ã€ŠReign of Darknessã€‹


 00 Prologue

    In Hauzar continent the domains of demons and beast are ruled by two powerful rulers, one in the east and one in the west. They were know as Ruler of darkness and epitome of savagery and were feared by all the creatures. They ruled and conquered many land through sheer force and terror. Under their rule the demons and fiends prospered and roamed every corners of the continent.

    At the edge of Crimson blood forest there stood a rocky mountain and on top of it there was a castle; anyone who is unfortunate enough to come across this castle would shiver upon its creepiness and would run away from it as far as possible. In a large room of the castle there was a throne on which sat a person who seem to be in his late teens with handsome features and otherworldly charm, his name was Aeron.  Besides the throne stood an entity who looked like a devil, with big curved horns protruding out of his head and had large black wings like that of a crow.

    ¡°Master, the battle has come to an end and his highness has been captured; the enemy forces will reach this castle in an hour. We should make haste and retreat in the forest¡± The big devil said.

    ¡°Heractus, There are still 7 hours before the sun sets. I cannot hope to escape from them, not when the enemy is capable of capturing father¡± said Aeron in a displeased tone.

    Suddenly an idea spark in his mind, Aeron rose to his feet and started walking. He went towards the upper chambers of the castle and stood before a big door.

    ¡°Master, you cannot possibly be thinking of using one of Reaz¡¯s contraptions. They are dangerous and many of them are defective¡± ¨C Heractus.

    ¡°I know but there is no other way, the old beard may be crazy but he builds some great contraptions. Father disdains them but they have their uses¡± ¨C Aeron.

    Aeron walked into the room hurriedly. It reeked of blood and oil and for any normal person this will look like a torture chamber filled with corpses and bizarre tools. After walking deeper into the lab Aeron found himself in front of a metallic door. As Aeron opened the metallic door a very small room the size 4 meters came into view, all four side of the room consists of metallic wall and it had no roof.

    Aeron turned towards Heractus and said in a resigned manner ¡°This is my only hope, you should erase your essence and I will summon you when it¡¯s possible¡±

    ¡°Yes Master. I shall wait for your summon and hope I can be of your aide again as soon as possible¡± ¨C Heractus.

    ¡°I will enter the cell now; you should pull the lever after few moments¡± Aeron said and entered the room. He firmly closed the metallic door and looked towards the sky. It was a bright day outside and the sun loomed over his head.

    Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.

    A big click sound rattled out and the whole laboratory started to shake, suddenly dark clouds started to form above the castle. The dark clouds started to spread from the castle and the darkness engulfed the mountain and the surrounding forest. Suddenly an enormous lightning bolt struck from the clouds pointed towards the cell. Within few seconds the clouds dispersed.

    Heractus opened the hot metallic door which was red and peeked inside; there was nothing other than hot red metallic walls which were melting like magma. After closing the door it closed its eyes. After few moments it folded its arms to its shoulder and muttered a chant. A dark ball emerged before it which expanded rapidly. It sucked everything in its surrounding. Within seconds the dark ball engulfed the whole castle and then it started to collapse on itself, the dark ball condensed and then it disappeared without a trace and the castle along with it.

    Few hours later, five shadows stood in the place where the castle stood. They were waiting

    for something or rather someone. A Lean figure stepped out of the darkness and stood slowly came in front of the five figures. The five figures bent on their knees and placed their right hand on their shoulders display loyalty towards the lean figure.

    ¡°We salute the almighty ruler¡± They chimed in unison. One of them stepped forward and lowered his head and said ¡°The castle is nowhere to be found my master; our guess is that one of them stayed behind and destroyed the castle after learning about the outcome of the battle. There is no sign of demonic essence, so whatever destroyed the castle must have perished along with it¡±

    The lean figure gestured lifted his arm and a red gem materialized in thin air ¡°We already have his essence and there is no other threat for us. I am going to my castle, take care of everything and don¡¯t leave any loose ends¡± after saying so, the lean figure disappeared in thin air.

    ¡°You heard the master, clear the area. Leave nothing.¡± Said the first shadow and the five figures dispersed in different direction.

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    For a long time I waned to write something, although art is my specialty.  Please let me know of any mistakes and I will correct it. I will also be glad for any Suggestion and if it''s in tune with the story I might incorporate it. Hope you will enjoy and please go easy on the criticism as I am new to writing a novel.

 01 Chapter

    ¡°Huh... My head hurts like hell.. Where am I...Who am I... Why is everything dark in here¡± as I opened my eyes I can see only darkness. My head and entire body hurts, I am exhausted.. I close my eyes again and felt myself loosing consciousness.

    ¡°Wake up.. Wake up.. We ain¡¯t got all day¡± I hear a voice yelling at me. I open my eyes again and a big figure came into my view. Is he a barbarian, I ponder to myself.

    ¡°Captain told me to get you, come on.. Hurry up or the captain gonna be mad¡± The barbarian poked on shoulder with the huge stick he had and turned around to leave.

    I quickly stood up despite the pain in my body and followed him. After going on few wooden steps what came to is the vast ocean. We were on board some ship and surrounded by water everywhere. There was nothing else other than water as far as my eyes can see.

    I quickly followed the man as view my surroundings. There were 6 people around me who were busy working on one thing or another. Another person was standing or sitting high up in the pole overlooking the horizon. I was led before a man with a long beard who was missing an arm. His eyes looked menacing and scars cover his whole face. He faced me and started speaking.

    ¡°Well, looks like you had a nice sleep. Who are you and where are you from?¡± he asked me.

    I looked at him confused and said ¡°I don¡¯t know, I don¡¯t remember anything. Who am I and why am I here?¡±

    ¡°Hum.. Looks like the sea knocked you for good. We found you in the ocean and lifted you on deck. I though you are some nobility and I would get some stash, guess Its loss for me. There is no place for freeloaders on Radius, you have two choice become a slave or become seafood¡± said the captain without any sympathy.

    I started at him for a few moments. I don¡¯t know if I can stay in a place which smells this bad, not to mention all these rough looking men. I considered the option of jumping into the sea and wait for some other ship to pass by, but quickly dispelled the thought as I don¡¯t know if I am capable of swimming.

    Suddenly the captain kicked me in the stomach and smirked at me ¡°The only one who can think and make a choice on Radius is me, others simply follow my command. Remember that and you can prolong your worthless life. Frank, give him the washcloth and bucket. He can start cleaning the deck and doors¡±

    I winced in pain as I grabbed my stomach. The barbarian whose name seems to be frank grabbed my shoulders and let me back into the room I initially was in. I was given a dirty bucked and a dirty cloth and was told to start cleaning the deck. If the captain is pleased with my work I will be allowed to eat otherwise I won¡¯t get any food.

    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.Frank was leaving after giving me directions and I spat on the floor in disgust. No way am I going become slave of some dirty men. I again considered jumping into the ocean but having nowhere else to go, I started thinking and made up my mind to make a plan to get my revenge as well as find a way for a safe escape. From what I have seen I came to the conclusion that this is a pirate ship and all people on board are pirates and the captain is the boss of them. Every pirate is big and muscular so I cannot escape using force. I have to carefully plan my escape. I took the cloth and bucked and went upstairs to work.

    ---Captain¡¯s POV---

    Yesterday was a terrible storm with raging thunder and lightning. I have been on Radius all my life yet I have never seen a storm as fearsome before. We thought for sure that Radius would sink and we would all perish, yet the mighty Radius withstood the storm and we all survived. We have to raid some merchant ship soon for materials to repair Radius or else it would not sail for long. As the storm passed the sky cleared and we were all happy and relieved.

    One of my men who are on the lookout gives us a signal that there is something out there. Thinking that it is a shark I grabbed my hook and ordered my men to prepare the net. As the thing got closer, it seems to be a corpse of a young man. We took the corpse on board to search for any valuables. Imagine the surprise we got when the man was alive, he was breathing and seems to be unconscious. I ordered my men to search his cloths, which looked a little bit expensive and there was nothing in it. Not a single thing. Maybe all his belongings sank in the ocean. Still It didn¡¯t make any sense that he survived the storm.

    ¡°Captain, He¡¯s got nothing. Should we toss him back in the ocean?¡± asked fatty who searched him.

    I looked at his face which was handsome and well defined and said ¡°Are you a fool, He looks handsome and is wearing expensive cloths. He must belong to some noble family. Lock him up in the spare room, we might get a good ransom for him¡± I said and walked away.

    The next day frank brought him over to me. The first time I looked at him I get a sudden feeling of dread and an urge to run away from him as far as possible, but I swallowed my urge and dismissed it as a sign of fatigue. Maybe I am little bit tired after continuous raiding and plundering. I asked him about his identity and he said that he didn¡¯t know who he is and where he is from. I don¡¯t know whether he is telling is truth, but I will find out sooner or later. If he is a noble then someone is bound to come looking for him. If no one comes looking for him, then I can sell him in slave market, judging by his looks I¡¯ll be able to sell him to some rich old hag or some perverted noble for quite a sum. For now I assigned him some measly work which none of my crew want to do.

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    I have got a new job, hurray for me. I try to set up a daily hour for writing. Hopefully I will able to develop my story as I have planned and once again if you find any errors, please let me know. I will correct them and try to make my story much better and enjoyable to read.

 02 Chapter

    It¡¯s been six days since I woke up in this filthy ship. It¡¯s  not so filthy anymore since I started cleaning, but still it¡¯s dirty and the fact that it¡¯s home of smutty pirates who take pride in being dirty doesn¡¯t help much. In fact I feel like as the days go by I am becoming dirty as well. I hate this place and want to get away from here as soon as possible. No! Simply leaving this place is not enough. A place such as this should not exist.

    Over the period of days I have proven myself to be a great worker. The captain even praised me a few time and thus I have gained the confidence of my fellow pirates although they do look at me like I am beneath them, not that it concerns me much. I was even been promoted from a half loaf of dirty bread to a full loaf of dirty bread meal.

    I have mapped out the entire ship and have to hide the piece of paper in my underwear like some barbarian. Che..can¡¯t help it, the captain is still a little bit wary and keep an eye on me. There are six medium size room aside from the kitchen, one belongs to the capital; two rooms for other pirates where I am also provided a corner of my own and one is a pleasure room where three women are held and the purpose of the room is self explanatory; one room where the food and other provisions are kept and remaining room is where all the loot is being kept.  There are nine pirates in total including the captain. So I have to plan carefully otherwise it will end in my demise.

    I am a little curious about the room where the treasures are kept but I can¡¯t even imagine to gain access to it since the captain holds the key and no one else is allowed to enter it, not even frank who is practically the right handyman of the captain.

    Frank has the key to food and provisions room, I have become quite a favorite of frank like a pet though and after I undertook some of his work shift, he has a some favorable opinion of me. Every night at frank pays a visit to the pleasure room for half an hour. Every pirates time is fixed like that, Yeh sick bunch of douche bags. One evening the captain ordered frank to make a list of provisions we have on board so as to count the no of days we can sail without problem. Frank was not happy with the command as it means giving up on pleasure time and sleep time. After the captain retired for the day. I snuck off from my post and went to the provisions room. There I found a dejected frank in the corner of the room.

    ¡°Hello frank, how¡¯s the work going¡± I asked him with a smirk.

    ¡°The hell with work, why am I struck with this stupid work when others are making merry and sleeping. On top of it even a newbie like you making a sarcastic remark. Fuck off or I¡¯ll beat you to death¡± Frank growled angrily.

    ¡°Calm down, I am here to help. How can I go to sleep when you, my senior is working¡± I said with a smile.

    ¡°Screw off, here to help my ass! No one helps anyone without any benefit. Whatever you want ain¡¯t gonna happen¡± he said and turned back to work once again.

    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

    ¡°Please frank listen to me. It¡¯s not much; A single loaf of bread isn¡¯t enough for me. I just want you put a good word to the captain about me so that I might get another loaf of bread. I promise I¡¯ll double my efforts at work. I am always feeling hungry and the fact that everybody else get to eat four loaf of bread is making me go mad with envy.¡± I said to him.

    Frank looked at me with pity and agreed ¡°Ok, you help me with my work and I will try to build a good opinion of you with the captain. I said will try, can¡¯t guarantee it though¡±

    ¡°A little chance is better than no chance, I¡¯ll take it¡± I said and started sorting out the provision with frank.

    After half an hour frank left me alone for his nightly pleasures, he cautioned me against steeling as it will cost me an arm. I quickly got to inspect the inventory for anything that can help with my plan. The room is filled with food; these bastards give me single bread when they have plenty of stuff here.

    Initially my plan was to see if there is any good stuff that I can snoop up when possible. I noted quite a few things which were of my interest. I also noticed that there is a bunch of cigars as well as barrels filled with wine and in far corner there were also plenty of barrels filled with gun powder, apparently they use them to blow up enemy ship after plundering it. After inspecting everything in the room I went to my usual work or rather frank¡¯s work.

    It¡¯s been two days since I took on franks work. I still do some of his work, frank gave me the key to the provisions room today to fetch some stuff to make porridge, unfortunately he took back the key from me. I am not disheartened though since I know it¡¯s only a matter of time before frank completely trusts me with the key. All that¡¯s left now is to get matchsticks for the fireworks. Both captain and Merlin smoke cigars, getting the fire from captain is out of the question as he is cunning and will know that I am up to something. Swiping it from Merlin isn¡¯t as easy either, but I have to take my chance with him.

    The next day there were small murmurs among the pirates, all of them were have quite a discussion. I overheard some of them, from what I hear we are going to pass through a place called guandaur, it is not a place but a territory in ocean which is said to be plagued by spirits and ghosts and quite a few ships have been disappeared in this area over the period of time. I felt that this is my chance; if I screw up I can pretend to be possessed by a spirit. Not that It will work for sure but it will have to do.

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    I am thinking of making some art work. Writing a chapter takes priority though but still I think I''ll make some when I have time. Hope you enjoy the chapter and once again please let me know of any errors, suggestion are welcomed too..

 03 Chapter

    It was eerily quiet in the night; I waited for Merlin to enter the pleasure room. A few minutes passed by and I calmly entered the room with the small knife in my hand which I took earlier from the cooking place. I moved forward without making any sound what greeted my nose is the awful stench which made me want to puke whatever little was left in my stomach. Merlin was occupied with the women on the left, all three women were nude and bound to the chains. They lay motion less. I though they are dead but quickly dismissed the thought as their flesh were not rotten. I quietly made my way behind Merlin. The women Merlin was using looked at me but didn''t voice anything, I took the knife to Merlin¡¯s throat as fast and possible and with a shriek it was over.

    Wait, something¡¯s not right, Merlin¡¯s dead alright but a black smoke like substance started gathering over the now dead Merlin. Suddenly it shot towards me, I jumped in order to avoid it, but alas It closed on me and I saw it enter in my chest. I felt a sharp pain for a moment and then everything was quite again. I stood there shocked and dumbfounded; trying to understand what happed just now. I look all over the room to find some clue as to what happened but there was nothing unusual. I collected myself and started searching Merlin¡¯s cloths for the matchsticks. I pocketed them and looked towards the three women. I doubt they will tell others that I killed Merlin but I didn''t want to risk it.

    I stepped forward with the knife in my hand. I looked at the woman who was just being violated by Merlin. She looked me right in the eye; strangely she was not afraid even after seeing me kill Merlin. She didn¡¯t even flinch, it¡¯s like she welcomed death. I felt really bad for these women, I can¡¯t stand the sight of these men and these women have to endure being violated by them each and every day.

    ¡°I am sorry but I have to kill you¡± I said to the women in front of me.

    I didn''t expect any reply from her, maybe a scream or a little protest but all she said was ¡°Thank you¡± and she slowly started crying.

    I was surprised first and then felt my heart wrench after she started crying. I knew that I cannot save these women; at least I can put them out of their misery.

    I took my knife to her throat and with a gasp she stooped breathing. Again the black globe started forming in front of me. This time I prepared myself for I knew that there was no escaping from the black globe.  It entered me again and a sharp pain ensured. I don¡¯t know what it was but I can tell It was not anything dangerous as I am still alive after the first one entered me. I noticed the other two women staring at me; I did not know that they were watching me the entire time. They didn''t resist either and yet again I had to endure two black globes.

    I pondered whether to leave the corpse here and feign ignorance but decided to dispose them off as to completely avoid any suspicion. I raised the corpse of the women first and to my surprise it was very light, heck how much malnourished she has to be to feel this weightless. I pushed the thought aside and started walking out of the room. Thankfully no one was outside. I carefully avoided Ray who was on the lookout outside and placed the corpse at the corner outside his view and quietly slipped to gather other corpses. Strangely enough all of them felt very light, including the corpse of Merlin. I lined up the corpses one after another and quickly pushing them into the ocean. Ray noticed the sound when the corpse hit the water and scooted over to where I was standing.

    ¡°What..Who is there? What are you doing outside at this hour?¡± Ray asked me alarmed.

    ¡°Ray it¡¯s me, you don¡¯t have to be so afraid. Frank threw up after drinking lot of alcohol and I disposed off the cloth I used to wash it.¡± I said in a calm tone.

    Ray relaxed a bit after hearing me; his expression changed and he asked me agitatedly ¡°why is there blood on your cloths¡±

    I looked down at my cloths and surely there were lot of blood stains. I immediately pounced at Ray; although he was muscular I overpowered him easily and finished him off with my knife. I stood there surprised that I was strong enough to take him out that easily. Again the black globe showed up and this time I was accustomed to it, like I knew it was going to happen and was normal. I dumped his corpse and walked away to find the bucket and washcloth to clean the traces of blood.

    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    The next morning everyone was on the edge as five people were missing and there was stench of blood.

    ---Captain¡¯s POV---

    I woke up abruptly from my slumber by a loud voice outside my room. I cursed out and stood up to find the owner of the voice. I decided to give a trash him and make an example out of him. These pricks are getting more and more rowdy, once in a while you have to show them their place or there would be no end to the trouble they would bring.

    It was quite a commotion outside my room. As soon as I stepped out, frank came running towards me, He face was distorted in anguish and he spoke while out of breath.

    ¡°Captain Merlin, Ray and girls are nowhere to be found. We searched the entire Radius but it¡¯s like they have vanished without a trace and moreover there is a lingering stench of blood all over the place¡±

    ¡°What, What about the treasure room and provisions room, is anything gone from there?¡±I asked him in a hurried tone.

    I risked my life to plunder those things; it¡¯s more valuable then the lives of my crew.

    ¡°No captain, everything else is as usual, nothing is out of place¡± frank said.

    Right now my whole crew is standing before me and what I hear is that everybody was asleep and no one knew what happened. I am sure they were all killed by something or someone as there is still the smell of blood lingering in the air. After having killed so many, I can recognise it even from miles away. Philip was the last one to go to sleep and when he went to sleep everybody other than Merlin, Ray and the slave boy were there fast asleep.

    I am a little bit suspicious about the slave boy since he was awake along with Merlin and Ray, I asked him what he was doing and when did he went to sleep. He said he was cleaning the dishes and he went to sleep soon after Philip. I had one of my men check his pockets and there was nothing in it. He wouldn¡¯t be able to overpower both of my men; surprise attack wouldn¡¯t work against Ray as he has keen sense. I shift my gaze towards my other crew.

    Who is it?, has one of them became greedy and is killing others so as to get their hands on the loot. If so then why kill the girls. From what I know all my crew enjoys their company. It doesn¡¯t make sense, who is it and what is their motive. I have to be cautious, everybody looks suspicious. Right now the only thing I can do is to keep an eye on everyone.

    ¡°We should never have crossed the guandaur, I told frank to take another route. It¡¯s the Mermen I tell you, they crave blood and come in the silence of the night to prey upon unsuspecting humans.¡± One of my men said agitatedly.

    I glared at him angrily and yelled ¡°Fool, it was no Mermen, I will find out the culprit soon enough. For now you all are going to keep a look out in the night taking turns in a group of three, If you sense anything unusual alarm everyone in a loud voice¡±

    I still can¡¯t shake off the dreadful feeling, I feel like I am in some kind of trap with no escape. I have to get to the bottom of this and settle this as soon as possible.

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    I though I would not be able to post anything today, since I like to spend my Sunday leisurely and go out to eat with my family, yet here I am with another chapter and a longer one at that. I don''t know if my story is liked by someone but I''ll write till I am able to even if no one reads I will read it in future and have a laugh at my immaturity. The art for the cover is also done, it took longer than I expected but I am pleased with it. Will post it tomorrow if possible. Once again let me know if there are any mistakes and suggestions are always welcomed.

 04 Chapter

    I almost got myself caught. The captain¡¯s intuitions are frighteningly accurate. He is captain of the ship for a reason after all. It was stupid of me to think all these pirates were a bunch of barbarians with no brain, fortunately  hid the matchsticks and the paper I was carrying otherwise there would have been no way to reason with them.

    Everybody was at edge was extra careful today. It would have been nice if they believed the Mermen story and be done with. It¡¯s hard to act when everybody¡¯s on alert. The next day in the evening I was in the kitchen peeling vegetables for preparing soup when suddenly there was ruckus outside. I stepped out and saw everybody running and all over the place. It seems they are preparing for something, I spotted frank at the corner while he was carrying a bunch of swords, I strode towards him and asked what the commotion is about.

    It seems that they have spotted a merchant ship and are going to raid it. Frank passed everyone their choice of weapon; he also gave me a short sword and told me to keep it just in case. He went to the captain and discussed something with him; the captain gave an inquisitive look towards me and said something to frank. Frank then returned towards me and gave me the key to the provisions room.

    ¡°Since we are short on crew members, we all are going to engage with the enemy. You stay behind on Radius and bring out the barrels which are marked with danger sign. When the captain shouts fire, you should throw the barrel in the enemy¡¯s ship; we will take care of the rest. Don¡¯t screw this up or the captain will get mad¡± Frank said as he handed me the key.

    Radius was approaching the merchant ship and will catch up with it quickly. The pirates prepared themselves to mount an attack. I quickly formulated my plan; this probably going to be me only chance and I am not going to give up on it. I quickly gathered the hidden matchsticks and ran towards the provisions room. In front of me there were six barrels. I forced open the lid of five barrels and flipped the barrels then I poked a hole in the remaining barrel with my short sword, the gunpowder was slipping thought the hole I just made, I quickly made my way out with the barrel in hand dropping gunpowder all the way from the provisions room. Once out, I saw that the merchant¡¯s ship was hooked to the Radius by some ropes and the pirates were engaged in battle with the guards on the merchant ship. I kept the barrel down and started cutting down the ropes with my sword until there was only one rope that held together both the ships and it looked like it won¡¯t last long. I light the gunpowder with the matchstick and immediately bolted towards the merchant¡¯s ship.

    As I flung myself towards the merchant ship, I heard a loud explosion behind me. I abruptly landed in the merchant¡¯s ship, the rope that held together both the ships seems to have been snapped and I saw Radius slowly started to sink. There was enormous smoke raising out of it indicating that the ship was beyond salvage. I quickly focus my view to my new surroundings. I saw a lot of corpses both that of the pirates and the guards of the merchant ship. The captain was engaged with two guards and Frank was engaged with one, rest of the pirates were dead. It seems the explosion of the Radius which was practically their home gave them a shock and the guards probable took advantage of the moment and dealt a heavy blow to the pirates.

    I didn¡¯t waste a moment. I knew that the captain is a handful so I quickly proceeded in franks direction. The guard looked agitate when he saw me approaching and it seems he was barely fending off Frank¡¯s attack. I didn¡¯t care to explain anything to him as it will only confuse him. I quietly stood a few steps behind frank, he didn¡¯t notice me yet. I pounced at him aiming my sword at his back but Frank notice the surprise attack in the nick of time, he turned and kicked me with his right leg. I stumbled from the blunt force and fell on my butt, it should have hurt pretty bad, but I didn¡¯t felt any pain. I stood up and saw my sword jutting out of Frank¡¯s thigh, blood flowing freely from the deep wound. Frank look at me with anger, he was fuming with rage when he realised I betrayed them and had destroyed their ship.

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    The guard stood there looking at me in confusion. I motioned him to go help his comrades who were dealing with the Captain. He stood there for a moments and then seems to have realised something, he nodded at me and immediately ran in the direction of the Captain.

    ¡°You fucking runt, I should have disposed you off the moment Captain told me to, but I convinced the Captain that I will look after you and train you to be one of us.  We saved you and fed you and this is how you repay us. You backstabbing bastard¡± Frank yelled at me, he seems to be going insane in his rage.

    ¡°You saved me and fed me because you wanted a slave who you can order around. Rather than an ounce of camaraderie, I feel disgust towards you pirates who plunder, kill and rape innocent men, women and children without a hint of guilt. It sickens me to think that I ate the same food and slept in the same place as you filthy pigs¡± I hissed at him in anger.

    Frank pulled out the sword from his thigh with a scream and glared at me holding swords in both hands. I didn¡¯t have a weapon and going against frank barehanded is an invitation of death. I looked over to find anything that would aid me. There was a small wooden chair in the corner. I bolted towards the chair and grabbed it; frank followed me but was slow because of his wound. I flung the chair in his face and immediately pounced at him without a pause.

    The chair hit him on the face and he fell on the floor. I was already upon him that¡¯s when I realised that one of his swords was impaled on my shoulder. A sharp pain ran though my shoulder. Frank smirked at me and was about to stab me with the short sword, I ignored the pain and quickly grabbed the short sword with my other hand. I yanked the sword forcefully and the sword fell a few meters away from us. Blood dripped from both of my hands; I didn¡¯t flinch and without waiting bashed my fist against Frank nose with all my might. I continued to bash him without giving him a chance to act. I don¡¯t know how many times I bashed his face. I realised that Frank was dead the moment the black globe appeared; regardless I bashed his face a few more time. I pulled the sword out of my shoulder. Surprisingly blood stopped pouring out of my wound and I felt the pain lessen. I stood up and looked at the direction of the Captain. The Captain was also dead along with another guard. Two guards stood near his corpse covered in wounds looking at me. I can sense they are being cautious and contemplating whether I am an enemy or allay.

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    I screwed up something and have to repost the whole chapter. I am new to RR and still have a lot to learn to get around. I wrote a big afterward but now feel unmotivated and tire to write it again.

 05 Chapter

    One of the guard approached me carefully¡±I am the leader of the guards, my name is Brian, are you one of the pirates, if so why did you help us.¡±

    ¡°I am glad to meet you Mr. Brian; I am not one of them. They picked me up from one of the ships they plundered and I have been working as a slave ever since then. I don¡¯t remember anything about my past, probably because I was knocked out during the attack or something. I was waiting for a chance to get away from them and search for any clue as to my identity.¡± I told him with a serious face, I didn¡¯t mention that the pirates found me in the ocean as I don¡¯t think they will believe me.

    He told me to wait and went inside the ship. I stood along with the remaining guard, his name was Shane and he thanked me for helping him earlier. I nodded and asked him about the ship. The merchant ship seems to be one of the two ships returning from Levylon to Cleaveton. It is carrying spices, ores and ornaments, the other ship is eight days ahead and we will reach Cleaveton in about twenty five days. The ship is headed by Wyeth of the noble family of Pranthean and other ship is headed by his son Edmurd. Paranthean family is the third powerful noble family among the twelve noble families of Cleaveton and they hold a prominent share in trade industry of Cleaveton.

    As Shane was explaining things to me, a big fat bald man came out whom I assume to be the Noble Wyeth, Brian followed him behind. Wyeth looked at the wreckage and all the bodies.

    ¡°Why the hell did you bring these incompetent men, now I have to pay compensation to all their families¡± Wyeth yelled at Brain in anger.

    ¡°With respect sir, they were good men. The pirates were all strong and my men fought bravely¡± Brain said in a stern voice suppressing his own anger at the noble.

    ¡°Whatever, throw all the dead bodies, I don¡¯t want any excess luggage¡± He told Brain and was about to head inside when he noticed me. He asked Brain about me and Brain explained to him as I did. The noble didn¡¯t want to let me in on his ship and told Brain to take care of him but Brain reasoned that we are still in the danger zone and I am a competent fighter. The noble agreed reluctantly but said he didn¡¯t trust me. He told me that I ought to stay in the deck and never venture out to any other place without permission. I had to agree to the conditions as I didn¡¯t have a choice.

    A beautiful girl patched up my wounds. The girl looked simple but was pretty in her own way, she had beautiful blue eyes and had a sweet smell like that of a lavender. She never spoke a word to me the entire time. I wanted to talk to her but didn¡¯t know how to start the conversation and hence I sat there in silence as she treated my wounds. I was provided with a set of cloths which I assumed to be of the dead guards.

    My condition didn¡¯t improve much, I was a slave in the Pirates ship and now I am practically shunned like a prisoner in this ship, I have to stay in this ship for twenty five days, I sighed dejectedly.

    I was provided meals thrice a day, after being provided bread once a day in the pirate¡¯s ship this seemed like a luxury to me. Every time the pretty girl would being me the meals, I wanted to make a request for extra as the meals were tasty, but didn¡¯t do so as I thought that it would bring trouble to her. The noble seems to be a greedy bastard, he was already pissed off that he has to give me the same privileges as the guards.

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    By the next day the dead bodies and the repairs were taken care off. Shane joined me for dinner; again the pretty girl came to deliver us our meal. I looked at her as she was leaving in a thoughtful manner and contemplated her situation; surely she was not happy to be on this ship and wore a sad expression the entire two days. Shane notices me looking at the girl.

    ¡°Don¡¯t concern yourself with that girl, it will only bring you trouble¡± Shane cautioned me.

    I asked him about the girl but he didn¡¯t disclose anything. He said that the Brain went out of his way to convince the noble to treat me like a guard and release me without any paperwork upon entering Cleaveton and he didn¡¯t want me to mess up by meddling in affairs that doesn¡¯t concerns me. I was pissed off at him for thinking that I was at the mercy of the noble, yet I stayed silent as I know that I can¡¯t afford to offend anyone on board.

    After sometime Shane stood up to go to sleep, as he walked off I was able to see him clearly till he crossed the corridor. I realised for the first time that everything was clearly visible to me despite the darkness. This was one of the reasons I was easily able to dispose off both Merlin and Ray the other night. I also noticed that there was no pain from the wounds I received yesterday; I slowly took off my bandages and to my surprise not a single sing of the wound was visible on my shoulder. It¡¯s like I never received the wound.

    I sat there in the corner of the deck thinking about various things that happened and how my body was very unusual and there¡¯s that black globe which I know nothing about. From what I gather Both Brain and Shane didn¡¯t see the black globe when I killed frank leading me to believe that I was the only one capable of seeing it, but still I didn¡¯t know what it was and whether it had any effect on my body.

    As I was in deep thoughts, I notice a shadow emerging from inside the ship. I looked in its direction and realised that it was the pretty girl. What was she doing outside at this time of the night? I stood up and walked towards her to ask her if she needed help with something. She didn¡¯t notice me as I approached her. She climbed the wooded ridge of the ship and that¡¯s when I realised what she was about to do.

    I bolted towards her, grabbed her arm I pulled her down. It seems I put too much force and she fell on me. She was sobbing profusely and begged me to let her go. I gripped her arm tightly not intending to let her go. How can I let her jump in the ocean? I didn¡¯t know what her troubles and circumstances were but I cannot possibly let her kill herself. She sobbed, struggled and begged me to let her go but I kept my hold on her for almost half an hour. Finally she calmed down. It was an awkward situation; sure I wanted to talk to her but not like this.

    I told her that I would let her go only if she told me why she was throwing away her life. She looked at me hesitantly and then started telling me her story.

 06 Chapter

    Elena lived in levylon and unlike any other girl of her age; she had to constantly face bullying of her fellow classmates while protecting her little sister. Her father was a guard in levylon but he was killed in action a year ago. They were poor but getting by with their father¡¯s salary but after his death, her mother was burdened with financial problems. Her mother was pretty so she found work in a bar and they were barely making it. One day when Elena returned from her school along with her sister, she heard someone talking to her mother. She recognised him as the captain of the guards, she met him when her father took her to his training when she was little.

    ¡°We¡¯ll keep you happy and look after you like our wives. You already work at the bar and eventually you have to sell yourself to get by. It¡¯s it better this way¡± he said to his mother.

    ¡°Please leave, I am not that kind of women. Sure we are poor but by no means am I desperate enough to become a plaything for you or your men. You are the captain of my belated husband, do you have no empathy. Please leave us alone, we don¡¯t want anything to do with you¡± my mother said almost crying.

    Suddenly the man grabbed my mother¡¯s hands and pushed her on the floor ¡°You slut, the other day you were already showing your body with that skimpy dress to everyone at the bar. I took pity on you and offered to help you and you mock me. Who is going to marry a slut like you anyway who is parading half naked in the bar. You will sell yourself someday and you daughters will have to do the same. If you show us some favours then we will give you enough money so that you can lead a good life. Your daughters can go to school and can have a decent life.¡±

    My little sister upon seeing our mother pushed down, grabbed a bottle which was nearby and in a moment was upon the man. A loud crash and blood started to drip from the man¡¯s head. He cursed and stood up to look at his assaulter. Upon seeing that it was my little sister he slapped her hard and my sister fell a few feet away from him unconscious. I immediately ran and embraced my sister fearing what the man would do to her. He came towards me with rage in his eyes and I was very afraid of what was about to happen, just then an old man who was our neighbour came into our house.

    ¡°Hellen are you alright, I heard a loud noise...¡±He stopped midway as he look at us as he seems to have understood the situation.

    ¡°To think a guard who is suppose to protect us would do such horrible acts against children, I wonder what would the royal family do on hearing such atrocities¡± the old man said looking the captain in the eye.

    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business old man. Leave this place, I am sure you have your own family to look after¡± The Captain said.

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    ¡°When our protectors turn against us, we have to take it upon ourselves to uphold justice. If we become afraid and run with our tails then who would protect us.¡± The old man said and grabbed a log besides him. He then shouted with all his might to alert other.

    The captain took a knife and stabbed the old man in the chest. Due his age the old man was not fast enough to evade the attack. The captain withdrew the kinfe from the old man¡¯s chest and then threw the knife at my mother¡¯s feet.

    ¡°An innocent life has been wasted. Look what you have done; you brought doom upon your entire family.¡± He said and the bolted outside.

    My mother was stunned for a moment but quickly gathered herself. She immediately went to the kitchen and took out a pouch, and then she came to me and took my sister in her arms. She grabbed my arm and pulled me. I have never run in my entire life like that night. Time passed by and still we ran till my legs gave away. I still clearly remember that day, my mother cried all night cuddling both me and my little sister as we lay underneath a big tree. The next day we walked till a small village came in sight.

    It was small village surrounded by thick forest. We were led to the chief¡¯s house. The village chief was an old man and he lived with his wife. They took us in after my mother told them the entire story. They seem to have had a daughter who was killed during a bandied raid so they gladly took my mother in as she reminded them of her. The old women were very kind to us and she would occasionally tell me that if she had a granddaughter she would be my age. I felt sorry for her but grateful that they took us in. My mother took care of the elderly couple and worked in their farm. I started looking after their cattle and in the evening I would study medicine under grandmother. My little sister went to a small school where all the kids of the village go. We were happy again with our new life until that fateful day.

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    Yesterday I caught a cold and was unable to write anything. I got a little better in the morning after taking medicine but as my mom insisted on me taking rest I was only able to write a shot chapter. I may write another chapter again in 5 hours. Anyways If you like my story please comment as it will motivate me to write especially when I am feeling sick. Hope you guys like the story and once again let me know of any mistakes and suggestions are always welcomed

    I noticed a lot of mistakes when I reread the chapter again. I corrected the mistakes now.

 07 Chapter

    ----------- Edmurd of the noble family of Pranthean pov -----------

    It¡¯s been five days since me and my father came to Levylon, unlike our city this place has a lot of goods making it a trade heaven but unlike Cleaveton there are not many good brothels here. I am setting sail day after tomorrow as I have concluded all my part of transactions while my father¡¯s ship will leave later. I am to be married to Cristina of the Fedrich family next month so my father wanted me to go ahead of him as to see to the wedding preparations, Cristina is as fat as a pig and I hate her but tying up with her family will make our position strong in Cleaveton so I am not against it. Father said I can have as many concubines as I want after the marriage so there is no issue in marry a fat pig in name.

    Today I was having a chat with father and the captain of the guards of Levylon who is good friend of my father, the captain suggested that we go for hunting out in the forest outside Levylon. I and my father along with some of our guards and the captain set off on our horses to hunt. The forest was quite a distance from Levylon but I must say it was abundant in animals. I am quite skilled in the bow and I alone caught a fox and a two deers. We caught three deers, a fox and a bear in total. I saw the bushes shake in a distance and shot my arrow towards it. A small scream came from there and I bolted in the direction of the sound. What I saw was a beautiful girl with long brown hair and beautiful eyes she looked to be about fifteen years of age, yet she had a charm of a beauty. She had a little basket in her arm in which there were different types of leaves.

    My arrow was struck in the hem of her dress and she was pulling it out without success. I went towards her and pulled the arrow effortlessly. She looked at me and then behind me where my father and the guards stood. She tried to leave immediately upon seeing the guards, I grabbed her hand. She struggled to pull her hand but I held it tightly.

    ¡°What¡¯s your name and what are you doing in the forest?¡± I asked her.

    ¡°My name is Elena and I am gathering herbs in the forest¡± She said hurriedly.

    I released her hand and she took off immediately. I started walking back towards my father.

    ¡°Looks like you let your prey run, my son¡± My father said.

    I was contemplating whether to follow the girl to know where she lived when the Captain said ¡°If you are interested in that girl, I can get her for you. See it as a token of appreciation and a gift for our future transactions¡±

    He motioned one of my guards to go after her and find out where she lives. We decided to take rest for a bit and then follow the guard.

    ----------- Elena¡¯s POV------------------

    I ran as fast as my legs would take me. My mother always cautioned me to look out of guards and merchants from Levylon. Today I was very stupid, not only did I get spotted by some guards I even gave them my real name in fear. I was running so fast the herbs I collected dropped on the way, I didn¡¯t care about it though as all I had in mind was that I had to get home as fast as possible and tell mom about it.

    After half an hour I entered the village, I spotted my mom working in the field and immediately went to narrate the events. My mom had a horrified look on her face, she immediately led me to our home and started packing things. The old man and women came to us after hearing the ruckus and my mom explained them what I said. The old women went to get my little sister as we were packing things.

    A few minutes later the guards approached our village. The old man went to great them.

    ¡°Bring out the girl who was in the forest¡± One of the guard said to the village chief.

    ¡°We don¡¯t know which girl you are talking about, no one from this village goes alone to the forest as it is dangerous¡± the chief said to them.

    ¡°Bring the girl outside; she stole something from our young master who is on his way. If you don¡¯t bring her out we will tore down the entire village in order to find her. The young master is a guest of Levylon and steeling things from him amounts to treason as it would dampen our trade relationship with other nation¡± he said threateningly.

    ¡°I still don¡¯t know which girl you are talking about, this is nothing but a small village and there is no one here who would steal things belonging to others. We live happily and peacefully here. So please go back, if you want I can come along with you to talk to the lord of Levylon and then if the lord investigates and it is true then we will pay any compensation that you may require¡± the old man said with a cold voice.

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    ¡°Too bad you are opting for violence, as a chief you know better than anyone that it is not worth to save a girl at the cost of entire village¡± the guard hissed.

    Then he suddenly took his sword and put it at the neck of the chief and said ¡°I give you thirty seconds and if the girl doesn''t show up then we will consider that the whole village rebelled and take action¡±

    Upon seeing that the chief was in danger my mother ran towards him and I followed her behind.

    I stood besides the chief along with my mother when other guards and the guy I saw in the forest came riding in their horses. My mother suddenly stiffened her arms and looked agitated when I looked in her direction I spotted the man who was responsible for our misfortunes.

    ¡°Well well what do we have here? It¡¯s no wonder the girl is a thief, her mother is a wanted criminal after all¡± the captain said with a smirk.

    My mother¡¯s eyes were filled with rage ¡°It was you who killed him and framed me for the murder, you bastard¡± my mother yelled at him.

    ¡°Well, you see only those who are guilty run away. I have already got an execution order in your name as you have committed not one but three murder¡± the captain said calmly.

    Tears were falling out of my mother¡¯s eyes as she knew that there was no escape from this monster. He has already brought so many guards. If we tried to escape not only will we lose our life but many of the villagers will be slaughtered as well.

    Just then the man who shot the arrow at me in the forest stepped out in the front ¡°Now, now captain don¡¯t be so harsh on the women after all she killed the old man in self defence otherwise she would have been defiled by the old man and other murders were to hide the witnesses. I understand her situation and empathies for her, after all she is a mother of two young daughters and it¡¯s a lot of burden to carry for a single woman¡±

    ¡°If you say so young master, but surely you cannot let them be as we have to overlook not one but two crimes¡± The captain said pretending to be stern.

    ¡°People commit crime when they are desperate and want to survive, nevertheless you are correct captain. There should be some form of compensation so as to remind them not to go against law in the future¡± The man said nodding his head.

    ¡°I hear that your husband was a loyal guard, Freddie here is one of my loyal guards. I owe my life to him as he has saved me many times. Freddie was smitten with the beauty of your daughter and wants to marry her. I already promised him that I would convince you for the union and I don¡¯t go back on my promises. If you agree to it we might overlook your situation as an act of mercy on our side¡± he said to my mother with a bright smile.

    My mother stood there motionless, I knew there was no hope for our situation. These men were not giving us a choice. The young man then came towards me and grabbed my hand was dragging me with him. My mother grabbed my other hand pulling me towards her.

    ¡°Get you filthy hands off my daughter¡± She said with anger in her voice.

    Suddenly the young man slapped my mother hard and as she fell he said ¡°I am Edmurd, a noble of Pranthean family, I shall not stand any insolence towards me. Not from the whore who sells herself in the bars¡±

    My mother was sobbing profusely where she fell. I also started crying along with my mother, anger, grief, disgust; fear all emotions going through my mind. He dragged me along with him and we took off from the village. I cried myself to unconsciousness in midway.

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    Well here''s an extra long chapter for the day. I stayed up quite a bit late to complete this chapter and my mother is practically screaming at me to go to sleep. She thinks I am possessed by the laptop I am using as I stay at it all day long. lol can''t blame her though as her son is spending more time with a machine rather than her. Anyways if there is any mistake do let me know and your comments might motivate me put extra efforts in the story so yeh... tell me if you like it.

 08 Chapter

    Elena¡¯s POV cont.....

    When I woke up I found myself inside a room. There was only one bed and nothing else in the room, I stood up and tried to open the door but it seems to be locked. I looked out through the window and could see the streets filled with people; I guessed I was in levylon. I tried calling out to someone but there were no response, so I sat on the bed contemplating what my life would be like from now on. As I recall all the guards came back with me, so I can be rest assured that my mom and sister are safe for now.

    I would have to marry the guard of the person who took me with him; at least it¡¯s not a guard of levylon, I guess I just have to accept my fate. I detest guards of Levylon for what my mother had to go through because of them. I can¡¯t help but sob as I recall my mother and my little sister. I don¡¯t know if I would be able to see them again. I hope they stay safe and lead a happy life. As I was in deep thoughts, the door opened and the guard named Freddie came inside with a tray filled with food and fruits. ¡°The young master has ordered us to provide you anything you need. Please ask us anything that you may need.¡± He said and left the tray on my bed.

    I checked the door again after the he left and it was locked. I looked at the food which seemed to be of high quality, the fruits were even nicely wrapped in a transparent plastic cover to keep it clean. I couldn¡¯t get myself to eat the food because every time I looked at it, the sight of the man slapping my mother came in my view. I felt immense hatred for the man; I took the plate and threw it out of the window. Why was my mom subjected to ridicule of these vile men and they even dare to abuse my mom, I will never forgive them for that.

    Freddie returned again in ten minutes ¡°You threw the food out and that too of the finest quality. Good thing the young master has left Levylon otherwise he would be really mad. I advise you to keep in mind the situation you are in. Any act of defiance will not be tolerated by the young master. He has a bad temper¡± he said as he closed the door.

    It¡¯s now been eight days since I was forced to depart my village. Every day the guard would being me food, I threw the food for two day but one the third day I was unable to bear the hunger and ate the food although I threw away the expensive fruits which were provided along with the meals. On eighth day I was led to a ship by four guards.

    A big fat bald man came up to me and said that I would work as a maid on the ship till we reach Cleveton. I came to know that he was Wyeth of the noble family of Pranthean and father of the man who slapped my mother. I composed my anger and followed Freddie as he led me to the kitchen. He then gave instruction and the list of duties I have to perform. I had to prepare meals and was in charge of cleaning the place. I looked for a chance to escape but was always surrounded by the guards and the ship crew.

    It¡¯s been seven day since we set sail from Levylon, by now I was totally accustomed to my role as a maid. I was a hard worker in the village and hence I had no problem in executing the duties assigned to me. I was cooking as usual today, when I hear loud voices coming from above. I made myself to the deck to see what was happening. What I saw was total chaos; all the guards were fighting with some rough looking men. The rough looking men were strong and few guards were already killed. I spotted Freddie as one of dead guard but for better or for worse I felt relieved that he was killed, now there was no reason for me to be here and I can go back to my mother.

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    As I was watching the attack a loud explosion rang out, I panicked and ran towards the kitchen. I hid myself underneath the table. I recalled the blood and gore of the dead guards again and started to throw up, before I was happy that Freddie was dead and didn¡¯t realise the amount of blood and gore all around the deck. But as I recalled it now; I was overtaken by the feeling of dread, will I also die today like the guards. I covered my ears, closed my eyes and stayed in the same position without moving a muscle.

    After what seemed like a long time someone patted me on the shoulder. I looked in that direction with a terrified look.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry its over. Out ship was attacked by the pirates but they have been taken care of now¡± the leader of the guards assured me.

    He then told me carry the first aid box to the deck and treat the injured men. When I went back to the deck I could see that only one other guard had survived and a lot of corpses littered on the deck. The guard had only some small injuries and I helped him patch up his wounds. When I was about to leave the guard said that there was another injured person in the quarterdeck.

    I went to the quarterdeck and saw a person sitting. He was a handsome young man but looked somewhat rough like the pirates with messy hair and torn cloths. I didn¡¯t saw him in the past seven days leading me to believe he was one of the pirates; but why would the guard ask me to treat their enemy, I contemplated whether he was also a prisoner just like me as I went near him. I was taken aback by the smell of blood and gunpowder on him but approached him nonetheless. He had two nasty wounds, one in the left shoulder and one in the right hand. Both wounds were deep, I imagined the pain he must be going through and suppressed the urge to puke. I treated him carefully so as to not agitate his wounds. It would take months for the wounds to heal completely. After patching him up I went towards the kitchen to cook again.

    The next morning I woke up the guards and the crew were busy disposing off the corpses and fixing things that were broken. I served breakfast to everyone and found the guy with the wound standing at the edge looking at the ocean as I brought him breakfast, he seemed to be a little bit better now. He felt really excited upon seeing me approach him; I was quite confused of his behavior. He almost snatched the plate out of my hand when I gave it to him and he immediately stated eating it hastily. It reminded me of the hungry stray dogs I used to give leftover in Levylon when my father was still alive. I guess he was just excited to eat the food as he was hungry, I wonder what must he have been through to be so happy just by seeing some food.

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    I wrote a big chapter today, but midway i realised that the word count was much higher than for a single chapter so I broke it into two chapters. I will post another chapter in an hour today. I think I would take Sunday off so there may or may not be a chapter on that day. Hope you like the chapter. Please let me know of any mistakes and suggestions are always welcomed. Comment if you like the story as it would motivate me to write.

 09 Chapter

    Elena¡¯s POV cont.....

    After serving dinner to everyone and finishing all my chores. I went to see noble Wyeth to talk to him. I entered his room as he was counting gold coins. Upon seeing me enter he immediately hid the golden coins in his desk as if I would steal his gold.

    ¡°Sir, Now that Freddie has died, I can no longer marry him. Can I go back to my village? I am grateful for you for taking care of me all these days but I want to return to my home.¡± I said softly as to convince him to agree to my request.

    ¡°What are you saying? Didn¡¯t Freddie tell you before? It makes things easier now that he has died. My son has taken an interest in you and wants to take you as a concubine as soon as he gets married next month. You will serve him as he pleases and also work as a maid in his house.¡±The fat man said with a straight face.

    I was horrified on hearing it. Marrying the guard was one thing, but becoming a concubine of the man I detest the most. I cannot make myself to go through it no matter what. Every time I look at him, it will remind me of the sight of my mom¡¯s crying after he slapped her.

    Tears started dropping from my chin ¡°But... But he said that I am to be married to Freddie. No one told me anything about being a concubine of the young master. I didn¡¯t agree to it. Please let me return to my village, I beg of you¡±

    The old man started walking slowly towards me. He stood in front of me looking at me lecherously.

    ¡°Now that I see you up close, I agree that my son has a nice choice in women. You are indeed beautiful, with big bosoms and good bottom¡± He said stocking my buttocks.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since I visited the brothel in Levylon. I would like to sample the goods before my son takes you as his concubine. Be a nice girl and if you satisfy me enough then I can arrange for you to meet your family once in a while¡± he said gripping my buttock with his hand.

    I was thoroughly repulsed by this despicable old pig. I couldn¡¯t bare his advances and pushed him away from me with all my strength. He tripped and fell on his bottom and due to his big belly had difficulty standing up.

    As he was making an effort to stand up, he started me angrily. ¡°You wrenches won¡¯t learn unless you get a good beating. I will make sure you pay dearly for your defiance. After me and my son have used you to our hearts content, I will give you to my men. Then I will take you to your family and tell your mother to trade places if she wants to save you. I am sure seeing her battered daughter will move your mother to agree.¡±

    I was over came with horror as I realised that the old pig was serious and angry. I didn¡¯t know what to do. Not only they were planning to ruin me but my mother has to suffer along with me. I knew these men have neither morals nor sympathy for others, but I never knew that they were scheming against us all along.

    There was no hope left for me, I made up my mind and quickly ran towards the deck. If my mother didn¡¯t see me then she would never believe these people. I realised that I will be held as a hostage against my mother and she would again have to suffer for my sake. I ran towards the ledge and was about to jump into the ocean to end my sufferings just then a hand grabbed me and I fell on him.

    I open my eyes and saw that it was the person whose wounds I treated yesterday. He gripped my hand tightly and didn¡¯t let go of me. I begged him crying to let me go but he didn¡¯t. He held on to me for a few minutes and as I calmed down a little he said that he would let me go only if I told him why I was throwing away my life. I looked at him hesitantly and then told him my entire story.

    --------------MC¡¯s POV-------------------

    I heard her entire story intently. As I learned more and more about her, I grew angry towards these men. To do such things to these helpless women especially when she made such delicious food for them, it was unforgivable. When she told me about the last part about how the old noble tried to force her, I was fuming with rage. I let go of her arm. I took the knife out of my pocket and hand it to her.

    ¡°Take this knife and keep it with you just in case. You don¡¯t have to suffer anymore. I will try to get you to your mother, so promise me that you will not think of killing yourself anymore¡± I said to her handing over the knife.

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    She looked at me hesitantly. I took off my bandages and show her my body. She was surprised that there were no wounds on my body.

    She gasped and asked ¡°A.. Are you a mage?¡± in a low voice

    I told her that I didn¡¯t know and that I lost my memories. I took her hand and led her to the noble¡¯s room. She was reluctant to come to the noble¡¯s room still doubting my capabilities.

    I banged the door with all my strength and it flew open. I saw the old pig writing something in his desk. I was filled with rage upon seeing him and threw myself on him. I planned to take him hostage and use him as an aid for our escape, as I didn¡¯t have enough strength to overpower two guards and the entire crew. Upon seeing me suddenly intrude in his room the old pig was trying to take something out from his desk, I grabbed him by the shoulder and threw him at Elena¡¯s feet. Then I shouted her to stab him in the arm but she was unable to bring herself to do it. I grabbed the sword lying besides the desk and approached the terrified man. I tried to stab him in the arms when I felt some strong force preventing me from harming him. The sword stopped a few inches before him and refused to budge even when I applied my full strength.

    The old pig looked at me and started laughing ¡°Hahaha.. you think it would be easy to kill me. I Wyeth of the noble family of Pranthean cannot be killed by measly peasants like you. I would make sure that both you and this wrench suffer a fate worse than death and both your families will suffer the same fate. After I am through with you, you would wish to have never rebelled against me¡± he continued his mad laughter.

    All the crew and the guards came running after hearing the loud voices. They were standing at the door looking at the sight before them. After hearing his words my rage rose to new height, I lost sight of all others before me and my eyes were clouded with pure rage and vengeance. I didn¡¯t know what was happening; I threw myself upon him and grabbed him and lifted him above me as if on ingrained instinct, immediately black flame started to sprout all over his body and the old pig squealed in agony. He started screaming so loudly that it could be heard thought the ship. Slowly his skin started to melt showing his muscles and by this point his stopped screaming and seems to be dead. The muscles further melted till only bone remained and in a moment the bones turned to ashes till nothing else remained of once a noble called Wyeth.

    All the spectators stood there horrified at the scene that transpired before their eyes. I didn¡¯t know what came over me and was all the more confused and horrified as everybody else. I regained my composure and was able to see clearly again. I quickly grabbed the girl and said in a loud voice ¡°There is only so much patience a pirate can have. Initially I planned to snatch the valuables upon arriving at Cleaveton and run way, but this son of a bitch was getting on my nerve. I have changed my plans, I am taking the valuables now and also I have taken a liking to this girl so she would come with me. Anyone who stands in my way would become nothing but cinder.¡±

    I told them to turn our course to the nearest land and the crew complied. I took the map from them and see if they were trying to outsmart me and found that they were not. It¡¯s seems they were terrified of me and valued their own lives. I took gold, jewels and a red gem which the old man was trying to reach when I came bursting into the room . I guessed that it was some type of defensive mechanism and old pig was desperately trying to reach the gem upon sensing danger. I also took the sword, bow and arrows that were in the room and made myself on the dock again.

    I was able to see land after few hours and was overjoyed as it was the first time I saw land after waking up. I grabbed Elena and proceed to get down from the ship. I lied to the crew and the guards that I am capable of long ranged magical attacks and if I sense anyone doing something I will attack them without holding back.

    Brain and Shane stood helplessly looking at me in anger as I had betrayed them. But I didn¡¯t care; clearly they knew the position of the girl but still choose to stay salient even when a terrible fate awaited her. The thing that put me off was that Shane even warned me against helping her, right now I would not hold back even against these two. What is the purpose of a guards life if not to bring justice to the oppressed.

    I walked away from the ship pretending to drag Elena away as everyone on board watched us.

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    This is the second chapter that I posted this day as I had extra time and wrote a little bit longer than usual. Hope you like it.

 10 Chapter

    We walked the whole day taking short rest once in a while. Earlier on the merchant ship, I pretended to be a pirate and killed a noble; looted his treasure and kidnapped Elena, so it¡¯s safe to assume that the noble family of Paranthean will be after me and not Elena and her family. Right now we are travelling through Katmiria planes; there is nothing but grass everywhere I see. Occasionally we come across wild animals, who were so involved with their food that they ignored us and continued to chew on the grass.

    I checked the map again to make sure we were on the right track. At the edge of the plane there is a small village and after there is a mountain range, then another village followed by a large forest, if we follow the edge of the forest we will come across Levylon but I preferred to avoid Levylon for obvious reasons. Hence I decided that we would go through the forest to reach Elena¡¯s village, It¡¯s a bit dangerous as there are beast know to linger all over the forest but if we are careful we can avoid them.

    I was so keen on keeping an eye out and checking our direction that I didn¡¯t talk to Elena the entire time. Elena was walking behind me carry food and other stuff. I could still see hesitance in her eyes along with a little bit of fear. I don¡¯t blame her though, I was also afraid when I saw myself turning a man into dust. I am still not sure what happened back there, if possible I would like to keep an eye out and be safe rather than rely on that power. I don¡¯t even know how to activate it as it happened instinctively. As we crossed nearly half the plains sun started to set. I motioned to Elena that we would camp out near a big rock. We both settled down placing our baggage against the rock.

    I gathered the small dried sticks lying nearby and started the fire, as if on cue Elena unpacked her bag and gathered materials to make broth for us to eat. I watched her as she was making the broth; this is the first time I have seen her up-close for so long. I can¡¯t help but think why the noble got interested in her. She is indeed beautiful, her long brown silky hair hung upto her thighs and she had these alluring big blue eyes coupled with those eyelashes made her even more beautiful in the full moon light. There are many things beautiful in the world like butterflies, birds and even animals but that does not mean we should plunder those beauty with force. It will lose its attractiveness if forced, caged and treated with ill will. As I pondered over these things Elena looked at me, I quickly averted my eyes embarrassed at being caught looking at her.

    She cleared her voice and said that the broth was ready. She brought one bowl for me, took another bowl for herself and sat across me.

    ¡°This is very good, I am really fortunate to get to eat this stuff¡± I said trying to lighten the mood. She didn¡¯t respond and continued to chew on the vegetables.

    I again opened my mouth to reassure her ¡°When I said earlier that didn¡¯t know anything about my past, I was telling the truth. Honestly I don¡¯t know how I did that to the noble. I don¡¯t know if I am capable of doing it again. So it will be better if we are careful on our way. I also don¡¯t know if I am mage or anything else, the only thing I know is that my body is not like other people¡±

    She looked at me and nodded then said ¡°Thank you for saving me back then, if not for you I would have lost my life. If possible I would repay your kindness someday.¡± She said casting her eyes on the fire deep in thought.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s ok. I didn¡¯t save you in order to get a reward or something. If you were in my position I am sure you would have done the same, besides you treated my wounds and serve me good food. I am truly grateful for that, you don¡¯t have to feel that you are in my debt¡± I said hurriedly not wanting to concern her.

    ¡°No, I did those things because I was told to and it was part of my duty as a servant of the noble. You offended them and even went through the trouble of making yourself their enemy by declaring that you were plundering their things like a pirate. They would surely come after you. You took such a risk for my sake. I cannot be so shameless to deny the kindness shown to me by my saviour.¡± She said feeling troubled.

    If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    I scratched my head not knowing what to say in such a situation then I said ¡°If you really feel that way, then I will allow you to repay me. I love the food you make, it¡¯s so delicious and I feel like doing my best as long as I look forward to eating it again. Why don¡¯t you make me food till we reach your village? I will consider it as a settlement of your debt.¡±

    ¡°Even without your request I would cook food as we are journeying together. But it will still not clear my debt towards you, please stay in our village as a guest for as long as you like. I would like to do that much to show my appreciation¡± she said hopefully.

    ¡°Ok, that¡¯s settled then. I would take rest for a while in your village before heading out. Hearing that sure motivates me to make it to your village faster.¡± I assured her with a smile on my face.

    ¡°May I know your name? It¡¯s difficult to address you without knowing your name¡± she asked me after a moment.

    ¡°I don¡¯t even know what my name is. But yeh you are right, why don¡¯t you think of some name. I wouldn¡¯t mind having a new name until I gain my memories back¡± I said to her hopefully.

    She paused for another moment ¡°Is it alright for me to suggest a name? I like the name Cleon, before my sister was born that¡¯s the name me and my father decided if my mother had a boy¡± she looked visibly sad as she said that, I guess she still has not recovered over the loss of her father.

    ¡°Cleon..hum.. I like it. Ok it¡¯s decided then. You can call me Cleon¡± I said in a happy tone. I am sure anybody would be delighted in having a beauty naming them. She said that it was meant if she had a brother, I didn¡¯t like the sound of that. But it¡¯s a nice name though so I agreed to it.

    ¡°You sleep first and I will keep a lookout  and after a few hours I will wake you up before taking a nap myself¡± I told her and stood up, climbing the big rock I sat above it keeping a look out.

    Elena went to sleep soon after and the fire died out eventually. I could still see in the darkness as clear as in the day. I was surprised many a times over the few days at the capabilities of my body. Could I really be a mage like Elena said or a well trained knight, perhaps I was actually a pirate to begin with. Someday I would find out for sure, my mysterious identity.

    After a few hours I went towards Elena to wake her and ask her to be on guard. I hesitate for a moment but nonetheless woke her up after considering the fact that I had to sleep in order to effectively keep an eye out throughout the journey tomorrow.

    Elena went a few meters away from me to stay as a guard and sat there. I guess she didn¡¯t want to disturb my sleep. I lay on the grass with my eyes closed waiting for sleep to overtake my consciousness.

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    Back after the weekend with another chapter. Weekend would be family time and hence there won''t any chapters as I won''t be writing on those days. But I try to write as much as possible on the weekdays.

 11 Chapter

    The next morning we woke up earlier and started our journey. Elena became a little comfortable around me after we talked last night, we chatted as we walked, Elena told me about her family and friends and other things about Levylon. Time passed by and we cleared the plains and entered the long mountain ranges. The mountains were tall covered with lot of trees and plants. Night came once again and we decided to rest for the day.

    We took turns sleeping again. In the middle of the night Elena woke me up. She looked terrified and told me that she heard a few screams coming from a distance. I listened and could hear them clearly. I told her to stay put, gave her the red gem for protection and quickly proceeded towards the direction of the screams. It led me towards a well hidden cave, if not for my keen senses I wouldn''t have been able to find the cave. I cautiously proceeded into the cave, once inside I slowly moved towards the light and the screams grew louder. I positioned myself carefully and observed the scenes before me. There were three silhouettes of men standing near a glowing circle. In the middle of the circle there were fresh corpses of two kids. In the corner of the cave there were twelve children of various age bound by rope. Some were crying and some were screaming for their parent¡¯s. Of the three men, only one was holding a knife and the other two were holding a book reciting something from it.

    I formulated a plan to take out these men. I went near the entrance of the cave, gathered a few big rocks lying nearby and threw them towards my original position with force. Sound of rock colliding rung out and after a few seconds, the man holding the knife came out looking for the cause of the sound. I slept on my belly so as to blend in the darkness and as soon as he came within a few steps towards me, I extended the knife and swiped at his leg. His legs gave out and he fell before me. I grabbed his hand in which he held his knife and stabbed him in the stomach with my knife, he gave out a loud scream and with a few struggle it was over.

    I grabbed his knife and bolted inside the cave, wielding a knife in each hand. Just as I expected the men holding the book came running outside. As soon as I saw them, I threw both the knives with full force towards them. One knife impaled a man below the neck and he was killed instantly while the other knife was lodged in the arm of other man. He recited something and flames started erupting from thin air towards me. I jumped out of its range but could not doge it completely. My left arm was engulfed in flames and it was burned. I felt a sharp pain in my left arm; I ignored the pain and sprang on the man who was in the middle of reciting something again. Before he could finish reciting it, I was upon him and strangled him with my right hand. He struggled and tried to push me away but I had superior strength and hence he could not shake me off. After a few moments of struggle his limbs gave out and he lay there motionless. I stood up looking at my arm. The damage was really awful. I could smell the burnt flesh, the smell made me throw up.

    I gathered the books and the knives and made my way towards Elena. I considered going towards the kids but I was in bad condition, so I thought it is best to get Elena to approach them. I made back safely and saw Elena standing in the same spot. On seeing me with a limp shoulder she came running towards me. She was shocked when she saw the burnt flesh, proceeded to give fist aid and bound my arm completely with bandages. I felt pain subside as numbness took over my left arm. I told her about the kids and led her towards the cave.

    Once inside the cave Elena was visibly shaken on seeing the corpses of the two kids, she unbounded the sobbing and screaming kids and upon seeing her untying them they calmed down a little but were still afraid of us. Elena assured them that we meant no harm and proceeded to ask them what happened here. The group of kids were playing in the river outside their village when the three men attacked them. The killed the five adults who were with the kids and led them to this cave. It¡¯s been two days since they came to this cave and today the men drew up a circle in the middle of the cave and killed two of the kids while reciting some prayer. I looked up the bizarre circle which stopped glowing by now. It was drawn with human blood.

    The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    Elena introduced me and herself to the kids and told them not to worry and that we would help them get to their village. She then treated their minor injuries and we left the cave and came towards our original resting place. The kids were starving as they had not eaten since they were captured. Elena started making broth for them in the middle of the night. Although we were short on supplies, I did not voice my compliant as the lives of the kids took priority. I sat there in the corner looking at the kids wolfing down the food served to them. After eating the food Elena told them to take rest and that we would leave for their village first thing in the morning. I took out the recently acquired the two books and look at them, they were both identical. Some weird symbols and words were written in them. I understood the words but not the symbols. It was some kind of demonic book. One of the kids came towards me; I saw that it was the oldest girl of the group. On seeing her I pocked the two books for later inspection. She sat a few spaces away besides me.

    ¡°Thank you for saving us back there. My name is Grace and I am the granddaughter of the chief of our village¡± Grace said looking at me.

    ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you Grace. I am sorry that I didn''t make it sooner. Those two kids could have been saved if I had come a little earlier¡± I said to her. She seems to be around fourteen years old but mature enough to talk sincerely, maybe it¡¯s because she was the chief¡¯s granddaughter. Being burned with responsibilities sure makes one grow up fast.

    She looked at my arm and said ¡°I am sad that those two had to lose their lives, but others are safe now. I am glad that we were saved. Does it hurt much?¡±

    ¡°It was pure hell when the flesh was burning, but after Elena patched me up the pain has subsided considerably. You don¡¯t need to be concerned about me. You have to look out for yourself and your friends till we reach your village.¡± I said trying to change to topic. I am sure that my wound will heal within a day or two and didn''t know what to tell this kid if she asked how it healed so quickly.

    ¡°You should go rest with your friends now, we are leaving early in the morning¡± I told her. She stood up and went to sleep.

    After a few minutes most of the kids were asleep from exhaustion and the rest were trying to sleep. Elena came towards me and sat beside me. She told me to take rest, I protested but she wouldn¡¯t listen and insisted that I take a nap. I realised that the kids were being disturbed by our argument, hence agreed to her reluctantly.

 12 Chapter

    For the next two days we crossed the mountain ranges. Our food stock was over and I hunted down two deer, A few small kids refused to eat it. They started crying when I started to peal the skin of the deer. Elena and Grace both did a great job parenting the kids and made them eat it, telling them that the deer-san gave their meet to provide nourishment and without it they would not able to meet their parents again. I studied the demonic book a little when I was alone and found out that the men who kidnapped the kids were trying to summon a demon called Baal by sacrificing the kids. Demons cannot take physical form in this world, the only way for a demon to exist is by taking possession of a body as a vessel. In turn the demon will merge with the vessel¡¯s soul giving the body immense power. Then the demon will sustains itself by consuming others soul whenever it becomes hungry. The soul is converted into energy which the demon consumes, such consumed soul ceases to exist and can never be reborn into this world. I burned one of the books because it was exact replica of the other, after all it¡¯s a burden to carry two books which are exactly the same.

    Today being the third day, I was leading the group as usual when I heard some sound in a distance. I motioned everybody to stay and went to inspect the sound. What I saw was a group of men cutting down the plants as they made their way through the mountain. I didn¡¯t know if they were enemies or not, so I didn¡¯t approach them and observed them from a distance. There were six men and one old woman among them. I tried to get closer when suddenly the old women¡¯s voice rang out in alarm

    ¡°Who is there, show yourself or we will have to attack¡± The old women said in a loud voice.

    I was surprised that the old women could sense me even when I was well hidden. I contemplated fighting them, but I was outnumbered not to mention that I had Elena and the kids to protect. I cannot afford to offend these men.

    ¡°Please do not attack, I am coming out. I mean no harm¡± I said hurriedly making myself out of the bushes.

    ¡°Who are you and why were you following us?¡± The old women said looking at me. The men took an offensive stance on seeing me coming out of the bushes.

    ¡°I am just a traveler. I was passing through the mountains, when I heard some noise and came to inspect. I didn¡¯t mean to spy, it¡¯s just that seeing you all carrying weapons I was unsure whether I stumbled upon a bandit group?¡± I said while walking forward.

    ¡°How rude, branding us as a group of bandit¡¯s. Spot check him, he looks suspicious¡± One of the men holding a worn out spear said to his comrade.

    The man named Spot came towards me. I again contemplated whether to resist but gave up on the idea because I didn¡¯t know their capabilities and engaging with multiple enemies without proper equipment is unwise.

    I let spot check my pockets and bag. Just as I predicted he took out the demon book from my bag and exclaimed ¡°He has a demonic book!¡± and immediately pushed me on the ground.

    Before I could do anything two other men came and suppressed me to the ground with force.

    The old women came in front of me and said ¡°Where are the children. Tell us and we will make your death less painful¡±

    I was about to struggle and prepare to fight these men but when I heard the old women, I calmed down and replied ¡°The children are safe, I saved them. There are a little further away if you walk back towards where I came.¡±

    The old women eyed me suspiciously, nonetheless ordered two of the man to go look for them. She then turned towards me and said ¡°You better prepare yourself If you had lied¡± in a threatening manner.

    I was not happy with the way I was being treated. I saved their kids, kept them safe; provided them food and this is how I was being repaid. If they were not related to the kids, I would have killed them all without batting an eye. The thing I hate the most is being mistreated. I will show kindness to the people who deserve it but will take action against those who are aggressive towards me.

    I calmed myself and stayed in the same position. After a few moments, Grace came running towards us.

    ¡°Granny, Thank goodness we found you....¡± She stopped in middle of the sentence when she noticed that I was forced on the ground by the villagers.

    ¡°Granny, Cleon is a good person. He saved us and was leading us to the village. Please let him go¡± She said hurriedly.

    I was released after being vouched for innocence. Everybody else came out shortly. Elena introduced herself and told them the entire thing that happened in the mountains.

    After hearing Elena, the old women looked at Grace as if to confirm what was said to her. Grace nodded several times in response.

    Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.    The old women looked at me and said ¡°I apologies for the troubles we have caused and I am very grateful that you save our children¡±

    I didn¡¯t reply and looked away in another direction. I was still pissed off at the way I was treated. Sure I may have looked suspicious when I had the demon book and they had the reason to treat me like that. Still something inside me didn¡¯t agree to it.

    On seeing my response, Grace seemed to be depressed; she looked at the ground in shame.

    ¡°How dare you show disrespect towards chief kaidae¡± One of the man said in anger.

    ¡°Give the book back¡± I said in response.

    ¡°The existence of demonic book is blasphemy. It brings death and destruction wherever it goes. We must destroy it immediately¡± old kaidae said in a stern voice.

    ¡°I found it, its upto me to keep it or destroy it. You have provoked me enough. I will not ask for it again.¡± I said in a threatening tone.

    ¡°Ok, then let me ask you. What do you plan on to do with it?¡± Old kaidae asked ignoring the anger in my voice.

    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business what I do with it. Nonetheless I¡¯ll tell you, I plan to study it to become knowledgeable so as to be wary of such things¡± I said to her irritated.

    ¡°Chief kaidae, don¡¯t get fooled by his words, anyone who gains demonic knowledge will eventually thirst for the ill power. We should destroy it this instance¡± the man who was aggressive towards me earlier said.

    ¡°There is only so much patience a I can.....¡± before I could finish my words Elena said hurriedly ¡°Please give him the book. Cleon is a good person; he will never harm the innocent. He saved all of us, please think of it as a repayment for his kindness¡± looks like Elena knows me well enough to sense when I am about to do something in anger.

    ¡°Very well, Reed give him the book for now¡± said old kaidae.

    The man named Reed threw the book at my feet. I glared at him before picking up the book.

    We were led out of mountains and to the village. The parents of the kids came running and hugged their children with tears. At the corner I saw two parents break down in tears after hearing that their children was killed in the cave.

    I was told that they had arranged a guest house for me. I saw that Elena was being led by Reed somewhere else. I went towards her ignoring the Spot who was supposed to accompany me to the guest house.

    ¡°Where are you going?¡± I asked her.

    ¡°They have prepared a room for me in one of the cottages; Mr. Reed is accompanying me there.¡± She responded to my question.

    ¡°Come with me, I have my things in the bags you are carrying. We will stay in the same place¡± I said to her grabbing her hand. I felt somewhat uneasy to let Elena out of my sight.

    ¡°Unmarried men and women do not spend night together in our village. It our rule¡± Reed said butting in again. It seems he would not stop bothering me unless I teach him a lesson.

    ¡°You can take that rule and get lost. I would gladly leave this village if I had to, once you fill us with stock of food which I spent feeding the kids. I am not letting her go out of my sight. We have been together for many days, she can judge my character herself.¡± I said in a displeased tone.

    ¡°No wonder she stinks, she looks like an innocent girl though. Looks can be deceiving¡± Reed said in a low tone eying Elena.

    I could not take it anymore. I was enraged and my eyes started to cloud again. I grabbed his collar and lifted him up. A red light started to appear all over his body when Elena grabbed my arm and fearfully said ¡°Please don¡¯t do it. Please calm your anger.¡±

    I let go of the man and he fell on his butt. ¡°Next time, I will make sure that there will be nothing left of you but cinders¡± I said to him with a vicious expression, Grabbing Elena and picking up our baggage I distanced myself from the confused man.

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    Here an extra long chapter for today. I am not feeling well hence there MAY not be a chapter tomorrow. If I don''t post the chapter tomorrow I''ll make up for it on Sunday. It all depends on how I feel.

 13 Chapter

    It was already late night, we were given a small cottage to stay in. It had one room and one kitchen. After eating supper, I insisted Elena to sleep on the bed while I choose a corner in the room to sleep. Elena didn¡¯t talk to me after the incident and I too said nothing about it. It¡¯s been an hour since we decided to sleep, but neither of us were actually asleep. Elena shifted again in her bed.

    ¡°Are you not able to sleep, is me being here really bothering you?¡± I asked looking at her direction.

    ¡°It¡¯s  not that. It¡¯s just... There¡¯s lot of things going on in my mind, I am just feeling a bit restless¡± She said sitting up on the bed.

    ¡°You need not worry about what anyone says. We are leaving this village tomorrow anyways¡± I said to her.

    ¡°Hum... Can¡¯t we stay for a few more days. After all the walking, I am really tired and we can always resume our journey a day or two later. Besides I do think that I need to take a bath atleast¡± Elena said with pleading eyes.

    ¡°Hum.. Ok, if you want to stay then we can postpone our journey by one day but I really like to leave this village. I don¡¯t like it here¡± I said looking a bit bothered.

    ¡°Is it really that bad? I think there''s just some misunderstanding. I am sure they will treat you right once they get to know you¡± Elena said as to reassure me.

    ¡°Yeh. I was forced to the ground, got dirtied. Interrogated, threatened, insulted, they snatched my possessions and refuse to given it back and they even insulted you. You want me to suck up to those who did these things. Even the pirates only did two of those things and none of them alive was left alive. I would not bear any insult towards me or my comrade¡± I said to her in a displeased tone.

    ¡°I am sorry, Both the times it¡¯s because of me you became like that... that angry¡± she said sorrowfully.

    ¡°No! It¡¯s not you that should feel sorry. Anyways don¡¯t dwell on the past. Look even my injuries are healed. Somehow I feel that it¡¯s healed a little faster this time.. So it¡¯s all well and good. Now go to sleep, we only have one day to make preparations and then we leave. I am sure your mom and sister are worried about you, the sooner we leave the sooner we can reach your village¡± I tried to console her.

    ¡°Um, Good Night¡± She said laying down on her bed facing towards the opposite direction.

    A few minutes passed by and I heard a sound of someone approaching. Elena turned towards my direction and looked at me.

    I took out my knife just in case and upon seeing the silhouette I relaxed a bit.

    ¡°Is it alright for a girl to sneak into a man¡¯s room like that, Grace¡± I asked Grace provokingly. I was mad at her grandmother and was unconsciously taking it out on her.

    ¡°It¡¯s alright, everybody¡¯s asleep. No one knows I am here besides you have got Elena with you. So I know it¡¯s safe to be here¡± Grace said teasingly.

    ¡°Why are you sneaking out at night. Whatever you want can wait till morning¡± I said to her.

    Elena didn¡¯t say a word and was listening to the conversation. I can see very well in the darkness but those two cannot, so Grace didn¡¯t notice where Elena was and that she was awake.

    Grace came towards me sensing the direction of my voice.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think Granny would let me talk to you anymore. She was telling granpa that anyone who wants to do anything with the demon book cannot be trusted¡±

    ¡°Maybe she is right, afterall she is your Grandma¡± I told her to get out of the conversation.

    ¡°Granny is just being cautious, after all two of the kids from our village lost their lives. She doesn''t want to take anymore chances¡± Grace said to me.

    ¡°So why are you here at this time¡± I asked her.

    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.¡°I am here to apologise on behalf of my Grandmother and the villagers. You saved us and yet we didn¡¯t show any gratitude¡± She said sincerely.

    ¡°I do not want any gratitude, I can just do without being disrespect and it seems no one is capable of that in this village.¡± I said to her in a serious tone.

    ¡°That¡¯s why I am here to apologise. Please forgive my Grandma. Even if you are viewed with suspicion, Elena will be treated like a guest and will be taken care of, so please stay with........¡± As Grace was saying that I heard whispers outside the house and quickly placed my hand on her mouth to silence her. I motioned her that someone was outside.

    ------------Out side the house-------------

    ¡°Are you sure everybody¡¯s asleep. If anyone saw us then we would have a hard time to defend ourselves and wont be able to get a hold of the demon book¡± a man whispered.

    ¡°Everybody¡¯s asleep, I made sure to look out for anyone wandering outside¡± another voice came from the same direction.

    ¡°This time I get to have the girl first, you did that girl with curly hair first in the other village. I hate used goods, I like them fresh¡± The first voice said.

    ¡°Whatever, make sure to bound her mouth tightly so that she doesn''t scream and alert others. I will go for the guy and finish him off as soon as possible¡± the second voice replied.

    Then they started to move again silently.

    ----------------------------

    Hearing the conversation both Elena and Grace panicked, Grace stated to open her mouth to scream when I closed her mouth tightly and motioned her to be silent. I told her to stay in the same place and slowly tiptoed towards the door. I knew that those voices belong to Reed and Spot, I was suspicious of them before and I didn¡¯t want to go back on my earlier promise either. Rage filled me and my eyes started to cloud. The door was pushed open silently and two men steped inside. As soon as they steped in, I grabbed both of them by the neck and lifted them.

    ¡°The world would be better off without scums like you¡± I said to them. They were both caught off guard and seemed to be terrified by looking into my eyes. Red aura covered them both, it condensed to form black flame and both their bodies started to burn. They both screamed their lungs out, after a few seconds it was over. Two pile of ash remained where the men previously stood. I calmed myself and looked at Grace and Elena.

    Elena was not afraid this time and seems to be calm although still bothered by the scene, where Grace was looking at me with horrified expression.

    ¡°I do not like to give a chance to my enemies. Leaving him alive the first time was a mistake¡± I said looking at Elena. Grace stood there motionless looking at me.

    After a few moments I heard a lot of people coming towards my direction. A middle aged man with a muscular body came first and asked what happened.

    On seeing him Grace hurried towards him. More villagers started to appear behind the man and by now Elena also was besides me.

    ¡°Papa, Reed and Spot. They both tried to kill us. They were planning to kill Cleon and take the book. They even said that they will violate Elena like they did to the girl in the other village¡± Grace said to the man almost crying.

    ¡°Calm down Grace and tell me what happened properly¡± The man said to Grace.

    I didn¡¯t want to strain the now emotionally unstable girl, so I explained them what had happened.

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    I was over enthusiastic today and wrote three chapter, so now I don''t have to write for three days.  I''ll be posting them one at a time each day after proof reading them.

 14 Chapter

    On hearing my story the man whispered to himself ¡°We should have never trusted them¡±

    Old Kaidae stepped forward and said ¡°This wouldn''t have happened if you have give that book away¡±

    My stomach burned with rage and I stepped forward ¡°Are you the one who sent them after us, if so then I cannot possibly let you go.¡± Elena grabbed my hand and held it tightly.

    ¡°Now, Now mother. Is this the way our village treats our benefactors nowadays.¡± The man said quickly rebuking old Kaidae.

    ¡°I would never stoop so low even in the face of a desperate situation. They took action on their own.¡± Old Kaidae said hurriedly to clear her name.

    ¡°They were after my book, I am not sure if someone would take such a risk just to destroy the demon book. Would you have left them without punishment if they tried to justify their act?¡± I ignored old Kaidae and asked the man in front of me.

    ¡°Killing an innocent without any proof will surely not be taken lightly and they would have been driven out of the village but violating a women and killing her would have them executed. Women are to be treated with equal respect in this village and violence against them is not tolerated¡± The man replied to me.

    ¡°So it¡¯s safe to consider that they had something to do with the book. I am assuming that they belong to the group who kidnapped the children, judging by how Spot recognised the book instantly and snatched it from me. Reed was also reluctant to give me the book back after taking it from me. I had my doubts before but this confirms my suspicion. Were they really from this village¡± I asked the man.

    ¡°They are not of our village. Two months ago our men were attacked by bandits when they were returning from other village and they saved them. From then onwards they started living with us.¡± This time old Kaidae replied to my question.

    ¡°Are there any other men who accompanied them¡± I asked her hurriedly.

    ¡°Yes, another man named Komar came along with them¡± Old Kaidae said after realising what I meant.

    ¡°Find this Komar as soon as possible. I will also look for him. Elena, stay with Old Kaidae and do not go anywhere else.¡± Old Kaidea had a bad mouth and I didn¡¯t like her personality but she was not someone who would plot against her own villagers, so it¡¯s safe to let Elena be with her.

    The muscular man told everyone to search for Komar and inform others. He told me to come with him and lead me to another house.

    As we neared the house I saw an old man standing outside the house with a cane in his hand. He had a big white beard and wore blithe expression on seeing us.

    ¡°Father, you are already here.¡±The muscular man exclaimed on seeing the old man.

    ¡°Wind carried the words; it would be a shame as a Chief of the village if I let the youngsters do all the hard work.¡± The old chief replied.

    ¡°Now if you excuse me. I¡¯ll go and get some information out of the traitor¡± The old chief said and entered the house.

    A lean man was in the middle of packing things in boxes when we stepped in first room of the house.

    ¡°You seem to be in a rush to go somewhere, may I give you a hand?¡± The old chief said to the man before him.

    On seeing the old Chief the man before him paled and stood up from his place ¡°Chief, I was just... just going out hunting¡± the man said hesitantly.

    ¡°Do tell what were you going to hunt in the night, I would also like to join you, I was a good hunter in my young days after all¡± The old Chief mocked him.

    The man stood there for a few seconds when nothing came to his mind, he bolted towards the open window.

    ¡°How rude, not replying to the elders¡± old chief said and waived his cane. The man was flung away from the window into a wall and he was hanging there like he was glued to the wall.

    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.

    ¡°Eric, go tell everyone that Komar was captured and to go to sleep. We don¡¯t want to tire everyone out, after all there¡¯s work to be done tomorrow¡± old chief said to the muscular man.

    ¡°Ok then, I¡¯ll leave this to you father¡± said Eric as he left me there standing alone outside the room.

    ¡°Now then my friend, why don¡¯t you come inside and sit over there. I am sure you will enjoy the show¡± old Chief said to me.

    I went inside and sat in the room. I can see that this old man is capable of manipulating air, so it¡¯s safe to assume he¡¯s a capable mage.

    ¡°Well well, now down to the business. Komar isn''t it very sneaky of you to escape in middle of the night leaving your friends. What would they think if they find out¡± old Chief taunted the guy.

    He didn''t say anything. Old chief tapped his cane and the man went pale, he seems to be suffocating and just when he was about to pass out old chief taped again he was released from suffocation.

    ¡°Take a deep breath and answer me. Tell me the truth and I would go easy on you, where did you come from and how many people are still there near our village¡± the old Chief asked again.

    Komar took a deep breath and refuse to let it go, he didn¡¯t even opened his mouth.

    ¡°Tough lad, aren¡¯t you. If all you wanted was some more air, you could have just asked. No need to be shy¡± Said the old Chief and again gestured with his cane.

    Air seems to have been forced into the man lungs, his chest began to grow visibly larger and just when I thought he was going to burst. He exhaled deeply and coughed erratically.

    ¡°It¡¯s just like the good¡¯ol days. I feel like I can do this all night. I don¡¯t get that much sleep anyways.¡± said the old Chief.

    The man coughed a few more times; he was horrified upon hearing the old Chief and stated telling him everything frantically.

    They were part of organisation called Decollate, whose objective is to gain power by sharing information and resources among them. He was part of the team who found a demonic book and they were doing demonic rituals ever since. They wanted everyone in the team to be possessed by a demon so that they can become powerful and that¡¯s why they have been travelling villages looking for children to sacrifice. They split into two teams, while one team attacked, the other team would pretend to save the villagers in order to gain their trust and stay within the village. After finding appropriate timing they would strike and take the children. The first team will take a batch of children and after exhausting them, they would attack the front of the village as a distraction while the other team inside the village would take children in guise of protecting them and take them as hostage, using them later for them rituals. They have been doing this for the past three villages but to summon a demon they needed much more children and hence they continued to adopt the same tactics as they pass through the villages. He noticed that the plan failed this time when I had the book with me. So two of his comrades were to kill me and take it back while he stayed to prepare for their departure.

    I asked him why there were two demonic books when he hinted that only one came into their possession. On mentioning that there were two books the old chief brows furrowed. I ignored him and looked at the man for answers.

    Initially there was only one book but they used a spell to duplicate it. One book for each team, but this time they were about to complete their first summon; so the other team took both the books with them so as to make the summoning quicker.

    I got my answers so I stood up to leave, the old man didn¡¯t stop me. I guess he is the only sensible guy in this village. Looks like I have to learn from this old man. Rather than killing the enemies instantly. His methods, albeit a little rough; will get answers out of them.

    I went out of the house to find Elena.

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    First of all, Thanks for the person who voted my story. It sure motivates me to continue this story. This is most probably last chapter of the week. I take weekends off from writing, If possible I will write tomorrow otherwise the next chapter would be on Monday. Have a great weekend everyone.

 15 Chapter

    The next morning I was asked to go to the chief¡¯s place. Elena was sleeping ¡®guess she didn¡¯t get that much sleep last night after all that ruckus¡¯. I was feeling sleepy myself, the chief placed two guards outside the house we stayed in and hence I was able to relax a bit.

    Right now I am at Chief¡¯s place. In front of me there were various delicious looking food.

    ¡°Well don¡¯t be shy, eat up. Feel free to try anything you like¡± The old Chief said looking at me.

    I sat in the dining table along with five people. Old Chief, Chief Kaidae, Grace and Grace¡¯s father Eric. I wasn¡¯t told that I would be having breakfast with them. Wait, why the atmosphere feels like a counselling session.

    As I was thinking the old Chief said ¡°Don¡¯t worry about Elena, I have send a maid to cook for her and help her in preparations¡±

    I took two pieces of meat in my plate and started chewing one of them.

    ¡°Are you sure she is not your wife. You two seem to be close and you are very protective of her¡± This time Eric questioned me.

    ¡°We both have our circumstances, I promised her that I would take her to her village, her safety is my priority. I¡¯ll be on my way after she reaches her village, but that is none of your concern¡± I told him with a straight face, I didn¡¯t want them to probe further.

    ¡°Dear, your treatment seems to have put off our guest. Now he is not being friendly at all¡± Old Chief said looking at Chief Kaidae.

    Chief Kaidae didn¡¯t say anything she was eating her food as usual.

    ¡°Forgive my wife for her rudeness, as things have been going on lately. It¡¯s become imperative to eye strangers with suspicion. Join me in the study after breakfast; I have a few things to discuss with you.¡± the old Chief said to me, once again turning his attention towards me.

    We finished eating silently, the Chief¡¯s family had some small talks but I was not interested in that and concentrated on my food. I noticed that Grace was glancing in my direction a few times.

    A few minutes later, I was sitting in a chair in the study room along with the old Chief who sat in opposite direction facing me, holding a red book in his hand. The book was similar to the demonic book I had in my possession.

    ¡°I thought you are not supposed to have that book. Chief Kaidae insisted on disposing off the book in my possession all the while having one in her own house, talk about impertinence.¡± I said in a slightly loud tone.

    ¡°This isn¡¯t a Demonic book; it¡¯s an account of demonic rituals and powers from spectator¡¯s point of view. Demonic book corrupts a soul and make the possessor thirst for its power, while this book shows the working of Demonic ceremonies from outsiders perspective without any negative effect.¡± The old Chief replied to my statement.

    ¡°So you are saying it¡¯s a copy of Demonic book without its negative effects?¡± I asked him quizzically.

    ¡°No, this book is nothing like the real Demonic book, it just gives us broad outline and ability to recognise the Demonic powers. Ofcource through understanding of Demonic rituals and ceremonies can only be obtained through the real Demonic book.¡± The old Chief replied again to my question.

    ¡°Grace told me that you killed Reed and Spot at the same time in an unorthodox manner. I asked her in detail and got some idea of the way you took care of them¡± Said the old Chief and skid the book in his hand to my side.

    I looked at the open page of the book and read its contents

    8th Century Demonic practices:

    Hell-Fire order was founded by Sir Francis Dashwood in the 721. He acquired Grimories of Spells and conjurations and considered it would be interesting to indulge in magical activities. He has been known to have researched demonic arts extensively. Hugh Warpole, one of his disciples wrote in his diary about witnessing one of the rites performed covertly in the Sistine Chapel

    On a New Moon, a chosen penitent attending the Sistine chapel takes a small scourge from an attendant at the door. The Chapel is dimly lighted, only three candles, which are extinguished by Sir Francis, one by one. At putting out the first, the penitent takes off one part of their dress. At the next, still more and in the dark which follows the extinguishing the third candle, ¡°lay on¡± their back with groans and lamentations. Dashwood then would stand above them muttering incantations and after a while, a black flame would emerge from the penitent¡¯s body, it would engulf the whole body while the penitent screams in agony which would last for a few moments. After everything is over only the burnt corpse lay in the altar without any sign of the fire.

    Stolen story; please report.

    ¡°So you are suggesting that I am this Sir Francis Dashwood?¡± I asked the old Chief.

    ¡°No don¡¯t be silly, He was killed shortly after he fled the capital and it was millennia ago. Besides Grace mentioned that you didn¡¯t mutter anything and it happened in a very short amount of time.¡± The old Chief said with a smile.

    ¡°Then what do I owe the pleasure of your research¡± I asked him with raised brows.

    ¡°I suspect that the powers you wield are demonic in nature. Have you been reading and practicing the rituals from the book?¡± The Old Chief asked in a serious tone.

    ¡°I had this ability even before the Demonic book came into my possession. Elena can testify it after all she has seen it way before when we were sailing on a merchant ship. I do not know how I came into possession of such power; neither do I care as it had saved my ass quite a few times.¡± I said to the old Chief not caring whether he would believe me or not.

    ¡°Sounds like an interesting story, I¡¯ll be sure to check with her.¡± He said in a pleased tone.

    ¡°I would have liked you to stay and if possible make a few propositions but you are firm in your decision to leave, besides you¡¯ve got such a beauty by your side.¡± after a little pause the old Chief said in a sad tone.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be jealous. You could also have married a beauty as a Chief, what possessed you to marry chief Kaidae¡± I smirked at him.

    ¡°She was a beauty among beauty in her youth, not to mention the sharp senses of hers. She isn¡¯t that bad once you get to know her¡± He said in an excited tone.

    ¡°Whatever, I do not plan to get to know her even if she begged me to¡± I told him firmly.

    ¡°Too bad, Grace will be sad to hear that. She has taken quite a liking to you and even argued with Kaidae in your favour¡± old Chief said expectantly.

    I didn¡¯t reply anything and soon left after thanking him for breakfast.

    I entered the house where Elena and I stayed and found Elena chatting with a woman.

    On seeing me the women stood up and left the house.

    ¡°They have packed our stock in baggage and prepared a few things which would help us in our journey¡± Elena said to me.

    ¡°It¡¯s not safe to be here. After last night, I don¡¯t know if I can trust anybody from this village. I know I said that we could stay in this village for a day or two but I think it would be better if we leave now¡± I said to Elena gauging her expression.

    ¡°Ok, I will make preparation to leave¡± She said without batting an eye.

    I thought she would surely say something at the sudden suggestion of leaving, but to my surprise she agreed without any protest. I stated at her for a few moments.

    ¡°Is there.. Is there something wrong¡± Elena stammered in embarrassment.

    ¡°Hum... No.. Nothing.. It¡¯s just that I didn¡¯t think that would agree so quickly¡± I said to her honestly.

    ¡°That¡¯s.. That¡¯s because yesterday I stopped you earlier from harming that Reed person and because of that you had to go through trouble again. I have decided to not to doubt your judgment and cause more trouble to you¡± she said dejectedly.

    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault. You just lack the experience to judge the intentions of people, I am sure you will learn it eventually¡± I said to cheer her up.

    After a few hours we stood outside the village with our bags. The chief¡¯s family and others came to send us off. The old Chief told me to visit the village again anytime.

    ¡°Is it alright to leave without saying anything to Grace? She seems to like you and was quite sad upon seeing you leave.¡± Elena asked me hesitantly.

    ¡°It¡¯s better if she doesn''t get too involved. She¡¯s just confused the feeling of gratitude for love. I am sure she will forget about it in a few days¡± I replied and started walking towards the forest. Elena fastened her pace to catch up with me.

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I am back after the weekend. Today the chapter proceeds a little slow but after a few chapter the pacing will be a little bit faster. I hope you enjoy the story

 16 Chapter

    We were passing through the Gratel forest. It is the biggest forest on the continent, separating many cities and towns. It is a dangerous forest filled with vicious beasts. Legend has it that a great witch once lived in this forest who in order to protect the forest from humans, gave various abilities to the beasts and trees that reside in the forest. There are also various trade routes among the forest and it is considered the safest area in the forest. Merchants frequent these routes to travel between cities protected by mercenaries. Adventurers are also frequently despatched by the guilds once in a while to despatch any beast that made their home near the trade routes, but the adventurers usually clear the areas near their town and city and the rest are left as it is and that¡¯s why the need to hire machineries is required for safe travel.

    ¡°I wonder if we will encounter any beast due the smell of the food we are carrying¡± I said out loud to myself.

    ¡°I have been told that a spell was casted on our food that seals the smell along with preserving the food, so I don¡¯t think we need to worry about that¡± Elena replied to the question.

    I felt a little vulnerable during the day so I was being extra caution. At night I had the advantage of seeing and hearing clearly, so I could take out the predators by surprise. But during the day I didn¡¯t felt as good as in the night. So we had to watch out and be alert.

    Elena stooped in her tracks upon seeing something and called out to me.

    ¡°Can I collect some herbs so that I could make a few medicines just in case¡± Elena asked me.

    ¡°Um.. Ok.. as long as it doesn¡¯t take much time.¡± I said to her sitting under a big tree.

    Elena started gathering different types of herbs.

    ¡°Do you know how to make poison?¡± I asked her.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t particularly learn how to make poison, but granny told a number of ingredients that should not be mixed due to its toxic nature. I will be able to recognise them. Do you want me to make them?¡± Elena asked looking towards me.

    ¡°If it won¡¯t be a problem for you, then make some. We are going to need it, It will give us an extra assurance.¡± I told her.

    Elena again started gathering herbs and mushrooms. I told her not to go far and started reading the demonic book.

    Demons thrive on life essence which they get by consuming souls. More corrupt the soul; more energy can be squeezed out of it. That is the reason demon possessed bodies could wield so much power, as the summonses generally acts as vessels for demonic possessions. The only backlash is that the demon possessed body can only last for about eight years. During those years the possessors soul itself is slowly converted into energy until nothing remains but a hollow body which turns into dust after complete exhaustion.

    The type of power and abilities depend on the demon summoned. More complex the Demonic ceremonies, the more powerful the demon that can be summoned. Complexity of ceremony affects the number of sacrifices to be made. Summoning some powerful demons may even require millions of souls.

    The demons also wield power similar to human mages but with more power and control. With only exception of dark powers which is only limited to demons. A person possessed by demons will feel restless, slight burning feeling combined with severe weakness during the day, would be prone to confusion and hallucinate sometimes which is brought by coexistence of two souls in a single body.

    I felt the sigh of relief on reading the symptoms of possessions. Initially I doubted whether I was possessed by a demon and it was the main reason I insisted on keeping the demonic book with me. Now that I know that I am not possessed by any demon I could relax a bit. However I am still bothered by the fact that I feel week during the day.

    I closed the book upon seeing Elena approaching me. She had collected a lot of herbs. If not for their potential use, I would have never approved of carrying the load.

    This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    We both started walking again. Soon night came and we camped out like usual. Elena started grinding the herbs into paste and started mixing them. She made four types of paste and gave one of them to me telling that it was poison.

    I started smearing the poison on the tip of the arrows and the sword which I took earlier from the merchant ship. I gave the bow and arrows to Elena to defend herself just in case.

    ¡°But I do not know how to use it¡± Elena motioned to give up on the bow and arrows.

    ¡°You just have to point, pull and shoot; it¡¯s not a big thing. You can do it.¡± I told her pushing it her hand.

    ¡°But I have never used it before, what if I miss the enemy¡± She said unwilling to take it.

    ¡°Just keep it for safety then. Predators will think before attacking a person with weapon¡± I convinced her to take it.

    Night came again and we camped for the night. I placed traps near our camp. We took turns sleeping and nothing out of ordinary happened.

    The next day I woke up and went to check the traps I laid, to my surprise two rabbits were trapped in there.

    I made a small cage by tying up the sticks and carried the struggling rabbits in it. They were rather cute looking pair. On seeing them, Elena was all shiny eyes. She was depressed when I told her that they would be dinner in case we exhaust our food. We are already carrying dried rabbit meat, so it¡¯s no big deal to catch a live one for food.

    As we went deeper in the forest, it was getting dark as the trees blocked sunlight. Elena was delighted on seeing bunch of herbs and went on to collect them. I patiently waited for her as this was the first time I saw her happy face. We talked all day, she told me all the stuff about herbs. Most of the information went above my head but I listened to her enthusiastically.

    Night came and we once again camped out, it was unusually silent. I again placed a few traps while Elena was preparing dinner. I looked at the rabbits that were now calm and munching on the carrots Elena gave them.  She seems to be too kind hearted, I wonder if she would be alright on her own. As long as she is with her mother, she would be alright. I cleared my thoughts and started eating my dinner.

    In the middle of the night, there was sound of bushes near us. I stood up in alarm. Three of my traps went off one by one. There were multiple enemies. I woke up Elena and told her to take up her bow. The rabbits were terrified and were scampering in their cage. The smell of mud and blood drifted about in air. I listened to the sound and confirmed that we were surrounded by multiple enemies.

    I stood there with a sword in one hand and a knife in another ready to engage with the enemies. A few minutes passed by and big wolf like creature came out of darkness, behind it there were multiple small wolves. This big wolf seems to be head of the pack. I counted twenty eight wolves near the big wolf and many others father enough that I couldn¡¯t count but knew were there due to the sound they were making.

    ¡°Grab your medicine pouch and pack important stuff in it. We may have to abandon our food¡± I said to Elena in a hurried tone.

    I stood before her obstructing the wolves view as she hurriedly stuffed her medicine pouch.

    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I was too tired to write today, though I would skip today but then I started writing anyways. This was suppose to be a long chapter but as I said I was exhausted and finished it short. I didn''t proof read today so sorry if there are any mistakes. Good Night.

 17 Chapter

    I stood with a sword in one hand and a knife in another ready to engage with the beast before me. I didn¡¯t think that we had any chance to defeat them all or scare them away, but if I could create an opening we might be able to escape. It¡¯s regrettable but we must leave our food.

    The big wolf stepped forward. Although I say wolf, it¡¯s nothing like a typical wolf. It was covered with dark purple fur with unusually bulky body. The other small wolves stayed back, they seem to be waiting for something.

    I brandished the sword in front of me and Elena loaded an arrow in her bow. Unlike me she didn¡¯t have any experience in killing; her hands were trembling. I looked at our surrounding and determined that other wolves were not going to attack us. They were waiting patiently examining our strength. The Big wolf dashed towards us and I too quickly moved forward holding weapons in both hands. As the distance closed between us, I saw an arrow flew by and implanted itself on the ground several feet¡¯s off to the side of the big wolf. Maybe it wasn''t such a good idea to give Elena the bow. It was not a problem giving her the bow, but letting her actually use it. Now that the wolves knew that she didn''t know how to use the weapon, they seem to have gotten bold and were moving forward slowly.

    I didn¡¯t have time to tell her anything now; I prepared myself to clash with the big wolf. Upon getting into its range I swung the sword. The wolf dogged it and attacked me with its paw, I retreated a few steps back and without waiting for a moment, I jumped forward thrusting the knife I held in another hand. When I retreated the big wolf pounced at me but it was surprised when I suddenly jumped forward towards it. We both collided and my knife penetrated its left leg. Both the big wolf and I were thrown aside due to the collision. I quickly gathered the knife and stood up looking at the big wolf. Sure it was wounded deeply and blood started to taint its fur. It roared viciously and once again came towards me, but now its speed was a little slower than before.

    Suddenly it changed its direction in mid way, heading towards Elena. It seems it had quite a bit of intelligence as it sensed that I was a tough opponent and it went towards Elena who seemed to be an easier target. Elena panicked and shot off another arrow. In the exact moment I threw the knife with all my strength towards the back of the big wolf. The arrow Elena shot went past the big wolf and impaled me above the elbow of my hand. It was really a bad idea to give her the bow; I acknowledged my stupidity as I pulled out the arrow from my hand and assessed the situation.

    The knife I threw was lodged in hind leg of the big wolf, due to that it was not able to attack Elena. Elena seems to have thrown herself out of the big wolf¡¯s path. She laid a few feet¡¯s away from the big wolf and it was struggling to stand up. The small wolves stated moving towards us. They sensed their chance and closed in. I ran up to the cage in which the rabbits were trapped and opened it. Immediately the rabbits fled in different directions and a few small wolves went after it. I was so immersed in quelling their numbers that I forgot the big wolf. Somehow I made towards me and slashed at me. I turned myself on sensing it but was too late and the big wolf¡¯s claws made their way towards my sides and tore the skin below my chest all the way to the back side. I on the other hand had impulsively raised the sword in my hand which miraculously pierced the neck of the big wolf from the bottom.

    In the corner of my eye, I saw that Elena was surrounded by three small wolves and one of them even bit her thigh. Elena was stabbing the wolf with the arrow in her hand; just then another wolf pounced and bit her shoulder barely missing her neck. More wolves were stating to approach her and even more number of wolves were heading in my direction. With one big swing I cut loose the bag in which we had food and dashed towards Elena. Within a moment I was in front of her, I took another knife from my pocked and slashed the neck of the wolf which was biting her shoulder. I grabbed her hand and forced her to run along with me. The wolves were distracted by the new found food and majority of them didn¡¯t pursue us, only six of them were following us. Elena kept up with me and ran as fast as she could. One of the wolves pounced at us, I turned back aiming the sword perfectly in its direction and it impaled itself on it. Both Elena and I fell from the force. I quickly stood up brandishing my sword and swooped another wolf which was headed directly in our direction. The remaining four wolves stooped in their tracks seeing their comrades fell without much effort. They stood there for a moment eying me and ran back after judging that there weren''t a match for me.

    I went to Elena¡¯s side and discovered that blood was flowing out of her wounds. Her dress was torn revealing quite an amount of skin. I took the medicine pouch from her and applied it quickly on her wounds. Then tore off my shirt and bandaged her to arrest the bleeding. She was breathing heavily. I knew it was not safe for us to stop as the wolves may come back after having their fill with our food. I asked Elena if she could continue to walk. She stood up with a lot of effort and tried to step forward but immediately fell as her legs gave out.

    ¡°I am unable to walk, Leave me here and go.¡± She said to me crying in pain.

    I tore her upper cloth and made a few strips out of it.

    She had horrified look when I tore her upper cloth, I didn¡¯t have time to explain things to her.  I turned and bent my knees, telling her to get on my back.

    She protest once again told me to leave her and escape on my own.

    I told her that I won¡¯t be going anywhere without her and that If she insisted then I would rather perish with her than abandon her. I did not come this far to let her die or be killed myself.

    Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.     With a lot of effort she held herself on my back. Using the strips I made earlier I bound her body with mine so that she didn¡¯t have to put much energy to stay on my back.

    I started moving forward in a fast pace. I was feeling dizzy myself, maybe because of poison from the arrow. I didn¡¯t know if I would be able to survive the poison but I moved forward hastily as I was in no condition to counter the wolves again.

    ¡°You should have left me there, I am being a burden to you¡± Elena spoke with difficulty.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about that, don¡¯t talk. Keep quiet and preserve your energy¡± I said to her in a stern tone.

    When faced with crisis one has to stay strong. Often times losing hope is the major cause of demise rather than lack of strength.

    ¡°I am always causing trouble, others end up making sacrifices in order to protect me¡± Elena continued without heeding my words.

    I stooped in my tracks ¡°That¡¯s not true; you sacrificed yourself to save your mother. You think too lowly of yourself; it¡¯s time you gain some confidence. You can always make amends and help those who have shown kindness to you but everything is over once you die. You cannot move forward untill you accept your weakness, misfortunes, anger and guilt. Unlike me you have a home to return to and have people waiting for you. It¡¯s worth to endure the pain and hardship for them. And I am not going to give up on my promise. If you don¡¯t stop talking I will bind your mouth to stop you from speaking¡±

    On hearing my words she started crying again. Her tears flowed on my shoulder and made its way to my chest. A cold chillness spread though my body and I started walking again putting the uneasiness at bay. I had walked quite a distance and was sure that the wolves won¡¯t be able to catch up anytime soon; I slowed down my pace but kept walking.

    After a while I sensed that Elena stopped crying and her breath became regular. I noticed that she had fallen asleep. I too was exhausted and wanted to take a nap, but I kept walking anyway. I felt my whole arm going numb maybe because of the poison. I didn¡¯t stop though and kept walking.

    I didn¡¯t knew when I passed out, I woke up to find myself laying on my stomach on a small patch of grass, Elena still wrapped to my body. I loosened the straps and separated her from me. Both of our bodies were smeared with dried blood. My wounds were completely healed, the rate of recovery seems to get faster as time passed and even the poison seems to be taken care of. I looked at Elena, she was still unconscious. Her clothes were torn in many places, She had a clear soft skin and if not for the blood she would have looked much more beautiful.

    I started taking off her bandages and she woke up. Our bodies were too close and it seemed like I was removing her cloths.

    ¡°What¡­ What are you doing¡± Elena said in a shocked tone and then covered her chest in embarrassment.

    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think it is.. I was just.. just check your wounds¡± I said to her hurriedly. I didn¡¯t want her to misunderstand my intentions.

    She stayed there silently in the same position for a few seconds before letting me examine her.

    She had a deep bite mark on her shoulder where the wolf bit and flesh was visible from the wound. One the other hand I was surprised to see that the wound on her thigh was healed completely. Does she also have the power to heal just like me? I thought to myself but quickly dispelled the thought on seeing her shoulder again.

    That leaves only one possibility. It has to be my body that healed her. I thought it over for a few minutes and came to the conclusion. I was bleeding from my elbow and it was in direct contact with her thighs when I carried her. I took the knife and cut my hand, blood started flowing from the wound. Elena was shocked on seeing me cut myself but before she could respond, I placed my blood stained hand on her shoulder. Elena screamed in pain and struggled a bit. I placed my hand firmly on her wound and let my blood flow freely on it. Elena calmed down after a few minutes but still tears ran down her cheeks. I took my hand away from her shoulder and once again bandaged it carefully.

    I carried her and placed her under a big tress. She looked a little better now. She still covered her chest in embarrassment and it was awkward to look at her.

    ¡°I am going to find some food, if something happens just shout my name loudly and I will hurry back here¡± I told her trying to hide my own embarrassment.

    I walked a few paces then turned back and said ¡°and don¡¯t even think of wielding that bow again.¡±

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    Here is an extra long chapter for today. Do let me know if you guys like it.

 18 Chapter

    After walking a little bit, a big pond came into view. I spotted four deer drinking water from the pond. I stopped in my tracks and closed in on them quietly. If I had time, I would have set traps and tried to capture all of them; but now didn¡¯t have that leisure. I took out the knife from my pocket and threw it with full strength at one of the deer. That alerted the deer and they ran in different direction. I chose to follow a deer which I didn¡¯t attack earlier, I ram after the deer but after a few moments I had to quit following it as it was too fast. I rushed back to the pond and saw drops of blood. I quickly followed the direction of the blood drops and found the wounded deed limping as it was trying to get away. Initially I planned to follow this one after I get another deer, thereby capturing two deer; but the unwounded one was too fast and the plan didn¡¯t work as anticipated. I took the sword and was upon the wounded deer in a few seconds.

    I came back to the pond dragging the dead deer behind me. I went straight to the pond as I guessed Elena wouldn¡¯t like to see the deer being skinned. I skinned the deer and then started chopping the meet into little pieces. I cleaned the skin and the meet in the pond then I cut holes in the skin making it like a crude dress. Grabbed a bunch of few leaves, carried both the meat and skin with me.

    I went back to Elena and gave her the skin. She wasn¡¯t excited to see the dress and was a bit reluctant to wear it, but having had no choice she took it. Atleast it would make things a little less awkward between us. I started gathering dried sticks to make fire. I cooked five pieces of meat to eat and the rest was dried in smoke to preserve them. Over the period of days together I knew how much we both ate, I ate three pieces while Elena ate two. I told Elena that we should leave this area and she agreed without hesitance. I supported her shoulder to balance her weight and we started walking.

    We were lost in the forest with no map. I decided to follow the sun¡¯s direction as Elena¡¯s village was located in the west relative to the forest. We stopped twice to rest, half way through Elena was feeling much better and she decided to walk without my assistance. In the mean time, I found a big thick stick to bind the knife, making it like a spear. I forbade Elena to use the bow and hence this made a good weapon for her. We picked up our pace as she got better and had put quite a distance between our initial resting place and the current location. By evening Elena¡¯s shoulder wound was almost completely healed, although she was feeling week due loss of blood. Unlike her I didn¡¯t felt any kind of weakness; maybe my blood also regenerates quickly.

    Night came and this time I didn¡¯t light any fire which lowers the chance of catching the attention of the predators. I prepared a lot of traps and set them near our resting place. It was full moon and hence there was better visibility, not that it mattered to me as I could see very well in the darkness. It did help Elena¡¯s visibility and she was not uncomfortable because of lack of fire.

    A few hours passed by peacefully and then it happened again. I heard noises in the bushes around us.

    -------- Elena¡¯s POV--------

    I have been plagued with misfortunes from the day my father died. Things have become even more awful lately. If Cleon was not there with me, it¡¯s dreadful to even imagine what would have happened. He is strong and faces all difficulties bravely; if not for me I am sure he would have been well-off by now. I am just a hindrance, yet he doesn¡¯t want to leave me. Even when we face with dire situations, he doesn¡¯t think of abandoning me and protects me with all his might. I don¡¯t know how I can ever repay his kindness.

    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.

    He says that he is doing all this because he promised me that he would take me back to my village. I am sure only part of it is true. The more I stay with him, the more I realized that deep down he is lonely. Sometimes he looks into the sky with a sad and lonely face. He does not remember anything about his past, nothing about him, his family or his friends. It must be painful for him to see others being happy with their friends and family. Although he might not agree but he longs for a companion and it may be one of the reasons why he is accompanying me to my village. I am afraid of what comes after we reach our village. Would he be alright if I stayed with my family? Although I would like for him to stay in our village, I know he would leave to find his identity.

    His body felt very warm when he carried me yesterday. I cried myself to sleep, it was so embarrassing and in the morning I thought he was doing something perverted when he was just tending to my wounds, I feel like burying myself under a rock in shame. He was even nice enough to bring me the deer skin to cover myself. This is the first time that a man other than my father has treated me like this. Is it alright? Am I worthy of his care? I wondered whether he would be alright without me, while I should really wonder would I be alright without him.

    I can¡¯t stop myself thinking about these things even though we were still in the forest surrounded by danger. I don¡¯t want us to reach our village soon but I also want to leave this forest as to not get hurt, my feelings are complicated.  Cleon told me to sleep but the more I think about these things the more I feel restless inside and unable to sleep.

    After a while Cleon came to my side and woke me up. He handed me the spear to protect myself. Last time I unintentionally harmed him with the bow, so I am not to touch the bow. There were lot of noises coming from the bushes and Cleon told me that we were surrounded by the wolves like creatures again. We gave everything we had to the wolves yesterday, what more could they want from us. Will the wolves not stop till they kill us? Yesterday because of me, Cleon had to suffer a lot; I didn¡¯t want that to happen again.

    Loud snapping sounds came ahead of us at a distance and the wolves were howling in pain. It seems Cleon had set up traps earlier. After few moments multiple wolves emerged from the shadows. Cleon was standing in an offensive pose wielding his sword. This time there were no big wolves, looks like it really died yesterday. I tightened my grip on the spear in my hand. I may not be able to kill any of them, but I will defend myself so as to not hold back Cleon. Last time he got hurt because he had to constantly look out for me. This time I will put all my strength and fight for myself.

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    Today''s chapter was a bit smaller and there isn''t much going on because I came back late from work. I would try to make tomorrows chapter a little bigger if I came back home at regular time. Anyways Good Night.

 19 Chapter

    ------- Mc¡¯s POV ----------

    Everything was happening just like yesterday, we were being surrounded by the wolves. They are back even after the head of the pack was killed by me. They are thinking of overpowering us with numbers. I know I could hold my own and scare them away, if not kill each and every one of them; but I cannot possibly hope to achieve that while protecting Elena. After yesterday¡¯s demonstration they know very well that Elena is the weakest and according to my prediction, then they will try to distract me while aiming for Elena.

    I stood besides Elena holding the bow; I decided to use bow first and attack over long range and switch to the sword as they neared. I pulled an arrow and aimed at a wolf in a distance. When the arrow left my grip, it made way in the direction of the wolf and missed it by four feet. Elena looked at me in a playful mocking expression. I loaded another arrow and shot it towards another wolf, this time I didn¡¯t just missed the target but the arrow impaled itself on a branch of a tree quite a distance away. A small laugh escaped her mouth.

    ¡°Damm! Something must be wrong with this bow¡± I said in a small tone.

    Elena burst out in laughter.

    We were in middle of a battle for survival with the beast and here she was laughing, thinking it as hilarious. We¡¯ll see what so comical when she comes to me crying again. Sigh¡­ this totally dampens my seriousness. Elena stopped her laugh and stiffened when the wolves started closing in on us. I put on the bow in my shoulder and took the sword out.

    The wolves growled as they neared us. There were almost forty five wolves in my sight. There growls were overshadowed by the howling and whimpers of the wolves caught in my traps.

    Just then I heard a women¡¯s voice coming from a distance ¡°Who disturbs me at this hour, I can¡¯t even sleep peacefully¡±. She said in an irritated tone. I grabbed Elena¡¯s hand and ran in the direction of the voice. I Passed by the wolves, they were confused by the voice from the different direction. By the time they noticed I was a little ahead of them and they started chasing us.

    I saw a shadow and neared it, A women who looked to be about thirty came into view; you can¡¯t call her young and you can¡¯t call her old, she was somewhere in the middle; but what stood out in her appearance was her ample breasts which was further accentuated by the tight revealing outfit she wore. I looked behind her and saw no one else, I thought that she was an adventurer and was hoping that others would be there to help us. After looking around I concluded that she was alone. What a tough luck, now I have to protect another woman.

    She was surprised when she saw us running towards her, but calmed down in a moment. I quickly ran up to her and turned around to confront the wolves. The wolves stopped a distance away evaluation the new addition to our group.

    The women pated on my shoulder and took the bow from my shoulder, I didn¡¯t know what she was going to do with it, but gave it to her as I had no use for it anyway. She drew an arrow without a pause and shot it at a nearby wolf. The wolf tried to jump but it was too late and was killed by the arrow. The wolf dropped dead and both Elena and I were plastered with disbelief on our face. I looked at the women; she simply smiled at me and gave back the bow. Wait if you are so good at using the bow why are you giving it back to me and not killing the wolves.

    As I was looking at her in confusion, she lifted her right hand which was clad with a silver glove having strange markings all over it. The glove extended all the way to her shoulder. She muttered something and I saw it clearly, a big lightning bolt materialized aimed at the direction of the wolves. It stuck the tress in its path and a two of the trees burst into flames. The wolves started running away in fear. I was dumbfounded again. If she you capable of using magic then use is earlier, why show off your archery skills to the envy of others; now my reasoning of bow being not good became totally invalid.

    ¡°Who are you, why are you running around the forest half naked? This is not a place for making out¡± She said in a reprimanding tone.

    Elena became embarrassed and replied quickly ¡°I am Elena and this is Cleon, we are passing thought the forest to reach Hishao village. We are not doing anything indecent¡±

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    ¡°Have you two secretly run away from home? How romantic, Ah.. It¡¯s good to be young, love makes you do stupid things¡± She said without assessing our situation. I was starting to wonder if this woman was right in the head. Is it safe to be near her?

    ¡°We¡­ we are not like that¡± Elena stammered, now beat read from the suggestion.

    ¡°Then are you two stupid, who in their right mind chooses to go through the forest when it¡¯s safe to go around it to reach their destination¡± the women said in a serious tone.

    ¡°We have our circumstance. Thanks for your help, we¡¯ll be on our way now¡± I said to her thinking of getting away from her as soon as possible. I felt a little uneasiness by her stares and wanted to stay away from her.

    ¡°Look at you kids, are you sure you are alright. Torn cloths, on top of that wearing a deer skin that¡¯s going stink like anything and being chased by beasts. Guess I have no choice but take care of you¡± the women said to herself with a fake sigh.

    ¡°Are you even listening to me? I said thank you for your help and we¡¯ll be off on our way¡± I said to her in a loud voice.

    ¡°Now now, Don¡¯t scream in middle of the night, you¡¯ll wake up all the sleeping beasts. Follow me, I live nearby¡± She said in a calm tone.

    I hesitated to follow the woman but looking at the state of Elena I went after the women without saying anything. Elena needs rest and if the wolves attack again then I don¡¯t know if we can defend ourselves. I followed the women reluctantly.

    The women took few steps forward and then said ¡°Ah, where are my manners. I am Lisa by the way, could you be kind enough to carry the wolf I shot earlier¡±

    I reluctantly carried the wolf and started following her. In a few minutes we neared a clearing and I saw a cottage which looked odd in middle of the forest. I deposited the wolf near then cottage and went inside with Elena. The cottage was small with things all over the place. I am sure the place had been neglected by a lazy owner.

    Lisa told us to make ourselves at home and jumped in on a bed to sleep. Seriously, you invite two strangers in your house and the first thing you do is go to sleep?

    I don¡¯t understand this woman at all. She could have killed us anytime she wanted, so I guess it¡¯s safe to assume that she would not sneak attack us while we were asleep.

    I took a thick cloth lying on the floor and spread it in a corner and told Elena to sleep on it. She was baffled by our actions.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think taking other¡¯s stuff without permission is a good behavior. I can sleep on the floor. Is it even alright to sleep in her house without permission¡± Elena was clearly confused as I was.

    ¡°I am just borrowing it. She herself told us to make ourselves at home. Don¡¯t worry about it, sleep peacefully; you are tired and very much in need of proper rest¡± I reassured her.

    I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on but this is a rare opportunity to take a peaceful nap in the forest, so we might as well get one. We¡¯ll be on our way tomorrow. I choose another corner with these thoughts went to sleep.

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    First of all my thanks for the fellow reader who took upon himself to enlighten me with the process of tanning. Even if criticism was the first comment I received I am still happy about it.

    My boss worked me to the bones yesterday as it was the end of the week. I came home late tired like hell and didn''t write anything so here I am posting a chapter earlier in the morning on my holiday (Weekday). See you on Monday.

 20 Chapter

    The first thing I noticed when I woke up was that my body felt heavy. I opened my eyes to find Lisa sitting on my stomach looking at me with a sheepish grin. Crap I let my guard down thinking she won¡¯t attack us when we were asleep and now she¡¯s doing just that.

    I tried to sit but she pushed me down, placing a finger on her mouth and looking me in the eyes she said ¡°Shues.. You¡¯ll wake up her. I just wanted to have some fun. Judging by this, you seems to be excited as well and are ready to go¡± She glided her finger at my crotch.

    I got goosebumps all over my body, throwing her off me I stood up quickly.

    ¡°Ouch¡­ Now don¡¯t be impatient, it¡¯s no good to be rough from the start¡± she said smiling at me.

    Elena woke up from the noise and asked in panic ¡°What¡¯s happened, are we being attacked?¡±

    ¡°Nothing, Lisa woke me up and I mistook her for some animal and pushed her away¡± I said to Elena in a flustered tone, hiding the reaction in my bottom.

    ¡°What a letdown and I was hoping to enjoy myself first thing in the morning¡± Lisa said in a disappointed tone. Crap, this woman is dangerous in more than one way.

    I went outside the cottage to clam myself. My heart was beating hard and I somehow felt violated. I stood there outside looking at the forest. It was really beautiful to look at, the morning rays coming from the forest like divine light making way through obstacles. The wolf¡¯s corpse I brought yesterday was missing; maybe some animal dragged it away. Why did Lisa made me carry the corpse here anyway, I was able to find the answer to my question sooner than I thought.

    I went a little further to explore our surroundings and came across what looked like a circle with complex patterns and symbols drawn in blood. I found six such circles surrounding the boundaries of the cottage. After walking a bit more and finding nothing else I returned to the cottage to get some answers.

    Once inside, I heard Elena chatting with Lisa in what looked like a small kitchen. I sat in the corner looking at them while both women prepared the breakfast. After eating Lisa asked Elena to take a bath with her, it seems there was a river nearby. I didn¡¯t want Elena be out of my sight, but she was a girl and I can¡¯t be around her when she takes a bath.

    ¡°What is this¡­. You look like you want to peep on us¡± Lisa said looking at the complicated expression on my face.

    ¡°What, No! I was just thinking whether it would be safe to bathe in the river¡± I exclaimed, this woman was hell bent on trampling my image.

    Both of them left the cottage and I sat there contemplating whether it was good idea to follow this woman to her house.

    I took the demonic book and started reading again. What interested me was the topic, practical ability to manipulate demonic power. Most of the beginners column were filled with theories and small ways to test the conformance of the powers but as I skipped to the advanced column, I came across a ranged attack power called dark pierce which used energy to create arrows of darkness to strike multiple enemies.

    Earlier I confirmed that I was not possessed by any demon with the help of the book, but still it didn¡¯t explain the black globe which was absorbed by my body every time I kill something. I still felt some kind of connection to the demonic book so I thought of trying out this dark pierce attack. I went outside and positioned myself before a tree; I followed the instructions stated in the demonic book. Closing my eyes I concentrated on the boundless darkness in front of me, I imagined the darkness taking over me and felt something envelop my entire body. I slowly opened my eyes and saw that I was covered in translucent layer of black light. I concentrated on the tree before me and started chanting the words mentioned in the book but before I could even complete half the chant, a big black light emerged out of nowhere before my body and pierced it¡¯s way though several trees with a loud noise as it made its way into the forest. Immediately I felt my body lighten and fell on my knees. Before I could make out what had happened, I lost my consciousness.

    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    I woke up to find myself sleeping on the bed and Elena seated beside me on a chair.

    ¡°How are you feeling now¡± She asked me with a worried expression.

    ¡°I guess I am alright¡± I said to her and she relaxed a little. She was wearing a beautiful blue dress which made her look gorgeous. The dress looked really expensive.

    I checked my pocket and sure the Demonic book was gone.

    ¡°Elena, did you take my book. It was bound in red color cloth¡± I asked Elena.

    ¡°Here it is. It was interesting to read but too troublesome to practice¡± Lisa tossed me the book.

    I checked the Demonic book and made sure that everything was fine. I was surprised that Lisa gave it back to me even after studying it; she was rather clam about it.

    ¡°So you are a demonic mage, what is the demon that you are contracted with?¡± Lisa asked me with a quizzical look.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t enter into contract with any demon. I came across the book a few days ago and was curious about it.¡± I said to her truthfully.

    ¡°Elena told me all about your circumstances, but don¡¯t think that a witch could mistake demonic powers for something else. You flattened half a kilometer area and still expect me to believe that it¡¯s not demonic power. It was mistake to save you in the first place; it doesn¡¯t end well for the people around those possessed by demons.¡± Lisa said in a serious tone.

    ¡°I am not possessed by any demon, I verified it from the book¡± I said to her, irritated at the suggestion that I would harm Elena.

    ¡°Is that so, we¡¯ll see about that¡± Lisa said and with a serious expression motioned Elena to stay back. Elena had a worried expression and seemed to be struggling with deciding what she should do.

    Lisa came forward and placed her hand on my chest. She started whispering something and after a few seconds the marking on her glove glowed white, with a flash my entire chest was clad in bright white light. After a few seconds the white light dimmed and completely vanished.

    Lisa breathed a sigh of relief and said ¡°True, you are not possessed by any demon. I verified it using divine enchantment.¡±

    ¡°I already told you so. I don¡¯t know why I am capable of such powers but I am sure that I am not possessed by any demon. I have this strange feeling that nothing is capable of possessing my body.¡± I said to her.

    I pocketed the Demonic book then looked at Lisa with a serious expression and said ¡°Now that you know about us and its clear that I am not possessed. I think we also have the right to receive some explanations. Why a women such as yourself lives in middle of the forest. What was the power you used yesterday to chase away the wolves, what are the strange symbols that are drawn in blood surrounding the cottage and what do you mean by the ¡®witch¡¯ you said earlier?¡±

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    I know I told earlier that I''ll be back only on Monday but I had free time and hence wrote another chapter, I don''t think anybody would complain. As I mentioned earlier, traditional art is my specialty. I was thinking about drawing and posting some art work. Can someone tell me if it''s possible to insert art in the chapter and how to do so. Thanks for reading.

 21 Chapter

    -------Lisa¡¯s POV------

    I don¡¯t know if I can trust these people. From what Elena described, she seems to be an average girl but on the other hand I only know the things she said about Cleon. He said that don¡¯t know about his identity, It¡¯s hard to make out whether it¡¯s true or not but he could have said that he¡¯s just a commoner instead of saying that he doesn¡¯t remember about himself which itself looks a bit suspicious. Either he thinks people could be fooled by such a obnoxious lie or he is really telling the truth. I think I¡¯ll take my chance and believe him; I''ve got no other choice anyway.

    Both Cleon and Elena were staring at me. I finished questioning Cleon and now he¡¯s the one interrogating me.

    I looked at Cleon and said ¡°I have no problem in answering your question, but it¡¯s upto you whether to believe it or not¡±

    He didn¡¯t say anything and I continued

    ¡°My full name is Elisabeth de Evreux, I am the Princess of Gliania. I was a child the king had with his concubine. After the death of the Queen, the king took my mother as a concubine. I was raised as though a real princess albeit being born of a concubine. The queen had two sons before her death. Growing up in the Royal family my step brothers got intoxicated by their position and privilege and power. My step-brothers didn¡¯t like my father very much as father was always criticizing them for their behaviors, my father also favored me over them which further infuriated them.

    One day my father called me to his chambers and with a sorrowful expression he told me that my brothers are not fit to succeed the throne. He then told me that he has decided to make me the queen and that I should choose an appropriate king. I was initially reluctant to agree to such a preposterous suggestion but my father was reluctant and I had to abide his decision. After a month my father made the announcement in the throne room shocking everyone present. Both my step brothers were shocked and protested endlessly. Father heard none of it and was firm in his decision.

    That day was start of my misfortunes. My brothers started courting me hoping to ascend the throne. They put their men to spy on me and my activities. Their possessiveness went to such lengths that they secretly assassinated the men I associated with, even the florist that I occasionally talked with while buying flowers was not spared. I distanced myself from my Step brothers and even avoided seeing them. Sometimes their frustration rose to such heights that they even tried to assassinate me on multiple occasions. I was able to impede their attempts because I knew witchcraft which my grandmother taught me as I was growing up coupled with the magic training I had from the best instructors of the Royal family.

    I frequently visited neighboring towns and villages as an envoy to distance myself from my brothers. While on such a visit to a remote village, I was informed that father had been killed in his bed chambers. I rushed to the castle only to be obstructed from seeing my father. My brothers had instructed them not to let me see fathers body until I had talked with them. I was furious at their impudence. I was led to the throne room where my bothers sat on the throne. It seems both my brothers had formed some sort of alliance while I was away. I asked them what this was about and elder brother spoke to me.

    He told me that I had to marry him else face the consequences. I told him that I wouldn''t marry him even if he was last man alive in the country. I was now the queen of the country and the positions of my brothers are beneath me, they cannot force me to obey them. I thought I had the upper hand, but my brothers¡¯ calmness was rather foreboding. He told me that I would regret my decision and left the throne room followed by the younger brother. After that I was allowed to see my father. I stayed by my father¡¯s side until he was entombed.

    Immediately after the burial of my father, Soldiers surrounded me. My Elder brother announced that I was charged with heresy for practicing witchcraft. Sure witchcraft was condemned by the masses but nowhere was it deemed guilty for prosecution. I protested because my bother neither had authority nor the legality to take action against me. He laughed maniacally and told me that Father passed the law on the day he died; he further explained that he is to act as an authority under law of succession until I was coronated according to fathers'' will. He told me to plead guilty and petition for mercy before the throne.  By the collative decision of advisors and the Royal family, If was granted mercy I was to be dethroned otherwise I would be burned at stake before the masses.

    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    I knew that my fate was sealed either way. My brother was a scheming man and I knew that I would be granted mercy only if I agreed to marry him. I ran¡­ ran as fast as I could from the very country I was to rule. My brothers reluctant to let me escape commissioned mages after me, I escaped into this forest and was sealed here by magic of the five powerful mages.

    It¡¯s been seven years since I had been sealed. The magic is such that it doesn¡¯t let me leave the forest not does it let me come into contact with others. If others were to near me or I near them, the forest would create such circumstances that would prevent me from contacting them. I lead a lonely life for the past seven years doing nothing but strengthening my magic. That¡¯s why I was surprised on seeing both of you, I thought that the seal had weakened and tested it this morning by trying to find a new path of exit but failed. After seeing that you had demon book I thought that you were possessed by a demon which would explain why the seal didn¡¯t held against you but now that conclusion is also out of the question.

    I used the blood of the wolf you carried yesterday to create a spell to protect the cottage against the beasts that wander nearby. Those circles are part of the spell. That is conclusion of my story and I believe I have answered all your question¡±

    ------MC¡¯s POV------

    I listened to the entire story patiently. It¡¯s hard to imagine herself as a princess given her behavior but I can''t blame her after having lived so long out of the reach of society. Sealed by magic hun.. Can¡¯t come into contact with other humans? They why was we able to meet her. The more I try to make sense of things, the more the questions pop up. For now I have to believe her story, she doesn¡¯t have any benefit in deceiving us.

    I looked at her for a few seconds and the asked ¡±Is there any way to break the spell?¡±

    ¡°If there was then I would¡¯ve gone from this place long ago.¡± She replied to me.

    There was a silence for a few seconds then she continued ¡°I believe that the spell could be broken by casting counter spell by the mages that casted the spell in the first place¡±

    ¡°Does it have to be the same people who casted the spell or someone else could cast the counter spell¡± I asked her.

    ¡°I believe it had to be the same mages, the sealing spell they used is quite complicated and it takes their aura into account. The chances of others destroying the seal is almost negligible¡± she told me in a depressed tone.

    We stood there for several minutes until Lisa went to cook. I sat there procession this new pieces of information. If all that she said is true then Lisa is indeed in need of help, least she die alone in a place such as this. I wanted to help her if I could but I don¡¯t think that I have the persuasive powers to convince the mages to undo the spells, ofcourse that comes after finding all of them. Heck I don¡¯t even know who they are to begin with.

    Sigh.. Lisa maybe the most unfortunate among us. Atleast me and Elena can move forward and face our problems but Lisa, She¡¯s stuck here in this forest with no way of escape. Seven years¡­ seven years of solitary life, I don¡¯t know if I could even stay sane in such a situation.

    -------------------------------------------------------------------

    Sorry for the delay but I have got a perfect reason for my tardiness and that is the Art work I promised the other day. I was so engrossed while doing the art that I forgot to write a chapter. I love art so much and when I am at it I tend to forget things around me. Do check out the Art work which I am going to post in a few minutes as a next chapter. Let me know if you like that version of Elena.

 Illustration 1 - Elena

    Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!<hr />

    It was a pain in the ass to upload this pic. I just wish RR interface was simple enough like FB which is just click, select and upload. Anyways do let me know what do you think about Elena.

 22 Chapter

    I woke up again feeling heavy, I knew what was to come after that. I opened my eyes to see that just like yesterday Lisa was sitting on my stomach, looking at me with a sheepish grin. I laid there without moving a muscle. After getting to know her, I was sure she lacked the courage to proceed further.

    Lisa bent over in an attempt to kiss me; I reconsidered my analysis but did nothing to stop her. Her face was so close to mine that I could feel her breath. She then shifted her face to my right ear and said in a seductive tone ¡°Don¡¯t you feel the urge to make love to the beautiful women in front of you¡±

    I stiffened from her tone but knew that it had more desperation than love or affection. I pushed her down and then shifted my body. Now I was the one upon her. I closed in on her face and just like she did, turned towards her ear and whispered in her ear ¡°Yes I do¡±

    I leaned again to her face and then bend down to kiss her neck; she shivered and then went stiff. I continued to place a few more kisses on her neck slowly going down towards her breasts. She jerked and then pushed me away. I was surprised that she held out so long. She sat there looking at me in the eyes; tears started flowing out and made their way to her chin. She looked down and covered her face in shame. I grabbed her hands and removed them from her face; she looked at me still sobbing. I don¡¯t know why but I am weak against a crying woman and every time that happens it gets troublesome for me.

    Lisa said while sobbing ¡°You guys are leaving, I thought maybe like this I could persuade you to stay or to come back after seeing off Elena to her village or atleast try to have a baby so that I could look forward to something in life. I don¡¯t think I can go on like this any longer. I want to talk, I want to be heard, I want to listen. I just want to live again like a human.¡±

    It¡¯s scary what loneliness can do even to someone like a princess, going such lengths as sleeping with a stranger so as to bear a child that could keep her company. Desperation can make a person do surprising things. In front of me there was no proud princess, no strong mage or a crafty witch. There was only a woman who had lost her fight against time and desperately looking for a reason to carry on.

    For a few minutes we stayed in the same position. I considered what I should tell her, then I finally decided and said to her in a sincere tone ¡°You shouldn¡¯t stoop so low, afterall you are a princess of a country. I have decided that I am going to help you get out of the forest. Just bear with it for a while. I will come back for you, if I couldn¡¯t find a way to get you out of the forest. I promise that I will stay with you for the rest of your life¡±

    I said that on the spur of the moment, nonetheless I said it all without hesitation and determined to carry it though.

    Lisa calmed down a little and looking at me she smiled and said ¡°It makes me really happy to hear those words even if you didn¡¯t mean them. I am happy that I could meet you two before I die.¡±

    ¡°I meant every word I said. I will come for you, will have to see if you are strong as you claim and survive this forest until then. Also I have taken an interest in that witchcraft of yours, I hope you can teach me some of it when I get back.¡± I replied to her placing my hand on top of hers.

    Lisa was still smiling at me and slowly that smile became a happy laughter and then without warning she hugged me tightly, she held on to me for a while.

    Elena woke up just then and was shocked to see us in that position. ¡°What¡­ What are you doing?¡± she stammered.

    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think.. it¡¯s just.. it¡¯s just¡­¡± words failed to come out of my mouth, coupled with the fact that I was almost making out with Lisa a few minutes ago; made me a little bit guilty.

    ¡°I was just teaching him how to be aggressive, that¡¯s all. Living with a girl alone for several days and didn¡¯t even try to coup a feel. Don¡¯t you think he would lose his manliness like that?¡± Lisa teased us both, now back in her usual state.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.. Being a man has nothing to do with being shameless. If you¡¯ll excuse me I will go prepare the breakfast¡± Elena quickly made her way to the kitchen.

    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

    I sat there feeling as dumb as a rock. May be getting Lisa out of the forest would be like unleashing horror upon the society. Explain this to Elena is going to be tough. Wait why I am even thinking that I need to prove my innocence to her. It feels like I have cheated on her even though we are nothing but strangers on a journey together.

    Lisa stood up, patted my head and made her way to the kitchen to join Elena.

    The day went by without anything unusual. Elena was now avoiding me, Somehow I feel that she¡¯s is a little mad at me. I went to sleep with determination to wake up before Lisa, so as to not give her a chance to strike again.

    The next day I woke up earlier than planned. I double checked our preparations for departure. After a few minutes Lisa came to me and gave me some big leaves. She told me that the smell of the leaves will keep small predators away and suggested that we should rub the paste on our hands and legs to keep us safe. I accepted them and stored them in our bags.

    After breakfast both me and Elena started our journey after saying goodbye to Lisa. I once again told Lisa to wait for me and that I would be back for her as promised, I didn¡¯t want her to slip into despair and take extreme measures.

    Things were a little awkward again between me and Elena, she didn¡¯t look at me while talking. We cleared the river and after walking a little distance took rest and ate lunch.

    ¡°You know there¡¯s nothing between me and Lisa, she was just teasing me. You don¡¯t have to act like I took advantage of her¡± I said to her trying to clear my name.

    ¡°Yeh.. Lisa told me about it but that¡¯s not what¡¯s bothering me. You promised her that you would be back for her and live together with her if unable to get her out of there, I just feel like I am causing trouble by making you accompany me. If not for me you could have helped her without any delay¡± Elena said in a troubled tone.

    ¡°I promised you first that I would help you reach your village, I would not go back on my promise to help others. Getting you safely to your village is my top priority¡± I said to her to put her mind as ease.

    ¡°But she is a princess.. I am just a commoner. I am not worthy enough to make the princess wait¡± Elena said dejectedly.

    ¡°There you go demeaning yourself again. To me princess, commoner, noble are all the same. I will not differentiate any human based on their status and power. You are as deserving of help as is the princess, I would not put anyone before you. You have to be a little selfish at times otherwise you would be taken advantage of or face misfortunes. Promise me that you will not consider yourself any less than others. Promise me that you would be selfish at times and stand for yourself. I am not going to all this trouble just for you to end up in a tragedy. As things stands now, I won¡¯t be able to calm down after leaving you. Promise that for my sake to put my mind at ease.¡± I said to Elena concerned that her sympathetic nature would wound her in trouble again.

    Elena looked at me and then nodded in affirmation.

    ¡°I promise that I would protect myself and try put my needs before others, afterall I cannot disappoint my savior¡± She said with a smile.

    Things were normal again between me and Elena, just like it was before meeting Lisa. I don¡¯t know when I would be able to come back to this forest. I wonder if Lisa would be alright. I dispelled the thought as I knew she is a strong woman. A few more months were nothing compared to the years she had spent alone in the forest.

    -----------------------------------------------

    Both Elena and Lisa are beautiful women who were helped by the MC in their time of need. I wonder if MC would end up with one of them or someone else. We¡¯ll just have to wait and see. Good Night and enjoy the chapter.

 23 Chapter

    Elena and I made our way through the forest. For two days we didn¡¯t encounter any beasts probably because of the leaves provided by Lisa. On the first day, I had a little problem while hunting; as the creatures were repulsed by the smell. After learning the reason I made Elena use the leaves and by such an arrangement we were able avoid running into the beasts and  while hunting I would move a little farther than Elena so as to not repel the creatures from me.

    On the third day an enormous cave came into our view. I decided to check it out as a potential resting place. We were tired from sleeping outside as we had to be on our guard all the time. The leaves gave us protection against small beasts but not against the big ones which had strong will. Elena advised me against it, she said that a cave as big as that was bound to be occupied by something. I assured her that we would just check it out and in case there was something we could always run away; but if we didn¡¯t check it out, we would regret losing a good resting place. Elena followed me into the cave still worried.

    The first thing we noticed inside the cave was the change in temperature; it was relatively hotter inside the cave. As we made further into the cave, a sound which was like a small waterfall came from a distance. I was curious and proceeded further enthusiastically. What came into view was a small pond with water flowing from top of the cave and a big nest near the pond in which there were two big eggs. They were greenish gray in color; I was delighted upon seeing them. I went and took one of them and it felt heavy. I turned and look at Elena and with a happy tone proclaimed to her that we would be having a delicious dinner. There were two eggs; we could even boil one of them as there was no shortage of water in this place. Just as I was about to grab another egg and leave, a loud roar came from the entrance of the cave. Shit, looks like the mother was back. I put the egg back into its place as Elena grabbed and pulled me away from the nest.

    I was a bit reluctant to part ways with what looked like a delicious meal. I took out my sword and was ready to engage into battle for the right to earn the food. Elena pulled me out of the cave hurriedly, condemning me for what I was about to do. The roars came near and we duct in the crevice on a side wall and watched in horror as a big dragon flew by. We fled out of the cave as fast as possible; we could still hear the threatening roars of the creature coming from inside the cave. After putting a safe distance we relaxed a bit. Elena looked at me disapprovingly. What did she expected a man to do in face of a delicious meal. We took rest for the day soon after.

    After walking a few miles we came across a group of men who looked like thugs. They were carrying big swords and other weapons. We quickly hid ourselves as soon as I spotted them and were lucky enough to avoid detection. After they passed us we continued our journey. I was cautious and was on a look out for any other approaching humans. Over the course of my journey, I have learned that human¡¯s can be much more cruel than any beasts and hence wanted to avoid them till we get out of the forest.

    After three days of walking, we finally came upon a clearing and beyond that there were grasslands. We walked further and came across a girl who was a shepherd. She had brought her cattle to graze in these lands. We got direction to Elena¡¯s village and proceeded in its direction.

    There were bunch of trees in our path, I told Elena stay hidden among them and explained to her that I will check out if it was safe and then come back to get her. I approached the village and saw that it was guarded by few guards. The guards stopped me from entering the village and asked me a few questions. I lied to them that I was a researcher from Gliania, they asked me to prove my identity. For a moment I hesitated and then took out the leaves given by Lisa, I told them it¡¯s about it and demonstrated its properties on a dog. By seeing the reaction of the dog, the guards believed me and I was allowed to enter the village. I sensed that something was amiss as there were six guards in the entrance which was unusual for such a small village.

    I walked into the village and felt a tense atmosphere, I saw a few more guards near a big house and went in that direction. I guessed that it must be the Chief¡¯s house. I slowed down my pace and stooped near another house where an old man was chopping wood. I said hello and offered assistance to the old man, he was reluctant at first but agree after I persisted. With my strength, I easily cut down the big logs into small pieces. I had small talk with the old man and tried to gain information on the current situation.

    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.     He told me that one of the women residing in the village killed a few people of the town a few years ago and now her daughter had killed a noble. The daughter is on the run and the guards are keeping an eye on her mother just in case the daughter comes back. Both the mother and daughter are pronounced guilty and are to be decapitated. I asked the old man if the chief was in his house and he told me that no one from the chief¡¯s house was allowed to step outside the house till the guards find the escaped daughter. I finished cutting all the logs within an hour and then made my way to the chief¡¯s house.

    It was a right decision to leave Elena and come here first to check things out.

    I was stopped by the guards before I could near the chief¡¯s house.

    ¡°No one is allowed to enter the chief¡¯s house without permission¡± one of the guard said standing in front of me.

    ¡°Such insolence, I Cleon does not need permission to enter. Who is in charge of you fools call him immediately¡± I said in an arrogant tone.

    The guard looked at me now unsure how to proceed and then replied ¡°The captain is out on patrol, he would be back in a few hours¡±

    ¡°Slacking off on job hum.. and obstructing me, that is more than enough reason to get him beheaded. Listen well. I am a dark arts researcher associated with the Royal family of Gliania. I have come here to take some men to escort me into the Gratel forest for my research. Go and tell your chief that if he doesn''t come see me in an hour, he won¡¯t be able to keep his head¡± I told them with an arrogant expression.

    The guards still didn¡¯t move, plagued by indecision.

    ¡°Looks like you imbeciles wouldn''t believe without a little demonstration, very well¡± I said closing my eyes and concentrating for a second. A small black ball materialized in front of me. I extended my hand and the ball hit the guard who was questioning me. As soon as he came into contact with the ball, his face contorted in horror and with a shrill shriek he faded from existence. Nothing remained in the place he once stood, not even the grass below his feet. Everything happened so fast, that it took a few seconds to illicit a reaction from the remaining guards. They all panicked and took a few steps back.

    ¡°Now, does anybody else require a demonstration? If not then better get me your captain¡± I threatened them and they fled like chicken.

    A few villagers were watching the commotion and as soon as they say what I did to the guard, they all scrambled into their houses. I walked towards the chief¡¯s house and then knocked on the door.

    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    First of all I would like to thank all the reader of the story.

    The ratings for this story came down to three stars. If there is something wrong with the story, I requested on multiple occasions to point me in the right direction. I even said that I welcomed suggestions. Instead people are giving low ratings without a proper reason which makes other potential readers shun the story. I agree that the story I write is not like the VMMRO where the MC could do anything and everything he wants neither does it has the cool MC that brings death left and right which seems to be the current trend.

    I am doing my best and the only thing I ask in return is to educate me of my shortcomings as I gain nothing else from spending time writing the story. I feel really unmotivated now and may slow down the pace of writing or stop altogether if the ratings go any lower without a proper reason. It is better to write nothing than to write some crap, Right?

 24 Chapter

    When the door opened I saw a little girl before me, she had the same eyes as Elena so I guessed that she must be her little sister. She looked at me for a second and then lowered her gaze to my hands; did she expected me to bring something. I could tell she was disappointed with me for some reason.

    ¡°Can I talk to the Chief¡± I asked her politely with a smile.

    She started running inside while shouting ¡°Grandpa someone is here to see you¡±

    I went inside instead of waiting for someone to show up. The first thing I came across was a dining room coupled with a kitchen. A woman was seated there in a chair. As soon as she saw me she stood up in alarm.

    ¡°Who are you? You guards promised that you won¡¯t bother us without a reason¡± She said in an agitated tone.

    ¡°I came here with the news regarding your daughter. No need to be so alarmed¡± I assured her.

    Just then an old man and old women came into the room.

    ¡°What about my daughter. Is she safe? Did they capture her? Where is she?¡± the women started firing a series of questions at me.

    ¡°Calm down Hellen, guards outside will hear you¡± said the Chief to calm her.

    ¡°Ah.. There¡¯s no need to worry about them, I just sent them on a little errand. They will be back soon so I would like to explain even thing before they arrive.¡± I said to the old man who was now cautions after hearing that I have sent the guards on errand.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± The old man asked me with a worried expression.

    ¡°It doesn''t matter who I am. Elena is outside the village; I told her to stay there and came here to check things out. I accompanied her to the village.¡± I said looking at the old man.

    Suddenly Hellen sprang on me and grabbed my shoulders ¡°Where is my daughter, please bring her to me. I beg you.. Please¡± she then slumped down and grabbing my legs while sobbing.

    I felt pity for her situation; she was old enough to be my mother¡¯s age. Yet here she was grabbing the legs and begging a person who is not much older than her own daughter. I grabbed her shoulder and then raised her. I looked at her and

    told her that I would bring her daughter back at any cost. I told her not to worry and wait patiently for her daughter.

    The old man interfered me and said ¡°Don¡¯t bring her here. The captain is waiting for her and as soon as she comes, he will take both her and Hellen into custody and take them to Levylon for execution¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I have something special planned for the Captain. I promised to protect Elena and would see it though¡± I said in a firm tone.

    There was a knock on the door and the old man went to see who it was. He came back with a big bulky man in armor and two other guards. The man was heinous to look at with scares all over his face.

    ¡°I heard your Sire is here on business. I am the captain of the guards of Levylon. I am extremely sorry for not being here to receive you, Pardon me for my rudeness. As a loyal servant of his highness I shall serve you with all my strength.¡± The Captain said while placing the right hand to his shoulder.

    ¡°You came at the right moment. This chief here told me that there are no decent men in the village to escort me to the forest. I¡¯ll have you and your men escort me to the forest.¡± I said to him now changing my voice into an arrogant tone.

    ¡°Forgive me for my impudence but we cannot leave this village. We are assisting a diplomat of Levylon on a mission and abandoning it would harm our trade ties. I request your sire to take few men from the village along with a few guards. I will personally assist you in choosing appropriate men to accompany you¡± The captain said to me.

    I stared at him for a moment and then started walking towards the door ¡°Very well, I never thought that a mere captain of Levylon denying an order directly from a subordinate of the Royal family. You can start digging your grave along with that diplomat in his foreign soil. There is no place in this country for the graves of rebels and possible spies of other countries.¡±

    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    I slammed the door behind my back and left the house. I walked a few steps when the Captain came running towards me.

    ¡°Sire, please wait. I did not intend to disrespect you or the Royal family. If I had known that it was such an important mission then I would have never opened my mouth. I would comply with your every command and immediately arrange the guards to accompany you. I myself would guard you to ensure your safety. Please don¡¯t take my rudeness to heart¡± The captain said in a fearful tone. Funny what a little bit of authority can do.

    After a few minutes we were on our way out of the village. The captain told me that he would arrange for horses for us to ride. I denied him telling that bringing along horses would impede our journey into the forest.

    ¡°Your sire, May I know what is your purpose for visiting the forest¡± The Captain asked me hesitantly.

    ¡°It is said that there¡¯s a dragon in the forest, we are going to confirm those rumors and observe it¡¯s behavior if we came across it¡± I said to the captain pretending to be displeased by his questioning.

    The guards started murmuring among themselves.

    ¡°I heard the rumors that his highness was interested in the dragon for some time. Wouldn¡¯t it be better for the knights of the capital to carry out the mission? My men are not strong enough to withstand the attacks of a dragon¡± The captain said in a pleading tone.

    ¡°The knights are already stationed in the forest. Due to some preparations I was delayed and told the knights and other mages to go ahead of me. Your mission ends after I regroup with the knights, you may very well return after that.¡± I replied to him which satisfied the Captain and clear any lingering doubts he had about me.

    I led them straight towards the place where Elena was hiding. I saw Elena sitting under a tree looking at the flowers before her.

    As soon as the Captain saw Elena he stopped in his tracks and then shouted on top of his lungs ¡°Men, Capture her. Don¡¯t let her get away¡±

    The guards started running in Elena¡¯s direction and soon captured her. Elena resisted for a few a whiles but she quit her struggle when she saw me.

    The Captain was the only one who was still besides me, all the guards were a few distance away securing Elena. I drew my sword and quickly placed it on the Captain¡¯s neck.

    The Captain and the guards were surprised by my action but stood there motionless.

    ¡°Drop your weapons or else you¡¯d be carrying back a headless Captain¡± I told them in a loud voice,

    The guards stood there without moving. I inched the sword into the Captain¡¯s skin and blood dripped down his neck showing them that I was serious.

    ¡°Drop your weapons now. Do as he says dammit.¡± The captain screamed on top of his lungs. I took the Captains sword and knife with my other hand and threw it away at a distance.

    I formed a black ball of energy and pointed it at the captain.¡±Release the girl and get on your knees.¡±

    After being release Elena ran upto me and stood behind my back. The guards dropped their weapons and knelt on the ground as ordered. I told them to group together on their knees and they complied.

    I extended my hand towards the kneeling guards and concentrated. The black energy grew big and I released it in their direction. An explosion sounded out as all the guards and the tree behind them were blown into pieces. It happened so fast that even Elena was surprised. I quickly turned my sword and with the hilt of the sword hit the head of the Captain with force. With a grunt the Captain fell on the ground unconscious.

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    Here''s another chapter. I know that the pace of the chapters has become slow but I don''t want to rush and make a mess. My main focus is on the developing the characters and giving an appropriate background to the things to come in future. If you feel anything is bad or not to your liking, let me know so that I can learn and grow to write better stories. I request you not to give very low ratings without giving a proper reason.

 25 Chapter

    As soon as the Captain was knocked out, I firmly tied him to one of the trees. I asked Elena if she wanted to avenge her mother. She didn¡¯t say anything and stood there silently. I took that as a no and proceeded to collect all the remaining pieces of the guards I just blew up. I placed the remains at the feet of the captain to make him despair. I bound the Captain¡¯s mouth tightly so that he may not call for help. After making sure that the binds held tightly and removing anything that would aid in his escape. I went along with Elena to her village.

    Two guards were still left behind to watch over the entrance of the village. I went near them. They recognized me and asked ¡°Didn¡¯t the Captain accompanied you somewhere. Why are you back alone and who is the girl behind you¡± There were being cautious even when I portrayed myself as an authoritative figure. Humans do have a sense of impending danger.

    Without saying a word I drew my sword and with a horizontal slash killed a guard. The other guard drew his sword and I bend down and slashed his feet. He fell to the ground unable to stand, Blood was pouring out of his legs. He was still holding onto his sword, so I didn¡¯t bother getting near him. I took a big rock which was lying at the side and threw it at him. He blocked it with his sword but the weight of the rock still crushed him. He was still breathing; I took another rock and used it to crush his head. His death was gruesome, I didn¡¯t realized it until Elena screamed and closed her eyes.

    I didn¡¯t felt any regret on killing someone, on the contrary I felt happy and more powerful when I kill. May be because of the energy I derive out of killing, it was like a second source of food for me. But it not like I was overcome with blood-lust, killing once in a while was enough to quell my appetite.

    I led Elena into the village. I was surprised that even with the commotion and the scream none of the villagers came out to investigate. We went straight to the Chief¡¯s house.

    The door opened immediately after I knocked once. Elena¡¯s mother stood there and as soon as she saw Elena she came out, hugged her and started crying. Elena too was crying upon seeing her mother.

    The Chief came out next and he dragged both of them in the house. I followed them to the dining room.

    Elena¡¯s mother was crying I could hear her say ¡°Elena, My daughter you are back.¡± The mother and daughter were in their own world and didn¡¯t care who saw them in such a state.

    After witnessing the emotional reunion I started going back to the door. I didn¡¯t want to see Elena while I depart. I am sure it would be emotionally taxing for both of us after staying together for such a long time. I was quietly making myself to the door when I heard a noise of someone running in my direction.

    It was the little girl, Elena¡¯s sister. She came upto me and extended her hand. There was something in her hand. Something like a little bread.

    ¡°Strawberry cupcake, my favorite; Thank you bringing big sister back¡± She said and before I could decline she put it in my hand and ran inside. I came out of the village with a cupcake in hand.

    I went back to where I tied the Captain. The Captain was looking in my direction. He was not able to see clearly who I was and hence started calling out In muffled grunts.

    I went near him and removed the cloth In his mouth to let him speak. He looked at me and shouted ¡°You, what have you done. Killed all the guards. Even if you are associated with royalty, you will not be pardoned for your crimes.¡±

    I didn''t respond to his yelling. I just looked at him with indifference. ¡°Are you listening to me? Let me go you bastard. I will personally testify what happened her and make sure you are executed¡± he continued his banter.

    I picked up one of the guard¡¯s head lying at his feet and threw it at his face. It slammed him and the blood smeared on his face. In a few moments I saw multiple expressions on his face, There was shock, disgust, anger, fear and anxiety.

    Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!

    I went a few feet away from him and sat under a tree. I took out the cup cake and had a small bite out of it.

    ¡°This is really delicious, Do you know why? It¡¯s smooth, creamy and has a sweet taste, it also leaves a good after taste. It¡¯s not delicious just because it¡¯s tasty, it¡¯s delicious because it has the gratitude of an innocent child with it. Nothing taste better than something which is given to you in heartfelt appreciation.¡± I said while finishing the cake.

    I stood up and went up to him ¡°It¡¯s one of the pleasurable things in life. Do you know what else is pleasing¡±

    I kicked him hard on the groin ¡°kicking the hell out of the scums like you and yeh that one was for the proposition you made to Hellen to sell herself to you and your men¡±

    He screamed in pain. I bound his entire body to the tree, hence he didn''t get a chance to defend himself. I waited for a few more minutes until his pain subside and then slapped him hard on both cheeks ¡°That was for framing her with murder and driving her away from her home¡±

    I paused again for a few seconds than grabbed his hair and banged his head on the tree trunk multiple time ¡°That was for selling off Elena to some fucking bastards¡± I was filled with rage but stopped myself after a few more banging so as not to kill him. I distanced myself from him once again and sat in my earlier position.

    ¡°Isn''t it a fitting end for you, like demon torturing a soul in hell¡± I said to him and then took out the demon book and started turning pages until I came upon the topic I wanted to read.

    -----Ritual to awaken a demon and perform demonic possession---

    To summon a demon upon this plane, six circles with runic patterns are drawn with blood surrounding a big circle in which the demon is to be summoned. Then several sacrifices are made in the six circles. The number of sacrifices depend on the type of demon to be summoned. After appropriate sacrifices are made, summoning spell is casted by the summoner. This completes the summoning ritual and the demon emerges in the summoning circle. The demon cannot exist on its own in this plane and hence the summoner cuts his hand and offers his blood to the demon. The demon then take possession of the summoner who offered his blood thereby creating a parasitic relationship between the demon and the summoner.

    To clear my doubts I wanted to test this theory. I stood up again and approached the Captain. On seeing me approaching him, the Captain started pleading and telling me how he regretted doing all the bad things he did. He told me that he would give them all money if I released him. As if money would clear him of all the awful things he did to them.

    ¡°You are not feeling enough regret, not yet¡±. I took out a knife and cut his wrist, blood started flowing out of it. I cupped a little blood in my hand and drank it. It was sweet and tasted good. I cut the ropes binding him to the tree. I immediately grabbed his neck so as to not let him escape. I looked into his eyes and memories started flooding into me. It was like living another life, I saw all the things he experienced, all the places he¡¯s been, all the interactions he had and all the crimes he did. Then I opened my eyes to find myself in his body. I had bulky muscles, broad chest and was few inches higher than I previously was. I felt the Captains soul bound inside the body and was struggling in agony.

    ¡°Well what do you know, Now his soul is literally being tortured by a demon¡± I said to myself.

    My new body¡¯s wounds (The Captains body) started healing and I stood there feeling as fresh as before. I took my sword, demon book and few other knives and started walking towards Levylon.

    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Here''s an extra long chapter for you guys. Will be back after the weekend with another chapter and an art work. Let me know if you guys prefer me doing the art work or else don''t need me to do any art work. I do like doing art, but if you guys don''t like having the illustrations then I won''t spend my time doing it.

 Illustration 2 - Fight with the Big Wolf

    Cleon fight with the Wolves - chapter 17

    I didn''t have much time to draw this week, hence didn''t include much detail. I was satisfied with the outcome though. Do let me know what you think of it.

    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    Will post new Chapter in an hour.

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    New Chapter coming in an hour.

 26 Chapter

    It¡¯s been two days since I occupied this body. The Captain¡¯s soul being tortured each and every moment and being disintegrated little by little. According to the Demon book the lifespan of body occupied by a demon will be reduced to eight years; but judging by the deterioration of the Captain¡¯s soul, this body will not even last a month.

    I have been impersonating the Captain since I arrived in Levylon. I was going through the books in the central library today. When I first arrived here, the librarian raised her eyebrows which led me to believe that the Captain was not much of an educated person. I was searching through the books in one of the shelves when the librarian came towards me with a book in her hand.

    ¡°Sir, this is probably the book you are searching for¡± the old women said in a low tone.

    I took the book from her hand and looked at it. The cover said ¡®Detailed accounts of Gliania¡¯s history¡¯. The Captain¡¯s voice was unusually loud which didn¡¯t set well with the librarian and I unconsciously voiced the title of the books as I was searching, hence she took it upon herself to help me find the book and send me out of the library as soon as possible. If it wasn¡¯t for my status as a Captain of the guards, I feel that she wouldn''t even have allowed me into the library in the first place.

    ¡°Is it alright to take the book outside the library¡± I asked her again in an unusual loud voice.

    She replied yes almost immediately.

    After exiting the library I was on my way to the Captain¡¯s house when one of the guards ran upto me.

    ¡°Captain, Sir Edmurd has requested your immediate presence. He¡¯s waiting in the de lafey inn¡± the guard said panting.

    ¡°I wanted to meet him ever since I came to Levylon, very well lead the way¡± I said to him.

    I was led to a grand hotel and to one of the rooms on the upper floor. Upon entering the room I was addressed by a voice.

    ¡°My retainer told me that recently you have been loitering in the libraries rather than finding the culprit behind my father¡¯s death¡± the voice came from the chair which faced the opposite direction.

    ¡°My men are looking for him. I don¡¯t have to be personally present all the time. I am sure you will get to see him soon enough¡± I spoke to him in a provoking tone.

    ¡°If you know what¡¯s best for you, you better find him soon.¡± he said to me threateningly.

    I just snickered under my breath thinking how I was in front of him and yet he couldn¡¯t do anything.

    ¡°What about the girl. I don¡¯t believe you would have trouble finding her as you already have her portrait distributed among your men¡± he said in a firm tone.

    ¡°I have my doubts regarding that. Even if she¡¯s alive, I don¡¯t think she would come back. Pursuing her would be a waste of time. I think it¡¯s better to have my men find the boy responsible for your father¡¯s death rather wasting time on the girl¡± I suggested to divert the attention from Elena.

    ¡°No! you will find her and bring her to me¡± he turned and yelled looking at me. He then composed himself and said ¡°I am certain that the boy made it look like he kidnapped her. I don¡¯t believe that, it was just to divert our attention from her. She will return to her village. Don¡¯t move your men from the village, as soon as she enters the village capture her and notify me.¡±

    He was a lean man with sharp features. His narrow eyes were filled with intelligence. He correctly guessed that I did those things in order to divert their attention from Elena. He is a dangerous man, I have to be careful around him and deal with him as soon as possible.

    ¡°My men are still stationed in that village. I¡¯ll do as you wish¡± I replied to him.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear any more excuses. You may go now.¡± He said to me and then turned back to his original position.

    I was leaving the manor when I heard the guards gossiping among themselves.

    ¡°Did you hear that the Sir Edmurd¡¯s marriage had been postponed and now he¡¯s obsessed with some village girl¡± One of the guard said.

    ¡°I heard that a man killed his father and he took that village girl hostage while escaping. That girl was supposed to become his concubine but that man snatched her from him. Ever since then Sir Edmurd has been trying to find them.¡± The other guard said.

    ¡°I heard that he didn¡¯t even set foot in Cleveton and immediately came back after hearing the news about his father¡¯s death. He vowed not to return to Cleveton until they are found.¡± The third guard said lowering his voice.

    The guards stopped talking among themselves when they saw me.

    I was feeling a bit restless as they were after Elena, I have to take care of this Edmurd sooner than I expected. I was hoping that as a Captain I would have better prospects of finding clues to help Lisa but I now I have to make haste least the noble himself makes a visit to Elena¡¯s village.

    I was still holding the book I took from the library. I decided to go to the Captain¡¯s house to take some rest and read the book. I didn¡¯t visit the Captain¡¯s house since I came to Levylon. I was afraid that people close to the Captain will become suspicious since my personality is entirely different from him. But if I stayed in the inn then people would get suspicious. I bought some food from the market; it was a little weird as the shopkeeper insisted that I didn¡¯t have to pay him money. I was not in the mood to argue with him and started walking towards the Captain¡¯s house.

    I took the keys from my pocket, opened the door and went inside. All the lights were out. A girl sat there in the corner of the kitchen with her eyes closed. I went near her and woke her up, upon seeing me she was shocked and the backed up, seemingly afraid. I became a little uneasy, did she figure out that I was not the Captain.

    ¡°Sorry I was searching for food and fell unconscious here¡± She said still afraid of me.

    I was relieved inside, she didn¡¯t find out my identity. She was shocked because she was woken up abruptly.

    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.

    She eyed the bag I held in my hand. I extended my hand and offered her the food.

    She didn¡¯t take it from me, instead looked at me with caution. I again voiced her to take the food. She took the bag hesitantly. I stood up, poured some water in the glass and sat in one of the chairs.

    The girl stood up and ran with the bag in hand. I was confused from her action and followed after her. She went in one of the rooms. I peeked inside the room and saw that she sat on the floor feeding the bread to the two kids sitting beside her. She noticed me and stooped feeding the kids.

    ¡°Sir, they are hungrier than me. Please let them eat, I promise they will work properly. They won¡¯t break anything again.¡± She pleaded desperately, tears in her eyes.

    I left the room and came out of the house to buy some more food. I have more or less the most important memories of the Captain but the less important ones have faded when I took over his body. Those children must be working for the captain. I can¡¯t believe he locked them and left them to starve.

    After I bought large quantities of food, I left the store. The store owner had a sad look on his face when I stuffed my bag with a lot of food. He again told me the same thing. I got angry and handed him the money for the food. The sad look on his face vanished as I exited the store.

    I went back to the house and heard the kids complaining that they were still hungry to the girl. I told them to come to the kitchen and offered food to all of them, grabbing some for myself.

    The kids ate the food greedily like a hungry wolf. I didn¡¯t look at them and concentrated on my own food. After eating the kids started cleaning the dishes while the girl started cleaning the table and packing the excess food.

    I sat there quietly looking at the kids doing the work diligently. One was a boy and other a girl, they looked like twins of about ten years. After tidying up they excused themselves to go to sleep. I asked the girl to put the kids to bed and come to the Captain¡¯s room.

    I made myself to the Captain¡¯s room and lay in the bed which was really comfortable. This was the first time I was resting on a bed such as this. It was like heaven when compared to the floor I usually slept in.

    There was a knock on the door and then the girl entered the room. She stood there by the door looking in my direction. I got up and sat on the bed making room for her to sit and then asked her to sit on the bed. She didn¡¯t move and stood in the same spot looking in my direction.

    I voiced again for her to come. She slowly walked to the bed and sat there casting her eyes down on the floor. I patted her shoulder to look at me and she immediately jumped out of the bed.

    ¡°Sir, please don¡¯t beat me. I am sorry, I will work harder, I won¡¯t make any mistakes.¡± She was on the verge of crying.

    This is so screwed up. Why would she even think that I called her to beat her up. What did this bastard of a Captain do to her to make her so scared all the time.

    The more I act to make her comfortable the more scared she becomes. I motioned for her to be quite and listen to me after giving up on making her feel comfortable.

    ¡°I am not the Captain. The Captains¡¯ as good as dead and I have taken his place for the time being.¡± I said to her blatantly.

    She stood there disbelief written all over the face. It¡¯s clear that she didn¡¯t believe my words and thought I was playing a trick on her. Guess I have no choice but to show her.

    I stood up and she backed away. I created a black energy ball in both my hands. She was shocked after seeing it and remained motionless. I closed my palms and the black ball disappeared.

    ¡°Now do you believe me? I am not Captain. I have taken over him. The reason I told you this is because you will find out sooner or later.¡± I said to her focusing my attention to her expressions.

    She didn¡¯t say anything for a few minutes and then asked ¡°What have you done to father? Are you going to kill us too?¡±

    ¡°The Captain does not exist anymore. He wanted to kill me and hence I had to kill him. I won¡¯t harm you if you don¡¯t tell anybody about me¡± I said to her.

    She again stood there in silence for a few more seconds and then started laughing manically. After a few seconds she slumped down and started crying.

    ¡°We are finally free of him¡± she voiced while crying.

    After calming down she narrated her story to me. It seems that her mother was a maid who came looking for work and the Captain took her in. The Captain forced her mother to have a relationship with him but didn¡¯t marry her, all the while having affairs with other women. Her mother had three children from him; he beat them and barely fed them. Her mother was not allowed to work elsewhere. One time when the Captain was out of town, her mother worked in a shop in order to get some money to buy a toy the siblings wanted. The Captain learned about it after returning and beat her mother to death. He then framed the shop owner for her murder. After that he constantly abused his children. They were not allowed to go out of the house and the Captain always locked them inside when he goes out of town. Just before I gave them food today, the girl and the kids were starving for two days.

    After hearing all the things she said, I started wondering what is wrong with this world. The weak are constantly abused and had to live fearful of their lives and the strong misused their authority to oppress the week.

    I promised her that if she didn¡¯t tell anybody about me then I would see to it that they are taken care of; I further explained that it meant sufficient food, cloths, no abuse and freedom.

    To make her believe my words, I told her that was a good friend of nobility in the capital and they would gladly take care of her and her siblings if I asked them to. After talking to her I went to sleep postponing reading the book for tomorrow.

    ---------------------------------------------------------------

    Here''s an extra long chapter for you guys. I wanted to keep the size of the chapters consistent but it''s beyond me since I can''t abruptly close up a chapter. Anyways thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed the art I posted earlier.

 27 Chapter

    The next morning I asked the kids to eat by themselves and sat in the room with the newly acquired book. The book was filled with detailed account of various wars led by Gliania Empire over the years. I skimmed through the pages and found the information I was looking for.

    An evil Witch was born within the royal blood and was banished into the forest by the decree of the new king. The wretched Witch was sealed by the five powerful mages who were proficient in using elemental magic. The mages used each of the elements to create a powerful seal to entrap the witch in the Gratel forest. They combined the elements together to isolate the witch inside the forest while making the forest safe for other humans. It is said that elements prohibit the witch from approaching any human.

    After the Witch was sealed, in commendation for their action, four of the mages received the title of marquis and was given territories to manage; while the most powerful of them know as Ilaldi was given a position in the Royal court.

    Qiran, the mage proficient in controlling fire element was appointed as marquis of Aethelhem.

    Sikral, the mage proficient in controlling wind element was appointed as marquis of Culcheth.

    Dorion, the mage proficient in controlling earth element was appointed as marquis of Anghor.

    Heldrin a mage proficient in controlling water element was appointed as marquis of Bracklewhyte.

    They continue to serve the empire and took an oath to unite under the command of the Empire if there was ever a need to banish other vile creatures.

    I noted down the details on a piece of paper then left the room to join the kids for breakfast. They had finished their breakfast by the time I entered the Kitchen. The girls were washing the dishes. I grabbed a plate, put some food in it and started eating. I noticed that the little girl was frequently glancing in my direction, when I looked at her she panicked and dropped the plate in her hand. The plate shattered and the pieces lay on the floor. She looked at me fearfully, I just took a look at the floor and then giving it no heed focused on the food. The elder girl then cleaned the floor lecturing the little girl to be careful.

    I had nothing to do after breakfast and wanted to see the town hence decided to take the kids out shopping. I told the kids to get ready and made myself to my room. There was a big trunk below the bed which was locked, the Captain stored all his money and valuables inside the trunk. I didn¡¯t care to search for the keys and smashed it open. I collected the money and went to see the kids.

    The cloths they were wearing were old and torn so I bought them a new set of cloths. A little further there was a candy stall and the twins were eagerly looking at the other kids surrounding the stall. I gave them some money and told them that they could buy whatever they want. The twins ran to the shop all excited.

    ¡°You can also buy some candies, afterall it¡¯s your father¡¯s money¡± I told the girl besides me.

    ¡°I am not a child. I don¡¯t like sweets that much¡± the girl said looking at the crowd before the candy store.

    ¡°Then you can buy whatever you like. Tell me if you need something¡± I said to her.

    ¡°If it¡¯s not much trouble, I would like to buy some jewellery¡± She said looking at me expectantly.

    ¡°No problem, by the way what¡¯s your name? I forgot to ask yesterday¡±

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    ¡°My name is Sofie.¡± She said performing a curtsy.

    After the twins came back, I sent them with their sister to the jewelers shop. I decided to pay a visit to the merchant shop to look for weapons and magic related items. The jewelers shop was a few shops away from the merchant place and I told the kids to wait for me outside after they have finished their purchases.

    Upon entering the shop, I noticed that there were a various kinds of weapons. Different kinds of spears, swords, axes and bows were on display. I went further inside and was intercepted by a young man. He seemed to be the owner of the place. He asked me if I was looking for some kind of specialized weapon. I told him that I was interested in items related to magic. He led me to a room inside the shop and introduced me to an old woman.

    The old woman was creepy, especially one of her eyes which was entirely white. She showed me staffs, scrolls or magical objects which were neatly stacked in the shelves. I told her that I was interested in information related to magic and was willing to pay the price for it. I explained to her I didn¡¯t know anything about magic and wanted the information for my son who is showing aptitude in magic. After a little haggle we settled down on the price. I paid upfront and she started explaining things to me.

    Magic is performed by using the mana which is inside all living creatures. The mana is available all around us. Although the mana is in abundance, very few humans are capable of becoming a mage. Those who are gifted with the capabilities of manipulating the mana to their wishes, study the element their bodies are compatible with and become a mage. A human body can only store so much of mana at a time and after expending that mana a mage has to take rest in order to let the mana build up inside the body. If a mage forcefully tries to expend mana more than his body is capable of, then his organs start to fail one by one. The old women showed me her eye as a proof.

    To enhance the quality of the mana various tools are used such as staff¡¯s and wands. Magic can also be used by the common people with the help of scrolls and magical object created by scholar mages, but the quality of magic would be far inferior compared to that of a real mage. Mana can also be stored inside kridite which is red gem. These gems are too expensive for common people and adventurers. Usually nobility carry these gems which rival the power of real mages.

    I remember the red gem I gave to Elena which I took from the Noble on the merchant ship. I asked the women if I could buy the gem. She told me that no shop in this town would have it since the townfolks cannot afford such luxuries. She suggested me to travel to the city if I was interested in buying one.

    After getting answers to all my questions, I exited the shop to look for the kids. They were standing outside the jewelers shop as I had told them to. The twins were holding onto the candies as it were a treasure and Sofie had bought a necklace and a matching pair of earring, she seems to be in a very good mood. She grabbed my hand as we started walking. We all were walking hand in hand as though a big happy family. Although I was not their father, I liked these kids and it felt really good to spend time with them. After buying few more things we made way to the house.

    As we approached the house, I noticed that the door of the house was open. I was sure that I had locked it when we left the house. I voiced my suspicion and made the kids follow behind me cautiously. I didn¡¯t want to fight with my real abilities in the Captain¡¯s body as it would lead to discovery of my identity. If it was a robber then I would not have a problem dealing with him, but the probability of a robber infiltrating the Captain¡¯s house is slim. I walked forward cautiously and saw the Noble Edward seated in the center of the hall.

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    Are you guys able to view the art works I had posted. There is no option for direct upload of images in RR. I am posting the link from Imgur and hence have my doubts. If you feel lazy - just comment with "Yes" as it would clear my doubts.

    There won''t be any chapters for the next two days as I am going on a business trip with my boss. I will make up for it on Saturday.

 28 Chapter

    ¡°Welcome home Captain, I was expecting you would be here a little earlier but you took your sweet time. Enjoying a day out with your family I see.¡± The Noble Edmurd said looking in my direction.

    I didn¡¯t say anything. I looked at him and the man behind him who was entirely clocked leaving no clue as to his identity. Clearly they are not here for a chat.

    Before I could do anything the clocked man slammed into me and pinned me to the wall and held a knife to my throat. The kids screamed but were too afraid to flee.

    ¡°From what I heard you didn¡¯t have any attachments with your kids and just treated them as slaves, I see that you have changed. My retainer here paid a little visit to the village and told me that no guards are stationed there anymore. What¡¯s more the girl is back it seems.

    Surprised? Well my retainer here is an air mage and is fast enough to cover large distances in a short time. I am a little disappointed in you though. Taking me for a fool and pretending to follow your duty. Did you have some kind of change of heart while you were there in the village or did you finally get to screw that wrench you were lusting after all this time and in return had mercy on her family?¡± The Noble Edmurd continued his non sense.

    I struggled to get out the grip of the air mage but he firmly held me in place. It seems I would not be able get out of this without using my powers which means changing into my original form. I still tried to look for a way out without disposing off the Captain¡¯s body before the twins.

    The Noble Edmurd noticed my struggle and gave an amused laugh.

    ¡°I don¡¯t blame you though. Things that we do for the women we fancy. I understand your predicament very well, after all the girl herself took my fancy and her mother is no less a beauty than her. The thing is my friend, it is wrong to enjoy the fruits yourself without providing to your superiors.¡± He said to me in an amused tone.

    He strode toward Sofie and the kids. They stood there motionless. He eyed Sofie lecherously. He rubbed his hand on her face and then fondled her breasts. She flinched but the Noble held her tightly. I struggled again but unable to bulge the cloaked man.

    ¡°Quite the daughter you have here. If I had not seen that girl in the village then I would have taken a fancy to your girl. She is also beautiful but pales in comparison to the girl in that village. I suppose I could use your girl for some entertainment. I¡¯ll give you a chance, seeing that I am pleased with your daughter. You are going to take your men and bring me the girl and her mother. Your daughter can keep me company till you return. Oh and you better hurry least your daughter becomes beyond salvage before your return.¡± The Noble gave another chuckle and started removing Sofie¡¯s dress. The girl started crying silently.

    I can¡¯t delay my decision anymore. I conjured the black flames which engulfed my entire body and the clocked figure who pinned me to the wall was also caught in the flames. He released me and tried to use the air to put out the flames. But there is only so much air inside a house to manipulate. I grabbed him and held tightly until I knew for sure that he won¡¯t make it alive. Both out bodies were engulfed in flame and reduced to ashes within minutes. I stood there in my original form clad in black flames. The flames which burned down the Captain¡¯s body did nothing to my original form.

    Everybody was shocked to see me. The Noble gathered his wits and immediately bolted towards the door. I anticipated it and caught him with ease. He struggled and screamed. With my original strength this Nobles could do nothing but struggle. I gagged him and quickly bond him. I was busy and didn¡¯t notice the damage the flames were causing. With a wave of my hand the flames died down leading to charred table and chairs among other things. I guess it¡¯s time I gave some explanation to the kids.

    After giving a brief explanation leaving out the gory details, I told them to pack the things they really needed. I didn¡¯t took over the body of the Noble as I was not sure whether I would be able to get out of his body without incinerating it. I made him unconscious with a blow to the head, covered him in cloth and put him in a trunk. We left the house and made our way towards Elena¡¯s village.

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    As soon as I neared Elena¡¯s village I noticed that the village was not so grim anymore. There were very few people outside their homes when I visited last time. But now there were villages all around. I went straight towards the Chief¡¯s house. The old man I helped before noticed me and came to talk with me.

    ¡°Oh.. you are back young man. I see that you have brought your siblings along with you. Are you going to settle down in this village?¡± The old man asked curiously.

    I nodded in return, better not let anyone know what happened in Levylon.

    ¡°I see a lot of people outside, is there something going on¡± I asked the old man.

    ¡°Yes you are right. Someone eradicated the entire squad of guards and the chief¡¯s granddaughter is also back, so we are having a little celebration tonight.¡± The old man said enthusiastically.

    I excused myself and went to the Chief¡¯s house. The Chief opened the door, he was happy to see me and led me inside the house.

    Apparently they were having a dinner. Upon seeing me Elena was surprised and threw herself upon me, she held me tightly shedding tears as she did.

    It was a little awkward because everybody was watching us in amusement. I stoke her back as in consoling her and pried her from my embrace. She looked at me and asked me why I left her without any word.

    Her face was still too close to mine. I told her that there was urgent business to take care of the Captain and I didn¡¯t want to ruin her reunion with her family.

    After collecting her thought, Elena realized what she was doing in plain view of all others and immediately backed off with a beat red embarrassed face.

    They invited us to join the dinner and we did. I explained to the chief what happened in Levylon and requested him to take care of the kids I brought along with me. I told him that the kids were handworkers and that he should help them earn their livelihood in the village. The Chief offered to let them stay as a guest but Sofie declined and insisted on working their share so as not to burden her new benefactors.

    The Chief told me about their little celebration which was scheduled late night and told me to join them as a honored guest but I declined him politely. I showed him the gagged unconscious noble inside the trunk and asked him to give me some room with privacy for interrogation. The Chief recognized the Noble and didn¡¯t hesitate to oblige me. I was give an abandoned broken barn on the outskirts of the village.

    I said good night and left the house with the Chief leading me to the barn.

    ¡°I am a little worried if the news about the Noble being abducted spreads around. Ours is but a small village and we cannot defend ourselves if guards were ordered to massacre our village.¡± The Old Chief said with a worried tone.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, nobody knows about him. Besides if I had left him in Levylon, he would have burned your village down for his petty revenge and amusement.¡± I reassured the old Chief.

    The chief left me alone in the abandoned barn along with my luggage.

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    After getting poor response I had dropped this novel. I had quite a chapters written up while I was away during business trip. I ''ll be posting them but I do not promise that I will continue this as I have got no motivation after seeing the responses. Enjoy..

 29 Chapter

    After the Chief left, I entered the abandoned barn. From the way it looked, I am sure it was abandoned for quite sometimes. Broken planks in multiple places, wet patches from recent rain, fungi and algae growing everywhere.

    There was a big wooden log in the side, I emptied the luggage and tied the Noble to that log and started reading the book in a corner, waiting for him to wake up. After an hour or so he woke up. I stayed quiet for a few more minutes before getting up to meet him.

    At first he was confused and then seem to have recollected his memories. He started shouting and calling for help, but the noise was suppressed by the villagers¡¯ voices who were celebrating and the barn being at the edge of the village didn¡¯t help his cause.

    He looked at me in terror and ceased his yelling. He¡¯s a cleaver man, he recognized me even when he just saw me for a few minutes.

    ¡°Who¡­. What are you?¡± He asked me in panic.

    ¡°Who am I?.... It doesn¡¯t matter. All that matter is who you are¡± I said in a mocking tone.

    ¡°I am a Noble of Paranthean family. Surely my family would not take the news of my disappearance lightly and will hunt you down. You won¡¯t get away with this¡± He hissed, now with no traces of fear or panic.

    Maybe he thought I was a common citizen and would be afraid of his threat.

    ¡°Trying to threaten me hum, I thought you were quite cleaver; It seems I gave you more credit that you deserve. I don¡¯t fear no Noble or their families. When I killed the fat pig you call father all of your men stood there watching, helpless to do anything. You think I would let you go and surrender myself after hearing your threats?¡± I mocked him and gave a slight chuckle.

    ¡°You¡­ you.. you killed my father.. You bastard.. I¡¯ll kill you.. I¡¯ll rip you into thousand tiny pieces..¡± He started yelling, clearly unable to control his anger.

    It was really amusing to watch how anger clouds the judgment of even the cleverest of men.

    ¡°Frustrating isn¡¯t it. With all your money, with all your power; you are still nothing. You hurt others by twisting the laws to your will. But have you ever considered that somewhere someone will be there who doesn¡¯t abide any laws that you Nobles create for your own benefit. I will let you know what happens when you antagonize that type of a person.¡± I said to him drawing my knife out.

    ¡°Wait..Ok.. I now understand that we were in the wrong. Leave me; I¡¯ll give you whatever you want. I have a lot of money and I have many connections; I¡¯ll get you whatever you want. I will leave Levylon and never come back. I promise¡± He started pleading once he knew that there¡¯s no way out.

    ¡°Oh..yes.. you will leave Levylon for sure, there¡¯s no doubt about it and I¡¯ll be the one to decide how you leave. Your suggestion was not bad.. What was it.. hum.. I¡¯ll rip you into thousand tiny pieces¡± I said giving a smile.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t. I have never begged someone in my life but now I beg you, spare me and I¡¯ll do anything you want¡± as he was saying that I took his hand and cut off his index finger from his right hand.

    He cried miserably and cursed me in such foul languages that I didn¡¯t even know the meaning of.

    Half an hour later I exited that barn again with a trunk. I dragged the trunk out of the village to the place where the bunch of trees stood. There was still the mess I made earlier while I captured the Captain. The body parts were started to rot and an awful stench came from it.

    I dug a big hole and dumped all the remains outside and then started dumping the contents of the trunk. A thousand pieces.. not even close. I counted 28 pieces, that¡¯s all it took and I was not interested in butchering once he was dead.

    Now that I no longer had to worry about Elena or the kids, I proceeded to my next destination i.e. Culcheth. It¡¯s the city of the air mage and is the nearest one from here, hence it became my first target. I walked for a day and came across some merchant heading for the same destination. At first they were a bit reluctant to take me with them but after I offered them the leaves that kept the small beast away, they agreed to take me with them.

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    It took us three days to arrive at our destination, I was glad that the merchants offered me a lift otherwise it would have taken me more than a week by walk. It was a small city, smaller than levylon. Agriculture was their main occupation it seems, as I could see a lot of farms. Trees bearing colorful fruits were in abundance. The air also seems to be fresh and clean. It felt refreshing to be here. There were a few machines employed to harvest fruits and farms. The mages seems to be manipulating air to operate the machines and are using suction force to collect fruits.

    Our journey ended at the market and few of the merchants even bought the repellant leaves from me for their outward journey. I asked the merchant whom I befriended during the journey about where I should look for information and he told me that the best place to gather information is the adventurers guild, other than that I might also look for a popular inn. I made a few coins from selling the leaves hence I could afford to stay in the inn. Adventurers guild seems to be the best place but the merchant told me that I could only go there If I was an adventurer or have a request to make. I cannot simply loiter around the place. I decided to look for an inn with lot of people.

    After half an hour of search I came across a run down inn. I saw a lot of good inns on my way but for some reason there weren¡¯t as full as this run down inn. Maybe those inns had exorbitant cost and normal travelers couldn¡¯t afford them. I entered the inn and saw that it was bustling with people.

    I went straight to the empty table in the corner and sat there waiting for a maid to take my order. After a few minutes I sensed someone approach my table, as I looked up expecting a beautiful maid to take my order what came into my vision is a pair of dirty skinny men.

    ¡°We are the Collectors¡± one of the dirty skinny man said to me.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have money to give away for charity¡± I waved my hand up and down shooing them. It¡¯s not like I didn¡¯t have the money. All the money I had belonged to other and I could not give it away without a purpose.

    Both of then turned red and the second man banged his fist on the table ¡°We are not beggars. We collect money and in turn guarantee the safety of you and your belonging while you stay in this city¡±

    I looked at them up and down wondering in what way they would guarantee the safety of their client, maybe when fights break out they would stand before the client to act as a meat shield or something, but the lack of meat on their body put me in doubt.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know how you would protect me, but I think I can protect myself better than you two¡± I smiled and said to them.

    ¡°You¡­We two are not going to guard you. It¡¯s the organization we belong to. You give us money and no one will mess with you. Refuse and every robber of the will be behind you¡± They said in a threatening manner.

    I know how this works. They are probably an organization of thugs. If you give them money they would leave you and if you don¡¯t they would come to steel from you. It¡¯s a nice system if you ask me. Instead of straight out steeling from you they give a chance for you to make them ignore you. But in my case it¡¯s different. If I show myself as a weakling then other people too will try to intimidate me and it will hinder the chances of collecting information.

    ¡°I am sorry but I have to decline. As you see I have nothing on me other than a few coins.¡± I said to then maintaining the same smiling face.

    I cannot seem to get angry by the way they are trying to extort money, I thought that they were a little funny and kept on smiling.

    ¡°You will regret this¡± they said to me and strode away from my table.

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    Tired of ending the chapters, will take a nap. You guys enjoy the chapter.