《DEVOURER》 Chapter 00 - Prologue (Revised) Chapter 00 - Prologue The rain was pouring heavily ,most people are inside their homes trying to get away from the coldness of the night. As the rain relentlessly pours, unceasingly becoming stronger, one youth could be seen in the middle of it. His eyes darting here and there, their red iris color searching for a place that can be called safe, away from the cold rain, away from men that was chasing him. Breathless, the youth found a small crevice, beneath broken sill of a drainage. Anyone would cringe to even get close to it but the youth dived in, adding scatches to his pale and cold skin. Meanwhile, the group of men arrived in the same alley, the boy run into. The men were armed with knives as well as guns equipped with silencer to do it''s purpose without calling unwanted attention. The youth held his breath, not wanting to cause anything that may alert those men that was searching for him. Minutes past, then an hour, the men had already went away and would search on another area but the youth did not came out, careful that some men may have stayed and just waiting for him to make mistake. He was careful, already weak from the cold of the rain, as well as his bruised and beaten body caused by some of the men that got through when he fought and escaped. After another hour of waiting, the youth came out of hiding. Still careful of his surrounding, he carefully climb a fire escape ladder and used it to jump to another house''s roof and went out of the alley that way. He carefully jumped from roof to roof. His movement were trained and had been done many times before. This same movement allowed him to avoid spots that might give in and cause him to plummet down and fall to his death. After an hour of jumping from roof to roof, the youth finally went down another fire escape and cautiously look around. Across the alley he was in was a small apartment. S small candle within was the only source of light that can be seen from the outside. There was no one outside at this hour of the night, and added by the heavy rain, no soul would want to step outside and feel the chilling cold to crept up on their bodies. The youth run across the street and headed straight to the apartment, quickly opened the door and went inside. A pale and skinny girl was startled by his sudden appearance but quickly overcame her fright and notice that the one she .as waiting for had arrived. ???: Cifer! You scared me, suddenly coming in like that?! W-What happened to you? Your soaking wet and your face, did you get in a fight? Cifer: This is nothing, Sarie. Stay there, I''ll go ahead and change. Sariel: I''m sorry... I really wish I wasn''t like this, at least I could give you a proper welcome and get you a tower at least myself... Cifer: Do not worry yourself, Sarie. I''m happy that someone''s here at home caring about what happened to me. Because of you, I can come home because someone is waiting for me ne? Sariel: Your just saying that.. But enough about me, go and get change or you''ll catch a cold. Cifer: What are you talking about? I have never catch any illness since I was a kid. And your worried I''ll catch a cold (grin). Wait..? Where is Fen? I though he was here with you? Sariel: He went out about an hour ago. He was worried that you have not come home yet when you should. He might be looking for you. Cifer: Really?! Then let''s wait for him to return, he will come back here if he don''t find me outside. Right on cue, both of them heard a dogs call outside their door. Cifer opened the door immediately and let the dog that they were waiting for it. The dog named Fen went in and went towards Cifer. Fen is a smart dog. He was part siberian husky and part wolf when Cifer went to a veterenary friend to treat the wounded mutt when he first chance upon it. Cifer: Hey Fen, where have you been? Were you worried about me boy? (the dog whines at him looking worried) Cifer: Don''t worry Fen, I''m fine, let me get change first, ''kay? Cifer went to the next room to change his rain soaked clothes. While changing, Cifer remembered that one of his companion was with him this whole time. He notice this first when looking in the mirror, a blue snake was wrapped on his neck like a necklace. Cifer: Rag, forgot you''re there with me. Sorry ''bout getting you soaked as well hahah.. The snake moved and stared at him, poking it''s tongue on his cheek. This snake named Rag was the very first companion friend Cifer met when he was just a child. The snake shows intelligence on it''s red slitted eyes, staring at him as if telling him being soak with the rain was nothing, it''s about you. Cifer: Are you worried about me too. Like I told Rag, there is no need. I am just fine. This bruises, I''m use to it.. Come to think of it, it''s been some time when I met you guys. Cifer reminisce at the time when he met each of his three companions. Each, he considers his true family, always caring for him and there when he needs their support. First, he met Rag when he was still young and with his real family several years ago. This was the time when he was till unaware of the truth that changed his life. He first saw the blue snake on his father''s laboratory. There were several animals in his father''s laboratory, and it''s also the reason why he spend most of his time in there even though his father had always told him to play in his room. The snake was his favorite. Whenever he sneak in to the lab, he will always go to the snake''s transparent compartment and talk with it for some time. One of the days he kept telling stories to the snake, he gave a name to it as he wanted to be friends with it. The snake always stops what it''s doing or wakes up whenever it felt that he was close by. Whenever Cifer talks to it, it will look at him and sometimes moves it''s head as if agreeing whenever he ask it of something like it understand him. One day, his saw his father went out of his lab, carrying Rag''s box and heading at the back of the house. Cifer followed and to his horror, his father thrown the small compartment where Rag was in the thrash bin. Once his father left, he quickly opened the bin and swipe the box and run straight to his room. There, he saw that Rag was not moving and it''s tail was cut off and was still bleeding. Cifer frantically applied first aid to the snake, not knowing if his friend was still alive. After few hours, Rag''s head moved then once again looked at him. Cifer''s tears did not stop as his heart breaks when looking at his blue snake friend. From then on, Cifer spend most of his time in his room, to his parent''s joy and did not bothered him. He spent his time caring for the snake until it was strong again to move and eat. Overtime, Rag''s health returned and it had always been with Cifer ever since, never leaving his side. It will always gently wrap itself on Cifer''s arm or neck and was not seen by anyone other than Cifer. Thinking of when Cifer first met the blue snake, he smiled at it and stroke it''s head gently. Looking at it''s cut off tail, it always have him remember the first seed of doubt with his parents, especially with his father until it grew to hate. Cifer''s life has not been easy even when he was with his real family. Cifer was with his father, mother and Curtis, his elder brother. Everything was fine until Cifer turned 6. From then on, his family changed. Unlike before, they won''t have time for him anymore, always having guest arriving at their home. Those guest looked at him in disgust and interest. Later, Cifer notice the same look with his parent''s eyes especially with his elder brother. They will always have a meeting in his father''s study, or in their basement. After some time, he followed them on one of their meetings in their basement. There, he learned that his parents were members of some cult. After a month of turning six years old, his hardship started. He didn''t know how his parent became from kind and loving to being cold and cruel. Every night, Cifer was brought to either the laboratory or their basement where other people in robe were waiting. Red and black candles were lit all around the room. Strange marking in the floor, walls and ceiling can be seen and a pedestal in the middle of the room in their basement. When he was brought in the lab, various chemicals were injected at him, causing him pain but not killing him. Then in the basement, he was always in the middle of the room, lying down in the pedestal and sometimes wait their until everyone in the room, including his family finished their chanting or ritual. Sometimes, they would wound him on his arms, legs and body. Cifer was always in constant pain from then on, and the only thing he could do was wept and beg for them to stop. Cifer only learned later on that his parents was one of the head cult that worships the devil, and the ritual that is being done on him was to prepare him as an offer to their god. Cifer felt terror, then anger at this people, especially his parents for hurting him, then pity at himself for being weak and not being able to do anything. The only thing that kept him sane was Rag, whenever he was returned to his room, the snake will slowly crawl to his bed and comfort him. They did not end his life yet as they were preparing him for a large ritual where he will be then sacrificed. Cifer once begged his parents once more to stop what they''re doing and return back to the once they were before, but the only answer he gets was sneer on their faces. He, then came to his brother but instead of help, he realize that he also knew what''s being done to him. He wouldn''t forget what Curtis told him. This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. "Don''t be scared little brother, soon you''ll be one with our lord and we''ll be powerful once more. Be thankful of the 6 years that we let you think that your one of the family. Now you know that your just a cattle, an offering. Hahahah!" The resignation he felt when he was alone and does not have anyone he can turn to worstened. The torture done to him continued as night after night, the ritual continued and getting worst. After several weeks of torture, he heard from his parents that the time for the sacrifice will be that night. When the time came were one of his father''s guest came to his room to take him, as he fought hard to not be taken back to their basement where his fate awaits, Rag suddenly sprang to the guest''s arm and bit him. Cifer did not know that Rag was a very poisounous snake as it was also his father''s experiment, combining several venoms of snakes into it and made it a potent snake, more dangerous than a scorpion, tarantula or a king cobra. The guest died immediately, this allowed Cifer to escape with Rag ouf of the mansion where he lived and was kept all his life. Cifer run without any direction, just to get as far as possible from his parents, his once family and from his former home that became his prison. From then, Cifer had wandered from town to town, hiding from city to city, trying to survive and lived. After 3 years, on one of his travels, he found a dog, surrounded by other of it''s kind, bleeding from several cuts and bite mark that was caused by the other dogs. He intervened and saved the dog as it was on it''s final leg. He tended to it''s wounds and fed it, just like what he did when Rag was in the same state. Cifer had learned how to survive by working part time doing heavy labor. Even though the salary given to him were small, he was happy to be able to eat. It took some time as well before the dog opened to him. From then on, got a new companion, he named the dog Fen, from one of the stories, he usually reads when he was still with his former family. Rag and Fen became his travelling companion and because of the two, he was never lonely. From time to time, he thought about his former family but soon forget them as the memory he got from them were false life and full of agony. After a few more years of travelling and surviving, Cifer had chance upon his former family again, in particular, his brother, Curtis. Their meeting with them didn''t go well as his family was still trying to get him back, still trying to continue what they started. After their meeting, Cifer had to become cautious of the city he went to. Cifer had to hide most of the time to elude his former family. Since they were one of the wealthy family known for their vast wealth and power, he learned one day from a newspaper that his father and mother passed away because of a car accident. He still felt saddened, even though they treated him horribly after becoming 6, they were still his parents. Cifer thought that would stop them from pursuing him but it bacame more often that he was being chased by men sent by his brother. The case this afternoon was one of them. On his travels, he stayed sometimes for a few months on a place. While there, he met different kind of people. He met people who he opened to and was though how to fight. He was though various martial arts from the kind elders he met during his stays on different places where he met them. When he turned 15, it was the time when he met Sariel. Sariel was a sickly girl, who was scorned by people around him. He later befriended her and learned that she has an incurable disease called HIV. She was sold by her parents to a brothel, and there she served as a pleasure toy for men. Night after night, different men will used her until she couldn''t move anymore. When she was diagnosed of having HIV, she was thrown out like a thrash. People from government organization tried to helped her but since they have no cure for her disease, whe was later abandoned again to die, and that''s when she met Cifer. As cifer mentioned, because of his father''s experimenting on him, his body changed. His immunity to disease was one of the changed he got from the experiement but at the same time, pain would struck his body from time to time. But Sariel''s disease did not cause him to cringe. First he felt pity with the girl but seeing how she still smiles at him sincerely, seeing the hope and strenghth in her eyes, from pity, what he felt to Sariel became love. He never admitted it to her but from then on, he stayed at the city where he met her and start taking care of her and moved to the current apartment they were living in until his pursuer found him again awhile ago. Cifer came back from reminiscing when he heard a loud crash from the other room where Sariel and Fen was in. He heard a scream and Fen''s loud yelp. Cifer rushed back to the room, and what came to his view were the men that was chasing him earlier. Fen''s still body was lying on the floor and one of the men was also on the floor, unmoving, his neck bleeding from Fen''s bite. Cifer felt rage from seeing one of his family dead on the floor. He deduced that Fen protected Sariel as it will only attack when one of his family were hurt. Cifer: Fen! Damn you! What have you done!? I''ll kill the lot of you!! Cifer then noticed that one of the men was holding Sariel captive. Her mouth was bleeding and a bruise can be seen in her face. Then he heard a familiar voice, a voice that he does not want to hear at all. ???: Found you at last brother. Cifer: Curtis!... So you''re the one behind this! Our parent''s had passed away, so why are you still like this, pursuing me? Curtis: And why not? I''ve inherited everything from Father and Mother. That also includes you.. the sacrifice. Father and mother died because of you! If you have just stayed quiet and be a cute little cattle, everything would have been sweet. Cifer: Che!.. So you just wanted me to stay quiet and die quietly? Are you nuts?! No... that''s wrong, your insane! Curtis: W-What did you say?! How dare you say that to me, a powerful and wealthy beyond you cattle! Curtis''s sneer became mad with rage. Cifer can see the madness in Curtis eyes. He ready himself to fight back Curtis and his men however, the smile came back to Curtis''s face. Curtis: So brother, who''s this skinny bitch with you? (Cifer pulled Sariel''s hair harshly) Sariel: Aah! Cifer! Please go and escape, leave us and go! Cifer: Sariel! No! I can''t leave you and Fen here. Curtis! You stop this, I''ll go with you, but let her go! She does not have anything to do with us or any of this madness! Curtis: Oh, how cute. I guess this bitch is your whore huh. Then brother, let me see you suffer a bit more. Cifer: What!? No! Don''t you dare!! However, one of Curtis men handed him a knife and he plunged the knife at Sariels back without batting an eye while looking straight at Cifer sneering. Sariel: Ugh! Cifer.. Cifer: Sariel! No!!! Sariel: C-Cifer, D-don''t blame yourself with this.. I l-love you.. Cifer stared at Sariel as the life in her eye dimmed. After Sariel fell, all hell came loose. Cifer went berserk and charged at Curtis and his men in fury. When Cifer lost his mind to rage, he did not care how the men retaliated at his attack. He was slashed, shot but Cifer continued, like a demon and killed whoever was unfortunate to run in his path. They were only able to stop him when half of Curtis''s men were dead. They left Cifer alive barely and brought him back with them. When Cifer came to, he is in the same pedestal that was underneath their old house, when he was still a child. He was tied up and unable to move. Cifer felt weak, pain wracking his body. Then he remembered the event before he lost conciousness. He remembered Fen''s lifeless body and Sariel, his love, when she was killed in front of him. He was not able to moved but tears fell as his sadness envelope him as he was not going to be able to see his friend and love again. Curtis came into his view, his face bloodied and deformed. Not knowing what happened, Cifer did not realized that on his rampage, he was able to get ahold of Curtis and beat him to a pulp. Curtis was still alive and now looking at him with hate. Curtis: Finally! Finally, the sacrifice is with us and we''ll be able to finish what was started. Oh dark lord, we offer you this blood and cat-sacrifice. Please hear our plea and our wishes. Grant us our desire. (Extreme madness can be seen on his eyes) After Curtis'' mad chant, he plunge the knife down to his heart, again and again, in anger, he did not notice that a blue snake came loose on Cifer''s neck, stared adoringly at it''s master and friend, then look at Curtis direction. Everything was too late. As Cifer''s life was ending, his sight darkening, he still saw his first friend, Rag, the blue snake sprung and lunge at Curtis'' neck and bit with fury. As Cifer knew how poisonous his friend was, he already knew that he got his revenge. Cifer: (cough!) E-En.. t-thank you m-my friend.. a-and f-farewell... (cough! hack!) As Cifer''s sight darkened, his very first friend was still there, after it bit Curtis, it returned to his side and poke the lifeless Cifer''s cheek, like trying to say goodbye to it''s friend. Chapter 01 - Awakening (Revised) Chapter I - Awakening After the pain, there was darkness, utter darkness. Then the feeling of being pulled to one direction started. From time to time, a small wisp of light will past through like in a highway with vehicles traversing at high speed, passing other slower vehicles in the way. However, there was no sounds at all. Everything was silence. Cifer was one of the wisp of light that was being pulled through in one direction. There was no wind nor any sensation can be felt. His only companions were his memories and his regret. His regret for not being able to live normally. His regret for not being able to spend time with his friends. His greatest regret for not being able to love and have a decent family. As his spirit continued it''s travel, days, months or maybe years had past but time in the darkness does not exist. Only the wisp of light that may be like Cifer, a spirit of those that had passed. Cifer was surprised at first as to why he was still able to think, why he was still feeling regrets. Continuing his "travel" within the void, he begin to notice a change in his surrounding. The feeling of being wrench out of the flow he was in was suddenly felt and within seconds, he was out of the void and now floating on what everyone would notice as space, the outer space where one can see the stars, planets and galaxies all around. A breath taking scene was in front of him. The sensation of stillness as he floats in the middle of it. No air or pressure can be felt though. After some time as he take in his surroundings, he heard a chuckle. He was surprised as it was the first sound that he heard for quite awhile now that he may have forgotten what sounds is like. He then searched for the source but couldn''t find anything out of the ordinary within the space he was in. Suddenly, he heard it again but this time, it was rather close to him. As he looked again, Cifer was startled at the being right next to him. It was a being in a shape of a man or rather just a silhoutte of a man or woman. It looked like it was composed of pure energy but at the same time, pure light yet it wasn''t blinding that one would cover his eyes when looking at this being. Cifer made no mistake as he still knows of his situation. He died and deduce that he was in what everone calls the "afterlife". He was just not expecting it to be a void, then changing to "space". The being in front of him, he knows was a powerful being. He just don''t know yet which one. As he was pondering of the answer to his questions, the being chuckles again and spoke in a sing sung voice, like many people, man, woman, child, speaking all at the same time but not understandable as every voice was in tune, in harmony. ???: How do you like view? Amazing isn''t it? Cifer: Who.. or what are you? ???: I apologize, I did not realize and would think that you already know who I am being a human and all. Cifer: I am a human but there can be several beings that humans believe that they would meet in the after life. I just don''t know which one are you. ???: Oh? Interesting. I peg you for a reader as I know since you were a child that you liked to read volumes of books. Then tell me what you might think I am. Cifer: Eh? How did you.. no, it does not matter. You are either Death, an angel, or a devil. ???: (chuckle) You would definitely believe in devils even though you have not seen one? But I cannot blame you as you did die being sacrificed to them. But you forgot one more that can also show in front of you in the after life, yes? Cifer: Ah? Another being...? ... God? God: There you go, you finally got it. (chuckle) Cifer: I would have thought that you would have sent someone else as I would''ve thought how busy you are with all of your creation. God: I am not that busy to not be able to show my presence to someone I have a task with. I believe that would be rude to have someone tell you what to do when the one that orders it would now show up, don''t you think? Cifer: You got a point.. So you need me for something? God: Ah.. do not be weary of me, and don''t change your view of me as a devil, that''s rude. Cifer: Eh? I''m not... you''re reading my mind?! God: (chuckle) Sorry, it bacame a habit, it''s like second nature for me to hear it as there is a lot of prayers that reach me after all, and most of them was not said outloud but in thoughts. But like I said, don''t think that I''m a devil just because I mentioned that I have a task for you. Cifer: You can''t blame me can you? It''s how us humans were thought to know of them. They entice people and show themselves as angels or gods, then lead you to your doom. God: (sigh) How their image and name had become the opposite of the truth. Truly a pitty. Cifer: What do you mean by that? Don''t tell me that the concept of angels and devils are... the opposite? But that''s... God: Impossible? Why would it be impossible? But it''s deeper than that. I will tell you the story behind them as the task I have for you has something to do with them. God had explained to Cifer about angels and devils. First, God told him that devils were indeed his creation, but not angels. Angels were created by something else entirely. One by one, Cifer learned how they came to be. As God tells their story, Cifer could not believe the details about them. If this was known throughout, everything about religion will turn upside down. Devils as God mentioned were his direct subordinate. Their original names were forgotten and was now known as Devils. But they were solely created as protectors of the after life, of souls. They protect them from invaders who tend to steal souls from what God calls the "Life Stream". The Life stream is where souls go after their life ended in the world of the living. While in the life stream, they get swept up by it''s current and journey throughout it''s passage in time, until the soul would be cleansed once again of it''s impurities, it''s memories, then after, they will be sent back to life and reincarnated once more, as the cycle of life goes. If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. This is where the so called beings comes in. They steal souls for their own amusement. They use the stolen souls as pawn or plaything. They give them life of their own choosing, bodies that will serve them for entertainment. Doing this, souls that were snuff out of the life stream would not be reincarnated and be cleanse. This will turn this souls corrupted from this beings constant use. Then they will be abandoned once this beings became tired of them and sought out newer souls. Abandoned souls would wander without direction. And eventually will find a body that they will inhabit but due to corruption, they will turn out as monsters plaguing the world they emerge into. Now the ones called devils were the ones that protect and repel this beings from stealing souls from the life stream. They wage wars with this beings and their own creation, or their version of soldiers called angels or celestials. After the story, Cifer does not have the word to describe what he learned. It was a lot to take in for a mere mortal to learn of the "truth" about the after life. It was rather simple really than everyone had expected it to be. Cifer: So.. after telling all of that, what do you need of me O mighty Kami Sama? God: (chuckle) Very good, on to business then. I selected you and pulled you out from the life stream to make a gamble. Even if I''m a god of creation and all that, I still have no clue as to what all of this will end up with but one thing is for sure, in the near future and too much soul has been snatched up from the life stream, there will be no soul left to reincarnate. Only corrupted soul that became monsters will exist and there will only be chaos. Cifer: I understand, then what does that have to do with me? God: You will be my herald, my harbinger and executioner. You will be the downfall of those thieving beings. They call themselves gods. Cifer: Eh? gods? aren''t you..? God: (chuckle) I am God. The same God you read from your bible of the creation. What you may call the "One True God". Now this beings I mentioned who also call themselves gods, where also highlighted on some of your literatures. Cifer: Seriously? The only beings I know of gods other than you are the mythological greek gods, norse gods and hindu gods? There were some more but they were not as prominent as the first three. God: Right.. they are the ones. As highlighted from your books that they are arrogant and full of pride. Those are all true. And they are also the ones who steal souls from the life stream. Either they don''t care of the implications of what they were doing or they are ignorant about it. Cifer: .... And what would be a harbinger do? You also said your executioner but.. I''m just a mortal.. a kid? God: You were a kid, but now, you will be different. Cifer: Do I have a choice on this? God: Of course. I am not forcing you. It''s just that you are close to what I need and the most with the probability of success. Cifer: Probability? Could you tell me much that probability is? God: Unfortunately, I cannot. Human souls are unique that you cannot set it''s destiny as only one path. It always changes whenever an action is done. That is also why I have chosen you and although there''s more reason than that but you will know in due time. Cifer: ...I...even if I have regrets with my life, if this may be a chance.. I might find something that I''m looking for. It''s probably better than floating in the life stream and waiting for my memories to disappear. I might get snatch so I don''t want that as well.. God: Hmmm.. Ahah! then I have a gift for you for agreeing with my request. It has something to do with your past life''s regret. Cifer: My past regret? I don''t understand? God: (chuckle) You will remember of it soon and when you do, you will thank me I think. So do you agree to be my herald? Cifer: .... Yes I agree. I want this chance again even if it''s hard. God: Then I''m glad. You will be a big help in changing this stalemate between their armies and mine. Cifer: You mean angels and devils. Hahahah.. I still can''t believe it. The angels being the agents of these selfish arrogant gods and devils being your guardians. Safeguarding the souls in the life stream. God: (chuckle) It gave me a laugh as well when humans has branded them as the source of evil. When they first learned of it, they were heart broken you know? I would have guess that the angels or those gods were the cause of it but there''s nothing we can do. Cifer: By the way, how am I going to fight these gods? Do I really have a chance? If what I read about them is even a bit true, then they are powerful beings to confront with. God: Of course you will have a chance. You just have to become strong. I will not send you to them if you don''t. Besides.. you won''t be alone with your endeavor. Cifer: Huh? Then you pulled out some souls from the life stream aside from me? God: (chuckle) You will be surprise with the help you will get. It''s something that came from your previous life. It''s something that you will least expect. Cifer: Eehh.. cryptic.. well I will face it when it comes I guess. God: Good, then off you go! I will check with you from time to time if it permits it. Oh by the way, some of my devils will had come with you. It''s one of those things that came with you from your previous life. Just want to warn you and all, okay? Farewell Cifer Ordull. Good luck! (chuckle) Cifer: H-hey wait a minute! What devils! Waaaiiiitt.........!! Cifer was envelope with light once more and was pulled once again by a force that drag him to his destination as was told by the True God. Cifer''s adventure and struggles will now start. Chapter 02 - Father (Revised) Chapter II - The Devourer After his meeting with God, Cifer was transported into a location where he would start his journey. God told him to become strong, to be ready for his mission to stop the other beings, other Gods from depleting the souls from the life stream. After the light subsided, Cifer felt that the pull had stopped. Then, sensations came back to him. The feeling of having a body has returned to him. When he opened his eyes, he was in a cool forest. There were many trees but what he notice first is that the size of the trees were way larger than he would expect. When he tried to move, he was unable to. He tried to reach out but when he see a small stubby hands reaching out, he was shocked as when he move his fingers, the stubby hands of a baby had moved as well. Cifer: W-what the heck?! Don''t tell me I was turned into a baby? How the heck am I going to journey with this body. It doesn''t look like there''s someone here to care for me? Cifer waited for several minutes if there would be a change in his surroundings. Listening, he will sometimes here birds up in the trees. Animal sounds around him and bugs sounds and crawling but nothing that sounds like humans or intelligent creature that will be able to help him. Cifer did not panick though, as even having a body of an infant, he finally was able to move. He was able to propped himself to turn around and started learning how to crawl. When he was able to, he noticed that there''s a puddle or a pond near him. Cifer crawled to the pond, every second and minutes fast, hes limbs become stronger. He was astounded as an infant should not been able to progress like he did but he was able to. Upon reaching the pond, he saw for the first time, his reflection. His face was of course, that of a child but traces of his previous face can be seen. However, he noticed some addd feature to his looks. First his skin was a bit pale and translucent, most likely because he only have an infant''s body. Second was his eyes, it was crimson red that seems to glow when he strongly stared at himself. Then his hair was pure black. As dark as the abyss. But there was a gloss on it when light hit''s his hair. He also already have teeth. Two sides of mouth has something like a canine fangs just like that of a vampire or a beast. His ears were also a bit pointed, just like an elf from the stories he read when he as a kid. Cifer: Heh.. I guess I look cool? I''m most likely not a human anymore, with these features. I wonder what God had made me into. Hey w-what''s this?! Cifer finally notice something from his view. Whenever he moves his head, the symbols follow. He focus on them and can see that the symbols were letters. Cifer: This is, it says HP, MP and SP?? What the heck, i-is this what I think it is? I guess I will try it out.. but.. this is ridiculous. Cifer tried out to experiment upon seeing the symbols as HP, MP and SP. He had encountered them before so Cifer tried out what he had thought it would be. Cifer started thinking about the word "Status", then suddenly, a large box with various symbols and letters showed up in front of him. Cifer was looking at a status screen of himself. He started reading what was written in the box. STATUS WINDOW Name: Cifer Ordull Gender: Male Race: Titan-Devil Hybrid Class: Devourer Alignment: Neutral Titles: Herald of the One True God Harbinger of the One True God Executioner of the One True God Level: 1 (0%) Health: 23,000 Mana: 13,800 Stamina: 13,800 Strength: 230 Vitality: 230 Agility: 230 Dexterity: 230 Intelligence: 230 Wisdom: 230 Luck: 130 Attack: 115 - 230 Defense: 230 Magic Resistance: Fire: 30% Ice: 30% Water: 30% Earth: 30% Lightning: 30% Wind: 30% Light: 30% Darkness: 30% Time: 30% Space: 30% Nature: 30% Destruction: 30% Spirit: 30% Death: 30% Abnormal Status Resistance: Poison: 30% Paralysis: 30% Bleed: 30% Cripple: 30% Burn: 30% Freeze: 30% Disease: 30% Silence: 30% Blind: 30% Charm: 30% Illusion: 30% Petrification: 30% Curse: 30% Death: 30% Traits: True God''s Blessing: -The true God has blessed you with with his divine energy. -All resistance +10% -All Stat +100 Rapid Growth: -Body growth will be accelerated until original age reach before resurrection. -Exp. Gained x10, Proficiency x5 Universal Language Comprehension -Able to understand any language from any creature. Otherworlder''s Wisdom: -An evolved form of human''s wisdom. -Because of having knowledge of previous world with advance technology, you''re able to grasp the logic of things. -Having a humans intellect and wisdom, you''re able to adapt in any environment overtime. -INT+100, WIS+100 Titan''s Body: +100 to Vitality, +1000 to Stamina -Because of having a titan''s body, physical resistance will be tougher than a dragon. -For every level gain +10 more to original stats. -All resistance +10% -STR+100, VIT+100 Devil''s Soul: -Several devils had taken refuge within your soul before your death and came with you upon your reincarnation. -For every level gain +10 more to original stats. -All resistance +10% -AGI+100, DEX+100 Devil Id: -Devil''s had become a part of your soul. -When certain requirements are met for each devils, they can be awaken and can be given flesh to aid you in your battles. -When certain requirements are met for each devils, it will allow you to modify your body as a devil which will grant various skills and additional attributes. -When certain requirements are met for each devils, you will be able to utilize a devil''s skills and powers. Skills: Devour Type: Passive Level: Beginner (0%) -Devourer''s exclusive skill, due to the nature of the ancient titan that once devoured gods, it will allow you to assimilate an opponent''s has been devoured. -Beginner skill allows you to absorb 1 skill from devoured opponent. -If same monster were devoured and all skills has already been learned, a +1 random stat will be added to yours permanently. -Skill will also automatically place a monster''s/enemies item drop on your inventory once devoured. Right Hand of Extreme Pain Type: Active Level: Beginner (0%) Mana: 500 -A skill that can only be use on your right hand. This skill allows you to tear on the soul of your opponent, inflicting exteme pain on them. -Beginner skill allows you to cause x2 pain to your opponent with each part of their soul that was torn by your right hand. -10% chance to inflict Paraysis and Cripple. -1% chance to inflict Death. Left Hand of Blessing Type: Active Level: Beginner (0%) Mana: 100 -A skill that can only be use on your left hand. This skill allows you to store a skill in your left hand and transfer it to an item or an ally. -Beginner skill allows you to store 1 skill at your disposal. -Skill blessing on an ally will only lasts 1 hour. -Skill blessing on an item will allow 1 usage. Cifer: As I''ve expected, this looks like one of those game I''ve played. So RPG like... this world is weird. I wonder if everything has this concept on them. But my stats.. I wonder how a persons stat in this world would look like? Maybe mine is just a bit above them... probably. Cifer next focus his thought in "Inventory", but when a box shows up for his inventory, it''s empty. Disappointed with not having any item, he closed down the inventory box and look around him once more. After some time, when he didn''t hear of anyone near him, he bacame worried, but at the same time, his stomach grumbled. Cifer: Guh!.. now I''m hungry.. what am I suppose to eat now.. hmmm, no milk here, no one to feed me as well... maybe I can gather some fruits or berries and nuts? I already have a complete set of teeth so I guess I should be fine? Suddenly, near where Cifer was at, a bush had started moving. Cifer focus on the bush and wait for whatever will come out of it. He was worried that this world will have monsters, and if a monster showed up, there''s 100% probability that he will die and get eaten. After few seconds, a small animal jumped out of the bush and landed in front of Cifer. The small animal looked like a rabbit back in Earth but this rabbit has a horn on it''s forehead. It''s read eyes notice him and was looking at him curiously. When Cifer moved, the small beast by instinct lunge at him head first, planning to impale him with it''s horn. Panicking, Cifer dodge but it had grazed his arm a little. When Cifer looked at his health, 10 health was deducted. He was dumbfounded but just thought that the monster in front of him was really weak. But the rabbit is trying to lunge him again, however, Cifer was prepared. When the rabbit lunge at him again, he again dodged but since he know how fast the lunge is, he was able to dodge properly, not panicking this time and swing his stubby arms at the rabbit. His swing connected at the rabbit was blown back and hit the tree close by. Being cautious, Cifer did not moved from the spot and did not realized that he was already standing. He waited for the beast to move but after several minutes, no movement came from the rabbit. Cifer walk towards the rabbit slowly thinking that it was playing dead. Upon reaching the rabbit, Cifer saw that the head of the rabbit was bent the wrong way. He was able to kill the rabbit in one blow. Realizing that it''s his first kill, he quickly thought that he maybe able to eat the rabbit but he was inclined not to as it was not cooked. A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. While Cifer was pondering on what to do, he remembers the skill he saw on his status screen. He wanted to experiment as what the skill "Devour" will do. He also does not know how to use it. At first, he tried to call out the name, but since he''s still an infant, the word did not came out right. Loss at what to do, he looked at the rabbit and feeling hungry he suddenly felt a sensation that his hunger had spike up. Now feeling ravenous at the rabbit in front of him, his bodies instinct kicked in. Both his arms went to his chest, then like grabbing a space from his chest, then forcing the space to open, suddenly a dark shadow came out from his chest and quickly became a large mouth full of sharp teeth. It then lunge at the dead rabbit and ate it, devouring it whole. As quickly as it appeared, it quickly retracted and go back to the space in front of his chest. After, the hunger that Cifer felt receded and what he felt was like he ate a light meal which alleviated his hunger. He also felt invigorated at the same time. Then a notification appeared automatically in front of him. "Acquired Skill from beast, Darbill: Burst Speed" Cifer quickly opened the advance information for the skill and read it''s information. Burst Speed Type: Active Level: Beginner (0%) Mana: 10 -A skill that allows you more power to your legs. Able to let you use a sudden burst of strength to your legs, allowing you to do a sudden movement or jump higher. After reading the information of the skill, Cifer again experimented and tried the skill to jump. Using the skill before, he grasp the idea of how to use skill as connected with "desire" and "feeling". Using this, Cifer desired to jump high and feeling the power in his legs. Cifer then activated the skill, then jump. This allowed him to jump 2 meter off the ground. While feeling wonder with the skill he obtained, Cifer miscalculated. Once an object in air had reach the intended height from the burst of power, it will definitely fall because of gravity. Since Cifer was still small, 2 meter is pretty high for an infant to fall. Cifer fell down and bracing for impact, the pain started from his legs up to his body. This also cause his health to fall down a hundred. Learning of his mistake while rubbing his cramped legs until the pain receded, he thought of how he could used the skill without hurting himself. While deep in thought, Cifer then heard a different sound coming from past the trees to his left. Listening carefully, Cifer was able to hear bits and pieces of the voice he heard. ???: ... Oracle ... a child ..... appear .. .... way! ???: Find ... ..... and destroy it! ........ ordered to ..., ... cannot live! Cifer was shock at what he heard. They were talking about a child, but the only child that can be found in the forest was himself. He was most shocked at the words they mention to destroy a child in his vicinity. Cifer was frantically thinking of what to do. He hoped that he misheard them and wanted to call them for help but was also suspicious at how close their words is to his current situation, and they even know the location. Cifer''s suspicion won but before he could run away, the owner of the voices had just appeared from the direction he heard them from and to his surprise, he was looking at human like beings with long ears and beautiful faces. The owner of the voices Cifer heard were Elves. The elves, after seeing Cifer quickly moved. There were 3 of them and they quicly surrounded Cifer to prevent escape. Cifer could feel their killing intent and the first of the three draw his bow, aimed and shot at Cifer without batting an eye. If Cifer did not acquired the skill from the darbill earlier, he would not have been able to use it''s burst skill to dodge the shot from the elf. Cifer once again tried to escape but the second elf moved and brandish a long knife and tried to slash him. Using burst once more, Cifer was able to dodge the slash from the second elf but he did not notice the third elf moving at the same time as the second, flanking him and delivering a kick at the right time, hitting Cifer''s body, flinging him to the nearest tree. As the wind got knocked out of him, his damage was great. Looking at his health, a single hit had cause a thousand damage to him. If he were a normal being, especially an infant, his body would not have hold out. Still unable to breath properly, as well as his eyesight blurring because of the hit, he was unable to move immediately. The three elves close in on him to finish him off. One knocking an arrow on his bow, two brandishing long knives, he have nowhere to go and was cornered. Before the three got even closer, all of them stop and froze where they stand. Cifer, Dumbfounded at what''s going on, looked at the faces of the three elves. It looked like all three were trying to force themselves to move but unable to. Then suddenly, Cifer heard a voice of an old man. ???: Hohohoh.. I can see that the noble elves had stoop so low, as to gang up against a child, and an infant at that.. how dissapointing.. First Elf: Ggghhhhg! How dare you, vile God of the dark forest... Do not interfere with our mission! Ggggghhh.. ???: Mission? But the only thing I can see here are three elves bullying a child.. Second Elf: Our oracle had foresaw a child appearing in the forest that will bring forth the end of everything... Ggghh.. You will regret interfering with us... Gggghha.. ???: Hohohoh! Thend of everything? Hohohoh! I think not.. I was told that this child will only end suffering.. and this oracle of yours.. I hear from the wind that she''s being held against her will as well as being force to use her ability... no? Third Elf: Nonsense! GGhhhhahh.. Our oracle is a holy medium for us.. we would not bring her any discomfort. How dare you blasphemere to tell lies in front of us!! ???: (sigh) Still very narrow minded I see. Pawns by your so called patriarch.. well enough of this.. I do not want to dally any further by speaking with you... Elves: ???!!! GGghhhhaa... We won''t go down without a fight!!! ???: No... You''re already dead.... Suddenly, a curve blade embedded into the neck of the first elf. The second elf fell by being bitten by a wolf like beast in the neck. And the last elf died by being impaled by tree roots right in the center of his chest. None of them were able to make a move. As fast as they appeared, they also died immediately, unceremoniously. Seeing all this, after the three elves lay still on the ground, he looked back at the old man who were just minutes ago, conversing with the elves who was now looking intently at him. Then carefully, the old man came closer to Cifer but did not made any sudden movements as to not scare him. ???: Little one.. are you all right? Cifer: I am fine. Thank you for saving me and coming to my aid. ???: It was nothing. I''m glad that we came just in time. I would be saddened if harm had befell you right after coming into this world. Cifer: You knew who I am? Were you sent here by someone? By the way.. who are you? ???: Indeed I am... I was.. told several nights ago that a herald will be coming into this world... I was.. requested.. to give aid to the child that would be born on this day... And I apologize for not introducing myself.. right away.. My name is Pahn.. former god of the wilds. Cifer: Pahn... I remember now. I heard of you.. but why former? Pahn: Hohohoh.. former god.. for I have fallen.. I was exiled and abandoned here in this world.. I was removed from Olympus.. for aiding humans too much.. for caring too much of mortals and favoring to assist them than the gods... Cifer: Was it the king of the gods that exiled you here? Zeus? Pahn: Hohohoh! Very knowledgeable for a child... Very... interesting indeed... I like you.. how would you like to be my.. son.. not a bad deal eh... hohohoh... Cifer: That is not a bad suggestion. Why not.. it will be a good experience having a former god of the wild as a dad.. (smiled) Pahn: (dumbfounded) Child, I meant it as a joke but... your taking it seriously...? You would want me... even though I''m an old man without power? You''ve just met me yet.. Cifer: Power isn''t everything for me. I have learned this before.. What I need is sincere feeling. Without a trace of falsehood. I believe when I look into your eyes that you are honest and will care for me.. I may sound like I''m going to use you to protect and care for me.. but I.. Pahn: Hohohohoh! Nonsense! I understand clearly... I understand your pain as I as well had looked into your eyes... If you can accept me.. then I will accept you sincerely.. I am alone now but if you become part of .. my family.. then I will not regret being exiled .. here in this world.. Cifer: Hahahah.. then it''s a deal.. I am glad to have met you... my Father... Cifer got a notification after. "For becoming Pahn''s adopted son, you have gained a title: The Wild''s Son" It''s the first step Cifer took to have a family in his second chance in life. Pahn will be one of the corner stone which will form the young Cifer to strengthen his beliefs, goal and determination in life. Chapter 03 - Amarok Chapter III - Amarok After Cifer became Pahn''s adapted son, they went off to the dark forest but not before Cifer devouring the three elves that was killed in their encounter. This gave a surprise to Pahn but was quickly accepted and was even praise for having such a unique ability. Cifer explained his ability to Pahn to strengten their trust with each other. Afterwards, they headed to the dark forest where Pahn resides. On the way, Pahn explained the circumstances of the forest. The elves that they encountered earlier was a part of a conclave of elves with their elven king and oracle at their head. The oracle was on friendly terms with Pahn, being once a peaceful God who cared about the forest and it''s inhabitant. But the elven king''s views is different. Once they have obtained the backing of a God, they became violent and branded Pahn as a fallen dark god and became the enemy of the whole elven conclave. Pahn avoided a larger conflict as to his knowledge the the nation is just being use by their king to do his God''s bidding. The Oracle fought with the elven king but one day, she became silent. Pahn thinks that the oracle was imprisoned and was being forced to use her ability for the elven king. Cifer: That''s an unbelievable story.. but if what you said is true, then how are things with you and the elven conclave currently? Pahn: The dwellers.. of the dark forest were all not mindless beast... They... assist me on this struggle and for survival... The elves are... becoming stronger... They are... pushing the dark forest''s bounderies and... enlarging their territory.. thus, strengthening their powers as well... Cifer: What happens if the elves territory covers the whole of the dark forest? Pahn: Most of... the inhabitant of the dark forest... are dependent.. with it''s atmosphere as well as... the food for that grows within.... The dark forest also provides... cover and darkness for the nocturnal creatures within... Once... the dark forest ceased... their will be many creatures death... because of the balance of the normal and dark forest will be broken... Cifer: Doesn''t the elves know of it? Pahn: They do... but they have closed their minds and heart.... Many had done so for power... of the promise of becoming stronger... because of the gods influence on them... and the elven kings'' lies... Cifer: Do you know who''s god is backing them? Pahn: I can... guess but I''m not too sure... Gods are pickle beings... They change their mind and are satisfied.... next, they would want more... So it might not be.... a god under the forest... or nature category but something else entirely... Cifer: I get your point father. I want to help you as best as I can. Pahn: Hohohoh.. Then that would be a great help indeed... but for now, your still a child.. Cifer: I understand but my growth speed is quite fast.. I give it maybe a few more days before I become what I was before or more.. Pahn: Oh!.. then.. that''s quite something.. son.. I must ensure to.. spoil you.. a bit before... you grow up... Cifer: Gee.. I didn''t know you''ll be a doting father. hahahah! On the way back to the dark forest, Cifer noticed Pahn''s companion that was with them. The beast that had taken care of the elves and there was a dark skin elf as well with them. He guest that it was a dark elf. Once they arrived at Pahn''s abode, Cifer was surprise at how serene the place is. Pahn''s home was a large tree. The body of the tree was hollowed out and has multiple floors that surrounds it. According to Pahn, because of enchantments that was placed around it, it will not be found by outsiders unless someone within brought them in, they will be accepted by the barrier. This also prevent wild beast and monster that has bloodlust within them to get through. Pahn showed Cifer to his room. At this point, Cifer was now a toddler, comparable to a 4 year old kid. He was quite astounded by his growth that not even a few hours ago, he was just an infant that only knows how to crawl. While in his room, Cifer checked the skills he obtained from the 3 elves he devoured earlier. Bow Mastery Type: Passive Level: Beginner (0%) -Allows ease of use and handling of any type of bow or crossbow. -Hit rate +10%, Damage +10%, Attack speed +10% when using a bow type weapon. Knife Mastery Type Passive Level: Beginner (0%) -Allows ease of use and handling of any type of knives. -Hit rate +10%, Damage +10%, Attack speed +10% when using a knife weapon. Tracking Type: Passive Level: Beginner (0%) -Allows ability to hunt. Gives the skill to see hidden tracks of beast or monsters, showing the way to it''s location. Can sense monsters within 5 meters from user. Cifer: Hoh~ this can definitely be useful.. now to check on my skill how they gain experience...! What the! Why is my devour skill so high? Was it because those elves were high leveled? hmmm... As Cifer looked at his devour skill, it indeed leveled up quickly. Cifer forgot that the blessing god gave him allows him to grow quickly to catch up with the gods he need to slay. Looking again with the skill, Cifer sighs with the unbelievable speed of his skill gain. Devour Type: Passive Level: Novice (53%) -Devourer''s exclusive skill, due to the nature of the ancient titan that once devoured gods, it will allow you to assimilate an opponent''s has been devoured. -Beginner skill allows you to absorb 3 random skill from devoured opponent. -If same monster were devoured and all skills has already been learned, a +3 random stat will be added to yours permanently. -Skill will also automatically place a monster''s/enemies item drop on your inventory once devoured. Days have past since Cifer became Pahn''s adopted son. Everyday, Cifer grows yet Pahn still views him as a child and son. Pahn was a dedicated father and Cifer grows more attached to him than ever. The joy and feelings he shared with his newfound father brought happiness within Cifer. On the few days of his stay with Pahn, he was introduced to the various creature that was also living with the former God of the wild. Pahn called them kindred spirit, for they are also outcast or exiled from where they came from. First one that was introduced to him was the dark elf Arislan. He was a quiet man but according to Pahn, he was the last of his clan. His family, including his wife and child as murdered and was wiped out by the orders of the elven king. The reason was Arislan''s wife was one of the daughter of the elven king. When their child were born, the elven king was in a fit of rage and sent his elite to wipe out Arislan''s clan and only he escaped. Pahn found him near his abode, mortally wounded and dying. With the lack of the will to live, Pahn had a hard time reviving the poor dark elf. Now, Arislan solely live for revenge as well as his duty to serve the fallen god. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Cifer next met the fairy princess, Etheria. The next heir to be an empress fairy, however, before it happened, a ruthless sorceror came to their realm and enslaved most of their race. Etheria were able to escape with the help of few royal guard fairies her mother sent to escort her to espcape. Upon escaping, one by one, her guards and protectors fell and was captured until only she were left. She was lucky that she ended up next to Pahns place and because of the barrier, she was able to elude her pursuer. From then on, Etheria were living with Pahn. Lastly, one of Pahns protector was introduced to him. Aroden Whitefang, a lycan, a werewolf. First time Cifer saw him, he was in awe. Looking at Aroden, with his white fur and strong, intimidating stature, anyone would be in awe when they first gaze at him. The white wolf was a noble soul. Also, last of his clan. He was a pure warrior willing to die in battle but still survived but for the rest of his clan were wiped out with the last battle with vampires further south. Aroden ended up in the dark forest when a teleportation spell was cast at him by his mate to escape. Now, Aroden guards Pahn as he knows that he will be unable to take revenge unless dying a senseless death if he ever came back to his home land. Each of the individuals that was living with them were unique but everyone was under Pahn''s protection and bidding their time and thought when they will take their revenge. After a week had past, Cifer''s appearance was already like what he would looked like when he was still living back on earth. He was now with his 18 year old body. He felt stronger than before and still growing. But the accelerated ageing had stop so he will now age normally. The past few days, he was not idling by. He already befriended the the dark elf, the wolf and the fairy princess. Each time he spent with them, he learned a thing or two. Because of his interaction with them, he learned that not only devouring creatures will allow him to learn skills or become strong. Also with hard work and constant practice, he can learn skills and boost his stat further. So under the dark elf''s tutelage, he learned "Presence Sensor". A skill that allows him to detect creatures or enemies in a ten meter radius. According to Arislan, as this skill becomes better, the range also becomes wider, allowing him to intercept an ambush before it begins or be prepared when enemies are coming when least expected. Cifer was able to integrate the skill with the rpg like feature that he gets. This also thought him that only those that are link or a herald can pull up the same windows as he did. Normal beings is unable to pull it up, unlike him. He was also thought by Aroden. When one time, Cifer was practicing martial arts that he learned from previous life, Aroden became curious and asked questions about it. He was told that the form he was doing is similar to the people from the east on this world. Aroden mentioned that one of their ancestor had traveled the east and learn one of their basic technique. Aroden thought Cifer the technique called "Ki Strike". A very useful technique when fighting a larger opponent, or those that are fully armored, as it ignores the defense of the opponent. Lastly, the curious fairy princess, Etheria, became jelous of the other two, as they were able to teach him a skill. So the Etheria volunteered to teach him a skill, widely used by fairies. Cifer was worried that the skill might be unlearnable as it might be an exclusive to it''s race. But the fairy was intent to teach him a skill so reluctantly, Cifer followed and tried learning her skill. In the end, since Cifer''s body was created by God, he not only have a fierce body for being a warrior, his body also gathers quite the amount of mana that he is also able to use magic, but since magic was non existent on where he came from, he had no idea how to, and he was thankful that the fairy was able to teach him the basic. Fairies are natural mana oriented creature, as their everyday life always touch mana within their being. The fairy princess thought him "Mana Manipulation", allowing him to touch the mana in the air, converting it to magic. Although, Cifer still does not know how to form magic, he has vague idea on how to, he promised the fairy to learn more about it in the future. Cifer trained himself with the skills he learned since Pahn did not allow him to leave the barrier, as the elves were seen venturing within the dark forest, most likely intent on finishing their task given by the elven king to destroy Cifer. Even though he wasn''t able to leave, he practiced near the border, as per Arislan''s instruction. This would allow him to sense the creatures outside the barrier, training his Presence Sensor skill. Cifere oblige and while training the skill, he was also training his body, familiarizing it with controlled movements and basic martial arts. This allowed him to learn "Unarmed Combat Mastery", as he trained and hit trees around him. This raise the skill as well as the perception skill since there were many beast that wanders just outside of the barrier. As his body becomes stronger with the help of his newfound companions, he was at the same time, satisfied with having friends and a father with him. However, their peaceful time did not last. The elven king, frustrated at not being able to find their target, prayed to his god to request for assistance. The god Amarok was the new patron god of the elves. Because of Amarok''s influence, it made the elves succumb to their beastly instinct and aggresiveness. Elves usually are patient and does not come out to provoke a creature, but because the new god''s influence, they became bolder, and even venturing to the dark forest without a care. Amarok, hearing the plea for assistance, sent a vanguard celestial down to the elven king. Now that a celestial, an angel was assisting the elven king, they move to finish what they started. The true purpose of their mission that was given by Amarok was to finish off Pahn. Amarok was also a God of beast and was jelous of Pahn because of his influence was lower than Pahn. For he was the cause of Pahn''s banishment. He urge and fooled one of the elder gods and told them that Pahn was favoring the mortals more than them. This angered the elder gods, banishing Pahn from their fold forever. Now that Pahn was exiled, his power was now greater. Amarok wanted to see the source of his jelousy to disappear completely, so he volunteered to reside within the same world where Pahn was banished to, and commanded the elves to destroy the falled god for him. Now the elves are moving, emboldened more by the appearance of the celestial, they prepared to attack. Now that an attack is imminent, Cifer''s life will enter it''s turning point and will give him a push to begin his journey. Chapter 04 - Sorrow Chapter IV - Sorrow Cifer was awaken by a sudden large explosion. It was near their tree house that they lived in. Having awoken with the start, Pahn was suddenly at his door, face paled and was urging hime to come out of their home. Cifer: Father! What''s happening!? Pahn: Something is attacking the barrier that''s surrounding our home. And it''s not an ordinary attack, it''s powerful magic that is being used. Cifer: Father, didn''t you say that the barrier is connected to you? Is this the reason why your trembling and pale? Pahn: Do not worry son, I won''t allow them to get through! Cifer: But.. you''ll die in this case if you do not release the barrier. Arislan: Lord Pahn! We are surrounded on all sides. And I detect another being outside the barrier, releasing large amount of mana! Pahn: Impossible.. is it a celestial? Cifer: Celestial? An angel... here? Pahn: It is what I''ve feared.. their god.. which I believe was Amarok is now impatient. He is intent in destroying me because of his jelousy. But I did not believe they will move this soon.. Aroden: Lord! There is no path to escape.. I will create a path for you away from the celestial.. while you escape. Pahn: NO... I will not allow you all to die here. Even if we are surrounded, everyone must escape! Do not throw your life for me Aroden, Arislan. You still have a task. You know my condition, it is not worth protecting me.. Cifer: Father.. what condition? Pahn: Hohohoh.. I am sorry.. son.. I did not tell you one thing. That is.. that I''m dying. Without being within the pantheon that created me.. without having people or creatures to believe in me in my original world, my life is decreasing as I am forgotten.. Cifer: But I believe in you.. we believe in you! Isn''t that enough? Pahn: I wish it is.. I am happy that all of you here.. worries about me.. but soon, son, you''ll learn more about the gods.. for now, everyone must escapte! Aroden, Arislan, you know where to meet, in case we are separated, now GO! Arislan: .... I won''t forget this Lord Pahn. This is the second time I''m loosing someone I care about.. Pahn: Hohohoh.. child.. you know what I have told you about.. now go! Where is Etheria? She must escape too! Etheria: I am here lord Pahn, I will stay with Cifer.. I cannot escape by myself and I feel much safer with him.. Pahn: Very well.. son.. protect her but be careful.. Cifer: But I will stay with you! Pahn: Now is not the time for this.. Ghhhaaahh... the barrier is almost gone.. let us go son, I will guide you where to go from here.. Cifer: Where are we going? Pahn: Follow me son.. As the three of them headed towards the large tree that serves as their home, another large explosion occurred. This time, it had cause Pahn to spasm in pain. At the same time, the barrier that surrounds the area had disappeared. Following this event, large amount of arrows flew towards their location. Pahn used his remaining strength to protect Cifer and the fairy princess that is hiding in Cifer''s chest. Once the barrage of arrows stopped, a large energy sphere came at them at a blinding speed, impacting the shield that Pahn had conjured. This immediately broke the shield to pieces, flinging Pahn and Cifer, closer to the tree. When Pahn turned a looked at the their attacker, he immediately recognized the celestial that is responsible with the attack. Pahn: Hadriel?! It''s you.. why of all the celestial they sent you? Hadriel: Greetings lord Pahn. I was ordered by my lord Amarok to assist the elves in slaying you.. you have been a torn on his side for far too long. Cifer: Father! Do you know him? Pahn: Yes, son.. he was a celestial, the angel that previously served me when I was still a God. Hadriel: Right.. and I loathed it too much. The mortals that you''ve cared for should all perish, but instead you blessed them, you help them.. how despicable! Pahn: I did not realize that you have that side on you... two sides of a coin. You were very meek when I was in power, never asking and just silently obeys.. Hadriel: That time is done.. now, enough talk, any last words for my previous master? Pahn: Heh.. How arrogant. You''re only able to do this because I am weakened. Cowards! Hadriel: How dare you fallen god, now DIE!!! The celestial, along with many elven mage, focus their magic in Pahn and Cifer''s direction. Pahn had focused his remaining power to create a shield for his two companions, planning on strengthening the shield for Cifer to survived. Doing this, Cifer''s face was masked with shock then sorrow. As the energy from their enemies approach, Pahn smiled at Cifer. Then the explosion occurred.. Cifer lost conciousness after the explosion as last he gazed at was his father''s smiling face. Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. Pahn woke in a dark place, but remembering his father, he woke with a start. He frantically looked in all direction, but all he can see was darkness. Then suddenly, Cifer saw a small golden light, gradually coming closer to his location. Once the light came closer, he recognized that it was the fairy princess that is the source of the light. Cifer: Etheria! Where''s father! Etheria: Cifer... Lord Pahn.. he''s.. Etheria led Cifer to Pahn''s location. When Cifer saw the state his father is in, he broke down in tears and sorrow. Pahn was beyond saving. Full of wounds, missing limbs and his wise and knowing eyes are gone. Pahn senses Cifer close by and called out weakly. Pahn: Son... are you.. there...? Cifer: Yes.. father.. I''m here.. please don''t speak too much.. we''ll get help.. Arislan an-and Aroden.. they''ll come! You''ll see.. Pahn: Son.. listen to me.. I am already dying.. as you have heard earlier.. not being within the pantheon... that created me.. and sustain me.. I will cease to... exist anyway... right now.. you must listen... (cough!) Cifer: Father! Okay.. I''m here.. Pahn: This place.. we are in.. is suppose to be.. where we should .. escape.. for this.. is a dungeon.. created to seal.. another fallen.. this .. is beneath.. our home.. but the elves.. or even the celstial ... does not know... of... Cifer: A dungeon? Then that means.. it''s still dangerous here? Pahn: Yes.. it is dangerous... but for .. you.. it can become a ... training ground.. this dungeon ... is deep.. (cough!) I want.. you to reach the.. bottom... and free the... fallen that is sealed... within.. Cifer: Yes! I''ll do what you ask... but.. please.. don''t leave me! Pahn: Hoho..hohoh.. (cough!) This time.. I cannot stay.. I''m sorry.. that our time are .. so short.. but you must do something.. for me.. Cifer: Anything! Anything you want father.. Pahn: I need you... to care for this.. egg.. Another... god gave me.. this.. but all those time.. it never hatches... but it''s alive... please.. care for it for me.. Cifer: A god? An egg.. this.. I will take care of it father.. don''t worry anymore.. Pahn: Good.. that god.. was eccentric.. and liked to fool around.. he said that that egg was his.. son.. hohoh..ho.. Now.. I want you to ... do me one last.. favor... Cifer: Yes.. what is it that you want.. If I can do it for you.. Pahn: Good.. I want you.. to... (cough!).. DEVOUR me.. Cifer: W-what!? Why would you want me to!? Pahn: Hohohoh.. I''m sorry to have you.. do this.. They.. might still sence my .. life force.. here and ... follow.. but the reason.. I want you to is.. to .. be .. a part of you.. I want.. whatever.. skill.. you can use.. I can .. give you.. (cough! cough! hack..!) Hurry!.. I''m almost.. Cifer: Father.. I... very well.. Pahn: Do not.. be sad.. this way.. I will be with ... you.. I... am.. lucky.. to...... have.. ... you......... son....! Cifer: NOOo! FATHER!! NO!... Uuuaahhhhh!!! As Pahn breath his last, Cifer''s sorrow had reach the limit. He cried for hours and grieve his lost. After Etheria told him that Pahn''s essence may leak disperse outside, Etheria told Cifer that it will make their enemies above know their location. with the mention of enemies, Cifer came through. With revenge now deep in his heart, he promised to Pahn''s lifeless body that he would come back to the surface and take his revenge. Cifer: Father.. I promised you.. I will avenge you! I''ll kill them all! The elves! That celestial! and that god Amarok!! I''ll devour them all!! Etheria: Cifer... you.. Cifer: Don''t worry princess.. My mind is now clear.. My eyes are opened.. once I''m done with them, I will help you reclaim your home. I hope Arislan and Aroden are still alive. I wish to help them too, in place of my father. Etheria: (sigh) I understand. Thank you Cifer.. As Cifer promised, he said goodbye one last time to his father. Then afterwards, he activated his skill "Devour". Pahn was the first god that he devoured but not the last. Whenever he activate his skill, hunger envelope his being, but this time, only sorrow and sadness run through him. After devouring the remains of his father, Cifer got a notification. "For devouring a god, you gained a title: God Eater" "You have obtained a gift from the God of the Wild" "Abnormal status resistance +5%" "Nature/Spirit/Wind/Earth resistance +10%" "Vitality/Intelligence/Wisdom/Luck + 50" "Acquired Skill from Fallen God, Pahn: Wild Aura" "Acquired Skill from Fallen God, Pahn: Summon Treant" "Acquired Skill from Fallen God, Pahn: Nature Barrier"