《That Which Was Taken》


 Prologue

    So the purpose of this prologue is to obviously give context to this world and the races, and give a hint to how magic works in this world, but it also contains a small hint as to the overall antagonist of the book, and is meant to create some questions and curiosities. This is the beginning of a trilogy i am currently writing and each book is going to start in a manner similar to this, but each one going delve bit deeper into the lore and the overall antagonist. i already have chapter 1 written but need to do some editing to fix mostly grammatical mistakes. so chapter 1 is coming soon


    Before the sun first shed light upon our land, before the formation of the great stars in the heavens, when naught but chaos riddled the vast darkness. Great and curious spirits roamed. In the chaos, they sifted until order took form in their minds; gathering the chaos and ordering it. They gave it form and instruction, weaving it until it became all that we see around us. Vigilantly did they watch until the chaos listened and obeyed. They caused that suns should fill the void with light and formed the planets to encircle them. All manner of celestial objects did they make to light and fill the void; for they desired to imbue that darkness with beauty. And never did they stop to ask the purpose behind, for this was all they knew, and a purpose never entered their thoughts. Not till many stars were formed and much of the chaos was ordered did that fateful day when they learned their purpose come. For in her creations did that Great Spirit Amaya learn their purpose. For as she told the ancient people of the past, an explosion of pure light, far greater and more brilliant than the stars they adorned the heavens with, opened up to her. Then from it flowed knowledge, ancient knowledge, and before it she felt like as a grain of sand afloat an endless ocean. With new eyes did she look upon their creations, and saw purpose therein. She went down and with new eyes looked upon the waters of that world, and in their depths she worked, creating the first living thing. A large reef which she called her throne, and while she sat, she formed. She brought forth the kelp and coral of all different colors. She formed the fish and the krill and finally she felt joy. Though as she looked upon her living creations, she saw that none could be taught the truths of the universe, and so looking upon her own image, she created the leviathans, the creatures of the deep. The first peoples of this earth, and to them she imparted a portion of herself. She taught them language and taught them to record the happenings of their world and the knowledge she would impart to them. And they multiplied and became prosperous and wise.


    It was then when Ignis, the spirit wreathed in flame, came searching for Amaya; for long had she been absent. For It was in the midst of her teaching them in the ways of controlling the essences around them that Ignis found her. Then looking upon her creations he sat puzzled, for never had he seen this manner of creations. Then calling out to her, he asked.


    ¡°what manner of creations are these? They are different from all else, and some contain our likeness, but lack our power. ¡°


    Amaya, looking to the leviathans, bid them go, and went to Ignis. and looking out to all their creations, she asked ¡°for what purpose do our creation serve. For surely our purpose is to create, but what of our creation¡¯s purpose? Must we be the only thing that can act on them? Must our creation sit without reason till we cast our gaze about their beauty? For we ordered the chaos into beauty, but among our beauty we leave emptiness. what purpose does this space serve? for surely as we have purpose, so must other things. Then why have we left it purposeless and call it good?¡± Amaya paused and looked to Ignis, but the Spirit remained quiet, a puzzled look upon his face. For surely we cannot be the only things with purpose; even the chaos had purpose. For the chaos¡¯s purpose was to be ordered into beauty, should not the beauty, too, have purpose? Surely its purpose cannot solely be for us to look upon it. But in this new creation have I found its purpose, and in finding its purpose, I have found new love. Come down with me and surely you too will see. ¡°


    So Ignis went with her, and his eyes were opened. And he too, wished to help fill this world with life. Therefore, did he and Amaya cause that land should split the waters apart and on that land did Ignis create the Golems, and have them carve out the land to their liking. And made they rivers and lakes. They formed valleys and caused high places to be brought low, and low places were lifted up. and when they were happy, they laid down to gaze upon their creations. For though their work made them happy, it was wearisome. They then became the mountains and the hills, and they watched as their riverbeds flowed with water and their lakes filled. they watched as the grass started to grow and the trees started to sprout. Then, with content, they stayed, watching over the land. And after this work was done, he, being Ignis, went and called to the other Great Spirits to come and see; to learn the purpose of their past creations, and, in turn, gain new love. And they came, and they watched as the world started taking more form; becoming more beautiful. They saw Amaya among her people teaching them her ways, and their eyes were opened and they called to Amaya beseeching her to teach them, and so she did.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    Then, looking to the green fields, they started their work. Creating the forests green that spanned the lands and filling them with squirrel, and rabbit, with deer and birds, the great bears, and the antlered wolves. and when they saw a world that was full and teeming with life, they created two manner of men. One to roam through the forest and this one did they simply call men. And the other they called the Abhartaich for they were of the Earth and lived within the Earth. and for a time they stayed among them and taught them, and all manner of joy was found abundant upon the face of the land. But upon looking to the sky and seeing a near infinite number of their creations, they now understood their work and their purpose and knew that they could not tarry long, for much of their creation was empty, void of purpose. Though, due to the love they held for their creations, they did not wish to leave them stumble in the dark. So, looking back to the cosmos, they gathered the remaining of matter unorganized. and created they the lesser spirits as countless as the stars. Some they took with them, but others they let stay to teach and to guide. And so it was man and Abhartaich and spirit were left to this earth.Time passed and generations came and went.


    Quick Were the Abhartaich to forget the teachings, for some scorned the gods saying ¡°Why are we cursed to toil under the Earth? We wish for the sun, but all we have is darkness. Long have we wished to feel the breeze blow and the sun warm our skin.¡± and so they, scorning the spirits, left their cavern halls, and glimmering tunnels and went to live among the trees in the forest. And given their small stature made they their home among the trees; watching all manner of woodland creature from the canopies. While those who stayed became lost in the riches of the Earth, and in their greed cared not for the spirits. For they found joy in the labor of their own hands and the creations wrought by their own cunning and strength. And they, in their pride, sought not for the help of those spirits in whose care they were left. Now man that were given the face of the earth to roam, and a curious lot were they, sought after knowledge with a unquenchable thirst. Oft did they converse with the leviathans, calling unto them from those watery depths, offering food and gifts. And though men did hunger after knowledge, they found themselves drawn to fear. Fear of that darkness that seemed to consume all life. And so they sought after the knowledge of prolonging life. They conversed with spirits oft, and from that knowledge of their inevitable demise, men questioned their own purpose, for they could not weave the chaos of the universe as did their creator, nor could they fathom what laid in the in the far reaches beyond their sphere of existence. And so man sought after their own purpose. They searched through their records and while some came to believe they found their purpose, others did not. contentions rose, and those spirits that stayed to tend after this flock tried to assuage their fear and bring back the peace that once was, but despite their efforts, they failed.


    Contentions festered upon the Earth. The spirits anguished, for they had come to love man. Some seeking to aid man gave themselves wholly and from this did men change. First came the Nephelium, strong and proud men were they already. And in the mountains did they live before this spirit, seeing their suffering as they fought to protect their home, imparted himself wholly among them. It was then that they grew in stature, and from the backs erupted wings radiant and ethereal. They were kind to those around them but quick where they taken up in pride. For they watched as a generation seemed to pass as they stayed in youth. And in their hubris did they forget the mercy of that spirit that gave himself for them.


    Then came the quintans, and in the shadow of those mountains did they call home. They saw the long life that the Nephelium were given and they did envy after them. And in the shadow of the mountain did they grow with disdain. And their skin turned to the color of the night sky, and horns did bud from their head. Their eyes glowed with an ethereal color and strange gifts were they given. And it came to pass that in this malice did they grow strong. At first they were short lived, but it was said they stole the powers of the spirits and learned to bequeath upon themselves the life of others.


    Quickly did all others grow to mistrust and fear them, and they were cast out from among the children of men and were hated and scorned by most. So to themselves they kept.


    And many other manner of things were brought about. Among them being the Slaught, but of the Slaught little is known; for they are a short-lived race that knows only war and bloodshed.


    And the Spirits that tended this earth became divided. Some looked upon all the creatures and saw that they could not help and despaired. For they knew that they could not help all, but they could help some. So they wandered, searching for those worthy of their knowledge and wisdom. Others looked and saw those settlements of men and to them they went, seeking to aid them and all those therein.


    Though divided in how they could once again attain peace, they worked towards it all the same. And whether it was through guiding a village or guiding of an individual did they, the spirits, take unto themselves those who were worthy, and join with them. And it came to pass that they, the Ambient, those men and spirits who made a contract and did share their experience as one being, did once again lead the children of men to a peace.


    - Histories of Amayara

 The Road Home

    The Sky shone a brilliant blue with clouds floating as if nothing were wrong in the world. Singing birds fluttered through the air, almost mimicking the cloud¡¯s attitude. A crook babbled a little ways off the road as if it had never-ending gossip to tell of how quick the squirrels were to lose their nuts, or where a group of fox had found their last meals. A carpet stretched from the forest¡¯s edge made of pine cones and needles. Evergreen trees hiding the gossipy crook, their needled branches bouncing with glee as the wind passed by, telling it news of far-off lands. The all-encompassing bright green seemed to take up everything, their great canopies leaving a cool shadow on the forest floor. Walking down the path, there was a lone man on his horse. Sword at his hip and dressed for adventure, but from his demeanor, you would never think it. A cloud of smoke escaping his lips as he strolled down the path.


    ¡°Beautiful day, ain¡¯t it Winni?¡± Eren asked as they made their way down the path, more declaring it than asking. ¡°What a shame you can¡¯t speak, though. Imagine the conversation we would have if you could.¡± he took another smoke from his pipe as he rode along, letting out a rather large smoke circle as he blew out. ¡°Well, look at that one, would you. I would say that was the biggest one yet, eh?¡± patting the horse¡¯s side as they rode along, Winfrey let out a small neigh as they walked.


    For Eren, all was right. A pouch of money jingled around his waist as he walked, and a bag full of provisions and goods sat on his back and hung from his saddlebags. ¡°You know ole Winni, it¡¯s good that lad a reminded me the date last week. After being out for so long, I nearly forget that Fred¡¯s birthday was coming up, and with the time we¡¯re making, we might even get back a day early. I mean, just look around us. We¡¯re nearly at the crossing. I might even find a traveling companion who will actually talk to me cause Spirits know I¡¯m getting tired of talking to a horse that can¡¯t actually talk to me.¡± Eren leaned forward, his head falling forward and shoulders slumping. ¡°A month on the road and not a single traveler that is going the same way as us,¡± Eren exclaimed as he straightened his back again and then looked to the sky, letting the reins slide from his hands. ¡°I mean, we had that one chap camp with us for the night, but he barely spoke. All he wanted to do was eat, then sleep. Then not even a word when he left.¡± He let out a sigh as he absentmindedly watched the clouds pass over. ¡°Well, on the good side, it doesn¡¯t look like rain today. I wonder how the crops are doing at home. It hasn¡¯t rained much this season now, has it?¡± Eren sighed again as he finally sat up and watched the trees as they passed. The Sun shone bright as it finally broke free from the forest¡¯s grasp. ¡°This seems the best spot of any if you ask me Winni.¡± said Eren as he steered her off the path back into the cool shadow of the forest. ¡°a nice River to drink from and plenty of shade. let¡¯s rest for a bit, eat, and bath cause even the Great Spirits know can probably smell the two of us,¡± Eren grunted as he hopped off and relieved Winfrey of his load. Looking around, he saw the mischievous look coming from the fox hiding in the brush not far off. ¡°Alright Winni, keep an eye on our stuff don¡¯t want a fox or racoon making off with it.¡± Eren said as he tied Winni to the nearest tree, making sure to give her plenty of slack. Eren reached down, pulling a coarse brush from his bag and patting Winfrey¡¯s back as the brush started to glide along the horse¡¯s side. The rhythmic motion lulling Eren into a sleepy mood. A soft neigh and a head toss pulled Eren back.


    ¡°That should be good.¡± Eren stepped back and returned the brush to his bag as the creek¡¯s babbling wove its way to Eren¡¯s ears. Standing back up, Eren made his way through the veil of trees to the creek¡¯s edge. ¡°not big enough to do much with.¡± Eren looked down at the water and kneeled bringing his face to the water and with cupped hands splashed his face, the icy water taking off the layer of sweat the covered it. Then pulling out a rag started with his arms and then to his chest. The icy water bring a shiver as Eren relished the moment.


    Winfrey¡¯s ears perked as her head lifted as she watched Eren emerge from the trees. Water dripping from the rag as he wrung it out and put it around his neck. Eren paused as he stretched his back and then dug into his bag, pulling out jerky and an apple. instantly Winfrey let out a rolling ¡°Nnnnrrrhhh¡± as he made his way to Eren and nudged him with his nose. eye fixated on the apple. ¡°Calm down.¡± Eren chuckled as his hand brought the apple to the horse¡¯s mouth, its hard whiskers scratching against Eren¡¯s palm as the apple disappeared. looking up, Eren took a bite, and slowly chewed, watching as the sun had already started its westerly descent.


    ¡°Well, we best get going again if we want to make the crossroads today.¡± He said as he finally got to mounting the saddle. The cool wind blowing on his back as they set out again. An occasional conversation would break out, but ultimately Eren just listened as the birds sang birds and to the creek¡¯s babble as it occasionally broke free from the forest. The wind whispered as it made its way through the trees and the tall grass, swaying the branches till a sudden snap broke the silence. Eren¡¯s eyes shot to the shadows as he saw the startled buck bolt deeper into the shadows. Then slowly the wind started to die down, and the birds stopped their singing, only for the crickets to start theirs, and Eren watched on as his shadow started to wander from underneath him to in front of him.


    Looking farther ahead, Eren¡¯s eyes shone as his back straightened up trying to get a better view of the two roads intersecting ahead. and then looking down the other road, Eren could see two figures slowly making their way towards the intersection. ¡°Well spirit¡¯s take us, I think we¡¯re in luck Winni.¡± Eren exclaimed, breaking the silence he had held for a while. ¡°It looks like we might have company tonight, an abundance even.¡± Eren said as he stood up in his saddle, seeing two people riding down the other path towards the crossroads. ¡°With any luck, they¡¯ll be heading our way¡± Eren pulled on the reins, bringing Winfrey to a stop as he squinted, trying to make out anything about the riders. ¡°and with even more luck it might be Jon and Scarlet.¡± Eren sat back down, grabbing the reins and giving Winni a quick kick as she started to trot. ¡°Looks to be a man and a woman riding Winfrey, might even be heading to Passis.¡± Eren¡¯s hope grew as he saw them stop at the crossroad to look his direction and wait. Looking at the girl, a tug pulled at Eren¡¯s lips as her flowing blonde hair became more visible, her posture tall, almost regal. And at her side sat a shorter stocky man with a thin beard and short brown hair.


    ¡°Eren,¡± a boisterous laugh erupted from him as Eren got within arms length. ¡°You seem a bit more ugly than last I saw you, but maybe my memory is failing me.¡± Jon said as Eren finally arrived, his hand stretched out.


    ¡°Jon, last I remembered your horse could barely hold you,¡± Eren joked as he reached out and Clasped Jon¡¯s forearm. ¡°Are you both wanting to make camp here tonight or do you both want to ride through the night?¡± Eren looked to Scarlet; her eyes sparkled as a smile lit up her face, her hair flowing as the wind pulled at its loose strands.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see why we shouldn¡¯t camp here.¡± Jon patted the bag that hung off his saddle. ¡°I have a good bottle of rum that needs drinking,¡± Jon smiled as they all started making their way to a clearing off the path. ¡°hell, what¡¯s a reunion of friends without drinks and tales?¡± Jon said as the sun finally dipped down past the Horizon.


    ¡°So, Eren, how was that merchant on the road? From the looks of him, he seemed really skittish traveling. Almost like he didn¡¯t want to leave the village.¡± Scarlet said as she stretched her arms reaching towards the darkening sky. ¡°Seemed like a bit of a handful, if you ask me.¡±


    ¡°You would not believe this man Scar,¡± Eren took a breath as he finally dropped his saddlebags to the ground and unpacked his tent. ¡°getting this man to sleep in the beginning was a near impossible. He jumped at the sound of every mouse that ran though our camp.¡± Eren said chuckling ¡°He thought every cloaked traveler was a Quintan looking for his next meal, and every gust of wind was a Nephilim that was flying about.¡± Eren unrolled the tent and untangled the rope and stakes. ¡°but after the first week he calmed down, and by the second week, we even had a traveling companion.¡± Eren pulled the ropes tight then hammering down the stakes watching as the tent took shape.


    ¡°So I can understand the Quintan Scare¡­. somewhat,¡± Jons tent a simple lean to, was already standing as he started to work towards a fire¡± but why the Nephilim? I mean, they rarely leave their beloved city and there isn¡¯t even a Nephilim settlement till you reach the mountains, and that¡¯s nowhere near where you were going.¡± Jon said, small arms starting to fill his hands.


    ¡°Whelp, the man has always wanted to see one, and thought that his luck paired with traveling would bring one to his cart. This man¡¯s imagination ran wild out there,¡± Eren said as he tightened the final cord for his tent.


    ¡°He sounds a lot like you when we were younger,¡± said Jon as he dropped his armful of sticks and logs. ¡°I feel as if it were yesterday when you nearly fell out of that tree thinking you saw one of em. And then it turned out it was just a hawk flying past with a rabbit in its talons.¡± Jon stooped down, arranging the sticks into a teepee. ¡°Remember that you had us following that hawk for miles and the disappointment when it flew down low enough for you to actually make it out?¡± Jon let out a small chuckle that was joined by Scarlet.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.¡°Well you know what they say don¡¯t you?¡± Eren asked a smile on his lips as a scarlet and Jon both stopped what they were doing and looked at Eren. silence filled the air as they waited for an answer.


    ¡°What do they say Eren?¡± Scarlet asked brows furrowed finally breaking the silence.


    ¡°I dont know i was hoping you guys knew.¡± Eren said as he held back his chuckle.


    A stick flew through the air and a thump rung out as it hit Eren in the chest.


    ¡°how do you not get dumber when you tell such stupid jokes Eren¡± smoke started to rise from the teepee of sticks.


    laughter rang through the air and the moon soared high in the night sky. as the aroma of cooked meats and sauteed onions filled the air.


    ¡°so let me tell you¡± Eren said through a mouthful of meat ¡°This trader knew nothing of living in the road. Every snapped twig had him jumping. The first few nights of traveling with him was horrible.¡±


    ¡°what, was he yelping with the blowing wind¡± Scarlet laughed


    ¡°No, worse. every hour he kept waking me up saying a pack of wolves was surrounding the camp, or a lone figure standing in the woods. damn near started tieing him up at night.¡± Eren chuckled as he took another bite. ¡°New traders are the worse, but at the same time they are the most profitable¡± Eren said smirking as the sounds of clinking coins came from his bag.


    The night air seemed to calm and settle around them bringing an air of calm while the moons light fell through the trees making the woods almost seem a dream. a twig broke and Eren¡¯s eyes dashed to find it


    ¡°Oh calm down Eren, theirs nothing dangerous in these woods except for the racoons that would steal the coin purse you¡¯re so fond of. ¡° Jon said with a smirk. Jon grabbed another stick and stoked the fire bring the flame back to life after having turned to just a small stream of smoke floating through the air. Eren¡¯s eyes continued to search the dark recesses of the woods. searching out the dark patches and trying to see what lay in them.


    ¡°The other night I saw a something strange, but I wasnt sure if it was a dream or not.¡± Eren said as his eyes finally came back to the fire. bringing his cup to his mouth he took another sip. ¡°a blue antlered wolf. I never seen one before and half thought they were just a myth. But it came from the woods, bout three days ago. Iit just walked out of the darkness and just stared. it seemed to want to tell me something but it didn¡¯t or mabye couldn¡¯t speak. and behind it the woods seemed dark and menacing making the traders fear all real.¡± Eren paused as he gazed into the fire and took another mouthful.


    ¡°Well it looks to me like that traders paranoia has passed to you. There¡¯s been no dangers here since that pack of quintan tried to take up residency in the caves near the woods. and the crowns guard saw to it they moved from the cave to the next life.¡± Jon put his bowl on the ground and took another swig.


    ¡°to me it sounds like a spirit was trying to tell you something, and its not impossible for change to happen Jon.¡± Scarlet said as she rubbed her hands together and put them next to the fire. ¡° When we get back ill let the village guard know and and well look into it. It sounds to me like a wandering spirits warning, and it does no good to ignore that.¡± Scarlet and Erens eyes met as the fires crackling filled the night air. ¡°But that¡¯s something for tomorrow. and its getting late.¡± Scarlet stood stretched and let a yawn escaped her lips. Eren¡¯s eyes were frozen ¡°well goodnight. I intend to sleep in an actual bed tomorrow and that calls for us to rise with the sun tomorrow morning.¡± Turning around she started to walk to her tent. Eren was frozen. watching scarlet go. her confidence apparent with each step she took. Pulling her knife she tossed it in the air catching it with ease. and nearing the the tree her tent lay under she gave it a light throw looking back to Eren as a dull thud sounded from the tree. ¡° I suggest you both go to sleep shortly, and dont burn down the forest with that fire, Aeron says he¡¯ll make sure you two burn with it¡± scarlet stooped down and then disappeared behind her tent flap.


    ¡°Well damn lover boy, could you make it more obvious.¡± Jon chuckled as he took another bite. ¡°why dont you ask to take her to dinner already, maybe, even ask her to have your babies.¡± a smirk on his lips as he watched Eren cough his rum now on the ground, and over his shirt. ¡°That was a good drink,¡± Jon grabbed his stomach as laughter broke through the night¡¯s calm ¡°why¡¯d you go and waste it like that?¡±


    ¡°Jon, she¡¯s right there. she can still hear you; you deaf son of a bitch.¡± Eren hissed trying to keep his voice low


    ¡°Well if your not going to make anything happen I figured I might as well help you out¡± now pointing his stick at Eren he continued ¡° If you keep waiting some other lucky prick is going to take her out of your hand. and believe me, you have her in your hand; just stop being such a little bitch.¡± Jon continued taking another bite as a rock sailed through the air striking him in the side of the head.


    ¡°I swear if that rock was any sharper than your head wouldve have popped.¡± Eren said as he got up and tossed his stick into the fire. ¡°I¡¯m going for a quick walk in the woods. have fun doing what ever idiots do .¡± Eren said with a smile on his face as he disappeared into the shadows of the trees. The crackle of the fire slowly faded as he went farther into the darkness. Slivers of moonlight made their way through the branches and leaves as the babbling creek sounded off in the distances.


    ¡°Green woods with water blue,


    fishes here and foxes too.


    Moonlight, the stars bright


    the sun fast asleep.¡± Eren sung softly.


    Humming, he kneeled next to the river filling his waterskin, and taking a gulp. A splash followed shortly his feet now soaking in the river. Glancing up towards the night sky Eren found mostly branches, with the occasional patch of starry night breaking through. Eren¡¯s shoulder¡¯s tensed as a shiver ran down Eren¡¯s spine ¡°Why dont you come on out, it¡¯s off putting to have you stalking me like I¡¯m prey.¡± Eren announced as he let out a breath and stared at the dark undergrowth on the other side of the stream. Blue light shown from behind the trees and overgrown bushes. ¡°So it looks like you weren¡¯t a dream after all¡± Eren said as the antlered wolf exited from the bush. ¡°I¡¯m curious are antlered wolves just a shape that spirits take on, or are they actualy animals that slowly dwindled till now, where their not seen much anymore.¡± Silently, it walked next to the creek looking Eren in the eyes and sat opposite him. In silence they both sat with the peace of night all around them. Neither moving as the night went on. The pit that was in Eren¡¯s stomach started to ease as he finally spoke. ¡° What is it that you want? If you wanted to warn me of something I already told the Ambient charged with the safety of these lands.¡± Silence ensued as the Wolf let out a snort and looked from the river back to Eren. ¡°Look if you¡¯re trying to tell me something I¡¯m not understanding.¡± the Wolf let out a low growl as he looked back towards the woods. Eren looked and saw nothing but the light glow from the wolf fade. once more the wolf let out another growl as it looked back at Eren now standing. It let out a howl, and it¡¯s light exploded outward. Eren stood and jumped back falling down on the bank of the creek. and looking back the wolf was gone his blue light fading as it ran into the woods. ¡°What in the fucking world was its problem¡± Scrambling back to his feet Eren looked around trying to spot what the problem was. squinting Eren looked into the looming darkness all around. The blue light faintly a glow now, and slipping away like a dying ember. ¡°What is with all the ominous stuff you dumb spirit. Just speak plainly!¡± Eren yelled. the pitch black seemed to swallow his words whole. looking more like a smokey haze than a normal darkness. A weight seemed to appear on Eren¡¯s shoulders as he squinted his eyes adjusting to the murky black that encompassed him.


    The silence was thick as if the forest became devoid of it, and shivers ran down his spine again as eyes seemed to be staring at him from every directions, pressing in, watching and waiting. The pit in Eren¡¯s stomach seemed to widen and deepen, and a cold hand seemed to grab at his heart turning the blood in Eren to ice. his hand went to the hilt of his blade, gripping it tighter than he ever had. Slowly he started walking, every vine and every piece of undergrowth grabbing and clawing at his legs and arms.


    Eren¡¯s jaw was clenched tighter than he thought possible as he walked back with his hand glued to his hilt. A snap echoed through the darkness and Eren¡¯s blade slashed into the moonlight; his head darting back and forth. Hands clammy and throat dry. A shiver went down Erens back as he circled looking for the sound. And finally looking down his shoulders heaved as his sword found its place in its hilt. adn staring at the broken branch underfoot. ¡°It was just me.¡± Eren whispered. ¡°Just me¡±

 The Kings First Touch

    A grunt came from the darkness nearby. Eren¡¯s heart seemed to jump in his chest as he turned to face the sound, both hands gripping his sword and his face pale. A shadow slowly sat up, looking around and padding the ground as if it was looking for something. His hands grew cold and sweaty as he silently got closer. Slowly, the head started to turn and look Eren¡¯s direction. ¡± Eren¡­¡± Jon¡¯s voice slurred as he used his sword to help him to his feet. Eren silently raised his hand as he neared Jon. It felt almost wrong to break the silence ¡°Something came from behind, didn¡¯t get the chance to see but its seemed as if the whole field sounded of foot step but i didnt see a soul¡± Eren neared Jon seeing a dark ink reflecting the moons light on his face.


    ¡°Are you okay? Looks like you lost a good bit of blood.¡±


    ¡°Feels like a boulder hit my head, but it¡¯s not too bad, I think.¡± Jon¡¯s hand went to his forehead, feeling a gash as he tenderly prodded at the lump that sat above his brow. A gust of wind blew throughout the field and then quieted back to a complete silence. Leaving behind only the quick scamper of steps rushing towards them. ¡°Eren behind you,¡± said Jon as he dropped flat on the ground. Eren turned, his blade slashing an arc over Jon as he continued, his spin coming almost a full circle. The moonlight shone cold on the steel of his sword, white then red as it¡¯s the slash connected and cut clean through the small creature that leaped through the air. Another chill racked Eren as he saw what he brought his sword down on. Two thumps sounded as the halves of the body fell to the ground. Jon stared as the top end fell to the ground with a sickening thud.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll be damned a fucking gnome. gnomes almost never attack people. What is this?¡± getting up, Jon rolled its face so the empty eyes stared to the ground. ¡°And what in the fuck are they doing here this close to the forest¡¯s edge?¡± Jon¡¯s brows furrowed as he scratched it his chin and carefully wiped the blood out of his eye.


    Looking to the camp destroyed tents drew his attention. all three laid on the ground, the canvas torn. all remnants of the fire gone, and the horses not in sight.


    ¡°What the hell.¡± Eren whispered as he walked through the wreckage. ¡°Scarlet?¡± the call disappearing into the night. Eren¡¯s ear strained as he listened harder. His steps quickened as he hurried to her tent. ¡°Scarlet?¡± his voice riddled with worry as an icy hand seemed to creep into his chest. The wind softly blew, finally bringing some sound back to the field. Eren rushed through the rest of the camp, His eyes darting back and forth as he scanned the ground looking for anything that could have been Scarlet. ¡°SCARLET!¡± Eren¡¯s Screamed his voice filling the night.


    ¡°Eren, over here!¡±


    Eren nearly tripped as he rushed to get to Jon at the forest¡¯s edge. Jon¡¯s hand lifted as Eren reached his side. A short sword hanging in his grip. ¡°I found it here next to a trail of something getting dragged. I can¡¯t see if there is blood or not, but the ground feels dry.¡±


    ¡°SSCCAARRLLEETT¡± Eren¡¯s screamed hung in the air filling the night air. His head cocked as he desperately waited to hear her voice calling back.


    ¡°Eren. if we haven¡¯t already heard her screaming out, she¡¯s probably out cold or gagged.¡± Jon looked back at Eren, his brows creased, worry just as evident. ¡°But don¡¯t worry we¡¯ll find her Eren.¡± Jon walked further into the woods as the moonlights broke through the clouds ¡°and it won¡¯t even be that hard look¡± Jon pointed to the ground, overturned dirt , broken branches, and pulled weeds marked the path. ¡°These gnomes might have easily hid in the tall grass, but they can¡¯t hide that easily dragging a body behind them.¡± silently Jon started down the trail, stopping every so often his hands and face near the ground as studied the ground and then quickly moved forward.


    Eren followed, walking quietly and praying silently. The surrounding dark seemed to grow thicker and thicker as they pressed on. Eren¡¯s muscled tense as the dark malice started to almost feel tangible. The Encounter with the Wolf came to mind, and with it, guilt.


    Why didn¡¯t I just stay at camp? Eren thought, and just as quickly as it appeared, he pushed it back down. ¡°No time to dwell on past mistakes.¡± Was all he whispered as he followed Jon, the darkness almost seeming a fog.


    Jon stopped as he sniffed the air. ¡°smoke¡± was all he said as he turned to Eren. they kept on slower now. both straining their ears, listening for the crackling of a fire, or the muffled scream. Eren pulled Jon back and pointed towards a soft glow ahead. Jon pulled his bow from his back and knocked an arrow as they pushed forward. The silence filled the air as they were almost at the camp. Only a strange chanting filled the silence. Eren tensed as they came into the clearing as darkness and malice filled his chest. The sight did nothing to help. Candles had been lit, and sigils were carved in the surrounding dirt. Most of the gnomes passed out on the ground and one stood on an outcropping of rock, eyes closed and chanting something Eren couldn¡¯t understand, and there in the center of it all laid Scarlet tied, gagged, and unconscious.


    ¡°Well what in the fuck is this?¡± Jon whispered as he came out of the shadows. Eren heard the twang from Jon¡¯s bowstring as the chanting went silent, replaced by a soft thud as the gnome¡¯s body as the ground. Eren slowly walked into the light and prodded the body of an unconscious gnome; nothing. Eren put his finger to its throat.


    ¡°It¡¯s dead.¡±


    ¡°this one too.¡± Jon stood up and walked to Eren ¡°I don¡¯t like this. lets get her and get back.¡± Eren sheathed his sword and pulled out his dagger as he kneeled next to scarlet and lifted her head. The dagger cut through the gag with almost no resistance. Eren grew tense as he could feel the bloodlust in the air around him. looking back at Jon Eren saw him scanning the woods nearly jumping at every shadow that moved. looking back to scarlet Eren jumped back and fell, his heart nearly stopping as she stared. His hand jumped to his sword hilt, and feet fruitlessly trying to gain purchase as he tried to get back up. wordlessly Scarlet stared at Eren as she was laying back on the ground. her eyes unblinking. Jon¡¯s bow already knocked and pointed at scarlet. letting out a breath Jon released the tension in the bow and with a sigh walked briskly towards them.


    ¡°damn near scared the piss out of me Eren.¡± Jon said, letting out a silent, tensioned laugh. ¡°Cut her free and let¡¯s get out of here.¡± Jon quickly turned again, searching through the shadows of the forest, eyes jumping towards anything that moved. Slowly Eren got to his feet and stared back at Scarlet. her eyes seeming darker and her face expressionless. Eren walked back towards her, his feet the heaviest they felt in his life. Each step made his heart beat harder, and the darkness he felt all around seemed to get thicker the closer he got to her.


    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°Eren, will you hurry up and untie me.¡± scarlet asked. her voice was the same it always been. but it felt as if it was heavier somehow. before Eren could think about it he stooped down and cut the ropes holding her. ¡°Thanks, took you long enough.¡± she stretched and got up. Rubbing her wrists she stood up and looked towards Jon.


    ¡°Alright lets get out of here, this place doesn sit right with me.¡± Jon said as he led the way back towards the main road. scarlet followed leaving Eren in the rear. ¡°Hey Eren make sure you keep a good eye out, I dont think those gnomes were alone.¡±


    ¡°No shit¡± was all Eren said as they made their way through the woods. Eren¡¯s eyes darted to and fro as they made their way back. the darkness of the forest seemed deeper to Eren and everything around him felt hostile. every branch that reached down and touched his neck sent shivers down his spine, and every twig that snapped made his heart stop. The unease seemed thick enough to grab. The blue wolf flickered through his thoughts, almost as if a warning he just couldn¡¯t quite grasp.


    Something¡¯s Wrong Eren thought as he turned to tell Jon and Scarlet. His breath seemed to get stuck in his throat as he turned, Scarlet¡¯s dagger catching the moonlight; a glinting a sickening red color as she brought it back down into Jon¡¯s gut. Everything seemed to stand still, and the forest held its breath. Frozen, he watched in terror, unable to move as Scarlet pulled her dagger across his gut and letting him go.


    What¡¯s happening? This can¡¯t be real, Eren thought, as he watched.


    Jon grabbed at the cut, warmth covering his hands and arms. His legs gave out as he cried out in pain. A sickening thud sounded as he hit the ground. His head rocked as his insides came spilling out like a string. Everything went silent as Eren watched Jon slowly clutching at his stomach and convulsing. Still frozen, Eren could just watch, as Jon¡¯s body convulsed, watched as he tried to stand back up and fell, watched as he struggled to turn over. Slowly, Eren looked to Scarlet. A smile covered her face and her eyes, once a dark brown, now shone Dark Red.


    Why is she laughing? Was all Eren had time to think as she darted to him, knife ready to stab. Without a thought, Eren quickly grabbed her wrist and knocked the knife away. ¡°WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT?¡± Eren screamed. His hand closing tighter as she tried to pull away. His other fist clenched close, his knuckles shone white in the moonlight.


    Nothing. Scarlet just stared back, her lips still smiling. Eren¡¯s free fist flew and connected solidly with the side of her head. ¡°ANSWER ME!¡± Eren yelled. still nothing. Grabbing her belt now, he shifted his weight and threw her to the ground. Scarlet¡¯s smiled faded to pain as her back hit and the air was forced from her lungs. Eren pulled his dagger from the sheath as he got on top of her, pinning each arm under his leg. Putting his dagger to her throat, he took a breath. ¡°I¡¯m going to ask again, why?¡± was all Eren could manage to say while his mouth clenched close. Scarlet gasped and took in shallow careful breaths. As the knife pressed harder against her throat, a bead of blood started to well up against the blade of the knife.


    ¡°Oh, my sweet Eren¡ª¡± she weezed. ¡°If only you knew.¡± she paused again. ¡°If only you could do what was needed.¡± She laughed only to stop and wince in pain. Then stared right into Eren¡¯s eyes. Before Eren could respond his vision went black the smell of dead bodies took over all his sense.


    finally seeing past the darkness strewn bodies were all he could see. His village burning, and his brother lying on the ground strewn in half, his dad stabbed through and his mother thrown to the ground, her neck bending unnaturally. he watched as the beasts from the forest were running through the town devouring all who got in their way. the walls destroyed, and screaming was everywhere. Eren¡¯s blood ran cold, as all he could do was stare. Fear gripped him as tears started to pour, and a sharp pain arched through his chest. His vision was once again consumed by darkness.


    the dark forest once again was all around him, The back of his head pressed against the cool forest dirt. Taking in a deep breath as he wobbled as turned and struggled to his knees; feeling the dagger stuck in his shoulder. His elbows almost buckling as he felt his stomach churn and twist, the taste of bile filling his mouth. And with a violent heave, released the contents of his stomach on the forest floor.


    ¡°oh my sweet Eren if only you let me kill you.¡± Scarlet looked down at him as she took a step back and then with a disappointed click of her tongue she turned, leaving only the soft sounds of her steps as she disappeared into the shadows.


    Eren struggled getting back up. Leaning against a tree and pulling the dagger free from his shoulder. ¡°SCARLET!¡± the scream escaping weakly at first the taste of bile still coating his mouth ¡°SCARRRLETT!¡±


    Silence followed, then the sobs. Eren gasped for air as he wiped the tears again and again. The dark mist that seemed to fill the forest started to life as the moon¡¯s soft glow filled the woods. the Bloodlust filled atmosphere dissipating as the night calm returned. A gentle breeze fluttered the tree tops almost as if cueing the cicadas to start their rhythmic chanting.


    Eren stood there frozen. Regret filled every crevice of his body. His shoulders heaved as tears streamed down his face. ¡°Why did. Why did this happen.¡± now trying to talk through his sobs. ¡°I do- dont understand. more cries broke out as he fell to his knees and grasped his chest. his cries the only thing that broke through the cicadas¡¯ song. He threw down his dagger and the rivers flowed down his cheeks.


    A branch snapped nearby. quickly Eren got to his feet ¡°FUCK. Jon you¡¯re still alive?¡± his voice cracked and desperate, unable to comprehend how Jon was still alive. Eren¡¯s heart raced as he got up running to Jon as he clung to the only thing that could pull him from this nightmare.


    ¡°Eren.¡± Jon¡¯s voice is barely loud enough to be heard over the cicadas. ¡°Ere¡ª¡± it came weaker this time.


    Eren sprung towards Jon¡¯s voice and found him right on his back his arms at his side. Blood covered his chest and arms. Quickly Eren sat down and pulled Jon¡¯s head to his lap. Jon only grunted. blood spurted as it flowed even heavier onto the ground. Eren grabbed at the intestines that laid on the ground, desperately trying to scoop them and put them back into Jon.


    ¡°It¡¯s going to be okay, Jon. trust me, you¡¯ll be okay.¡± Eren rubbed his sleeve across his face, trying to see through the tears. He looked at Jon¡¯s eyes, their light slowly fading. His once red cheeks now looked pale white.


    ¡°Eren, it se¡ª¡± Jon gave a weak cough, ¡°You alw-always did hate goodbyes.¡± Jon wheezed as a small pained laugh escaped his lips. Reaching up, he grabbed Eren¡¯s hand. ¡°I don¡¯t know¡± Jon paused as he struggled to breathe, wincing in pain as he took a deeper breath. ¡°don¡¯t know what came over Scar. but they did something to her.¡± he paused again his eyes shifted from Eren skyward. ¡°Always wanted to know what lied past the places we went Eren¡± Jon coughed and pausing as the pain racked him. ¡°What this world had to offer, and what its people had to give.¡± Jon paused again, this time his eyes fell back to Eren. His breathing became raspy and weakly as he reached for his chest pocket. ¡°carry me with you¡± he gasped


    ¡°Always.¡± Eren grabbed at Jon¡¯s hand, feeling the coin fall from his grip.


    Jon¡¯s head fell onto Eren¡¯s lap and was still. Eren bent down, unable to speak. His face buried in Jon¡¯s chest. A scream flew from Eren¡¯s lips as he continued to cry. Loud sobs filled the woods. Eren couldn¡¯t move; refused to move. He felt a hand on his shoulder and still he sat, only moving as his shoulders heaved with each sob. The hand had a warmth to it unlike anything Eren had felt. Weightless, yet having all the weight of dreams and hopes carried in it. And as quickly as he had felt it, it was gone. Sitting up, Eren looked up to the sky. A light flickered and then was gone into the starry night sky. Then, looking down, he opened his hand, seeing Jon¡¯s beloved lucky coin.


    ¡°Bye Jon.¡± Eren sniffled, and more tears flowed. ¡°Bye,¡± he whispered as he pulled Jon to him and embraced him one last time. The birds chirping finally and soft morning light finally brought him back. Slipping the coin into his pocket, he finally stood up. Looking back towards the road, he saw it was only a little way off. The forest ended and the sea of grass began. As gently as he could, he picked up Jon and carried him the rest of the way to camp, and gently set him down. The rest Eren could hardly remember doing. Pulling the shovel from his bag, digging the hole, finding rocks for a marker, and finally burying him.


    As he stared at the grave, he still almost couldn¡¯t believe what happened. ¡°This has to be a dream.¡± Eren Whispered ¡°This can¡¯t be real.¡± Eren clenched his fists as he fell to his knees. Light started to flood the field as the grass seemed to glow in the morning light. and sitting next to the grave Eren sat Staring lost in everything that had happened that night. The sound of hoofbeats breaking the silence of the morning.


    Tears streamed down his face as he watched three riderless horses returning from where ever they had run to. Winfrey nuzzled Eren¡¯s cheek as he sat motionless. Staring at the sea of grass, the breeze blowing it making it seem like waves were flowing through the top of the grass. And slowly the cicadas¡¯ rhythmic chants ended, and the birds started their songs and took flight searching for their morning meals, but still Eren sat, unwilling to leave.


    When Eren finally looked up, the sun was already high in the sky, about to start its westward descent. ¡°Its almost midday. I could be at the village by nightfall.¡± Eren sighed as he finally got up. His shoulder ached as he felt fresh blood starting to flowing. Feeling his shoulder, he looked back to the grave and let his hand fall back down. ¡°everything hurts,¡± Eren whispered, feeling hollow and empty. Softly he patted the Winfrey¡¯s head, and bringing it in close, hugged the horse. He waited for tears to come but there were none left. And in silence, he made for home

 Ashes and Ruin

    Chapter 3


    <h2>Ashes and Ruin</h2>


    Eren¡¯s head hung low, his eyes void of the light that was there just the day before. His shirt stuck to his chest, each step a fresh wave of pain emanated from his shoulder, but Eren paid it no mind. Pain was the only thing that kept him in reality.


    The horse¡¯s slow steps seemed to echo all around. The trees seemed to blur, and the grasslands stretched into what seemed an eternity. Eren¡¯s gaze stayed constant, looking at the ground, though not truly seeing anything. No words came from his lips, the only sound came from the occasional neigh from Winnifred. The sun was nearly gone when Eren woke up from his half awake reality.


    Eren sniffed at the air, catching the smell of smoke. ¡°What does it matter?¡± Eren willed himself to go back to the Trance he had been in all day. Almost begrudgingly, he looked up again as the question of where it was coming from crept back into his mind, trying to force him to come back from his trance. His shoulders hunched as he weakly gripped the reins. Eren felt Winifred get tense beneath him as she neighed. Her reluctance to continue was obvious. Her pace came to a near standstill. Lifting his head, finally taking his eyes from the ground, he looked up. Only the empty road lay ahead of him, with Passis still an hour''s ride at his pace.


    ¡°Why?¡± Eren sighed. His mind was still thick with fog. Worry gripped Eren as the fog started to lift.


    The shadows became all-encompassing as the sun sunk below the horizon. Eren looked forward to Passis. The wind buffeted him and looking up past the top of the trees,  Eren could see a smoke cloud larger than any he saw before.


    ¡°What the hell?¡± His voice came out almost a whisper as he straightened up in the saddle and kicked at Winifred¡¯s sides, taking her from a walk to a gallop as fast as she could. The smell got stronger with each stride. What hung in the air as a faint smell now filled Eren¡¯s lungs in a thick sheet. The night sky filled with black clouds. Rounding the bend, a sea of flames erupted into sight. Sweat beaded on his forehead as Winifred sped down the road. The forest bordering the road was no longer visible through the smoke that filled the air. The screams from the town clearly filled the night.


    Confusion and panic made every thought in Eren disappear, his mind empty except for silent prayer. ¡°keep them safe.¡±


    Finally, Passis came into view, its walls, once thick and made from stone and wood, now laid broken and burning. Winifred Slowed and came to a stop as the flames engulfed everything in Eren¡¯s sight.


    Eren froze, looking at his home engulfed in flames. Bodies littered the ground where the remnants of the gate stood. The smell of burnt meat and leather made Eren gag.


    ¡°GET THE HELL AWAY FROM ME DAMNIT!¡± Eren looked towards the screaming to see an old man waving a sword ¡°YA FUGGIN SLAUGHT!¡± A tall shadow came into view, its shoulders giant, and its arms covered in fur. Long claws erupting from the end of its fingers and wolf-like ears erupting from the side of its head.


    Eren shuddered. ¡°¡­.The Slaught¡± was all he could say as he watched the old man flailing his sword in vain. Thoughts Rushed through his mind as he looked on in terror. They¡¯re  supposed to be wiped out, hunted to extinction. There hasn¡¯t been a Slaught sighting in almost a decade.


    The Slaught grabbed the blade barehanded and stabbed its claws into the old man¡¯s side. Letting go of the blade away, the old man screamed and grabbed the creature¡¯s arm, trying in vain to pull himself free. His scream quickly turned to silence as he let go and went limp.


    Eren felt his body go numb as it turned to look at him. The old man¡¯s body fell to the ground as the Slaught locked eyes. Its interest turned to something alive. With a jolt, it disappeared from Eren¡¯s vision. Eren felt Winifred tense up underneath him, getting ready to bolt. Eren¡¯s hands wouldn¡¯t respond, his feet stuck in the stirrups. It felt like a dream. The heat that was almost unbearable seemed to disappear and coldness took its place. Breathing became even more difficult as the smoke filled his lungs.


    The next moments were a blur. A black flash flew from the smoke and an arm struck, launching Eren from his saddle. His vision went black and then red as his lungs seemed to stop working. And then, quick as it started, he felt the ground back beneath him hitting harder than he thought possible. Dazed, he could barely make out Winni running off around the bend and rolling over he saw the Slaught, making its way to him. its eyes seemed amused, its claws dripping, and its fur drenched in blood and smoking. It stood towering over Eren, almost twice as tall than himself, and drinking in his fear. His arms felt like led and his legs like tree roots that would not budge.


    ¡°Do something,¡± was all that he could think. ¡°Anything.¡± His hands scrambled to the hilt as he struggled to focus his thoughts. His breath finally came back as he gasped and his mind cleared. Clenching the hilt, he pulled his sword out as fast as he could and struggled to his feet. The Slaught watched, obviously amused. Eren struggled to his feet and readied his sword. It waited for Eren get up obviously wanting a fight.


    Without warning it rushed forward, slashing. Eren stepped back, almost falling, as he barely managed to duck under the massive arm. Eren brought his sword up, cutting deep into its arm and pulling it free. Its scream echoed through Eren¡¯s ears almost unbearably. Catching his balance, Eren immediately rolled as the creature¡¯s massive arm swung, just barely missed him. Getting back to his feet, Eren jumped, bringing the sword down on its shoulder. Eren felt the blood as it splattered on his face. The blade almost flew from Eren¡¯s hand as it spun and stumbled. Its arm hung limply as it stared. Anger filled its eyes as it charged, roaring loud enough that it was all Eren could hear. Eren side stepped, letting it barrel past him and just as it passed he brought his sword down on its back. A shriek sounded in the air, followed by a thud as it laid on the ground. With a yell, Eren stabbed it through the back where he guessed its heart was and felt the creature¡¯s last struggles as it quickly fell still and silent.


    Pulling the sword free, Eren stumbled back, and fell; his hands still clutching the sword as he sat there. Eren let out a long and held in breath as he stared at the corpse in front of him. His thoughts were moving so fast he couldn¡¯t keep track of them. He was breathing ,he knew he was, but it felt as if he couldn¡¯t inhale it fast enough. His vision blurred as he closed his eyes.


    A thought seemed to force its way into his head


    breath , calm down you¡¯re okay.   He felt as if a hand rested on Eren¡¯s back, and the storm inside Eren calmed. slow your breathing and calm your mind. Eren turned expecting to see someone behind him, but only saw the empty road and smoke.


    Eren felt the surrounding pressure dissipate as his breathing continued to slow. Opening his eyes, he could see clearly again, and feeling his chest, he felt his heart calm. The heat of the flame brought him back to the moment. ¡°I don¡¯t have time to sit here¡± standing back up, he looked back to the bend but Winni was nowhere to be seen. Turning back to the blaze, he made his way through the gate. Bodies littered the ground as he walked. He picked his way amongst the destruction. Occasionally a huge disfigured creature lay slain, with more bodies than Eren cared to count. It was more of the same as Eren half jogged through the smoke and ruins.


    Tears streamed down his face as he passed the blacksmith shop and the butcher, where their owners both laid in pieces.


    ¡°May the afterlife be kinder to you than this, and the Spirits guide you through your next journey.¡± Eren prayed as he stopped bowing his head slightly before moving on. Time had frozen as Eren moved through the wreckage,the only sounds emanating from the buildings collapsing around him, and the fire that crackled all around. Every so often Eren stopped as a scream sounded, but no one seemed to be in the direction it was coming from.


    Eren stopped and looked down the alleyway he was sure would lead home. Stepping into the alley, Eren paused as he stared at the destruction. He wasn''t even sure he could call it an alley any more. The smoke died down as the houses on both sides were mostly just blackened piles of wood no longer burning. Thoughts started to push their way into Eren¡¯s head.


    Are they okay? What if I¡¯m too late? How did this all happen?  Taking a breath, he forced his mind a blank slate again and pushed on, forcing himself to ignore it. Coming out of the alleyway, Eren found what he was searching for. ¡°Thank the spirits¡± Eren''s eyes beamed as he looked at a line of houses that the fires hadn''t burned down, and his  house with only a partially shattered door.


    Looking down, Eren shuttered. A Slaught laid headless at his feet, clutching a severed head in its hand. Eren stiffened as he looked at the head in its grip, his heart exploding in his chest. Eren reached down with his now shaking hand to grab the head. Pulling it free came easy enough, but turning it to see who it was made Eren freeze as the fear gripped him, sinking its claws into him and refusing to let him move. Eren¡¯s stomach started to twist and turn. Time stood still as he turned the head. Immediately Eren¡¯s shoulders hunched over as his empty stomach wrenched and turned, but nothing but bile came. Eren went numb, his knees buckling as he fell, dropping the head and staring in horror. Tears flowed down Eren¡¯s face as his father¡¯s eyes looked back into his, empty and lifeless.


    Not knowing why, Eren got back up and started searching for the body. Tripping over random body parts and debris. Eren searched for his father¡¯s body, only stopping when he found himself forearm deep in a man¡¯s back. Standing back up and looking, it was more body parts that strewed the streets than actual bodies. Eren''s vision blurred as he looked at the carnage. He let the tears fall as he looked back to the door and braced himself. His body still numb, Eren pushed open the door, and walked in. His legs felt unbearably heavy with each step. As Eren walked through the shattered door he felt his stomach tying in knots. The table in the middle of the room was flipped and bowls and plates littered the floor. Eren took another step and felt his foot hit something that rolled away. Fear once again gripped him as he looked back down,


    They were about to eat.  Eren thought as he watched the loaf of bread slowly roll to a stop. ¡°Mom¡± Eren tried to call out, but all that came out was a coarse whisper. Eren walked towards the stairs, feeling the weight of the world on his back. The stairs creaked in protest as he made his way up. Trying to peek above the stairs and down the hallway Eren¡¯s eyes lit up, as he saw his mom standing at the end of the hallway against the wall.


    ¡°Mom¡± Eren choked back a sob. The weight from Eren''s legs disappeared as he started to run up the rest of the stairs tripping on the free final steps. Eren¡¯s heart sank as he caught himself on the floor, and brought himself back to his feet and up the stairs. ¡°Mom¡± Eren stared at the broken spear shaft that held her to the wall. Looking closer Eren could see the wall behind her head shattered and her hair stuck in the splintering wood. A thud sounded as his sword slipped from his fingers, his eyes glued to her as he slowly walked down the hall.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Eren felt his hands wrap around the remaining spear shaft, and with a strong jerk tried to pull it free. Her head bowed as her body leaned forward and fell stiffly into Eren''s arms.Leaving only strands of hair and blood soaked wood that her body had kept hidden.


    ¡°Mom, please. No¡± Eren whispered. Grabbing her face, tears flowed from Eren¡¯s eyes. ¡°No. No. Please, anything but this. Why is any of this happening?¡± Eren fell to his knees as he buried his face in his hands as his cries echoing in the empty house.


    Looking back up at his mom, he wiped his face with his sleeve.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Cass?¡± Eren looked behind him and then through the shattered door on his left.


    Eren paused speechless, as he kneeled eyes wide, unable to speak.


    ¡°Eren.¡± a boy no older than 12 stepped from the shadow, his eye¡¯s dark and voice hollow. He wore a shirt with the left sleeve torn and a bloody cloth wrapped around the arm.


    ¡°Cass¡± Eren gently laid the body in his arms down and reached for Cass, grabbing his arms and squeezing them, his eyes wide as he stared in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re alive¡­¡± Eren pulled Cass into a hug. ¡°what happened, wh-¡± Eren looked back at Cass and saw only dark empty eyes. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. Cass, are you hurt?¡± Cass nodded his head, Eren looked him over only seeing the cut on his arm.


    Slowly rising, Eren took him by the shoulders, his head barely reaching Eren¡¯s chest. Looking back at their mother, Eren''s arm rested on Cass¡¯s back. A silent prayer sounded in Eren¡¯s thoughts


    I¡¯ll watch over him for you, and may the Spirits watch over you for me. Till the next life


    And pulling Cass, he walked down the stairs and made for the door.


    Eren¡¯s hand rested on Cass¡¯s chest as he looked from Cass and peeked out the door. Looking and seeing the street just as he left it, a scene of ash and ruin. Eren''s gaze drew to the familiar lump that sat next to the Slaught carcass; a pang rang in Eren¡¯s chest as he forced himself to look past it. Eren pulled his head back in the door, pulled out a dagger from his hip and kneeled facing Cass.


    ¡°If I say Run,you go on ahead and make for the gate and keep running. You go till you hit the crossroad and make for Kald¡± Eren paused as Cass just stared silently. ¡°Cass nod if you understand.¡±  Eren waited but still Cass wouldn¡¯t respond. Grabbing both his shoulders Eren shook Cass, bringing him back from the deep darkness that held him. ¡°Cass, do you understand?¡± His head nodded


    That''s probably the best I''m going to get out of him right now. Eren thought. And taking the dagger, he pushed it into Cass¡¯s hand and closed his palm around the hilt. Cass looked down at the dagger and back to Eren ¡°This is a very last resort. First, you run if you can''t run; then use it.¡± Cass looked at Eren and gave a weak nod.


    Silently they made their way through the Carnage and destruction. The screams came less, and the smoke thickened. coming to a corner Eren put his hand against Cass¡¯s chest stopping him. Peeking around the corner Eren Stared down the street.


    ¡°No bodies here¡± Eren whispered as he looked down the road and then up towards the building''s roof and the windows; most of them broken, and the doors in pieces. Flames sputtered and smoke billowed from the windows, but no soul was in sight. The dirt road, somehow, free from bodies and carnage. Eren pulled his head back from around the building and looked back at Cass. ¡°It¡¯s all clear, but keep a lookout.¡± Eren said. Eren turned the corner and looked back to see Cass was following. Eren¡¯s eye¡¯s shot back forward as a creak screamed through the air and was followed by a rumble as another building collapsed, shooting out a cloud of ash and smoke.


    Eren felt the heat from the gusting wind whip at his cheeks as he waited for the smoke to settle. Reaching back, Eren pulled Cass beside him and set off back down the street. More crashes sounded as other houses collapsed. Darkness engulfed them as the clouds of smoke blotted out the moon; only the fire¡¯s dancing red light lit their way. Eren paused and put out his hand, pressing it against Cass¡¯s chest to stop him. Eren¡¯s brows furrowed as he squinted, trying to see past the shadows and smoke that surrounded them.


    Cass pulled at Eren''s shirt stopping him as they emerged from a cloud of smoke. Eren pulled Cass farther from the cloud before stopping to turn and look. tears starrted to well in Eren''s eye''s as they burned from the smoke. squinting, Eren turned back and looked to the smoke. his ear''s strained and his eyes squinted as a figure started to take shape in the smoke. Fire crackled and another house crumbled as the figure grew came closer towering in the dark smoke. Eren''s hand shot to Cass pushing him back and turned planting his feet and standing ready for the worst.


    ¡°Cass, if i say run then leave me.¡± Eren¡¯s voice firm and steady as he gave his full attention back to the the smoke cloud.  A growl sounded through the smoke as a Slaught erupted shot out, charging at full speed. Acting before he could think Eren sprinted towards it. going into a slide as he got close. Swinging his sword he cut at its legs Eren felt the sword connect, and heard a roar coming from the Slaught. Eren slid to a stop and rolled to his feet. Looking back it had already turned and was getting ready to pounce. Eren planted his feet and watched as it jumped, seemingly flying towards him. Eren spun away and felt the ground tremble as the Slaught landed. and finishing the spin Eren was looking at the Beast''s back. and without hesitation the point of Eren''s sword cutting through the skin and muscle abruptly stopping as it hit the back side of its ribs. Eren felt it buckle as it writhed in pain and struggled to breath. a sickening wine sounded as the sword came free not taking any chances Eren plunged his sword in his back again. The beast finally stopped its struggle as it fell to the ground, its breath ragged and short.


    With a grunt Eren pulled out the sword and let out the breath he had been holding.


    ¡°Cass¡± Eren called out as he turned around and saw nothing but the empty street. His grip tightened on his sword as he frantically scanned the street and walking forward. ¡°Cass¡± Eren yelled this time.


    Eren''s was about to start running when cass came out from the alleyway he had been in. Thank the Spirits¡± Eren let out a sigh as he jogged to Cass putting a hand on his shoulder. Eren looked Cass in the eye before tusseling his hair.


    ¡°We¡¯re almost to the gate Ca-¡± Eren stopped mid sentence as he threw behind his sword pointing forward feet planted. Eren prepared himself as he watched the Slaught''s form dash through the fire light, and the smoke. its fur matted down its eyes reflecting the red fire as it continued to sprint in their direction. a scream wrenched through the air as Eren let out a cry keeping its attention on him. It sprinted full force and eren prepared to dodge the leap.


    It''s close, too close! Eren thought as he watched it run till it was too close to pounce. Eren shift his weight and put his shoulder forward as he prepared for it to ram him. Eren felt the blow of its shoulder hiting his chest knocking him aside as if he weighed nothing. Eren felt a pop then a searing pain shot through his shouler, as he rolled through the air and landed on the ground. The Air shot from his lungs like an arrow. and Eren gasped as he struggled to get to his feet he ied to push himself up only to feel lightning shoot through his shoulder with every movement.


    He rolled over and looked behind him to the Slaught chasing after Cass. ¡°Cass!¡± Eren screamed as he watched the Slaught pick him up in his jaw like a wolf would a rabbit. then shaking him shake him back and forth arms and legs flailing, Cass''s cries echoing in Eren''s ear. more out of luck then anything Cass managed to hold onto the dagger which in his flailing found home in the Slaughts face. Eren watched as the Slaughts jaw released sending Cass flying high to the sky and then with a sickening thud and crunch of bones slapped the ground wet and limp. Scrambling again Eren heard the growl as it stared at Cass now motionless on the ground. his eyes staring straight at Eren, cold and lifeless.


    ¡°Hey you piece of shit. look at me!¡± Eren yelled finally getting to his feet his left arm dangling at his side and desperation in his voice. Still Staring at Cass it ignored him. the sounds of the fire all around went silent as ringing filled Eren¡¯s ears. The heat was almost overwhelming, Eren felt light headed as his vision began to swim and stumbling forward he could only watch as the Slaught bit down on Cass¡¯ arm. lifting him up and and shaking him violently.


    stunned Eren became motionless as he watched Cass¡¯ body disconnect from his arm and go flying through the air, Ultimatley falling down into the wreckage of a collapsed house. Parks flew as Cass had disturbed the dying fire. bring it new life as it slowly came back to life. the Slaught turned to Eren grabbing the arm from his mouth and then tossing it at Eren''s feet. Eren stood there, no tears came, no shock, no suprise. Eren looked from the arm back to the Slaught numb.


    ¡°Wh- why is this happening?¡± Eren whispered. ¡°Jon, Scarlet, mom, dad¡± Eren¡¯s head hung low as he dropped the sword, kneeled, and grabbed the arm. ¡°and now Cass, There¡¯s nothing left¡± heavy steps sounded as the Slaught walked towards him. Looking up, Eren could see the joy in its eyes as it looked to him on the ground. Eren let his arms fall to his side watching the arm as it rolled back to the ground ¡°At least make it qui¡ª¡±


    ¡°Avenge them.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Eren looked to his side as a blue light lit up the smoke. Beside him the horned wolf stood.


    ¡°Accept me, and avenge them.¡± Eren brought up his hand and put it on the wolf¡¯s side ¡°you will be an avenger for all the devastation that has been wrought by his hands.¡± Eren felt a cool rush as the wolf''s form dissipated, leaving a blue smoke that went up his arm and then disappeared. He could feel his left arm again. looking back at the Slaught he saw its face distort, and the joyous look it had turned to fear.


    looking at his hands Eren understood why. He watched as his nails grew into claws, he felt his ears grow larger and where all he heard was the flames he heard the wind blowing above and even the beating of the Slaught¡¯s heart, where he just saw smoke he could see the shapes of the houses and the flames. and he couldn''t just see the flames he could feel them, all around, the energy they gave off. and reaching out he willed it to him. Eren felt the wolf''s essence wrapped around him reaching out and guiding the flame, to where Eren wanted it.  Eren grabbed his sword and looked back to the Slaught who who stared, now frozen in fear. looking down Eren willed the heat to his blade. watching as it turned from grey to black to a bright red. Taking a step forward he swung his blade, and watched its face distort in pain as its arm fell to the ground.


    ¡°AAAAHHHH¡± Eren screamed as he went to swing again. The Slaught jumped back and started to run. Reaching out Eren felt the moisture of the Slaught sweat, and with a simple thought he watched as the Slaught leg instantly froze to the ground.  The Slaught struggled trying in vain to free its leg. A loud and  solid snap sounded as the Slaught fell to the ground a shrill cry sounding as it hit the ground. its leg stood still frozen and alone like a monument. The Slaught howled again and started to crawl. Eren walked towards it. his Eyes lit up by the flames. Calling on the wind he felt blowing above he brought it down, clearing the street of smoke. Eren¡¯s eyes glowing blue as he made his way towards the crawling creature.


    looking down at it a calmness emanated and the world moved slower than usual. Eren no longer felt rage but rather joy at this moment, and smiled as he brought his foot down on its stump of a leg. Eren listened as it howled in pain; pushing down harder as it tried to free itself. In a swift motion Eren brought his sword down through its other knee pinning it to the ground. Smoke rose from the blade as it burned the fur and flesh. Eren brought his opened hand up feeling the flame around him and the earth underneath him. dirt and rocks started to float upwards as the fires from the houses died as the heat and flame rushed to Eren. The rocks turned red and started to pop until a bubble of magma floated near Eren''s hand.


    Eren watched the bubble and with effort formed it into a jagged knife. the black knife reflecting the moon''s light as he raised it into the air, and before it could cool Eren grabbed it, the skin on his hands instantly bubbled with blisters as he brought it down throught the Slaughts arm and pinning it to the ground. Eren heard what he could only describe as a wimper as it looked up to Eren fear and pain in it''s eyes. Without missing a beat Eren lifted his hand again bringing the moisture from around him and freezing it into another blade. looking down at the creature he brought the blade down on Eren willed the cold to spread through the arm watching as ice started to erupt out of its arm.


    Eren felt the Slaught go limp. short ragged breaths. slowly starting to fade. Eren stood back up and put his boot on the Slaughts head, applying more and more pressure until he heard a crack and watched as its eye exploded from its socket. And finally its head gave way, his foot crashed through the skull as a small explosion of blood, bone, and brain matter went flying. Eren fell to his knnes resting on the Slaught''s chest. and pulling the obsidian blade for the arm started to stab the Slaught. His vision went from red to black  as he stabbed it one last time and let out a scream into the night.


    Eren felt the claws that grew from his fingers retract, and felt his ears go back to normal. looking back down tears once again flowed and his vision blurred.ground looked around seeing the flame, the smoke, the blood, and ruin. slowly standing back up Eren walked to the the wreckage of the house Cass was thrown into and kneeled seeing only the burnt remains of Cass staring at him from the fire