《Hero's of our time: Growing spirit!》


 Prologue

    "And today class, we have a very special guest here today! Everyone, welcome the hero known only as Raven!"


    ("Great. It''s gonna be another generic hero in enchanted armor or something."


    Stepping into my class was a 7 foot, towering monster of a hero, clad in rad armor! Pretty much everyone was gushing over this guy...and not gonna lie, me too.


    "Today, Raven will be here to teach you all the importance of becoming a hero if you so choose to when you all get older. And due to our class being the highest rated in the school, you all are the first students to head to the gym and listen to Ravens words!"


    All the other students already jumped out of their seats like sugar hungry fiends. Eventually we was led by our teacher to the school''s gymnasium to be the first to learn from this *mysterious* Raven guy.


    ("Pfft. Just because he''s cool doesn''t mean he''s all that. I bet he probably uses nothing but enchantments and such!!")


    Leading us into the gym, I stared in awe at what was done to the place. It wasn''t just this raven hero. Apparently there was many other heros here, all with different booths and such. Probably wanting kids to look at their stupid hero schools or something stupid!"


    "Hey!!! Kak-Yak!!"


    I turn my head to find that my friend walking up to me. "Ah! How''s it going dude?"


    *Fist bump*


    "Yo, you saw that guy in that cool armor? Looked like something straight from a book man. And did you see that sword he''s got?!"


    I nod. "Yeah, he''s gotta be pretty dang strong to hold that thing. Pfft, whatever though, it''s probably got enchantments or something like that!!"


    "Maybe." I tense up at the feeling of him playfully slapping my back. "Hey!! You always go crazy talking about this hero stuff!! Now''s your chance to get into a good school in the future dude! You know, learn some stuff."


    *groan* "I don''t know. I mean do you KNOW of the stupid rules they need to follow and all that? Oh, don''t hurt criminals this way, don''t use this and that magic, oh remember to-"


    "Ok, yeah, I get it dude. But I''m just saying, you WANT to be a hero right? Well, now''s the best time to at least think of applying to one of the many hero schools. I mean you don''t wanna be a tavern barkeep or something simple."


    *eye roll* "I am NOT being a barkeep." *Crosses arms, looking to the many booths* "I don''t want to be bound to some stupid code. I wanna be bound to MY code. My own rules and principles, not some stupid written rules." I turn to my friend. "I want to be a hero that doesn''t bow to the norm, if that even makes sense."


    "Don''t worry dude, you''ll figure it out soon. Anyway, I''m gonna go check the hero''s out. I''ll see you!"


    *High five*


    As I watch my friend leave, I turn my attention to the giant in the room. Raven, who''s got an entire crowd already surrounding him. Or is it a her? I don''t know, nor do i really care.


    "Kak-Yak."


    I jump a little at the call of my name, turning around to come face to face with my teacher.


    "Aren''t you going to join the others? There''s plenty of opportunities here. Collages! Hero schools and much more."


    *Annoyed groan* "Fine sir."


    Annoyed, I head over to the group of kids already listening to Raven speak. I try to overhear what he''s saying, but the amount of students and staff talking prevents me from getting a good jist of what the hero''s even talking about.


    "Ewwww, it''s the freak!"


    "Oh my gosh, why is this loser here!"


    "Freak!"


    *clenches paws*


    "Why are you even here freak? We all know that the cat folk who has multi colored faces are abominations!"


    "Yeah, like, why are you even alive?"Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    "Yeah you look like a doll whose face has been painted over and over again by a toddler!"


    *Grits fangs*


    ("Just ignore them...just...ignore...")


    As the mockery of my appearance died down, I was shocked to find that the hero had made a path forward...to me. I practically froze up as i saw him look down at me. I was like an ant to this giant. This tall, intimidating figure. They kneel, maintaining eye level with me.


    "...I have overheard the other students talking rudely to you. Now that is not a way we treat anyone." He looks to the other students. "Is it?"


    They all practically froze hahahaha!! Scared of being called out! Take that you jerks!


    The hero returns their gaze back to me. "...Tell me, young one. What is your name?"


    "Oh! U-uh, it''s Kak-Yak sir! Kak-Yak."


    "...Hmmm...I shall remember, this name. Kak-Yak."


    I could tell they were thinking about...something, to say I guess, as I just stood there stiff as a rock.


    "Little one. Do not ever, let anyone talk down upon you because of your unusual face markings and colors. In fact, take pride in it. For it is rare of your species to birth one of such a variety of color. Now tell me...what type of hero do you want to be? If you don''t want to be one that is fi-"


    "No!" I say, cutting him off. "I one hundred percent wanna be a hero! But not the usual one!" *Deep breath* "Sir, I want to be a hero that doesn''t follow any rules. Well, written ones at least. I want to be a hero that follows his heart, not the rules of some higher order within an organization or something stupid. Like a guild! They take hero''s money from the things they collect and all that, and don''t even pay them the stuff they exactly found on the adventure!!"


    "..." *low, deep chuckle* "Mainly because guilds and hero associations need to make money from their heros somehow, while still paying them a livable wage.


    However...I do see what you mean, little one. And I am not stranger of going off course of what I''ve been expected to follow."


    "Wait!! You''re like me then!"


    "Perhaps."


    To everyone''s shock and awe, the hero takes off their sheathed sword from its holster...and turns it...to me?!


    "I see great potential in you. You may not realize it now...but I can see that you have a soul that beams with potential, determination and strength. You''ll be a fine hero someday."


    They hand me their sword. As I take it within my grasp, I feel a sense of peace and happiness enveloping me.


    "This weapon is unchanged. Unaltered from when it was created. When you get older, and if you decide to become a hero, you may alter this blade as you see fit. For it is now yours."


    He stands back up, towering over me. "I must get back to the others...don''t forget what I''ve said to you this day, young one."


    They go back to their original position and begins waiting for any students to say their questions to them, with some asking for items from him too. Hahaha!! He, she, whatever, they are gave ME the sword, ME, not you guys!! Take that. Ahahahahaha.


    One gigantic, boring time skip later.


    "I write my woes here, for aging is boring and responsibilities suck big time. Journal, be my venting relief from now on!! Ahahahaha!! Me and you journal till the very end!!!"


    *door creak*


    I quickly slam my journal shut as my mother steps into my room.


    "Yaki." She says, voice both judging and solemn. "Is this really what you want hun? This...hero nonsense, it''s both dangerous and reckless! I wanted you to go to college!"


    "Pfft, i already took the better collage already. The hero one!"


    "Yeah, and you dropped out of it." *sigh* "I know I can''t stop you at this point, so I''ve decided to put together some of my savings for you."


    "W-wha?"


    She hands me a satchel, continuing various goodies, the main one being cold hard cash! Lots too!!


    "Ma, seriously, I don''t need money."


    "Please, take it. To help you with your beginnings as a hero."


    With a sigh, I put the satchel onto my waist bait. "Fiiiiiine. Thanks, ma."


    Silence engulfed the air before she spoke once more. "So when will you be heading out?"


    "Midnight. The prime time!! Ahahaha, for I am the shadow in the night that hunts the beast in the darkness!!"


    "How...heroic, sweetie."


    Whilst gathering all of my things into one big bag, I look up at the clock ticking down on the wall. "Oh!!! It''s already midnight!! Welp, gotta go ma! Hahahah."


    I dash out of the room and run downstairs, exiting the front door all in a matter of seconds. I giggle to myself, taking in the fresh air of adventure!


    "Son."


    I turn around to see my ma at the front door. Seeing tears leaving her eyes, I realized I''m being to...fast, with this. I set aside my bag and go up to her, embracing her.


    "I''ll be sure to send little gifts and treats to you all! Hehehehe, after all I''m gonna be a hero!"


    She didn''t respond, silently taking in the reality that her eldest...was leaving. For good.


    "..." *sigh* "Ma, I''ll visit you guys every once in a while. I promise."


    *Tight squeeze before letting go*


    "I love you mom."


    *Sniffle* "You too, my darling, baby boy."


    And with that, I had let go of everything. My home. My family. Friends too! Heck, and all because I wanna be a hero?! Pfft. It ain''t like I''m not gonna visit my family and home town in the future! Obviously I will!!! But first...adventure awaits AHAHAHAHAHA, soon, soon I''ll make a name for myself!!! As the first ever full moon birthed, Suxarine hero!!! Just you wait and see world. Kak-Yak the fearless will become a legendary hero."

 New arrival

    Along a stone trail, a lone Suxarine writes in his journal.


    "And then I said to him, WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU EAT ROCKS!?! Then he said OH I EAT ROCKS BECAUSE THEY SATIATE ME!!! Me, in awe, watched him eat rocks for the next twenty minutes. That''s when I realized that oh!!! It''s a rock golem. And then-"


    *Ears perk up at the sound of rustling bushes*


    I finish writing down my ranting into my journal, closing and pocketing it before slowly unsheathing my beautiful sword.


    "Hey! Whatever you are. I know you''re there, so come on out and play!! Unless you''re just a wild animal. In which case I look dumb hehe."


    After what felt like eternity in my little little mind, to my surprise, a little human child exits from the bushes, bruised and scratched up. From the tears coming from their eyes, it was clear something bad happened!! Yeah, obviously Kak-Yak! Stop being dumb! Me?! Dumb?! Shhhh, not the time for mental battles.


    Sheathing my weapon, I walk over and kneel. "Hey champ!!! Why are ya so dang hurt? And why was ya in that there bush?"


    *sniffle* "I-I was trying to come out here and study some butterflies. They always come out during this time of season...s-so I was hoping to draw as many butterflies with different patterns to each one." *Winces in pain* "B-but I got careless and ended up tripping and falling along the trail."


    "Hmmm. Welp!! That explains the scratches and stuff. But why the bush? Why go into it? You coulda hit a dang bee nest in there or something!"


    *Sniffle* "I...I was scared. I-I never seen a creature like you before, s-so i thought you were a monster! So I ran and hid!"


    "Good idea!! I can be a terrible terrible monster that steals souls in the night!!!! Hehehe, just kidding."


    *giggle* "You aren''t so scary now mister." *winces In pain once more* "Ow ow ow."


    With a quick sigh, I dig into my satchel for some medical stuff. "Stop moving, gonna fix ya up champ."


    Much much MUCH boring tedious stuff later, the little lad is patched up good as new!!


    "Alright that should fix the little BLEEDING and INFECTION RISK problem. Still recommend you go to your people and let them know of the injuries."


    "I will sir! Thank you! Oh! Mister, are you heading anywhere specific?"


    *tilts head* "No? Whatcha getting at kiddo?"


    "Well, my village doesn''t really receive visitors much, so it''d be nice if you could stop by!! We have a tavern and stuff!"


    *wide smirk* "Tavern ya say? Now THAT sounds dandy." Cogs starts turning in my head as I quickly pull out my map. "Your little place wouldn''t be something called honeycomb village would it?"


    "Oh! Y-yeah, that''s my village!"


    *Wide smirk* "Welp!! No time to dally!! You need to get back to your people, and I need something to feast on in that tavern ya mentioned!!! Honeycomb village! Here, i, come!!"


    Some time later


    After much boring, tedious walking later, the village comes into view. It''s pretty peaceful and friendly looking!!! Wait, what''s the difference between a town and a village again?! What?!?! It''s obvious!! No it''s not!!! Shhhhhh, be quiet! We must...explore!!


    "Hey mister! We''re here!"


    Shaking my head, my mind comes back to me. "That we are!"


    The little human runs into the village, announcing that yes, indeed, a traveler has made his way to their humble village.


    "Everyone!! We have a visitor!"


    The villages inhabitants turn their eyes to me. Obviously, I mean I AM new here after all!


    Smiling, I make myself known. "Yes, it is I!! Kak-Yak!! The fearless and strong!! No monster dare show their face, when I am here!!! AHAHAHAHA!!!" *poses epically*


    Some of them just stared in confusion, others in amusement. The attention was definitely welcomed I say hahaha!


    My right ear twitched, hearing one of the villagers speak.


    "I''ve never seen a Suxarine in person before."


    "Yeah! But I thought they were supposed to only have, like, a single color scheme sometimes, and others two."


    "Yeah, this one''s got, like, five of em."


    "I''d say he''s very colorful though!"


    I basked in it all! The villagers talking about little old me! Wait, I''m not OLD! Why did I say that? Who came up with that anyway?!


    "Hello, stranger."


    I turn to the source of the voice, coming face to face with a rather tall and friendly looking Zirikey woman!


    "MAN ARE YOU BIG!!! I forgot how big your species could get hahahaha!!"


    *giggle* "We are known for being quite large, yes haha. And you, stranger, are very unique. I have never seen a Suxarine with such a variety of colors on their fur." She smiles brightly. "Anyways, welcome to our little home! It isn''t much, but all kind travelers are welcome!" She politely bowed. "I am Nintasha, owner of the village''s tavern, as well as an enchanter in my spare time."


    "An enchanter huh?" BOW KAK-YAK! She did so, so you do it too!! "Hahaha, impressive madam." Gives a bow of my own before regaining form. "As I''ve made known, I am Kak-Yak!! Fighter of monster and the shadow that lurks in night!!, protecting the innocent from the enemy''s that lurk within!!!"


    *giggle* "Ah, I assume you a hero then?"


    "You bet madam!! Ahahaha!! I''m always looking for the next job or adventure!!!"


    *another giggle* "I can tell. Honorable hero, if it is not much, why don''t I show you around our humble little village?"


    *Wide smile* "Of course! Lead the way Ma''am."


    As of now, right here in this moment, I was being shown around this wonderful town!!! Or village?! BAH, to confusing!!! Unlike other places, this humble little place feels right up my alley in turns of places. Cozy!!! Nice people, overall a great place!!!


    "Um, Mr. Kak-Yak?" giggle*


    *shakes head* "What did I miss?!"


    "Hehe, I can see you get distracted easily thinking of things." *She gestures to the blacksmiths abode* "This here is where our blacksmith works! If you need any weapons, he''ll be sure to get the best weapon for you."


    *He waves* "What she said. If you''ve got the coin, I can guarantee you that my weapons will put any mean bugger to rest."


    I flash a wide grin. "Oh you best bet I''m stopping by after this tour!! Hahahaha."


    The smithy gives a cheeky chuckle before going back to his business. Nintasha shows me around a bit more, and I take in the sights!!! Eventually she leads me into her lovely tavern!!! YES, FINALLY!!!


    Stepping inside behind her, i look around, smiling wildly at the cozy and inviting atmosphere the entire place was giving.You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    Ninthara turns to me. "Lastly, we have my humble tavern. It is both my home and business. Speaking of business, I should have stated that I''m also the villages trader! Although it''s been a while since anyone outside the village has traded here."


    "So you''re a tavern owner, enchanter, AND trader?! Amazing!!"


    Ninthara nods. "Thank you, kind hero."


    I walk up to the main counter and plop into a seat. "I hope it''s not much, but, uh, where''s the counter attendee?"


    Walking behind said counter, she speaks. "Hehe, that would be me."


    "Hahahahahaha. Man! I really shoulda seen that coming honestly." Lays head onto counter. "Man!! All this walking around for days made me mighty tired. If it ain''t much, I''d appreciate some meals if you have any!! After all, a tavern must feed its customers hahaha!"


    She nodded. "That it must sir. Oh! Before you do so, please don''t take out any coin, it''ll be on the house this first time sir."


    Slow laugh. "Well, I''m not turning down free food that''s for sure." I pick up a menu. "Hmmm...I''ll take the special of the day, because I''m too lazy and tired to decide right now."


    She nods. "Coming right up sir."


    As I sit, basking in the warm atmosphere, my ears twitch as I hear the doors to the tavern open up. I don''t look to see who it is. I mean why would I? Tired as is.


    My ears listened to the stranger in the tavern, taking some steps and taking seat at a table nearby. Some boring seconds of silence later, my ears are blessed with music! From the sounds it''s coming from a flute. So. This place seems to have a music player. Or bard. I forget. Whatever though, I''m loving this music though.


    Nearly falling to sleep in the peaceful comforts of the tavern, I hear the clank of a plate next to me. I jolt up, smelling the beautiful aroma of the food that''s presented in front of me.


    "Here you are sir. I hope you have a wonderful meal! If you need anything I''ll be in the back! Just yell for me if you need anything."


    Low chuckle. "Will do madam, will do. NOW!!! To feast!!!"


    Some time later


    After feasting on much much food, I lean back, giggling to myself. Yep. This is already the best place I''ve been to in over three months!!


    "U-um, excuse me s-"


    "WAH!!!"


    I fall out of my seat, making a fool out of myself.


    "Oh I''m so sorry, I didn''t mean to startle you!"


    Chuckling, I stand back up quickly. "No no, you just caught me off guard is all." Dusting my clothing, I come face to face with a human woman. Ok Kak Yak! Use your head! You didn''t hear a door open, so she''s probably the one who entered earlier. "Hmmmm, are you the flute player?"


    Nod. "Y-yes. That I am. U-um...is it true what you said before in town?"


    Perks up ears. "Is what true?"


    "That you''re a hero? Like someone who deals with monsters and stuff?"


    "What?! Oh, YES!!! I am indeed a hero!!! One who battles large foes, protects the weak and makes my enemies tremble at my sight!!!"


    "Um...ok?" I see her scratch her head nervously. "Well...I was wondering if you could see if this little myth is true. You see, there''s a rumor that this village has a spirit that lives in the old abandoned house, right by the entrance to the village. It''s been scaring everyone lately. Some say they''ve seen the spirit making crying sounds at night, and others say they haven''t heard anything at all."


    "Hmmm." Think think THINK brain. "From what I can recall, certain people are more in tune with the other side then most. This could explain why some have seen and heard this spirit, while others haven''t. It''s actually why there''s two sides of this, non believers and believers of the other side." *Cheeky grin.* "Don''t worry!! I''ll find out what''s got this ghost so sad! I mean...they ARE dead, but why would they be bound to one place? I shall find out!!"


    The woman nods. "Thank you."


    I immediately sprint out of the tavern and into the cold dead of night. WOW!! It''s night already?! Um, duh!! Time moves dummy! But I too move. So what does that make me? Shush!!! Go investigate. The house. At the entrance of the village.


    I make my way to this so called HAUNTED HOUSE. Wait. Why did I need to yell that in my head? Shut up! Go investigate! House! Now!


    Stepping up to the worn down home, I turn the knob to the entrance. And yes, it opened. So it''s not locked! Now I don''t have to bust a window open. I step inside and make myself known.


    "Hello!!! Spirit!! If there is a spirit here, at this moment, please do something! Um...please? Or else I''m going to look crazy just shouting at nothing!!


    Silence. Ah silence. So...silent like. I mean I don''t know what I was expecting. Investigation time!!


    I comb my way through the house, looking for any spooky. Like peas! Peas are scary because they''re disgusting!! Hey!! Peas aren''t for everyone. So?! They suck for me! Ok?! Others still like them! You have your OWN opinions just like everyone else!


    Shaking my head, I get back to exploring! And find nothing, as suspected. Man! This is so dang boring!! Oh wait...what''s this?!


    I pick up a photo from within the decrepit living rooms giant table. Within the photo are two individuals. A man and a woman. The man was a Wolfian, while the woman was Suxarine! Awwww they look so happy!


    The more I looked at the photo, the more I felt...chills. I mean it IS cold outside. Wait!! What''s that noise...is that...crying? From behind me?!


    I quickly turn around, setting the photo down. To my surprise, I see a blue spirit, just kinda hanging out right here. In front of me. Crying. Wait...why is it crying though?


    "Um...hello! Spirit. I am Kak-Yak!! Slayer of monsters and defender of justice!!!" *Poses epically*


    Despite my beautiful introduction, the spirit was still crying and crying and CRYING! Man, I wonder what''s got it so sad like this.


    "Um. What''s with the crying? Like seriously." *Cogs start turning in head* "...Oh...wait...wait wait wait wait."


    Expression shifts. "I...wait." Grabs picture. "Um, if you can hear me, spirit. If you can understand my words from the other side." Shows photo. "Are you perhaps within this here photo? The Wolfian? Suxarine?"


    A ghostly, spectral hand formed from this spirit, as it pointed to the woman within the photo. Her wails...cry''s...it...it broke my heart.


    "...I see, ma''am." Sits photo down. "If you are able to communicate, tell me, what has you bound to this home?"


    The spirit moved on over to the mirror on the nearby wall. Writing on the mirror using all of her strength, the spirit spells out the words "Ring."


    "A ring? So a ring is what has you bound to this place. I see." Walks up to the spirit. "So you''ve lost your marriage ring is what I''m assuming. Hmmm." *scratches head* "Ok. Don''t worry miss, I''m going to find that ring for you. Don''t worry."


    Kak-Yak scoured through the home, dead set on finding the ring of this deceased wife. Through the search, the spirit followed closely behind, staying silent as to not disrupt this stranger helping her.


    Eventually, within the upstairs masters bedroom, Kak-Yak looked through the last place he hadn''t looked. As he searched throughout the room, in the corner a chest caught his eye. He went over to open it, slowly peeking inside to reveal its contents. Rather than coin or loot, instead it was lots and lots of letters. Picking one of them up, Kak-Yak read.


    "Dear my beloved. Although my family has slain you, you will forever be in my heart. I cannot bare to live without your light within my life. And thus I have decided to finally join you in everlasting peace."


    Those words stung the heroic Suxarine deep. If this was but one of the many writings, he figured it best to just see if the ring was actually in the chest. Sure enough, with enough digging, Kak-Yak felt the cold hard material press against his paws. He took out the ring and looked at it shortly.


    "Welp! That took a surprisingly long time to find." I turn to the spirit. "Is this it ma''am?"


    The spirit, extending its ghostly hand took the ring from out of my grasp, placing it upon her ring finger.


    The room became warm. Which is better than cold in this situation I suppose.


    My gaze turned towards another apparition next to the one before me. It took on the form of the Wolfian husband within the picture from before, while the other spirit shifted its unreadable form to that of the Suxarine. Here they were. The two individuals from the photo.


    My ears twitch I hear a ghostly voice come from the Wolfian.


    "Kind stranger. We are forever grateful for what you have done for us. It may have seemed like a simple task, but you have ensured that my wife is not bound to this place, anymore."


    Wide smile, I stand firm. "No worries here! I know how hard it must have been to try and get the ring back from the other side. After all, simply communicating with me takes lots of toll on your bodies on the other side after all."


    The Suxarine woman nodded. "Yes. Which is why I took a gamble and simply wrote ring, for using all of my strength to write out a long sentence would have been fruitless. It is also why i didn''t just tell you where the ring was. I tried so, so many times to get it back myself...but I just couldn''t in this weakened form."


    *nod* "I understand fully ma''am."


    "Also, kind stranger, the note you had found. I...I was in a dark place when I wrote it. You have to understand...losing my darling husband, was unbearable. However, I did not do the act of self harm. I died of natural causes. That being a deadly disease, sadly."


    "Ah, I see. Well, I''m just happy to have brought you two together. To live happily with one another in the afterlife."


    As I watch the twos spectral forms start to slowly vanish, the Wolfian speaks up. "Also, kind stranger. This home, although decrepit and old, can still use a new owner. If you wish, you may take ownership of it. After all, it isn''t like anyone will stop you. Who wants a broken down home anyways. But somehow, I can tell that you''ll find a way to refurnish and repair it."


    *Grin* "Really?!?! You''re just giving me the place?!"


    *They both nod* "You have helped us. So it is only fair. Also, you are free to make anything that is within the home into yours. It isn''t like we''ll need it anymore."


    I give a respectful nod as the two slowly start to disappear before me. "I thank you two, truly. May you two live in peace and love forever."


    They both give me a wave before vanishing, as if they were never there to begin with.


    "..." I look around before a thought comes to my head. "Wait?! Did i seriously just get confirmation from spirits to use their old home?! Yes. Yes I did."


    With this situation over and done with, Kak-Yak decided to pass out asleep on the nearby couch. After all, he was beyond tired, and didn''t care about the potential spiders hanging out on the couch.

 Ok, city girl

    Within the inn/tavern in Honeycomb village, Kak-Yak was laughing and talking to the townspeople, who all gathered here today to celebrate his success after yesterday.


    "Wait wait wait, you''re telling me that you went inside, came across this spirit thing, found its ring, and it just gave you its home from when it was still alive?"


    "YEAH!! It''s true! But um, more technical things had to be explained to me by the spirits husband."


    "Sure lad, suuuure."


    (Protagonists pov.)  Man!! I never expected simply helping with a ghost problem would''ve gotten me this much recognition. Well, ain''t like I DON''T like the attention hahaha!!


    My ears perked up at the sound of the tavern door opening up.


    "Hey Ninthara, stopping by to check up on everyone. Dang hero''s association is at my neck right now."


    Turning her attention to the counter...she sets her eyes on...me!!! Wait, this isn''t a villager. Yeah! I ain''t never seen her before. Oh!!! That rough expression, those glistening eyes! Yep, this here''s a Wolfian folks.


    "..."


    She slowly makes her way over to the counter, making sure to take the farthest seat away from me. Rude!!! Maybe she''s just not that fond of sitting BY A STRANGER! I mean using basic logic she DID say she was quite on quote, checking on everyone. So she HAS been here before.


    I go back to basking in the warm atmosphere of the tavern, listening to the many conversations within, although I can''t help but glance over at this stranger here and now.


    I notice Nithara appear from behind her private room in the back, looking surprised to see the Wolfian. This surprised expression is immediately replaced with a smile as she goes to greet the Wolfian. Wait...did she say something about hero association?! Pfft, she''s definitely a hero then, but one of those snot nosed ones. Wait!!! Don''t go judging Kak-Yak!! You know nothing of this woma-


    My thoughts are immediately haltered at my ears twitching. Not at the sounds of villagers though...but at the stranger.


    "Hey Ninthara. Long time no see."


    "Ah, Lyra! It''s always so nice to see you again."


    Hmmm...Lyra...Lyra Lyra Lyra...unique name...interesting, wait, why am I paying any attention to this complete stranger?!! Stop being weird Kak-YaK!!


    (No pov.)


    "So how''s everyone been? No monster sighting or bandits right?"


    Ninthara nods. "Yes, which is very fortunate for us. We are situated somewhere where most monsters and evil doers never even visit, mainly due to the seclusion and lack of any value over here."


    "Hmmm." Lyra sighs. "You guys rarely get travelers. What''s with him?"


    "Oh. He''s a hero who recently journeyed here yesterday. He actually helped us with our ghost problem last night."


    "What? Ghost problem?"


    *nod* "One of the owners of the run down home must have passed away, so their spirit stuck to the home, crying and wailing at night over and over for a ring. Well, that''s at least what Kak-Yak told us."


    Genuine confused stare. "Kak-Yak? That''s his name? Seriously?"


    *Giggle* "Yep. Remember, all intelligent species name one another differently after all."


    *head shake* "You said he''s a hero huh? He doesn''t look like one from the city."


    *shrug* "City or not, he''s a joy to have around the village. He brightens up this little place, and he''s only been here a day. Did I mention he helped patch up little Masons wounds? He had hurt himself outside the village chasing butterflies."


    "He did huh." She glances at him before returning her gaze to Ninthara. "The stranger aside, how''s been the village? Everyone ok? Good on supplies and food?"


    "Oh yes very!" *Bright smile* "Please Lyra, you don''t have to worry about us." *Smile is replaced with a serious, yet worried expression.* "What of you dear? I know your work is hard after all, I don''t want stress to take its toll on you."


    "I''m fine. It''s just that the recent spring in monster activity near the city has got the association tense. And you know lower ranking heros can''t fight S rank and higher monsters."


    *nod* "Which leaves higher ranks like you needing to fend them off. Hmm, I know, let me do this to perhaps cheer you up a bit." She closes her eyes, hums a tune for a bit. Everyone within the tavern takes not of this, enjoying the sweet sounds blessing this place at the moment. Eventually Ninthara stops and replaces her worried look with that of a cheery one. "My my, sadness isn''t good for the heart. So let''s fix that stress with some good old food, some nice drinks and friends! Remember, the village will always be here for you Lyra."


    The Wolfian nods, a small smile present. "Yeah, you guys always know how to cheer me up. Especially with you playing your little humming melody''s."


    And so. The tavern continued with its bustling activity, everyone laughing, singing, and enjoying the wonderful atmosphere of such a peaceful community. Unbeknownst to everyone inside, just an hour later, a stranger would make themselves known.


    The doors to the tavern swung open as a middle aged human entered, looking pretty mad.


    "Excuse me, everyone!! May I have everyone''s attention!"


    Sure enough everyone turned to look at the stranger.


    "Thank you. Now, ahem, although the chances are very slim, is anyone here a hero by any chance? I''ll pay!"


    *Sigh* "I am, si-"


    (POV change.) "Not to worry good sir!!! For I, Kak-Yak the fearless is a hero! Ready to smite down any evil doers and destroy any monsters who dares harm the peace!!"


    I posed epically, as usual hehehe.


    "...Ok. Well, good hero, a blasted Rock troll has stolen my bag filled with valuable documents!! I need them for important business within the city!!! I will pay handsomely for you to get it back!"


    "Hehehehe, don''t worry sir! That Rock troll will regret stealing your documents!!!"


    My ears hear a groan!! But from where the source! Well none other than the Wolfian!! Who doesn''t really look too pleased at me. What did I do wrong?!


    Before I could speak up, the strange, oddly dressed man spoke up. "Ahem, anyway, if you''ve a map hero I shall mark the approximate location of where those brain dead buffoons took off with my stuff!"


    Buffoons? So multiple rock trolls?! This just gets better and better. Before i could even get back to reality, he had already marked the location on my map. I watched as he went to sit down and take out a book. Maybe to read? What kind of question is that dummy, obviously?!


    "Psst. You."


    I immediately turn towards the voice! And it comes from...wait...the Wolfian?! "Oh!! Hello ma''am!"


    "...Yeah...hello." *Sigh* "So you''re a hero huh?." *Crosses arms* "Which school did you attend?"Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "School?! What, like school school?"


    *Look of annoyance* "No, I meant the school you took to become a hero."


    "Oh...uhhh...well, I mean I DID take a hero school. It was the school of the warrior!!


    "..." *Quick sigh* "What rank are you then?"


    "...What?! Rank?" The heck''s a rank?! Oh!! Could it be like a thing to show off with!! Probably. Yeah, probably.


    "Are you serious?" I could see she was getting a little angry. "How can you be a hero but don''t know your own rank?"


    I give a quick shrug. "Because a hero doesn''t need a rank. Duh!"


    "You cannot be serious right now." She holds her head. Huh. Wonder why. "Are you a dropout? Is that why you have zero clue what hero ranks are?"


    "Yep!! Dropped out because all the stuff was pointless!"


    "Gods, you''re actually serious." *Long, annoyed sigh. Despite this she maintains a professional attitude afterwards* "Ok, hero. How about I join you, in case a situation arises where another hero''s help is needed. Ok?"


    "Help?!" Smirk. "Well, another hero joining me WOULD be helpful, so sure!!! Man, I''ve always wanted to do a job with another hero."


    "Welp today''s the day, now c''mon, those trolls aren''t going to slay themselves."


    And with that, me and...Lyra?! Yeah, Lyra!! Me and Lyra set out for the location these blasted trolls were!!!


    On the path forward, I speak lots to Lyra! Mainly about my wonderful stories i hold within my brain! Eventually an actual question forms in my little noodle!


    "Hey, you aren''t just tagging along because you think I''m not that good!? Right?!"


    *Side look* "I will not lie. You say you are a hero, but you have not graduated the school you have taken. You could have learned some valuable hero skills during your time within said school, yet you could also have dropped out before any actual meaningful skills and knowledge was taught to you. So in conclusion, yes, I am tagging along to make sure you don''t wander into a rock trolls den and get crushed to death. However, if you have the skills to back up being the hero you claim to be, I would gladly observe you."


    "Hehehehehe, oh don''t worry!!! I''m gonna show off ALL of my tricks! Wait...hmm...now that I''m thinking about it, from what i know, rock trolls aren''t normally aggressive. So why would they randomly go out of their way to attack someone?"


    "Who knows. If a peaceful solution can be won over with words, we shall use that." She looks to me once more. "You''ll be doing the talking though. Hero''s need both combat skill, as well as diplomatic skills."


    "And you think I don''t have diplomacy skills?! Pfft, watch! As the great Kak-Yak comes to an agreement with the Rock Trolls!!!"


    Me and this so called Lyra proceeded to the trolls approximate territory!!! I mean we were already walking, just thought I''d confirm it hahahahha!!!


    Yada yada yada bla bla bla, much BORING walking later we arrive!! Man this place stinks. Stinky cave.


    "Hehehe, now watch!! As I lure the Rock Trolls out of the smelly cave. HEY!! Kind kind Trolls, I come to talk!!!"


    *Crosses arms* "This should be good."


    Around three Rock Trolls exited from within the cave. Man!!! Rock Trolls look so friendly!!! "Hello!! I am Kak-Yal!!! I have come to discuss the release of some documents, that you all have stolen from a well dressed man."


    The three trolls look to one another other, then back to me. "N-no!!! Man da one, who shine light at troll!!"


    "Yes!!! Trolls, no like flashy flashy lights!! So we scare man!!!"


    I nod. "Uh uh uh huh, so why take his bag though? It''s supposedly just boring papers inside! Papers ARE boring."


    "Food!!!"


    "Yes, food!!! Smell food inside bag, so we takes it!!!"


    "Yes!!! Man run in fear and drop bag bag! So we take bag for ourselves!!!"


    "I see I see." Uses max brain power to determine a peaceful outcome. "So friendly trolls, will you three be willing to hand over the bag? You can keep the food of course haha, I just need the boring papers and the bag itself."


    I see one scratch its head. "It bag. Bag boring."


    "Very boring."


    "Taste like dirt!!!"


    Hahahaha, I love these trolls already. "Yeah!! Bag taste nasty, like burnt rubber! So you''d be willing to hand over bag right?"


    They all look at one another before back to me. "Do favor, fo trolls! We give bag after!"


    "Oh, uh, sure! What''s the favor?"


    The three rock trolls discuss in what they want me to do in exchange for the bag of documents. Man oh man, this is definitely one of my weirdest moments. I mean I''m talking to rock trolls?! And people say all monsters are bad.


    "Kitty kitty! Trolls, come up with favor!"


    "Yes yes!!"


    "Kitty and wolf, go and help trolls with problem. Stupid stupid thing annoying at night!! In troll cave and make loud noises! Multiple! Troll too slow to deal with. Wolf and Kitty BAM annoying bug!! And troll give kitty and wolf nasty bag!!!"


    Silent laugh. "Alright alright, we''ll BAM this little bug problem of yours!"


    They all looked at one another before giving...um...troll cheers? I dunno it was weird. They pretty much went back into their cave to do whatever it is trolls do. Oh!! Maybe they have their own little troll games or something! That''d be rad.


    (No POV.)


    Kak-Yak turned to face Lyra. "See?! What did I tell ya!! I CAN be diplomatic. If I can reason with rock trolls, I can reason with anyone!"


    *eye roll* "Not anyone. Rock Trolls are dumb, but can still be reasoned with. Their basic levels of intelligence only allow for basic communication and understanding, which allows them to easily be negotiated with. Also means they don''t typically lie often. So that''s a bonus, I guess."


    The two spent a good while trying to find this so called bug problem within the troll''s cave. Eventually Kak-Yak and Lyra stumbled across giant holes within the caves floor, with large marks clawing at the exiting. Our hero goes up and studies the marks.


    "Hmmm...from the markings...yep, definitely giant Mantises."


    *Lyra looked to him* "For someone who dropped out, you know your monster marks well. Yes, these are indeed giant mantis Markings."


    He laughed proudly, placing a paw over his heart as he posed. "Well I''m not the great Kak-Yak for nothing. Hehehe."


    Looking through the rough and stoic expression, there was the ever slightest hints of a smirk on Lyra''s muzzle. She kneels down, examining the markings more closely. "Giant mantises can''t cut open solid ground like, so this leaves only one explanation, we''re dealing with armored Giant Mantises." *Sigh* "Just my luck."


    *Clicking sounds*


    The two snap their gazes to the noise. Crawling from out another hole, is a giant armored mantis. Slowly standing up, Lyra quickly digs into her waist bag and takes out a device. "When I say run, you run, got it?"


    "Oh, uh, yea, sure."


    Arming the device, Lyra chucks it inside the nearby hole. "Run!"


    The two hero''s make a beeline for the entrance to the cave, a loud explosion ringing throughout the cave. Reaching the entrance, the two take a collective breather.


    "Man that was about to get bad." He turns to Lyra. "You coulda collapsed the cave on us or something! Why''d you use a bomb?!"


    "It was a controlled explosive, dummy. One specifically designed for clearing monster dens and nest." Her expression hardens, turning her gaze behind her. "I only managed to destroy only one nest though. If there''s one, there''s bound to be more. Some of them are definitely still kicking."


    Sure enough, multiple Armored, giant, and really mad mantises rush for the entrance.


    "What big noise is?!"


    The three rock trolls from before return, only to see that their home has been infested with Armored mantises. Doing what they do best, the three rock trolls engage the mantises.


    *sigh* "C''mon, we need to help clear these things."


    "Right!!"


    Kak-Yak unsheathed his blade, ready to fend off the cruel monsters! As for Lyra, instead of any weaponry, she instead cast a magical barrier spell on herself and Kak-Yak as she fires off some spells towards the Mantises.


    "Hehehehe, thanks for the barrier Lyra!!"


    Using a mixture of speed and power, Kak-Yak fearlessly vanquished one after another of the armored creatures, occasionally mixing in a variety of fighting styles.


    Lyra stared in both bewilderment and admiration as this Suxarine, who she hasn''t even known for a day, fearlessly vanquish one after another of the mantises. What really caught her off guard was his unique ability to swap between fighting styles effortlessly. Most hero''s just stick to a single style...but this complete, random stranger she''s just met already looks like he has years of experience, despite having dropped out of his own hero school.


    "HAHAHAHAHA, come at me buggers, just because you''ve got some armored bodies doesn''t mean you''re safe from me!! Hehehehehe, oops!! Missed me didn''t ya, oops! Missed again, hehehe."


    Soon, after countless fighting, the swarm ceased as a pile of vanquished armored mantises littered the area. Almost immediately, Kak-Yak rushes inside to speak to the trolls. As for Lyra, she just stands there, thinking deeply.


    Eventually our hero steps outside, holding up a bag. "Hey!!! I got the bag! And yes, the trolls didn''t eat the documents. I mean yeah they''re a bit stained but they should still be good!"


    "As long as they are intact, that''s all that matters. Now c''mon, getting sick of breathing in troll smell."


    And thus began the two hero''s journey back to honeycomb village. As Kak-Yak told stupid and obscure stories on the way back, Lyra kept on thinking back on something deep in her mind. The strange fur and color patterns that Kak-Yak has. Surly he couldn''t be...no, it''s too low of a chance. After all, one had already existed before. But that doesn''t mean there couldn''t be another...right?

 Latent abilites

    "WOAH!!! All this just for bringing back some boring documents?!"


    The well dressed man nodded. "Of course!! You should know that city business is important for people like me dead boy! Now if you''ll excuse me, I''ve need to get back to the city. Ahem, guardsman!!! Do your jobs, chap chap."


    The guardsman escort the well dressed fellow out of the inn as Kak-Yak stared shockingly upon the coin in front of him. "It''s...so...much...wooooooow." He looks to a table, where Lyra is sitting, in deep thought as she reads through something. "Hey Lyra!! We both helped him!! Why don''t we share the coin?!"


    With a wave of her paw, she dismissed the idea. "No, keep it. Besides I''ve enough money as is being a high ranking hero. Now please be quiet, reading something very important here."


    "Oh. Ok!!!"


    (Kak-Yak pov.) Man oh man!!! What do I even DO with this much coin. Surly I can buy some new gear!! Oh!!! Or buy myself a horse or something!!! So many options!


    (No POV.) Thinking, Kak-Yak eventually decided on what to do with the coin. Turning to Ninthara as she cleaned some plates, he spoke up. "Hey Ninthara, if it isn''t too much, could i borrow some paper. I um, I want to write a quick letter right quick."


    "Oh! Sure thing."


    Receiving the paper from her, Kak-Yak began writing a letter to his folks and friends back home. His usual goofy and silly expressions were gone, replaced with one of focus and seriousness.


    All was quiet within the inn. Well, except for the inns bard playing some songs here and there. The peaceful atmosphere mixed with the calming sounds of music made for a relaxing evening.


    Sitting in one of the back tables, Lyra scanned through a book written about the many various, intelligent species the world has. Eventually with enough flipping of the pages, she landed on the section dedicated to Suxarine''s. Already having read up on most intelligent species backgrounds in the past, she already knew of the unique technology within their mysterious homeland. As well as their adept knowledge and mastery of all magical types and abilities.


    Flipping the pages, she landed on a page that described a certain type of Suxarine. One born during a full moon. According to the written words, a Suxarine born during a full moon is an extremely rare and unusual occurrence. In Suxarine culture, it is widely believed that these specific Suxarine are blessed, said to wield latent and powerful magical abilities bestowed upon their very souls. This blessing is said to come from an ancient god the Suxarine worship known only, as Aza-Riel, the first ever Suxarine to ever live. It is unclear as to why he chooses to bless certain Suxarine during the full moon specifically, but it goes unquestioned as the species doesn''t pry into their gods wisdom and choices.


    As for why full moon birthed Suxarine are born with such a wide diverse coloring scheme and patterns on their bodies, this goes unknown, even by the most high ranking of the Suxarine. Some within the species speculate it to symbolize unity within a single Suxarine, while others simply point it to Aza-Riel making it easier for those with his moon blessing to show off. Who knows.


    "Well, that explains his diverse coloring scheme." Lyra says to herself. "I''m going to assume he never grew up within the Suxarine homeland. Actually, scratch that, he definitely didn''t. He''s way too cheerful and outgoing. Suxarine are introverts and usually keep to themselves ninety percent of the time."


    Flipping to the last page going over full moon birthed Suxarine, Lyra reads about the powers that these certain Suxarine are blessed with. It states that latent, untapped powers lie deep within these Suxarine, and that each full moon birthed Suxarine are given different abilities based off of the personality of their souls. As stated however, these abilities are latent, and can only be tapped into with help from other Suxarine, or through accidental means.


    "..." She flips to the next page, but it''s just going over dragons. With a silent sigh, she closes the book, putting it into her satchel. Looking over to where Kak-Yak was sitting, she sees that he''s disappeared. Most likely going to place his letter into the courier mail box outside the inn. She thinks on if she should tell him about his blessing, his unique gift bestowed upon him by this Suxarine god.


    Loud, beeping sound rings from Lyra''s waist belt. Unlocking a holster from it, she takes out a communicator device, holding it up to her ear. "Lyra speaking."


    A gruff, annoyed voice came from the other side, most likely an elf. "Yes Lyra, we could use the assistance of a nearby hero, we''re currently engaging a powerful golem. Its enchantments are annoying. But with your adept magic usage, we could make this fight less of a pain. Also, you''re the only hero close enough adept in magic. In short, we need a mage. Sending our coordinates to your radar. Bye bye."


    With a sigh, Lyra got up from her seat and left the tavern, heading for the coordinates sent to her radar device.


    However, as one hero left the town, another stayed, this hero being no one other than Kak-Yak obviously, who was observing the decrepit house he was so kindly given by the ghost couple from before.


    "Seriously everyone, no need to help me clean the place, I can do it on my own haha."


    A villager spoke up. "No no, we insist! After all you helped the village with its spirit problem after all."


    "Aye lad, as well as helped that complete stranger today. We''d be rude not to at least help ya clean up a bit, transform this place into your own. I''d say you earned it for having helped put the spirit of the woman who lived here to rest."


    The woman who told Kak-Yak about the spirit nodded. "You didn''t even question me about how much I would pay you for it, you didn''t even stop to ask if I even would pay you, w-which I mean I was going to do, but you ran out so fast I didn''t even have time to discuss it. Most hero''s usually ask for payment for such things...but you were more focused on just helping our little village."


    Scratching his head, Kak-Yak spoke up. "Well, hero''s should be what the name implies. A hero. Hero''s shouldn''t do what they do for money, they should do it to help protect those that can''t protect themselves. Now yes, Hero''s need to make money somehow I get that, but money shouldn''t be the entire point of, well, being a hero! Which is why I''ve never accepted any coin from those who needed it more than me."This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    Everyone just stared in admiration. They''ve never met someone who was so...selfless, even a hero. Well, except for a certain Wolfian that is.


    "Kak-Yak is your name right?" Said a middle aged man. "You know Lyra right? Course you do she was withcha in the inn. She''s kinda like you. Selfless, doesn''t care about the coin and all that buzz. Now i don''t know where she went off too, but if she comes back today, you could try and pester her about having you tag along with her. I''ve a feeling you two might just hit it off if ya catch my meaning lad."


    "Jacob!"


    "What I say? It''s true, the two of them would be an amazing duo together!" He looks to Kak-Yak. "Trust me lad. Pester her enough, and she''ll definitely agree. If you had eyes in the inn, ya coulda seen what I was talking about if you glanced at her hehehe."


    "Jacob, seriously stop!"


    With a chuckle, Kak-Yak speaks up. "It''s alright ma''am, I enjoy the thought. Don''t worry, I''ll definitely pester her when she comes back! Wait, she left? Didn''t even know that."


    Arriving from the Inn, Ninthara speaks up. "Well if it isn''t too much, let''s all begin helping our new friend here clean up his new abode shall we?"


    A collective cheer rung through the air as everyone began helping clean and furnish the home. The villages bard played some tunes for everyone as they all spent the rest of the day cleaning and helping refurnish everything.


    After hours of work, it was now nighttime. Everyone had did their best cleaning the home. Turning towards everyone, Kak-Yak speaks. "I cannot thank you all enough, seriously you all are the best!"


    *nod* "Do not thank us. After all, it''s only right for us to have helped you, for having helped us."


    "Welp, night time folks. Don''t know about you but I''m going to bed."


    "Yeah same here."


    "Me too."


    Everyone collectively headed back to their homes, ready to enjoy some nights rest. Entering his newly touched up place, Kak-Yak grinned from head to toe at his new abode. "Hehehehe, good job Kak-Yak!! Good job."


    He plopped onto the nearby sofa, too lazy to actually head to a room and get into bed. Sure enough, he drifted into sleep, as all do when tired...obviously.


    ...


    Meanwhile, elsewhere during the night, another hero was having a not so peaceful rest. Instead, this hero was in a pretty rough situation at the moment.


    "HOW MANY ARE THERE?!" A guardsman says


    "How the blazes should I know?! Just retreat!!!"


    Under heavy attack by multiple fire golems, the guardsman within the unknown hideout draw back, letting the heros on the scene deal with the situation.


    "Halt. Tell us the situation."


    "Yes! A maniac is creating golems with his little hideout, absolutely going ballistic down there. We went to investigate, but were bombarded by fireballs. One of us is still trapped down there!"


    A heavily armored hero stepped forward, leading the others. "Don''t worry, we''ll save him. You all just sit back and wait for us to handle this."


    Lyra, one of the hero''s about to head down, follows the others as the golem''s sounds echoed through the maniacs hideout. In advance she cast a defensive spell around the group as they make their way deeper.


    Arriving upon a magical shielded barrier, the mage within speaks. "Back off hero''s, only I can read the I knowledge this place hides."


    Looking to Lyra, one of them speaks. "Welp, magical barriers tend to fall easier when another mage attacks it. Go on, show him he''s not the only mage here."


    *sigh* Casting a disruption spell, Lyra focuses her energy onto the barrier.


    "Alright, you better surrender once this barrier comes down." The elven archer said.


    *Cackle* "Let''s see, a human, elf, dwarf and Wolfian party huh? Hahaha, you think you''re enough to stop my golems?! Go on, BREAK the barrier, I don''t need it. It''s merely to delay your demises!"


    The barrier breaks pretty quickly, causing the Mage to freak out. Immediately the hero''s move in, Lyra casting a disruption spell to hinder the golems within.


    The human, clad in steel armor and a full plated helmet begins attacking, being the party''s tanking force. The elven archer, using an advanced technique, fired a flurry of shots towards the mage, the arrows being enchanted with homing. The dwarven warrior shouted a chant, granting his party a temporary boost in their overall power as he rushed the many golems. As for Lyra, she just made sure the party was all protected with her spells, occasionally firing off a missile like attack made up of magical energy towards the enemy mage.


    The fighting continued on, and the hero''s inevitably had gotten the upper hand, cornering the mage as his creations were defeated one after the other. His inner mana had likely been drained completely due to his many golem creations.


    "Hahahaha, what?! Going to capture me now?! Hero''s?! Why don''t you all just finish the job? After all i severely hurt a guardsman who tried to stop me! He''s probably not going to make it no-"


    *BANG*


    "GAH!!!"


    The mage fell back against the wall, wounded in the left leg. Turning to the source of the shot, the group saw the guardsman mentioned, slumped against the wall holding his weapon at the mage. He let out a deep chuckle before dropping his weapon, holding his deep wound.


    "I''ll take care of the guardsman, you three deal with him."


    Heading over to the guardsman, Lyra kneeled down and began to heal him with healing magic. "You shouldn''t have shot him, we had the situation under control."


    A deep chuckle rung through his helmet, but he stayed silent. After a spell, his wounds were healed. Lyra helped him up to his feet.


    Turning to the party, she saw that the mage was bound in cuffs, being escorted outside. She followed them, eventually reaching the exit.


    "Hey!! There''s Rook!"


    "Eyyy!"


    The other two guardsman from before went over to greet their pal. "We heard a shot ring out from down there. And judging from the poor buggers leg, you didn''t let him get away with hurting you!"


    "..."


    "Always silent Rookie. That''s what we like about ya! C''mon."


    Lyra watched as they left. She closed her eyes for a bit, sighing. Couple of seconds passed until someone from the party spoke up. "Lyra! Stop sulking and come on, obviously you want your cut of the pay."


    Opening her eyes, Lyra stepped forward and was greeted by a Guardsman Captain. "From the threat level of the mage and the info described to us, he has been deemed an S rank encounter. And since this was an encounter that up and happened, we have gathered coin from our command post to use as payment. Here."


    He hands her a stuffed coin pouch before leaving. She quickly pockets it, looking to the night sky as her thoughts linger in her mind. She feels it best to return to honeycomb village, ease her mind and catch some rest there. After all it''s the closest village. As well as the only place she truly feels at home with.

 A growing friendship

    Staring up at the now clean home, Lyra looks to Kak-Yak. "I take it the villagers helped." *Yawn* "Didn''t even notice the...touch up, when I came back last night."


    "Like it?!" Kak-Yak said, eyes closed as he posed heroically.


    With the faintest of smiles, she responded. "Mhm, it''s certainly...homey."


    Giggling, he invited her inside. "Come on!! I can show you what i myself have done this morning, hehehehe."


    Stepping inside, she takes note of the tidy, well kept home. Sliding to the kitchen, Kak-Yak brews some coffee as he cooked. "Make yourself at home!! You actually just arrived whilst I was cooking breakfast."


    Sitting on the nearby sofa, she eyed him as he hummed a tune, cooking up a storm. ("Funny. Never imagined him to be a good cooker. The more you know I suppose.") She thinks to herself. "Wanna say something. You haven''t even know me this long, and you''re just up and inviting me in like this? Only reason the village accepted you so fast is due to Ninthara reading you like a book, and deduced you weren''t a threat. That and the spirit issue being solved."


    *grin* "Oh my poor heart, how it weeps so at your words!" *Chuckle* "C''mon, I''m just me after all! Why would I ever have ill intent, EVER?! After all, I am the one and only Kak-Yak, fighter of monsters and evil!"


    He does a pose, one again, and raises the pan he''s holding into the air. The contents within, by a severe stroke of luck land onto the plate on the counter.


    "Whoops. Hehehehe."


    *Light laugh* "You have got to be the biggest, most unpredictable enigma of an individual I''ve ever met."


    Smiling widely, he finished up the finishing touches of his breakfast and made two plates. He happily walked over to Lyra, setting two plates down as Kak-Yak plopped onto the spot beside Lyra. "Hey! Remember the two stories I told you on our way to those rock trolls?!"


    Nodding, Lyra picked up a piece of bacon with a fork "Yes, I remember."


    "Well, this one time, I was-"


    Kak-Yak started rambling about his absurd stories. Most would find them ridiculous and made up, And Lyra did at first, but her usual attitude towards them from yesterday was gone completely, replaced with carefree laughs and giggles.


    "And then I''m there, standing utop the bugger as squirms under me in shame and defeat, hahahahaha! And the miners all collectively cheered! Hahaha. After that, it was no longer a dungeon, but a mine reopened to its prior glory hahahaha!!!" Grinning, he springs up. "I''m all exited now!!! Now I wanna explore a dungeon again!! Man, imagine I could find something cool!!! Like a legendary artifact or something!!!"


    Finishing her food, Lyra gently sets down her utensils, the sunlight from the windows illuminating beautiful off the material. "Hold on, you can''t just go into random dungeons and expect it to be a breeze. Besides, it''d be hard to find one without having a detailed map."


    Wide grin, he digs into his bag on the table and takes out his map. "Map huh? Huh?! Hehehehe, I have a map RIIIIIGHT here hahahaha! Time to go exploring some dungeons!!" Looking to her, he smirks. "You know, two hero''s in a dungeon is better than one don''t you think? Think about it, we could destroy any monster or evil doer in a dungeon easily!! With your magic and my fighting abilities, we can make an amazing team hehehehe."


    Not entirely against his wacky idea, she thinks for a bit. "I''m a high ranking hero, I have more important things to do than go dungeon crawling in some random cave, which may not even have anything valuable inside. Besides I could always just accept a mission to clear out a high ranking dungeon."


    "Dungeons have ranks?!!?"


    *nod* "The hero associations, as well as guilds rank dungeons based on their danger and risk level, but it''s also determined on the valuables inside. If a dungeon has, let''s say an ancient legendary artifact hidden deep within, it''ll most likely be a five star dungeon, not because of the artifact itself, but the severe and deadly traps and potential enemies that''ll be protecting it. Examples include golems and gargoyles, and sometimes elementals."


    "That''s...so...COOL!!! Now we HAVE to go find a dungeon to explore."


    Kak-Yak rushes to go get ready. Ready...for adventure!


    Gathering herself, Lyra stands up and yawns once more. Clearly she didn''t get enough rest last night. Heading over to the table with the map, she scans the surrounding areas around the region. She eventually settled on a point of interest. Dusk cave. "Here should be fine."


    "Dusk cave? That sounds BORING!! Oh well."


    Getting ready and situated, the two hero''s eventually set out for Dusk Cave, Lyra constantly thinking to herself why she''s even agreeing to join Kak-Yak, someone she barely has known since the yesterday.


    Throughout the journey, the landscape and nearby forest provided a sense of ease and relief, and with the occasional deer running along the trail, sun shining down upon it, making the entire experience fable like.


    "Hey Lyra!" He said, skipping along the stone trial.


    "Yeah, what is it?"


    "What do you thinks gonna be the treasure hidden within hmmmmmmmm?!"


    *shrug* "Who knows Kak-Yak. Who knows. I still don''t even know why I agreed to join you in the first place."


    Paw over heart, he laughs as he skips along. "Because I''m the most fearless, selfless hero in all the lands hahahaha!"


    Shaking her head, she returns her gaze towards the trail. "Sure you are."


    Coming up to dusk cave, the two hero''s halt as multiple guardsman stand outside. A guardsman Commander notices them and approaches. "Halt. You two look to be in the business aye?"


    They look to one another before back to him. Kak-Yak speaks up. "Of course dear sir!! For no evil can ever stand in our way!!!"


    "..." He scratches his head. "Ok then, what are your ranks then? We could use some skilled heroes for what''s in this cave here."


    "S rank." She glances towards Kak-Yak before responding. "As for him, he''s adept. A rank."


    "I see." Clearing throat, he points towards the cave. "We were watching over the miners as they worked. Thing is, they dug too deep, ended up breaking open into a hidden chamber. A golem nearly crushed half the dang work force. So here''s what I propose." He turns to them again. "You two deal with the golem, and you''ll be paid. Simple as jobs go. I''ll be here waiting."


    The commander went back to doing what it is commanders do.


    "GOLEM TIME!!!" Kak-Yak practically bounced up and down in excitement. "Hehehehehehe, never fought a golem before. Good thing I read up on them!! This is gonna be sweet."


    ("Wonderful.") Akari thinks, knowing she''d have to make sure he doesn''t get crushed by the golem. "Don''t do anything stupid, golems are tricky to deal with. Depending on the golem, this is either going to be a pain or a slog."


    Entering the cave, the two hero''s breathe in the dusty, old air from within. Some coughing later, the two head for the mined open entrance, already hearing sounds of the golem within the hidden chamber. Stepping inside, they stare up at the massive golem, standing center of the room as it activates.


    "Intruders detected. Engaging."


    Laughing, Kak-Yak unsheathed his sword. "Engaging huh?! Well come right on at me big guy."


    Casting a defensive spell on both of them, Lyra quickly spoke up before Kak-Yak could do anything dumb. "Do not rush a golem alone, let me deal with the aggro, you focus on trying to hit its core! Strikes to the back and chest are perfect spots to weaken it."


    "Thanks for the tips! Now to attack hahaha."


    Two guardsman and the commander, coming from outside, steps within, all brandishing different weapons. "We can''t let you two fight alone. As our duty, we shall provide assistance, just tell us what to do."


    *sigh* "Like I''ve said to him, I shall provide agro, attack its back and chest core to deal severe damage."


    "Noted."


    Two hero''s and three guardsman. Could make for an interesting tavern and inn song, Kak-Yak thinks, giggling to himself as he engages the golem, dodging and weaving against its attacks.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    The commander, unsheathing an enchanted great-sword, joins Kak-Yak as the two aim for the golems weak points. Lyra and the other two guards provide ranged support, Lyra using her magic to cast a variety of spells. Channeling energy, she releases a devastating barrage of frost attacks, hit after hit coating the golem in frost and ice, momentarily slowing the creature down.


    Sensing a change in the golems movements, Lyra cast another defensive spell on everyone. "Stand back!" She shouts.


    The golem burns hot, its regular form changing to that of a fire golem. The walls illuminate its fiery body, orange coating the entire chamber. Without noise or warning it fires a barrage of fire bolts towards them all, quickly moving in on one of the guardsman.


    Thinking quickly, Kak-Yak pounces off of the nearby wall, landing in-front the guardsman and pushing him out of the way, the Golem swinging down.


    A loud crash sounds the entire chamber, ground cracking underneath the force.


    "Hehehehe, missed me you dumb pile of bricks!" Kak-Yak with his nimble ability''s, narrowly avoided becoming the golems victim. Now utop the golems massive body, he quickly strikes at its back in quick succession, damaging its vital core as it struggles to get him off of its body.


    "Hahahahaha, this guys crazy. Never seen someone mount a golem before."


    "Shut up and focus fire on the chest men!"


    Lyra''s attacks mixed in with the guards and Kak-Yaks, the golem was sure enough to fall anytime now.


    Channeling its inner power, the Golem let loose a burst of flames, sending Kak-Yak crashing against the adjacent wall as he caught on fire.


    "FIRE!!! FIRE FIRE FIRE!!!"


    Quickly, Lyra casted a status removal spell on Kak-Yak, making the flames disperse.


    "Man, I did NOT expect it to do that...ow...ow ow ow."


    Lyra quickly casted a healing spell on him, following up with a burst of energy to push the golem back a bit.


    One of the guards takes out a fuse grenade then arms it. "Grenade! Everyone get back." He chucks it at the golem. Seeing him do this, Lyra quickly casted a shield spell around herself and rushed in, slashing at the golems chest core with bluish, magical blades coating her paws. The grenade exploded, severely damaging the golem as Lyra remains unharmed thanks to her shield.


    Grinning, Kak-Yak regained the grip of his sword as he rejoined the fight, quickly attacking in rapid succession.


    Seeing the two hero''s on the aggressive, the commander takes out an enchanted rallying horn, boosting everyone''s attacks and defense for a small period.


    Lyra and Kak-Yak dodged the Golems fiery attacks one after another. The golem swung around, Kak-Yak narrowly dodging another blow as the golems fist plunged into the nearby wall. Luckily, it had gotten stuck doing this, trying to pull its massive hand out of the wall.


    "It''s stuck!!! Now''s our chance!!!" Said a guardsman.


    "Obviously you dimwit." Said the other.


    In a combined effort, everyone begun relentlessly attacking the golems back core, the massive creature firing multiple barrages of fireballs all around as it was attacked.


    Finally, with one last attack, both Lyra and Kak-Yak drove their weapons into the golems core, Kak-Yaks blade and Lyra''s magical one combining together into one devastating final blow. With a loud sound emitting from within its body, the golems flames ceased as it collapsed. Unmoving. Defeated.


    Both Lyra and Kak-Yak panted, but eventually regained their breath.


    "Haha...hahaha...hahahahaha!!! That was amazing!!! Man, we''re like monsters fighting machines and stuff! Man oh man that was sick!" Holding up his paw, he awaited a high five from Lyra. "Oh come on now that was fun!"


    Shaking her head, she did the so called, high five, as the Suxarine danced in celebration, going to high five the three guardsman as well.


    "I have never fought a golem before. That was tense."


    "What, to used to fighting bandits that it? Monsters to hard for ya? Just because we''re guardsman doesn''t mean we can''t help fight other threats."


    "Both of you, quiet." The commander said, pointing to the opening. "Head back outside. You''ll both be rewarded once I''m finished talking to these two."


    With a nod, the two guardsmen left, leaving the commander as he turned towards the two hero''s. "Even with my skills, I doubt I would''ve been able to defeat that thing on my own. Which is why we tend to wait for professionals. We guardsman can only do so much with our limited knowledge on monsters. Pah, whatever, meet me back outside for your rewards. As for this...chamber, have whatever is inside. You deserve it after all."


    With the commander leaving, that left Kak-Yak and Lyra alone within the chamber.


    "CHEST!!! Two of them!!! Hahahahahaha!!! Hey Lyra!! Stop standing and come here!!"


    "I''ll be there in a second." Lyra walks up to the dead golem. She kneels down, scrapping up the golems materials that has leaked from its core and placing it into her bag.


    "Ewwwwww why are you doing that?"


    "Because golems drop rare to find materials. And depending on the golem, it can be other rare materials, such as fire stones." Shakes head. "Anyway, did you say something about chest?"


    "Yep!!! Over here by me, there''s two of them."


    Walking over to him, she looks down at the chest mentioned. "If there was a golem that powerful protecting these chest, there has to be something good hidden within. C''mon, let''s open them."


    Slowly opening them together, the two undo the latches and open up the chest. One thing the two chest have in common is that they both have coin at the bottom. Lots.


    "Woah!!! Cool shield!!! Oh, and is that...wha, THERE IS SO MUCH HERE!!!"


    The two after some digging finish clearing both chest. Lyra tosses her lightweight chest piece in favor of the newer, more durable and lightweight one she''s found.


    Kak-Yak equips the new shield he''s acquired, it blending in well with his fur, armor and clothing. "I''m like a knight now!!! Hahahaha, don''t worry my lovely maiden, I shall protect thee!!"


    Kak-Yak practices some of his moves, moving around like a madman as he does so. As for Lyra, she bags the useful pieces of gear and items she found within the chest. Turning her attention towards the back of the chamber, she investigates, old desk, furniture and shelves occupying the back.


    She digs and rummages around for a bit, finding nothing of real value. Eventually she finds a desk hidden in a dark corner. Walking up to it, she looks down at the many writings of a madman on countless scraps of paper, all littered around the small desk. Some of the writing is complete gibberish, while the readable ones speak of absurd theory''s and myths, such as the world will end one day due to the dolphins creating a bomb made of wood, and another saying how worms are going to multiple and cover the earth into one giant super worm. Absolutely insane and wacky stuff


    "Oh. My. GOSH OH MY GOSH!!!"


    She quickly turns to him. "What, something happened?"


    Smiling wide, he turns to her, holding up a stuffed toy of a cute bee. "I LOVE STUFFED TOYS OH MY GOSH!!! I miss these things!!! I remember I had one of a rock back home."


    "...A rock?"


    "OH MY GOSH IM PUTTING YOU RIGHT BY MY BEDIDE WHEN I GET BACK!!! Every time I wake up, I''ll see its goofy little eyes just staring at me while I stare at it!"


    Giving a feint smile, Lyra just watched as Kak-Yak talked to the stuffed plush. Despite his childish and goofy behavior, she had to admit, he''s definitely the most entertaining hero she''s ever met. She didn''t even care that he dropped out anymore. He had the spirit. Valor, and many more traits that made him a perfect hero. She already knows he''d be one of the more popular hero''s if he had just stayed and did everything in his hero school.


    *Loud beeping*


    Lyra quickly takes her communicator device from off her item belt. Before she could even speak, an authoritative voice spoke through the device.


    "Attention all A and S rank heros. An unknown threat has made itself known to the association. I repeat, an unknown threat has made itself known. Any A and S ranked hero''s not on mission must head to the coordinates listed immediately. This message will only be given out to the listed ranked hero''s. If you are a hero below A or S and you have received this message, ignore."


    Confused, she puts the device back into its place on her item belt. "Unknown...unknown." She repeats. "This cannot be good."


    "Hey Lyra!" Kak-Yak pointed to the communication device. "What''s that thing? What was that voice that came from that thing? It looks cool!! I wanna touch it!"


    Snapping out of her thoughts, she looked to Kak-Yak. "I''m not letting you touch it. C''mon, let''s head on out already and collect our reward."


    Finally leaving the chamber and the cave, the two finally head back outside, already seeing miners re entering the cave to get back to work.


    "Finally, wondered when you two would eventually show up." He immediately walks up to them. "Here. Should be enough. Don''t go spending it on anything dumb."


    Handing the two their coin pouches, the commander goes back to doing his job.


    "Hehehehehehe, coin coin coin! Man, gonna buy me something good with this. Or not, probably just gonna save it."


    "..." Lyra quickly pockets her coin, looking over to Kak-Yak. "Hey. Kak-Yak. Could you do me a favor?"


    Ears perking up, he turns to her. "Sure!! What''s the favor?"


    Collecting her thoughts, she speaks lowly and softly. "Tell Ninthara back at the village that I might not come back in a while. Hero business."


    "Hero business?! I thought us going to explore a dungeon was hero business?!"


    "What, fighting a golem and chest within a hidden chamber isn''t enough dungeon experience for you?" She says jokingly, smirk on her face.


    "I mean that was fun, but that wasn''t like actually dungeon crawling though!!! That was more like-"


    "Ok ok, I get it. Gotta stop you before you go on a rant. But seriously, tell Ninthara I''m not gonna be back at honeycomb village for a while."


    "Hero business, like you just said." He tilts his head, arms crossed. "What''s this hero business? If it''s monster fighting I can help!"


    Head shake. "No. Too dangerous and risky for you."


    "But fighting a golem that SHOOTS FLAMES and can smash me into a million pieces isn''t quote on quote, risky?" His expression hardens. "I remember you said I was an enigma right? Well, let me prove it further. I know I''m not some fancy graduate of a hero school or whatever, but I''ve enough courage and determination to scare a dragon! And besides, yes, I did study monsters during my time in my hero school. So I know some things."


    "..." Sighing, Lyra lets up. "Fine, but first let me explain. Here, listen to the."


    Taking out her communication device again, she replays the message sent to her and other high ranking hero''s.


    Once it eventually finished, Kak-Yak spoke. "Unknown threat?! That sounds so cool!!! I wonder if it''s a vampire or something!!!"


    "Only one way to find out. Come on, follow me."


    And thus, the two set off for the coordinates listed on the device. Lyra wondered to herself just why, why is she letting him join her? Especially for something only meant for high ranking heroes. Who knows. Maybe she just likes his company. Whatever the case may be, she''s just glad to have someone like Kak-Yak around to lighten the mood. Unbeknownst to the two however, they will soon find out that this would be no simple monster they had to deal with.

 Iram Divinam

    Countless hero''s all of higher ranking walk the same trail as our two hero''s, surly heading for the coordinates listed as well. Many of them are chatting while they walk the path forward, surly discussing what this unknown threat could be.


    The late morning sun, its rays shining down upon all of the hero''s makes for a spectacular display. The trees flow in a cool breeze, the morning winds howling as the calm atmosphere washes over everyone. If you pay attention, you might even notice the usual wildlife running freely within the nearby forest.


    The calm, inviting atmosphere will soon be replaced. Replaced by a singular entity. What is this entity? Well, all the hero''s will soon find out.


    Arriving at the place sent to them, the hero''s are greeted by multiple hero''s from the associations, some guild leaders also making an appearance.


    "There''s so many hero''s!" Kak-Yak whispers to Lyra. "Whatever this monster is must be pretty dangerous."


    "Definitely, now shhh, let''s hear what they have to say."


    Standing center, a well dressed member of the association spoke up. "Hero''s, today is a very...odd, day. The threat that has made itself known has requested for all high ranking hero''s to gather here today. We would not have listened to such a random request...however, once you see the individual in question, you will know why you have been summoned here today."


    Standing aside, an unknown humanoid entity steps forward, clad in unknown silver armor, its blue and red glowing colors from within its armor blending into the silver to create an odd appearance. Its face was sealed within a helm of some kind, masking all facial expressions.


    "...Hero''s...you gather here today...for an opportunity." The unknown humanoid gestured to the nearby field. Countless hero''s stood lying defeated, but ultimately unharmed. "I seek hero''s who can help me quell the growing monster threats. You''re...hero, associations and guilds already work hard to quell the increase in monsters. However, the source itself must be dealt with. Not the monsters that crawl from it."


    All the heros begin whispering to one another about this strange individual. Hero''s more in tune with magic and arcane sensed something...off, about this strange individual.


    "Without wasting anymore time...I shall get to the point. You will all fight me. At once. If I see that a certain individual or individuals have the qualities I seek, you will be given the choice to join and help me eradicate the growing threat within. It is not forced. All have freedom of choice...you don''t even need to fight me if you don''t want to...but we know that the latter is, too, the minority." They cross their arms. "Also I shall warn. I have yet to find any suitable hero''s to help me...and I have bested many, many hero''s through my search. So again, you will not be mocked for turning down a fight with I. Test, of I. I shall also point out that losing to me will not fall into play of my judgement. If I see that you are what I seek, then winning or losing matters not." Looking to the lead association member, they speak coldly and lowly. "One more thing...do not EVER, refer to me as a threat. I am no mindless monster. Do, you, UNDERSTAND?"


    The loud, booming voice of the individual shook the air. "Y-yes, ahem, noted."


    "Good. Good." They turn for the nearby field, walking to where a group of knocked out heroes lay.


    Looking to Lyra, Kak-Yak spoke. "That guys so cool!! I mean do you see his armor?! Or her armor? Who knows!!! Oh! I bet they''re secretly a hero in disguise."


    "Who knows." Lyra watched as multiple heros contemplated on what to do here. Some outright declined, leaving. Which was actually most of them. "Someone able to defeat multiple, high ranking hero''s all at once is...dangerous, to say the least. Extremely dangerous. Yet I don''t even see a drop of blood anywhere."


    "Duh!! Because he knocked him out! I mean they did say that themselves!!"


    "Very astute observation Kak-Yak."


    A minute passed, and most hero''s outright left, leaving few behind. The ones who stayed ended up taking up this strangers so called "test."


    "All at once. Fight me."


    Gathering into one large group, the remaining hero''s drew their weapons. All at once, they rushed the mysterious stranger. A hero drove their blade down toward the stranger. Tilting to the side, they grabbed the blade and punched the hero''s wrist, the force going right through their armor.


    A loud yelp rang out as the hero dropped his sword, the stranger catching it and snapping it in half. Under a matter of a seconds, the stranger already had the advantage. Multiple ranged weapons and magic bombarded the individual. Creating a magical shield, they leapt forward, firing down a swarm of non lethal, laser like beams which struck multiple hero''s all at once. Absorbing the attacks from before, they resend out the attacks directed towards them, the hero''s own bombardment of attacks firing off towards them.


    A loud bang rung throughout the field as a small, non lethal explosion blew back most of the hero''s. Resettling their resolves, they got right back up and engaged the individual once more.


    "This is bad." Lyra said to Kak-Yak. "I don''t know who this person is, but they''re a danger. Anyone who could cause this much trouble for multiple hero''s at once...is an issue, to say the least."


    "He''s so cool though!!! I wanna fight him now!!!"


    "Out of the question."


    Giving a goofy expression, he stood in front her, gesturing to the fighting going on. "I''m gonna fight him, watch me! But I''m not gonna join the others. I wanna do a one on one duel!!! Now THAT would be fun hehehehe."


    "You can''t be serious, he''s literally fighting multiple S class heroes, all at once and hasn''t even been hit by a single attack."


    "Well why aren''t you going help them then, hmmmmm Lyra?"


    "..." Gritting her fangs, she looks back to the fighting going on. Lots of thoughts flood her mind, all telling her various things to do and to not do. Quickly deciding, she steps forward. "Stay here. I''m serious."


    Before he could respond, she had already ran to join in, casting various magical spells to even the playing field.


    (Kak-Yak pov.) Laaaaaaaaaame, I wanna fight him! Sooon, hehehehehehe, soooooon. Sooon I shall show all that Kak-Yak the great fears no foe!! I shall come out victorious!! Ahahahahahaha!!


    (No pov.) Attack after attack, spell after spell, the hero''s just delayed their own losses. One after another they fell unconscious, defeated by this...this stranger.


    And thus, only one was left standing. Lyra, tired and exhausted from the many attacks and spells she''s had to both dodge, as well as fire off.


    "..." They fold their hands behind their back. "The last to join becomes the last woman standing. Congratulations. Perhaps you will be suitable enough to join me, as I exterminate the vile monsters plaguing these lands."


    Panting, Lyra speaks. "I''m not interested in becoming someone''s sidekick." *cough* "I sense an unnatural aura from you. You can''t be a regular person. Who, are you?"


    "I am like you all. A hero, here to purge the world of the monsters that multiple daily. But first...I need individuals to assist me with my quest. You are a suitable candidate."


    "Again, the answers no to the sidekick gig."


    "..." They gesture away. "You''re free to leave anytime. I didn''t force you to fight me after all. I merely gathered every hero in the area. To see if they fit my requirements."


    "I know there''s something you''re not telling me. Us."


    "Perhaps. But all will be said in due time to those who join me."


    Falling to one knee, Lyra quickly uses a healing spell on herself. The stranger allows this, looking over to the other, conscious hero. "You there, the feline fellow. Come here."


    Grinning, Kak-Yak quickly skips over to the stranger. "HELLO!!! I''m Kak-Yak, defender of justice and slayer of monsters!!!" He poses, something that''s become normal for him now."


    "I see." The individual studies the Suxarine. "...That coloring and patterns...are you-"


    "Oh? My fur and colors and stuff? Yeah, looks cool huh?!"


    "..." There was a slight change in the strangers voice. "You are..." They shake their head. "You''re...pah, no matter. Hero, come at me. If you so choose that is."


    *loud laugh* "You don''t have to tell me twice!! Just gotta get ready, for the DUEL!!!"


    The one before him does some stretches, quick pushups and other warm up exercises.


    Sitting down on the ground, Lyra stayed silent, observing. Looking to her, Kak-Yak spoke up. "Don''t worry Lyra!! I''ll kick his butt into next week for ya!" He turned his attention back towards the stranger. "Alright, I''m ready!! Oh, wait, um, sorry if this is rude but um...are you like...a boy? Girl? Sorry, can''t tell from your voice under the helmet."


    "Male. Now enough talk, fight if you will fight."


    Grinning wide, Kak-Yak unsheathes his sword, as well as equips his newly acquired shield. He begins to circle the individual, still wearing a confident smirk on his face.


    The stranger just stared, waiting for Kak-Yak to do the first blow. Sure enough, he does, charging forward to attempt a strike. The stranger cast an unknown spell, blowing Kak-Yak backwards onto the ground below. Using the advantage, the stranger charged forward, both arms glowing bright as his hands and arms turned into two duel wielded swords of bluish light.


    Unlike the others to be struck, Kak-Yak pounces back up, actually charging head first into the attack. He pushes his shield forward into the individual, quickly flipping behind them to deliver a blow to the back.


    The stranger turned around quickly around, both of their blades clashing together as a loud sound rung out across the field. "Hehehehehe, I knew you''d try that! Man, you have the coolest armor! Where do I get it?"


    "Silence!"


    Swapping stances, Kak-Yak begun attacking in fast succession, using speed instead of power as his advantage. Noticing this, the stranger copied Kak-Yak''s movements, matching his speed and tempo. Casting a ray of light, he fires it toward Kak-Yak before also firing a large, magical barrage of red lasers toward Kak-Yak.


    Kak-Yak, being unbelievably lucky, managed to dodge every single one, actually using his shield to deflect the last laser back towards the stranger. This wasn''t with drawbacks however, as the force of the laser blew him backwards, even with the shields defensive help.


    Getting quite annoyed now, the stranger speaks. "You impress me Suxarine. You perhaps may be able to join me during my quest."


    "Cool!!!"


    "..." Head shake. "Enough games. It is high time I wipe that smirk off your face and ended this little dance."


    In an instant, the stranger appeared behind Kak-Yak in a ray of light, grabbing him from behind and casting a lighting bolt down from the sky. The immense power and strength of the spell cause Kak-Yak to scream in pain, his body moving erratically from the spell. Tossing him aside, the stranger observed.


    "While your display was impressive, you couldn''t have ever hoped to best I. Do not worry, you have passed my...test. You''ll be considered worthy enough to join me, as I-"


    "Shut up."


    Standing up, Kak-Yak coughed a bit, clutching the region of his heart before he spoke up, his goofy and carefree attitude gone completely. "Who says we''re done here? I''ve still got a lot of fight left in me."


    Slightly surprised, the stranger speaks. "You stand even still? I was sure that bolt would''ve rendered you unconscious."


    "Looks like you need to train some more." Deep chuckle. "Perhaps you should just forget about this quest of yours and continue honing your skills."


    "Silence!! You dare mock I, when you''ve failed to land even a single blow!!"


    "Who says I don''t have time to do it now?"If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Without warning, Kak-Yak immediately resumes his attacks, the stranger blocking and countering each. Yet despite this, Kak-Yak does the same, countering each of his attacks and dodging flawlessly.


    The stranger does his trick once more, appearing behind Kak-Yak in a display of light. Not about to fall for the same trick twice, he quickly turns around, ducks the grab and pounces onto the individual, striking him multiple times in quick succession. To Kak-Yak''s surprise, his attacks don''t really...do, anything, his blade bouncing off of his opponents armor each hit.


    Grabbing Kak-Yak by the throat, the individual stands back up, holding Kak-Yak up to the sky.


    "You DARE strike my armor? I admit, I thought I would never EVER encounter someone from this...pah, ENOUGH!!! Just surrender, you cannot hope to best me!!"


    Choking, Kak-Yak can only make gasping sounds, air leaving him as he struggled in his opponents grasp.


    "Let him go!! He''s choking!" Lyra shouted. "You''ve won! Let him go, you''re going to-"


    "Silence Wolfian!!! I will let him go in a b-"


    Feeling something grab both his arms, the stranger turned back towards Kak-Yak, who had both his grip on his arms. Through unknown means, Kak-Yak managed to free himself from the strangers grasp, sending his opponent flying backwards against the fields grassy grounds.


    "Oh you, you, HOW DAAAAARE YOU!! I am THROUGH, with this game!!!"


    Standing back up, he speaks loudly, his voice booming and sending ripples through the air. "No longer shall I hold back!! Suxarine!! You will feel my wrath!! No one, NO ONE!!! Will ever beat I!!"


    Instantly teleporting to Kak-Yak, he blast the Suxarine with a concentrated force of non lethal energy right to the face. Time seems to freeze, as Kak-Yak was sent flying backwards, landing right on his face as a loud thud sounded.


    "...Now then...you fought well, Suxarine. Rest now."


    The stranger went over and kneeled beside Kak-Yak. Casting some sort of light above himself, he begun to study Kak-Yak''s aura.


    "What are you doing?" Lyra walked over to him. "Stop that! You beat him, it''s over!"


    "Yes. However, I must extract this one''s worth. To fuel my own strength against the enemy."


    "What do you mean?"


    He looks to her. "You, along with this Suxarine are the best heros I''ve encountered. So far that is. It is about time I revealed who I really am. The entire speech I did for the other heroes?! Merely a play, for I am an angel."


    Staring in shock, Lyra could just stare. Angel? Did he say Angel, she thought.


    "Let me explain. The increase in monster activity is due to a play within the realm that SHALL NOT, BE. NAMED!!! Someone, or something, is at play. I WILL, stop the things responsible for this! For it RUINED my reputation and status as an angel!!!"


    "...Wait, so all of this fighting with hero''s. It''s to gather soul energy you say. Won''t that hurt the souls you take?"


    "I just said I don''t take souls!! I only use the energy from them to power myself. For a fallen, forsaken angel is stripped of all their powers. I would have to wait countless decades and see the fall of civilizations just to have my powers return naturally!!! I shall NOT, wait that long for my revenge!!! As for the energy I take, it is ONLY, energy!!! It will eventually reshape itself within an individual."


    Paw twitching, Kak-Yak begins to slowly stand up, much to the so called "angels" surprise. "How...HOW ARE YOU STILL CONSCIOUS?! That blast should have rendered you unconscious!"


    Not saying a word, Kak-Yak simply stood. Unmoving. A stoic, dead stare set on his opponent.


    "Do not give me that look!!! If you were awake the entire time, you know my goals are noble!!! So no need for battle anymore!!! Stand still so I may absorb some of your energy."


    "..." He looked down to his paws, twitching. Shaking. "I feel...so...unnatural, right now. Like when people have an out of body experience. Is this what it feels like?"


    "Stop talking!!! Your words mean nothing. Stand, still!"


    A sudden blast of energy sends the so called angel flying backwards. Lyra stares at Kak-Yak, who just shot a devastating amount of energy from the palms of his paws. He begun to step towards the angel, who quickly regains his stance. Before both Lyra''s and the fallen angels eyes, Kak-Yak''s fur colors and patterns begin to merge into one. A bright blinding light engulfs the field as the sky turns dark, winds starting to howl.


    "What manner of power is this?!"


    The light dispersing, Lyra and the fallen angels gaze went back to the Suxarine, whose color and patterns was changed to a singular one. That of the full moon.


    "...Ahaha...hahahahaha!! I see what this is!! Full moon birthed blessing! Now I remember! You think your blessing will stop me?! An angel?! I am divine!!! I am pure!! You are but a mortal with your species gods blessing!!! You cannot hope to best me in combat!!"


    The winds howled, the Suxarine''s expression stoic and devoid of all emotion. His usual green and purple eyes were replaced with a beautiful blue color, his now white fur glistening in the moon lit sky. His tail swayed back and forth as he continued holding his gaze, his body still shaking due to the sudden transformation. It was clear that this sudden, new transformation was taking a serious toll on his body, although with the current situation, no one really notices.


    "Enough of the staring!!! Let''s finish this!!! I only wanted to lure you hero''s here so that I may extract the energy from your unconscious forms!!! You would awake with your memories of our encounter wiped, but your souls and spirits would be fine!!! You, would, be, FINE!!! FINE!!! BUT NO!!! You have to continue to be STUBBORN!!! There is only one way to drive the point home now!!! By using lethal means!!!"


    Calling forth a blade made entirely of divine energy, the fallen angel sprouts forth large, intimidating wings merged with his armor as he flys upward. "I shall only injure you to the point you cannot fight back, then I shall heal you and take but a bit of your soul energy!!! Afterwards, I shall erase all memory of this encounter with I from thee mind!!! Same goes for you Wolfian!!!"


    In an instant, a static bolt of electricity lit up the field, Kak-Yak appearing right above the angel as he shoots a large, devastating blast that illuminated the sky and shook the very region. Teleporting out of the way, the angel grabbed Kak-Yak and drove his blade right through the Suxarine. Well, that''s at least what he thought, as the fake he stabbed distorts into a cloud of mist as the real Suxarine appeared below him, driving a devastating punch to the angels gut, followed up with a swing of his sword to his body multiple times in quick succession. Unlike before, this transformation of his seemed to grant the sword he was holding unknown energy, causing the strikes to actually damage this time.


    With a final, devastating blow, Kak-Yak sent the fallen angel crashing back to the ground.


    "GAH!!!" He quickly got back up. "YOU CANNOT BE THIS STRONG TO THE POINT YOUR PUNCHES GO THROUGH MY ARMORS DEFENSE!!!" Teleporting near Kak-Yak, the angel drove the sword downwards towards him, although this was a feint attack, as he maneuvered out of the way quickly of Kak-Yak''s counter, punching him hard in the nose before flying backward.


    Clutching his nose, blood poured down his face, dripping onto the ground below. He removed his paw from his nose, blood now streaming down his face. It was clear that punch severely injured Kak-Yak''s nose. Badly. For the first time, Lyra saw genuine hatred on Kak-Yak''s face, although his expression...it looked more of a concentrated hatred. A calm, yet focused tone of anger.


    Shaking her head, she quickly made her way by his side, casting a healing spell to heal him of his injury. "If I recall, you didn''t go against the idea of fighting more than one hero. The countless unconscious bodys littering the field say so. So you know what? I''m not sitting around anymore." She looks to Kak-Yak. "C''mon, let''s work together to take down this supposed angel."


    His bright, shining eyes stares into hers. He gives a quick smile. "Hero''s stand together. With this...power, of mine, and your skilled magic, we''re sure to take him down."


    The two give a quick high five before turning to face the angel, who''s quite beyond mad now. "Combining efforts won''t stop an ANGEL OF GOD!!!! What do you not understand?!?! I''m trying, to HELP!!! All you have to do is surrender so I can take but a bit of your soul energies!!! Look at your fellow hero''s!!! They don''t have a lick of an injury on them!!! Just, surrender!!!"


    The dark sky howls, a deadly storm now brewing from the spectacle. The angel flys upward, casting down divine rays of light towards the two hero''s.


    Kak-Yak meets the angel in the air as Lyra helps with magical spells, helping Kak-Yak by giving him very helpful defense and attack related buffs.


    Loud, thundering strikes sound through the region and sky as both the Suxarine and Angel exchange deadly blows. Our Suxarine hero makes sure to do everything in his power to divert his foe''s attention from Lyra to him.


    Lifting both palms upwards, five magical swords rip themselves from the ground, twirling in a tornado like fashion as divine energy ripples through the entire sky and air. The angel fires barrage after barrage of his spells towards the two, using his tornado like blades to close in on the two at high speeds.


    Kak-Yak''s body seems to move and think on its own, creating countless barriers made up of unknown energy to protect both him and Lyra. Right after casting this, he quickly bolts for the angel, clashing with him once more. Catching a punch, the angel retaliates by trying to fire soul spears from behind, aiming to strike the Suxarine in the back. Whilst quickly casting this, the angel forms his left hand into a pure lightning blade, quickly driving it up towards Kak-Yak. Moving without thought, Kak-Yak''s uses his own caught fist within the angels grasp to flip himself and the angel onto the ground. Quickly realizing his plan, the angel redirects the soul spears towards Lyra.


    Lyra cast a defensive shield as she suffers the blows of the devastating soul spear one by one, her magical powers starting to weaken significantly.


    Returning back to the other two, Kak-Yak and the angel was exchanging blow after blow, Kak-Yak''s blows denting and causing damage to the armor of the angel, whilst he suffered wounding and injury from the angels glowing blades. Blood trickled from the Suxarine''s wounds, coating the ground below in crimson blood.


    "You shall NOT heal him, Wolfian!!!"


    The angel feints an attack for Kak-Yak and sends a blast of energy to Lyra. The blast is too fast for her to react in time, sending her flying onto the ground with a loud thud. She struggles to stand, as she feels her magic energy inside of her be damaged severely.


    Before being able to land an actual blow on her, Kak-Yak grabs the angel and forces him to look at him, driving a blow into the angels helm. The force ripples through the air, causing a small shockwave to sound through the area.


    Non moving, the angel counters with multiple strikes to Kak-Yak''s stomach, finishing with a kick that sends him flying back. Despite showing no signs of any damage from the attack at first, the angel falters after a few seconds, holding his now cracked side of his helm.


    "How...HOW?!?! How can a mere mortal damage my armor?!"


    "Maybe you should try dodging."


    Turning to Lyra, the angel speaks loudly. "YOU DARE MAKE JOKES TO ME?!"


    Shaking, Lyra manages to finally stand up. "All this fighting is really unnecessary. Why don''t you just ASK people for energy? You''re an angel you say right? Just kindly ask hero''s for some of their energy so you can, quote on quote, help with the increase in monster activity."


    "SILENCE!!! You know NOTHING of my plan!!! My restrictions!! I WILL have my revenge, I WILL stop this!! The truth of it will be revealed, and I will rejoin the beyond world." He clenches his fist. "You think I WANT to fight?! I don''t!!! I merely wanted to pretend to be someone I''m not so that I may gather the energy from the battle worn souls of experienced heroes! I am NOT the villain!!!"


    Hearing him stand back up, the angel turned back to Kak-Yak, then to Lyra. They grew closer and closer each step taken. "ENOUGH!!! LETS END THIS!!!"


    The moon cast down its rays upon the battlefield, Kak-Yak and Lyra looking to one another and giving a quick nod before turning back to the angel. Together, the two heros rushed the angel, attacking together to overwhelm as the angel formed two blades, attacking both of them at the same time, casting forth attacks to fire upon them.


    Working together, Lyra and Kak-Yak began to overwhelm, damaging the angels armor with their combined attacks. Despite being weakened from the blast from before, Lyra continued to support, albeit with weakened and lesser versions of spells.


    With a final combined blow, Lyra drove two magical daggers into the angels now exposed wings, while Kak-Yak quickly charged a devastating attack, his fur lighting up in the night sky as his eyes changed to a pure white. He launched a focused combination attack, blow after blow cracking the chest armor on the angel. Then, with a final surge of energy, Kak-Yak embues his sword with devastating power and slashes it down from the angels helm to his chest armor. The aftermath of the slash causes a small explosion to occur, knocking Kak-Yak and Lyra back a ways as the angel seethed in anger.


    "THAT, IS, ENOUGH!!!"


    A burst of divine energy swept across the battlefield, immobilizing both Kak-Yak and Lyra. Teleporting to her, the angel grabs her by the neck and chants a prayer.


    "Go to sleep now." He says after the final words of his quick prayer.


    Tossing the now unconscious Lyra aside, he shifts his gaze to Kak-Yak. "You...YOU!!! Now you fight me alone once more, Suxarine!!!"


    Looking to Lyra''s unconscious yet unharmed body, he breathes a sigh of relief. "You know, you''re really not at all that evil. I just don''t understand why you can''t just do what you want without knocking heros out."


    "Be quiet!!! You know nothing!!! Of why I have to do what I do, which to you might seem like a simple, straightforward EXTRACTION PROCESS!!!"


    Now facing him alone, Kak-Yak readies himself, an aura of moonlight surrounding his form as his body attacked on its own.


    A bright gold aura surrounded the angel as he, too, lunged forward, firing blast after blast of lightning toward his opponent as he wielded two, glowing bright swords that lightened up the night.


    In an almost dance like way, the two fought and fought, Kak-Yak damaging the angel, and the angel damaging Kak-Yak. With a strike downwards, the double swords wielded by the angel slashed against the body of the Suxarine. Although heavily injured, he retaliated with a burst of latent energy which causes the angel to stumble. Using this advantage, Kak-Yak resumed his attacks, combining attacks from his sword and those of his newly acquired ability''s.


    With a loud, angry scream, the angel met Kak-Yak''s attacks with his own, the sounds of their duel sounding throughout the entire region, lighting up the night sky.


    Enraged beyond all measure, the angel summoned forth devastating energy which began to expand rapidly, lighting up the sky in a golden hue as he sent the mass of energy directly for Kak-Yak, firing off fast beams of energy towards him afterwards.


    The speed of the attack was unlike anything he''s ever seen before. Luckily for him, his own body reacted faster than his eyes did, firing off a powerful blast of energy made up of the moons rays. The clash of both his and the angels moves caused a devastating reaction, creating a large explosion which sent both of them flying backwards.


    Heavily wounded and bleeding, Kak-Yak stood up, despite everything. He was panting heavily, his injuries starting to take it''s toll on him


    As for the angel, he stood there, fuming and enraged. Parts of his armor were severely damaged, and other parts gone completely. Example being his dark, black wings, which were now exposed clearly, blood dripping from them.


    The two stared at one another. Silent. They both have clearly sustained serious injuries. Although it was clear Kak-Yak suffered more. That being that he had an entire puddle of blood under him, staining the grass beneath him.


    "...You..." The angel clenched his fist. "You...you..." Shaking with anger, the angel folded his wings around himself, flying into the air. "Your blessed powers rival those who have come before you. None within your kind with the blessing of Aza-Riel, has EVER, fought an angel. Nor has actually achieved success in DAMAGING them. You...are different. Make no mistake. We will meet again. And next time, it will be no tie! I leave your memories of this encounter intact, as well as your wounds!! Do not worry, my light will numb the pain and render the wounds non fatal. Let it be a reminder of our battle!!! Farewell, strong one. Until we meet again."


    In a burst of light, the angel vanished, leaving nothing of his presence behind. Being engulfed in light, the injuries on Kak-Yak numbed, although the pain was still there. A little reminder of the battle he fought.


    The night sky shifted back to the morning, as the sky turned bright once more, the suns rays shining down upon the land. Kak-Yak''s transformation reverted, the Suxarine returning to his usual state. Collapsing onto the ground below, Kak-Yak fell unconscious in a puddle of his own blood.