ã€ŠDark Mage: The Offerã€‹


 Chapter 1: The Boy *updated 02/01/16*

    A youth of about fourteen years of age crept silently through the forest.  Young Paden was of medium height at about five and half feet.  His long, raven black hair slightly obscured the light earth brown of his eyes of his oval shaped face that bore soft features giving him a slight noble look.  He possessed a lean body that had clearly defined muscles built from his work as a hunter and helping with his foster family¡¯s farm.

    It was soon approaching the fall season and the layers of clothes he wore had thickened some.  He wore a mix of olive green cotton shirts under a thicker brown wool jacket.  His pants were likewise layers of cotton and wool tucked inside leather boots that reached just under his knees.  He further wore a thick, dark brown cloak.  On his back was a black longbow, a common bow made of iron wood native to their woods, slung across his back as he held a medium length spear in his right hand.

    It was still early morning and vapor escaped with every breath he took.  He slowed his breathing down as he quietly listened and looked for game.  He and his group had spread out some distance in order to cover more ground.  He approached the familiar edge of the forest knowing from experience over the years that there was a high probability of game on the other side.

    Paden looked and spotted a heard of deer that were grazing in the tall grass before him about a hundred yards away.  He noted the direction of the wind and got onto his stomach as he began to crawl closer to the herd.  He crawled nervously as a change in wind direction or slight sound would give him away and his prize would flee.  Ninety five, ninety, eighty, seventy, sixty five yards, he was now getting into his range.

    Paden had already picked a target earlier and carefully took his bow as he quietly got to his knees, notching an arrow.  His heart beat in anticipation as he drew silent breathes and readied himself, his target in sight.  Whoosh.  The arrow was loosed and hit the deer piercing slightly above its heart and into its lungs.

    Chaos broke lose as his actions alerted the other deer sending them in a panic fleeing.  He drew a knife from his waist and quickly took it to the fallen deer¡¯s chest to make sure the job was done.  The animal let a final gasp of air out as its eyes lost their life.  The youth heaved as his blood still pumped fiercely in its chest as he took out the hunting horn and blew the call alerting the other hunters of his party.

    His call continued for two minutes until he saw three men enter the clearing.  He stowed his horn and motioned them over.

    ¡°Hahaha, good one young lad,¡± laughed a burly hunter with a large belly as he looked at the youth in pride.

    ¡°True.  I ¡®member it like yesterday.  The lad was still running behind your fat arse as he was learning.  Now the boy is a young man and killing his own buck,¡± laughed a skinnier man.  The burly man gave him a look when he called him fat.  He was quite sensitive about his weight and though he ate no more than the men here he could not seem to lose the gut.  Were it anyone outside their group who had said it, he would be down with a few teeth missing.

    ¡°Leave Gerard alone Eber,¡± reprimanded an older muscular man.  The brown haired man had a solid muscular build making him stand out when beside the skinny Eber and large Gerard.

    ¡°Aw, Gerard knows I mean nothing ill.  We been huntin together for fifteen years now Axel.  When you gonna take that handle out your¡­¡±  Eber stopped talking when Axel gave him a mean look.  ¡°Alright, alright.  Don¡¯t fault me for trying to lighten the mood,¡± spoke Eber with a light tone while holding his hands up in submission.

    Gerard and Axel heaved a sigh.  Eber was never one for being serious.  A habit built up from the days they were in the army together.  The man also never knew when to keep his mouth shut.  It got him in a right bit of trouble often because of it.

    ¡°Ignoring the clown.¡±

    ¡°Hey!¡±  Paden giggled hearing Eber''s ignored cry.

    ¡°Ignoring the clown,¡± spoke Axel while ignoring Eber¡¯s cries.  ¡°It is true.  You been following us and learning for years now.  I¡¯m right proud of you.  Paden, I know you want to get some experience on your own but remember our group will always be open for you to join any time.¡±

    Paden looked at the grinning faces of the three men around him, grateful for their help over the years.  Thanks to them, he and his mother were able to get by for so many years despite having no man in the house.  Axel, Eber and Gerard were as much family to him as his mother was.  Eber and Gerard were like funny uncles to Paden who loved to watch the two bicker back and forth.

    Axel in particular became something of a father to Paden when his mother died nearly four winters ago.  Axel had saved him from the quiet despair following her death, bringing Paden into his home with his family.  Axel only had four daughters, so Paden had become something of the son he never had.  Even his wife, Leanna, took to Paden like her.

    The talks were over so the men left with Paden and took their kill back to camp and entered under the gazes of another group that was watching over the hunting party camp.  They watched Axel and his group approach with the buck with relative surprise.  It had barely been an hour since the groups had left to hunt and were utterly shocked.

    Axel and Gerard got to work on the buck and had it lifted by a rope and a large metal rod into the trees where it was properly bled.  Gerard quickly took the hide off of the buck in a matter of moments as Paden watched with rapt attention as he was still very bad and ruined several pelts by puncturing them during the skinning process.  When he was done, Gerard took the pelt and offered it to Paden who shook his head.

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    ¡°Rules, the one who killed the game gets the pelt,¡± he told Paden sternly as he frowned.

    ¡°Still owe your brother for teaching me some tanning skills.  The pelt this time is for him, tell him its thanks,¡± replied Paden while waving off the pelt.  Paden would always return favors where they were due.  Gerard looked at him and still handed him the pelt as Paden looked at him curiously.

    ¡°Get to removing the fat.  If you ruin the pelt I¡¯ll have my brother tan your hide,¡± said Gerard gruffly as he turned to continue treating the other pelts of the animals they killed earlier.

    Paden chuckled and went to an area where they set up for removing the flesh from the pelts and strung it up as he got to remove the flesh and fat still stuck to the pelt.  It was an arduous labor that took Paden hours.  He cringed when he thought he accidently cut into the pelt.

    By the time he was done, Axel and the others were already done with dismembering the buck and were smoking some cuts and salting down some of the finer pieces to take back to the village.  Gerard took the pelt and began to process it taking some bits of the buck¡¯s brains, mixing it with some warm water to wet down the pelt.  This process would continue for some time to keep the pelt from becoming too stiff.  His brother would later process it into something, usually some glove for merchants to sell to nobility which sold well.

    ¡°See you didn¡¯t damage the pelt this time,¡± laughed Eber as Paden blushed slightly in embarrassment.  He was used to being lightly teased as he had damaged more than a few pelts while learning.

    ¡°His archery is coming along though, got the buck in one shot,¡± noted Axel.

    ¡°A shame he is still a chick when it comes to women.  Last festival the poor boy couldn¡¯t get a word in with Lily,¡± Eber joked as he gave the boy a light nudge.

    Paden grew red as a tomato as he listened to Eber embarrassed.  Lily was an older girl he fancied and had come up to talk to him during a festival but he was so poorly tongue tied that the situation quickly escalated into an awkward silence.  The memory still haunted him to this day and made him redden whenever he saw Lily around the village and working her family¡¯s tavern with her sister.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be like that Paden.  It¡¯s adorable.  In fact so long as you¡¯re not like this before your wedding night, you¡¯ll be far better than Axel.  He did nothing but babble from when he asked for Leanna¡¯s hand ¡®til the end of their first year together,¡± roared Eber in laughter as he guzzled down some ale.

    ¡°A little early isn¡¯t it Eber?¡± asked Axel as he eyed the wooden mug in Eber¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Been out here three days.  Our group caught three boars and a bear.  Got more than enough meat for a while.  Little Paden¡¯s buck was a good windfall.  I think this calls for an early celebration, don¡¯t you?¡± asked Eber with a grin.  Axel sighed helplessly at the drunkard.  Gerard was still working the pelt over some and looked at the ale while licking his lips.

    It was soon past midday and the other two groups returned with their kills.  The groups helped each other process the meat and the pelts quickly and Paden even cut himself while processing a pelt again causing the other men around to laugh.  He had done this on many occasions and it reminded everyone present of times when they were younger and learning the skill as he was.  He was highly liked by all the hunters as most of their sons were not as dedicated and diligent as he was.

    Having preserved the meat and put them away, the men busted out the ale and started cooking some stew to eat for the night¡¯s dinner before they returned to the village.  About thirty five percent would go to the local lord and fifteen percent split with the other groups and fifty percent kept by the group who hunted the animal.

    T

    he men drunk merrily as they ate the bear stew that Axel¡¯s group contributed their meat to as other groups brought out some wild fungi and other wild vegetables they found out in the forest to add.  They happily talked and lightly poked fun at Paden as they would sorely miss the boy who had been part of their group for so long.  However, he was set on making it on his own, even if for a short time.

    They passed some ale to Paden to try and watched as he coughed out the drink which tasted bitter to him causing the men to laugh at his reaction.  Some men who had daughters around Paden¡¯s age started pushing for him to start thinking of the future as he was a month from his fifteenth birthday into manhood.  Eber and Gerard laughed when they saw the fathers approaching Paden trying to push their daughters onto him.

    Axel sat still, enjoying the sight.  At one time he also wanted for Paden to settle down in their village and even wanted one of his daughters to marry him.  However, he knew deep down that Paden would not be restricted to their small village.  His fifteenth birthday was in a month¡¯s time and Paden would likely not remain in the village when he finally came.

 Chapter 2: The Shy Hero

    It was early in the morning as they made breakfast.  The air was damp and a mist blew through the camp as they merrily ate.  The hunt this time was far better than the hunts the last three months.  Finished with breakfast, they cleaned and packed the camp down and began the five hours long march back to the village.  It was barely past midday by the time they arrived at the familiar sight of their village.

    The sight of the burning of the village¡¯s outer perimeter and the closed gates to the inner village made the group dumbfounded.  Some bodies of villagers littered the streets near the outer part of the village.  Outside they saw two hundred or so odd monsters surrounding the inner village walls.  Paden was utterly frightened by the sight of his home.  He was worried about Leanna and the girls and looked at Axel wondering if this was real.

    Axel¡¯s face was grim.  The wooden walls were still standing but that would not last long.  Their village was slightly large with five hundred villagers but their guards numbered less than fifty.  Against the two hundred lower demons outside, that would not be enough.  Even the weaker goblins could kill grown men and give a regular soldier trouble.  He even spotted some orcs amongst their ranks.

    ¡°Axel¡­¡± muttered Paden weakly.

    ¡°I know¡­¡± spoke Axel quietly.  He looked at Gerard and Eber who had determined expressions on their faces as they nodded.   ¡°Martin, I¡¯ll need you to go to army barracks near Brent.  Warn them, Demon scouts showed up.  Eber, Gerard split into two groups of eight men.  Target the orcs first.  Aim for center near the upper right where their heart is located.  Six arrows is usually enough to put them down even if they don¡¯t die.¡±

    ¡°What about me?¡± Paden asked anxiously.

    ¡°You¡¯re going with Martin,¡± replied Axel evenly.

    ¡°What?!  You expect me to run and do nothing?!¡±  Paden was incensed.  He would rather fight with Axel to defend what family he had, then suffer a life without them.

    Axel looked at Eber and Gerard helplessly.  They both shrugged their shoulders and Eber gave him a grin.  He knew the boy wouldn¡¯t want to leave and would insist on joining them.  Axel looked at Paden who gave him a determined look of defiance daring him to try to make him leave.  Seeing this, Axel could do nothing but frown and sigh in resignation.

    ¡°Sorry ¡®bout this Martin, looks like you¡¯re goin alone¡± Axel told him with a wry grin.  ¡°Paden, you¡¯re with me.  Do exactly as I say.  If I tell you to run you run, no debate.¡±

    Paden wanted to argue but the look on Axel¡¯s face made him stop.  He slowly nodded.

    The men split into three groups.  Axel and his would set up a trap in a section of the village in preparation for Eber and Gerard to lure some of the demons into.  Axel and Paden along with four other men snuck into the outer perimeter of the village and began moving items to make a bottle neck while they made some quick pitfall traps and spread some oil covered wood and cloth at the back and into some pitfall traps.  Paden was on lookout to make sure no demon¡¯s spotted them before it was time.

    The demons were still being held up by the ironwood walls surrounding the inner village and village lord¡¯s manor.  The village guards along with other able bodied men had defended the walls with arrows and had killed fifty demons.  The orcs had still not entered the fray but should they do, it would be a matter of time until either the wall or gates fell.

    The traps were ready.  Eber and Gerard¡¯s men began to operate.  They began targeting two orcs and eight arrows impaled into the two orcs each, toppling them over as they roared in pain.  The surrounding goblins heard the roars and looked around.  Eight more arrows impaled two more orcs before they spotted the two groups.

    The goblins screeched in anger and the four foot, greyish green monsters charged Eber and Gerard¡¯s groups.  Their groups fired sixteen arrows and downed six goblins as they repeatedly retreated and turned to shoot the goblin front lines.  They managed to down fifteen or so goblins by the time they reached the trap area.

    The goblins were in hot pursuit aided by three orcs behind their lines.  They screeched and roared in absolute anger.  The orcs were feeling utterly indignant of being fought by such lowly creatures.  They had passed the rear where Axel and his group placed the flammable materials.  They noticed the odd smell but thought nothing of it and continued their charge.  When the last orc crossed a flaming arrow set their rear on fire as other arrows set fire to the side buildings sealing them in a box with the only option to charge forward.

    The goblins at the front fell into pit traps full of thatch and some oil where a flaming arrow met them setting them on fire.  Pitfall after pitfall stalled the goblins as Gerard¡¯s, Axel¡¯s and Eber¡¯s groups fired volley after volley of arrows.  The demon group was made up of thirty of their numbers when they chased Eber and Gerard and by the time they reached Axel and the others more than two thirds their numbers were gone.

    Half the men dropped their bows and took a defensive line with their hunting spears as the people at the rear shot towards the orcs hoping to down them before they reached the front.  Goblins were impaled as they approached, hindered by the chokepoint Axel and his men created.  The orcs roared angrily as arrow after arrow penetrated their chest.  One orc toppled over as froth gathered at its mouth.  The second orc had slowed down under the pressure of arrows hitting it.  The goblin numbers had been reduced to less than five as they charged with the last orc into the hunting party.

    The orc gave and angry roar as it smashed into the front line of spears with its giant club and the screams of the men rang out into the air.  Axel and Eber charged the orc as Gerard killed two goblins swiftly.  A goblin approached Paden who looked the weakest of the bunch with an evil grin.  Paden threw his bow to the side as he readied his spear, his heart racing in its chest.  The goblin charged while screeching and attacked with its rusty sword.  Paden made use of his reach and thrusted out at the goblin, missing.

    In a panic he backed up and lost his footing as he fell backwards.  Still holding his spear he closed his eyes in fright.  He expected to feel the goblin cutting him in two but the situation never came.  He opened his eyes to see the goblin impaled in the skull by an arrow.  He was utterly confused by the situation but thankful he was alive.  He looked to see Axel and Eber wounded, but alive, standing over the corpse of the orc.

    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.

    A horn resounded from behind them and they all looked to see a group of twenty soldiers on horseback.  The lead man had Martin on his back and Martin was waving and shouting at them.  A flood of relief hit Axel as he understood Martin met a patrol group and managed to convince them to come to their village¡¯s aid.

    The numbers at the wall had dwindled with the intervention of Axel and his group along with the actions of the village people.  The two hundred strong demons had been cut by half when the soldiers showed up.  With their powerful bows they launched arrow after arrow downing the remaining orcs sending their numbers into utter chaos.  Goblins fled in all sorts of directions as archers from both the walls and soldiers continued to mince their retreating numbers.

    ¡°It¡¯s over,¡± Paden sighed in relief as he fell to his butt.  He looked at the fallen orc.  They were burly creatures of about seven to eight feet with muscular arms and legs but fat bodies.  Their fat heads and pig snouts repulsed him and he could not stand to look at it any longer.

    ¡°Not quite,¡± spoke Axel gravely, as the looks of Eber and Gerard turned dark.  Paden looked at him in confusion.  ¡°Those were merely scouts.  The regularly army is made up completely of orcs.  Only the scout legions of the demons bother with the weak goblins amongst its ranks.  They will be back.¡±

    ¡°What will we do?¡± Paden asked fearfully.  He had never thought the demons would make it so far east.  Their kingdom had held off the demons the last hundred years after the fall of the Brent kingdom which bordered the Demon Empire at that time.

    Axel remained silent as he contemplated what to do next.  Scouts usually preceded the actual Demon army by two months on average as their armies took a long time to move.  Orcs were a gluttonous race and keeping them fed and satisfied was a daunting task for any middle or high demon commander.

    ¡°Eber, Gerard, things do not look good.  We may need to think about leaving soon,¡± he told his friends evenly.

    They nodded gravely.  They had fought with Axel and knew the chances of a small village like theirs against scouts much less the regular army.  It was luck the walls still stood.  Even if they were made of iron wood, the orcs could have easily broken them down, the flood of goblins would have overwhelmed the soldiers and the regular people would not have stood a chance.

    The soldiers walked up to Axel and the hunters on their horses.  Martin jumped down and the hunters gave him applause for returning with aid so quickly.  The lead commander of the soldiers looked at the sight of the hunters and the burning homes with the bodies of demons littering the streets in pleasant surprise.  Twenty men had killed three orcs and nearly two dozen goblins showed they had an experienced leader amongst them.

    The commander silently chanted some words and rain fell from the sky and began to put out the burning homes.  Looks of appreciation and thanks from the hunters were directed to the man who had used magic to help them.  It would have taken hours them to put it out themselves.  The fire was an act of desperation.  Like this they can quickly repair any damage.

    Paden watched the whole thing in wonder and confusion.  He had a strange hot feeling in his chest when the man had casted the spell.  Mages were highly respected in any kingdom as they had held the line and prevented the encroachment of demon kind for over a millennium.  In particular, battlemages, who fight on the front lines of battle, are highly regarded as national heroes.

    ¡°Much appreciated,¡± thanked Axel humbly.

    ¡°No problem.  I¡¯ll have some of my men go around and patrol for any hiding demons while putting out the fires.  Mind sparing some men to help?¡± asked the commander.

    Some of the single hunters volunteered while Axel and the other hunters went to the wall to find their families.  The gates opened slowly as the guards welcomed the commander and the returning hunters.  Some people were sent to fetch the meat they left in the forest, accompanied by some guards.  Axel left with Paden, Eber and Gerard to Gerard¡¯s brothers as their families would stay in his brother¡¯s store during times like these.

    A beautiful woman full of tears hugged Axel and Paden as they entered the shop.  Axel¡¯s wife, Leanna, was a full figured woman with red hair and green eyes.  She had an ample bosom that would always suffocate Paden when she hugged him, though he would never complain about something so enviable.  Axel¡¯s four girls came and hugged him and Axel as the families of Gerard and Eber surrounded the two with relieved expressions.

    The night was a cause for celebration.  Even though several villagers been lost, the fact they survived was cause enough for a celebration.  The meat from the hunt was retrieved.  The hunters and the lord contributed the meat to feed the people and soldiers in a night time celebration having survived the demon attack.

    Some of the hunters had wounds from the orc¡¯s charge but managed to show up to the celebration.  They only needed one working hand to drink and eat after all.  Their wives dotted on them and fed them like children and they soaked up the attention.  The bachelors amongst the hunters were getting interested glances from the single women of the village.  Even Paden was enjoying his time in the limelight.

    The hunters and Paden were hailed as heroes alongside the soldiers.  Once again, Paden was approached by Lily whom he struggled to maintain a conversation with.  The adults and other youths looked on with light grins at the scene of their ¡®shy hero¡¯.  The fires danced all night as the people ate and drank their worries away.  Tomorrow they would morn and bury the dead, knowing the demon army was likely approaching but for tonight they had not a care in the world.  They had survived.

 Chapter 3: The Visitors

    Three weeks had passed since the attack of the demon army scouts.  There was a somber mood in the air amongst the village people.  They were reasonably apprehensive of the situation.  Demon scouts usually preceded the eventual arrival of the demon army.  They could take refuge in the fort to the west or leave towards the east, away from the approaching demons.  Staying was not an option.  Mere scouts had caused such damage and they had only gotten out of it by sheer luck.

    Axel and the other men were likewise worried about the current situation.  They had decided to leave in a week¡¯s time and were slowly getting their things together and planning to abandon the village.  Others had similar ideas and were getting ready.  Axel would lead the first group of fifteen families out the village and head east.  Paden asked where they were going but got a ¡°you¡¯ll know soon¡± from Axel.

    Paden was fixing up the wood crates and chests in preparation for their move.  His possessions were originally very little so it ended up in a small wooden trunk.  The crates and boxes contained several pelts and various cloths Axel¡¯s eldest girls, Mary and Beatrice made as they worked at the loom.  They were made from wool taken from sheep they raised near their home along with chickens and pigs.

    Paden was stacking everything up near the door as it would be put in the cart a day or two before they leave.  He was feeling appreciative of Axel and his family¡¯s actions as they were not obligated to care for him in any way.  When Leanna heard that Axel allowed Paden to fight alongside the other men she tore him a new one.  She and the other women were absolutely livid they allowed the child to get so close to the action.  Paden could only smile wryly at their actions as he observed the scene a safe distance away.

    Paden sat down and spoke with Leanna and the twins, Carol and Cheryl, while the four were folding up several quilts and organizing several rolls of cloth.  The twins were running their mouths at a speed that made the little goblins seem to stand still.

    ¡°So where do you think we¡¯re going?  Dad wouldn¡¯t tell us and Mom isn¡¯t saying anything.  Even Mary and Bea have no clue.  You know don¡¯t you?  You¡¯ll tell us right?¡± ¨C Carol.

    ¡°I hope we get far away from the demons.  Even crying didn¡¯t work.  I bet you know where we¡¯re going.  Speak or I will tell Mary about the time you peeked on her,¡± said Cheryl mischievously.

    Leanna sat at the side of the table as she watched her daughters bombard Paden with question after question with a faint smile.  Paden was feeling at a loss.  The twins were initially quiet but the last year they seemed to have found their tongues finally and would not stop talking.  He shuddered to think if all that energy was collected in a single child and thanked the gods for giving Axel and Leanna twins.

    Axel walked in through the doorway with a solemn expression on his face that did not go unnoticed by his wife.  She started to get up but he shook his head at her as he looked at the back of Paden who was still being pestered by the twins.

    ¡°Paden.¡±  Paden looked at Axel quizzically.  ¡°Need your help at the lord¡¯s manor.  Mind coming with me?¡±

    Paden nodded and got up as the twins booed and told him to return back soon and tell them some stories.  The walk back was met with heavy silence which gave Paden an unnerving feeling.  He could tell something was off but could not place his finger on it and decided not to press Axel and wait for the man to tell him on his own.  They continued their silent walk up until the entrance of the inner village where they were greeted by the guards on station.

    As they walked, Paden heard the villagers talking to one another.  The lord was being visited by someone of some import.  They had come with several personal guards in an intricate carriage.  This surprised Paden as the only visitors they had were merchants and not anyone of nobility like the rumors suggested.

    Paden and Axel approached the hill the city lord¡¯s manor was situated upon.  Paden looked at the defensive logs of iron wood around the manor.  It would be the first time he had visited the lord¡¯s manor and he was slightly excited.

    They were respectfully met at the gate and let in.  Paden saw a group of soldiers adorned in a mix of plate and mail armor.  The cost of that armor baffled Paden who was only used to seeing leather and cheaper mail on the guards of their village.  These were obviously the guards of the visiting noble.  He looked at the wooden carriages of the noble that actually had glass panes on its windows.  He had never seen such clear glass before.

    The servants led Axel and a confused Paden into a sitting room where three men and a woman were sitting.  Their conversation dropped in an instant as all eyes fell on their group, more specifically, Paden.  Paden felt unnerved by the sudden situation and looked at Axel who had an unreadable expression on his face.

    ¡°It seems they have arrived,¡± commented the lord with a smile.  Paden had seen the affable man several times in the village.  He was popular as a laid back lord who did not overly burden his people.

    Paden glanced at the others.  One of the men was rigidly standing with his back to a wall while observing the whole room.  The man was solidly built at six feet.  He had brown hair and black eyes.  Along with his trimmed bear, sharp features and sharper gaze, he had a wild look that Paden envied.  The man looked to be in his late twenties.

    The other man, who was sitting, slowly stood up.  He likewise appeared to be in his late twenties, early thirties with blond hair and blue eyes.  He had sharp features paired with a soft expression and calm smile that made him appear to be easy to get along with.  He looked solidly built like the man Paden assumed was a personal guard.

    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    The woman was gorgeous.  She was in late twenties and had a gentle look about her.  She had black hair and brown eyes, possessing a fair complexion and soft features that stimulated one¡¯s desire to protect the beautiful woman.  She was skinny, making Paden wonder if she was fed properly as he resisted the urge to ogle her rather ample breasts.  He saw the elegant dress she wore and wondered how it would look on Lily shyly.

    ¡°I see young Paden is confused so I will explain.  I am your uncle and this is my wife, your aunt,¡± said the man casually as the others looked at him dumbfounded.  His straight forward explanation completely went off the script the set earlier.  The plan was to ease into explaining things to Paden and was completely ruined.

    Paden looked at him as the words slowly seeped in.  Uncle?  Aunt?  He was confused.  These people were nobility, how could they be his family?  He looked to Axel wondering if the words he heard were real.  Axel looked solemn as he returned Paden¡¯s look.

    Questions raced through Paden¡¯s mind.  Why were he and his mother here?  Why did she need to die?  Where were they when the two were working to scrape a meager living?  Where were they when his mother was sick and died?  Where were they when he was alone in the world?  Aunt?  Uncle?  So what?!

    The people looked worriedly at Paden, whose face was an unreadable mix of different emotions.  However, the drained color from his face needed no interpretation and spoke to his inner turmoil.  He closed his eyes as he tried to think, to regain his composure.  He failed.

    The world slowly spun for Paden.  His thoughts raced and turned in his mind.  The walls seemed to close in to him and the air became thin as his breathing raced to take in more air.  Axel seeing this approached Paden only to see the boy hold up a shaky hand making him worried.

    Paden left without word abruptly.  The people gathered were utterly stunned for moments before they came too.  Axel and the Paden¡¯s aunt wanted to give chase but were held back by Paden¡¯s uncle who asked them to wait while he alone chased at Paden¡¯s receding figure.

    Paden¡¯s mind was fuzzy as he walked through the village.  He heard the garbled voices of the people around him and understood some tried to talk to him but he did not stop, he could not stop.  He didn¡¯t even notice when he crossed the bridge over the river into the woods.  He didn¡¯t stop until he reached a familiar patch of grass surrounded by stones he and the other boys played at as children.

    He sunk onto the earth and reeled from the unexpected information he was given.  He wondered so much about who his father was as a child but came to resent the man as he grew.  He did nothing for him and his mother as far as he was concerned, so why should he care about the absent man?  So why now?  Why did his ¡®family¡¯ appear now, so long after his mother¡¯s death?

    Paden quietly sat on the forest floor as he tried to calm his mind, berating himself for behaving so immaturely.  He just left.  He didn¡¯t even let them explain.  He hung his head down and sighed loudly dreading having to return.  He recalled the worried and solemn expression of Axel and his heart ached.

    The silence of the forest was broken by the rustle of a bush across from Paden.  He looked and saw a goblin climb out of the bush.  He was stunned.  He was so stupid.  It was barely a month since the scout attack and he went into the forest alone.  Of all things, he did so without bringing a single weapon on him.

    The goblin looked menacingly at Paden as a twisted grin appeared on its face.  Paden felt around for a rock or branch he could use as a weapon.  This action alerted the goblin who screeched and charged for Paden.  It swiped its rusty sword and Paden narrowly dodged as he ran for the village.  However, as he was running he tripped and fell down.  He turned and looked at the slowly approaching sword in utter terror.

    Was his life to die like this?  He had just met his family.  He still needed to tell the twins stories when he got back.  Get back.  Yes, he had to get back.  His chest swarmed with the familiar heat as his will to fight rekindled.  The atmosphere in the air changed as a force silently moved with him at the center.

    The goblin was feet from him as this change was taking place.  He felt hot, terrifyingly hot.  His chest felt like it was a river of lava as it burned to get out.  He looked at the goblin and jumped up, swinging his fist.  A river of black charged from his fist and hit the goblin square in its chest.  The creature screeched in pain and finally grew silent as it fell to the ground.  Its body turned black and slowly broke down.  Paden looked at the phenomenon as the creature decomposed into black ash and disappeared into the air.

    ¡°Magic,¡± said a voice calmly behind Paden.  He looked behind at his uncle.  ¡°A meager form of miasma is the most basic form of dark magic but it is still passable,¡± said the man lightly.  He looked at Paden.  ¡°We should go back.  The villagers would have heard the goblin and your family will worry, both my wife and Axel¡¯s I assume,¡± said the man with a chuckle.

    Paden stood still.  That¡¯s right.  Their presence doesn¡¯t change his relationship with Axel and his family.  They were also his family and he a part of theirs.  Hadn¡¯t they told him this, shown it through their actions these four years?  A weight seemed to lift from his mind as he looked at his uncle¡¯s receding figure.  Had those words been to remind him of this simple fact?  A place in Paden¡¯s heart was made for his uncle that day.

 Chapter 4: Bed Time Stories

    Paden and his uncle returned to a village full of worried people who heard the cry of the goblin.  They reported to the guards who arrived to question them and they spread the word for people to not go into the forest and if they had to certainly not to do so alone.  Paden received some looks from the villagers who saw him when he was out of it earlier and fought the urge to bury his head in the ground.

    ¡°So what do you plan on doing?¡± asked his uncle.  The man observed his nephew carefully.  Despite what he said earlier, he was mildly surprised an untrained youth could manifest miasma so easily.

    ¡°For now, I want to speak to Axel and Leanna before anything else,¡± replied Paden.  His voice was steady.  Despite his earlier reaction, the youth did not seem to distance himself from the man.  His uncle smiled at this.

    ¡°The original plan was to retrieve you on your birthday in a week¡¯s time but the business with the demon scouts has complicated things,¡± sighed the man.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t help that I overreacted and ran away, did it?¡± joked Paden faintly.  His uncle looked back at him with a grin.

    ¡°Marie would probably be unwilling but we can continue our conversation tomorrow after you have had time to talk to Axel.  For now, we should show ourselves at the lord¡¯s manor.  No doubt those two have heard the goblin and all sorts of ideas are floating about their heads.¡±

    The two continued on to the lord¡¯s manor and returned to the sitting room.  Axel was still there and looked at Paden return with relief shown on his face.  His uncle¡¯s wife, Marie, rushed to Paden and gave him a big hug which surprised him as they had only met once and was unsure why she was so attached, another question for tomorrow.

    Marie looked like she wanted to tell Paden something but her husband held her back and shook his head.  Paden quietly left with Axel and returned home so they could talk.  There was an awkward silence as the two returned home and Axel was feeling very apprehensive about Paden.  The boy had not spoken to him at all since returning.

    Paden entered their home to Leanna who rushed and hugged him upon his entering.  She had heard from the neighbors Paden was in the forest when the cry of the goblin was heard and was relieved that he was safe.  Paden stood still as the woman emotionally cried her heart out and told him how sick with worry she was.  Axel stood at the side with a wry smile.

    ¡°So what¡¯s on your mind?¡± asked Axel finally.

    ¡°How long have you both known?¡± Paden finally asked.

    Axel sighed as he looked at his wife.  ¡°Since before your mother¡¯s death.¡±  Paden inhaled deeply.  Axel looked off distantly as he recalled that time.  ¡°When she fell ill, she contacted me through Leanna.  She knew she didn¡¯t have much time.  She asked me to contact your father.¡±

    ¡°So why did my aunt and uncle show up and not him?!  Where has he been?!  Where was he when mom DIED?!¡± asked Paden in anger as he smacked the table with his fist.

    Leanna and Axel looked at one another startled.  The boy had always been so calm.  They were both shocked to see he held such deep down resentment for his father.  They wondered how they missed this for so long.  If they knew, perhaps they would have talked to him sooner.

    ¡°Son, it¡¯s a long story I don¡¯t fully understand.  All I know is that your father is missing.¡±  Axel looked straight into Paden¡¯s eyes.  ¡°He¡¯s been missing since before you were born.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t either.  Believe me.  I was shocked when I learned of your father¡¯s identity.  You need to talk to your aunt and uncle if you want more.¡±  Axel sat silent.  ¡°I couldn¡¯t get hold of your old man but as luck would have it, I did know the man who married his sister, Marie.  Weillin is an old buddy of Gerard, Eber and I from our days in the military.¡±

    ¡°Took some time to contact him,¡± continued Axel.  ¡°By that time your mother had died and we had taken you in.  Met him in Avery and handed over your mother¡¯s letter and your father¡¯s signet ring to confirm your identity.  Marie wanted to bring you in then but Weillin would have nothing of it.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡± asked a confused Paden.  Why not take him in then?  Why the long wait?  Did this have to do with his father?  Who was he?

    ¡°Dunno.  Weillin didn¡¯t tell me.¡±  Paden frowned hearing that.  This wasn¡¯t missed by Axel.  ¡°I trust Weillin.  You can too, Paden.  He is a good man.  If he saw fit to wait, then there was valid reason to do so.¡±

    Paden still wasn¡¯t convinced but let it rest.  He would get answers from Weillin tomorrow.  He looked at Axel to continue.

    ¡°Well, you know the rest.  Took you in almost for four years now.  Demon scouts appeared so Weillin upped the date and here we are,¡± finished Axel.

    ¡°So what happens now?  What if I don¡¯t want to leave you and Leanna?¡± asked Paden with slight tears in his eyes.  His voice was slightly choked up and his gaze was lowered.  He really did not wish to leave them.  They were as much family to him as anyone now.

    Leanna started crying again when she heard his words, overwhelmed with emotion.  She had loved Paden like her own and didn¡¯t want to part with him.  She had argued with Axel on this point despite what grand things awaited Paden in the future.  He was still her little boy as far as she was concerned.  She hugged Paden fiercely as she sobbed.  The two men were at a loss as to how to continue.

    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think you have to worry about leaving us anytime soon,¡± grinned Axel as Leanna began to calm.  ¡°Talked to Weillin earlier before I got you.  Had a nice long chat seeing as how things have changed compared to four years ago.  You were not the only one who didn¡¯t feel like parting, son.  Seeing as how we were planning to leave the village anyway, Weillin has accepted our group to his territory,¡± Axel told the boy as if it were a mere afterthought with a grin.

    Paden was happy with the turn of events and would thank his aunt and uncle.  However, he felt Axel¡¯s casual explanation at the end should have been told at the beginning.  He began to suspect the man had done so intentionally.  Some rebellious thoughts began to circle in his mind as he determined that some form of payback was warranted.

    ¡°So what happens from here on?¡± asked Paden.

    ¡°We go back with Weillin in a week¡¯s time.  Eber, Gerard and I got work in his manor training and working as guards.  The rest of the group will have some help finding jobs in the town or the neighboring village they grow crops at and help with housing.  Seeing as how you have magic, Weillin and Marie probably have ideas of their own,¡± Axel honestly expressed.

    ¡°Or you can marry one of the girls and settle down,¡± piped Leanna.  This earned a disgruntled look from Axel which was not missed by the woman who looked at him back.  ¡°I know you have some notion that he¡¯ll go off and be some hero but I think it¡¯s better for him to settle down.¡±

    ¡°You mean safer,¡± Axel told her withholding the desire to scoff.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with safe?  Not all boys are destined for some great cause.  Why should he risk his life?¡± asked Leanna angrily.

    It was rare for the couple to argue but they had often come to blows about Paden.  Axel was a soldier and felt young boys should go out and experience the world.  Leanna felt differently.  She thought it was too dangerous and he would never come back.

    ¡°I think I want to learn more about magic,¡± Paden voiced steadily.  He had become somewhat fearful and curious about his gift.  If he learned to control it, he could better protect his family.  He also felt that lacking such control could endanger them as well.

    Leanna looked at Paden worriedly.  Axel seemed to sense this and put a hand over her shoulder as he spoke to her.

    ¡°Not like he would leave us so soon.  He would learn with Weillin and Marie.  Even if he went away, it¡¯s not like we wouldn¡¯t see him again,¡± Axel reasoned.

    ¡°Leanna, you and Axel are not like family but family to me.  I promise I won¡¯t go gallivanting into demon armies like some hero drunk child.  I will always return and see you,¡± smiled the boy.  Leanna once again hugged her boy in delight at his feelings.  Paden rarely voiced his feelings so hearing him say they were family to him meant a lot to her.

    ¡°So how do you feel ¡®bout all of this,¡± asked Axel curiously.  He had been surprised when Weillin brought him back but the boy didn¡¯t look like he had been forced.  He was slightly curious about what happened in the forest.

    ¡°Exhausted.  Feel like too much has been dropped all at once.  A sudden appearance of a long lost aunt and uncle.  Mystery surrounding my father.  Turns out I am related to nobility.  I have magic.  If there was a chance I¡¯d lose you, Leanna and the girls too, I don¡¯t know how I¡¯d go on,¡± admitted the youth.  He felt a squeeze of assurance from Leanna and gently smiled.

    ¡°Wait ¡®til you hear about your father,¡± grinned Axel receiving a look from Paden.

    ¡°Do tell then,¡± asked Paden.  He didn¡¯t quite like the smug look on Axel¡¯s face and was still miffed about Axel letting him think he was being taken back by his blood relatives and he would never see them again.

    ¡°Nope.  I could not possibly rob Weillin and Marie the chance to see the look on your face when you hear.  Nope.  Just wait ¡®til tomorrow,¡± denied the man somewhat childishly.  Leanna looked at the two and stifled a laugh.  She of course knew who his father was.

    The situation exploded when Mary and the rest of the girls ran into the house.  They had just heard about Paden being in the forest when the goblin¡¯s screech was heard.  Unfortunately, no one had bothered to tell them he had returned safely, so the four ran all the way home looking for their father.

    They were in tears as they came in alarming Axel and the rest.  The girls hadn¡¯t even noticed Paden at the table until they were halfway done.  The twins seeing Paden instantly rushed him while they were in tears.  Paden was touched and smiled wryly at the twins who were still in his arms.

    The rest of the day, the two would not leave his side and he was resigned to sitting on the sofa for the rest of the evening as the two hugged him.  The two even sat next to him for dinner.  Even as bed time approached, they still would not leave him so he ended up taking the two girls to his room and told them stories like he promised.  The three ended up sleeping in his room that night under the soft gazes of their parents.

 Chapter 5: Family

    Paden awoke the next morning mentally exhausted.  He stayed up into the night telling the little terrors several different stories before they finally fell asleep.  The worse part of it, were the two used his arms for pillows during the night and he woke up with numb arms.  His stirring was not missed by their older sisters who poked their heads into his small room with wide grins, remarkably similar to their mother¡¯s.

    Leanna had made breakfast with Mary and Bea, so the whole house began to smell of cooked meat, potatoes, oatmeal and fresh bread.  The smell stimulated Paden¡¯s stomach and it roared out making the sisters giggle as the little two awoke beside him.  He was partway off his bed when they awoke and saw him.  The two instantly darted towards him and grabbed at his sides in reluctance to part.  Their adorable actions made their older sisters laugh louder.

    Paden walked into the kitchen clumsily, with the twins on both his sides hugging him while wrapping around his legs.  Paden wore an expression of helplessness that caused Leanna and the girls to look at him dumbfounded for a moment before laughing at his situation.  Axel walked in a few moments later and looked at the situation with mild amusement before sitting down to eat.

    Paden pulled up three chairs and sat down with the twins again to eat.  Breakfast was a festive mood.  The girls still hadn¡¯t asked about what happened in the forest and Paden neglected to tell them.  The twins went back and forth asking Paden to spoon feed them.  The twins were highly dotted on by the youth who they always saw as a brother.

    ¡°When are we going back?¡± Paden asked.

    ¡°After breakfast.  Weillin and Marie are already waitin,¡± replied Axel as he dug into his meal of oats, eggs and sausage.

    ¡°What did you do at the Lord¡¯s manor?¡± Bea asked.

    ¡°Just some heavy lifting and grunt work,¡± interrupted Axel when Paden was about to speak.

    ¡°Liar,¡± replied Mary.  ¡°Your left eye always twitches when you lie.  It¡¯s why Mom always gets you,¡± Mary sung with a smile.

    ¡°I can always tell by how his brows furrow slightly,¡± replied Bea.  The twins giggled as Axel¡¯s expression turned embarrassed at the conversation subject.

    ¡°His eyes always dart back and forth and his mouth slightly curls.  It¡¯s why Eber and Gerard always beat him at cards,¡± Paden said as he trailed off remembering Axel wasn¡¯t supposed to be gambling.  However, the man completely missed his wife¡¯s expression at the moment.

    ¡°Damn!  That¡¯s why they always beat me.  Lost an entire chicken to Eber too,¡± Axel muttered under his breath.  This wasn¡¯t missed by Leanna who reached over and grabbed his left ear.

    ¡°What did I tell you ¡®bout gambling?¡±  Leanna didn¡¯t wait for him to reply as she lifted him up and dragged him by the ear outside.

    Paden listened to the man¡¯s frightful cries with a white face.  It wasn¡¯t often but when Leanna grew mad, nothing stood in her way.  She worked their small farm and the animals while Axel and Paden hunted so her strength was impressive.  The girls listened to their father¡¯s anguished yells and giggled.  Leanna wanted Paden to settle with one of her girls but given their reaction he could almost foresee himself becoming a second generation Axel in that case.

    Axel came in minutes later and brought Paden to the Lord¡¯s Manor.  They were let in to the familiar sitting room where Weillin, Marie and the guard looking guy was once again standing vigilantly.  Axel stood off to the side where he could get a good view of Paden¡¯s face.

    Paden walked in nervously and sat down.  He looked to Axel for help but the man merely shrugged his shoulders and remained standing with a roguish grin on his face.  The look confused and somewhat pissed Paden off for some odd reason.  He turned his attention to his aunt and uncle who sat down with subtle smiles on their faces.

    ¡°Welcome back,¡± Weillin greeted Paden with a bright smile.  ¡°Axel already informed us he spoke to you yesterday.  As you know, I am your uncle and this is your aunt.  She is your father¡¯s sister and was very close with him before his disappearance.¡±

    ¡°Axel wouldn¡¯t tell me.  Who is my father?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°Your father is the first son of Duke Vuthryn, commonly known as the Dark Knight of Callador¡¯s Fort,¡± Marie said with a hint of pride and worship in her voice.  She had grown up pampered by her brother and worshipped him.  Weillin had once found a hidden trove of diaries filled with her brother¡¯s exploits and old memories written in them.

    Dark Knight of Callador¡¯s Fort?!  The words spun in Paden¡¯s mind.  He blinked and shook his head as if the words had sucker punched him.  How could he not know of the famed Dark Knight?  He couldn¡¯t believe it.  That man, the one he idolized as a child with his friends was his father?  He finally opened his eyes and looked at his aunt and uncle dumbfounded.

    Axel stood off to the side and looked at Paden with a wide grin.  He could understand the youth¡¯s utter confusion and disbelief.  The man he grew up hating and the knight he grew up worshipping were one in the same.  He felt the slight need to chuckle at the reaction of the youth.

    ¡°Where is he?¡± Paden asked after finally calming down.  However, there was an obvious tremor still in his voice.

    ¡°We honestly don¡¯t know,¡± Marie told a confused Paden.

    They don¡¯t know?  The famed Dark Knight disappears and no one knows?  In fact why hasn¡¯t this been made aware to the people?  Paden was baffled by the honest reply.

    ¡°In fact, we were hoping you knew something.  We were hoping Luanne told you something about your mother and father that could help,¡± Weillin replied to a stunned Paden.

    Paden repeated the words in his head.  Father and¡­ Mother?  What did this mean?  Luanne was his mother.  Weillin¡¯s words suggested she was not.  What did he mean?

    Weillin noticed Paden¡¯s look and sensed something amiss as he looked towards Axel.  The man looked at him grimly as he shook his head.  Axel didn¡¯t tell Paden and neglected to inform them.  They would have to explain to the poor child.

    The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    ¡°What do you¡­?¡±  However, Paden¡¯s words were cut off by an understanding Weillin.

    ¡°Sorry, son.  Luanne wasn¡¯t your mother.¡±  Weillin saw the angry look in Paden¡¯s eyes and quickly continued.  ¡°What I mean, is that Luanne wasn¡¯t your birth mother.¡±

    "Luanne served as your father¡¯s maid since he was young,¡± Marie continued.  ¡°When your father went to the academy, when he entered military service, all the way up until his disappearance, she served him faithfully.  She had gone missing at the same time as your father.¡±

    ¡°We had some hope when Axel brought us news of Luanne and your father¡¯s signet ring.  However, she passed away by the time we arrived in Avery and only had her letter which contained little on the identity of your mother and far less on where your father is,¡± Weillin sighed.  He had thoroughly exhausted all means he had to find the man.

    ¡°Mom¡­ mom never spoke much about Father.  All she told me was that he was a good man.  I didn¡¯t even know about you all or who he was until now.  I grew up thinking she was my mother so I doubt I could tell you anything about my birth mother,¡± Paden replied weakly.

    Weillin and Marie looked at one another at a loss.  They had hoped to get some new information from Paden.  Alas, Luanne never told Paden anything about his father other than his good nature.  She did not tell him about his mother either.  They had thoroughly hit a dead end.

    ¡°Axel told us you wanted to learn magic,¡± Weillin mentioned, changing the topic.

    ¡°Yea, after the goblin attack yesterday, I think I should learn more.  Even if I don¡¯t have much talent at the very least I should learn to control it.¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about talent,¡± Weillin chuckled as he remembered his words and the boy¡¯s father.  ¡°I am a light magician but your aunt is a skilled dark magician.  She can teach you as we head back to our territory.¡±

    ¡°How far is it?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°Three weeks travel.  Considering the size of the group, maybe a month or five weeks at the latest,¡± Weillin replied.  ¡°Can you read?¡±

    ¡°Some.  Mom used to teach me.  After she died I didn¡¯t really have anyone teach me.  Not much in the way of books to read out here,¡± Paden said with a shrug.

    ¡°We can pick up some books at Avery.  I can give you a refresher on reading during the journey,¡± Marie said joyfully.  It would give her some one on one time with her nephew.  The child looked so much like his father, albeit a little softer compared to his rugged looking father from her memories.

    ¡°Did Axel and them teach you anything besides the bow?¡± Weillin asked.  Paden was confused as to why he¡¯d asked but replied.

    ¡°Mostly, taking care of the bow and my knives.  Gerard taught me some spear.  That and skinning and field dressing different game,¡± Paden told Weillin with some mild confusion in his voice.

    Weillin looked up at Axel with a look of irritation on his face.  Axel returned the look, somewhat bashful as he shrugged his shoulders.  Axel was supposed to teach the bow some military arts like the sword, bow and spear.  The last two were covered but the first was obviously neglected as shown by the boy¡¯s words.  He could only sigh.  Axel was an axe wielder, Eber was a bowman and Gerard was a spearman.  The three had some training with the sword but were by no means master.

    ¡°Is there a problem?¡± Paden asked worriedly.

    ¡°Not really.  You can start training later when we arrive in our territory.  You¡¯ll be behind others who enter the academy though,¡± Weillin sighed.

    ¡°Academy?¡± ¨C Paden.

    Weillin nodded.  ¡°The plan is to send you to the academy to learn.  Noble children would usually be instructed by their families and have no problems with the lessons.¡±

    ¡°Is there a need to go through the academy?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°Marie can only instruct you in so much.  Duke Vuthryn¡¯s family could instruct you fully but seeking aid from them is a little¡­¡± Weillin trailed off as he looked at Marie.  She had a complicated look at the subject of her family.

    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°It is unknown if they would even acknowledge much less help you.  Duke Vuthryn is a prideful man.  Very strict.  Our relations have been severely strained as of late and your uncle who will succeed him is even more antagonistic with our family,¡± Weillin informed Paden with a wry shrug.

    ¡°Why¡­?¡±  However, Paden was interrupted by Marie.

    "Why wouldn¡¯t they acknowledge you?  It shames me to say this but Father is a cold man.  He would sooner kill you than acknowledge brother slept with some woman of unknown origins.  After his disappearance, there were some talks among the higher ups that he eloped with Luanne.  It brought great shame and enraged Father,¡± Marie said with a sad look on her face.

    They were a large reason as to why they kept Paden with Axel.  It saddened her to admit it but even she would not put it passed her father to kill the boy and silence anyone with knowledge to his existence.  Even her little brother had grown increasingly cold in his dealings with her.  It broke her heart that she thought she could not trust the two.

    ¡°When will I have to go to the academy?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°Eight months from now in mid summer.  You will enter as a first year.¡± ¨C Weillin.

    ¡°What does one usually learn?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°You¡¯ll enter under the magician¡¯s course.  You¡¯ll take some history and some military training alongside standard magic classes.¡± ¨C Weillin.

    ¡°Are there other courses?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°Noble¡¯s, Knight¡¯s, Soldier¡¯s, Government, Merchant¡¯s, Healer''s.  There are others but I suggest magician¡¯s as they have wide use in varying areas of the kingdom.¡± ¨C Weillin.

    Paden, Weillin and Marie spent the rest of the time talking.  They asked some stories about how he was living.  They told him about the town they lived in and their children.  They continued to talk until it was lunch time.  Paden left with Axel to go home.  They still needed to load the wagon and prepare for their departure.  Weillin and his group would meet them near the edge of town and they would leave together.

 Chapter 6: Avery

    Paden had been on the road for a week now.  True to his word, Weillin provided increased security for their caravan with his soldiers.  Paden had ridden along with his aunt and Leanna who became fast friends.  The girls took turns riding in the luxurious carriage, trading places every day while the other rode with Axel in his wagon.

    Marie¡¯s lessons on magic, for the most part, were spent on trying to get Paden to rediscover the feeling he had when he had cast the spell in the forest.  He was successful 3 out of ten times in feeling his power and only successful 1 out of those three times in manifesting a miasma.  Marie said it was a good attempt considering he had no prior knowledge or training but he was not content.

    ¡°How long until Avery?  You told us it would be a week.  Paden will you take us shopping?  What are you doing?  Can you show us?¡± ¨C Carol.

    ¡°Are we there yet?  It¡¯s been a week.  Take us shopping please.  Are you still practicing magic?  Can we learn?¡± ¨C Cheryl.

    Paden wanted to cry whenever the two took their turn in the carriage.  It was a test of his focus whenever he trained in their presence.  It didn¡¯t help that a trip normally four days was extended due to the size of their caravan.  He wanted so much to get to Avery and have a break.  Shopping with the two terrors didn¡¯t seem half as bad as being locked in a cramp space with them.

    ¡°We should be there by the afternoon.  See those rocks that look like two bears?  That shows we are not far from Avery,¡± Leanna told the two.

    The trip to Avery didn¡¯t last an hour from those rocks and the twins began to excitedly jump in the carriage.  Leanna had trouble calming them down as Marie laughed at the two¡¯s antics.  Ignoring their mother, the two turned to Paden making him a little nervous.

    ¡°What¡­?¡± Paden asked unsure.

    ¡°Take us shopping.¡± ¨C Carol.

    ¡°Take us shopping.¡± ¨C Cheryl.

    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea,¡± Marie said while clapping her hands together.

    Leanna nodded her head.  There was an unspoken understanding between the two.  Both wanted to spend time with Paden so they worked together to cut him off.  Paden couldn¡¯t refuse their request as Leanna was a mother to him and Marie had slowly grown on him the last week.  Paden nodded making the girls joyful.

    The caravan situated itself just outside the city walls.  Weillin and Marie would stay in an inn and offered to put up Leanna and the girls with Paden.  Axel felt a little glum as he was left out to watch their Wagon.  Weillin told him he¡¯d send out some alcohol which perked him right back up.

    Paden and their group got out the carriage outside an expensive looking inn.  The area around looked pristine and the streets wide.  There were people coming and going in luxurious looking clothes.  He could hear some laughter and people looking at their group making him feel very self-conscious.

    They walked into the inn and were greeted by the owner and several staff.  The owner was tipped off by his informants that someone of import had shown up.  Hearing the names from his source in the guards, he realized right away their group had some relationship with a marquis house.  Understanding this, he had gotten up and prepared to receive them personally.

    Paden was surprised by the reception and mistook it as something common for an inn of the higher class.  He looked at some of the men who were looking at his aunt and Mary with some lecherous looks.  It took every ounce of restraint to not pound their teeth in there and then.

    ¡°Welcome young Lord,¡± greeted the weasel looking man.  The movements of his hands and ugly smile made him look like a very bad character to Paden.

    ¡°We will be needing residence for the night.  I need some rooms for my soldiers and for our family,¡± Weillin spoke with an out of character, commanding voice Paden never heard before.  He could almost not put it with the affable man he had interacted with the last two weeks.

    Marie and Weillin got their own room.  Leanna would sleep with Mary and Bea while he got a room with the twins.  They originally were going for a two bed room but the twins cried and begged for a large single bed to share.  There were feelings of jealousy in Mary and Bea who used to sleep with Paden when they were younger.  Having grown up they could no longer do that.  They could only envy the young Carol and Cheryl who were able to monopolize the youth.

    It took a little bit to set things in their rooms.  The little terrors bounced up and down on the bed, having only slept on animal furs, it was a first for them to experience such soft mattresses.  Even Paden was overwhelmed by the soft comfort of the bed.  When he heard the comment of Weillin who only viewed the beds as ¡®barely passing¡¯ he almost fell dumbfounded.  If the beds here were barely passing, he could hardly fathom the kinds of beds they slept on.

    Having fixed themselves, the girls were ready to go out shopping.  It was barely noon so they had hours to shop before dinner.  Weillin put eight guards on their group for protection.  The stoic looking man Paden first met at the Lord¡¯s accompanied them.  Paden finally learned his name was Randolph.  He found the man to be quiet when he was on duty but oddly friendly when he was off with Axel and the other two.

    Weillin passed Paden some money.  Paden tried to object but was given a stern reply from Weillin who would not give up the opportunity to dote on his nephew.  Paden nodded and accepted the coins.  He would use them to buy some things for the women, he decided.

    The twins held Paden¡¯s hands as they left the inn and headed into the merchant district.  They gawked around at all the stalls set up on the street and into the rare glass windows of the stores.  Paden found a stall selling sweet candies.  He remembered having tried some a few years back and decided to buy some for the girls.  The twins went wild for the new experience.  The women thanked Paden and continued.

    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

    They stopped at a shop selling some clothes.  Leanna and Marie double teamed Paden in an attempt to embarrass him by making him watch as they tried on clothes.  Paden quickly reddened as he fled the sight of the two beautiful women exposing their flesh slightly.  Mary and Bea caught this and decided to tease Paden in the same way.  He finally had enough and left the shop as he stood next to four guards outside who wore grins at his enviable plight.

    The girls came out an hour later and laughed at the miserable expression on Paden¡¯s face.  They continued to shop around and Paden would find some snacks and buy them for the group.  Paden stopped at a stall selling accessories.  They were not overly expensive but looked pretty nonetheless.  The merchant was very good with his words and lured the girls in.  Paden was forced to buy the six something after seeing their pleading look.

    He wanted to buy them the same thing but got angry rebukes.  He relented and chose each accessory for them individually.  Marie got a necklace and black pendent.  Leanna got a similar necklace with a red pendant.  Mary and Bea got rings with a purple and red stone set in.  Carol and Cheryl got matching bracelets with charms attached.

    The walked over to another area and began to look at the shops.  Paden noticed Mary and Bea who walked off without their guards and furrowed his brows.  Did they ditch their guards, he wondered?  Paden informed one of the guards and took another to follow behind the misbehaving girls.  They were laughing at a stall, looking at some rolls of clothes when a pudgy looking youth walked up to them with an arrogant expression on his face.

    ¡°What adorable cuties you two are.  How about you let me buy you those rolls of cloth and we go back to my home?¡± the youth asked with a smug look.  His eyes traced the figures of Mary and Bea.

    The two noticed his gaze and felt utterly repulsed by him.  Sensing something off, they gave each other a look of understanding.  The toad like youth was certainly someone they didn¡¯t want to interact with.  They quietly ignored the youth and put the rolls down and strolled off.

    Their indifference infuriated the youth.  His father was cousin to the town lord and was a successful merchant.  The youth would regularly go out and find some young girl to have his way with.  When he saw the red headed sisters, the prospect of bedding the two filled his mind.  Who would have thought that he would be so casually ignored?

    Paden watched as the youth walked after them.  He felt something wrong so he quickly walked over as the youth grabbed Mary¡¯s arm with force.  His face was contorted in rage as he yanked her.

    ¡°You two, grab the other.  Ignore me, will they?  I¡¯ll show them,¡± said the youth darkly as two guards appeared from behind him.

    Paden heard his words and was instantly infuriated.  He walked up and cut off the guards and punched the youth.  He fell over as he squealed in pain as he hit the floor with a thunderous plop that shook the area.  All eyes fell on Paden who proceeded to stomp the youth as his guards looked on in astonishment before trying to rush him.

    Paden¡¯s guard unsheathed his sword and startled the other two.  Randolph arrived but stood off to the side and watched with interest in how Paden would handle himself.  Paden was worked up in a righteous fury.  He looked down at the youth who touched his sisters.  He was huffing in anger as he contemplated whether he should continue his beating.

    The youth looked at Paden in anger and shot up.  He was pissed and rage took over all reason as he took a sword from the wastes of his guards.  He rushed to attack Paden who instantly unsheathed a dagger Weillin had given him for protection.  Paden dodged the youth¡¯s clumsy strike and impaled his right hand with the dagger.  The youth wailed in horror at the pain as he collapsed and passed out.

    Paden grunted.  The youth was so weak.  He cleaned the blood with his shirt and sheathed it.  The two guards retreated with the youth leaving Paden surrounded by shocked gazes of the townspeople and his sisters.  Paden turned around and looked at the two in anger.  He was still upset they dodged their guards.  However, he would let Axel and Leanna punish them.

    The three walked back with Paden¡¯s guard as Randolph walked from a safe distance away.  He was happy with his performance.  However, Paden was still marked him down some.  He would have simply killed the youth rather than injure or cripple as he had.

    Leanna was waiting with the twins and Marie.  Mary and Bea ran back to her and explained what happened when questioned.  They were slapped and then hugged.  Leanna was angry with them but filled with relief that nothing happened.  It was not uncommon for powerful men to take women in larger towns by force.  She gave Paden an appreciative nod.

    As the day was now ruined by the events, they decided to head back to the inn.  Marie stayed back some to talk with Randolph on what transpired.  She was happy with her nephew¡¯s skill with the dagger.  However, she was of the same opinion as Randolph.  She too would have simply killed the youth had she been attacked.  She could only sigh at her nephew¡¯s immaturity.

 Chapter 7: Na?ve

    Paden and their group arrived at the inn before dinner.  He went to his room and was followed by the girls.  Leanna returned to her own room to freshen up to eat.  The room of Weillin and Marie had its own sitting and dining space off their actual bedroom.  Their group would gather there later to eat.

    The twins were pestering Paden on what happened earlier with Mary and Bea.  He of course told them nothing which only made them more curious.  Paden saw this would go nowhere so he told them sternly to drop it.  The twins saw Paden¡¯s serious expression and so they listened.  It was not often Paden was strict with them and they didn¡¯t want him mad.

    Paden meanwhile, comforted Mary and Bea.  They were still slightly scared over what happened.  Leanna had told them stories but they didn¡¯t listen.  What they saw made everything they were told all the more real to them.

    An hour later, Leanna came knocking at Paden¡¯s door.  She took the girls to her room to get ready for dinner with Weillin and Marie.  Paden saw them out and picked out the clothes Marie and Leanna bought him earlier.  The clothes were a green, long sleeved shirt, black pants and vest.  They were made of finer threads than he was used to and he felt nervous over the prospect of getting them dirty at dinner.

    He met Leanna and the girls outside his room and walked with them to Weillin and Marie¡¯s room.  Paden had heard the room was large but its size made his scalp tingle.  The room was outrageously big in his opinion.  Their home in the village could easily fit in this room and still have space left over.

    ¡°Welcome,¡± Marie told their group vibrantly as they were let into the large sitting room.

    Paden sat down as his sides were instantly claimed by the twins.  A sullen Mary and Bea sat on the outside.  Leanna and Marie laughed inwardly at the girls and Paden¡¯s obliviousness.  Leanna and Marie conversed while the children listened and quietly waited.

    Servants later called for Marie and the group into the dining room.  They went over and found Weillin already sitting down being served some soup.  The rest sat and were served soup and some dinner rolls.  The girls were disappointed as there was nothing visible in the soup.  However, one taste made them change their minds.

    ¡°Delicious,¡± spoke all four after one taste.

    Paden agreed.  The soup had possessed nothing and appeared like a bowl of golden water.  However, that plain appearance hid the flavor within.  Paden savored every spoonful of soup.  There was a look of loss on his face when he finished the last bit of soup.  He had never tasted something so delicious in his life.

    As they were finishing the second course was brought in by servants once again.  Paden looked down at his plate in complete shock.  He could not recognize the meat before him.  He had hunted plenty in the forest and he was completely confused about his inability to analyze what was in front of him.  He looked and saw similar looks on the girls¡¯ and a look of disbelief on Leanna¡¯s.

    ¡°The meat is from the wild thunderclap sheep,¡± Weillin informed Paden when he noticed his look.

    Paden was shocked.  The sheep Weillin spoke of was a species of sheep that had become a demonic beast.  Since the incursion of demons into the world several animal species underwent various changes becoming demonic beasts.  Many are inedible to humans but the few that are possess varying effects.  Nobles who eat demonic beasts have higher life expectancies and the meat itself rots at a slower rate compared to normal meat.

    Paden cut a piece of the sheep and put it in his mouth.  The texture was indescribably different from other animals.  The juices mixed with the various herbs and spices swum over his tongue.  The soup paled in comparison to the main dish.  He could feel that area in his chest began to warm and was confused.  Did demonic beast meat have an effect on his magic, he wondered?

    Leanna knew about demonic beast meat and she was surprised Weillin casually brought it out for their meal.  Although her girls had never eaten it before, she once had some more than a decade ago.  She smiled inwardly as she toyed with the idea to tell Axel.  She knew the man would be jealous of their fortune.  Ever since he had some in the army, he had spent days trying to find some demonic beasts even though they never migrated near their village.

    ¡°I heard about the events earlier today,¡± spoke Weillin as they finished their meal and were conversing.  ¡°I have to remind you not to leave the sight of your guards when we visit any towns.¡±  The twins looked confused about the subject but Mary and Bea hung their heads down.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry they won¡¯t be going out into the towns anytime soon.  I¡¯ll be telling their father about today.  They will stay with him at the wagon next time,¡± spoke Leanna sternly.

    The two girls looked sullen.  They berated themselves for ditching their guards.  They should have listened.  Now that they would not get to shop in the next town, they were regretful.

    ¡°That reminds me,¡± spoke Marie.  ¡°The servants bought some books from some local shops.  With this, we can begin to test your reading skills.  There were some magic books amongst the lot as well.  Mostly basic information the kingdom allows to be distributed to commoners but a start nonetheless.¡±

    Paden listened with slight interest.  While reading wasn¡¯t a passion of his, that was more an effect of having nothing to read.  He was curious about magic.  His father was the Dark Knight.  He wondered how powerful he could be.  Would he gain the fame that his father had earned?

    Dinner over Leanna and the two returned to their room.  Paden returned with the twins.  They changed and Paden once again told the two stories of faraway lands, noble princes, and evil men before sleeping.  He was once again in between the two who used his arms once again as pillows.

    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

    The next morning they gathered early for breakfast.  The meal was not demon beast meat to Paden¡¯s disappointment.  He had grown a fondness for the burning sensation and taste the meat gave him.  He was determined to find a way to hunt the beasts in the future.

    Finished with breakfast Paden left for the lobby.  Leanna and the other girls were helping with packing their things from the day they spent shopping.  Weillin and Marie had just come down from their room when an individual walked in with several guards in mail.  Paden noticed the man scanned the building as he signaled his men.  Someone went over and out came a nervous looking proprietor.

    ¡°I¡¯m looking for a young man and two girls,¡± spoke the man pompously.

    This piqued Paden¡¯s interest as he re-examined the man.  He had brown hair and was in his forties.  He wore expensive clothing that covered his plump stomach.  Paden felt something familiar about the man but could not put his finger on it.

    A shout from outside got his attention.  The voice sounded familiar to Paden as well but he couldn¡¯t seem to place it.  The doors opened as the arrogant youth from yesterday walked in.  He took one look at Paden and pointed at him.

    ¡°Father!  This is him.  This is the bastard that stabbed and tried to murder me.  If not for my guards he would have killed me,¡± cried the youth shamelessly.

    Silence fell in the lobby as all eyes fell on Paden who was dumbfounded at the youth¡¯s claim.  He tried to murder the youth?  There were witnesses yesterday.  How could he speak such lies openly, wondered Paden?

    ¡°Seize him!¡± ordered the youth¡¯s father.

    Several guards of the man moved to secure Paden.  Weillin waved his hand and eight guards encircled Paden with their swords drawn.  The act surprised the father.  Weapons were usually secured by the town guard.  The people who could carry weapons within a town were limited and restricted.  He looked at Weillin and Marie curiously.

    ¡°What relation is that young man to you,¡± asked the man with a crooked smile.

    ¡°It is of no business of yours,¡± spoke Marie coolly.  Her words surprised Paden who only knew his aunt to be kind.

    ¡°The boy tried to murder my son.  I am afraid I have to insist.  As it stands, the boy is a criminal,¡± spoke the man.  He could have his cousin help out.  It was the reason he paid the man.

    ¡°Paden, the child is?¡± inquired his aunt coolly.

    ¡°Tried to take Mary and Bea by force.  I knocked him out and he tried to kill me,¡± replied Paden not hiding his contempt for the youth.

    ¡°I see,¡± spoke Marie slowly as she walked forward.  Weillin knew what was coming but he couldn¡¯t stop her.  He would have a lot to clean up.  ¡°However, it seems you made a mistake.¡±

    The father and son were giddy.  They thought she was capitulating.  They were so wrong.  So very wrong.

    ¡°If someone like him does something like that you do not wound him,¡± spoke Marie as a black haze surrounded her arm.  The faces on the two twisted in fear.  The woman before them was a mage.  ¡°Next time this happens and he tries to kill you, kill them,¡± she taught her na?ve nephew.  Her family was high nobility.  There are few aside from the royal family she would not offend.

    The words shocked the father and son duo and alarmed their guards.  However, they could not stop the haze from becoming a snake.  It launched off Marie¡¯s arms, coiled its way to, then up the youth and finally down his throat.  The boy turned black as his body fell limp.  It turned to ash and a sudden gust of wind blew it away until nothing was left.

    The father saw this and grew enraged.  He thought he could overpower and kill her.  He would deal with the consequences later.  His cousin would help him as he was the lord.  However, Marie already felt his bloodlust.  A second snake had already coiled and killed the man before he gave his order.

    The guards looked dumbfounded at their boss¡¯s death.  They ran out in a panic and retreated to the town lord who sent guards to the arrest the couple.  Weillin showed them some papers and those guards grew white as they apologized hastily.  All the men cursed inwardly at the ignorance of their lord and his cousin.

    Make enemies of two duke families?  Weillin himself was a lower baron who would succeed his father as duke.  The two they killed were rich, but still commoners.  No one would bat an eye to their deaths.  They were pissed when they learned later that the woman was a mage and were not informed.

    Paden watched the unfolding events in shock.  His aunt so casually killed two people.  He hated them but not enough to kill.  Stranger still was when the guards came.  They immediately backed off when they learned Weillin was a noble.  So this is the difference between nobles and commoners, Paden reflected.  They could kill and commoners were too weak to resist.  The thought filled him with sadness.

    Marie told Leanna and Axel what happened when they met up later.  Leanna made sure to tell Mary and Bea.  Their actions risked themselves and even Paden was dragged in.  They would remember to act more cautiously and remember they were no longer in the small village where they were ruled by a kind lord.

    Paden thought deeply that night in camp.  The magic he saw left a deep impression on him.  He contemplated on his aunt¡¯s words.  The world he lived in was one where people kill for the slightest of offenses.  He let someone go who brought back more trouble.  He slowly felt his thoughts changing.  Maybe he should have killed the youth as soon as he made an attempt on his life.

 Chapter 8: On the Road Again

    AN: Author Here. All of what I am posting are rough drafts and are cluttered with various errors and read coarsely.  I had an enlightening post on chapter five with various suggestions to improve not only my writing but the flow of my story.  If anyone has any constructive suggestions like that, feel free to post.  Or you can post your thanks or what you like.  Your feedback is the equivalent to cookies for authors.

    That is all.

    A week had passed by since their stop in Avery.  Weillin used his own coin to buy supplies for the families in their caravan earning a lot of gratitude.  Weillin became fast friends with a lot of the other men through the help of Axel, Eber and Gerard.  He got a good understanding of their circumstances and their strengths.

    A lot of the men were former soldiers and hunters while their families worked farms.  Weillin¡¯s father was expanding the number of villages in their territories and was starting one outside some ways from their town.  They were lacking able bodied men who could serve as guards.  The younger sons would serve as recruits and their fathers would continue on as hunters while some of the younger sons worked their farms.

    Axel, Eber, and Gerard were close friends of Weillin and had jobs already made as guards on his property.  The three would also help train the younger ones in the axe, bow, and spear as they already had a sword instructor.  The guard jobs paid well so Leanna and the girls didn¡¯t need to work fields or raise animals like they used to.  Paden wondered what they would do when they got to Weillin and Marie¡¯s.

    ¡°Wrong.  That word is disfigurement,¡± corrected Marie.

    ¡°Disfigurement,¡± repeated Paden.

    He and Marie were reading one of the common magic texts that were purchased in Avery.  The boy picked up reading easily.  He made some minor errors but they would correct themselves as he regularly practiced reading.  The problem was his lack of vocabulary.  There was no quick fix for that either.  He would have to read and gradually expand it himself.

    ¡°Alright, that is enough,¡± declared Marie.

    Marie and Paden had their own carriage.  They did not ride with Leanna and the others as they had before.  Paden was at a critical juncture where a moment¡¯s distraction could harm or possibly kill him.

    Paden was now more adept at controlling his magical powers.  Marie found to her surprise he didn¡¯t need external aids such as charms or chants to manifest his ability.  She had suspicions after Weillin¡¯s recount of what happened in the forest but she did not dare believe it.  Mages who went beyond rigid practices in chants and charms were far too rare.  She was filled with pride that her nephew was an adept in dark magic.  This ability mirrored her elder brother¡¯s own ability.

    ¡°Now we will begin magic practice,¡± began Marie.  ¡°Feel the power that wells in your chest.  Let its power fill you.  Hold out your hand and focus it over your hand.  Imagine a sphere.¡±

    Paden focused inwardly on his chest, trying to recall that familiar sensation.  A hot stream of lava filled his chest.  He raised his hand and looked at the space above it, imagining a sphere as his aunt instructed.  The feeling of lava seemed to flow in his veins and move along his right arm to his hand.  A dark sphere appeared in the air.  He smiled.  This was the ninth time he had succeeded.

    ¡°Good, good,¡± Marie spoke while clapping her hands with a smile.  ¡°Immediate success.  Far better than last week.  Very good progress.  Next, we need to deal with your speed.¡±

    ¡°Speed?¡± Paden asked quizzically.

    ¡°Yes, speed,¡± Marie spoke gravely.  ¡°Speed is very important.  Your enemies will not sit back and let you cast your spells.  That habit of closing your eyes will also have to be corrected.  Those weaknesses will get you killed,¡± Marie warned him.

    Paden gulped as he considered her words.  The vision of him trying to cast a spell only to be charged by an orc and killed in an instant filled his head.  He nodded at his aunt.  Paden understood he was not strong, not yet.  He was probably behind the children of nobility much less those of his age.  This was not good.  The recent events in Avery filled him with a desire to quickly grow stronger.

    This was a world where a commoner could be killed by a noble without question.  His aunt was a noble.  His father was a noble.  However, that did not make him a noble.  He would need to fight and earn recognition on the fields of war like his father and earn a title for himself.  Even then, there would be others above him who could easily snuff out his life.  Paden could feel the faint specter of an axe raised to his neck.  He needed more power and he needed it soon.

    ¡°How do we increase my speed?¡±

    ¡°As we don¡¯t have the necessary items or facilities, just continue to manifest the dark sphere.  Try to go faster and faster,¡± Marie replied casually.

    Paden just stared.  That¡¯s it?!  Paden sighed and began to channel his power.  Thud!  Paden felt something hit his head and opened his eyes.

    ¡°Stop closing your eyes,¡± Marie instructed him.

    Paden kept his eyes open and began channeling his magic.  Thud!  This time he saw it coming and looked in irritation.

    ¡°Too slow!¡± Marie complained.

    Like this, Marie ¡®instructed¡¯ Paden.  The day concluded with very little learned and Paden feeling like a punching bag for his aunt.  A large lump had formed at the top of his skull which stung when he touched it.  Paden was feeling wronged and wished the affable Weillin was teaching him at this point.  Where had his soft, kind aunt gone this last week?

    The caravan found a camping spot in a clearing near the main road and organized their wagons in a box formation.  Weillin¡¯s guards were stationed around the camp in organized groups for protection.  The guards and men would alternate in mixed pairs for night watch.  The women would organize several areas for cooking.

    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    Dinner that night consisted of preserved meat, beans, potatoes, and various herbs and spices in a type of stew.  Another group baked some bread with the white flour Weillin provided.  Best bread Paden ever had.  Most of his experience with bread was the hard loaves made of a type of flour that made harder bread.  He was very happy with the meals since leaving the village and slightly pined for the taste of demonic beast meat like he had in Avery.

    That night Paden and his sister slept in their wagon with Leanna.  Axel had watch duty with Gerard and was out with the other guards.  The night was still and the group quietly slept with full bellies.

    Groups of men hid themselves in the woods next to the clearing Paden¡¯s group had set camp.  Their numbers were more than fifty and had rushed from their normal area of operations to find this particular group.

    The city lord of Avery had been a busy man.  He had been thrown out of office after a vote made from its leaders.  The guards had reported the man¡¯s brother had tried to kill the child of a noble family and was instead killed.  The Lord had then sent men to arrest them, knowing they were nobles.  Not only that, he had failed to inform the guards those nobles were magicians.

    This caused unrest amongst the guards who made complaints.  The leaders used this opportunity to censure the Lord and vote him out of office.  The former lord then decided the cause of his situation was Weillin and his group.  He then went out and hired a group of mercenaries to find and kill them.

    The mercenaries had finished their scouting.  They had heard there was a female dark mage in the group but had made preparations.  They quietly approached the camp from the woods using the night to their advantage.  However, luck was not on their side and they approached the area Gerard and Axel were at.

    Axel had keen vision and senses.  He was alerted by the abrupt silence of the surrounding insects and change in the night air.  He managed to glimpse a flash from an uncovered portion of metal one of the mercenaries were wearing and tossed a torch over their heads, revealing their approaching numbers.

    ¡°Attack!¡± Axel boomed as he raised the alarms.

    The trained soldiers of Weillin and the other men leapt to action.  Paden awoke to the yells and clash of metal outside their camp.  The noise woke his sisters who were frightened by the obvious sound of battle.  Paden left his knife with Leanna and took his bow and quiver to join the men.

    Paden found the area with the other boys of his age.  They were not shooting as they had no visibility of the battle.  They could barely make out shadows of people.  However, their prayers for light were answered.  A large sphere of light ascended into the sky and illuminated the battlefield.  The boys and Paden quickly took to flying their arrows onto the lines of attacking men further at the back.

    ¡°Light mage!¡± shouted a mercenary.

    The commander cursed inwardly.  They had prepared for the dark mage but the light mage would be difficult.  He contemplated sounding the retreat then and there.  However, the bonus offered by the former lord was too irresistible.  So what if he lost a few men?

    Paden and the youths launched arrows on the rear enemies as Axel and the guards defended the perimeter.  Paden saw Randolph charge into the enemies.  His swordplay was impressive as he darted about with sword and shield.  Even surrounded by five men, Randolph would effortlessly move as if he had eyes on the back of his head.

    Paden looked transfixed on Weillin as he stood on top of one of the wagons.  Some of the attackers launched arrows but a thin layer of light reflected them.  Weillin withdrew a sword at his wait and an intense light enveloped a dumbfounded battlefield.  The light receded and Weillin was donned in a resplendent white armor that exuded a soft light.  The mercenary leader saw this change in Weillin and paled in fright.

    ¡°B-b-battle mage!¡± cried the man, sending his forces into panic.

    Weillin¡¯s side roared in cheer as their morale soared.  Weillin jumped off the wagon and dashed into the battlefield.  Men fell one after another to his swift speed and impenetrable defense.  Paden looked and found, to his surprise, that men who had light bruising and injuries were visibly healing before his eyes.  What sort of magic was this?  Weillin secured several mercenaries and the man he suspected to be the leader.

    Cheers resounded amongst the men.  Not a single soul was lost and all those who had been injured, were miraculously restored to full health.  Paden went back with his friends while the older men looted the field.  The bodies would be left out for vultures but the armor and weapons would serve to earn them coin.  They would divide the loot later.

    Meanwhile, Weillin was interrogating the surviving mercenaries.  A few minutes alone with Randolph served to loosen their tongues.  Weillin frowned as he heard their master was the cousin of the man they killed earlier.  He was no longer lord.  Although he still had his wealth that would not protect him, not from Weillin.

    Weillin already decided to murder the man.  Some coin to an assassin group would silence the man forever.  Weillin had employed them on numerous occasions and their ability as well as silence was top notch amongst the others of their profession.  Killing a former lord who was a commoner would incur no loss or retribution from his side.  Should have known his place and kept quiet, Weillin inwardly thought.

    He also recalled this extended from the events in Avery.  He toyed with bringing in Paden and making him understood the cause of tonight''s attack.  The boy lacked an awareness for his position and worse, lacked the decisiveness to take action.  That immaturity would need to be fixed soon or he will not survive the Academy much less the world.

 Chapter 9: Trash

    Three days had passed since the attack on their caravan.  Paden was thankful for their good fortune.  Though they had been attacked, no one had been killed.  All the wounded men had miraculously been healed by whatever Weillin had done during the battle.  Weillin and Axel on the other hand breathed a sigh of relief as none of the men showed any signs of being invisibly scared by the battle.  Not even magic could heal wounds of the mind, heart and soul.

    Their group was parked on the side of the highway in a clearing once again.  They chose an area with a wide open view that was not close to the forest as they had been.  Although the mercenaries were dead it was not impossible that the former lord of Avery did not hire anyone else.

    Weillin talked it out with Marie and decided they would have someone make contact with the Gift from the Woods organization to assassinate the former lord.  The man had unwisely chosen to provoke their ire.  He, a mere commoner, forgot his place and decided to gaze upon and harbor ill intent for his betters.

    All of this was of course not made known to Paden.  The youth still thought the attackers had been mere highway bandits.  Paden was sitting on the outside circle of the youth area as he ate.  Paden would glance every now and then at Lily.  She, her younger brother and sister had joined their uncle and his family, while their father and mother closed up the inn and sold the things they needed to get rid of in Avery.

    She was sitting with another youth he was familiar with.  It seemed the two had begun spending more time together after the demon attack a month ago.  He had spotted them the other day making out in secret.  The sight shocked him to the core and the sadness almost made him reveal his presence.  It took great effort for him to get away quietly and not alert them.

    Paden had been moping around the better part of the day, berating himself for being so slow.  Had he missed his only chance with Lily in this lifetime, he wondered.  Everyone was oblivious to the troubles of youth, still concerned with the attack from a few nights back.  Paden merely smiled weakly and gave noncommittal answers back to anyone who approached him as he quietly thought.

    ¡°Paden, Auntie Marie wants to see you,¡± ¨C Carol.

    ¡°I¡¯ll finish your food,¡± spoke Cheryl as she happily took his plate.  Paden got up and rubber her head lightly with a weak smile as he left.

    Paden found his aunt with Weillin in their tent.

    ¡°Aunt Marie, you called for me?¡±

    ¡°Yes.  We will arrive at Woodhaven tomorrow.  We will be going into town.  Leanna and the girls will stay with Axel so they are leaving you with us.  I don¡¯t need to remind you about not repeating the events in Avery, right?¡± Marie asked him coldly.

    Paden shivered and nodded his head.  He had thought a lot about the events in Avery.  He had gotten lucky that the people he offended were not anyone of import but he could not make that assumption.  It would be better to be unassuming and if trouble comes he should act decisively.  Although, he did not see how he could find it in himself to kill someone as nonchalantly as his aunt had.

    ### ### ###

    Their group reached the walls of Woodhaven.  Like in Avery, the caravan once again camped out the walls as some went in to buy supplies.  Paden went with Marie and Weillin in their carriage to another expensive looking inn.  Paden was once again surprised to find their party greeted by the proprietor.  He could not help but wonder if such things were common.

    It was still noon when they arrived so Paden went out with his aunt to do a bit of shopping.  Woodhaven was a larger city than Avery.  This meant for more varieties of items being sold in the shopping district of the city.  Marie brought him to another store to buy clothes.  She bought a dozen pairs of clothes for him.  To her, the amount was relatively small.  When they arrived home she would have more clothes tailor made for him and fill his wardrobe with clothes.  Her nephew had become her personal doll somewhere along the way.

    After an exhausting three hours of shopping and visiting various stores, Marie led him to a store that made Paden gawk.  The front had a sheet of glass bigger than their carriage showing the various wares.  He almost couldn¡¯t believe the ridiculous size of it that he failed to notice the shop catered to magicians.  Marie looked slightly amused at his expression and led her nephew inside.

    ¡°Good afternoon.  What can I do for young master and mistress?¡± asked a skinny salesclerk when they walked in with their guard.

    Marie carefully scanned around the shop.  Her eyebrows furrowed in disappointment.  Most of the items were of low quality bordering on being shameful to even presume to sell to magicians.  However, they were not looking for magical equipment.  She looked at a glass display case and spotted the items she needed to instruct her nephew.

    ¡°I will take the bone ring next to the golden circlet.  I will also be requiring a testing crystal, restrictive earing, and a meditative bracelet of at least medium level,¡± spoke Marie indifferently as the salesclerk¡¯s eyes glowed.

    The salesclerk gave an order to his assistant.  Five minutes later he came back and gave the clerk the items.

    ¡°Here are the items.  That will be thirteen hundred gold coins,¡± he told Marie with a grin.

    Marie took a single glance at the items and rested her eyes on the meditative bracelet.  Her brows furrowed in displeasure as she looked at the salesclerk.  He noticed her look and was sweating while cursing inwardly.  Did she notice?

    ¡°What is this?¡± Marie spoke as she casually lifted the bracelet with her finger up to the clerk¡¯s face.  ¡°How is this medium quality?  This isn¡¯t even a lower quality item.  How does your store get by selling such garbage?¡± Marie asked with disdain.

    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    The shopkeeper¡¯s face twisted into an ugly look.  Garbage?!  He had never been so insulted.  Even if she was a mage he could not allow her to talk about his shop that way, even if he knew her words to be true.  He slowly reached to his waist but was stopped abruptly by the actions of Marie.

    Marie had noticed his subtle movements.  In an instant, a cloud of dark smoke circled his throat pressing down.  The shopkeeper felt a cold sweat drip down his spine.  The smoke was a basic darkness spell was no more threatening than fog.  However, in her hands it had gained substance that he never imagined possible.  He rethought his actions and decided to employ dialogue.

    ¡°Miss, I cannot allow you to defame my establishment with your lies.  How is the circlet in anyway garbage?¡± he asked smoothly.  He signaled for his attendant to get the guard he paid off.  He imagined the helpless look on her face with an inward grin.

    ¡°How?  For one, the bracelet is made of cheat silver plated zinc rather than pure silver,¡± she told him with a toothy grin.  ¡°Next is the inscription pattern.  Rather than penetrating through the bracelet fully, the inscription is merely placed on the surface.¡±  By now the shopkeeper had regretted trying to take advantage of her but he was reluctant to submit.  ¡°Lastly, how could something middle tier possess such trashy inscriptions with serve no purpose?¡±

    The shopkeeper looked at the arrogant sneer on Marie¡¯s face in horror.  He had truly misjudged the woman.  She could tell at a glance all those things with a casual glance.  However, the guards would come and then he would show her.  A night in jail with the guards and she would be screaming in pleasure, he darkly thought.

    Two guards walked in as the lead man looked at the shopkeeper with a knowing nudge.  The shopkeeper regularly sold useless magical items to unsuspecting mages.  Every now and then someone with knowledge would call him out on it.  For this he bribed the guards in order to muscle those people and teach them a lesson in order to keep his reputation intact.

    ¡°What seems to be the problem?¡± asked the guard as he eyed Marie up and down lecherously.

    ¡°Sir, this woman is trying to obstruct my business.  She is calling my valuable merchandise fake garbage.  I demand you arrest her,¡± cried the shopkeeper shamelessly.  Paden watched this feeling dumbfounded.

    ¡°You can tell that is trash.  Look for yourself,¡± Marie explained dismissively.

    The guard walked up and examined the bracelet in question.  He finished and turned to his partner.

    ¡°Yea, it¡¯s the real deal.  Seems the missy wanted to leverage ruining his reputation and get a deal,¡± said the guard.  ¡°Arrest her.¡±

    Paden was shocked.  He wondered what had happened.  How could the man call that real given what his aunt had explained?  The guard put his hands on Marie.  The guards motioned to unsheathe their swords but were stopped by her look.

    An ungodly cry resounded from the guard.  His arm was covered in a black substance.  It slowly dissipated revealing a blackened arm that crumbled like ash leaving behind a stump for an arm.

    ¡°You.  Attacking the town guard is a treasonous offense,¡± said the main guard.  However, he made no motion to arrest her.  He walked to his buddy and looked at his wound with fright.

    ¡°Offense?¡± Marie asked pompously.  ¡°What offense is there in correcting the behavior of mere dogs?  Do not think I am so foolish as to not understand the deal between you and this establishment,¡± she told him coldly with piercing glare.

    With a wave of her hand a spear of darkness penetrated into the injured guard killing him.  The shopkeeper and guard looked at her brazen actions in horror.  Never would they have suspected someone would murder a guard outright in broad daylight.  The guard looked at her in fear.  What is killing two guards versus one, thought the man?

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.  Despite your ignoble actions, you will be free to go,¡± she told him with a sneer.  His heart leapt and was instantly plunged into freezing water at her next statement.  ¡°Of course after my guards hold you down so I can cut the tendon to your wrist and break your arm,¡± Marie told him with an icy grin.

    Paden listened to his aunt, dumbfounded.  Her actions repeatedly left him speechless.  Every action turned his view of the world upside down.  Where was justice?  What was justice?  Isn¡¯t this merely the rule of strength?

    The guard tried to flee as two guards cut him off.  They held him down as Marie personally took out a jet black dirk from beneath her blouse.  Paden looked at her actions in awe.  She moved and cut his right wrist, severing his tendons and did something.  He screamed in agony as a burning smell reached Paden¡¯s nose.

    Marie had burned his wounds.  Only a higher tier healing spell would restore use of his hand.  She signaled the guard who then broke his right shoulder at its elbow.  The sound caused Paden to flinch.  He had never seen something so callous.  He burned the words to never make his aunt angry into his mind.

    The man hobbled away in pain as the guards let him out the store.  Marie then spoke to a guard who left.  She then turned her attentions to the shopkeeper who looked at her as though he were seeing a demon.  She slowly walked to the shopkeeper and stabbed her dirk into the table.  The shopkeeper looked at the bloodstained weapon and gulped.  He had chosen poorly when he decided to offend her.

 Chapter 10: Garden Fixture

    AN: Author Here.  Making some updates to previous chapters as I post some of the newer content.  Update date will be on title so feel free to reread if you wish.  Changes are not major to the story itself but more to improve upon the flow and how the story reads given some feedback I have received.  If you have any suggestions or wish to give thanks please feel free to post.

    ______________________________________________________________________________________________

    Paden looked at the toothy grin his aunt was giving the shopkeeper feeling his mask of composure under her actions cracking.  This was his aunt.  Barely into their second week and he had seen her kill three men and brutally cripple another.  He silently prayed to the gods in thanks that he was her nephew and not her enemy.

    ¡°So, where were we now?¡± queried Marie with a devious grin.  ¡°Ah, I remember.  You tried to trick me.  Then you tried to set your hired thugs on me.  So what should I do with you?¡± Marie asked ash she played with the dirk on the counter.

    The shopkeeper bent down and took out a bracelet and placed it next to the other items.  ¡°All yours.  No need to pay,¡± he told her hurriedly in a panic wanting to get as far from the mad woman as possible.

    ¡°Do you think I can be so easily placated?  Did you think I would so casually forget those guards from earlier?  Did you think I did not see the lecherous looks from those guards?¡± questioned Marie darkly as a faint dark aura emanated from the dirk.  The shopkeeper shook in horror.  ¡°Did you think I missed your own lecherous look?¡± Marie asked as she let her words hang in the air.

    ¡°P-please.  I¡¯ll do anything?¡± the shopkeeper pleaded as he retreated back some in fear.

    ¡°Please?  I wonder how many people pled as you sicked those dogs of your on them?¡± Marie asked as she brandished the dirk.  ¡°You can only blame yourself, you know?  You should have picked your targets properly.  Unfortunately for you I am a woman who does not leave wrongs unpunished,¡± Marie explained to him as the dirk vanished from her hands.

    The man was given no time to process her words as a thin red line appeared across his neck slowly.  Marie collected the items and walked away as the man¡¯s body dropped and his head rolled some feet away, spraying blood, painting the shelves behind him.

    Paden didn¡¯t flinch at his aunt¡¯s actions.  He had mentally prepared himself to see the man die as soon as she told the shopkeeper how he so royally fucked up.  The guards were paid?  That explained their questionable actions to Paden.  However, he foresaw this matter would not end here as his aunt had killed town guards.  The city lord wouldn¡¯t leave this matter alone would he?

    Marie signaled the guards and they walked out the store into a crowd that had gathered and saw the events unfold from outside.  Their guards didn¡¯t have to say anything as the crowds all parted and made way for their group.  Paden silently listened to the whispers of the crowd and felt their dissecting gazes on him.

    Marie was pouting as she was very unsatisfied.  They had one day and night in town and it had been ruined by that unscrupulous merchant.  She felt a headache as she foresaw the matters with the guard would probably invite reprisal.  Today was not a good day, she thought.

    ¡°Halt!¡± commanded a voice from behind them making Marie and Paden turn around.

    Paden looked and observed the voice who called out to their group and his heart sunk.  So little time had passed and the response from the guards was swift it seemed.  Fifteen men were gathered in a group, a single man in the lead.  His armor was slightly better than the common leather or rusty mail of the others.

    ¡°Who are you to stop us?¡± Marie asked with an arched eyebrow giving the man no face.

    The Captain looked at her with an unamused expression.  He was a direct subordinate to the city lord and possessed a high standing in the city because of it.  He heard the woman in front of him was a magician meaning she was likely a noble but highly doubted she outranked his lord.  He grew emboldened by his thoughts of their differing positions and decided to press on.

    ¡°My name is Reginald.  I am guard captain and you are under arrest for the murder of the magic artifact store owner, one of our guards and crippling the other,¡± he told her with an authoritative tone.

    Marie was unamused, thinking how the whole day was an utter waste.  She had her nephew all to herself finally but once again someone had come to ruin her fun and what enraged her was the cavalier attitude of the man.  Common filth such as he deemed to judge her?  Her guards would protect Paden, so she could slaughter the town guards without any regard, she thought.

    The Captain raised his hand, signaling his men and as they moved forward a white flash flew through the air.  The guard captain watched in horror as the heads of three guards closest to Marie fell from their bodies causing the surrounding spectators into panic.  The captain looked as two men accompanied by eight guards, stood of to their side without moving.

    Weillin had arrived and saw the guards trying to arrest his wife.  He was informed of what happened and was infuriated someone would try to touch her so casually so he didn¡¯t think twice about killing this lot.

    The Captain himself was growing anxious seeing Weillin came donned in his noble garb.  Aside from the expensive magic thread of his clothes, the captain looked intently at his rapier.  The blade itself was pure silver and suited to using light blade like Weillin had demonstrated.  However, what was more surprising was the wired hand guard which was made of pure mythril as that was not something a common noble would ever own.

    His men looked to him for orders as he hesitated, reevaluating the situation.  If the man and woman before him were high nobles like he thought, then this situation can end very badly for him.  At worst, the city lord could leave him out for the two to deal with him as they please.

    ¡°M-my Lord.  Is this woman with you, sir?¡± the Captain asked meekly.  His attitude had turned 180 degrees as he sought to somehow save his neck.  His party noticed his change in attitude and realized something amiss.  ¡°Sheath your swords,¡± he quietly instructed.

    Weillin looked at him.  ¡°This woman is my wife.  By what right have you come to take her?!¡± Weillin asked angrily.

    Paden shuddered as he felt there was a certain weight that Weillin¡¯s words seemed to carry.  His eyes had become piercing and very cold to look at showing Weillin was no less a dragon than his aunt, perhaps more so at this moment.  His wife was being disgraced before him and Paden would not be surprised if he killed all the men here.  Paden slightly sensed his common sense shifting as he slowly grew accustomed to the violence.

    The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    ¡°Sir, she killed a storeowner and one of my guards.  She also crippled the third son of the Town Lord,¡± replied the captain hastily, his posture no longer erect but more submissive.

    ¡°I already know about that.  The store owner foolishly tried to cheat my wife with trash made to look like magic items.  That nephew you spoke of was lucky not to be killed.  So is there anything else?¡± Weillin asked while walking over to Marie not caring for an answer.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, however law dictates¡­¡± stammered the Captain meekly.

    ¡°Law?!¡± Weillin questioned, cutting off the Captain.  ¡°What law was broken?  Since when has killing thieves and cheats against the law?  As for your guard, it was his fault for offending my wife.  Tell your lord he should be grateful neither he nor his son is dead for this offense,¡± Weillin warned him sternly, his hand on the pommel of his rapier.

    The Captain didn¡¯t know what to do.  He couldn¡¯t arrest the man, and he suspected he was far out of his league to even entertain the idea.  He could only hope he could explain to the Lord and hope he drops the matter.  He signaled his men and collected the bodies of his dead men and quickly left the scene.

    Weillin looked at their retreating figures and turned to his wife.  He couldn¡¯t believe this would happen a second time and almost suspected his nephew was cursed somehow.  How was it that they kept finding themselves in such situations?  Most people could go their lives without suffering such troubles and they managed to find it a few hours walking about the city.

    ¡°This is not over,¡± Marie informed her husband with a pout as she planned out an appropriate punishment.

    Weillin chuckled as Paden listened in confusion.  Weillin knew what his wife meant.  Although, the town lord was given governorship over the city by the King, he was but a low level baron and not someone they could not kill given his offense.  There would be a lot of placating involved afterword but the king would not take action.  He couldn¡¯t take action.

    Weillin¡¯s family was of the old high nobility.  These were families of the ancient lineage of the kingdom.  Their roots were deep and not even the royal family could uproot them.  Three kings have tried to wrest power from them and force them out of their territory.  These actions led to disastrous results for the royal family.  Long story short, Weillin¡¯s family was still there.

    ¡°Shall we go now and get this over with?¡± Weillin asked his firecracker of a wife with a smile.

    Marie furrowed her brows.  ¡°First let¡¯s put the items in our room.  We can go after dinner.¡±

    ¡°He was instated by the king.  Is it worth it to kill him?¡± he asked knowing it was in vain.

    ¡°I don¡¯t intend to kill the town Lord.¡±  Weillin sighed in relief at her answer.  ¡°I will finish off his prick of a son though.  He was in league with the shopkeeper and harbored ill intent for me,¡± Marie told him with a huff, her cheeks rosy.  Quietly, she was picking out a spot for him in her garden.

    Weillin sighed helplessly.  It is going to be a long night, he thought.

    They returned and dropped their things off before dragging a reluctant Paden with them.  Randolph accompanied them with ten guards as they left for the City Lord¡¯s Mansion.  Paden was unenthused about his situation as he would have rather sat back in his room.  It wasn¡¯t like he didn¡¯t know what was going to happen.

    Their group approached the mansion as the guards tried to stop them but Weillin showed them his ring and they stood aside.  Paden looked at this confused, wondering what the ring signified.

    They were let into a large foyer where a plump man stormed in to meet their group.  The third son lagged behind his father as his elder brother¡¯s looked at the situation indifferently.  They were not too fond of their father¡¯s doting on their little brother and were even less enthused about their little brother¡¯s part time activities.

    ¡°You!¡± said the Lord while pointing at Marie.  ¡°You will pay for injuring my son!¡±

    Weillin furrowed his brows.  He signaled Randolph who moved swiftly and restrained the Lord.

    ¡°You cannot do this to me!  I was instated by the king!¡± the Lord cried loudly as his face was planted into the floor.  However, his ranting stopped when Randolph whispered some words into his ear.  The man¡¯s face drained of color as his body trembled.  ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry.  I mean no offense.  However¡­¡±

    ¡°However, what?¡± asked Marie coldly, cutting him off.  ¡°It is his fault.  He abused his station and supported that charlatan of a dealer.  What happens next is of his doing.  Interfere and die,¡± she warned him sternly as she sauntered forward.

    The third son watched their exchange with horror as his father helplessly submitted before the two.  The woman had threatened him but it seemed his father was going to do nothing.  A shiver went down his spine in realization that this was not going as he had expected.  However, it was far too late for him to run.

    Marie launched a javelin of darkness which impaled the young man in the chest.  It slowly melted into a liquid and encased the young man.  This spell was a favorite of Marie¡¯s as it would not leave a hollow husk that disappeared with the slightest of breezes.  No, the young man would forever be an eternal statue of pitch black.  Like a granite statue, he would forever decorate her gardens, a stern warning for her enemies.

    Paden watched in silence.  The expected crumpling into ash never came.  Instead, the man turned into what he could only think of as a statue as he watched Marie walk up to it and wave her hand casually as it disappeared into thin air.  Randolph let the Lord go as he recoiled on the ground helplessly as his sons comforted him.

    Weillin and Marie took their part and left, not speaking a word of farewell to the Lord.  They returned in silence the whole way as Paden walked, lost in thought.  He went to bed with a lot on his mind that night.  Even a man who was instated by the king as city lord was not put before his aunt and uncle¡¯s eyes.  So this is power, he quietly thought as he fell into slumber?

 Chapter 11: First Meditation

    It seemed the city lord had decided not to seek vengeance against Marie so Paden and their group left the city with no fuss.  They had been on the road for three hours as Marie continued his lessons inside their carriage and was now instructing him on the items she purchased from the shop.

    ¡°This is a testing crystal,¡± Marie told Paden as she held up a long slightly narrow clear crystal the length of his palm.  ¡°The purpose for these crystals is to determine your elemental affinities.  Darkness is obviously your strongest element.  However, most mages have affinities for all elements to varying degrees.  So long as you have average affinity to an element, you will be able to cast their lower tier spells, albeit with some difficulty.¡±

    ¡°If your affinity is lower than average?¡± Paden questioned as he thought about what other affinity he hoped he had.

    ¡°Then don¡¯t bother.  The time and resources needed to cast even a single lower tier spell makes bothering with that element moot.  Now grab the crystal and channel your magic into it,¡± Marie directed him as she tossed the crystal over to Paden.

    Paden grabbed the crystal and felt the familiar spring of warmth in his chest as he channeled his power.  However, he didn¡¯t know what he was supposed to do.  He thought and decided to move that warm feeling through his right arm and into his hand where he was holding the crystal.

    Like a click, it all came together, the warmth in his chest became a single stream that extended from his chest to his hand.  It seemed to pool so he directed it into the crystal as it began to take shape.  What he saw was close to the sight of the night sky he gazed upon when he slept outside at night during his past hunts.

    The crystal took the color of darkness throughout but noticed other colors.  It made him think of the large white lights of the stars that dotted the black curtain of darkness.  Peering within he noticed medium sized blue balls that circled inside the crystal.

    Marie took a look at his crystal and smiled but quickly frowned.  ¡°Excellent affinities for Darkness and Light?  Odd.  Those elements usually do not exist with one another.  High affinity for water.  Good.  Lot safer to practice with that element when learning to control one¡¯s magic,¡± Marie informed him while she was inwardly going wild.

    ¡°Eh.  Light too?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°Yea.  Weird.  More like, impossible,¡± Marie muttered under her breath.

    ¡°Why?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°I have seen people with light and dark affinities before.  Even our family has records of such people in our family and from other old families.  People with light and dark aspects always die.  Their magic builds up and the pressure squeezes blood from every pore and orifice of their body.  Not a pleasant sight,¡± Marie recalled grimly.

    Paden shuddered.  Did this mean he was going to die?

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Marie told him sensing his fear.  ¡°If you were going to die, you would have long ago.  Mages with light and dark affinities always die the first time they cast magic.  You have been using magic for weeks now with nothing happening.  Congratulations Paden, you are now the first dual light dark element mage,¡± Marie told him with a toothy grin completely passing the subject of him unknowingly almost perishing.

    ¡°Does that mean I get to learn from Uncle Weillin as well?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°Yes, we should tell Weillin when we make camp for tonight.  Also, keep the matter of having light element affinity secret for now.  Don¡¯t tell anyone, not even Axel or his family,¡± Marie warned him gravely.

    Paden nodded his head as even he could see such knowledge becoming disastrous for him.  Best case, he is held in high regard and seen as a promising talent by the kingdom.  Worst case scenario, Paden is outright murdered to make sure he doesn¡¯t grow up to be like his father.  Marie nodded happily seeing her nephew understood.

    ¡°This is a spell ring,¡± Marie showed him the bone ring she ¡®retrieved¡¯ from the shop.  ¡°This ring is a lower tier ring but good for beginning mages like you to learn the intricacies of controlling such items.¡±

    Marie handed Paden the ring and he got a good look.  The ring itself was made from a bone of something he didn¡¯t recognize.  He looked and saw engravings in the ring and wondered if that contributed to the particular spell it could manifest.  Even though it was his first time seeing such an engraving he felt inexplicably drawn to it as though it were calling out to him.

    ¡°The ring is engraved with a lower tier Dark Arrow spell.  Compared to most dark spells of that level, Dark Arrow possesses substance to it.  It is classified as lower tier but lethal nonetheless.  We will practice later.  Do not use it outside our lessons unless it is an emergency.¡± ¨C Marie.

    Paden put on the bone ring on his right middle finger.  He felt a cold sensation as if the ring were made from steel that was left out in the cold.  The strange feeling seemed familiar and almost comforting as though it was winter and he was snuggled up against a fire wrapped by a large blanket.

    ¡°This is a meditative bracelet.  It¡¯s medium tier so somewhat adequate.  We have better at home so this will suffice for now,¡± Marie explained casually as she handed Paden the bracelet.

    Paden took it and examined the bracelet closely seeing it was made of silver.  However, he couldn¡¯t determine the purity as his aunt had in the shop.  How did she do it?  He looked on the outside and inside seeing there were inscriptions but there were obvious differences between what showed outside and inside.  How can she look at this complicated set of inscriptions and determine its function?

    ¡°The meditative bracelet is invaluable to mages.  Meditation is required to further our own power and, more importantly, our connection with our element.  As we train in the grand elements, this connection becomes all the more paramount.¡± ¨C Marie.

    ¡°Grand elements?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°We define elements by order of ordinary, grand, and divine elements.  Water, wind, earth and fire are all lower elements.  Light and darkness are attributed to high elements.  Classifications vary depending on the system a kingdom trains its mages in.  Mages of various kingdoms have been trying to standardize the classifications but each of our understandings differ leading to conflicts,¡± Marie informed Paden while sighing.

    Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°Well such matters are beyond one as young as yourself for now,¡± Marie continued to explain.  ¡°All you need to know is that item will aid in your training.  Keep it on you at all times.  Even when you sleep, do not remove it.¡±

    Paden nodded as he understood her explanation unhooking the clasp to put it on his wrist.  As soon as he closed the clasp, he was struck with a strange feeling of euphoria.  It was as if he was walking in mist and the gods suddenly decided to make everything as clear as day.  The feeling was intoxicating, addicting, making him feel relatively giddy.

    Marie watched the expression of her nephew change rapidly understanding what he was feeling at that moment.  It was the same of any mage who received a meditative tool for the first time.  She herself felt uplifted when she received one as a gift from her older brother.  It is something that is inadequate to aid her now but she still carried it on her.

    Marie sat back and drew out a flask of alcohol to drink in her memories as she quietly observed her nephew.  It would be some time before Paden snapped out of the initial effects of the bracelet.  Even so he would be a little open to suggestion for a short time afterward.  She would have some fun with him, she thought with an impish smile.

    Five hours on the road had passed before they made camp for the night.  Paden had just broken from his initial experience with the meditative trance under Marie¡¯s instigation.  She sheepishly looked at her nephew, giddy as could be.

    She led a submissive Paden out the cart by hand as Weillin saw the look on Paden¡¯s face and realized what was happening.  He gave a helpless look to Marie who returned a wide grin.  He chuckled as he gave a nudge to Randolph and pointed out Paden.  Randolph took one glance at Paden¡¯s euphoric look and gave a knowing smile.

    Marie sat around a camp with Jacob fire as Leanna and the girls arrived.  They began preparing dinner.  They didn¡¯t even recognize the odd state of Paden until some time had passed by.  However, the twins ran over to Paden and began requesting things of Paden.  Because of the state he was in, he allowed everything from pats on the head to letting them sit on his lap.

    Marie looked at this and laughed to her hearts content as Leanna had finished with dinner, letting it stew so she had time.  She walked up to Marie who was giggling as she looked at Paden and asked what was so funny.  Marie told her everything causing Leanna to grin merrily.

    ¡°Paden, come over here and place your head on my lap,¡± request Leanna as she patted her lap for him to come.

    Padden walked over calmly and did as she asked as Leanna smiled brightly.  She had always done this when he was younger but he became rebellious as he got older.  She ran her fingers though his hair as the girls saw this and gave each other confused looks.  Marie filled them in causing Mary and Bea looked at each other with a mischievous glint in their eyes.  Leanna got up and went to check on dinner as Mary and Bea rushed Paden from both sides.

    ¡°Paden what do you think of me and Bea?¡± ¨C Mary.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Paden asked innocently not thinking of their intentions.  Marie and Leanna were off to the sides, laughing at his remark.

    ¡°What I mean is, do you think we are cute?¡± Mary asked as she looked into his eyes a look returned by Paden.

    Normal Paden would have become flustered by this time.  Normal Paden would have steered the conversation a different way.  He would have understood the deeper meaning of her words and chosen his words carefully.  However, what came out was¡­

    ¡°You two are very cute.  Whatever, man marries you two in the future will be very blessed,¡± Paden told them with an innocent smile causing the two to blush.

    His calm demeanor, innocent words and those fair looks made Paden appear very handsome.  The hearts of Mary and Bea were moved as they hugged him slightly surprising and puzzling him.  Even Leanna and Marie were slightly moved by his demeanor.

    Axel had just come around with Weillin and Randolph having been told about Paden¡¯s state and he was highly amused.  He looked at his daughters fawning over Paden who didn¡¯t shy away like usual and bellowed in laughter.  He almost couldn¡¯t believe the two were the same boy as he looked at him.

    Axel sat down across from Paden and looked at the boy with a grin.  According to Weillin¡¯s story Paden will snap out of it soon enough.  Best part, the boy would remember every embarrassing moment too.  This is too good, Axel thought while chuckling to himself as he sat down next to his wife to watch the whole thing go down.

    Paden sat with both girls cooing in delight by his side.  They knew it was induced by his state but the words were from his heart nonetheless.  Carol and Cheryl saw their sisters and threw a tantrum for a moment before Paden silenced them.  A few kind words of rebuke followed by patting their tiny heads and they fell as easily as their elder sisters as they sat on his lap.

    The adults all watched this with amused expressions as some of the other groups caught on to something happening with Axel¡¯s group.  Eber and Gerard came over and saw the scene of Paden calmly being mushed between his sisters knowing instantly that something was up.  Axel called them over and Weillin told them what was going on sending the two roaring in laughter.  This was the best form of amusement they had while travelling.

    Some other people joined in and learned what was going on.  When Leanna finished dinner, Eber suggested the girls take turns feeding Paden.  The poor boy sat submissively as the girls fed him.  Mary and Bea mischievously used the same spoon to feed themselves.  The adults noticed their subtle moves as stealing indirect kisses from Paden amusing the whole crowd.

    Just as they finished their meal, Paden started coming around.  ¡°Huh?¡± Paden spoke aloud.  Paden was distracted and wondered why the twins were on his lap and the two flanking his sides.  Then he remembered it all.

    Paden flushed red as he recalled every embarrassing moment and looked at the crowd that had gathered.  A lot of mothers and other women were disappointed as looking at the boy gave them great amusement.  Paden wordlessly got up and scurried to his tent to hide, the laughter of the adults following him as he made his retreat.  So embarrassing, thought Paden as he hid from sight.

 Chapter 12: Parting and New Home

    AN: Author here once again.  How are you liking the story so far?  What do you dislike?  What do you hope to see more of?

    Saw something odd when looking at views.  Saw something like thousands of views on particular chapters when others are barely in the hundreds which confuses me.  Is this some kind of error?  If anyone knows please feel free to reply.  Although I hope that many people enjoy reading the story, I understand my writing isn''t that far, yet.

    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

    Two weeks had passed since the Paden¡¯s embarrassing show for the whole caravan and word had gotten around the following morning.  A lot of the older women called Paden over for lap pillows while they caressed his hair and despite his embarrassment he submitted.  This earned him some looks from their daughters who started taking an interest in him which was odd.  Paden knew most of them and had seen them around but they were never that close.

    Something about his display with Axel¡¯s girls seemed to have set something off in them and many visited the camp area of Paden and Axel¡¯s families.  A lot of the single friends Paden hung out with had noticed this and doubled their efforts to impress the women.  Some had even managed to pair off.  A weird rumor spread that if you gave Paden a lap pillow and pat his head, you will find your destined spouse and so some of Paden¡¯s male friends had requested this of him.

    Paden almost exploded in embarrassment when he heard the rumor.  Axel and Weillin laughed their asses off and even the normally taciturn Randolph gave a restrained chuckle.  However, it was all in light fun.  The journey had been relatively uneventful and they arrived at the small village before the city of Zouvier where Weillin¡¯s family lived.

    Quick farewells were made to those who would live outside the city in the developing village.  Paden said his farewells to some of his friends and promised to see each other in the city tavern or visit the village in the future as he gave one last look at Lily.  It seemed she and his friend, Mike, was an item now and they would marry when her family returned after selling off their property in Avery.

    It was a three hour ride to the city gates.  Paden¡¯s group bypassed the line formed to enter the city.  This is an abuse of power, Paden screamed inwardly.

    After entering, the remaining six families split off.  Paden along with families of Axel, Eber and Gerard would head for the City Lord¡¯s mansion as the other three had families in town they had sent word ahead to.  If there were any problems they could seek help from Weillin.

    Paden looked at the massive city in wonder.  The buildings were towering, over three and sometimes four floors.  The streets were six carriages wide and had separated walkways.  Paden looked outside and took in the sights and sounds as Weillin¡¯s group travelled unhindered through the center of the street.

    They passed three walled off areas.  One, Marie told him, was set for markets.  The second had been set for high end shops and stalls.  The third was a residential are for the rich and affluent of the city which was by far, the cleanest and heavily patrolled.  Compared to the other areas where he only saw two groups of guards while passing through, this area alone, Paden saw six groups.

    They arrived an hour or two past noon.  Paden was separated from Axel, Eber and Gerard¡¯s families as he looked to his aunt for an explanation.  However, thinking it through, he understood and smiled bitterly at himself.  Of course those three would live separately from him.  The thought made him slightly lonely as he was accustomed to that cramp home.

    ¡°It¡¯s only a minute¡¯s walk away,¡± Marie told him as she sensed his mood placing a hand over his in reassurance.

    Their carriage arrived at the front of a large mansion made of meticulously even cut stone.  Everything Paden saw as he stepped out could be expressed in one word.  Immaculate.  He had never seen a home so awe inspiring.  Fit for a king, he thought with a chuckle.

    Weillin and Randolph were already waiting at the entrance where servants were lined up to receive them.  The sight intimidated Paden and reminded him of his aunt and uncle¡¯s station in life.  Paden began to wonder if it was alright for him to even be here.  No matter what his aunt said, he could not see himself as being worthy of such treatment, family or not.

    Marie coughed and hooked her arm in Paden¡¯s as she led him forward.  Paden inhaled deeply when he walked into the foyer as it was stories taller than Woodhaven¡¯s city lord manor.  Immaculate white stone and brass fixtures decorated the room.  A daunting staircase and crystal chandelier became its focal points.

    As Paden was observing the foyer, two people walked over to their group.  The man had salt and pepper hair.  His piercing blue eyes seemed familiar to Paden.  He had a trimmed goatee and compared to the charming Weillin, the man before him looked stern.  His build was broader than Weillin¡¯s athletic build and Paden was surprised given his age.  A white ring with a blue jewel donned his right finger and stood out amongst his black clothing.

    The woman was gorgeous.  His aunt was something but the woman before her was something else.  She oozed sexiness and Paden felt his heart beating erratically in his chest.  Long brown hair, soft features and a lithe body stimulated something primal in Paden.  It was the first time he felt such lust for another person.

    ¡°Father, Mother, let me introduce you to Marie¡¯s nephew, Paden,¡± Weillin greeted the two with a charming smile.

    Mother?!  Paden locked up.  All eyes fell on Paden who was trying to digest the bombshell Weillin dropped as he looked at Weillin with a stupid expression.  His head shook and his face changed expressions repeatedly.  It all looked odd to the surrounding onlookers and Marie was concerned for her nephew.

    ¡°Paden, honey, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Marie asked snapping Paden out of it.

    ¡°She¡¯s your mom?!¡± Paden asked in an exaggerated shout.

    Everyone began to understand that the boy had been shocked by Weillin¡¯s introduction.  Most people were shocked when learning the woman was married and already a mother but most did not give such reactions.  It was silly and improper for anyone of nobility to act such a way but oddly refreshing as well.  Everyone gathered there laughed at his reaction and expression.

    ¡°It looks¡­pft¡­like Paden had been exhausted by the journey, pft.  We should continue the introductions after he has had time to pft¡­ I-I can¡¯t.  Hahahaha,¡± Weillin hunched over as he roared in laughter.  The youth¡¯s actions could be construed as rood but they strangely felt refreshing and funny instead.

    If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    Paden looked at Weillin displeased.  His eyes met Weillin¡¯s and he puffed his cheeks in displeasure but this only made Weillin laugh harder.  Even his mother laughed at the boy.

    ¡°Paden, go and rest in your room.¡±  Marie signaled two maids and they came over.  ¡°These two will lead you to your room.  If you need anything these two will get it for you.¡±

    ¡°What about my things?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°They should be in your room already.  Now that I remember, most of those things were inferior quality.  We will take you into the city later.  I think eight or nine hours should be good.  Yes, that amount of time, it should only take use six days to select your full wardrobe,¡± Marie spoke with an ecstatic expression on her face.

    Paden¡¯s heart sunk.  He wasn¡¯t a whiz with math but even he could tell that amount of time added up to something horrifying and so he looked to Weillin for help.  Weillin of course noticed his look for help.  However, Weillin turned his head and looked away leaving Paden to hang.  Weillin couldn¡¯t help the poor boy.  If he said anything Marie would probably drag him along.  Their first month of marriage she had done the same thing to Weillin.  He was not looking for a Nightmare Week Part II.

    This was all missed by Marie who watched her nephew somberly march while being led by the maids to his room.  Marie and Weillin spoke to their parents.  They needed to inform them of Paden having dual affinities to light and darkness as they couldn¡¯t send advance notice because of the security risk inherent in long distance communication.

    Paden was led forward by the two maids.  Both were considerably young and attractive.  Paden leered at their asses as they walked in front of him which was not missed by the maids who giggled at his unrestrained gaze.  Compared to other nobles who had no qualms with taking maids in their service the boy seemed rather gentlemanly.  He was somewhat cute, they thought together.

    If they could hear the thoughts in Paden¡¯s head then those thoughts would probably change.  Paden was young, na?ve, unexperienced, shy but more importantly, fifteen years old.  Paden was very horny.  It seemed the sight of their asses caused his little soldier to stand at attention.  Something luckily missed by them but not him.  He was very awkward at that moment.

    They led him to his room and offered to show him around.  Blushing, Paden refused them and tried to get them to leave sooner.  He sighed in relief as they finally left.  However, his situation was completely seen by the two who understood why the youth had been so adamant that they leave.  They walked out and laughed as soon as they closed the doors.  He was too adorable.

    Paden looked around his ¡®room¡¯.  It was bigger than the room Marie and Weillin stayed in at Avery as two of Axel¡¯s homes could fit inside.  The room was divided into four sections.  The entrance led into a massive sitting room.  Next was the massive master bedroom.  Attached to the bedroom was a large walk in closet and a bath.  The bath drew water somehow and there was a sit in toilet.

    Paden was flabbergasted.  He had heard of toilets in houses but that was exclusive to nobility and not as complex as what was in his room.  There was even a smaller sink to wash his hands.  He had never seen such luxuries before.  He burst out laughing thinking all of this was his.  He walked over to his bed and laid himself down.  Even the bed was outstanding.  He was completely drawn in by his room thinking he would never wish to leave.

    Paden laid on his bed as people came in with his things.  His bows, quivers and knives were moved to an area close to his bed out of habit.  His clothes were all unpacked and put in the large closet.  A lot of the furs he processed were also put in an area of his closet.  I still need to sell these and earn some coin, he thought.  He had completely forgotten as everything on the trip was paid by Marie and Weillin.

    After his things were put away, Paden walked over to his bed and lied down.  Sleep came quick as he was slightly exhausted and he dreamt a pleasant dream of him and the two cute maids who led him to his room.  Time slowly passed as two observed their new master with curious gazes.

    Paden awoke to some giggles and got up groggily as he scanned the room for the source of the sound.  Whoever it was caused him to recall the intricate details of his dream making him very unhappy at the moment.  His unhappy gaze was met by the two subjects of his dream.  As he recalled their giggles, he wondered what it was that made them so.  However, his question was answered by the snug pull of his pants against his little soldier.  Realizing his battle buddy was at attention and in full view of the two he immediately turned scarlet around the ears.

    ¡°Master and Mistress have instructed us to inform you that dinner will be in thirty minutes.  Please, get ready,¡± informed the older maid in her late teens.

    ¡°Okay,¡± Paden replied as he got up trying to ignore their inquisitive gazes.

    He walked over to the bathroom and found water already drawn.  However, he was not alone.  He sensed the two maids follow him from behind and looked at them questioningly.

    ¡°Uhm, why have you followed me?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°It is our duty to serve young master,¡± chirped the younger maid happily.  Paden almost accepted on the spot, almost.

    "I can¡¯t really take a bath with you two in here,¡± Paden told them shyly as he waited for them to leave.

    The two pouted as Paden sent them away.  They were slightly interested in the body of this young master and were hoping to get an eyeful but were disappointed when they were sent away.

    Paden heaved a long sigh.  Young maids like that were not good on his heart.  Maybe he could get his aunt to change them for older unattractive women.  It would be less stimulating, that¡¯s for sure.

    AN:  How was it.  Felt a little off about how I have treated the whole issue with Paden''s first crush.  Should I have added more to it?  How do you feel about Lily?  Should she appear later down the road for closure or growth of some kind?

 Chapter 13: Seal

    Paden was dressed, reluctantly, by the two maids.  They had already selected clothes from what Marie had bought him during their stay in Woodhaven.  After he changed, the two led him down to the first floor to a small dining room.  He was the last to arrive as the adults were already sitting around a round table awaiting him.  A single seat was open for him so he moved to sit down between Marie and Weillin¡¯s mother.  He still couldn¡¯t believe she was his mother, she looked so young.

    ¡°Paden, was your room to your liking?¡± Weillin asked his face wearing a wide grin.

    ¡°The bed was great.  Better than the inn in Avery,¡± Paden exclaimed innocently.

    ¡°He asks you about the room and you rave about the bed.  To be young,¡± Marie quipped.

    Paden turned scarlet.  His meaning wasn¡¯t what she thought.  However, he felt trying to explain himself, would only succeed in making the grave he¡¯s dug only deeper and instead opted for silence.

    ¡°Paden, this is my father Duke Selmitt and mother, Duchess Selmitt,¡± Weillin introduced while seated.

    "It is a pleasure to meet you.  Your aunt has been anxiously waiting to bring you home for some time now,¡± Duchess Selmitt said with a smile.

    Paden looked at the intimidating Duke Selmitt as the man said nothing and observed Paden coldly.  Paden was scared and wondered if he did anything to offend Duke Selmitt.  Duchess Selmitt saw her husband and lightly slapped him with the back of her left hand.  He snapped out of it and looked at his wife as he smiled wryly as he didn¡¯t mean to frighten the boy.

    ¡°Sorry, I was deep in thought.  You can drop the formal titles.  You are family in this house.  Just call me and wife as Grandpa Richard and Gr¡­.whack,¡± Duchess Selmitt hit her husband again before he finished as she looked at him in displeasure.  ¡°Aunt¡­Aunt Lilith,¡± Richard told him while confirming with his wife.

    Paden nodded.  He was still feeling slightly intimidated.  He still couldn¡¯t believe he was kin to the Dark Knight much less the people in this room.  He had noble blood but didn¡¯t feel as such.  He still didn¡¯t know who his mother was or why they left him with his mother, Luanne for all those years.

    There was an awkward atmosphere.  The boy didn¡¯t speak and the adults didn¡¯t know how to make him any less comfortable.  They could only wait for him to relax in their presence on his own.  Weillin had explained about Paden using his magic against the goblin with no training.  Lilith and Richard were impressed.  Most mages couldn¡¯t manifest their element without instruction.

    They were also curious about his affinity to light but held off discussing it.  Even if it was their house there were several spies they kept around to feed false information to.  An important matter such as this needed to be discussed in private.  They dismissed his water affinity as it was one of the ordinary elements.  It could be used to heal and harm but not to the level of the others without proper direction.

    Diner finished, Weillin led their group to the second floor where they entered a large study.  There was a large desk with plenty of neatly stacked papers and various writing utensils bundled in a wooden container.  Paden observed the neat walls covered in various art works and several wooden bookcases as Weillin waved off the servants and had them close the doors.

    Lilith waved her hands and a gentle breeze blew through the room.  She nodded at Weillin.  ¡°It¡¯s done,¡± she informed him primly as Paden looked at their actions in questioning.

    ¡°The doors have been closed and Mother cast a wind spell.  This was done so no one can hear our conversation.  That of course means that what is spoken should not be told outside or such preparations would mean nothing,¡± Weillin informed him.  Paden nodded in understanding.

    ¡°Is it true?¡± Richard asked.  He was still skeptical.

    His family had records of dual affinities for light and dark.  He also read about what happens to such people.  Upon activating their magic they would always die.  It didn¡¯t matter if the magic was light or dark.  Whatever element they used would always result in death.  At least that was the case until Paden.

    Marie took out the testing crystal and handed it to Paden.  He took it and understood what they wanted.  He channeled his magic into the crystal.  It turned the familiar night sky with blue orbs as it had done before.  There was an intake of breath from Weillin and his family.  Weillin listened to his wife but he too was skeptical.  However, Weillin could not deny the truth in front of his eyes.

    ¡°Can he use light magic?¡± Richard asked.

    ¡°We avoided teaching him anything to avoid any slips,¡± Marie informed.  ¡°He is very proficient with his dark magic.  Fastest I have ever seen.¡±

    ¡°Faster than even your brother?¡± Lilith asked, knowing full well how much Marie worshipped him.

    ¡°Faster than even brother.  Not even brother could maintain the meditative state for five hours on his first try.  He probably could have gone longer if I had not prematurely snapped him out of it,¡± Marie said with pride.

    Richard and Lilith were shocked.  Five hours was unheard of even amongst the geniuses of the other high noble houses.  The initial meditative state demonstrated an initiate mage¡¯s potential as a mage.  It was viewed that the longer one meditated the first time, the higher the mage¡¯s potential.  Three hours was standard.  Four hours was genius.  Five hours was monstrous.  Marie said he could go longer?  They were lost for words.

    ¡°Try to gather light in your hand like with the dark sphere,¡± Marie instructed.

    Paden nodded.  It was smooth sailing up until the energy gathered in his hand.  However when he tried to manifest a light sphere something went wrong.  Paden could feel it.  Something in him snapped and his body was wracked with indescribable pain.  He kneeled in agony as he coughed blood onto the rug.

    Marie and the others saw this and panicked.  This was a backlash.  However, backlash should be impossible for a standard light sphere.  Richard approached Paden as Weillin held Marie.  Paden¡¯s condition was precarious and he could not let her exacerbate it.

    Richard frowned as he felt the boy¡¯s energy flux with his fingers.  Something was inside his body.  A seal, he thought.  He channeled his light magic and began to treat Paden.  Paden slowly calmed down and drew shallow breaths before regaining his normal state.

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    The five walked over to a seating area off the study.  Marie and Lilith led Paden to a sofa where he lied on Marie¡¯s lap as she stroked his head.  She was worried about what went wrong.  He showed such promise with darkness.  Why did it go so wrong when he used light, she wondered?

    ¡°What happened?¡± croaked Paden weakly.

    ¡°It was backlash from a powerful seal cast on you,¡± Richard said calmly as he looked at the youth.  He had never observed such a powerful seal.  Worse, he didn¡¯t know why it was placed.  He had suspicions but no way to confirm it without risking the boy¡¯s life.

    ¡°Can it be removed?¡± Marie asked with concern as she looked down at Paden.

    ¡°It is not advisable.  I do not have confidence to remove it and asking for outside help risks the boy¡¯s safety,¡± Richard replied gravely as he scratched his chin. ¡°The good thing is that it appears to seals his ability to use light magic but not his dark.  I suspect he can use his water element.¡±

    ¡°How do we train him?¡± Weillin asked his father.  He was in unfamiliar grounds.  A seal complicated things.

    ¡°We can still hold the light and dark ceremonies.  There should be no problem with him sealing a contract with a light sprite despite his condition,¡± Richard informed Weillin.

    Weillin sighed in relief.  A second sprite would secure his nephews safety.  Should a day come when Paden releases his seal, it could help train him.  Even before then, the sprite will serve as his protector.

    ¡°What are sprites?¡± Paden inquired weakly.

    ¡°They are spiritual beings.  Our ancestors discovered and developed techniques upon discovering certain planes millennia ago.  We contract with sprites as it boosts the mage¡¯s own magical powers and aids in their cultivation.  However, there are¡­risks,¡± Weillin said seriously.

    ¡°What kinds?¡± ¨C Paden.

    ¡°Possession.  A summoner is at risk of possession when the contract is first made.  It is when they are at their most vulnerable.  It is rare for a light sprite to try and possess its host but dark sprites always fight against being subjugated,¡± Weillin explained.

    ¡°So when do we do the¡­uh¡­ceremony was it?¡± Paden asked unsure.

    ¡°We will prepare for the ceremony in a week¡¯s time.  It will give us enough time to go shopping for new clothes for you,¡± Marie said merrily.

    Paden spent some time listening to what would occur during the ceremonies.  It didn¡¯t sound like anything too complicated.  Despite what they said about the possibility of possession, such occurrences were relatively small in number.  So long as he was adequately prepped it should prove no problem.

    Paden excused himself.  He then went over and saw Axel and the family in the servant wing.  Their room was very large.  Weillin spared no expense to treat Axel and his family well.  Their room wasn¡¯t as large as Paden¡¯s but it was bigger than their home back in the village.

    ¡°Paden!¡± ¨C Carol.

    ¡°Paden!¡± ¨C Cheryl.

    Paden was rushed by the twins soon after his arrival.  He smiled lightly as they pulled him.

    ¡°We have our own room.¡± ¨C Carol.

    ¡°Come and see!¡± ¨C Cheryl.

    They led him into their room and showed him the bunk beds Weillin provided.  Their room was about double the size he had in their old home.  It seems Weillin had sent word ahead because there were several stuffed animals inside.  Paden chuckled as he thought about Marie dotting on the two like an aunt.

    Paden walked out onto a patio near the rear.  Axel was gathered with Eber and Gerard.  They were speaking with other people Paden assumed were also guards.

    ¡°Paden!¡± called Axel.

    ¡°Axel.¡±

    ¡°So how¡¯d you like your new home?¡± he asked with a grin.

    ¡°Too large,¡± Paden admitted.  He was used to the closeness of their old home.  He felt slightly lonely.

    ¡°It¡¯ll feel cramped when you get yourself a girl finally,¡± joked Eber.

    ¡°May not need a girl.  I hear his personal maids are Rachel and Meredith,¡± said a guard with a teasing tone.

    Paden just realized he never got their names.  He felt pretty bad it never occurred to him to ask for their names.  He was also embarrassed that it was already rumor that the two beauties were serving him.

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Eber asked with a smirk.

    Paden was taken aback.  Eber¡¯s smirk was somewhat devilish and scared him.  He didn¡¯t know what the man was thinking and didn¡¯t have a good feeling about it.

    Pft.  The men broke out in laughter.  Even the guards who Paden didn¡¯t know were laughing.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry Paden.  We all know you would never lay a hand on those maids.  So how is it with Weillin and Marie?¡± Axel asked, getting to the point.

    ¡°They are good people.  The incident in Axel and Woodhaven were scary but I understand why they needed to end that way,¡± Paden admitted solemnly.

    ¡°Still need to thank you Paden,¡± Axel said while looking him in the eyes.  ¡°You protected our girls from that toad.¡±

    ¡°I heard about that too.  Captain said you were pretty fast on your feet.  Bit na?ve in some regards though,¡± said the familiar guard.

    ¡°You should get some sleep.  You¡¯re gonna need your strength for tomorrow,¡± Axel told Paden with a slap on his shoulder.

    ¡°Leanna and the girls are going with you tomorrow to shop for your wardrobe.  They were planning things with Marie and Lilith.¡±

    Paden let out a pained moan.  All the men laughed at the young man understanding his pain.  Paden left Axel and kissed Leanna and the girls.  He wished he could sleep with them but he knew he couldn¡¯t do that anymore.  He understood this was to be one of many changes that will occur.

    AN:  Author here.  Made matters concerning the spiritual plane as vague as possible.  Will probably update this chapter in the future and if any changes are made to the lore surrounding this I will post a note in the chapter as well as update past chapters.  If you have any suggestions feel free to comment or if you see any holes.

    I will also not be posting Paden''s one week of shopping hell so don''t worry and sorry if you were looking forward to that chapter.

 Chapter 14: Light Plane

    A week had passed slowly for Paden.  The week long shopping spree of the women had tired him out mentally and physically.  He was itching to get back in the woods but his days of hunting had ended and the closest he got was practicing archery with the guards.

    Paden was gathered with Marie and the Selmitt family.  It was past noon and time for them to begin the light and dark sprite ceremonies.  Weillin and Duke Selmitt were in the center of the room inscribing diagrams and symbols with red chalk.  When they had finished, they gave it a thorough examination twice before they were satisfied.

    ¡°We will begin with the light sprite ceremony.  It is the easiest of the two and safest.  More importantly, the light sprite can aide you in the dark sprite ceremony,¡± Weillin informed Paden when they had finished.

    Weillin led Paden to the center of the circle and had him sit on the cold floor.  Paden would need to enter his meditative state before they could begin.  It took thirty minutes before Paden was ready so Weillin and Duke Selmitt then chanted a few words as the circle activated.

    The circle began to glow dark red and after some time it glowed a brilliant gold color.  Weillin and Duke Selmitt breathed a sigh of relief as they observed Paden from inside the center of the circle.  He had begun to connect to the other realm and felt himself leaving his body.

    Paden looked around as everything around of him was full of light.  The world was extremely clean, sterile.  At a glance, it gave Paden the feeling of warmth.  However, as he reigned in his thoughts he began to frown.  There was an unnerving feeling of unnaturalness to the world.  This was the plane of light, he thought?

    Paden walked.  His only path lay before and behind where he arrived.  He slowly walked the long white stone corridor.  The further he got the more immaculate and clean, the floors, walls, and ceilings became.  Time had ceased to be to Paden.  What existed was the long corridor he walked ever certainly forward as he could hear voices around him but see nothing.  He could feel the presence of something in front of him but out of eyesight.

    Paden finally arrived at the end of the corridor and stepped into a large marble hall surrounded by white pillars.  Inside was a single beautiful woman sitting upon a stone cold, marble throne wearing a simple white robe.  It did nothing to hide her ample assets and Paden had a hard time not staring.

    His gaze was noticed by the woman who smiled at him radiantly.  However, Paden had the odd feeling he was being looked down upon, almost as though she were mocking him.  The gaze irritated him.  However, these thoughts receded as the woman stood up and her white robes began to exude an aura of light.

    She was five and a half feet tall.  She had blonde hair and blue eye, with a fair complexion.  Her face held soft features that stimulated the desire to protect.  She was well proportioned and stunning all around.  Paden felt as though he were before a goddess and should be kneeling before her but didn¡¯t.

    The woman frowned.  She was inwardly displeased the mortal before her was so brazen as to look upon her so openly.  She wanted to kill the man child before her, but resisted the urge.  There was something inexplicably curious about him that made her wish to speak to him.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± asked the woman in a commanding tone.

    This tone irked Paden.  ¡°One usually introduces themselves before asking the name of another,¡± he fired back.

    Paden''s flippant answer enraged the woman.  She summoned a sword of light and brandished it at Paden as he did nothing.  He had heard that nothing could harm him in this realm.  At most, he would have to retry the ceremony.  The woman took his inaction as arrogance and sliced at him.

    She was utterly shocked to find the sword did nothing.  Paden just looked at her wondering what she was doing.  She looked at his questioning look and thought he was mocking her.  She continued to slash at him to no effect feeling utterly baffled.  A normal human would have died in this realm.  What in the Holy Mother¡¯s name is he, she wondered?

    ¡°Who are you?¡± asked the woman in a commanding tone.

    Paden could sense an underlying feeling of uncertainty from the woman.  Like a small puppy trying to act like an adult.  That was the kind of feeling she gave him.  Soon as such thoughts passed his mind, a small smile creeped up and a light chuckle escaped his mouth echoing in the chamber.

    His reactions surprised the woman and angered her.  ¡°What are you laughing at?¡± she asked with red cheeks.  All Paden saw was a beautiful young woman who was puffing her cheeks out in irritation.  The commanding aura of authority she exuded was gone.  It made her look somewhat cute.  Once again he chuckled at the woman.

    The woman had never been so angry before.  She was a sprite of high authority in this realm.  Humans would beg to get a glimpse of her much less for a contract with her.  However, here was a human youth that did not show such respect.  He somehow evaded her strikes in a way she could not understand.  This frustrated her.

    ¡°Tell me who you are and I may accept a contract with you,¡± she told him in a higher than thou tone.

    Paden scoffed outwardly as he wondered what she was on about.  ¡°Why would I wish to establish a contract with you?  What¡¯s in it for me?¡±

    Paden had one chance.  He could sense her authority and power but her attitude left much to be desired.  It almost reminded him of his experiences in Avery and Woodhaven.  Not only was her attitude poor, she had even tried to hurt him.  He didn¡¯t know why she couldn¡¯t but he could use this to get some information from her.

    ¡°Listen to me foolish one.  I am the exalted Lady of White Light.  I have far reaching authority and power.  No Light Sprite can measure up to me.  You would best be humble in my presence,¡± she told him loftily as she threw a look of superiority to him.

    Paden furrowed his eyebrows.  He was getting nowhere with her.  He turned and looked at the exit or entrance to the temple.  He couldn¡¯t bother with her.  He would find his sprite outside in the Light Plane.  Time meant nothing here and he had all the time he needed to find his destined partner.

    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

    The woman watched in utter shock as Paden turned around and left.  It took a few moments before she processed he had left her.  He left.  He left me.  No one has ever been so rude, she thought numbly after his figure disappeared.  She grew inflamed by his brazen actions in dismissing her.

    Paden walked around.  He saw several sprites.  Some were like the woman who had an adult human form.  However some were as small as his palm.  He had seen a few men but they kept their distance.  He could feel that although they were not hostile, they were also not as affectionate as the females were.

    After some time the crowds of sprites grew lesser and lesser which confused Paden.  He knew the Light Plane should have many sprites so their decreasing numbers confused him.  He had even spotted some who looked fearful which perplexed him.  Why do they seem scared of me, he wondered?

    ¡°Fufufufu.  This is what you get for ignoring me,¡± spoke an arrogant voice from behind Paden.

    Paden looked and saw the woman sitting on a wall overlooking him before dropping down to the ground.  This answered his questions of why the sprites seemed to be avoiding him.  The woman was using her authority to scare off potential sprites.  This pissed off Paden.  He walked up to her.  Smack.

    The woman looked at Paden dumbly as she held the cheek he had just slapped.  She couldn¡¯t believe he had just hit her.  Weren¡¯t men weak to beautiful women?  She looked at him wide eyed in surprise.

    ¡°You hit me,¡± she said in disbelief.

    ¡°Yea,¡± he told her calmly.

    ¡°You hit me,¡± she repeated.

    ¡°Nothing gets passed you, huh?¡± he asked sarcastically.  He was beginning to get fed up with her parroting the same phrase over and over.

    ¡°You hit me.¡±

    Paden had enough of her and walked off.  She stood still as he left her once again.

    ¡°Wait, wait, wait,¡± the woman said to stop Paden as she dashed at him.

    Paden turned around and gave her a fed up look.  ¡°What do you want now?¡± he asked her irritated.

    ¡°You hit me,¡± she parroted once again.

    ¡°Yeah, well, you were annoying,¡± he told her begrudgingly.

    ¡°You hit me.¡±

    ¡°We established that already.¡±

    ¡°No you hit me.  Humans are supposed to be unable to hurt us here in our plane,¡± she told him with a curious gaze.

    Paden looked at her.  What does that mean, he wondered?  He shrugged.  He would ask Weillin and his father when he got back.  The most important thing is finding a sprite.

    ¡°Well, bye,¡± he told her abruptly and motioned to leave.

    The woman reached out and held him in place.  ¡°Seal a contract with me.¡±

    Paden looked at her stupidly.  ¡°Why would I want to?¡±

    ¡°I am the best sprite you will ever find,¡± she told him smugly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t like your personality.  I will look elsewhere.¡±

    ¡°You, can it be you want me to be submissive.  Even though you are young, you have such inclinations already,¡± she told him while jumping to her own conclusions.  Paden turned red, wondering how she got that from eight words.

    ¡°Okay I will submit.  Now let¡¯s seal the contract,¡± she told him fast seeing he was about to change his mind.

    Paden was taken aback by her abrupt change in personality.  ¡°Why?¡± he asked unsure.

    The woman looked pressed for time.  ¡°Look, just seal the contract.¡±  Paden did nothing and looked at her.  She groaned in frustration.  ¡°Fine.  My sisters will come soon.  I don¡¯t want them to steal you,¡± she admitted with a cute expression.

    Paden thought about it briefly before deciding it was as good as he was going to get.  Her personality left something to be desired but the power was real so he held out his hand.  She grabbed it and placed it over her chest as Paden blushed despite knowing what was coming.  She looked at his expression and smiled as though she had won.

    The next part established the control.  It was completely reliant on the strength of the contracting mage¡¯s own power.  If it was high enough the sprite could be completely enslaved and have to listen to their mage¡¯s orders completely.  However, such contracts were rare.  Almost all contracts were equal contracts.

    However, something happened which surprised the sprite.  She only looked at the exposed portion of his power.  However, that was a portion which was essentially halved by his seal.  The contract took into account his power without it a power that was enormous and completely unnoticed by the sprite.

    The contract finished as the sprite look at Paden flabbergasted.  The contract was one step up from a slave contract.  She could ignore some orders but a majority she could not.  More than that, Paden would have a commanding presence in their contract connection.  It would be something that defined their relationship not right away but years down the road.

    She was surprised and mad but very curious about the identity of the youth.  She had never heard of a mage having such power at so young an age.  It was virtually unheard of.  A lifetime with him may not be so bad, she thought as she looked at his young face.

    Paden felt a burning sensation as a pipeline engraved itself upon his consciousness and connected him to the sprite.  He felt her through his connection.  It gave him a warm feeling of familiarity that made him smile as he had forgotten his displeasure at her earlier actions.  That didn¡¯t matter anymore to him as though a distant memory.

    Paden felt himself becoming hazy.  He felt a soft pair of hands being place on his face as a quiet whisper, reached his ears.  ¡°My name is ¡­¡± whispered the soft voice of the sprite as she gazed at Paden longingly.

 Chapter 15: Rest and Understanding

    AN:  Author here.  Making slight change.  Sprites will be changed to spirit as this represents what they are fundamentally.  Next week or so, updates will be made to previous posts changing their titles.  As this is a minor change, it is not a true update and will not reflect so in the title.

    ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

    Paden awoke groggily as he sat up from the sofa.  He could make out some faint shuffled movements around him as a servant left to retrieve his family and tell them he awoke.  He sat in silence as he recalled his experience in the light spiritual plane and his contract with the pompous light spirit.

    Paden turned to look as Weillin and Grandpa Selmitt walked into the sitting room with expectant looks.  Paden had been under for three days straight which was the longest they had ever seen an initiate mage take.   They were looking forward to learning the class of spirit he contracted with given his excellent affinity to Light.

    ¡°How was it?¡± Weillin asked expectantly, unable to contain himself.

    Grandpa Selmitt looked at Weillin and signaled for him to follow in seating himself before questioning Paden.  The two sat on the couch opposite of Paden as he recounted his adventure in the light plane.  When they heard him speak of the light spirit referring to herself as ¡®The Exalted Lady of White Light¡¯ they groaned inwardly wondering how he could have such a mix of good and bad luck.

    As light element mages of substantial standing, they possessed equally powerful spirits of their own.  How could they not know of the infamous spirit?  She was widely known amongst their peers as the most difficult spirit to contract with and more infamous for her domineering personality.  The last mage to contract with her made the mistake of infuriating her during their time together that she suppressed his future offspring from being able to find spirits in the light plane for the last two hundred years.

    The two looked at one another not knowing whether to laugh or cry at Paden¡¯s mix of fortune and misfortune depending on how one looked at it.  This was all missed by Paden who continued to retell his story making them gobsmacked.  The boy had sealed a contract with a royal class spirit and it favored him to the point it was almost a slave contract.  They wondered how the spirit would accept a contract of such since they should be able to judge a mage¡¯s power versus their own and know the kind of contract they were getting into.

    When Paden finished his recount he looked at Weillin and Grandpa Selmitt.  ¡°So when do we begin the dark contract ceremony?¡±

    ¡°Not right away.  We will first have you familiarize yourself with your light spirit and prepare you for the dark contract ceremony.  You still need to recover your spiritual strength as walking in other planes diminishes that power.  You need to be at one hundred percent,¡± Grandpa Selmitt informed him as he stood up to go inform his wife and Marie.

    Weillin watched his father step out and focused back on Paden.  ¡°So have you decided on a name?¡± questioned Weillin as

    Paden looked at him in confusion.  ¡°You received your spirit¡¯s name, correct?¡±  Paden nodded.  ¡°Don¡¯t use that.  We give our spirits names so as to conceal their identity.  It is a form of protection for not only us but them as well.¡±  Paden had a shallow understanding of the reason as Weillin further elaborated on spirits.

    Spirits are beings that grow beside their contractors as they grow.  They do not start off with the strength they possess in their plane as the human realm functioned under different laws then the spiritual plane.  To gain strength on this realm they need help from their human mage partner.

    As they grow in strength they can hold a physical presence in the realm not only longer but eventually they can manifest perpetually.  The powers they wield individually isn¡¯t something to scoff at, especially one as powerful as Paden¡¯s.  However, the use of the contracts with spirits is not limited to simply having a second being for support.  It lies in their ability to assist their mages in casting more powerful spells.

    Weillin explained that each pair of mage and spirit has the ability to partner their understanding of their element into a single unique spell available to only them.  Paden¡¯s father, for example, was a specialist as a battle mage.  He was able to conjure an incredibly powerful armor of bone and sword from the nether realm that enhanced his fighting prowess on the fields of battle.  Weillin was likewise able to conjure a similar armor of light.  Marie had her own specialty but he declined to speak of it and Paden didn¡¯t ask.

    If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    Weillin also explained that shortly after the ceremony, his spirit will slumber within his body and slowly feed off his magical energy.  Once enough time passed, she will awaken and they will be able to continue with lessons and prepare him for his contract ceremony.  Until she woke up he should spend his time thinking of a good name for her to use in public.

    Weillin also relayed some etiquette concerning spirits amongst mages.  It is considered low brow for anyone to ask the level of a spirit of another mage or ask for its real name.  Asking for their abilities is determined by context of situation as mages commonly form groups in the academy for hunting expeditions for training.  However, if someone declines it is best not to press further and never share anything beyond what you feel comfortable.

    Marie and Lilith had stepped in just as Weillin finished his explanation.  ¡°Is it true?¡± Lilith asked with excitement as she sat beside Paden.  Weillin nodded as Lilith squealed in elation as she hugged Paden.  Paden did not reject her hug and accepted it with feigned resistance as a voice resounded in his head.

    ¡°How is it you reject me and accept this ancient woman?¡± interrogated the familiar voice of his spirit in annoyance.

    ¡°Huh?¡± voiced Paden allowed as he wondered how she awoke so fast in confusion.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± asked Marie when she heard her nephew.

    ¡°She¡¯s awake,¡± replied Paden as he looked at Weillin for an explanation.  Weillin told him it usually took days for spirits to recover after securing the initial contract.

    ¡°Already?!¡± voiced Marie with shock as she likewise looked at Weillin.  Weillin had more informational knowledge on magical matters as Marie liked to learn from experience and was more prone to action.

    Weillin was outwardly calm.  He had observed many surprising things about his nephew and had prepared himself.  He thought about it logically.  A night had barely passed since the completion of the ceremony.  Normally a mage was exhausted after completion but Paden seemed oddly chipper.  That kind of stamina was unreal in a mage barely practiced in any forms of magic.  He couldn¡¯t tell why he was like this so he would need to have Paden slowly understand his own body through his own experiences as he trained.

    Weillin observed his wife looking for an answer but shrugged.  ¡°I do not know why you recovered quickly as well as why your spirit did.  However, we will have you learn before you attempt the dark contract ceremony.¡±

    ¡°Dark contract ceremony?  You, why would you need to¡­unless¡­ Are you a dual element in light and dark?¡± questioned the spirit excitedly as she screamed into Paden¡¯s head.

    Paden nodded through his connection with her instinctually.  He didn¡¯t know why but he just understood how to make use of it and was able to hold a conversation with her in his head while speaking with his family.  Paden thought nothing of it but if his family knew, they would surely drop their jaws upon learning of it.

    Paden left for his bedroom as he conversed with the spirit in his head.  She continued to question him and he answered her honestly.  He explained about his affinities and how he had a seal which sent the girl in a furry.  She started cursing out several gods and complaining of how incompetent whoever sealed him was and if she ever found them she would wring their necks out.

    When he finally arrived to his room, the spirit finally spoke out remembering something.

    ¡°So what¡¯s my name?¡± she asked Paden eagerly as he felt her look of anticipation through their shared connection.

    ¡°Luanne,¡± Paden told her solemnly through the connection as he decided just then.  The spirit felt his sorrow and understood this name carried some significance.

    ¡°Who was she?¡± Luanne asked softly as she sent back some comforting feelings.  She was selfish but knew when not to be arrogant.

    ¡°My mother,¡± Paden began as he explained about his life back in the village before Weillin came to get him.

    Luanne calmly listened to Paden as he vented his feelings of loss to someone after years of bottling it up.  She listened in silence to his painful tail, sensing his grief and loss through their connection.  She calmly listened to the boy who had become her partner, gaining an understanding of his character.  She was happy with him.  He would not abuse her power or fall prey to degradation as so many other mages had, so she believed.

 Chapter 16: Dark Plane

    AN: Sorry about the delay in putting out a chapter.  Hope you enjoy this exploration into the Dark Plane.

    _____________________________________________________________________________________________

    Paden spent the following days in relative relaxation as he recovered his spiritual power.  He continued to talk to Luanne through his connection, learning more about the light plane and spirits in general.  As the days passed, Luanne started speaking less arrogantly as she had when they first met it was almost tolerable to Paden.

    Paden was once again in the familiar room with Marie and the rest of the family.  It was now time to begin the dark ceremony and Marie had drawn the formation he sat upon.  She had given him a lot of information pertaining to the dark realm.  Each piece of information only seemed to fuel his uncertainty about being able to complete a contract.  It was to be suspected as dark spirits were notoriously known for their malevolent nature.

    Paden began to meditate as Marie chanted and activated the formation under him.  A familiar sense of uplift penetrated his spirit and before he knew it, he was inside a world of endless darkness.

    He stood taking in the sight or lack thereof.  Per his instructions he began by slowly acclimating himself and trying to ¡®see¡¯.  Eventually his vision changed as though a red tint were placed over his eyes allowing him to make out shapes and distinctions in his surroundings.  As he grew comfortable a sudden blinding light flashed almost blinding him as he reflexively closed his eyes.

    Fighting his sudden disorientation he looked at the culprit with aggrieved eyes as she returned a look of innocence.  The look irritated him and he began to pinch her rosy cheeks as she cried in pain.

    ¡°What was that for?!¡± Luanne cried as she rubbed her cheeks with her white hands.

    ¡°You almost blinded me, woman!¡± Paden told her angrily as he took in his surroundings, dismissing her own feelings of being wronged.  So this is the dark plane?

    The dark plane looked like a twisted nightmare.  He stood on a hill overlooking a city with twisted spires and collapsed homes.  Compared to the ¡®immaculate¡¯ feel of the light plane, the dark plane could be explained in a contrasting word, chaotic.  A shiver ran down his spine as tortured wails in the distance elicited a feeling of fear in his heart.  Logically, he knew he could not be physically harmed in this plane but the risk of possession was explained.  He was not looking forward to the feeling of being some spirit¡¯s puppet for a lifetime.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Paden said before leaving without waiting for Luanne¡¯s response.

    The two walked down the hill a short ways before a long serpent burst from a nearby dead bush.  Paden was well aware he would be attacked during the ceremony and had been prepped by Marie.  He quickly formed a dark sphere into his palm and threw it at the serpent as it rushed them.  The creature hissed in agony as it retreated angrily.

    Like this, Paden and Luanne were repeatedly attacked by several lower ranked spirits.  Luanne had no power in this plane as she had in the light plane.  She could use her affinity with light but that would only suppress the others party to a certain extent.  Paden grumbled inwardly at her seeming uselessness.  She had on more than one occasion invited disaster on them by giving their location away.

    They arrived at a broken wall of the city and made their way through as several spirits looked at them.  Paden looked at the varying amount of spirits which were completely different from the spirits of the light plane.  He had counted several that had beastly almost demonic appearances in contrast to the human like appearances of those in the light plane.  As he was looking around, his eyes fell onto a muscular demon like spirit with horns and snake like eyes.

    The demon walked towards Paden with a smug look.  ¡°Another frail human come to try their luck?¡± he sneered with disdain as some of the surrounding spirits laughed.  ¡°Kid, leave the woman and we¡¯ll let you through.¡±

    Paden scoffed mockingly as the grin on the demon changed into a look of anger.  ¡°Brat that doesn¡¯t know his place.¡±

    He dashed over and swung his large fist at Paden who stood still, not giving his attack a second thought.  The fist was met with the casual grasp of Paden who closed his grip as the demon cried in agony.  He struggled to free himself from Paden who only closed his hand tighter causing the sounds of his bones being ground to fine powder to be heard.  The surrounding spirits looked at Paden in shock.

    The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    This kind of strength was to be expected.  Compared to the light plane where his light element had been sealed leaving him virtually powerless, here in the dark realm, Paden could fully display his excellent affinity to darkness.  His power in the dark realm was nothing to scoff at and a royal class spirit like Luanne would possibly be unable to contend with his strength.

    With a casual step, Paden threw a punch into the stomach of the demon and launched him meters away before it fell into the dirt.  It was not dead but it might as well be.  In the dark realm, spirits regularly fought and consumed one another in order to gain more strength.  Paden¡¯s mercy did not matter one bit as spirits swarmed the down demon and pulled him apart consuming his power.

    Paden looked at this with some mixed feelings as Luanne snorted.  She could not believe the audacity of it and would have killed it herself if she were back in her realm.  However, she was suppressed in this plane and could barely count as a noble class spirit in this with her current power.

    He signaled to Luanne and they continued on through the city.  Similar situations as the earlier continued as arrogant spirits tried to challenge Paden.  He was growing frustrated as a spirit that suited him had yet to appear and all he seemed to be doing was killing lower demons.  He had begun to wonder where in this city was its domain ruler.  If it was sufficiently powerful he would offer to contract if not then he would look elsewhere.

    However, no spirits gave him information as to where the domain ruler of this city was.  He was not as fortunate in appearing right in their home like he had with Luanne.  Worse, it seemed the ruler was shrouded in mystery even to its own brethren.  Going by rumors, Paden had some inkling it was royal class like Luanne or at least higher noble class.

    Eventually they arrived at an area that looked like an execution area.  It was oddly quiet and Paden noticed that spirits had avoided this area for some reason.  His curiosity was raised so he wandered in as Luanne faltered behind him.  Paden turned to see what the fuss was and saw that Luanne had disappeared.  He felt something amiss and became vigilant.

    The ground beneath him began to shake and a decaying hand grabbed at his ankle as he dashed back.  He watched as one after another, five decaying corpses rose from the ground.  He instantly channeled magic and created a dark sphere and threw it at them one by one.  They collapsed and disappeared but soon a dozen bodies rose from the ground and attacked him.

    He had fought off and killed several before the rest enclosed on him, pinning him to the ground.  He quickly tried to think of a way out of this but noticed a large stone hand shoot out of the ground holding Luanne in its grasp.  As he was wondering what was happening, he heard a soft chuckle from next to him.

    Paden turned his head to see a man sitting on the execution platform while smiling at him as though his dilemma were a source of entertainment.  He moved slightly and fell softly to the ground before walking purposefully towards Paden.

    The man was in his late twenties and possessed pitch black hair and eyes.  His sharp features and neatly trimmed beard gave him a roguishly handsome look.  His body was finely built with lean muscle hidden by the soft black robes that covered it.

    The man became aware of Paden¡¯s presence and the fact he was accompanied by another spirit.  While multiple affinities were not rare, he was deeply surprised to find his companion was a light spirit.  Out of fun, he laid a test for the boy.  Should he pass, he would have reason to approach and if not, he could care less for the boy.

    He could sense his excellent affinity for darkness as soon as he set foot into the execution arena.  A mage of less power would curl up into a mess as their minds shattered from the inherent evil of the area as it corrupted and twisted their souls.  What had surprised him was the boy seemed to strut about without noticing it as though this were just any other part of the dark plane.  He felt bad for the others but this child would be his.

    ¡°You¡­are interesting,¡± he spoke softly as he raised a hand to lift Paden¡¯s chin.  He saw the look of resistance in his eyes and smiled inwardly, amused.  Innocent children like him were his favorites.  In the end, they all fell to their baser instincts.  He would be no different, he quietly thought.