the air rushed above Kain, an orichalcum tipped ballista bolt embedding itself within the stone wall, sending the marble finish flying apart. Fucker has a ballista in his study! Pouncing like a feral animal, Kain landed atop the man. Clawed hand perilously coiled around the trembling man¡¯s throat, the other lifted high, poise to shear flesh and bone.

    Leaning closer to the pinned leader¡¯s ear the boy whispered ¡°Gather your men¡± his youthful tone never registering within the incontinent man. ¡°I will return in three nights¡± a claw drew a trickle of blood, earning yet another spasm ¡°No business will occur before then¡±. Another claw tasted blood ¡°Do not earn my ire, you and your ilk serve me now¡±.

    Then just as abruptly as the storm rolled in, the terror left Hans¡¯ headquarters without preamble. Calming the torrents that was his thoughts, Hans never realized that the red demon had pilfered his pouch of gold from atop the desk before departing.

    Backtracking to the ¡®Wanddering Elk¡¯ Kain thumbed through the cold, gold coins. Why he did any of what had transpired was beyond him. None the less it felt exhilarating. No longer would another rule above him, no longer will he bend to another¡¯s whim. He would helm his own path from this point forward, the world that abandoned him would provide. Willing or not.

    Three days past, the crimson youth returned to the Old District. Four moons illuminated the night casting aside near all shadows. As ever the five celestial beings were fickle, denying any would be scholar in predicting their glorious cycle. Fur lined coat topping fine leather and velvet cut an impressive image. Sadly ruined by the near six feet cross tightly wrapped in dark linen strips the youth shouldered.

    Crossing the manor yard Kain noticed two sentries before the hastily repaired doors. The guards cursed their faiths at being within the night¡¯s frosty embrace. At least they learn the boy thought to himself. Granted entry the red hair lowered his hood. Dark blue eyes studied the capacity filled hall. Gaggle of equally fearful and curious tracked Kain, all rooted to their location. Stopping at the base of the stairs Kain turned to the crowd, ¡°Hans¡± he called. Quickly the clean shaven man shuffled up to the boy, but a step behind as Kain made for the wiry man¡¯s room.

    Taking the dominant seat at the study¡¯s desk, Kain leant the concealed great sword at his side. The eight and a half pound weapon weighing down the crimson youth no more than a knife. ¡°So Hans¡± the boy placed the blade atop the clean desk, ¡°Did you receive my note¡± slowly unravelling the massive blade Kain appreciated the intimidation factor of the sword.

    Hands overly animated the man replied ¡°Ye¡­yes¡±. With a gulp Hans steadied himself ¡°I had your ultimatum sent to the Bloodhounds yesterday¡±.

    I¡¯m surprised how easy it was to acquire information about these gangs. How in all hells are they still operating¡­ the youth broke out his inner monologue as he realized the man was still talking.

    ¡°¡­Sir¡± asked Hans nervously.

    Standing, the red hair hoisted his comically oversized weapon ¡°Gather the men and do as planned¡±.

    Akin to a wraith, Kain strode the cobble streets of the Old District. Naked steel upon his shoulder and sixteen armed men but a few paces behind. None dare utter a word as the group twined the erratic stone buildings. Weaving through the small town, detached but within the majestic city, Kain arrived before the grand walled manor. Located in the district¡¯s center, the manor was a sight to behold even ravaged by time and disrepair.

    Motioning for the ¡®Shadow Fall¡¯ to hold Kain approached the twelve feet gate, perfectly in line with the stone wall. Inhaling deeply Kain sunk into battle lust, snow fall all but unmoving before him. Drawing his full might the boy kicked the solid steel obstruction. Cobblestone shattered beneath the planted foot as his right sole battered the obstruction. Leaping through the buckled gates Kain was met with a volley of crossbow bolts. Barely maintaining his balance upon the slick grounds Kain twirled the great sword awkwardly, deflecting the projectiles.

    Seeing their attack fail the twenty crossbow men fell behind ranks. In sync, three dozen pike men fell into formation. The curved line encircled Kain, creating a killing ground. Trapping the crimson youth within their range, with but the contorted portal offering escape, the warriors thrusted in unison. Again, Kain twirled his overlong weapon, both hands upon the hilt to offer optimal control. Spinning in a horizontal figure eight, the great sword caught offending thrusts after thrusts. Wood chips and metal heads showered the yard as the blade cleaved and shattered wooden poles.

    Comfort of their longer ranged weapons rend asunder, the warriors unsheathed their side arms. As one the throng stood their ground. The red hair took a step forward. In kind, the group rippled as they inched backwards. Parting the sea of flesh and steel, Kain strode through the offending line unmolested. None in the mass having the courage to engage the fiend in melee.

    Before the boy stood a man in full plate.

    ¡°The fuck you¡¯ll doing¡± screamed the man ¡°Attack!, its but one short cunt¡±, spitting in disgust he added ¡°Fine you dick-less sods¡±.

    Lowering his visor the Bloodhounds¡¯ leader gripped his halberd, lowering into a more stable stance. Cracking the earth Kain charged his foe. Meeting the blur before him the armored man lunged to meet Kain. Inches before the halberd¡¯s point Kain slammed his left foot into the ground, shifting his weight to the right leg Kain spun inside the man¡¯s guard. Coming out the twirl, the youth brought his sword upwards. Exhaling, Kain slammed his weapon atop the helmet before his foe could recover from the thrust. A deafening symphony rang across the open yard, the blade laid shattered having dented the helmet inwardly by an inch. Slumping downwards the Bloodhounds leader lay motionless. Neck having given out under the intense blow, killing the man instantly.

    Back turned to the gawking crowd Kain bit into his lower lip, drawing blood. Steady now. This is the path you have chosen the youth reprimanded himself. They want a monster. Give them want they want Kain held to his crumbling mind, suppressing the guilt noosing about his heart.

    Minutes passed as the boy stood before the slain man, steading his breath as he attempted to justify the execution. To the Bloodhounds thugs though he appeared as a wraith gloating over its kill. Wiping his bloody lip Kain turned to the mass, grief having drawn the golden slits. Unawares of his transformation the youth uttered.

    ¡°YIELD¡±.

    His forced tone further painting him as the villain. On cue the Shadow Fall entourage arrived, no resistance were offered as Hans and his men bound the larger group.

    Leaning against the walls near the entrance, Kain caught concealed movements within the manor. Faint light seeping through the glass windows being snuffed one after another. With a cough Hans bought the crimson youth¡¯s attention.

    ¡°We¡¯re done binding them¡± the man shuffled beneath his coat, vain attempt in keeping the persistent snow at bay.

    ¡°Good¡± Kain straightened ¡°Have the Bloodhounds elect a new leader¡±.

    Hans¡¯ eyes darted from side to side, his hands restless.

    Signing, the red hair asked ¡°Out with it¡±.

    ¡°Uhm...sir, what if any oppose¡± replied Hans.

    ¡°Eliminate those that don¡¯t fall in line¡± Kain pulled his hood low, hiding his disgust at himself ¡°With the Hounds assistance, your Shadow Fall will consolidate the Old District¡±. Before the man could object Kain added ¡°Any within the Old District not serving in a ten day¡±, blue orbs shifted to golden slits ¡°I will handle personally¡±. The boy slinked into the night, not trusting himself to further inquiry.

    Dawn found the red hair back at the Wanddering Elk. Coming through the doors Kain locked eyes with the dwarf.

    ¡°Someone been enjoying the nightlife¡± beamed the dwarf, ¡°So who¡¯s the lucky la¡­¡± the jovialness flowed out Thaldrick upon seeing the youth¡¯s countenance.

    ¡°Are the Adron whiskeys in¡± asked Kain. The dwarf grunted a positive nod. ¡°Bring a case to my room¡± the youth added as he dragged his steps.

    Over the next seven days Kain spent every waking moment drunk, drowning out the nightmares. By the eight he found his wits. Steeling himself, the youth drew out his future plans. An occasional drink to numb any emotions that threatened to derail his thoughts.

    The tenth day heralded a blizzard, the tempest lashing at the crimson youth¡¯s furs. Turned around twice Kain braved the storm. Bloody winter. The youth finally arrived at the Bloodhounds¡¯ mansion, no sentries on account of prevailing weather.

    Winter¡¯s shrill eased as the carved oak doors closed behind Kain. Not but a single soul stood within the vaulted hall.

    ¡°Good evening Master Kain¡± approached a young woman, faint blue dyes of her winter wares easy on the eyes. With a gesture the attendant relieved Kain of his coat, snowflakes rolling off the soft fur coat. ¡°I hope the journey was not too unpleasant Master¡± the supple woman hung the coat upon a polished wooden hook, swirling engravings mesmerizing to the observant.

    Barely audible a groan escaped the crimson youth.

    A soft smile graced the attendant¡¯s visage, ¡°If you would be so kind¡± the woman took the lead, Kain but half a step behind.

    Silence prevailed as the pair walked at a sedate pace, unsoiled carpet making for light foot falls. Faint mage lights peppered the manor, the odd candles and lamps seemingly meant for naught but ambiance. A faint cough brought Kain out of his musing.

    ¡°We have arrived Master¡±

    The attendant rapped gently on the double doors. But an instance later the heavy doors open, ¡°You may leave¡± announced Hans. With a curt bow to Kain, the woman made for depths unknown.

    ¡°Good evening Sir¡± greeted the man almost sheepishly, stepping aside to allow the red hair entry.

    All gazes shifted to Kain as he entered the room, three of the four seated studying him keenly. Swiftly the youth took to the great stone table¡¯s head, awaiting patiently for Hans to take his place before an utterance. The Shadow Fall leader seated, eyes darting to all about him before abruptly stopping upon the red wraith. Defying the chill a bead of sweat snaked across Hans¡¯ brow, crumbling as he was under the piercing glare.

    ¡°S¡­ Sir, these are the leaders of the Old District¡± said Hans ¡°All others have entered the fold under our leadership, and the rest have left outright¡± the man ended with a gulp.

    Satisfied with Hans¡¯ answer Kain leant deep within the cushioned chair ¡°Very well¡± the boy crossed his fingers, resting his chin upon them. ¡°I¡¯ll cut straight to point, you will all maintain a certain degree of autonomy. Open hostilities between one another will not be tolerated however¡± Kain let his words sink in, his face a mask of indifference ¡°And as the leader of this merry little group¡± the youth paused for effect ¡°A third of all profits will be paid to me as tribute¡±.

    A crash resonated through the room as the blonde woman to Kain¡¯s right hand side stood fuming, her chair toppled from the outrage. A thin wisp of a smirk curled upon the red haired youth.

    ¡°Is a culling in order?¡± asked Kain.

    Biting unto her lips, nearly drawing blood, the woman retook her seat.

    ¡°Edmund I believe¡± Kain asked to the well-built man on his left ¡°Congratulations are in order, Bloodhounds¡¯ new head¡±, eliciting a grunt from the man. ¡°You are to cease and desist all mercenary activities¡± the youth drummed the armrest gently ¡°By the ten, how your gang has remained active after directly insulting the Duke is beyond me¡±.

    Edmund shifted where he sat, self-deprecating smile plastered across his face.

    ¡°The Bloodhounds will turn to racketeering¡± Kain sight roamed the host ¡°No one is to target Edmund¡¯s clients, do I make myself clear¡±. Everything going to plan so far thought the boy. ¡°Hans will be my proxy¡± Kain glowered over the wiry man, blue orbs transforming unto golden slits surprising the three newcomer. ¡°Do not disappoint me¡± added the boy before leaving.

    A gentle knock preluded the attendant¡¯s entry to the meeting room, ¡°Master Kain has left the premises Madame Alva¡±.

    ¡°Thank you, prepare for our departure¡± replied the seated brunet.

    As the doors closed a blur whistled across the void as a dagger buried within Kain¡¯s chair.

    ¡°Calm yourself Lisa¡± said the bald man besides Hans and Edmund, looking upon the re-toppled chair of the blonde.

    ¡°That¡¯s Lady Summerstill to you!¡± replied the woman.

    ¡°Now, now Lady Summerstill¡ª¡± started Hans.

    ¡°Shut it you spineless rat!¡± Lisa turned her attention to Hans ¡°I will hear nothing from a boot lick¡± the woman slammed the stone table ¡°Lasvarii take you. We see how you bend to the brat¡¯s every word¡±. Taking short breaths Lisa added ¡°I will handle this personally, the sprouts days are numbered¡±.

    ¡°Easy now Summerstill¡± intruded Edmund ¡°You were not there that night, I would not push my luck in your shoes¡±.

    Crossing her arms Lisa scoffed at the tall man ¡°For all his pomp and circumstance, this Kain has killed but a single person¡±, sneering at the Bloodhounds leader ¡°Feluniir would be disappointed¡± added the woman.

    Bursting into motion Edmund was upon the woman before any could react, pinning the slender noble to the ground.

    ¡°Do not question my faith cunt¡± Edmund said through clenched teeth.

    The bald man placed a firm hand onto Edmund¡¯s shoulder ¡°Enough, let us remain civil¡±.

    Having dissolved the violence he offered an arm to the downed noble. Lisa slapped the open palm away, ¡°I do not need your help Hammond¡± the woman caressed her bruised neck as she regained her feet.

    Slowly returning to her seat Lisa turned to the last member, a seething hate creeping to the surface as she watched the young woman refilling the crystal clear wine glass. The ros¨¦ releasing a sweet fragrance as it swirled.

    ¡°And what say you Alva, surely a sorceress of your caliber would not play second fiddle to a child¡± the noble poked gingerly at her swelling neck.

    Taking a tentative sip Alva replied ¡°Why do you assume we would be worst off under the child¡¯s rule¡±. Alva raised a hand, preemptively halting the noble woman¡¯s rebuke ¡°Hubris would be our downfall, it behooves us to be patient and observe¡±.

 Chapter 6.1

    From the void a spark sprung forth, growing unto a gentle tongue of flames. Unrelenting the arcane energies broiled, threatening to scorch all about. An iron clad will descended upon unruly energies, in futility the fires lashed back before submitting to its creator. Subservient, the arcane energies rolled forth methodically, burning conduits within blood and flesh. Seconds turned into minutes as the surge linked to smaller conduits, reinforcing the old channels, twisting their nature where needs be. In time the unnatural energy seared through skin, tasting the morning dew.

    A thirty feet cone of fire burst forth from Kain¡¯s outstretched arm, blackening the stone roof beneath. Spring breeze sweep the aftermath, and again Kain coerced the raw arcane flames through the set conduits. Sapping but an infinitesimal amount of his vast vitality the arcane energies raced through the circuits, and given purpose the flame cone leapt into life with a primal rumble.

    ¡°Congratulation, you¡¯re a Journeyman Pyromancer now¡± said the older man as he approached Kain. A multitude of scars visible upon his lean frame, his light velvet shirt rolled up at the sleeve as they were.

    ¡°Much appreciated Master Grenlor¡± replied Kain, towering over his mentor. The red hair broke into a smile ¡°Only took eight years¡±.

    ¡°Enough. I do not want to be address as such by the likes of you¡± said the man, wrinkles deepening with his scowl, ¡°To business¡±.

    Kains shoulders sagged at the coldness, recovering his spirit in short order ¡°To business then. The latest girl we found is most likely your daughter¡±. The crimson man reached for the cotton towel from over his shoulder, wiping the soot coating his hands ¡°Meet with Hans, he can arrange the meet tomorrow¡±. A manservant walked up to the pair with a swift gait, relieving Kain of the tainted towel before slinking out of sight. ¡°I am sure we found her this time¡± finished Kain, cutting the very image of his namesake in the dawn rays.

    ¡°Sure you have, after all you no longer have any more need of me¡± replied the Master Pyromancer, sun-baked skin taut over compact muscles juxtaposing the inane mass of his crimson Apprentice, nay, Journeyman.

    ¡°¡ª¡±. The old gentlemen was upon the stair before Kain could even say another word. I was hoping Raolin would warm up over the years the red hair lamented. With a nod of the chin Kain left the roof, his servant following close behind.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    Approaching his master suite the red haired halted, noticing the door slightly ajar. Placing a hand on the carved wood Kain pushed the door silently, poised to pounce at a moment¡¯s notice.

    With a long exhale Kain massaged his brow, a vain attempt to soothe his rising ire. ¡°Out¡± Kain said flatly, locking eyes with the prepubescent girl atop his bed, clearly bare beneath the bed sheets. ¡°Tell Alva that I am not amused¡± the red hair added.

    The half dozen young woman quickly redressed, unsteady hands betraying barely restrained fear. Dishevelled the maidens rushed pass the crimson titan, a monolith besides the threshold. As the last of the chastened left, Kain closed the door. Becoming visible, the handle¡¯s enchantments glowed under his vice grip, sheltering the platinum finish from harm.

    ¡°Spoil sport¡± uttered the child, pouting in a sweet manner.

    ¡°Alva, I¡¯m not into children¡± Kain walked across the room, approaching a raised bowl filled with water he channelled raw arcane fire within the arcanium engravings. Seconds later the water boiled ¡°I swear¡­¡± Kain dipped a towel, refreshing from the morning activities.

    ¡°Aw¡± the girl threw herself into the pillows ¡°All that effort to save a new batch¡± feigning a tear.

    ¡°Enough¡± Kain said flatly, tossing a white silk shirt towards her.

    ¡°You boar¡± the shirt stopped mid-air, hanging inches before her. The petite girl contorted, shifting back to the buxom brunet, pass twelve years unapparent.

    ¡°You don¡¯t need that disguise¡± Kain placed the moist towel aside, ¡°Here, or anywhere else¡± he added in a softer tone.

    Moving swiftly the shirt dressed Alva by its own accord, with all the grace of a trained servant, ¡°And you can let me teach you Sorcery¡±.

    ¡°We¡¯ve been over that before¡± the crimson man walked towards his desk, immaculately well kept.

    ¡°Don¡¯t give me that, I know that you¡¯ve been dabbling in Mind¡± Alva said, her mood threatening to sour.

    ¡°That¡¯s not the same, you know that¡ª¡±

    ¡°Enough of that¡± she raised her left arm, fingers outspread ¡°Get over here¡± she said with a purr. And feeling no resistance she clasped her hand, dragging the red hair across the room by arcane means.

    Breaking the tethers the instance before he met the bed, ¡°We don¡¯t have time¡­¡± Kain said. His will wavered as he gazed upon Alva, What can it hurt, the crimson behemoth placed a knee atop the mattress. Then came a knock at the door.

    ¡°Tut¡± exclaimed the woman, lips but a hair¡¯s breadth from Kain''s.

    ¡°It¡¯s Hans, you should¡ª¡±

    ¡°Come in¡± Alva cut him off.

    Swinging open the middle age man started ¡°Boss, I¡¯ve met with Master Grenlor, but we have a problem¡­¡±, freezing mid step as he caught the couple¡¯s precarious posture. ¡°I can come back later¡± said Hans as he slowly started to backtrack.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous¡± interrupted Alva as she slid back within the pillows, pulling up the duvet for extra modesty. ¡°Come in¡± she eased into the padded headboard, ¡°So what¡¯s the problem¡±.