《ReTaken- Reliving a new life》


 Chapter 1

    "Hey bro, wake up."


    My eyes fluttered open to the sight of my best friend staring at me with a troublesome smirk.


    "Five more minutes," I mumbled.


    Bobby, being the asshole he was, tossed a cup of ice-cold water in my face. I shot up, gasping from the shock.


    "No time," he said, laughing. "The girls are here."


    I wiped my face and turned to the right, suddenly realizing where we were¡ªoutside my girlfriend¡¯s parents¡¯ house.


    Then it hit me. The plan.


    We were finally doing it. Crossing the border, leaving everything behind, starting over somewhere new. No more rules. No more parents breathing down our necks. No more being called screw-ups.


    "Daniel, look! They¡¯re coming," Bobby whispered.


    Up on the second-floor window, the Rose sisters were climbing down. Emily, Bobby¡¯s girlfriend, moved first, quick and confident. Stacy, my girl, followed right behind her. Their backpacks were slung over their shoulders, and in Emily¡¯s hand, she held a bottle of wine.


    They landed with soft thuds on the grass, then took off running toward us, grinning like they had just pulled off the greatest heist.


    Bobby tossed me a beer can, still grinning. "Told you they¡¯d come through. Now, let¡¯s hit the road before someone notices they¡¯re gone."


    I caught the can and wiped the last of the cold water from my face. "Yeah, let¡¯s go."


    We all piled into Bobby¡¯s old, beat-up car.


    Stacy slid into the backseat with me, leaning in close. "We¡¯re gonna party so hard once we get some privacy," she whispered, her breath warm against my ear.


    Emily sat up front, sharing her drink with Bobby as he turned up the radio. A loud rock song blasted through the speakers, making my head throb.


    "Onward to adventure!" Bobby cheered as he hit the gas, speeding off into the night.


    I cracked open my beer and took a sip before asking, "How much gas do we have?"


    Bobby snorted. "Enough to get us past the city. Then we¡¯ll fill up. Relax, man¡ªwe¡¯re finally doing this!"


    I wanted to relax. I really did.


    But something felt¡­ off.


    Maybe it was the way Bobby was gripping the wheel too tightly. Or how he kept swerving slightly, like he was fighting to keep the car straight.


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    "Bobby," I said slowly, "you good?"


    "Never better," he slurred.


    My stomach dropped. "Bobby, tell me you¡¯re not¡ª"


    Before I could finish, the car jerked violently.


    The world spun.


    Tires screeched.


    Emily and Stacy screamed.


    Metal crunched.


    Glass shattered.


    Pain exploded in my skull as my head slammed into the window. My vision blurred, blood warm against my forehead.


    Everything faded.


    Then¡ª


    Nothing.


    ---


    When I opened my eyes, I was surrounded by darkness. A deep, endless void.


    It finally happened¡­ I died.


    Figures. Bobby was wasted. That idiot. It¡¯d be a damn miracle if any of them survived the crash.


    Damn it. My parents are gonna find out. If this gets reported, they¡¯ll see everything.


    Not like they¡¯ll care.


    What were my last words again?


    Oh, right. "You should have swallowed when you had the chance."


    Fantastic. Real poetic.


    Come to think of it¡­ when did my parents stop talking to me?


    Was it after they told me to stop hanging out with Bobby? Or when they caught Stacy warming me up a little in their bed?


    No¡­ it was probably when I didn¡¯t show up to Grandma¡¯s funeral.


    Not my fault, honestly. I just got tired of hearing the same crap from everyone.


    "Why do you have tattoos on your body?"


    "You know you have too many piercings."


    "When did you get such an attitude?"


    "What happened to your black hair? Now you look like a delinquent with that blonde dye job."


    It never ended. No matter what I did, they always had something to say.


    "Do you regret your choices?"


    A voice.


    Soft. Familiar.


    I looked around, but there was nothing. No one. Until¡ª


    A boy stepped forward.


    A younger version of me.


    Four years younger, to be exact.


    I stared at him, then sighed. "Let me guess. My afterlife is gonna be spent with you lecturing me about all my mistakes?"


    The darkness around us shifted.


    Suddenly, I wasn¡¯t in the void anymore.


    I was in my old bedroom. Four years ago.


    The same action figures scattered on the floor. My textbooks. My VR set.


    My younger self sat on the chair by the bed, watching me with golden eyes.


    "Big me," he said. "Do you like your choices?"


    I looked away. "Maybe I did. Maybe I didn¡¯t."


    He chuckled. "If you could have a new life¡­ would you take it?"


    That made me pause.


    A new life?


    Hell yeah.


    Maybe I¡¯d get better parents this time. Maybe Bobby and the others would be there too, living it up.


    I turned back to him. "Honestly? I¡¯d take that offer in a heartbeat. Even if it meant selling my soul to the devil himself. I¡¯m tired of living a crappy life."


    His golden eyes gleamed.


    He patted the bed beside him.


    I hesitated. "Do I have to lie down?"


    He nodded. "Just close your eyes and rest. If you ever need me, reach out."


    That sounded weird, but whatever. What did I have to lose?


    I lay down.


    The bed felt¡­ warm. Soft. Like I was being held by a thousand feathers.


    Relaxing.


    Peaceful.


    "Good luck over there, Nero," my younger self murmured.


    Everything faded to black.


    ---


    Voices.


    I could hear voices.


    Slowly, the words became clearer.


    "Nero, my baby boy."


    A woman¡¯s voice. Soft. Loving.


    My eyes blinked open.


    The first thing I saw was a beautiful woman with white hair and striking blue eyes.


    And her chest was really close to my face.


    Damn. She had a good pair on her.


    "Sometimes, I wish your father wasn¡¯t working the kind of job he does," she sighed, stroking my tiny hand. "But somebody has to keep us fed and healthy."


    Wait. Tiny hand?


    I looked down.


    My arm was small. Chubby.


    A baby¡¯s arm.


    The woman let me wrap my fingers around hers. She smiled. "Is it normal for you not to cry? Or maybe you¡¯re just different from the rest, Nero. Either way, you¡¯re my special baby boy."


    Nero.


    My younger self wasn¡¯t joking.


    I¡¯ve been reincarnated.


    I¡¯m in a new world.

 Chapter 2

    The world feels so much bigger now.


    Everything from the tables, chairs, even the door looms over me like towering structures. I feel so good damn small.


    It¡¯s frustrating.


    I¡¯ve spent the past few months adjusting. Moving is hard. Speaking is impossible.


    Thankfully my mother Nicole was here moving me around.


    She¡¯s warm, patient, always smiling at me with a kindness. The odd thing was that she was almost like my mother in the old world.


    Just more energetic.


    Honestly, I don¡¯t deserve this woman.


    Not after the person I was before.


    I expected something worst but this was a paradise.


    And then, today, everything changes.


    The door swings open, and a deep, commanding voice fills the house, ¡°Nicole, I¡¯m home.¡±


    I turn my head toward the sound.


    A man stood in the doorway, tall and built like an athlete.


    We had the same dark hair and purple eyes...could he be...my new dad.


    He eyes were scanning the room before softening when they land on my mother.


    "Henry!" My mother¡¯s voice is bright, relieved.


    She rushes to him, resting her head on his armored chest. He chuckles before pulling her close.


    So this is my father.


    I¡¯ve only heard about him from mom and Violet.


    The second best knight, the fearless swordsman. He was a man devoted to his duty. And now, he¡¯s standing here, his gaze finally settling on me.


    "So, this is my son." he says shifting his gaze on me.


    There¡¯s something intimidating about him...he is the completed opposite of my dad back home.


    I meet his gaze.


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    He then took of my mother''s arm, studying me with a mix of curiosity and something else I can¡¯t quite piece together.


    "He¡¯s got my eyes," he says to my mother. Someone quite proud of that.


    She laughs, "He basically has more of you then me."


    "You¡¯ll grow strong, son. I don''t wait to see your potential." he murmurs. "I can already tell."


    Maybe it because he so intimidating that I kinda feel rather relieved that he is somewhat kind.


    (Later that day)


    I now realise the worst part of being a baby with the memories of your previous life.


    It''s not being unable to move or do anything. It the fact that I have to endure my mother loud moans.


    Can''t blame the girl, given that dad came back but God damnit. Not even Arthur can pull my dad out.


    Just need to be patient, then I might get my own room. Till then, just think of anything other.


    ---


    By the time I turn two, my body has grown stronger. I can walk now, though I still stumble.


    Words come slowly, but they¡¯re coming. And today, my mother was taking me somewhere new.


    We live in a cottage quite far from the village. It was like a ten minute walk but still.


    "Come on, Nero," she says, holding my hand as we walk through a quiet village road. "We¡¯re going to visit my best friend, Violet."


    I don¡¯t know much about Violet, only that she and my mother have been close since they were young.


    She has a son around my age.


    When we arrive, the house is warm and welcoming.


    A woman with wavy chestnut hair and bright green eyes greets us with an excited smile, "Nicole! It¡¯s been too long."


    She hugs my mother tightly before turning to me. "And this must be Nero!"


    I cling to my mother¡¯s leg, unsure of how to react.


    Meeting new people has never been my strong suit even in my past life.


    But before I can overthink it, a small figure appears from behind Violet.


    A boy with messy dark hair and sharp green eyes. He looks at me, tilting his head.


    "This is Zero," Violet says, patting the boy¡¯s head. "He¡¯s your age."


    Zero doesn¡¯t say anything. He just stares at me. I stare back.


    The silence stretches.


    Then out of nowhere, Zero begun to cry.


    I blink, completely confused naturally.


    Violet sighs, "Zero, no need to cry all the time." Before picking him up.


    I glance at my mother, who only chuckles, "Aww he is a shy one. Nero looks like you have someone to look after when you grow up." she says.


    Violet nods in agreement, "That how their fathers started. Maybe they¡¯ll follow in their footsteps. Only difference is that my little Zero will win the war just like his father."


    I noticed mom fake smile and eye twitch, "Funny, I believe you implying that Nero is going to second place. The only reason Ethan is the number one knight is because Henry chose to defend a defenceless village over his kingdom."


    Oh no...my PTSD is coming back to me.


    "Making excuses are we, Ethan is not only the better knight but the best mage in the country. Isn''t that an achievement worth having." Violet replied with a proud smirk.


    "I forgot you like twig looking guys huh. When you get Henry who can slay a dragon with nothing but a sword and his will. Tell me, how many spell does Ethan use just so he can carry you without breaking his back. Because Henry only need what God gifted him." Mom clapped back against Violet.


    She looks mad as hell, "Oh you funny girl. Must I reminded you that twig can fly over to visit in a matter of hours while yours takes months just say hello. I get appreciate my short prince whenever I feel like it but you...must be tough." Violet had that smirk of victory.


    Mom wasn''t happy behind that smile.


    Remind me of Stacy and Emily arguing who had the better boyfriend.


    I looked at Zero in the eyes to give a salute because knowing how this goes.


    We are going to be here for quite a while.

 Chapter 3

    (Four years later)


    The sun was warm this afternoon, filtering through the thick leaves of the old oak tree.


    I sit beside my father, leaning against the rough bark.


    He¡¯s quiet, his arms resting on his knees, staring at the fields in front of us.


    I glance up at him.


    He looks tired.


    The kind of tired that doesn¡¯t just come from long days. He was given a month off for some reason but I not complaining.


    Especially mom.


    "You hiding out here too, Henry?" A familiar voice called out.


    I turn my head and see Ethan approaching us. Zero was behind him as he shyly hide behind.


    "Figures you¡¯d run off too," my father mutters, though there¡¯s amusement in his tone.


    Ethan laughs as he drops down onto the grass beside us, "Our wives are at it again."


    My father sighs, "What is it this time?" He said as grab a cigar from his jacket pocket puts it in his mouth.


    Ethan flicks his finger and the cigar was lit, "Who makes the best stew. Tonight we are going to sit through an hour of complaints only for them to forget what happened the next morning."


    I couldn''t believe to hear that my mother and Violet were arguing about that?


    Scary thing is...that happens a lot. Make you wonder how the hell can those two tolerate each other.


    Zero flops down onto the grass beside me, "I had to escape before my ears fell off."


    I chuckled knowing that I endure this longer than you buddy.


    I had to admit that I enjoying my company with Zero. Sure he is a literal child but he knows how to have fun at least. He gets scared often so the one who plays the role of big brother.


    I will try not to let my nasty side influence him too much.


    For a while, the four of us sit there, letting the breeze pass through.


    Then, out of nowhere, Zero jumps up and shoves my shoulder. "Tag. You¡¯re it!" Seems like he getting tired of sitting around.


    I''m not complaining either way.


    I push myself up and lunge at him, but damn he''s fast.


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    We run circles around our fathers, our small legs carrying us as fast as we can go.


    Second away I was from tagging him, "Alright you two. Come sit down." my father¡¯s voice stop me literally inches away.


    Something in his tone was off.


    Zero noticed that too.


    Ethan stretches his legs out, glancing at my father, "Might as well tell them now, huh?"


    My father exhales, "Yeah. They should know."


    I sit back down catching my breath, but my heart beats a little faster. The mood just shifted out of nowhere...I didn''t do something bad. I was on best God danm behaviour.


    "Listen, you two...you know we¡¯re knights. And you know we¡¯re away a lot. We don''t fight for one but multiple. But mainly for Redgate." Father mentioned.


    I nod.


    I¡¯ve never questioned it. I figured knights had responsibilities, but I never asked what they were.


    Ethan leans forward, "The kingdoms faces a threat that my lead to our destruction if not dealt with. The Veilguard Church. A cult that worship the horrors that behind the veils. They want to open the Veilguard Portal and release the monster inside."


    Zero tilts his head, "Why¡¯s that bad?"


    My father¡¯s jaw tightens, "Because if they succeed, the Veils will invade. They are monstrous spirits that only have three things in mind. Feed, reproduce and kill."


    A chill runs down my spine. Now I see why father is busy all the time. Must be tough.


    Zero shy asked, "So why don¡¯t you just stop them?"


    Ethan gives a dry chuckle, "We try. But the Church is clever, and the kingdoms politics don¡¯t make it easy. You just don''t know if the person you trust in your life turns out to be apart of the Veilguard church. The king''s and queen also, it scares me knowing that only some are making it easier for us to find the members in their kingdom."


    I glance at my father and I can understand frustration in his eyes. I would be too if I was dealing with corruption.


    Zero frowns, "You guys are known as the strongest knights. Why don¡¯t you just ignore the politics?"


    Oh my naive little child. You can be a world famous rapper, pastor or even senator, you are not immune to the law.


    Considering that our mom''s are housewives. We are in no position to break the law.


    My father shakes his head, "Because being a knight isn¡¯t just about strength. It¡¯s about responsibility. We fight when we can, but we can¡¯t be reckless."


    I looked at the sky and said, "That sounds stupid."


    Ethan barks out a laugh, "That¡¯s what I said when I was your age."


    He glances at my father, "What do you think? Send them to Azurefang Academy?"


    My father nods, "Their teacher won''t be happy that our descendant came back to cause hell. Remember miss Jewels, tell this day I feel like we caused that woman to grow grey hair."


    Zero¡¯s eyes light up, "So we¡¯re going to school?"


    Ethan smirks, "More like a fighter school. Henry learnt the sword while I perfective my magic. You two will learn what best suits you guys."


    I glance at Zero. He grins. I grin back.


    Our fathers let us go after that, telling us to play while they discuss things in private. But my mind is stuck on the Veils.


    Zero and I wander toward the riverbank. The water is clear, reflecting the blue sky. I sit on a rock, dipping my hand into the cool stream.


    Zero plops down beside me, "You think we¡¯ll have to fight those Veils one day?"


    I stare at the water, imagining dark Lovecraft monster slithering out of it, "Maybe."


    Zero grins, "I¡¯d use magic to blast them away."


    I scoff, "Magic¡¯s cool and all, but I¡¯d rather punch them in the face."


    Zero laughs, "You would."


    I smirk, "What? You want me not to make myself a badass by just using my fist."


    Zero kicks a pebble into the river, "Then let¡¯s make a promise."


    I glance at him, "A promise?"


    He nods, holding out his hand, "We follow our dads path. We train, we become knights, and we compete to see who¡¯s stronger."


    I look at his hand, then back at him.


    A part of me hesitates. Was it because I thought that maybe I will do something in this life that was normal.


    Grow up. Go to school. Get a good job. Get married. And start a family.


    But maybe that''s why I was sent here in the first place. To stop the Veilguard from opening.


    I doubt I''m the hero in this tale but at the very least...I can help by making things easier for the next guy.


    Besides, I really want to punch a Cthulhu like monster in face.


    I grab his hand, gripping it tight.


    "Deal."

 Chapter 4

    Now that was a good nap. One of the best ones I have ever had.


    Maybe after yesterday talk about me and Zero joining a school together.


    Mom was more strict with her homeschooling. Despite me knowing maths well, I must say that history and language is were I struggle the most.


    She teaches until you are so exhausted that a four nap become the best thing that has ever happened to you.


    After pushing myself off the bed and doing a couple of stretches.


    Today feels like a good day to head out. Maybe I should visit Zero and see what kind of trouble we can get into.


    Just as I reach for my door, I hear voices.


    "¡­I know it¡¯s sudden, but we don¡¯t have a choice." my father¡¯s deep voice says.


    My mother sighs. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ moving to another country? Henry, this is a big change. Nero has friends here. What about Zero?¡±


    I freeze, my hand hovering over the door handle.


    ¡°We¡¯ve already discussed it. I¡¯ve been assigned to a new village. The kingdom needs knights stationed there to safeguard the border. It¡¯s safer than here.¡± father mentioned.


    A new country? A new village?


    I slowly step back from the door, my chest tightening. I don¡¯t want to move. This is my home. Zero is here. My whole life...this second chance...is here.


    Without another sound, I throw myself onto the bed, staring at the ceiling.


    What about Zero?


    The idea of leaving him behind doesn¡¯t sit right with me. He¡¯s the only person who truly understands me. He¡¯s the only one who makes me feel like this life is different from the last.


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    I sigh, rubbing my face. There¡¯s nothing I can do about it. If my father is being reassigned, then I have no choice but to follow.


    Just as I start to overthink everything, a faint tapping noise comes from my window.


    I sit up and glance over.


    A small, sleek-feathered messenger bird is perched on the sill, a tiny rolled-up letter tied to its leg.


    I quickly open the window, and the bird hops inside, tilting its head at me expectantly. I untie the letter and unroll it.


    Nero,


    I have big news! We¡¯re moving. My dad is being reassigned. I don¡¯t know where yet, but I¡¯ll find out soon. I hope we¡¯re not too far from each other. Meet me at our usual spot.


    ~Zero


    I blink. Then I read it again.


    He¡¯s moving too?


    I don¡¯t waste another second. I toss on my boots, grab the closest jacket, and rush out the door.


    ---


    By the time I reach our usual meeting spot. A small clearing near the village square I see Zero.


    But something¡¯s wrong.


    He¡¯s backed up against a wall, his fists clenched, facing off against three older boys.


    Roddy and his gang.


    One of them shoves him roughly, ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going, huh? Leaving town so soon?¡±


    Zero grits his teeth, ¡°None of your business.¡±


    Roddy laughs, ¡°How about you give us some your dad''s gold and we will leave you be.¡±


    Zero has always been a weak against the bullies in town.


    Have to admit, one thing I love about my past me.


    ¡°HEY.¡± Is that I was fighting for more than four years.


    The boys turn.


    I crack my knuckles, ¡°YOU F***ER!!!¡± I dash towards them.


    One of them scoffs, ¡°Oh look, the knight¡¯s brat is here.¡±


    I don¡¯t give them time to say anything else.


    I close the distance between us in a heartbeat and drive my fist into the Roddy gut.


    He gasps, stumbling back.


    The second one tries to swing at me, but I duck and sweep his legs out from under him.


    The third takes a step back, eyes wide.


    Zero doesn¡¯t waste the opportunity. He lunges forward, landing a solid punch to the last guy¡¯s jaw.


    The bullies scramble to their feet and take off without looking back.


    Zero dusts himself off, ¡°Thanks, it sucks you are always staving me.¡±


    I smirk, ¡°Get better than you will start saving me.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah,¡± he mutters, rubbing his arm.


    ¡°So¡­ you got my letter?¡± he asked, little guy looks sad now.


    I nod, shoving my hands into my pockets, ¡°Yeah. I heard my parents talking about moving too.¡±


    Zero kicks a rock, ¡°Guess that means things are changing.¡±


    Yeah... kinda hope that we can stay longer. But six years was a ride.


    ¡°We¡¯ll see each other again. We¡¯re both going to be knights. Our dads are sending us to the same school anyway.¡± I said


    Zero glances at me, then nods, ¡°Yeah. And besides, I still have to prove I¡¯m stronger than you.¡±


    I smirk, ¡°Keep dreaming.¡±


    He laughs, then holds out his fist.


    I bump mine against his without hesitation.


    No matter what happens, we¡¯ll keep moving forward.


    And one day, we¡¯ll stand side by side as knights.

 Chapter 5

    Somebody was humming by ear again. And the only person I know capable of doing such a thing.


    Mother.


    Today is my birthday after all, this year she going for the blindfolded surprise party plan. Would have worked if I didn''t feel you touching me last night.


    Before I could sit up, a familiar hand touches my shoulder, ¡°No peeking, birthday boy,¡± my mother whispers with a soft chuckle.


    I let out a small sigh but smile anyway, ¡°Alright, alright.¡±


    Last year was a dance performance with dad singing completely embarrassed. I wonder how they will surpass this.


    She helps me out of bed, guiding me carefully out of the room well singing a birthday song she mostly prepared in advance.


    Let me guess, dad is performed a sitcom as mom sing. Hey I''m down for it-


    ¡°Happy birthday to you~¡±


    More voices join in, cheerful and slightly out of sync.


    ¡°Happy birthday to you~¡±


    I know those voices. No way...


    ¡°Happy birthday, dear Nero~¡±


    When the blindfold was untied, and light flooded my eyes. I saw them all.


    Standing in the living room was my father, arms crossed with a rare smile on his face.


    Ethan, his usual carefree grin in place.


    Violet, wiping flour off her hands.


    And Zero, who¡¯s practically bouncing with excitement.


    ¡°Happy birthday to you!¡± They all finish together.


    Well, looks like mom did it yet again with this one. What am I kidding, she always loves planning my birthday...the same way my past mom did.


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    They both always wanted to see me and be treated like a king on my birthday. Only difference is that, I stopped caring for one because I never took the time to appreciate what she does to me.


    I smile, ¡°Thanks, everyone.¡±


    Zero shyly plays with his bangs, ¡°You¡¯re seven now! That means you¡¯re officially an old man.¡±


    Oh shy boy has jokes huh, ¡°Look who¡¯s talking, grandpa. Must I remind you that you will be seven in two months time." I said with a cocky smirk.


    The room fills with laughter, and then the gifts come out.


    ---


    Henry steps forward first, handing me a box wrapped in simple dark cloth, ¡°This is from me, I had it customly made for this occasion.¡±


    I unwrap it carefully and pull out two gauntlet. The metal is sturdy but light, the craftsmanship perfect.


    As I slip them onto my right hand, they fit like a glove.


    ¡°I asked an enchantress make it so that it will adjust as you grow up. Given that you constantly fight with kids here, why not use this against bandit instead.¡± he said with a cheerful smile.


    After a short laughed, I started shadow boxing to get a feel of it, ¡°This is¡­ amazing. Thank you.¡±


    Violet and Zenith step up next, handing me a neatly folded set of clothes.


    ¡°We figured you¡¯d need something new for training soon,¡± Violet says with a wink, ¡°Don¡¯t go ruining them too fast.¡±


    Ethan hands me a small, leather-bound book, ¡°A summoning book. Basic-level magic, but with enough practice, you might find yourself a nice little companion.¡±


    I turn the pages carefully, curiosity sparking in my mind. Summoning magic¡­? That could be useful.


    And then, Zero steps up, grinning as he holds out a tiny golden chain. A half-piece of a necklace.


    I frown slightly as I take it, ¡°Wait¡­ this is only half.¡±


    Zero lifts his shirt collar, revealing the other half of the matching necklace.


    ¡°Now we both have one. That way, even if we¡¯re far apart, we¡¯re still kinda stuck together.¡± he say with a proud smile.


    I stare at the small golden piece in my hand. Of all the gifts, this one¡­ it means the most.


    Kinda my first friend to gift me something useful.


    I nod and slip it over my neck, ¡°Yeah. We are.¡±


    ---


    As the others move toward the kitchen to help with the feast, my father nudges my shoulder, ¡°Come outside with me.¡±


    I follow him out, stepping into the cool afternoon air.


    For a moment, we stand in silence. Then, Henry sighs, ¡°We leave next week.¡±


    I knew it was coming, but hearing it out loud makes my stomach twist.


    ¡°I know it won¡¯t be easy. Change never is. But this is an opportunity.¡± he said


    I grip the chain around my neck, ¡°¡­Will we see them again?¡±


    My father nods, ¡°Ethan and I are making sure of it. Our paths will cross again. After all, we are strongest knights.¡±


    I exhale, some of the tension leaving my shoulders, ¡°Good.¡±


    Henry glances down at me, ¡°You¡¯re growing up fast, Nero. You¡¯ll have to start making choices about the kind of person you want to be.¡±


    I look at my new gauntlets, then at the golden necklace.


    ¡°I already know,¡± I say.


    Henry smirks. ¡°Then let¡¯s go celebrate.¡±


    We head back inside, where laughter, the scent of good food, and the warmth of my families await.

 Chapter 6

    In the dim glow of candlelight, four figures sat around a circular stone table.


    Each wearing animal heads depicting different animals to conceal their identity.


    A bulky muscular figure wearing a simple red robes wear a dear head.


    A slim feminine figure wearing nothing but a thin loin cloth and fox head.


    A lean muscular figure wearing a knight armour while wearing a wolf head.


    And finally, a fat feminine figure wearing simple simply overall and wore a hippocampus elephant head.


    The chamber was deep underground, beneath the grand halls of the Veilguard Church, where no prying eyes could reach them.


    Four golden idol statue stood around them. Representing the four guardian of the veil.


    The three serpent headed veil hound - E.N.D


    A grotesque flesh veil giant - Father


    A long tentacle monster - Mother


    A humanoid hybrid of mother and father - Dante


    At the center of the table, a massive iron plate lay embedded in the stone engraved with ancient symbols that pulsed faintly, reacting to the presence of those gathered.


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    The deer lifted his hands and said, "The time is nearly upon us. The festival of happiness. A celebration that was told from our ancestors but was foiled by the dominating one."


    The three other bowed their heads in unison. Each of them bore a necklace with a dark, twisted emblem: The Idol of Sacrifice. A symbol of their sacred duty.


    "The seal weakens beneath tonight eclipse. The bindings placed upon it by the ancients will reach their most fragile state. A moment we have awaited for generations. The veils shall be free." Said the elephant.


    The fox tapped her fingers against the table, "Then we need only ensure that our preparations are complete. The sacrifice must be made without failure."


    The wolf nodded, "We have already chosen the offerings. Their souls will shatter the final remnants of the seal. But they still need more."


    The deer raised his cup of red wine, "The Veils stir, whispering from beyond. They sense it too. They hunger for the heads of the strongest. Henry Rosewick and Ethan Star."


    The fox jumped up from her sit, "Then there is only one task left: We must make our way to the Floating Islands of Veyra. It is there that the seal was forged, and it is there that it shall be undone. Once those two come and stop our cause, we attack with the blessings bestowed upon us."


    The group begun clapping and cheering for the idea.


    The Floating Islands were ancient and unreachable to most were said to be the last barrier between this world and the veil. No ordinary men could step foot there. But they were not ordinary people.


    The wolf stands unsheathed his greatsword from his back, "Then let us make haste. When the eclipse arrives¡­ the Veils shall walk among us once more. Then we all shall celebrate the festival of happiness."


    One by one, they pressed their hands against the iron plate at the center of the table. The engraved symbols flared brightly, and the air around them trembled.


    Now an unanswered question arose in my mind, how are you going to deny your fate Nero? I hope to see how your develop.

 Chapter 7

    I finished packing everything for the day. Clothes, toys, and any other important belongings I had collected over the years.


    It felt strange seeing my room so empty, but it would save time when we left. No last-minute rushing. No hassle.


    As I closed my bag, I heard footsteps behind me.


    "Is everything alright?" Mother stood in the doorway, her gaze flicking to my packed belongings.


    I shrugged, "Yeah. Just figured I''d get it over with."


    She walked in and rested her arms over my shoulders, "Do you want to stay?"


    I hesitated, then forced a grin, "If it''s for Dad¡¯s work, then I shouldn¡¯t complain, right? I had fun here, made some trouble with the other kids... but this is just the next chapter of my life."


    Mom smiled and ruffled my hair, "As long as we¡¯re together as a family, everything will be fine."


    And she was right.


    A knock at the front door broke the sweet family moment.


    Mother perked up, excitement in her steps as she hurried to answer. I stayed hidden in the hallway, watching curiously from the corner.


    She opened the door to reveal a young girl, draped in a brown cloak.


    A villager¡¯s kid, maybe? People knew we were moving soon, so it wasn¡¯t too surprising. But something about her felt... different.


    Mother gave her usual warm smile, "Hello dear. Are you a friend of Nero¡¯s?" She glanced in my direction, throwing me a playful thumbs-up.


    The girl shook her head, "Is Henry Rosewick here?" Her voice was blunt, direct.


    Mother¡¯s smile faltered, "No, he won¡¯t be back until next week to help us move. If you¡¯d like, I can pass along a message?"


    The girl tightened her grip on the edges of her cloak, her fingers trembling slightly.


    Mother kneeled and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, "It¡¯s okay. Whatever my husband can do to help you, I promise he will."


    The girl wiped her eyes, then took a deep breath.


    "Henry is my father¡­ I came to meet him."


    Silence.


    The warmth drained from Mother¡¯s face. Her hands froze mid-motion.


    "Now, it''s not funny to make-"


    Before she could finish, the girl reached into her cloak and pulled out a golden necklace. A small, worn picture frame dangled from the chain.


    Inside it, a younger Henry stood beside a red-haired woman.


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    "My mother died three weeks ago from a heart virus. Before she passed, she told me my father was Henry Rosewick. One of the strongest knights in the world. And that I should go live with him." A week tearful smile appeared on her face.


    She clenched her fists, "But now¡­ I see he already has a family of his own. No wonder he never visited us."


    The necklace slipped from her fingers, landing against the wooden floor as she broke into sobs.


    Mother didn¡¯t move. Her eyes stayed locked on the necklace.


    I stared at the girl, at her black hair and purple eyes. At the birthmark on her neck...just like mine.


    Dad once told me that everyone in his family was born with a flower-shaped birthmark. The placement depended on which hand was dominant.


    Mine was on my right.


    Dad¡¯s was on his left.


    And hers¡­was on her right.


    There was no denying it now.


    This girl could be my half-sister.


    Mom most likely doesn¡¯t know what to do. How could she? Her husband travels for months at a time, barely spending time at home. And now¡­ this?


    I swallowed hard, my mind racing with questions.


    How many other women are you seeing behind Mom¡¯s back, Dad?


    And more importantly¡­ how the hell are you going to get yourself out of this mess?


    ---


    The tension hung thick in the air as I sat across from the girl.


    We couldn''t even look at each other.


    She had stopped crying, but her expression was still tight with frustration, her hands gripping the fabric of her cloak.


    I didn¡¯t know what to say, and judging by the way she kept sneaking glances at me, she didn¡¯t either.


    "So¡­ you''re Henry¡¯s son?" she finally asked, breaking the silence.


    "Yeah, the name is Nero. And yours?" I asked back.


    She scoffed looking at the countless picture frame, "Jade."


    I also most feel bad for her...if she keeps looking at the picture frame. She might have a meltdown.


    "You got to grow up with him. Hard believe he looks completely different from a picture taken eight years ago." She said looking at the picture of us at my seventh birthday.


    Wait she eight? Damn it, that means that deadbeat knocked someone up and ran to find the right milk.


    Dad and mom were married for twenty years...was he unhappy with her at that time???


    "It''s not like he¡¯s around much. He travels a lot given his status."


    "Looks like I might have other surprise siblings waiting across the land." She looks annoyed.


    Hope this is the only surprise family member I will meet.


    I leaned back, arms crossed, "What about your mom?"


    Jade flinched slightly, but she didn¡¯t look away, "She was bar waitress. She raised me alone and never once told me who my father was...until she was too sick to hide it anymore."


    I felt a pang of guilt, "Sorry that you came here only to get the worst possible news."


    Jade shrugged, "Not your fault."


    "What you going to do now? After you met him?" I asked.


    Silence settled between us again.


    I glanced toward Mother¡¯s room, where the faint sound of muffled sobs had gone quiet.


    She had shut herself inside the moment Jade stopped crying.


    I could only imagine what she was feeling.


    After what felt like forever, the door creaked open. Mother stepped out, her eyes red and puffy, but her posture composed.


    She walked over to Jade and kneeled down, gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind the girl¡¯s ear.


    "You can stay here. At least until Henry comes home. Then, we¡¯ll figure out where to go from there. Can''t let you sleep outside." Mom tried to look at her but just couldn''t bring herself to.


    Jade blinked in surprise, "...Are you sure?"


    Mother smiled, "Of course." But I can tell whether mom smile are genuine or not. And that was the fakest smile I have ever seen from her.


    Jade hesitated, then nodded, "...Thank you."


    ---


    (Later that day)


    I lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, my thoughts tangled with everything that had happened.


    Jade.


    My father.


    The look on Mother¡¯s face.


    All I know is that this will be one hell of argument from mom when she sees him.


    I sat up, glancing toward the window. The sky, once dark and calm, had shifted into a deep shade of purple.


    Eclipse is about to start.


    Then, as the eclipse began...


    A sudden pulse of energy surged through the air.


    A pillar of black and red light erupted in the distance, stretching high into the heavens.


    The ground trembled. The wind howled.


    And then something appeared flying across the sky.


    Creatures, soaring across the sky, their distorted forms twisting unnaturally as they descended upon the land.

 Chapter 8

    The sky darkened.


    Above, two celestial bodies within the Floating Islands of Veyra. The Veil Moon and the Mortal Moon were aligned perfectly, casting the world below in an eerie twilight.


    Shadows stretched unnaturally, and the air grew thick with something unseen, something ancient.


    It was the Hollow Eclipse.


    The very moment when the barrier between realms was at its weakest.


    And standing guard over that fragile seal were two of the strongest warriors the mortal realm had to offer.


    Henry Rosewick, The Unchained Hound.


    He sat lazily against a jagged rock, his stainless white steel armor still unblemished by battle. Resting across his lap was Unchained, an odachi crafted for a warrior without restraint. A weapon meant for nothing less than carnage.


    Across from him, seated in front of the seal, was Ethan Star, the Savior¡¯s Champion.


    Draped in flowing red robes, he radiated an aura of divine presence, his long white spellbook resting on his knees.


    The seal itself loomed before them.


    A massive, pulsating purple sphere, its surface swirling with arcane energy. Thick, vein-like tendrils extended from it, leading to seven enormous, beating hearts.


    They serve as the lifeblood of the seal.


    And then, a ripple in the air.


    ¡°Hey, Ethan.¡± Henry called out, flipping a page in his book without looking up.


    Ethan remained still, his posture undisturbed as he continued to meditate, ¡°Yes, number two?¡±


    Henry scowled and grabbed a nearby rock. With a casual flick of his wrist, he tossed it at Ethan¡¯s head.


    The rock shattered mid-air, reduced to dust before it even touched him.


    Ethan exhaled through his nose, amused, ¡°You¡¯re going to have to try harder than that.¡±


    Henry smirked, ¡°Yeah, yeah. But you did sense that, right?¡±


    Ethan slowly opened his eyes, the divine glow within them flickering, ¡°Of course. Stealth spells won¡¯t work on us.¡±


    His gaze flickered toward the shadows at the edge of the floating island, ¡°Especially if they¡¯re planning to leave witnesses.¡±


    A deep, guttural whisper echoed through the air.


    The temperature dropped.


    From the darkness of the stone ruins surrounding them, figures began to emerge.


    Hooded cloaked individuals, their hands grasping relics dripping with black ichor. The Veilguard Church had arrived.


    Leading them were the four mask believers¡ªThe wolf, The fox, The hippocampus and The deer.


    Each of them bore an Idol of Sacrifice around their necks, the twisted symbol pulsing with unnatural energy.


    The deer stepped forward, spreading his arms, ¡°The Hollow Eclipse is upon us, dear warriors.¡±


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    His voice was rich with confidence, laced with something almost¡­ amused, ¡°You know why we are here.¡± he continued.


    Henry let out a loud yawn, standing up and cracking his neck, ¡°Yeah, yeah. You want to break the seal, unleash the Veils, and let them have their party.¡±


    He rested Unchained on his shoulder, ¡°You idiots do this every year.¡±


    Ethan remained seated, flipping a page in his spellbook, ¡°And every year, you fail.¡±


    The fox chuckled, ¡°Do we? Tell me, Savior¡¯s Champion, do you not feel it?¡±


    Ethan¡¯s fingers stilled.


    The seal pulsed.


    The seven gigantic hearts beat faster, their veins swelling, darkening. Something beneath the seal moved.


    Henry narrowed his eyes.


    The hippocampus pulled her two cleaver, ¡°The eclipse weakens the chains more than you realize. And this year¡­¡±


    The deer reached into his robe, pulling out a dagger coated in glowing red inscriptions, ¡°We brought a key.¡±


    The fox raised her hands, chanting. The relics held by the Veilguard acolytes began to vibrate, their ichor-like essence rising into the air like smoke.


    Ethan¡¯s book slammed shut, ¡°Henry.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, we''re not letting them start.¡± Henry took a step forward, rolling his shoulders.


    The wolf clapped his hand, ¡°Oh, but we already have.¡±


    A single drop of blood fell from the dagger from the deer''s hand.


    The ground trembled.


    And the seal¡­ cracked.


    ---


    A crack spread across the surface of the seal, jagged and glowing with eerie purple light.


    The seven massive hearts pulsated wildly, their veins swelling as if something within them was struggling to break free.


    Ethan angry was evident by his expression, ¡°How the hell did they accelerated the decay. If we don¡¯t stop them now-¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, I get it.¡± Henry rolled his shoulders, gripping Unchained with both hands.


    His stance shifted, energy coiling around his blade like an unchained beast ready to pounce.


    The deer sneered, ¡°Too late.¡±


    He plunged the dagger into his own chest.


    Blood...dark, thick, unnatural.


    Poured from the wound, but instead of falling to the ground, it floated, twisting into tendrils of crimson mist.


    The air howled as if the world itself recoiled from the act.


    The other mask lifted their hands, chanting in perfect unison. The Idols of Sacrifice around their necks ignited, glowing a deep, malevolent purple.


    Henry¡¯s grip tightened, ¡°Ah, hell.¡±


    The sky turned black.


    The Hollow Eclipse was now fully formed.


    No sunlight, no starlight, just an oppressive darkness that made the air feel suffocating.


    Then, the voices came.


    Whispers slithered through the air, hundreds, thousands, speaking in a language that twisted the mind and sickened the soul.


    The Veils were watching.


    And they were hungry.


    Ethan raised his spellbook.


    Golden runes flared to life around him, forming intricate divine barriers, ¡°We can¡¯t let this ritual finish!¡±


    Henry let out a wild grin, his eyes glinting with excitement, ¡°Agreed.¡±


    He moved first.


    In an instant, he was a blur of white steel, Unchained flashing in the darkness like a streak of silver lightning.


    The ground beneath him cracked from the sheer force of his launch.


    The wolf barely had time to react before Henry was upon him.


    SLASH!


    The wolf jumped back just in time, but the tip of Unchained carved through his armour, cutting deep into his shoulder.


    The wolf staggered back, ¡°That damn sword-¡±


    Henry didn¡¯t give him time to breathe.


    He pivoted, twisting his entire body as he brought his odachi around in a wide arc.


    The force alone sent a shockwave through the air, shattering the ground beneath them.


    The wolf raised his hand, summoning a barrier of black energy-


    CRACK!


    The barrier shattered instantly.


    The wolf was sent flying back, crashing into the ruins with a sickening thud.


    The hippocampus snarled, ¡°Kill them now!¡±


    A dozen Veilguard cultists surged forward alongside her, weapons drawn.


    Ethan exhaled sharply, ¡°Fools.¡±


    With a single flick of his wrist, he opened his spellbook. The pages flipped on their own, and then-


    BOOM!


    A wave of radiant golden light erupted from the book, crashing into the incoming cultists like a tidal wave.


    Screams filled the air as divine energy burned through their dark robes, sending them sprawling.


    The hippocampus raised her cleaver dashing towards him-


    Ethan turned his gaze on her. His eyes glowed.


    ¡°Silence.¡±


    The words carried power, forced reality to obey.


    The hippocampus choked, her voice stolen from him, his spell fizzling into nothing. She clutched her throat, eyes wide with terror.


    Ethan didn¡¯t stop. He lifted his hand, forming a golden spear of light, ¡°You should have never come here.¡±


    He launched the spear but...


    A hand intercepted it.


    Not a human hand.


    A Veil¡¯s hand.


    The spear dissolved on impact. The air turned suffocating.


    Henry¡¯s grin vanished, ¡°Shit.¡±


    The seal cracked further.


    From within the sphere of purple energy, something was pressing against it from the inside. Long, jagged fingers, shifting and twisting, their shape wrong, unnatural.


    The whispers grew louder.


    Ethan paled, ¡°They¡¯re breaching through.¡±


    The deer coughed up blood, but he was laughing now, ¡°You¡¯re too late.¡±


    Henry¡¯s grip tightened around Unchained, ¡°Like hell we are.¡±


    The battle was far from over.


    And the seal was one step closer to breaking.

 Chapter 9

    The seal shattered.


    A shockwave of raw, otherworldly energy erupted from the fractured sphere, sending ripples across the Floating Islands of Veyra.


    The skies darkened as arcs of violet lightning slashed through the heavens.


    The ground beneath Henry¡¯s feet trembled, the very air twisting with a pressure that made his skin crawl


    Then came the sound...a distorted, layered whisper, as if countless voices spoke at once, overlapping in a chaotic, maddening chorus.


    The Veils had breached the barrier.


    From the shattered seal, the first creature emerged.


    It had no true form.


    Only a writhing mass of elongated limbs, shifting like liquid, twisting in and out of reality.


    Where its face should have been, there was only emptiness, a void that devoured light. Merely looking at it sent a wave of nausea rolling through Henry¡¯s gut.


    Then, it screeched- a sound so guttural, so alien, that the very air seemed to recoil from it.


    And then¡­


    Chaos.


    The Veilguard acolytes, who had moments ago been chanting in triumph, were the first to suffer.


    The creature''s tendrils lashed out, piercing through their chests with grotesque ease.


    Their bodies twisted unnaturally, like marionettes with broken strings.


    Blood splattered, yet instead of falling, it rose, drifting toward the crack in the sky.


    Henry didn¡¯t hesitate.


    He lunged forward, Unchained cleaving through the air.


    The blade, imbued with sheer force, met the creature¡¯s undulating body-


    And slid through like water.


    His eyes widened, ¡°What the hell-?¡±


    The Veil¡¯s body rippled, reforming instantly.


    It moved too fast and its shifting limbs lunging toward him. Henry barely dodged, and the mere wind pressure from its strike carved deep gashes into the stone beneath him.


    Ethan didn¡¯t flinch.


    He flipped open his spellbook, golden sigils forming around him as he chanted, ¡°Luminara Divinitas.¡±


    A pillar of divine light descended from above, engulfing the creature in searing radiance.


    It screeched, its form twisting violently...but it did not die.


    It simply shifted, flowing backward like liquid, reforming just outside the blast radius.


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    Ethan¡¯s expression darkened, ¡°This isn¡¯t good.¡±


    Nearby, the Deer, blood dripping from his mouth, let out a broken laugh. His body barely held together, but his eyes burned with wild, fanatical glee.


    ¡°Do you see now? You cannot fight what you do not understand. The Veils¡­ are beyond your world. They will save us.¡±


    Above, the sky fractured further.


    The Hollow Eclipse had reached its peak.


    Another figure emerged from the rift.


    This one taller than the first. A blue-skinned, six-armed humanoid, its elongated claws gleaming like obsidian. Its face was featureless except for a disturbingly wide mouth, and its long, greenish tentacle-hair slithered like living vines. It tilted its head at Henry and Ethan...observing their figure.


    Then, it raised one hand.


    The battlefield froze.


    A sudden, suffocating force pressed down upon reality itself.


    Then, he arrived.


    A black robe manifested from the void. A staff materialized in the air.


    Henry felt his muscles seize against his will. His breath caught in his throat. Even Ethan, bathed in divine aura, staggered, his golden sigils cracking under the sheer pressure.


    A voice echoed across the battlefield. Deep. Resonant. Absolute.


    ¡°Freedom.¡±


    A figure descended from the Rift.


    He stepped onto the battlefield not like an invader, but like a ruler...inspecting his domain.


    His presence alone was suffocating, an abyss that demanded submission.


    His cloak, woven from shadows and embroidered with dark purple sigils, barely stirred in the wind.


    His face¡ªa green, squid-like visage, tentacles resting against his chest. His long black dreadlocks cascaded down his back.


    And his eyes...piercing silver, glowing with an otherworldly light.


    But it was the symbol on his forehead that sent a chill down Henry¡¯s spine. A blackened sigil, pulsing with eldritch energy, a mark of something beyond mortal comprehension.


    Henry exhaled, teeth clenched.


    ¡°¡­Dante.¡±


    Ethan¡¯s fingers tightened around his spellbook, ¡°Damn it. Why is he here?¡±


    Dante, the Veilborne Monarch.


    Once, he had stood among humanity¡¯s greatest warriors. Once, he had fought alongside them. Then he had vanished beyond the Rift¡­


    And returned changed.


    Dante¡¯s gaze swept across the battlefield, impassive, unreadable. Then, with a single, languid motion, he lifted his hand¡ª


    Every Veil creature halted.


    The six-armed being immediately knelt before him.


    The Deer, moments ago basking in victory, now trembled in fear.


    ¡°L-Lord Dante¡­ please, share your happiness with us.¡±


    Dante didn¡¯t even spare him a glance. With a flick of his fingers¡ª


    The Deer collapsed inward.


    It wasn¡¯t an explosion. It wasn¡¯t a cut. It was as if reality itself rejected his existence, folding him like a discarded scrap of paper.


    No blood. No scream. Just... gone.


    A terrible silence followed.


    Henry¡¯s grip on Unchained tightened. Every instinct screamed at him to move¡ªto fight, to run, to do something.


    But he knew better.


    Dante wasn¡¯t just powerful.


    He was unknowable.


    Dante turned to them, a flicker of amusement in his silver eyes.


    ¡°Still clinging to this broken world, I see.¡±


    Ethan stepped forward, divine energy crackling around him, ¡°Why have you returned?¡±


    Dante smiled. Slow. Calculated.


    ¡°To bring happiness to the Veils.¡±


    Behind him, the Rift expanded.


    Beyond its gaping maw, more Veil creatures stirred. Watching. Waiting.


    Dante spread his arms.


    ¡°The Hollow Eclipse is not an end¡­ it is a beginning.¡±


    His voice carried across the battlefield, resonating like prophecy.


    ¡°This world has forgotten its true nature. Forgotten the truth beyond the veil.¡±


    His gaze darkened, and below his feet¡ªsomething began to rise.


    The Deer, the one he had just erased from existence¡ªreturned.


    Twisted. Wrong. A Veil-born monstrosity, its former body nothing more than jagged flesh. A mask had formed where its head should have been, distorting into a grotesque, hunched shape.


    The other cultists watched¡ªand they envied.


    Dante turned to them, voice soft yet brimming with authority.


    ¡°If you wish to join my conquest¡­ accept my gift.¡±


    The three remaining cultists knelt instantly, their heads bowed to the dirt.


    Then¡ªbloody spikes erupted from the ground, impaling them.


    Their bodies twisted, morphed, transformed.


    The wolf became a black knight, his head engulfed in flames, wielding a two-handed sword of obsidian.


    The fox shed its humanity, reshaping into a humanoid plant, its presence radiating unnatural allure.


    And the hippocampus¡­ swelled, becoming an abomination of grotesque, shifting flesh.


    Henry cursed under his breath, ¡°This might be trouble.¡±


    Dante, uninterested in their reaction, conjured a throne of human remains and sat, exhaling softly.


    Then, with a single, lazy command...


    ¡°Kill them both.¡±

 Chapter 10

    I ran as fast as my legs could carry me. My heart pounded in my chest, but I didn¡¯t stop.


    Something was seriously wrong.


    Why the hell are there monsters flying in the sky? What¡¯s with that giant beam of light?


    What the f*** is going on?


    I skidded to a stop in front of my mother¡¯s room and shoved the door open.


    ¡°Mom!¡±


    She was already awake. She sat at the edge of her bed, gripping a picture frame of her and my father.


    Judging by the pale, hollow look in her eyes¡­ she already knew.


    ¡°Come with me,¡± she said, standing quickly.


    I barely had time to react before she grabbed my wrist and pulled me toward the living room.


    Jade was still curled up on the mattress. How the hell is she still asleep?


    Mom violently shook her until her eyes flickered open.


    Jade mumbled sleepily, rubbing her eyes, ¡°What¡¯s¡­ happening?¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t have time.¡± Mom said.


    She pulled Jade to her feet and turned to me.


    ¡°Stay Close, Nero.¡±


    Together, we stepped outside.


    And what I saw made my stomach drop.


    The sky was different. Darker than it should¡¯ve been. I knew there was an eclipse today, but this wasn¡¯t normal.


    The figures I had glimpsed earlier were now clear.


    They weren¡¯t birds. They weren¡¯t even human.


    They were shadows, gliding unnaturally toward the village below.


    Toward Zero.


    Toward everyone.


    I took a step forward, ¡°We have to¡ª¡±


    Mom¡¯s hand shot out, gripping my wrist, ¡°NO.¡±


    I blinked at her in shock, ¡°But Zero and Violet¡ª they could¡ª¡±


    ¡°Forget about them.¡±


    Her voice was cold.


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    I stared at her. Forget them?


    The people we lived with? The people we called family?


    My fists clenched, ¡°But¡ª¡±


    ¡°Enough, Nero.¡±


    Mom had never raised her voice to me before.


    Her grip tightened, and for the first time, I saw it...the fear in her eyes.


    ¡°If we stay, we die,¡± she said, voice sounded serious.


    ¡°In situations like this, I have to protect you. Above all else.¡±


    I swallowed hard.


    Mom turned to Jade, hesitating.


    I knew what she was thinking.


    She didn¡¯t want to be responsible for the child her husband had with another woman.


    And then...


    A sound tore through the sky.


    A scream.


    Not human.


    The an unknown beast landed in front of us.


    Its body was twisted, shifting, as if it had never decided what shape to take. Its head was a featureless void, yet its presence alone made my skin crawl.


    Jade took a step forward taking a deep breath, ¡°I offer myself to it. I can tell that you don''t want me here.¡± Her voice was very soft and quiet.


    She was about to offer herself to the creature.


    Mom grabbed both of us and yanked us inside.


    She moved fast, pulling back the carpet in the living room.


    A rune circle was carved into the wooden floor beneath.


    She placed her palm on it, whispering something that wasn¡¯t even a language I recognized.


    The air rippled.


    A glowing blue portal erupted in the center of the room.


    Jade gasped.


    I froze.


    Mom turned to us, ¡°Both of you, hold on to me.¡±


    ¡°Mom, wait¡ª¡±


    She didn¡¯t.


    She pulled Jade with one arm and gripped my hand with the other.


    And then¡ª


    The world vanished.


    I hit the ground hard, stumbling forward.


    Jade let out a small cry as Mom gently set her down.


    I sucked in a sharp breath. My head was spinning.


    where¡­?


    I looked up.


    We weren¡¯t home anymore.


    A vast open landscape stretched out before us, a high, grassy cliff overlooking the ocean.


    The sky was still blue. What a relief.


    Mom sighed, brushing her hair back, ¡°We made it.¡±


    I turned to her, my mind racing, ¡°Mom, where are we?¡±


    She placed her warm but slightly sweaty hands on my shoulder, ¡°Somewhere safe. We¡¯ll wait here until your father handles everything.¡±


    I scowled. ¡°You¡¯re avoiding the question. Where the hell are we?¡±


    Mom didn¡¯t answer.


    ¡°Zero¡¯s still back there! The village¡ª¡±


    ¡°I know, Nero.¡±


    Her voice was quiet. Heavy.


    She hesitated before adding, ¡°I don¡¯t want you to know what¡¯s going to happen to them.¡±


    She knelt down and hugged me.


    I should¡¯ve felt comforted.


    But I didn¡¯t.


    Jade watched us in silence before finally speaking, ¡°Why did you bring me here?¡±


    Mom didn¡¯t respond. She didn¡¯t even acknowledge her presence.


    She just held me tighter.


    That¡­ was answer enough.


    I couldn¡¯t speak. I had so many questions¡ª


    Why was this happening?


    Why were we running?


    Why did it feel like this wasn¡¯t the life I was supposed to have?


    Maybe¡­


    Maybe Mom was right.


    Maybe I should just wait for Dad and Ethan to end this.


    They were the strongest. They could handle it.


    This would all be over soon.


    Right?


    The three of us walked in silence.


    Mom led us toward something unexpected.


    A mansion.


    Out here? In the middle of nowhere?


    ¡°What the hell¡­?¡± I muttered.


    Mom turned to us, forcing a smile.


    ¡°Listen carefully,¡± she said.


    ¡°We¡¯ll be staying here for a while. Until those two idiots fix everything. Go inside, find a room, settle in. I have something to take care of.¡±


    She didn¡¯t wait for a response.


    Jade and I exchanged a glance.


    We knew better than to ask questions.


    We wouldn¡¯t get answers.


    So we headed toward the mansion.


    ¡°What now?¡± Jade asked.


    I sighed. ¡°We wait.¡±


    That¡¯s all we could do.


    Dad and Ethan were our only hope. There was no point in putting ourselves in danger.


    Jade averted her gaze, her expression dark, ¡°Then why did she take me with her? She doesn¡¯t even want to look at me.¡±


    I hesitated.


    I understood why, but she was too young to.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think about it too much,¡± I said, glancing at her. ¡°Mom will will open up eventually.¡±


    Jade didn¡¯t look convinced.


    We reached the front door of the mansion.


    We both stood there, staring up at the place that would be our refuge for the foreseeable future.


    For now...


    All we could do was wait.

 Chapter 11

    I''m back here again¡­my old bedroom.


    The sight felt oddly distant, like I was peering into a memory that didn¡¯t belong to me anymore.


    It was strange¡ªI could barely remember what I used to look like. Thank God I had a mirror in my closet.


    I walked over, hesitant, and pulled open the door.


    The reflection staring back at me felt foreign.


    ¡°This stupid punk haircut¡­ the ridiculous amount of piercings¡­ damn, what was wrong with me back then?¡± I muttered under my breath.


    The longer I looked, the more unsettling it felt.


    Why was I here?


    The last thing I remembered was falling asleep in my new bedroom. Or¡­ did that even happen?


    Had I imagined it?


    Was this some kind of afterlife? A hallucination?


    And if it was¡­ then was that world even real?


    ¡°It is real, Nero.¡±


    I turned sharply.


    Sitting on my bed was me¡ªa younger version, flipping through an old poetry book.


    He didn¡¯t look up as he recited, ¡°Joy and woe are woven fine, / A clothing for the soul divine.¡± He ran his fingers along the pages.


    ¡°We used to be such a bookworm back then. Shame we threw it all away.¡± He shut the book and finally met my gaze.


    I took a slow step forward, fists clenched, ¡°Explain, what''s going?.¡±


    He tilted his head, smirking, ¡°Explain what exactly.¡±


    Frustration burned in my chest, ¡°I could never rely on myself for a straight answer. If that world is doomed, why send me there? Why not someone else? Why wasn¡¯t I told in advance? ANSWER ME¡±


    He chuckled, tossing the book aside, ¡°Because you¡¯re the one who can change it.¡±


    A cold weight settled in my chest, ¡°Why me?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re an Anomaly, Nero.¡± His smirk widened. ¡°Not just you¡ªevery human from Earth. You weren¡¯t meant to be born. You were forced into existence. Earthlings aren¡¯t tied to the Book of Fate. Instead, we rewrite it with our choices.¡±


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    I was completely stun after hearing what he said.


    "Not meant to be?"


    My mind spun with the implications.


    If I was never supposed to exist, then¡­ what did that mean for Mom and Dad? Would they have had another child instead? Would Zero have grown up alone? Would Jade have¡ª


    I swallowed hard.


    What would have happened without me?


    ¡°The seal between the two worlds has been broken,¡± my younger self continued. ¡°Meaning the Veils and their ruler, Dante are coming. They are monsters formed from human fears, given life. If they aren¡¯t stopped, this world will become just like theirs.¡±


    I forced my thoughts back on track, ¡°So what? That means I can stop Dante? Stop the Veils from destroying everything?¡±


    His smirk faded, ¡°Maybe.¡±


    ¡°Maybe?!¡± I took a step closer, anger rising in my voice.


    ¡°You¡¯re telling me I was born a complete anomaly, given a second chance in this world, just for a maybe?¡±


    For the first time, his expression turned¡­ sad.


    ¡°You still don¡¯t get it, do you?¡± He stood, taking slow steps toward me.


    ¡°You¡¯re not some hero chosen by fate. You weren¡¯t meant to save the world. That¡¯s why you¡¯re an anomaly¡ªyou weren¡¯t supposed to be there at all. Your actions only change what happens. If you¡¯re reckless, if you throw your life away¡ªthere¡¯s no saving you.¡±


    My breath hitched.


    As I opened my mouth to argue, he raised a hand stopping whatever I was able to say.


    ¡°Stay with Nicole and Jade for seven years,¡± he said.


    ¡°Train yourself before heading to Nevercity. A method of defeating the Veils will be introduced, and it might make things easier for you.¡±


    My hands clenched, ¡°Who the hell are you?¡±


    His gaze softened, ¡°Your promise.¡±


    The world around us flickered. The walls cracked like shattered glass, the floor beneath me shifting as if reality itself was breaking apart.


    I stumbled back, but my younger self stood firm, unaffected.


    ¡°You can doubt yourself all you want, Nero,¡± he said, his voice begun to echo.


    ¡°You can question if that world is real, if you¡¯re real¡ªbut that won¡¯t change anything.¡±


    The walls shattered.


    The darkness returned.


    And as the void swallowed me whole, I heard his voice one last time.


    ¡°This world needs saving.¡±


    ---


    I jolted upright, gasping for air.


    Sweat clung to my skin, my heart hammering against my ribs. The darkness of my room pressed around me, but it wasn¡¯t the void from before.


    It was real.


    I was here.


    I ran a shaky hand through my hair, trying to steady my breathing. My old room¡­ the dream¡­ my younger self. It all felt too real.


    ¡°This world needs saving.¡±


    The words refused to fade.


    I wasn¡¯t supposed to be in this world. I wasn¡¯t meant to exist here. And yet, for some reason, I had been given this life.


    A life that could change everything.


    I swallowed hard, forcing my breath to slow.


    There was no point in questioning it anymore.


    Whether I was supposed to be here or not¡ªwhether I was an anomaly¡ªit didn¡¯t change the fact that the world was in danger.


    And I couldn¡¯t ignore that.


    I threw off the covers and slid out of bed, my legs unsteady.


    I havs seven years.


    Seven years to train, to prepare. Seven years before heading to Nevercity.


    I needed strength.


    I needed knowledge.


    I needed power.


    If I could get my summoning book back, I could start learning magic. Mom might be able to retrieve it with that teleportation spell she used. That was my first step.


    I don''t really care what fate has in store.


    When the time came, I would take whatever method existed to defeat the Veils.


    And then¡ª


    I¡¯d send those bastards right back to where they came from.

 Chapter 12

    My arms were burning, but I need to push myself.


    I needed to be stronger...strong enough that I wouldn''t be helpless when the time came.


    One¡­ two¡­ three¡­ keep going.


    My breathing increase, but my body was starting to feel the strain. I gritted my teeth, forcing myself to keep a rhythm.


    Just a few more.


    Just a little¡ª


    My door creaked open.


    "Nero, breakfast is¡ª"


    I froze mid-pushup, glancing toward the door.


    Jade stood there, her hand gripping the wooden frame. Her purple eyes were looked at him both curious and uninterested.


    "Was I interrupting something?" she said, stepping inside.


    I exhaled, finishing my last rep before pushing myself up into a sitting position, "It not really, just finished my morning set." I muttered, rolling my shoulders.


    "I''m just doing some basic strength training. Can''t let myself get fat and lazy."


    Jade lean against the door, tilting her head after noticing he was oddly muscular for a seven year old, "You''re kinda strong, huh?"


    I started performing some stretches as I replied, "Back home, my best friend would always get bullied by the kids. I simply gotten stronger for him. Plus dad was always a strong swordsman. Since I don''t like using swords, I will use the strength I got from him."


    She rest her left hand underneath her chin, "I see, well it''s impressive real. I don''t know any kids that are interested in exercising. You don''t mind if I ask a question?"


    I wiped some sweat off my forehead, "Go ahead."


    Jade''s expression shifted slightly. She glanced away, idly playing with the hem of her sleeve, "¡­What''s he like?" she asked softly.


    I blinked. "Huh?"


    "Our dad¡­was he good...you know?"


    For a moment, I didn''t know how to respond.


    Memories of Henry flashed through my mind¡ªhis broad grin, the way he ruffled my hair, the ridiculous jokes he told even when Mom sighed at them. The way he always left for long stretches but never failed to bring something back when he returned.


    I can write a documentary on how much I respect him before I found out that I had a sister.


    But considering her feelings, I don''t want to overly talk about it.


    A hero. A warrior. A father.


    Those are the only thing that matters.


    "He''s a hardworking hero to the people and a loving father and husband to us. Nothing else needs to be said." I replied.


    Jade was quiet.


    She didn''t react right away, just stared at the wooden floor with a contemplative look, "¡­I see." she mumbled.


    She turned toward the door, "Breakfast is ready."


    Then, without another word, she left.


    I sat there, watching the door swing shut behind her, before letting out a quiet breath.


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    Looks like I should avoid taking about dad when I''m around her.


    ---


    The scent of freshly baked bread and warm broth filled the air as we sat at the table.


    It was a simple meal¡ªsome roasted meat, eggs, and sliced fruit¡ªbut considering everything that had happened, it felt almost surreal to be having such a normal breakfast.


    Jade sat across from me, silently eating her food, while mom sat at the head of the table, her expression unusually serious.


    For a while, no one spoke.


    Then, after taking a slow sip from her cup, mom finally broke the silence, "I think it''s time I tell you both what''s going on."


    Jade looked up from her plate, eyes curious. I, on the other hand, already knew what was coming.


    Still, I stayed quiet, letting her continue.


    Mom folded her hands together, "The Veils¡­ they''re creatures born from fear and curses. Monstrosities that should never have existed in our world. For centuries, they were locked away, sealed behind the strongest barriers known to man."


    She sighed, rubbing her temple, "But given that the eclipse still active. Dante most likely escape with his army of Veils."


    I felt my jaw tighten.


    Dante.


    Even hearing his name left a bad taste in my mouth.


    Jade tilted her head, "Who is he?"


    Mom hesitated, "A nightmare. A man who¡ªif we can even call him that anymore¡ªwants nothing more than to turn this world into a wasteland." She placed her hands on the table.


    "Henry and Ethan are fighting to stop that from happening...to be frank they are only people that can fight them." mom was shaking and there was no confidence in her voice.


    Jade''s grip on her spoon tightened, "And how long will that take?"


    Mom closed her eyes for a moment before answering, "As long as it takes for them to save the world."


    I lowered my gaze, gripping the fork in my hand. So it''s just like Young Me said. This world is already set on a path to destruction¡­ and Henry and Ethan are the only ones trying to stop it.


    Except¡­ that wasn''t true.


    I was here.


    I could do something.


    But how?


    I glanced at Mom.


    She had managed to create a portal¡ªa teleportation spell strong enough to take us from the village to this island. That alone was insane. If I could figure out how she did it¡­


    "¡­Mom...How did you make that portal early?"


    The room went deathly silent.


    Jade glanced between us, confused.


    Nicole, however, had gone completely still.


    Then, without a word, she pushed back her chair and stood.


    "Never ask me that again."


    Her voice was cold than ever.


    And just like that, she left the table.


    I didn''t move.


    I didn''t say anything.


    But deep down, I knew¡ªwhatever that spell was¡­


    She didn''t want me to know.

 Chapter 13

    Thud. Thud. Thud.


    My fists slammed into the tree trunk, each punch sending small tremors up my arms.


    The rough bark scraped against my knuckles, but I ignored it. Pain meant I was building strength. I had to push through it.


    Jab. Cross. Hook.


    I kept my stance tight, focusing on form over power. The last thing I needed was to throw wild punches and waste my energy.


    Jab. Cross. Hook. Uppercut¡ª


    My movements faltered.


    A chill ran down my spine, and I turned my head slightly.


    There, from the second-story window of our home, Mom was watching me.


    She didn''t say anything.


    She didn''t move.


    She just watched.


    A strange unease settled in my chest.


    I wasn''t doing anything wrong, but the way she looked at me¡­ it felt like she didn''t like the fact that I was training.


    I exhaled, shaking my head. Forget it.


    Wiping the sweat from my brow, I decided to stop for now.


    That''s when I saw it.


    The wooden shed, partially hidden behind the trees.


    I had never noticed it before.


    Curious, I walked over and pushed the door open.


    A musty scent filled the air, dust floating through the dim light as I stepped inside. It wasn''t a storage shed for tools or firewood¡ªno, this was something else entirely.


    Lining the walls were weapons.


    Swords. Spears. Axes. Bows.


    This was an armory.


    My gaze swept over the racks of weapons, taking in their craftsmanship. Some were old and rusted, while others looked well-maintained.


    Then, my eyes landed on it.


    A long red sword, resting on a wooden stand.


    The blade was covered in intricate rose ornaments, its hilt wrapped in dark leather.


    Despite the dust in the shed, this weapon looked untouched¡ªas if it had been waiting.


    For what?


    Or who?


    I took a cautious step closer, reaching out¡ª


    The moment my fingers brushed the hilt, a sharp pulse shot through my palm.


    I yanked my hand back.


    The air around the sword felt different now.


    Almost like it was watching me back.


    ---


    "You shouldn''t be in here, Nero."


    I jumped at the voice behind me.


    Turning around, I found Mom standing at the entrance of the shed, her arms crossed, her expression beyond furious.


    I glanced at the sword again before meeting her gaze, "This sword¡­ it''s different from the others."


    Mom exhaled through her nose, stepping inside, "That''s because it''s not just a weapon. It''s a curse sword."


    "A cursed sword?" I frowned.


    She nodded, "This is Eden, the Rosewick family''s treasure. A blade that should never be wielded."


    I looked at the sword again, its crimson sheen almost pulsing under the dim light, "Why do we have something like this?"


    Mom didn''t answer immediately. Instead, she walked past me, gently running her fingers along the weapon''s hilt.


    "This island¡­ It belongs to the Rosewick bloodline. Our family''s sanctuary," she finally said.


    I blinked, "Wait...this is our island?"


    Mom turned to face me, "Yes. And the reason we never lived here before is because a Rosewick must be present during their stay.."


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    I frowned, "What happens if someone else steps foot here?"


    Mom''s expression turned grim, "If there are no living Rosewick on the island. Non members become part of the island."


    I stiffened, "What do you mean?"


    She sighed, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, "Non-blooded visitors¡­ turn into flowers."


    A cold shiver crawled down my spine.


    "So, you¡­?"


    "I can be here because of two of you. The island views me as a guest but under heavily watch. The mere moment you two leave...I will die." Mom said with calm tone in her voice.


    I glanced around the shed again, trying to process it all.


    A cursed sword, a family island that turns outsiders into flowers¡­ What else was I going to learn today?


    Mom sighed, rubbing her temples, "Henry never wanted us to live in isolation, which is why we stayed in the village. Since he had to work all the time, he wouldn''t be able to stay with me on island. He wanted me to have people around to keep me company and also we wanted to start a family somewhere in the countryside...we couldn''t take away your childhood, so we did what''s best."


    Wow...I have one hell of family to be honest. Is weird that part of me wants to stay with mom... given how they done for me already.


    But I need to know one thing though, "Mom, are you certain this place can defend against the veils. Has dad ever seen that happened?"


    Mom opened her mouth, then shut it.


    She doesn''t know either.


    As if reading my thoughts, Mom''s gaze hardened, "Stop whatever you''re thinking, Nero."


    I tensed. "I¡ª"


    She grabbed my wrist, dragging me out of the shed, "I know that you want to leave help fight."


    I dug my heels into the ground, trying to resist, "You know I can''t just sit here and do nothing. Besides I''m not talking about immediately, just after a few years-"


    Mom''s grip tightened, "AS YOUR MOTHER, I HAVE DO WHAT''S BEST!" She tugged me out of the shed but soon realised that left a red mark on my wrist.


    Her eyes widened completely staring at the red mark she left while her body was trembling slightly.


    We both stood underneath the sunlight, the warmth doing little to ease the tension between us.


    Mom turned to face me, her face turn completely sadden, "I know what you''re feeling, Nero. I know you want to help. But you''re still a child. And I will do everything in my power to make sure you stay here until this is over."


    She sounded remorseful.


    Now thinking about it, young me said that someone would have the method of defeating the veils.


    Can I even trust myself honestly...I known for lying and hating the people around me. What if that person doesn''t exist and I put myself, mom and Jade in danger over an assumption that can''t be proven.


    Dad and Ethan are the strongest, they most likely have ways of dealing with Dante.


    If I''m an anomaly to this world, what good would it make if I were to go to Nevercity.


    ...


    ...


    I need to think about this.

 Chapter 14

    I lay on my bed, staring at the ceiling while my hands clenched into fists. Trying my hardest not pierce my skin.


    God, what am I supposed to do now?


    Mom has every reason to keep me here. This island is probably the safest place on the planet but even she is unsure of that.


    I closed my eyes hoping that would help, but it didn''t stop the thoughts from circling in my head.


    If I run off after seven year and I''m wrong, if I make the wrong move, I could get myself or worse, the people close to me. Hell, what if this method turns out to be a curse that destroys your body. Then I''m basically killing myself with a few extra steps.


    But if I stay here and do nothing, if I just wait like Mom wants, I''ll be useless. I''m the son of one of the strongest knights. I should at the very least go help out.


    I sat up, gripping the sheets.


    "Seven years." I whispered to myself.


    That''s the minimum time I have...but why that time specifically.


    That''s so much of my life taken away isolated in constant fear.


    Not the otherworldly experience I hope for...but I did get seven years of uninterrupted paradise. I should be lucky that I''m not in hell right now.


    What am I kidding, I''m slowly going to walk myself in there.


    I glanced toward my window, the sunny sky. The sun hasn''t dropped since the eclipse started and it''s alarming.


    I don''t know whether it''s night or day.


    What''s going to happen to the environment? Just how much changes will this world undergo? And most importantly, how are the people able to adjust to the changes?


    As I was deep in thought, I heard a soft knock against the door.


    ---


    Before I could answer, it creaked open, and Jade stepped inside.


    She didn''t say anything right away. Instead, she walked over and sat on the floor near my bed, hugging her knees, "Umm what''s up?"


    Her eyes flickered toward me. She looked caution for some reason.


    "You really want to leave?" she finally asked.


    I sighed, rubbing my face, "Yeah."


    She hummed in thought before leaning back on her hands, "I figured. You looked so serious earlier, even when your mom dragged you out of the shed."


    I glanced at her, "Were you spying on me?"


    She shrugged, "Hard not to when your mom was yelling. Plus, I was actually watching you hit the tree trunk. It''s by the most entertaining thing on this curse island."


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    At least she is update with the lore of this place.


    I sighed before asking, "Since you know already, what would you do in this situation?"


    "If it were me," she started, "I wouldn''t try to leave right away."


    I raised an eyebrow, "Oh?"


    She nodded, "Firstly, am I prepared for the outside world. In your case, no you were shelter in the comfort of your home. Secondly, I would ask myself, how many people am I hurting if I get involved compared if I didn''t. If didn''t want to visit my dad, I would be hurting myself but since I chose to see him. I end up hurting his family."


    I crossed my arms and stared at ground, "With that logic, staying here sounds like the best choice."


    Jade grinned slightly, "Your mom has her reason, right? End of day, you are a child. You limited to a lot of things."


    I thought about that for a second.


    That¡­ atually very true. I would be very limited as a child.


    Seeing my expression shift, Jade smirked.


    She stood up, brushing off her dress, "Anyways, I''m glad I could be helpful."


    I looked up, "Is there reason why you wanted to chat with me?"


    She just grinned and walked toward the door. But before stepping out, she glanced back at me.


    "You are the only person I can talk with. Your mom doesn''t want to look at me but treat me like a normal person." she said with a wink before slipping out of the room.


    I didn''t hear any footsteps after she closed the door. She must be still standing there.


    "JADE! YOU ARE MY SISTER! OF COURSE I WILL TREATED YOU WITH SOME RESPECT!" I literally shout at the top of my lungs.


    After a few seconds of silence, "OKAY BROTHER, IF YOU WANT TO HANGOUT! I''M ALWAYS AVAILABLE!" She shouted back before running off.


    A soft smile appeared on my face.


    Maybe Jade was onto something.


    ---


    Jade''s words lingered in my mind long after she left.


    I had to be smarter about this.


    Mom wasn''t going to budge easily, but if I gave her a reason to trust me.


    I took a deep breath, pushed myself off the bed, and left my room.


    Mom was in the main hall, standing near the window with her arms crossed, staring out at the endless ocean that surrounded the island.


    She looked quite was relax, "Looks like you to getting along."


    Part me expected that she didn''t hear us screaming at each other.


    I stepped forward, "Mom, can we talk?"


    She turned her head slightly, "If this is about what happened earlier, Nero, I''m very sorry for becoming aggressive and hurting you." Her eyes were looking directly at the wrist she hurt.


    "It''s not about that and honestly I don''t care about that. I have a proposal to make with you."


    She turned to face me fully now, arms still crossed,she had that suspicion look on her face, "A proposal?"


    I nodded, "We stay here for ten years. I train, I learn, and grow stronger. But if after ten years, the world still isn''t saved, then I get to leave and help."


    Mom''s jaw tightened, "Nero¡ª"


    "I know you want to keep me safe," I said quickly, stepping closer.


    "But we both know that hiding here forever isn''t a real solution. If things get worse, this island won''t be enough to protect us. I need to be ready for that. We need to be ready."


    She exhaled sharply, rubbing her temples, "Ten years¡­" she muttered.


    I pushed forward, "That more than enough time for dad and Ethan. Plus they might establish a way of defeating them for good by then."


    Mom was silent for a long moment.


    Then, finally, she sighed, "...You''re serious about this?"


    I nodded firmly. "Completely, all I need is my summoning book and gauntlet. I learn as much as humanly possible."


    She watched me, her sharp eyes searching for any sign of hesitation. When she found none, she let out a slow breath.


    "...Fine."


    I blinked, "Wait, really?" I was expecting mom to use her slippers to shut me down but she actually agree.


    She crossed her arms again, "I don''t like it. And I don''t think you should be worrying about things like this at your age. But¡­ I know I can''t keep you caged forever. Ten years, Nero. That''s my limit. Your father and Ethan better win over there otherwise I will be piss."


    "Deal." I said with a smile on my face.


    Mom walked past me, pausing only for a moment to place a hand on my shoulder, "Scary thing is, you too would have done the same thing."


    Then, she left the main hall.


    I exhaled, shoulders relaxing slightly.


    Ten years.


    That was more than enough time to prepare.

 Chapter 15

    Jade and I sat on the front steps of the house, in all honesty. I don''t know if it''s morning, afternoon or evening. But the sea breeze is nice.


    Neither of us spoke much. We just stared out at the horizon.


    Mom had been gone for a while retrieving our belongings. I kinda feel like sh** for asking her to go get them.


    I wanted to go but wouldn''t let me leave.


    Suddenly...


    A blue portal flickered into existence a few feet away from us, and Mom stepped through, carrying a large sack over her shoulder.


    She didn''t look hurt at all, but I could tell from the tension in her movements that something was wrong.


    She dropped the sack in front of us with a quiet thud, "This is everything I could recover." shivering in place.


    "Are you okay?" Asked Jade


    "It''s freezing." She said laying down on the ground.


    Jade and I exchanged glances before I started reaching for my things.


    I pulled out my summoning book first, flipping through the pages, making sure it was intact. The familiar inked words and diagrams stared back at me, untouched.


    I looked over at Mom, "What''s the situation over there?"


    She hesitated for a moment before answering, "¡­Cold, dark and quiet."


    My stomach twisted.


    "The cold nights have completely overtaken the ruins. No one can live there anymore. It''s so dark that without a source of light, you basically dead meat."


    "¡­And Zero?" I asked


    Mom''s remained silent.


    That''s not surprising honestly...at least I was able to make that kid have fun life.


    Mom exhaled and got up before walking toward the house, "I need to rest. Nero, train if you want, but don''t push yourself too hard."


    Mom had a bracelet on her arm...that looks like Violet bracelet.


    Our home was truly gone.


    The place where I spent my childhood, where I met Zero, where I lived my second chance¡­ reduced to nothing but frozen ruins.


    Jade shifted beside me, "Are you going to be okay."


    I gently gripped my necklace and said, "Hopefully."


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    She gently pat my back, "If you want to talk about it... I''m here if you need someone shoulder to cry on."


    I sighed, running a hand through my hair, "Thanks but in all honesty, I rather learn this summoning magic crap as soon as possible."


    Jade offer a soft smile before standing up, "I will leave it to-"


    Before she could finish, I interrupt, "Actually, do you want to train with me?"


    She raised an eyebrow, "Me?"


    For starters, I can be a dumbass sometimes. Having someone who can point out certain points or offer some advice might be helpful.


    "I believe we might progress faster with two people. Might as well join me. Also think of this as two siblings bonding with each other." I said


    She crossed her arms, pretending to think, "Alright, look like my little brother wants to spend time with his big sister huh."


    It''s crazy how chill she is something.


    I smirked, "You''re on. But let''s go read the book inside."


    Important thing is that she feels welcome here. Mom already giving her a bad vib so I better feel comfortable since we staying together for a well.


    With that, we stepped off the porch and headed toward my bedroom.


    ---


    Jade and I sat cross-legged on the floor of my bedroom, the summoning book layed in front of us.


    When I opened the first page. The pages were worn, the ink slightly faded, but the diagrams and instructions were still perfectly legible.


    The first page talk about the magic reading gem on the final page. It''s highly recommend to use before casting magic.


    I flipped over to the last page and we saw a small white crystal. Then there were multiple colours.


    Turns out magic was predetermined by birth. The darker the gem, the more magic you had.


    I placed my hand and I was blue. The fourth best colour on the list. And Jade, she had green. The six best colour.


    "Looks like I''m the best." I said to her with a cocky smile.


    Jade slightly pout and said, "Well green happens to be my favourite colour. Let''s just move on." She immediately turned back to the first page.


    Jade traced a finger along the script, reading aloud, "Summoning Bonds: The process of forming a pact with a creature from beyond the veil of existence. Through this bond, the summoner may borrow magic and abilities unique to their chosen summon in exchange that the monster receive something in return."


    I leaned over, scanning the next section, "The contract is sealed through the act of naming. If the summon accepts the name, the bond is complete. If rejected, the summoner must either release the creature or force it into submission."


    Jade frowned, "Sounds¡­ a little aggressive."


    I shrugged, "I guess some creatures don''t like being told what to do."


    She huffed, "I wouldn''t either."


    We flipped to the next page, which was filled with intricate summoning circles. Each one had different purposes: some for binding creatures of flight, others for elemental beings, and a few marked with ominous warnings about unstable entities.


    I reached for the chalk set near my bed and grabbed the largest piece. "Alright, first step drawing the summoning circle."


    Jade nodded and took a smaller piece for herself, "What are you summoning?"


    I smirked, "Something basic and useful."


    I started sketching the lines of the circle carefully, making sure to follow the book''s example, "Alright, fine. I was thinking of summoning a Backpack Cat."


    Jade blinked, "¡­A what?"


    "A cat that has a backpack." sounds stupid but it one of the most easiest summon.


    Jade stared at me, "That''s the weirdest thing I''ve ever heard."


    "It''s practical."


    She shook her head and focused on her own circle, "Well, I''m summoning something pretty. A Boundless Butterfly."


    I raised an eyebrow, "A butterfly?"


    "They''re not just butterflies," she shot back. "They can guide people through unknown paths, detect danger, and even carry messages through the wind."


    "Alright, alright." I held up my hands in surrender. "That actually sounds useful."


    We finished drawing our circles, double-checking the markings. I flipped to the next page, reading through the final steps.


    "Okay, next step. We channel a bit of our energy into the circle, focus on the creature we want, and then call out its name."


    Jade exhaled. "Simple enough."


    I reached forward, pressing my palm against the chalked lines. A faint glow began to emanate from the circle. Jade did the same, her own markings shimmering with a soft blue light.


    Now, the real test began.