《Phantasm》 Chapter 1: Nightmare PHANTASM: CONTINENT OF TARANOS Like every ordinary day Kellen came home early from school and rushed to his room to change. He lives with his mother in one hundred sq. meter apartment in Manila. His mother is a call center agent on one of the promising company in the country. Being a single parent for almost fourteen years¡¯ she had been able to raise a reliable and astute son. It is difficult on the start but she manages to overcome the struggled for the past years. Kellen is intelligent and competitive, always one of the top student in the class, he represents his school in various competitions and do some sports with his circle of friends. When he was at home his favorite pastime is reading books or novels that pique his interest and playing the guitar to lessen his boredom. He loves and respects his mom the most, especially when he discovered that his father had run with another women and did not take the responsibility when his mother was pregnant on him. He try to asked his mother about this matter but she never gave him any more details about it. He lost the interest on it and never attempts to raise the question again. His mother raise him well alone, and she''s enough already for him. Since they only have each other, they make a schedule for everyday chores in the house, his mother is assign to cook and tidy his clothes for school during morning while he is assigned on cooking and cleaning during the evening. This routine starts for three years now. Occasionally his grandparents paid a visit to them and stay there for three to five days for catching up on them, during this time he can relax a bit. Since it is still early to cook for their dinner and feel really tired today he decided to take a short nap, throwing himself in a soft bed he fell asleep in a second. Not long after he dozes off , he discern something was off because he feels light and his like floating on something, when he opened his eyes it looks like his really floating while lying flat, all he can see is pitch black and he felt nervous somehow. ¡®What the! Am i dreaming already?'' Kellen thought to himself when his checking his surroundings. He tried to move his legs but it seems that his lower body is not responding so instead he sway his arms and check it, but same thing happened. Experiencing his body becoming stiff he sway his head back and forth. He look left and below him to check what is in there but it¡¯s really dark down below to satisfy his curiosity he steep his head downward venting until his chest, suddenly he felt a chilling sensation on his head going through his chest when he look up while in a steep position his eyes budge wide open in fright. He saw his physical body still lying there in flat, while he in his incorporeal form now is below of his body half attach to it. ¡®Oh no, come on please I need to wake up¡¯ Kellen thought at this moment that this dream is getting worst in fact he knows that it is a turning into a nightmare his trying to wake up but he cannot do it right now. ¡®My soul is leaving my body but not completely, only my head and chest are getting cold and there is a numbing sensation. I need to move, and go to my body¡¯ He¡¯s trying to move his chest upward but it feels so heavy the only part of his body that can move is his head he can sense that his body is sliding slowly downward. A moment later a third of his soul has been out in his body and he felt numb and chill in his legs now his fingers in his hand and feet is crossing to each other and he feels it, his whole body is starting to tremble now. ¡®Noooo¡­.. what is happening to me, am I going to die? I need to go back. Please wake me Ma? ¡¯ But whatever he do it is still futile he cannot raise his self to his body and also cannot resist it. A moment later he can feel the cold feeling in his whole body and his descending in a high-speed rate. ????? Kadim Forest which is known as Forest of Despair, it is considered as no man¡¯s place because of the impending danger and unpredictable phenomenon inside of it. Even skilled Mercenary and hunter will never risk their lives to enter it. One of the famous incident that happened here is the annihilation of the entire expedition of Prince Crast that consist of 2500 elite member of the royal army only five had survived and told that they were attacked by the horde of demons that suddenly spawn in their group and starting to assault but when they figure out that there are no demons and they were killing each other it is already too late because a pack of beast starting to rush on their location because of the scent of bloodbath all over the place. From then on more stories emerge and all of them results in deaths of the people trying to enter the forest, time pass people still fearing this forest and started to call it Forest of Despair from then on it is consider as one of the dangerous place in the entire continent. Kadim Forest is vast with a measure of 450 miles west to east and 380 miles from north to south, no one fully discover the inner part of the forest they can only explore one fifth of its area if you proceed further you can encounter dangerous terrain and strong beast that inhabited the entire forest. No one know that In the heart of this forest there is an extinct volcano and in the mouth of it there is a small island that surrounded by a lake, right now there are two silhouettes that is hiding in a nearby tree. ????[Boss, look a spirit! It seems like a human] ????[Silence, let¡¯s observe first don¡¯t make any more sounds or he will hear us you know that spirit You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.has a good sight and hearing I want to know how he got here] he said while looking at the lying spirit not too far away. Kellen have landed on a grass he doesn¡¯t feel pain but his body cannot still move, he check the surrounding by rolling his eyes and notice that there are trees everywhere. He don¡¯t know if his eyes are deceiving him but everything that surround him has a radiance in them he thought that this is natural because his eyes are adjusting to light since he is previously in a dark place. He smells the mixture of fresh air and grass, his hearing is somewhat off, there is a ringing sound like his been slap in the ear, he can also discern the sound of crickets so he made a conclusion that it is night already. ¡®What place is this, recently I am just falling and now this, lying here in grass surrounded by trees¡¯, with a curious expression he tried to stand up, this time he can somehow able to move his body. He tried to walk and feels like a baby that learning its first step, feeling that his body weighing a tons he move slowly. In his sight there is a nearby body of water so he wants to check it, there is a faint white brilliance in all of the things that he saw tree, stone, grass, insect and even the water has that luminosity it is refreshing to his sight and look surreal this place pique his curiosity. When he is near the lake he heard a faint conversation in his back his not sure what they were talking, he glance on the direction of the conversation when he saw no one in the open space he continue walking through the lake. Moments later he heard the conversation resume and this time he is sure that he is not alone and there are other people here he check the surrounding for the possible hiding spot and he saw the nearest group of trees fifty meter on where his standing. He walk to that direction to check if there are people hiding, his not even half on the location when he saw two silhouettes that came out behind the tree he was startled and move a few step back he cannot see their whole figure but the brilliance they emitting was different instead of white like any other thing he saw they were radiating a faint red and orange brilliance. The two silhouettes are starting to walk in his direction and the one in front are speaking but he cannot understand what his talking about, though he is sure that the person is talking to him. ¡®What is this feeling? What are they going to do? I think I need to get out of here¡¯ his starting to panic and don¡¯t know what to do if his going to run or stay. Bit by bit he can see the two silhouettes appearance. ¡°H¡­hheloo..o I¡­.jus¡± with his shaky voice and trembling knees he tried to utter some words but did not finish his sentence when he was been sucked upward by some unknown force. ¡°Kellen ¡­.. Kellen ¡­.. wake up!¡± Danica shaking Kellen¡¯s body frantically with worried expression. Kellen¡¯s body is stiff and looks like his been electrocuted shaking his head left and right while sweating profusely. ¡°Ma thank you¡± he mumbles while gasping for breath. ¡°You¡¯re having a nightmare, look at you ¡­.. did you eat before sleeping? I told you not to eat before sleeping because there¡¯s a possibility that you having a nightmare¡± Danica reproach in one breath. ¡°No I only sleep because I feel tired, Ma can I have a glass of water I think I run in a marathon for being this thirsty¡± He asked in a charming voice. ¡°Wait me here I bring you water¡± She left the room and go downstairs to grab some glass and pitcher. Kellen¡¯s checking taking of his cloths to change he wipe his sweat all over he can still feel the cold from his head to toe when he look his face in the mirror he is somewhat pale and his lips has lost some color on it. ¡°If Mama did not wake me up I don¡¯t know what would happen to me¡± he exclaimed this while his changing when his mother enter the room and give him a glass of water he gulp it in a second and ask for another glass. ¡°Ma, thanks for waking me up I¡¯ve really had an odd dream. By the way why you¡¯re early today?¡± Kellen asked his mother while taking a glass of water on his mother¡¯s hand. ¡°What early you talking about its already pass 8 p.m. and we don¡¯t have anything for dinner yet, so I came to check you, who have thought that your sleeping and having a nightmare¡± he frowned after his mother said that it¡¯s already pass eight in the evening. ¡®4 hours did I really slept that long¡¯ he thought with a confuse expression ¡°Sorry Ma but I only take a nap because I really feel tired I did not expect that I would slept that long. Anyway I will cook real quickly, just give me a minute¡± Kellen take the pitcher on his mother¡¯s hand and going to rush to the kitchen. ¡°No Need¡± he heard his mother stopping him ¡°Ma?¡± Kellen blurted out ¡°I said no need I already order a pizza so you don¡¯t need to cook and it¡¯s getting late already I think it will arrive within twenty minutes¡± ¡°Just come down when you¡¯re done here¡± he nodded and smiles meekly to his mother whose exiting his room. ¡®Weird and scary dream, I don¡¯t want to experience that again but that place is beautiful too bad I did not able to check the lake. I wonder what that guy are saying, is that a place somewhere on earth¡¯ his mind was pondering about the incident that happens on his dream. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for reading the first chapter of my first fiction feel free to comment and please rate if you like it. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 2: Incident and Invitation Chapter 2: Incident and Invitation ¡°Boss it seems that spirit is still a juvenile, very unfortunate, his too young to die¡± ¡°Idiot didn¡¯t you see that he still got a marking in his forehead, it means that his still got his body and not dead!¡± the two guys are talking about the spirit that they saw lying on the grass and now walking in the direction of the lake. ¡°Look I think he notice us, don¡¯t talk again¡± After a moment of silence the importunate one cannot endure to talk ¡°Wow boss I think your right, soul has a good hearing¡± he said with amusement ¡°Boss I think that his going to the lake, ooops I think he hear me, sorry¡± while covering his mouth and looking sideways. ¡±What¡¯s the matter with you why can¡¯t you understand to stay quiet do you want to get a beating huh! Look at that guy his really going to check on us¡± his voice is now a little louder with a tone of annoyance. ¡°Well he already notice us here so no need to hide¡± the guy is slowly getting closer, so they decided to come out from hiding. ¡°Hey kid you seems at lost do you know where you are¡± his talking to the guy that seems stuttered in their sudden appearance behind the tree. ¡°I tell you what you¡¯re here at the middle of Kadim Forest and on top of my place the beautiful mount Hayaman¡± he said with a proud voice but the kid was somewhat scared and move backward. ¡®What is with this guy is he a mute¡¯ ¡°H¡­hheloo..o I¡­.jus¡± the kid said when suddenly he got vanished on the spot ¡°Boss what happen is that the ability of a ghost?¡± ¡°No, his a spirit not a ghost remember, I don¡¯t know either, maybe. . . maybe he move to somewhere else or returned to his place or go back to his body. You see I am also not familiar with that kind of thing. Let us return now I am going to ask the old man about what we saw.¡± ????? The rooster did his job during morning and the sun is wrapping the city with its embrace, the ray of it is reaching the face of a man that is currently sleeping in his tattered bed. This man is now the twenty nine years old Kellen, wearing only a jet black pajama pants the sound of the rooster is his alarm clock for almost a year now when he move to this thirty sq. meter one room apartment in Taguig. He move in here when his house was been foreclosed a year ago, the rent here is low, the water is free and the room is fairly decent which makes him choose this place. The neighborhood is fine the street is lively during the day you can see people chatting on the street, children playing various games and some individual passing by to rush on their errand. Kellen woke up from the sound of the rooster outside and start to clean and fix his bed, after that he cooked bacon and egg, prepare some rice for his breakfast and made a coffee. He pulled the curtain on the side to ventilate his apartment, viewing the outside he can see people doing their usual businesses. He prepare his dress and take a bath, today his going to have an interview with the newly establish construction firm in Taguig and this is his twenty third interview for this month. This is really far opposite experience just eight years ago, when he graduated in college and past the board exam being second to the top for civil engineering, at that time the company is the one who encouraging him to apply to their company and offer him many benefits. In the end he accepted the job offer in one of the leading construction company, not long after he has been recognized and been well know after five years. That time he was in the peak of his career, he got well-paying job, money, his own house, girlfriend, circle of friends and he is considered as one of the skilled and competitive engineer in their company and also in the engineering community across the country. Who would have thought that from the peak of his career he would instantly drop down to that state. It all happened two years ago when the construction building that they were making collapsed and turn to rubble, many people died on site and some who count themselves lucky had only take small injuries during the incident. It became the national news for almost a month, when the investigation reports have filed in he was the most shocked. It said that the materials they used on the construction are substandard and low in quality. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. The primary responsible to this is the three engineers who are in charge for the project and he is one of them. He didn¡¯t know that his two seniors and also some of the director inside the company are in cahoots on making a kickback from buying substandard construction material for almost a decade already. They were really good on deceiving the uninvolved party because he also inspects the material that the construction will going to use and he was sure that it¡¯s a top class. He was implicated in the things that he has no knowledge about and considered as his in collaboration to the two and other official of the company. The company sued him, though he ended up winning the case and found innocent, it was contrariwise on his job. The company reliance on him is also reduce to rubble and did not take his service anymore and lose his job that he spent sweat and blood for those six years. After he lost his job the rest follows, his friends that he thought would help him starting to turn their back on him, some are secretly envy him before and now turn to be happy on his downfall, his girlfriend left him after that, he mortgage his house to the bank and sold most of his assets to cover all of his expenses. To make all things worst there is still no company hiring him because of the incident that involving him and his reputation to the other company is also bad. Now he ended up in a small one room apartment in the residential part of the city. Kellen became a fine and strong man through all those year, now his getting ready for his interview. Standing in front of the mirror his wearing a dark grey trouser, black leather shoes and white long sleeve folded by one third, his height of one meter and eighty five centimeter with his short hair and natural brown color skin he looks quite handsome. ¡®I must get this job it is getting irritating lately, this interview thing is getting boring and boring, I can even answer their question without them finishing their sentence¡¯ he was recalling the many interviews he had, asking same question again and again. ????? Outside the building in Taguig Kellen was standing on a bus stop waiting there after his interview appointment finished not long ago. << Phone ringing>> ¡°Hi Ma!¡± Kellen answered the phone ¡°Kellen I called you to know if you already have a job. If not your uncle Pan will recommend you to one of his friend that started a business, I think it should be okay even if it is not related to engineering so you can have a job for the time being¡± knowing that his son is having difficulty with the money she insisting him always to try the job. ¡°Thanks Ma, but I don¡¯t need it right now because I already have a job¡± Kellen replied, then he stand up to enter the bus. ¡°Really, that¡¯s good what company is it and where?¡± Danica¡¯s voice became delight immediately ¡°Garboa Construction and it¡¯s also in Taguig, they say that they need skill and not concerned to the incident that involving me and I explained that I am innocent on that and they want to give me a shot¡± Kellen exhaled and smiled slightly ¡°Congratulation son, I hope that it will be the start for you to recoup on your lost, by the way son are you free today? I want us to have a dinner together with your sister and uncle Pan, you never show yourself for a year now¡± Danica make a deep sighed ¡°Okay Ma don¡¯t worry now that I have a job there is no reason not to come, I also miss Lissy, how is she?¡± Kellen asked¡± She¡¯s fine and healthy, your sister also miss you. Let¡¯s talk again later at the dinner I will prepare your favorite dishes, you take care then¡± Danica hang up after the last sentence. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank You for reading. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 3: Dinner Chapter 3: Dinner After Kellen got home he rest for a while then take a bath again and change for a casual clothes, tonight his going to have a dinner with her mother and sister to his uncle Pan¡¯s house. Pan Gaudi is his mother¡¯s husband, she got married two years after he graduated in college. Pan is a small time business at that time, managing two restaurant in Manila he woo his mother for three years before they started dating. He made a good impression on Kellen for taking care of his mother and making her smile, they got a daughter one year after they married and now live happily in a private subdivision. Kellen is standing in front of a big house with a wide gate, a maid open the gate and welcome him inside there¡¯s a garden full of flower pot and a fishpond in the center. The house has a modern design a combination of white, black and blue color. He entered the big house it is cozy and relaxing when you¡¯re inside, the furniture are very outstanding it has a unique sense of characteristic with each of one. ¡°Kuya Kellen¡± a four year old girl wearing a dress with white lace collar and a black belt shouted out beside him. Kellen smile widely ¡°Haha. Hello my little Lissy you look energetic, come here give me a hugged¡± he gave Lissy a big hugged and kissed her cheek. ¡°Brother why you only came now you didn¡¯t come to my Birthday last month¡± Lissy pouted his cheek and looked adorable while her both hands is in her side. ¡°So cute¡± Kellen pinched her cheek ¡°Sorry Lissy brother is a bit busy this past month so please forgive me okay¡± he smiled slightly and carry Lissy with both arms. Lissy look at him and smile widely ¡°Okay, mommy is in the kitchen cooking and daddy is not here yet I am alone here so brother please play with me¡± she made a charming eyes like on a kitten and make Kellen¡¯s heart warm. ¡°No problem, brother will go play with you for a bit but I need to greet Mama first¡± Kellen proceed to the kitchen and kissed his mother on the cheek. Danica was stirring a stew, she look at Kellen and said ¡°Bless you, your early I was just in the middle of cooking I will be finish here in a while¡± ¡°No it¡¯s fine I arrive early to spend more time here. That looks delicious.¡± Kellen checking the food that being cook He stared to his mother and said ¡°Ma I notice that you look younger did you take a surgery?¡± Danica immediately respond ¡°You idiot don¡¯t try to tease your mother isn¡¯t it obvious that your mother is naturally beautiful I don¡¯t need the doctor¡± she said proudly and started to laugh, it is true that Danica looks younger with her age you would not anticipate that she¡¯s in her late forties. A moments later Pan arrive at the house, he looks astute and easy to go with, you can see confidence in him when his walking. He grinned when he saw Kellen and Lissy together. At that time Kellen was playing with Lissy he took his uncle Pan¡¯s hand and put it in his forehead this is how they show respect to their elder people in this country. Pan kisses Lissy on her cheek then the three of them move to the dining area. They ate dinner together there are lots of foods that been serve Kellen dig in until he can¡¯t breathe. Afterwards they have a fun time in living room chatting, laughing and jesting. Lissy start to show off his talent dancing and singing, everyone were happy this is the first time they were together again after a year. ¡°Kellen I am glad that you visit us this time, it¡¯s been a while since we had this fun in the house¡± Pan suddenly said. Kellen nodded ¡°Yeah, uncle Pan thank you for taking care of my mother and also my sister I can see that they were happy, you¡¯re doing a great job¡± giving him a thumbs up. Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. Pan stares at him and said ¡°Of course you know I really love your mom, besides I did promise that I will take care of her whole heartedly. Hahaha¡± he laughs loudly while looking at Danica who is blushing. The three were chatting until late at night then Kellen bade farewell to go home he was satisfied on today¡¯s visit and feel refreshed. After seeing his mother contented and happy it makes his heart at ease. Kellen is walking in the empty street in the middle of the night, mesmerizing the life he had this past year feeling grateful that he get through all of it somehow. His place is just five blocks away, when suddenly a group of people came running wildly and pass through him bumping him on the side. He shouted furiously ¡°HEY WATCH YOUR WAY THE STREET IS WIDE¡± the group of young man only glances at him and keep running. ¡®Those fucking arrogant guys not saying sorry to someone you bumped, there so many jerks nowadays? It will be good if I smashed them one by one to their stupid faces¡¯ he murmured to himself. Another group of people looks infuriated running on his back when he heard their angry voices approaching he look at his back and saw seven to ten man in their twenties holding blunt weapon, suddenly his ears are ringing and everything is swirling he can feel a hot liquid flowing beside his face. He tried to speak but another hit in the face was been dealt to him again this time he lose his consciousness. Resident called the police, not long after they came to the scene and started to pacify the disturbance. The group that thumped Kellen were all been arrested they create quite a commotion throughout the neighborhood. It appears that the other group provoked them first and they started to chase them. Kellen rush to the hospital by the ambulance he was admitted immediately in the emergency room and doctor started to operate him. His body state is really bad, blood¡¯s all over his body with a swollen face you cannot recognize him anymore. He has also some bruises and broken bones. A female doctor with eyeglass standing in front of the reception talking to the officer that came with Kellen. ¡°Officer did you contact the immediate guardian of the patient?¡± she inquired the officer who just finished talking on his police radio. ¡°Yes, they will be arriving here shortly¡± he replied with a confidence. The doctor sighed and said ¡°That¡¯s good, the patient condition is very critical at this moment it will be good if some of his relative will be here for them to know the possibility that might happen to him¡± One hour later Danica and Pan arrived at the hospital at that time Kellen was still in the operating room, they were informed that Kellen was been battered by a group thug and now in a critical condition. Danica¡¯s expression was frustrated and worried she said ¡°Why should this happened to my son there¡¯s so many out there why him¡± her voice is hoarse and tears falling on her cheeks. ¡°Honey, Kellen will going to be okay¡± Pan hugged and consoled ¡°He will be okay¡± he repeated silently The two wait there at the corridor sitting on the green steel chair. Meanwhile ¡­¡­¡­ ¡®I remember this feeling¡¯ Kellen opened his eyes and jolted when realize that he is falling in a blistering speed he wants to shout but no sound coming on his mouth. ¡®I think it happened to me before a dream?¡¯ he suddenly realizes when his body is still in a free fall. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please rate and leave a comment. Thank You for reading. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 4: House in the Middle Chapter 4: House in the Middle The spring has come in the entire Taranos continent trees starts to regrow its green leaves, seasonal flower starts to bloom, beast become active again and people are thankful for the ending of winter. Kadim forest remain its tranquility for the past years very few people dare to entered and it is still one of the most feared place in the continent. Kellen didn¡¯t know how long he was falling when suddenly a surge of light blinded his vision the moments he open his eyes his standing in a green lush, he sweep his eyes and saw different plants that he don¡¯t have knowledge of, scattered everywhere and everything has a faint brilliance of white light that make you think you¡¯re in a movie with a special effects. Not long a far there is a 20 feet waterfall that streams harmoniously it gives person goose bumps when seeing how beautiful it is, he wondered around and become amuse of how virgin this place is. Kellen stay a minute from one place to another feeling delighted like a child to the things that he saw. ¡®This place is amazing I know that I am dreaming but WOW! It was so refreshing¡¯ placing both of his hand at the back of his head. Kellen were looking at the strange black bird that look fierce hovering above when he notice a steep beside the waterfall, he got curious and scrutinize the place and discovered that there is a way up, you won¡¯t notice it because of the tree branches covering the path. Kellen got curious and ascend in haste when he reaches the top his heart feels like it leaps in his throat and he unconsciously give a big wide smile that almost reach his ears. ¡®Is this paradise? This place is simply enchanting¡¯ Kellen is bewildered with what he saw. He can¡¯t contain his excitement after seeing the extraordinary landscape that uncovered in his eyes. Kellen is looking at the lake in front of him peaceful and alluring surrounded by trees he stretch his sight through the slope and saw a vast forest below, he now perceive that his on a highlands. ¡°Yeaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!!!¡± Kellen yell out loud looking at the wide forest below, opening his both arms on his sides feeling the air in his skin. Kellen resume exploring the picturesque place walking leisurely enjoying the whole place, when something caught his attention it is an island in the middle of the lake he is quite interested in seeing what it looks like if it¡¯s closer. He jumps into the water but his feet only touch the surface of the lake. ¡°Hahaha. Of course this is a dream I can walk into the water¡° Kellen voice out his thought stumping his feet repeatedly sinking the sensation of walking in the water. He reaches the island and checks the big open green fields and a mini forest of the island he is somewhat ecstatic on what his seeing. ¡®Wait this place it seems familiar I think I was here before¡¯ looking at the nearby tree in front of him. ¡°I remember this tree feels like a Deja vu¡± He is trying to explicit his thoughts of this place. Kellen venture the small forest and discovered a house made of wood the design is sophisticated and subtle, what made him curious is the location of this house it is actually underneath of the two huge trees that intertwined together. He proceeds and checks the inside, lucky enough this house has no door he entered with ease. ¡®The owner of this house sure is carefree how come your house has no doors¡¯ Kellen¡¯s thought while scratching his head. The interior is also made of wood with different explicit designs there is no other materials in this place except for woods. This house looks much bigger to the inside compare when you see it outside it has five floors and each floor is so wide the intertwined trees outside is actually a part of this house the third to fifth floor are inside of that trees. Kellen is about to entered one of the room on the top floor when a loud voice echoed throughout the house ¡°YOU DARE TO CAME HERE AND INVADE MY HOME SPIRIT!¡± he was startled and become stiff. ¡°Do you want to feel pain or do you want to die¡± the man said in a cold and sharp tone Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! Kellen look at the direction of the voice and saw an ashen haired man staring at him coldly his face are calm but intimidating. Kellen shrugged his shoulder and said ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re saying sir, I am sorry for making you angry¡± ¡°You! How cocky you are entered my house¡± the ashen haired man said. ¡°Sir I really don¡¯t understand your language¡± Kellen shaking his head and giving uncertain hand gesture not understanding what the old man was saying to him, trying to communicate in a body language. ¡°Hey boy I am saying that how cocky of you entered my house¡± a voice rung through Kellen¡¯s head his eyes open wide looking at the old man. ¡°Yes I am talking to you telepathically don¡¯t be shock anymore, I made a link through your mind spiritualy so we can understand each other this way we can communicate¡± the old man said. Kellen said in apologetic voice ¡°I am sorry I just happen to discovered this amazing place and got curious that there¡¯s a house in this island¡± The ashen haired man frowned and said ¡°Just like that you would entered a house because you become curious do you want me to kill you and never have the opportunity to resurrect into being¡± ¡°I thought I was alone in this place so I entered this house to inspect knowing that there is no one who will stop me because this is only a dream, and in a dream you can do whatever you want right? I did not expect that there is actually a person here. I am truly sorry¡± bowing his head sincerely. The old man burst into laughter ¡°You think you are dreaming, look at yourself¡° the old man tosses a wooden cup at him. Kellen tried to catch the cup but it pass through his hand. ¡°See you can¡¯t even catch that cup if you are dreaming you can somehow able to touch and move things in your dream but the truth is you are not dreaming. This is a real world and right now you are a spirit¡± the old man said to him. Kellen become confuse don¡¯t know if he can trust what the ashen haired old man said to him. The thought of his spirit is out of his body having adventure to this unknown place frightened him. He is trying to feel his body and saying to himself to wake up like every person does when they were having a nightmare, but he cannot feel his body. ¡°I can see that you still have the mark on your forehead which means that you still have a body, so just go back to your body and vanish to this place immediately¡± the old man suddenly said Kellen eyes brighten and said ¡°Really, how should I do that?¡± with ecstatic voice he asked. The old man shake his head and sneer ¡°It is simple just imagine that you are merging with your body in your consciousness as easy as that you can return in your body. I would guess that you unconsciously split from your physique while you are asleep¡± Kellen scratch his head feeling stupid. ¡±Sir were talking for a while now how should I address you properly, by the way I am Kellen¡± placing his right hand to his chest. The old man looks at him indifferently and said ¡°Hennesy¡± ¡°You are lucky being able to reach this place but are you lucky enough to come out of this forest alive after you wake up, I don¡¯t know why you people keep coming to this forest even though you know it¡¯s extremely dangerous¡± Hennesy snickered while shaking his head. Kellen was confuse on what the old man said but did not pondered it any further ¡°Thank you Hennesy for your concern but I think I will be fine, I am going to do what you said now¡± Kellen standing there closing his eyes thinking deeply. Hennesy look at Kellen standing in front of the door room eyes close after a moment he turned and move to the spiral ladder to go down leaving Kellen behind that is currently standing there concentrating. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please rate and leave a comment. Thank You for reading. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 5: Unexpected Occurrence Chapter 5: Unexpected Occurrence Two men standing outside the wooden house the one with black wavy hair has well-built body and tall stature and the other one has red hair and lean body carrying a monstrous pig in his back triple his size. ¡°Asmot you take care that tyrant boar I will take some rest¡± the black haired man said The man named Asmot put down the monstrous pig to the side and said ¡°Okay boss this time we got lucky to have this tasty pig¡± patting the pig to his side. Hennesy was sitting in a racking chair in the first floor of the wooden house resting leisurely, heard the two man arrive he stand up and move to the front door with both hands at his back. ¡°It seems were going to eat a sumptuous dinner later for bringing that tyrant boar¡± a hint of smile on his face. Asmot chuckled ¡°Of course uncle Hennesy what did you expect for the strongest predator in this entire forest¡± ¡°You fibber I was the one who knock this boar and you did not even lift a muscle¡± the black haired man sneered. ¡°Boss you should not say that it was just a jest no big deal, uncle Hennesy it¡¯s just a jest!¡± Asmot said while grinning. They were talking there when suddenly Kellen came down on the spiral stair and stare at them hesitant to utter a sound he wear a troubled face. ¡°Ahem, Mr. Hennesy I think I have a problem¡± he said in low voice. The three twitches by the sudden sound and glance at the owner of the voice, Hennesy raised his brows in surprise ¡°Why are you still here didn¡¯t I tell you the way to return to your body?¡± he approach Kellen that is currently standing in the stair. ¡°You see Mr. Hennesy I did the method you said I spend all the time since you left concentrating to return in my body but nothing happens¡± Kellen lowered his shoulder resigning. As the two were talking, Asmot was looking at Kellen somewhat unsure remembering something he saw before. ¡°Boss that spirit looks familiar don¡¯t you think¡± tilting his head sideways. ¡°What are you talking it¡¯s the first time we saw that spirit¡± he said in a serious tone looking at Kellen who is the only one talking but saying a language they don¡¯t understand. Asmot cracking his thoughts to remember something and then ¡°Aha, I remember now the guy on the grove before he looks like him¡± he was nodding in satisfaction. ¡°Let¡¯s see. Hmm¡­. yeah this guy looks like him but that guy we saw looks way younger than him¡± the black haired man said indifferently. Asmot chortled ¡°Boss sometimes you are really dense you know¡± ¡°What you getting cocky now saying I am stupid¡± he frowned looking at Asmot. ¡°Hahahaha, boss you are getting sensitive you know that I was talking nonsense it is no big deal no big deal¡± Asmot raising his both arms to his shoulder. They were observing for a while now that the black haired man decides to join the conversation of the two. He started to move toward Hennesy who is currently standing in front of Kellen beside the stair. ¡°Uncle Hennesy who is this spirit that¡¯s with you¡± the black haired man suddenly asked. ¡°Oh! Acacia I nearly forgot to tell you two this guy is Kellen he entered the house a while ago I caught him in the top floor¡± It seems that the name of the black haired guy is Acacia, he is now placing his fingers in his chin and start to rub it ¡°Is that so, it is rare to see spirit in this forest, uncle Hennesy you remember the time we told you that we saw a spirit it looks like him but that time his still a juvenile¡± Hennesy nodded ¡°Are you sure about that? This guy thinks that his only dreaming and not aware that he is wondering outside his body maybe you just assuming that¡± Asmot approach Hennesy excitedly ¡°That was cool I want to try that also do you know how to do that uncle Hennesy to wonder my spirit outside my body¡± he look at Kellen in amusement. Hennesy shake his head and said ¡°If I knew that I would do that long ago but we have strong spiritual power, our spiritual attachment to our body is impregnable, maybe it can be attain through training but I am not sure. The only sure thing is when your body is in the verge of death or been damage badly that¡¯s when you can become like him¡± ¡°If you want to experience to become a spirit I can help you with that, uncle Hennesy said if you are in a verge of death right?¡± Acacia clench his both fist making a popping sound. ¡°Aw no way, you are so mean boss you want to beat me that badly?¡± Asmot sneering at Acacia move a few step backward. Kellen was baffle on the sudden occurrence that is happening Hennesy said that the only possibility for him to fail in returning to his body is that, his body has been badly damage and the possibility that he is now dying physically. He now remember that he was been hit in the head and pass out after that, the moment he open his eyes his already in this place. Which means that he cannot wake up for the time being or until he succeed in returning to his body. This is the reason why Kellen is currently standing there staring blankly at the floor, his thinking the incident that happen and why it happen to him when he already have a new hope by acquiring a job in a new company. He was thinking of his mother on what she would feel if she sees him in a hospital bed not waking up. He is just hoping that nothing serious happened to him and he can go back to his physical body soon. This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it. ¡°Kellen¡± Hennesy¡¯s voice rung through his head breaking him from spacing out, he shake his head and look at the three that is now looking at him. ¡°Tell us where you slept in this forest so we can save your body, you just pray that it is still there and still intact or else even if we help to get it but impossible to recuperate it is over for you. If my notion is correct your physical body has been attack by some beast out there and is now slowly dying out there or worst devouring it¡± Hennesy told him telepathically ¡°What do you mean Hennesy this is getting confusing¡° Kellen was puzzled not knowing if this is a joke or something. ¡°What I am saying is I will asked this two to retrieve your body in this forest it must be near here right? ¡° He sigh slightly ¡°If you¡¯re going to sleep in the wilds at least find a safe spot this is Kadim Forest where danger is omnipresence and you should know that¡± shaking his head showing a hint of annoyance and restrain. Kellen was really puzzled on what Hennesy said. ¡®What is he talking about I can¡¯t comprehend this guy anymore, Kadim Forest what is that some forest in other country is that in Asia¡¯ Kellen is cracking his thoughts feeling distressed his only thinking one thing now, that is to have an idea on what place is this that Hennesy was talking about. ¡°Hennesy I think that you are misunderstanding something, you know I did not slept in the forest nor venture here on my will. Anyway can you enlighten me what is this place and what country is this?¡± Kellen asked eagerly swaying his right hand sideways. ¡°What are you doing playing dumb?¡± Hennesy looks intensely with Kellen after seeing that he has really no clue Hennesy sigh and continued. ¡°This is Mt. Hayaman inside forest Kadim if you are asking on what country is this you are under the territory of Sarcalies Kindom one of the five kingdom ruling in Taranos continent¡± Hennesy look curiously at Kellen, thinking why Kellen didn¡¯t know this basic information about this continent that his living with it. He now starts to form a doubt in his mind. ¡®Holy Sh*t were the hell did I end up to?¡¯ Kellen is now astonished in what he heard his eyes grew bigger suddenly, his thoughts are now jumbled thinking that he is now somewhat in mysterious world that he don¡¯t have knowledge of. He became restless feeling anxious and excited at the same time. Kellen now understand why Hennesy is saying weird things. ¡°Uncle Hennesy I think you should know something¡± Kellen said hesitantly. ¡°You know I remember that I was been gang up in my way home and fall unconscious after that, and that was happen not long ago¡± Hennesy nodded slightly ¡°So that¡¯s it now I can understand, but I am sure that there is no village in this forest¡± he look at Kellen with face full of question. ¡°That¡¯s what I want to tell you and it concerned me also. It is just that I don¡¯t belong to any place in this world. The fact is, I am from a different place and that place is not a located in any part of your world. I came from a different world way far from here and it is called Earth¡± ¡°WHAT!¡± Hennesy gape his mouth looking at Kellen from head to toe astonished with what he heard. Acacia and Asmot startled with the sudden shout of Hennesy. ¡°Why did you shout Hennesy¡± Acacia asked curiously. Hennesy composing himself said ¡°It was just. I was only shocked by this spirit declaration¡± ¡°What did he say uncle Hennesy¡± this time Asmot join the conversation ¡°He said that his not an inhabitant of our world and he comes from another world different from us¡± ¡°Whaaaaat!¡± the two of them said in unison standing there dumbfounded looking at Kellen who is now staring at the floor avoiding their gaze. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please rate and leave a comment. Thank You for reading. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 6: Preposition Chapter 6: Preposition Inside the hospital¡¯s intensive care unit Danica and Pan are having a conversation with the doctor about Kellens¡¯ condition. The operation is successful and now Kellen needs to recover but that does not mean that he is already safe. Kellen is comatose and there is no exact time when he will wake up. He had a severe head injury that caused a layer in his brain to bleed resulting in him being in a vegetative state. ¡°Just like I said Mrs. Gaudi, a patient like your son that receives a severe head injury and is now in a coma, even if he wakes up I am afraid that there will be some complications. Most likely a patient in a comatose state wakes up in a week or months, but sometimes it takes a year, only time can tell when he will return to consciousness.¡± The doctor said straight to them about the possibility of this scenario, after some more explanation he left the two on the sofa. Danica seeing Kellens¡¯ current state can¡¯t help but to cry helplessly, she can¡¯t utter a word in her current stupor. She unconsciously glances at Kellen every other minute that passes. ¡°Let¡¯s just pray that he will recover faster and wake up sooner.¡± Pan consoles his wife embracing her tenderly. He feels pity for Kellen, experiencing this kind of adversity after the incident that happened to him two years ago, then he lost all the things that he worked hard for and then this - being ganged up on a group of thugs and ending up here in a hospital bed in critical condition and unconscious. ????? After Kellens revelation, Hennesy and Acacia move outside to talk about Kellen¡¯s situation after he said that he is from another world. They were still in shock about this; it is first time for them to hear that there is actually a world out there except for them. ¡°I never heard it before this, this is new for me too, that guy sure is surprising.¡± Hennesy is now enthusiastic to know the story of Kellen. ¡°What will you do with him? You said he cannot go back to his body, maybe the reason is that he belongs to a different world that is why he¡¯s having a hard time to sense his corporeal form from here.¡± Acacia said looking at the night sky sprinkled with stars. Hennesy contemplates for a while and said ¡°I am not sure about the reason for his case. For the time being I will let him stay in this place and try to help him find a way to return. In exchange for my help I will ask him to tell me a story or information about the world he lives in. At this point of my life this is the only thing that interests me; to know things that is out of my knowledge.¡± Asmot heard the two suddenly said ¡°Uncle Hennesy how can we communicate with him like you do, I want to ask him many questions too. I wonder if his world is beautiful as ours.¡± looking at Hennesy with gleaming eyes. Hennesy scratched his left ear and sighed ¡°That is the problem, if you want to communicate with him I need to translate everything you want to say, and that would be troublesome for me if I have do it every time.¡± Sure enough Hennesy can use spiritual telepathy to communicate with Kellen, while the two don¡¯t have that ability. ¡°If you can teach him our language, even if it¡¯s only basic we can somehow converse with him.¡± Acacia knows that teaching Kellen their language is the best way to communicate. ¡°The thing is if he''s willing to stay here for a while and will not wonder around. What do you think? I am also interested in his world on how it looks like¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry while he¡¯s here you can have the chance to know him and learn things from his world. I guess it will take some time for him to return because he said that he has been hit on the head and after he fell unconscious. If my understanding is correct his physical body has received a severe injury which causes his spirit to detach from his corporeal form, usually this happens when the body is not suitable anymore for a spirit to stay there and that is what they called death. But Kellen is different, he still has a body though his body is not strong enough for now to contain his spirit it only needs time to heal. Furthermore, I assume that he has a weak soul otherwise this will never happen to him, having a hard time returning.¡± Hennesy explains the possibility that Kellen current situation. Acacia nodded weakly ¡°I think you should talk to him now, just explain to him his situation and it¡¯s up to him if he is going to stay here to receive our help or not.¡± Acacia walk forward signaling Asmot to follow him. ¡°Were you two going to the hill again?¡± ¡°Not this time, we¡¯re going to hunt some Elemental Orbs in the forest. If we¡¯re lucky we can find one.¡± smiling slightly as they proceed to the door. *Sigh* ¡®These two still doing that until now. What are they thinking, seeking an orb as if they can consume it.¡¯ Hennesy enters the tree house looking for Kellen, he is thinking of a way to help him in his extraordinary situation. Kellen is looking outside the window making a gloomy face, his ecstatic feeling before he drifted to this place changed to a worried and uncertain feeling now. Kellen was thinking of the possible causes of this event himself, his family and the new job that he longed for, as he was stuck here in this unknown place helpless. He is considering that he¡¯s experiencing what they called life after death event right now, not knowing if he will be able to return to his world - to his body. If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. ¡°Kellen.¡± Kellen is deep in thought when Hennesy suddenly called him which startled him for a moment. ¡°I can see in your sullen face that you are worried. Don¡¯t feel so depressed. It¡¯s not like it is completely helpless. You know if your physical body can recover from the injury you sustained, I am sure that you can return. But you are not certain when will it happen, that is why I have a proposition for you, and I am sure it can help you.¡± He tries to console Kellen seeing him feel dejected. ¡°How? If you know a way, please help me¡± Kellens face brightens up a bit hearing Hennesy¡¯s words. ¡°Yes, I know a way, and I am more than willing to help, but I will not do it for free.¡± His look shows a hidden meaning into it. ¡°What you mean? Do you want me to pay you or something? You know that¡¯s not possible right?¡± Kellen was puzzled, dozens of questions pop into his head thinking Hennesy is up to something. ¡°You know it is not like that¡­.¡± Hennesy give a sinister smile and touches Kellen¡¯s shoulder which causes him to look at Hennesy stager and baffled. ¡°You¡­ How did you manage to touch me in my incorporeal form?¡± Hennesy laugh heartily ¡°I like the way you react. Of course I can touch you I have strong spiritual perception, I could even kill you and take your soul.¡± ¡°You are not going to do that, right?¡± He was trembling in fear, if this old man can really killed him in his incorporeal body that means he will be gone forever and will never have a chance to go back to his world. ¡°Relax I am just teasing you. Why would I do that to you? I am just showing you my capability, this is one of the benefits of spirit cultivation. If you can able to absorb spiritual energy and strengthen your spirit it will be easy for you to return to your body. You understand?¡± Kellen nodded and dropped his shoulders forward showing a sign of relief. ¡°You really scared me, I thought you are going to do it for real!¡± ¡°I can teach you to cultivate your spirit in exchange you will share your knowledge about your world. You know, I have been here for countless years and I have learned many things, I study many books like my life depends on it. Until there is nothing more worth learning in this world that interests me. But now you show up, and suddenly said that you¡¯re from different world, it intrigues me knowing that there are other planets that can sustain life like ours, at the same time it fired up my interest to know more about your world.¡± Hennesy is really fascinated by Kellen after knowing where he came from, this is a once in a lifetime chance to actually meet an entity like him. He explained his intentions to Kellen without hiding anything. Kellen thought for a while, actually Hennesy¡¯s proposition is not bad they can both learn something from each other it is like a give and take relationship. Hennesy¡¯s proposal is also at the right timing, he is actually lost right now after he failed to return to his body. Though he still doubts Hennesy, there is no harm even if he knows some knowledge about his world. After waiting for a while seeing Kellen in a deep thought once more, Hennesy finally breaks the silence ¡°So what do you think, did you come up with a decision now? It is not like you are at a disadvantage, I can also share my knowledge with you about our world. We can both broaden our horizons.¡± He is eager to know if Kellen will accept his proposition. Kellen faces Hennesy and looks at him seriously ¡°Okay I accept your proposal, it¡¯s not like I have a choice here right? And my priority right now is to get back to my world.¡± He stretches his right hand to Hennesy for a handshake. ¡°What is this?¡± Hennesy was confused with Kellen seeing his hand hanging there in front of him. ¡°This is just a formality it means that were in an agreement now.¡± Hennesy mouth curled upward and stretch his hand to do a handshake, from today onward they will be sharing their knowledge with each other. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please rate and leave a comment. Thank You for reading. Just want to Thank Ulvr for his generosity to proofread chapter 6. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 7: Cultivation Chapter 7: Cultivation Meditation is the foundation of spirit cultivation, it is needed to absorb spiritual force and also for enhancing spiritual energy. Kellen was sitting in a meditative position in the middle of the grass field, behind him is Hennesy giving instruction. ¡°Okay just clear your mind and concentrate on your surroundings, try to sense the energy flowing within and try to absorb them.¡± Hennesy seeing Kellen becoming compliant nodded in satisfaction. In Kellens deep meditative state, he can sense a few flecks of white light floating in the air like fireflies at night. He is trying to absorb them just like Hennesy instructed and it takes him a while to actually influence the flecks of white lights. He thought that it will enter him but it suddenly changed direction the instant it drew near him. He keeps repeating the process but ends up with the same results. Kellen opened his eyes and look at Hennesy. ¡°Kellen, were you able to absorb it?¡± Hennesy calm voice rang through Kellen ears. Kellen shaked his head and said ¡°I tried but it keeps on bouncing away when it draws near me.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t feel dejected, it is only normal for your first time, if you keep on trying you will finally succeed at it.¡± Hennesy immediately said. He continued ¡°Start to do it again, this time think that the energy that is flowing is only natural and nothing special.¡± Kellen closed his eyes and start to meditate again entering the deep state takes him for a while. It needs concentration and patience for this training and right now Kellen has a lot of it. He resumed his spirit cultivation and followed Hennesy instruction. Many days have passed since Kellen accepted Hennesy¡¯s offer. He is now able to cultivate his spirit and absorb spiritual energy just like Hennesy promised to teach him. Cultivating one¡¯s spirit is not hard to do, since all the people in this world can accomplish it, but attaining higher degree in strengthening someone¡¯s spirit is difficult to achieve. They categorize the strength of the person spirit by degree these are: Shade, Specter, Wraith and Phantom. According to Hennesy most of the people in this world can be considered at the Shade stage, but that doesn¡¯t mean that their spiritual capability is all the same, there are low and higher type of Shade this is also applied to the three higher degrees. The higher the spiritual degree the higher they can store spiritual force and spiritual energy, the more powerful they can become. Kellen does his training during the night following Hennesy¡¯s advice that it is best to cultivate his spirit during this time, and it can give him faster results. Hennesy said that their moon is mysterious and extraordinary, it is emitting a tremendous spiritual presence that is why people here choose to train during this period, because the spiritual energy during this time is ten times stronger than during daytime. As he looks at the light blue moon he can sense a soothing feeling. Hennesy also taught him some of their language so he is able to converse with Acacia and Asmot while he is here. Those two are always hunting beasts everyday, they only come back at noon carrying incredibly large and unusual animals that they will eat for dinner. The only dish they can make is grilled meat and nothing more. Seeing the beast that they were taking home, Kellen has the idea that this two is actually strong. What fascinates him are the different kinds of animals that the two were bringing, calling them beasts is not overrated. ????? This time Kellen is sitting at the exquisite wooden table in the rooftop, the rooftop of the house is a mini garden surrounded by the leaves of the intertwined trees you can see the whole view of the forest in this location. In front of him is Hennesy drinking a cup of fragrant tea leisurely. During this time the two exchanging knowledge about the different things in their world. ¡°So Hennesy what do you want to know this time any particular subject?¡± Kellen spoke. ¡°It is up to you everything you say is always interest me, so anything is fine.¡± As he said he put down his cup he stared at Kellen. ¡°Let me think something interesting first¡­. Okay, do you guys have a vehicle here that can fly and can transport hundreds of people at the same time?¡± Kellen asked smirking Hennesy scratch his right ear ¡°No we don¡¯t have, as my knowledge goes there is no vehicle like that, we only have flying beasts but they can only carry three to five people.¡± Hennesy is surprised by what Kellen said vehicles that can transport hundreds of people in one go sure would be an amazing thing in this world. ¡°What does it look like?¡± Kellen try to describe the airplane to him and said it is what they called that vehicle on Earth, how it was invented, and how people use this technology in warfare. Kellen looked him over ¡°That¡¯s it, as you can see we have progressed quite far through technology and there¡¯s a lot more than that.¡± You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. Hennesy is pondering for a moment he is really impressed at what Kellen said, having that kind of vehicle in this world would definitely be a revolution, suddenly his eyes lit up. ¡°So amazing, I wonder if we can do it here also. Okay, now my turn to share. Do you guys have special ability like we do?¡± Hennesy made his last sip and refilled his cup of tea. ¡°What do you mean? Like powers?¡± He asked. Hennesy snapped his hand and said ¡°Exactly!¡± ¡°Really, but I don¡¯t see you guys using it. Don¡¯t you mean your power is telepathy like what you¡¯re doing now, because that is the only thing I consider an ability? In our world this is a common fantasy for humans to have telepathy.¡± ¡°Hahaha. Only I know this skill, I was able to develop it due to desperation in my younger days. But this is nothing compared to the special ability that I am telling you about.¡± He grinned feeling satisfied knowing that Kellen has no idea what he is talking about. In his mind he doesn¡¯t want to reveal that people in this world has power, but since Kellen fascinates him about things in his world and he feels that Kellen is boasting about it to him. Hennesy wants to feel good by also boasting about this secret to Kellen. Though it is not really a secret because people here really have special abilities, but it is still rare to see a strong one. Kellen straightens his back ¡°Can you show me?¡± he asked eagerly, he wants to see what abilities Hennesy have. Hennesy laughed while shaking his head ¡°Not so fast my ability is still a secret, but I¡¯ll tell you what Asmot ability is.¡± while grinning ¡°Do you notice something about this house?¡± ¡°Yeah, this house is under the intertwined tree and everything is made of wood.¡± ¡°Good, this house is actually made by Asmot. He is an Earth-style Elmcaster, his ability is related to wood, that is why he able to form this house by merging these two big trees. But this is not an ordinary wooden house, this is reinforce with his spiritual power, so even if it¡¯s hits with a boulder it will is never going to be destroyed. And the chair you''re using is also made by him, that is why you are able to sit in that chair even though you are in your incorporeal form.¡± Now Kellen understands why he can sit in a chair while he is a spirit. He is now certain that the three have the capability to harm him if they want to. ¡°How did you guys have that kind of power?¡± He wants to know more about the origin of their power. Hennesy smile slightly ¡°In truth there are two methods to obtain an ability one, is to go to Hall of Essence in any kingdom capital academy and the other one is to absorb an Elemental Orb.¡± ¡°Once you¡¯ve reach Shade stage in spirit cultivation you can now sense Elemental Essence. This essence is what you need to gain an ability. It will fuse with your soul and change it according to the type of essence you absorb. But the problem is our spirit cannot recognize Elemental Essence as a source so we cannot absorb it no matter what. This is when we go to Hall of Essence to help our spirit recognize Elemental Essence as a source of power. ¡°The Hall of Essence is where people usually go to learn how to absorb Elemental Essence. There are three phases for this, the first process is the Moonstone exposure it is the only thing in this world that can permanently help your spirit recognize the essence as a source. The second process is Affinity test it is to determine in what element you are more suitable. The third and final process is the Essence Absorption this is where you can get your ability. ¡°That is the first method¡± Hennesy coughs. He continued ¡°The second method is absorbing an Elemental Orb. It is direct and simple, you don¡¯t need the Moonstone exposure to recognize the essence, instead the force inside the orb will directly fuse with your soul. ¡°An Elemental Orbs origin is still unknown, even now people who tried to figure out how it develops all ended up hitting a wall. An Elemental Orb is a crystallized form of elemental force, you will not know what type of essence is in there until you absorb it. ¡°An Elemental Orb is a transparent chunk of crystal that emits a dazzling light as bright as the sun when it senses a soul. This is also a challenge in searching for it because of it being transparent, it blends perfectly in any location and never reflects light if sunlight hits it. You can only notice an Elemental Orb when you are less than ten meters away, at this point you can see a faint light radiating from the stone. The light become more intense the closer you get.¡± ¡°Hall of Essence. Elemental Orb¡± Kellen muttered. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please rate and leave a comment. Thank You for reading. Just want to Thank Ulvr for his generosity to proofread chapter 7. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 8: Familiar Voice Chapter 8: Familiar Voice ¡°But acquiring it is the difficult part. You need perseverance and patience in seeking an Elemental Orb. It can be seen in many dangerous places on the entire planet, especially places where no humans have ventured before. If you can acquire one, you¡¯re definitely lucky. You can absorb it and you will gain a rare ability without fail or you can sell it for a sumptuous amount of fortune.¡± Hennesy takes another sip of his fragrant tea. Unlike absorbing normal essence that will give you common power, Elemental Orb can give you rare ability that the world would fear. That¡¯s why many people desire to have these Orbs. You can only absorb its power if your soul is not fused with any elemental style. People who want stronger powers tend to hunt Elemental Orbs or buy one through the black market. These are commonly nobles and royalty, they don¡¯t usually go into the Hall of Essence, instead they make an expedition to acquire Elemental Orbs for themselves or just buy one at a drooling price. There are some people who cannot recognize Elemental Essence even when they were exposed to Moonstone and they also cannot absorb the Elemental Orb which is known as the simple way to gain power. These people are called Forsaken though they cannot absorb an essence they are considered gifted in one thing, and that is spirit cultivation. They can train three times faster than normal people in strengthening their spirit and their spiritual energy capacity is almost double unlike any other people. Most Forsaken reach Wraith stage and they are known as strong ones. All Forsaken trained physically, most of them are swordmasters, warriors, and berserkers. Some wield bows some rely on brute strength. Forsaken don¡¯t have spiritual power but their spiritual energy is considered abundant applying it in their body can boost their physical strength by folds. ¡°Amazing¡± this is the only word that Kellen is able to breath after Hennesy finishes his explanation, he¡¯s like a child that is fascinated with the bedtime story that his mother read to him. ¡°So are you satisfied? Now tell me more about your world.¡± Hennesy raised his brows asking Kellen to share his knowledge. ¡°Okay, do you guys have ¡­.¡± The two keep chatting until Acacia and Asmot returned home from hunting as usual they brought a monstrous size animal. He know that these two are strong but never imagined that Asmot has that kind of ability, he cannot help but be amused once more with this world. ????? Acacia jump from first floor up to the rooftop, Kellen is not surprised after seeing this for third time. But the first time he saw this he was really stunned, Hennesy explained that this is the effect of exerting spiritual energy through your physical body. Kellen was stirred and felt delighted with hearing this since he is learning how to cultivate his spirit. He is thinking if he can do it on Earth he will become superhuman, only if he finally succeeded in returning. Acacia rub his nose with his index finger and said ¡°I knew that you two are here again, so I came to check, so Hennesy how¡¯s our guess doing?¡± ¡°So far so good, not long ago were sharing knowledge about each other¡¯s world now I am teaching him our language. What did you catch today?¡± Hennesy stand up and looked below to see the beast that Acacia and Asmot procured. ¡°Hornhound, that beast got a little cocky attacking us so he will become our dinner later.¡± Acacia suddenly said snorting picking his nose. ¡°We will go to the hill Hennesy, so I¡¯ll be leaving now. Again.¡± Acacia wave his hand and jump down. Hennesy just nodded and return to his seat to resume his business with Kellen he is occupied the whole day guiding Kellen. That day Acacia and Asmot returned home at nightfall and they ate dinner together which is grilled Hornhound. In the blink of an eye one year has passed since Kellens spirit drifted to this world, he start his everyday routine diligently sharing his knowledge with Hennesy during the day, sometimes Acacia would join them and feeling amused every time he listens to Kellens stories about things you can see on Earth. He can now speak their language but cannot express his thoughts so well when he tries to talk with the three using their language so sometimes Hennesy will translate what he want to say. Kellen is now familiar with the three he became closer with Acacia, when Acacia often joined them during the time he was telling things about the Earth. He discovered that Asmot is the apprentice of Acacia in sculpting since Asmot can control the wood he asked Acacia to teach him how to wood curve and also how to make good designs. Hennesy is the closest to Kellen, they are like brothers now, he helps Kellen to understand more about their world and also giving him pointers on how to cultivate his spirit better. He also encourages Kellen not to give up when seeing him having a hard time. Stolen novel; please report. During nightfall Kellen would spend his time cultivating his spirit until the sun spreads its brilliance throughout the land. Every ten days he will spend the whole day concentrating on sensing his corporeal body. He is really patient in doing this task, but in his six months here he cannot help to feel like giving up when he failed again in returning to his body. This time Kellen is concentrating meekly, he is somehow feeling frustrated thinking that he''s been here for one year but nothing major happened with his efforts to return. Even if he already knows how to absorb spiritual energy, the result is always the same. This time he is sitting below the three with legs crossed he is as serene as water. In his deep consciousness he saw nothing but pitched black. He is walking endlessly trying to search for something but he himself doesn¡¯t know what he is searching for. Kellen keeps on doing this every time, he''s concentrating because something within him keeps on telling him to walk. In the midst of nowhere in the dark he heard a familiar voice. ¡°Mommy, Daddy was calling you.He said that he will tell you something.¡± he distinguished a voice of a girl. ¡°Okay honey, you stay here and accompany your big brother for a while, I will be back soon.¡± The women left the room reluctantly. Kellen already had an idea when he first heard the voice of the little girl, and now he became certain after hearing the next voice that spoke. It belongs to his mother and he will never forget it even though he¡¯s become blind. Right now Kellen cannot contain his excitement. Finally after waiting for one year here in this world, doing continuous training his spirit and rigorous effort to return to his world there shows some results. She nodded and replied with an energetic voice ¡°Okay, no problem¡± ¡°Hi! Big brother mommy told me to watch over you. She said that I should talk to you so you will never feel bored.¡± ¡°You know I am going to school now, and my teacher says that I am brilliant.¡± she giggled. ¡°I made a friend and she¡¯s cute like me her name is Cindy we sit in the same row and we talk a lot. ¡°Brother, you are like the girl in the story Sleeping Beauty mommy read, she is also sleep long like you. ¡°But you¡¯re a boy so you must be Sleeping Handsome. ¡°I wonder when you will wake up. I miss you.¡± ¡°¡­.¡± She keeps on talking to Kellen until his mother returned. Kellen¡¯s heart was filled with joy, hearing his little sister¡¯s voice was like music to his ears. After listening to his sisters stories he seems want to touch and hug her like before. His eyes become reddened and his feeling warmth in his heart. Right now he doesn¡¯t know if he wants to cry or laugh. He remembered the last time he met his family it was one of his best days, they had a good moments together. That would be the start to rise again and to have a new life if those bastards did not batter him. He cannot refrain to curse them. In a good side this is a refreshing feeling for Kellen since he got here. Hearing his mother and sister voices is already a good thing even though he is not successful in returning to his body which is his priority, this is considered to be a good progress to his effort. After a moment of listening Kellen was halted when he felt that he is exhausted, the voice had gone and he realized that he¡¯s standing in the middle of something bright in the dark. It is like the moon''s ray during the night. He doesn¡¯t know when it shined here but it looks like a spot, maybe a marking in his consciousness. Kellen leaves the beam and moments later he is under the tree where he meditated. Kellen¡¯s mouth curled upward ¡°Hahaha, finally there come some results.¡± He tried not to cry, but tears falls down his cheeks. ¡°I should work harder.¡± Kellen muttered to himself with his renewed strength to continue forward. That dawn Kellen took a stroll to the lake and starting to reminisce, his life on Earth before the incident. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please rate and leave a comment. Thank You for reading. Proofread by Ulvr --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 9: Joining the hunt Authors Note: It''s been a while since I last updated this fiction so I am going to post some chapter today hopefully I can release 2-3 chapter''s a week. Enjoy! Reading. Feel free to comment and I appreciate some constructive criticism. ================================================================================= Chapter 9: Joining the hunt Inside the Gaudi¡¯s residence Pan was sitting in his office in front of him is his wife Danica. Three years have passed since the incident they transfer Kellen to their house after to make sure that he is stable and if it is safe for him to move from another location. They hired private nurses to attend to Kellen and also to lessen the expenses from hospital bills, even though they have a business it is still too much for them to spend for hospital bills so they decided to continue the medication in their house. They placed Kellen in one of the vacant rooms and he was being taken care of by his mother and two attending nurses, one for the day shift and one for night shift. ¡°Dear, I will have a business trip this weekend I won¡¯t be home for three days. I just want to remind you to watch yourself, it would not be good if you also become sick.¡± Pan voiced his concern. She smiled slightly ¡°I know. Thank you.¡± ¡°It¡¯s already been three years, but Kellen has not regained consciousness, if you keep doing this who knows, you might become sick. I¡®m telling you to give yourself a break, I just want you to do things moderately, I just want you to take care of yourself also.¡° He approached Danica and held her hands. ¡°But you know that I¡¯m just worried about my son, he''s been like that for three years now I can¡¯t help but to think when will he become conscious. I just want to be there when he open his eyes, I just want to take care of him until that time!¡± Danica¡¯s eyes are reddening holding her tears she silently look down avoiding to see the face of his husband. It is true that she spends most of her time taking care of Kellen, that she is neglecting most of her duties to her new family. The first time she saw Kellen in hospital bed with all those machines that connected to her son, it broke her heart. Danica promised that she will take care of her son until he wakes up. But she never expect that it would take this long, she thought that it will take only a month, but when the months turned into a year, her fear started to form. Fear that her son will never wake up again. That is why she wants to spend most of her time taking care of Kellen. ¡°Dear the reason I insist to transfer Kellen here is so you can see him anytime you want. You also have a family, don¡¯t just always stay here. So please can you consider giving yourself a rest, we hired two nurses to attend to him let them do their job and you just need to look at him. If your son woke up and see¡¯s you, see how you look now he would think that you¡¯re his grandma.¡± Pan tried to make her smile so he teases her. Danica is contemplating for a while. There is a long silence in the room. ¡°I am sorry.¡± Danica finally spoke. Pan pulled her close and give her a tender hug, he didn¡¯t say anything more. He knows that what he wants to convey already reached Danica . After their conversation Danica realized that she¡¯s been neglecting her duties to her family. That thanks to Pan for waking her up from her daze until now. She promises to change things now, she has spent the last three years thinking about Kellen and it is time for her to accept the current situation and continue on her life as always like before the incident. Danica returned to Kellen¡¯s room she saw her daughter telling stories to her brother. She smiled seeing this site, her two children she loves the most in this world. ¡°Honey, did you take care of your brother?¡± She places her hand on Lissy¡¯s head. She nodded while smiling and said ¡°Yup, I am talking to him like you said before. I tell big brother that I go to school now.¡± ¡°Good girl. Let¡¯s go honey, I will accompany you in bed tonight, mommy will go to sleep beside you.¡± ¡°Really!¡± She hugged her mother and kissed her on the cheek while standing in the chair. Danica called the nurse to take care of Kellen, they leave the room and go to Lissy¡¯s bedroom. She promises to herself that today she will continue her life and become strong for her new family and for Kellen. ????? ¡°Kellen you look happy did something happen?¡± Hennesy after seeing Kellen¡¯s mode today suddenly asked. Kellen walking beside Hennesy said ¡°Yeah, this is first time for me. I been able to hear the voices of my mother and sister, it seems that they were taking care of me in the past one year.¡± This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Kellen thought that it is only one year had passed since the incident. While in truth he''s been in a coma for three years already, he doesn¡¯t know that the flow of time here is slower than on Earth. ¡°That¡¯s good, even though you did not succeed in returning to your world, you have been able to gain some progress. Not bad, this is considered to be good already. Come to look at it, your body is not yet healed. I think the guys who beat you wanted you dead!¡± Hennesy lifts his brow and move his head slightly downward. ¡°Those assholes! If I return I will get my revenge big-time!¡± Kellen cannot keep cursing the people who beaten him to death and responsible why he is here. ¡°Hennesy, why is that it only lasted for a short period of time after that I was feeling exhausted already?¡± Kellen asked. ¡°That is given considering you still have a weak spirit and your spiritual energy is not sufficient to last long after you find the right way to your body. I think right now you only have access to your hearing but if you able to continue training your spirit and breakthrough into the Specter class you might able to access your senses, or luckily you can return completely!¡± Hennesy give him the explanation that he wants to hear. The two was taking a stroll on the island when suddenly Asmot shouts at them. ¡°HEY!¡± The two congruently look at him. ¡°Wait for us.¡± Asmot is making haste approaching them and behind him is Acacia who is walking leisurely. ¡°Good Morning, were you guys going to hunt now?¡± Kellen is the first one to greet. ¡°Yup! Were you two going?¡± Asmot say with bubbly voice. ¡°Were just taking a stroll and enjoying the morning dew¡± He said with satisfied face. ¡°Did you know that he made big progress?¡± Hennesy sharing the good news about Kellen¡¯s progress. ¡°Really? Well brother good for you. Hey boss, Kellen made progress!¡± shouting from behind him is Acacia who is still walking towards them. ¡°Yeah, sort of, I just happened to hear the voice of my family in my world through my consciousness even I can¡¯t believe that it is possible. It is like a telephone¡± Kellen laughed. ¡°Congrats if you keep on training your spirit you can able to reach your corporeal body sometime soon.¡± This time Acacia congratulate him after hearing the news. ¡°Yeah, your rate of training is considered to be fast but not as fast as me!¡± Asmot is boasting about himself sneering at Kellen. Acacia let out a low snort. ¡°Don¡¯t mock him what are saying fast you have been stuck in Specter class for ten years already, and didn¡¯t have a breakthrough. You should have some shame!¡± ¡°Boss you''re ruining my plan. Look, Kellen, don¡¯t listen to boss I was just relaxing in those ten years but if I got super serious I would breakthrough in just a year and be at peak of Wraith in another three!¡± Asmot said drumming his chest feeling proud. Hennesy and Acacia both shake their head with a hint of smile, ¡°Kellen since you made a progress why don¡¯t we celebrate later, but after that how about we will reward you. You once said that you like to know what is in the forest and what it looks like right. How about you accompany us from hunting this time?¡± ¡°Yeah, it would be fun for you!¡± Asmot encourage him. ¡°Is it safe for me? Because you know that you guys have the ability to kill a spirit, what if those beast can do that also. You know I am just being logical here, I don¡¯t want to be sorry in the end. I don¡¯t want to jeopardize my life.¡± Kellen is somewhat concerned with this idea. It is true that he wants to see things outside of this mountain range but the danger is there also. ¡°Don¡¯t worry brother Kellen as long as you are with us nothing can harm you in anyway¡± Asmot flex his right arm showing his lean muscle. ¡°Be at ease, as long as there is no ethereal beast nothing can actually kill you. Normal beast cannot even touch a spirit like you so relax. This is also a good experience to you, and if you return to your world you will remember how awesome our world is. But I really like the airplane in your world, imagine if that machine can fly in our sky. I would like to see the awe on the faces of the people here.¡± Acacia reassuring Kellen that everything is fine. Kellen looked at Hennesy beside him with a question in his eyes. He trusts Hennesy so he wants his opinion. Chapter 10: Forest of Kadim Chapter 10: Forest of Kadim Hennesy give him a nod and say ¡°you don¡¯t need to worry in this forest nothing is more dangerous than this two here¡± With the ability user Asmot beside him and Acacia who is an expert swordsman there is really nothing to fear. Aside from the three of them, there are only beasts in this forest. ¡°I have to explain some matters to Hennesy.¡± Acacia shrugged Asmot shoulder signaling to accompany Kellen for a while. Hennesy approach Acacia they move a quite a distant and start their conversation. ¡®Strange what are they talking about to go that far?¡¯ Kellen muttered seeing the two walk approximately a hundred meters from them. ¡°Look at those two sharing some secret, brother Kellen would you eavesdrops on them?¡± Asmot cast a sly smile. ¡±I know you have good hearing, right?¡± Kellen stare at him ¡°Okay¡± he is trying to understand what the two are talking but he cannot distinguish the language they were uttering. He frowned and pondered for a while, but the language they were using is foreign to him. ¡°Asmot how many language can you guys speak?¡± he asked. ¡°I only know one language, and that is Seradiam which we¡¯re using right now and most people use it even in other continents.¡± ¡°Weird they were talking a language I don¡¯t understand, well anyway I won¡¯t eavesdrop anymore now that I can¡¯t comprehend their conversation.¡± ¡°Those two are talking in a language that we don¡¯t know, so even if you eavesdrop you will not understand. I think that they were discussing a big secret, something that is dark, or maybe they were talking about their women that they have fun with.¡± Asmot was nodding convincing himself that it is the reason for the two talking secretly in unknown dialect. Asmot smirk and stare at Kellen. ¡°Kellen did you have a girlfriend before, tell me?¡± Asmot eyes are beaming, Kellen sigh ¡°Why are you suddenly asking that, of course I had one before.¡± ¡°I am so envious, how many?¡± He eagerly asked. Kellen doesn¡¯t know why he is so interested but he answered ¡°Three, the last one left me when I got fired and became broke¡± Saying this Kellen cannot help but sigh in his heart, his last girlfriend of 5 years is his true love, but who would have thought that she is going to leave him when he''s in a pinch. You can¡¯t really tell if the people really love you or are sincere with you until you encounter difficulties. ¡°Me, I don¡¯t have girls since I was here in this forest when I was ten, but you know I¡¯ll tell you a secret, the boss is in a relationship!¡± Asmot made an evil smile. Kellen was in awe ¡°With whom, I don¡¯t see any girl here!¡± he gape realizing something. ¡°Did you mean?¡± he was thinking that Acacia and Hennesy are in a relationship. ¡°Yeah! With his hands!¡± Asmot laughed so hard holding his stomach. Kellen face sunk he don¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry with what Asmot said, trying to crack a joke that is not funny to him. ¡°What? You¡¯re not laughing you don¡¯t get it? How boring.¡± Asmot twisted his lips but he continues to laugh with his jest. Kellen forcefully smiled thinking that Asmot is doing this to have some fun with him. Acacia and Hennesy finished their conversation and approach the two near the lake. ¡°So are you ready Kellen, we¡¯re having an adventure now!¡± Acacia asked. Kellen nodded ¡°Please take care of me!¡± Asmot shrugged his shoulder ¡°Let¡¯s rock!¡± The three walk down the mountain with ease since Kellen can pass through anything except the things that are made by spiritual power, or strong spirit like people who cultivate their spirit. He is able to catch up with the two who adjust their pace for Kellen. ????? In the dense forest Kellen feels tense and happy. Finally he will be able to experience the euphoria of hunting. Even if this time he will only observe and will not personally be involved in killing, it''s still exhilarating for him. Kellen takes his time appreciating the scenery inside the forest, unlike what Hennesy told him that this place is deadly and full of dangers he cannot see any hint of that description. In his eyes this place is like a hidden beauty of this world. There are many unique kinds of creatures, both big and small. Birds are flying everywhere you can hear the sound of various animals in the area, and there is a river which the water came from Mt. Hayaman. If anyone saw this, the first thing he/she will utter is ¡®Wow¡¯ because this place is incredibly awe-inspiring. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. Asmot shrugged Kellen¡¯s shoulder ¡°Brother Kellen how was it? This area of the forest is beautiful, right!¡± ¡°Yeah, it looks so peaceful here. It is not like what you guys said to me before, that this place is dangerous for people.¡± Kellen still letting his eyes wander around the surroundings before him. Asmot chuckled ¡°Indeed, because this part of the forest is like a protected spot for a particular reason even we don¡¯t know why the beasts don¡¯t come around here near Mt. Hayaman. What we¡¯re talking about is the place five kilometers away from Mt. Hayaman, that is when you will see the true face of the Kadim Forest, that this continent is most afraid of!¡± Asmot face showed confidence. Acacia is currently listening to the two his face is serene and has a proud look when he was walking behind them. ¡°Asmot is right, the real danger is five kilometers away from Mt. Hayaman. Beasts are afraid approaching the center of this forest, the first time I reached this place even I was baffled too.¡± Acacia suddenly said. Asmot nodded in what Acacia said in agreement. ¡°When I met Hennesy for the first time in Mt. Hayaman I asked him about this and he doesn¡¯t give me any explanation. That is why I deduce that this place is sacred, or you can say a sanctuary for something extraordinary.¡± Acacia clenched his jaw. Hennesy is the first person who ventured and reached the center of this forest many decades ago or even a hundred years ago. No one knows, even Asmot and Acacia who live with him for many decades didn¡¯t know how old he is or how long he lived in that mountain. Hennesy is very secretive for a particular reason, but they do not dislike him. Despite of his reserved and strict appearance he is benign and sympathetic within. ¡°Why you didn¡¯t bother asking him again maybe this time he will tell you?¡± Kellen is still curious and he wants to drain more information from Acacia. Acacia shake his head insignificantly ¡°I won¡¯t. Everyone has their own secret and Hennesy is no exception, even if he treats us like his own family. If he wants to tell us, he will tell us, otherwise there is a reason behind it that he doesn¡¯t want us to bother or be involved.¡± ¡°Right I don¡¯t even care if uncle will never want us to know his secret.¡± Asmot said indifferently. Kellen doesn¡¯t have a choice but to agree, it is true that he doesn¡¯t need to meddle any further, if Hennesy wants to tell him about this matter, he will personally tell him. ¡°There was one time he told me that there are four guardians of this forest, do you guys have knowledge of that?¡± This information was told to him by Hennesy, that there are four protectors of this forest that prevent people reaching this place. Asmot chuckled ¡°We do know them and we also know who their master is.¡± ¡°Who, Hennesy only told me about the four but he never told me that they have a master¡± Kellen immediately ask catching up to Asmot that is currently leading the way. Asmot stop for a while and ¡°It is none other than uncle Hennesy!¡± ¡°Woosh¡± Acacia is in front of them in an instant trying to hold Asmot mouth but he already said it. Acacia gave Asmot a glare and hit him in his head. ¡°You idiot, Hennesy choose not to tell him but you let the cat out of the bag, are you really stupid in the head!?¡± staring at Asmot who is scratching his head right now. Acacia stare at Kellen and said ¡°Just don¡¯t say to Hennesy that you already know the master of the four guardians is!¡± Kellen was perplexed by Acacia¡¯s fuss, in his mind is that really trivial? What if he knows the master of the four guardians, does it signify anything, or does it change something. In the end Kellen only gave a meek nod to Acacia. According to Hennesy the four guardians are the one who is responsible for why Kadim Forest is one of the most dangerous places on the entire continent of Taranos. They are Burt of the North, Amihan of the East, Tosmia of the South, and Erebus of the West. All of them have the ability to kill countless humans or even powerful ability users like them. They have their own territory to protect and prevent any intruder passing and reaching the center, which is Mt. Hayaman. People don¡¯t know they exist the only thing they know is Kadim Forest is dangerous and unpredictable. Chapter 11: The Hill Chapter 11: The Hill The three passed the five kilometer mark safe zone they are now in the perilous part of forest which a lot of beast inhabitant reside and also dangerous terrain and plants. ¡°Here we are, Kellen welcome to the real danger but this is nothing on you since you can pass through in almost everything here¡± Acacia suddenly said. ¡°Yup, there is no ability users here and there are no other humans here so it is super safe for you a spirit. The only thing you need to do is watch us and relax¡± Asmot give him thumbs up. They keep on walking they can now see some beast from afar not noticing them. Kellen is the one who are more in cautious and giving the two a warning since all of his senses are sharp. He notice that Acacia has no weapon knowing that he is a swordmaster. ¡°Acacia where is your weapon?¡± ¡°Here¡± Acacia pulled a seven inch blue dagger in his leather vest it has a plain design but the most enticing to it is emitting a cold aura that can give you a shiver. Kellen was stupefied ¡°Is that it I thought you¡¯re a swordmaster where is your sword?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t bring it because it is not necessary in fact this dagger is already enough to kill a beast. I don¡¯t want to have a ground meat as a dinner¡± Acacia and Asmot both laughed. Kellen remained silent he thought that he will see Acacia in action since Hennesy said that his a skilled swordmaster and considered to be in the top in the entire continent. Suddenly they felt a tremor on the ground. ¡°Be careful Asmot¡± Acacia warned. He became cautious now. ¡°Dug* Dug*¡± Two consecutive fast hit greeted them from behind. Luckily Asmot and Acacia are very agile to dodge them in time and it hit the trees in front of them that collapse in an instant. Kellen froze from the spot he doesn¡¯t notice that there is already a beast behind them even though he have a good senses. The two trees smash like nothing Acacia ordered Asmot to handle the beast. ¡°Wow this fella really is daring to think that he will surprise attacks us¡± Asmot stretch his arms then jump from a nearby tree. In front of them is an eight feet red frog that has big and long legs. It has spike in his back and it looks really frightening. The beast opens its mouth and stretches its expandable tongue to hit Asmot who is currently on top of the tree. ¡°*Squash *Crack *Crack¡± the tree was split in half Asmot jump on the next tree. ¡®What a strong tongue¡¯ Kellen whispered still watching Asmot confronting the frog beast. ¡°Asmot be careful this Terra Frog is adult one it can knock you really hard¡± Acacia shouted while he is observing the surrounding. Asmot snigger ¡°Kellen watch and learn this forest is my domain and in my domain no one can defeat me¡± Asmot stretched his left arm and the nearby tree beside him start to form a fist with another sway of his arm the tree strike a fast punch on the beast face and was been stop by the beast tongue. ¡°Not bad now eat another one¡± Kellen control the trees in his surrounding made a continuous attack on the beast. At the same time Acacia was heedful in his environment his waiting for something he was expecting. Not long after another tongue has shown up targeting Asmot on top of the tree. Asmot is busy taking care of his prey and did not notice the incoming danger in his back. ¡°Watch out¡± Kellen shouted in shock. ¡°Swoosh¡± Acacia charges in the blink of an eye he already catch the tongue of another Terra Frog with color teal skin and silver eyes. Tugging with Acacia the frog swung its head trying to outbalance its opponent but Acacia already pulled his blue dagger and made a swift cut leaving the frog in agony from its gash tongue. ¡°What a sneaky guy, boss thanks¡± Asmot said still bombarding the Terra Frog with his attack, enjoying himself like a child playing with water. ¡°As I anticipated this beast has companion¡± Acacia muttered throwing the severe tongue in his hand. Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. Acacia notice that the previous attack was made by two beast that is why he let Asmot handle the first one that shown up and he waited for this moment to intercept the attack of the other one that is hiding. ¡°*Tremor *Tremor¡± The ground is trembling repeatedly as the shaking was becoming intense approaching their location. A fifteen feet tall green Terra Frog with burly body landed behind Asmot destroying the terrain where it lands. Made Asmot fall from its location and stumble a few meters the beast rapidly smash him in the ground with a tremendous force. Asmot cast his ability. ¡®Livingwood Protector¡¯ Instantly form a shield that is reinforced with spiritual energy and absorb more of the impact. The Terra Frog attack leaves a big crater in the ground and in the center is wooden cocoon shield covering Asmot. ¡°Yet another one and it is two times bigger on the red one¡± Kellen said to himself he cannot help but to felt nervous for Acacia and Asmot but seeing the face of the two especially Asmot who already stand up and there is a hint of happiness in his eyes, he is actually enjoying this. The beast attack again not giving a chance for him to retaliate after he standup but Asmot already use his ability ¡®Nature¡¯s Vine¡¯ and the fallen tree surrounding the beast started to deform and form into a countless vines entangling the Terra Frog. ¡°You dare to move¡± he stared at the beast struggling to break free on the trees that pinning him which is rooted on the ground. ¡°Boss this guy hurt my back why they only attack me? Am I the only one visible here? This is unfair¡± Asmot complained while dusting his brown robe. Acacia only lift both of his shoulder. ¡°Boss how about you kill the little one already and I handle the other one then this big fella is the finale¡± Asmot suggested. Acacia look at him calmly and replied ¡°No need we only need the big one it is already enough for three days meal¡± Acacia releases a frightening presence that made the three beasts cowers in fear even Kellen felt a sudden chill in this imposing aura. The swollen face of the Terra Frog that Asmot smash twitch and it was panicking sensing the danger in front of him. Same with the other two, the teal one mustered up its strength and start to jump away from them and the red one follow its lead and jump away in different direction. Acacia did not bother chasing them because this is his intention to make them run and leave only the one in front of them that is currently bind. The big one finally broke free from the continuous struggle and start to jump away also but Acacia start to move. ¡°Not so fast!¡± Acacia leap fiercely in front of the beast and strike its head with his fist in the air leaving the frog collapse in the ground convulsing until it stop on moving. ¡°Instant kill! so strong with only his fist power¡± Kellen mouth was wide open awe with what he saw, he have a glimpse of what this two can do. ¡°So cool, but that thing is that even delicious¡± Kellen look at the dead frog can¡¯t keep thinking that it tastes awful because of the appearance. Asmot immediately said ¡°It tastes magnificent especially when grilled¡± He continued ¡°Did you see how awesome my ability is, if I did not ensnare this beast boss cannot killed it I am sure¡± ¡°Since you¡¯re awesome why not carry this beast also to double your awesomeness¡± Acacia mock him. Asmot scratch his head ¡°Boss? Sigh as usual I am the loot carrier¡± ¡°Let¡¯s go to the safe zone first we might attract some beast in the area smelling this Terra Frog blood I don¡¯t want to waste time here anymore¡± Acacia walk back beside him is Kellen and the one behind is Asmot carrying the dead beast that is placed in a plane wood on top of his head. The three arrive at the perimeter of the safe zone of Kadim forest they stop for a while to drink in the nearby river. Chapter 12: Acacias Past Part 1 Chapter 12: Acacia''s Past Part 1 ¡°Since we¡¯re already here and we are near the hill, let¡¯s pay a visit there¡± Acacia suggested. ¡°Okay.¡± Asmot put down the beast. Kellen was silent, but deep within he is excited to see what that hill looks like. He knows that Acacia and Asmot always go to that hill to visit something but he''s not sure what is it. Now that they are planning to go there he is somewhat excited. ¡°Asmot leave the beast here so you will not exhaust your energy.¡± Acacia started to walk leading the way. Asmot made a box using his ability and place the beast inside of it. On their way Kellen notice various fruits and herbs but Acacia and Asmot didn¡¯t pay attention to them. He wants to taste the fruit of this world, but that¡¯s not possible for him so the only thing he can do is to stare and observe. They pass the grove and Kellen saw a lush field of flowers of different colors dancing in the breeze of a gentle wind. ¡°What a view! I only saw this in a movie in my world. But why there is no hill here?¡± Kellen asked. Asmot immediately said ¡°You will see it soon.¡± Acacia was in front of the two, leading the group and is silent the whole time. The three continue to move forward, when they about to reach the edge of the flower fields, the view of hilltop¡¯s pop up one after another there are dozens of hill in this area. ¡°Surprised? Boss¡¯s hill is right there¡± Asmot point the biggest hill at the side not far away from them¡± The three move down and walk in the valley, there are many unique creature here an antelope looking animal with fluffy fur skin are everywhere. Horse type animals with two big horns in its head and look very sturdy galloping not far ahead on them. Smell of grass mix with fresh air makes you think that you¡¯re in countryside relaxing and enjoying. These animals here are not categorize as beast since they don¡¯t attack humans and are not aggressive to them. They can be tamed and domesticated, sometimes they use them as livestock. Kellen was so captivated in the surroundings, everything in this world is new to him and he cannot keep on admiring this creature and picturesque scenery. ¡°Look at those animals!¡± pointing at the nearby creature chomping a fruit ¡°What do you call them?¡± Kellen asked while there walking. Asmot look at Kellen and gaze on what his pointing ¡°That little guy is Senquirrel their diet is that SenSen fruit that grows on rock and that one is Kalkam their meat was quite good and their milk was so sweet¡± pointing at the big black four legs creature eating grass. ¡°This place has a good diversity.¡± Kellen mutter looking at the animals in their way. They climb the big hill and reach the top with ease. There is small house on the middle of the hill that can accommodate two people and there is also a well outside of it. What caught Kellen¡¯s attention is the big grey stone nearby where Acacia was standing. Kellen approach and sees names carved in the stone. Kellen was curious and asked ¡°Who are the two people written on the stone?¡± ¡°They are boss¡¯s family¡± ¡°What happen to them?¡± ¡°I am afraid I cannot tell you, I don¡¯t want boss to get mad at me.¡± Asmot is not in his usual demeanor this time he is careful spouting unnecessary words. ¡°Sorry.¡± Kellen nodded and remain silent. He doesn¡¯t need to meddle in someone''s personal life. He is already lucky to be able to come to this place. ¡°It¡¯s okay, you can tell him it is not like Kellen is stranger to us anymore.¡± Acacia spoke, his tone is calm. ¡°But boss, we¡¯ve only known him for a year, what if he tells it to someone and that someone will...¡± ¡°Ha Ha Ha!¡± Asmot was interrupted by Acacia guffaw. ¡°Asmot your imagination is really wide. Kellen is only a spirit and he don¡¯t know anyone in this world except from us now tell me to whom can he tell it to?¡± Acacia look at Asmot with a mocking smile. ¡®It is not like I still have a family to hide and protect to¡¯ Acacia said to himself. ¡°That is...¡± Asmot look a far feeling embarrassed all of a sudden. ¡°See no one, just considered it as thanks to Kellen from telling us amazing things about his world, and from keeping us from boredom. In fact it seems that we have known Kellen for a long time since he already told us his entire life, isn¡¯t it?¡± ¡°Well I commend you for being sensitive this time Asmot, sometimes you act using your brain but most of the time it seems you don¡¯t have it!¡± Acacia chuckled. Asmot touch his nose for no reason and chuckled awkwardly looking at Kellen. ¡°Okay, Kellen don¡¯t be offended by me that I acted that way, I was being careful I just want to protect sister Nilan and boss¡¯s history.¡± Asmot shrugged his shoulder and sigh. Kellen look at them and said ¡°Don¡¯t worry I understand you don¡¯t need to tell me I just only become curious with this sudden circumstances, I never thought that Acacia had his family here before in this isolated place.¡± ¡°Well, since boss already said that I can tell you and he also trusted you, then give me the privilege to tell their beautiful story!¡± Asmot attitude change instantly. ¡°. . .¡± He continued ¡°Please leave me here for a while, you can continue your conversation inside the house.¡± Acacia stood in front of the big stone that is surrounded with various type of flowers. Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. Kellen and Asmot moved inside, it was a small house but comfortable and neat inside, it was made of rattan and the roof was dried stem of a tree. Asmot sat on the chair and rest for a while seeing Kellen standing Asmot understand and he made a chair with his ability and offer it to Kellen. ¡°Well, where should I start?¡± ¡°Up to you I am just a listener this time.¡± ¡°Hhmmm? Let¡¯s start the story fifteen years ago, when boss¡¯s continent was in chaos due to his brothers doing!¡± ¡°Acacia belonged to a royal clan, his brother Ymiron is the ruler of Feilan Empire one of the two empires of Kilintor continent. His brother was cruel and ambitious he wants to expand his territory and eradicate Sarcan Empire which is much stronger and larger than them in terms of territory and army. ¡°Acacia opposed this plan of his brother¡¯s and decided not to participate. The only reason for this is related to Sarcan Empire princess Nilan. Acacia and Nilan had a secret relationship and he will not allow anything bad happens to her. At that time he was the commanding Teserya the highest rank of military officer in Feilan army. ¡°His brother was so furious that he sentenced Acacia to imprisonment, until he changed his mind to lead their army to a war of conquest against the Sarcan Empire. But Acacia¡¯s decision would not falter and he never agreed to his brother¡¯s demand. ¡°Ymiron was only daring because of Acacia. He knows that Acacia¡¯s strength was formidable and he is vital in waging a war against the Sarcan Empire, but what he didn¡¯t expect is that Acacia will oppose him and refuse to lead the Feilan army. Ymiron had no choice, since he cannot persuade Acacia he formed an alliance with the smaller kingdoms and promised them that if they succeeded in winning against the Sarcan Empire he will gave them territories according to their contribution. ¡°Feilan Empire and five other kingdoms joined forces with two million men consisting of elite swordmasters, strong Elmcasters and many ordinary rank soldiers. They outnumbered the Sarcan Empire¡¯s forces by one-third. The war kept on going for two months without Acacia¡¯s knowledge, he was still in prison with no communication to the outside. ¡°After five months of war Ymiron forces able to penetrate the center of the Sarcan Empire with a surprise attack and caused chaos in the entire capital. That day was devastating to the Sarcan Empire, they suffer a major lose with the attack of the alliance forces, the city center was destroyed and many people had died, including some member of the royal family. Emperor Karus had been captured while injured in battle, including Nilan who was trying to escape the palace. Everything happened so fast with the help of skilled Elmcasters, who use a unified and concentrated attack. ¡°Sarcan Empire lost and were completely conquered by Ymiron forces. They held Karus and Nilan captive and brought them to Feilan capital to have a public execution. ¡°Acacia¡¯s confidante was able to infiltrate the prison, since the security this time was lax because of the celebration of the empire for winning the war. He informed him about the misfortune of the Sarcan Empire, also the captivity of Karus and Nilan and the approaching execution date for them. After hearing this Acacia became enraged and he used his strength to break free of the steel prison, leaving it completely destroyed. With Acacia¡¯s fury at his brother for going too far he rushed his way out to go and save Nilan. ¡°Nilan was in another tower and with her brother Karus in another room. She was crying for the misfortune that happened to them, in her heart she thought that Acacia betrayed her for not stopping his brother from destroying their empire. Suddenly she heard a ruckus outside and in an instant the door was blown including the guards that guarding it. She saw Acacia¡¯s face and she felt joy and sorrow at the same time. ¡°Acacia held Nilan, exhausted in breaking through the tower with tight security, he also broek Karus free as Nilan requested, they help each other to escape the tower. ¡°Outside Ymiron was with his elite guards to stop Acacia and the two. Seeing Acacia holding Nilan, and beside him was Emperor Karus his eyes twitched with anger. He disowned Acacia in that moment, and ordered his guards to kill the three of them. ¡°Acacia begged his brother to spare Nilan and Karus¡¯ lives but Ymiron was really cruel and didn¡¯t flinch in ordering his guards to kill them, including him. Acacia¡¯s heart became cold and he did not care anymore about his brother¡¯s blabbering. The only thing he knew was to escape that damnable place and save Nilan, he rushes and killed all the people who hindered him, at that time Nilan was behind him and Karus was covering their back. He used all of his strength to kill all of the swarming guards who keeps on coming, he saw some Elmcaster trying to use their ability to block their way. Seeing this Karus asked Acacia to save his sister he ran in front making them a way, Acacia dashed forward even though he¡¯s exhausted he carried Nilan in his left arm while holding his sword in his right, leaving Karus behind blocking the guards that was chasing them. Acacia used the last of his energy to run faster away from the palace.¡± ¡°Wait here before I continue I¡¯ll show you something¡± Asmot went inside the room searching something beside the log bed. Kellen was silent and patiently waits for Asmot.