By Erika Whittle
From the depths they come, writhing and creeping in shadows, tainting all they touch. Like a black mist they scour the land looking for hosts. Once preyed upon good men turn dark, their will replaced by that of an unknown entity. Death without dying. A different definition of a walking corpse. This phenomenon has become a pandemic in the land of Arrs. No one knows where they came from nor how to stop the takeover. A once bright land is now desolate. Adults and children shut themselves within their homes at night with their lights blazing, hoping to keep the mist away.
I am Taya. The people who know me, say I'm a spunky little tomboy. But what can I do? I grew up climbing trees, not playing with dolls! At the ripe age of eighteen, I should have been filled with hopes of the future. Finally leaving the orphanage from which I grew up I was excited to start anew. I had planned to track down my sister from whom I was separated the past eight years. Then they came. Who would have thought that my new beginning would turn into a horrible ending. The end of Arrs. I don't know what is going on in the rest of the world but the kingdom of Arrs has reached a standstill. How can we maintain our peaceful lives when those around us are turning into something else?
I am a hunter of the tainted. I had planned to be a bard and earn a living while searching for Tali. But I've abandoned my flute and replaced it with a sword. I cut my brown, waist-length hair to just above my shoulders. My once sparkly hazel eyes, slightly dimmed. The blacksmith was one of the first to fall so I raided his residence for weapons. Sounds immoral but he won't miss them. Besides I do much worse things.
Six months after the start of the pandemic, with no end in sight, what was left of the royal family established guilds to hunt the tainted. The pay is meager but no commerce but that which is absolutely necessary is taking place anyways. Rations are available once a day and dorms were setup to house the hunters. The army takes care of security during the day and us hunters are active at night. The curfew for the citizens starts mid-afternoon and during the days when it is overcast no one is to leave their house.
In the beginning with our war against the tainted, many lives were lost. Neither the army nor the newly established hunters knew how to battle the tainted. They seemed to have no weakness. Many of the first hunters were mercenaries so it wasn't a lack of skill or tact. The abilities of the tainted far exceeded our own and they had no need for weapons. If they didn't kill with their bare hands then they strangled their opponents with their mist. It was only after multiple losses and group hunts that we came to realize that their weakness was the host body. Despite their powers they cannot bring a dead body back to life. Once the host dies the entity within dies with it. It was both an unfortunate and fortunate discovery. We figured out how to beat them but the cost was human life. Perhaps it's a mercy to the tainted who had killed their families. Even if they were to regain their consciousness they had already destroyed what mattered to them.
With this new found knowledge it became mandatory for all soldiers and hunters to work with at least one partner at all times. One person would need to distract the tainted while the other ends its life. Normally this was enough since the tainted never travelled in groups. But like any species, there are always those who stand apart from the rest. These individuals had skills that far exceeded the rest. The difference was their use of the mist. They didn't just use it as an extension of their limbs, they used it like it was an extension of their minds. It's properties seem similar to the sorcery of old which had long disappeared. It takes a group of at least five people or the presence of a sword master to deal with these mutant tainted.
I am a regular hunter. I'm not particularly good with a sword but I'm fast and nimble, the perfect distraction if you will. The man I've been partnering with is an amazing swordsman. I don't know his name and he always wears a hooded cloak so I don't know what he looks like. As far as I'm concerned it doesn't really matter since his skills are better than what I could have ever hoped for in a partner. I can say that he's tall with broad shoulders. He must be fairly muscular, since he slices through the enemy with ease. The funny things is, he makes such a grotesque action seem elegant. I asked him why he chose to partner up with me, and he said it was because I'm fast and mind my own business. I guess ambiguity is important enough to him for him to remain my partner. It's a little weird but I have no complaints. With all that has happened, who doesn't have a story? I'd rather have a competent partner than a friendly one. Conversation won't kill the enemy. That's all that matters.
| Author Notes | For those who read the first draft, first of all thank you. Though some edits will most likely be made there won't be anything new for you until chapter 12. |
By Erika Whittle
The sun has begun to set and it's time for me and my partner to get down to business. We met up at the dorm entrance and set off with our weapons and lanterns. I snuck a few crackers into my pocket from todays rations just in case. It's not like we can eat what we kill. Nothing worse then being hangry, well except for the tainted I guess. And the death of loved ones...but I digress.
We were assigned a particularly strong tainted located in the next village, along with two other groups. Only groups with a near perfect success rate are assigned to these types of tainted. Thanks to my partner, we have never failed to kill our target. He does all the heavy lifting and I just dodge and run like hell. Though we've never faced a mutant before I'm only a little worried. I have faith in my partner and the other teams should be just as good. I'm mostly curious about these abilities I have only ever heard of. I wonder if they're as great as they say or if the rumors are exaggerated by those who couldn't stand losing. Apparently human politics remain even when the world is ending. Who knows? I guess I'll find out soon.
The other two groups are meeting us there. They are supposed to be the best from their respective villages.
"Have you ever met the groups we're going to be working with?"
Normally we are silent when we travel but curiosity has gotten the better of me and I've decided to initiate conversation with mister mysterious.
"I've never met with them but I've heard of them. All of them had a reputation before things went to hell. Two were notable mercenaries. Of the other two, one is the second son of a prominent family and the other was a merchant known for dealing with some questionable people over seas."
"The mercenaries I can understand but a young master and a merchant? Shouldn't the young master be an official knight? And a merchant? What's he going to do, talk the tainted to death?"
"The young master had planned to enter the court but since he's from a good family he received proper sword training since young, regardless of his aspirations. That's just how noble families work. And the merchant is a talkative woman but she's not to be underestimated. She did all her dealings in person and unofficially the majority of her trade was done with pirates. She's used to taking care of herself and has the brains and skills to do it. I bet she could make even the devil sell his soul."
"For a quiet guy you sure know a lot."
"...it's easier to listen when you're quiet. Plus I've been around. You hear more when you travel."
"That's true. But what did you do before you became a hunter? Were you also a merchant? I would think your sword skills are too good for that. A mercenary maybe?"
"..."
Well I wasn't expecting an answer anyways. He's already said more than I thought he would.
The rest of the journey was done in silence. I didn't say anything more and he's never initiated a conversation, except for when we first worked together and he asked to be my regular partner. I was too busy trying to live to bother talking so that's probably why he asked. The person I previously worked with was the average joe who liked regular conversation. He, however, was caught off guard on our last mission and got his neck snapped by the tainted we were hunting. End of him and the end of conversation. I met my current partner while I was dodging the damn thing. He just swooped in and chopped its head off. We've been partners ever since. I don't know where he was before or what he was doing but he followed me back to the dorm and registered with our current guild. Sometimes I wonder if he just became a hunter on a whim that day. I was too exhausted, physically and mentally to ask about it back then and I promptly found out my new partner is not a fan of talking only after agreeing to pair with him. Too late now. It's not important anyways. Only surviving matters now. That and my sister.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, mysterious swordsman of unknow identity, Taya's hunting partner |
By Erika Whittle
After about an hour of walking we came across four people sprawled around a fire. The entrance to the village was visible but far enough away that it was unlikely we'd run into the tainted we were hunting. There were three men and one woman. The woman was snacking on what looked like jerky. She was quite pretty. Her long brunette hair was neatly piled in a ponytail. Her green eyes held a mischievous glint. One man, who had a surprising resemblance to a bear, was polishing his sword. He was covered in dark brown hair, almost furry. His eyes were a unique color, brown with a golden rim. I don't think he's from around here. Another man was lying on the ground with his eyes closed, seemingly taking a nap. He was also well built but he still looked like a regular human. A regular human that loves pushups. His dirty blonde hair was covered in leaves. The third man was young, probably about my age. He had bright blonde hair and blue eyes. I would've thought him a ladies man if it wasn't for his atmosphere. He was dressed neat and tidy in clothes made of fabric that cost more than my life. He sat there, all picturesque, reading a book. How relaxed. I'm almost 100% sure this is the group of people we are supposed to be meeting up with, you know, since it's night and everyone else should be holed up at home. But one would think they're on a picnic, instead of getting ready for a hunting mission. Crazy. Maybe only weirdos have skills. All the normal ones must have been the first to die.
"Finally, you're here! My name is Brandy. The neat looking one is my partner, Jeremy. You can call him Jer. Those two are mercenaries. The big one is Derek and the even bigger one is Dave. Dave can't speak but his expressions are enough to tell you what he's thinking. Also, don't touch his sword. He gets very upset if anyone touches his sword." Derek opened his eyes and looked at us. Oh, they're hazel. And rather guarded hazel eyes at that.
"My name is Taya. This is my partner...who also doesn't speak much." I gestured to the man beside me.
"Nice to meet you! And it's not that Dave doesn't speak much, he actually can't speak. The tip of his tongue was cut off. But we've all worked together before and it's never been a problem. So, what's the quiet gentlemen's name?"
Everyone turned to look at my partner, including me. I might finally learn his name!
"...you can call me Demi."
Demi...somehow I feel it doesn't suite him. But he said "You can call me" not "my name is" so maybe it's a nickname or an alias.
"Okay Demi. Are you guys ready to get started?"
It seems Brandy is the spokesman of the group.
"Sure. The sooner we start the sooner we finish. First, have any of you hunted a mutant before? This is my first time."
"Yeah, the four of us have hunted a few. It's a bit tricky but not too bad with the right numbers. Those who are baiting it try and provoke it and once distracted the rest move in. I guess we should sort out who does what. Previously Jer and Derek have acted as the distraction while Dave and I attack. What are you two good at?"
Surprisingly before I could answer it was Demi who responded.
"Taya is fast and good at slipping away without getting hurt. I normally chop off its head while its running after her."
"Okay great. Then Taya will join Jer and Derek and Demi will come with me and Dave. Distraction team moves first. Set off these flares once you find the target."
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, mysterious swordsman of unknow identity, Taya's hunting partner Previously: Demi and Taya leave for their assignment. On the way they discuss the identities of their new teammates. |
By Erika Whittle
Jer, Derek and I headed into the village while the rest waited at the entrance. I don't know what I was expecting but it certainly wasn't this. The glow of our lanterns revealed a picture of disarray. Half the buildings were falling apart, debris every where. Abandoned stalls with rotting produce revealed where the market used to be. It was a ghost town. I knew this mutant was different but this amount of damage? There aren't even any signs of life!
As we reached the center of the village we froze in shock. There in the plaza was the tainted and behind it was a pile of bodies. We found the villagers. The tainted was a handsome young man. If it weren't for his blacked out eyes and the mist seeping out of his hands I would consider him a sight for sore eyes. But not with this scenery. For a moment the four of us stood and stared at each other. That was until it started smiling at us. I felt a chill run up my spine. Never had I seen a tainted express emotion. At most they exhibit slight irritation. And I knew, it was time to run.
I quickly set off a flare and ran like my ass was on fire. I'm not sure what Jer and Derek were doing but I wasn't going to look back and check. They're grown-ass men, better trained than me, they'll figure it out. If that creepy smile was any indication, our job was done! I darted behind a half crumbling house hoping to catch my breath. It was harder than normal since my heart was trying to jump out of my chest. I tried to focus on the sounds around me but all I could hear was my own blood pumping. I looked down at the lantern in my hand. Normally I'm not concerned about giving away my position since the goal was to get attention. But this time it's different. I considered abandoning the lantern but then I run the risk of being overtaken by the mist and becoming tainted myself. No. I'll keep the lantern. No matter what I intend to die fully human, body and soul. Besides I set off a flare so Demi and the others would be here soon. With new determination I peaked my head out from behind the building.
"Ahhhhhhh!" I screamed. Mister handsome devil is right in front of me, smiling ear to ear! From the distance I heard voices calling my name but I couldn't care less. I jumped backwards faster than I've ever moved in my life. It followed me with its eyes but remained still. Or so I thought, until black mist started snaking up my leg. I started swishing the lantern around hoping it would back off but nope. It wasn't regular mist but mist that already occupied a vessel. There was no dissuading it. The mist wrapped around my body, pulling me closer to it. As time seemed to slow down, and I was contemplating all my life choices, a voice broke through.
"Taya!"
Demi jumped in front of me and swung his sword at the tainted. The surprise must have broken its concentration because the mist that had captured me evaporated. An annoyed expression replaced the smile on its face as it dodged the attack.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, mysterious swordsman of unknow identity, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Taya and Demi meet their new teammates. The group discusses their roles in the raid. |
By Erika Whittle
"Stay behind me!" Demi ordered. Grateful and surprised, I did what I was told. The others had caught up to us, including Jer and Derek. It seems they decided distraction was no longer necessary and their weapons were drawn. They circled the tainted as Demi continued to attack. I figured this was a good time to pull out my own weapon so I attached my lantern to my belt and got ready to fight for my life. At this point the tainted was getting angry and it flung debris at Demi with its mist.
What unfolded before my eyes was a beautiful sword dance. The five of them took turns attacking their target with movements so precise it seemed prearranged. I was standing there ogling when all of a sudden an explosion of mist came rushing from the mutant. It grabbed our weapons, flinging them away in all directions. Then I heard a terrifying roar. At first I thought it was the tainted but then I saw its attention was focused on Dave. Dave had gone crazy! With eyes filled with madness he rushed towards the tainted. The bear-like man was surprisingly nimble, dodging the streams of mist cast his way. He grabbed the tainted by the neck and started bashing its head on the ground. I stared at him in disbelief as he pulverized the thing. I almost felt sorry for it. I promised myself to never even look at that man's sword.
When our once handsome target had turned into a bloody pulp, Derek managed to pry Dave away from him. He was heaving and didn't look like he had fully regained his senses.
"Your sword was flung that way!" Derek pointed to something glittering in the distance. At that Dave turned around to retrieve his prized possession.
"Well, now you know what happens if someone touches his sword!" Brandy started laughing. "Made our job easier! It was a close call for you."
"Yeah, a lot closer than I would have liked." I turned to look at the mutant. Beneath the pulverized flesh, black mist was ascending.
"Um guys, I don't think that's normal."
The group turned to look at where I was pointing. At first it wasn't noticeable but the mist was healing the wounds it touched.
"Oh shit! Dave! Get that sword over here and finish the job!" Derek yelled.
Demi moved in front of me once again in a protective stance.
Sword in hand, Dave came running back to where we were and plunged the sword into the mutants head. Or he tried to but was blocked by the mist that had formed a protective barrier around its host.
"I think we should retreat. The rest of us still have to find our weapons and we don't know what we're dealing with. This mutant is clearly different than the ones you guys have killed before." This shit is crazy and I wasn't worried about seeming cowardly.
"I think Taya is right. It will be daylight in a few hours and then we can search for the rest of our weapons and come up with a strategy."
"Alright, let's return to our makeshift camp and come up with a plan."
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, mysterious swordsman of unknow identity, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Demi and Taya meet their new team. Taya enters the village with the 'distraction' group where they meet the mutant tainted they're hunting. |
By Erika Whittle
With our spokespersons approval we exited the village and returned to where they had setup their fire earlier.
"Haaah , well that was an experience", I sighed.
"No kidding! I really thought it was over with after Dave went berserk but regeneration...what a pain in the ass!!!" Brandy scowled.
"I've never heard of or seen anything like that," Jer mused. The others nodded in agreement.
"And we've lost our weapons, well most of us anyways." Derek side-eyed Dave, who was clutching his sword like a lifeline. He was clearly still pissed because he growled in reply.
"Yes, well, I see what you mean about not touching Dave's sword." I raised both my hands in a show of surrender when Dave narrowed his eyes at me.
"Taya, that mutant seemed to have an interest in you. It didn't even spare Jer and I a glance when we retreated, it was too busy watching you." Derek sent me a puzzled glance.
Grreaat. A mutant stocker, every teenaged girl's dream-NOT!
"Well, I felt similarly when I first met you." Demi chimed in.
My mouth dropped open as I turned to him.
Demi shrugged, "That's why I impulsively registered as a hunter."
Way to drop a bomb; I just knew it was on impulse!
"Huh, well I guess we won't have to worry about bait then!" Brandy chuckled and Demi glared at her. "But we still need to come up with a strategy to kill it before it heals itself."
"Well we've learned that pummeling it isn't enough. Though that might be able to keep it occupied while the rest of us aim for vitals."
Ohoho Derek had more than just muscle.
"Rather than just vitals it would probably be best to chop off its head. The problem is that mist. If it disarms us and sets up a shield then we've got nothing." Demi's brow furrowed, seemingly trying to think of a way around the issue.
"Not only that, there's no known weight restriction when it comes to what it can pick up with the mist. It could just throw us out of the way like it was throwing debris earlier."
I wish mister smarty pants, neat and tidy would come up with a solution instead of more flaws!
"We could tie a rope to our swords and then tie the other end to our hands. At the very least we won't be separated from our weapons. It's interested in me so it probably won't fling me away. But since I'm not as skilled as the rest of you I would need a way to kill it in one shot."
"If you're right in front of it you could slash its eyes and then one of us can behead it." Brandy suggested.
"That requires us to believe that it's interested in keeping her alive. If not, she'll be dead before she can attack!" Demi's voice rose.
"We could try dousing it in oil and throwing a flare at it."
I should really stop judging people so quickly. Apparently strength wasn't the only reason Derek was a well-known mercenary.
"So let's setup a multi-tier plan. We'll tie weapons to ourselves like Taya suggested. Then Dave will attack first. If he's able to make contact then Demi will kill it while it's distracted. If not, Brandy will douse it in oil and I'll throw the flare. Derek will act as spare muscle. As a last resort, if the mutant approaches Taya, she will blind it and whoever gets there first will kill it."
"It's a pretty good plan," Brandy said while giving Jer a high-five.
"Wait." Demi interrupted. "I want to stay as close to Taya as possible. I'm not about to risk my partner based on a mutant's interest."
"Hmmm then Derek, you take Demi's part in the plan. Taya will stay behind Demi and he can play bodyguard in case both plans fail. Does that work?"
"That's probably as good as it's going to get," I replied before Demi could. He still looked displeased but didn't contradict me.
"We'll need to gather supplies first. Our village is the closest so let's head there. We can get some food and a little bit of rest before tonight. We also need to warn the guard to keep people far away from this village."
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, mysterious swordsman of unknow identity, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: The group has just finished their first battle with a mutant tainted. It ended in failure. |
By Erika Whittle
Having agreed on a course of action, we followed Jer and Brandy to their village. We met some soldiers along the way and told them what was going on. They assured us that they'd station people on the road to prevent anyone from getting close to the village. I ate my crackers on the journey.
Jer owned a large house that somehow managed to retain servants so we were able to washup and relax while waiting for our meal. Jer sent someone out to gather weapons and the rest of the needed supplies. Someone tried to relieve Dave of his sword but quickly backed away when he took an aggressive stance. They showed him to the training area so he could sharpen his sword himself.
Having bathed, I was enjoying the feel of the cloud-like bed beneath me when I heard a knock at the door.
"Come in!"
To my surprise, it was Demi.
"I thought you would be resting" I said as I reluctantly sat up.
"Sorry for disturbing you. You can lie back down, I won't take up too much time. I just wanted to talk to you before the hunt tonight."
I moved over slightly and patted the edge of the bed. Demi hesitated for a second before sitting down. Awe he's shy, how cute.
"No matter what happens tonight, stay behind me. If we get separated and the mutant approaches you, do whatever it takes to get away."
My eyes widened in surprise. Comparatively I wasn't that good in combat but I was still a hunter. I needed to at least do my part of the plan. I pursed my lips.
"Ok, I'll slash it's eyes and then run for my life."
Demi stared at me with a grim look. "What I'm saying is to get away at the nearest opportunity, regardless of whether or not you've blinded it. Things are different this time. Being fast and agile isn't enough. I will make up the difference so just prioritize your safety. Promise me."
"..."
"If you don't promise, we're not going. They can recruit someone else."
"We got recruited because we had the highest chance for success!"
"It doesn't matter. They can't make us participate; we're part of a guild not part of the army."
"Bu-"
"I won't back down on this." Demi firmly asserted.
"Fine." I huffed.
Demi nodded and then left the room.
I wasn't in a good mood. I know his intentions are good but I still feel dejected. Staying alive is definitely my priority but it wasn't a good feeling to be so poorly assessed. What he said wasn't wrong but it's left me feeling like a burden rather than a partner. I decided to try and sleep the feeling off.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, mysterious swordsman of unknow identity, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: The group has just finished their first battle with a mutant tainted. It ended with failure and they discuss their steps going forward. |
By Erika Whittle
I slept for a couple hours before I was called down to eat. The meal before us was a feast I could only imagine. Jer was indeed a young master. I wanted to stuff my face with as much food as possible but I reigned in the impulse. I still had some pride and some table manners. Cutlery. Cutlery exists for a reason...ahhh but why?! haaaaaaah. If Dave is using cutlery with those giant bear paws so must I. So I reached for my fork and knife and began eating like a civilized human. I felt a gaze on me and noticed that Demi was staring at me. I ignored him. Let him stare. I love food and it loves me.
Jer informed us that all the supplies were gathered. We decided to take a horse and buggy so we didn't have to carry everything. Derek offered to drive and Dave sat up front to keep him company. The rest of us piled into the buggy with the supplies. I'm just happy to conserve energy. That bed was amazing but two hours of sleep wasn't enough. I had dessert so I guess that makes up for something.
We stopped just outside the village where we before. We setup a fire to keep the mist away and began organizing and unloading weapons. We had a mini arsenal in case something unexpected happened and tying our weapons to ourselves didn't work.
I chose a dagger instead of a sword. Brandy chose a dagger which she hid in her boot. Then she grabbed canteens filled with oil and hooked them to her belt. Jer took a sword and multiple flares while Demi opted for a long sword. Derek chose a sword and...a morning star. I'm not sure where that came from but I'm not going to ask. Dave had his freshly sharpened sword and wasn't interested in anything else. Derek convinced him to wear brass knuckles. At this point I'm wondering what type of business Jer's family is into. Jer must have noticed my gaze because he looked pointedly at Brandy. She said one word, "pirates".
I guess Demi's info was legit. By this time the sun was starting to set. We paired up and got ready to execute the plan. This time, we all entered the village together. Once again, in the centre of the village, was the mutant. He was looking his pristine mutanty self, fully healed, like nothing at all had happened.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, mysterious swordsman of unknow identity, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: The group has just finished resting. Demi convinces Taya to prioritize her safety above the plan. |
By Erika Whittle
Dave and Derek quickly sprung into action with Jer and Brandy following behind. Dave jumped and swung his sword down on the mutant but a shield of mist blocked the attack. Undeterred, Dave alternated between swinging his sword with one hand and punching with his brass knuckles. The mist remained strong but he succeeded in pushing the mutant back. Pissed, the mutant once again tried to remove his sword...but Dave ended up flying in the air with it. For a moment it stood still in confusion. Derek took that moment to slash a sword across the back of it's neck. He almost succeeded too. The mutant sensed the movement behind him at the last moment so unfortunately the only victim was his hair. The first plan failed.
Brandy sprung into action next and began dousing the mutant in oil. It didn't know what to do with the sudden baptism and the mist disappeared. Derek had switched to the morning star and unleashed powerful swings at the mutant. The crunch of bones could be heard. Angry, it picked up Derek with the mist and threw him into Brandy. They both fell to the side with a thud. That's when Jer threw the first flare. It's clothes caught fire. Jer threw two more for good measure as Derek and Brandy scrambled to their feet. I saw Dave running towards us in the distance. The creature was howling. Demi moved forward, ready to put the thing out of its misery.
Right at the cusp of success, a demonic scream shook the ground beneath us. Powerful mist burst forth and set everyone flying back. Everyone except me. We're fucked. In a flash the mutant was in front of me. I reflexively grabbed my dagger and slashed it's eyes. That's when it happened. My body was soaring through the air, towards a broken metal pole. I'm 18 and about to become a human skewer. Life is so unfair. Then something slammed into me from the side. It was Demi.
Shaking and breathing heavily I looked at the man who was cradling me in his arms. I stopped breathing. The momentum had forced his ever-present hood back. For the first time I clearly saw his face. This man was either an angel or a devil. Black curly hair, bright blue eyes, and a chiseled jawline. Oh my God. The moment was broken when he sat me down and yelled at me to stay put. He rushed towards the mutant. And then, like magic, Demi's sword erupted into blue flames.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, mysterious swordsman of unknow identity, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: After resting and gather supplies, the group re-enter the village to hunt the mutant |
By Erika Whittle
Aura. There was only one person in this kingdom who could use aura. Remnants of time long past, the power was thought to be lost. It had been generations since anyone in the imperial family had manifested aura. That was until Demetri Von Arstine turned the tide of the continental war with his blue flames two years ago. At the tender age of 16 the bastard son of the king was sent to the battle field to die. But against all odds he returned a victorious war hero, was granted the title of duke, and shortly after disappeared.
To think that such an important figure not only saved me but registered as an insignificant hunter to stay be my side. What a crazy world.
What followed was a sword dance honed in war. Starting with the eyes that had begun to heal, the knees, and then the ankles, Demi decisively cut down the mutant without wasting any movement. The blue flames kept its regenerative abilities at bay. Finally, with the tainted lying prone at his feet, Demi sliced off its head.
Stifling silence followed.
"If you could do this all along than why did you wait 'till now!?"
Jer tried to cover Brandy's mouth but she wasn't having it. Brusquely swatting Jer's hand out of the way, she approached Demetri. "We could have settled this a long time ago had you just been honest about your abilities, your highness." Not one to hold back, Brandy's voice was laced in sarcasm.
"..."
"I also don't understand, your highness. Even if you wished to hide your identity, isn't it a bit much to hold back in this situation? You would know better than anyone else how important accurate information is in forming a battle strategy." Jeremy respectfully but firmly backed up his partner. Dave and Derek were silently looking at Demi. Their grim faces indicated they agreed.
"So what would you have done differently had you known?" a voice like frost asked. "Would you have me handle everything from the beginning and go back to your village with a fun story to tell? Then what would you have learned? How would you face a tainted like this in the future, when the only aura user in the kingdom is no longer by your side?"
The pointed question stung like a knife. He's right, any other time we would be fucked.
While Brandy was huffing, Demi turned around and walked away. I should go after him. He's my partner after all and, once again, I'm still alive thanks to him. I decided it would be best not to get in his face so I followed about 50 paces behind him. He must have known I was there but he just kept walking. The others never caught up to us. I'm guessing they didn't try.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, mysterious swordsman of unknow identity, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Everyone is pushed back by the mutant. Right when Taya was about to die Demi saves her. His sword erupts in blue flames. |
By Erika Whittle
The battle took most of the night and Demi and I walked the majority of the day. We stopped for a break once and Demi handed me some jerky. I have no idea where we're headed but I also had some stuff on my mind. Today I almost died a meaningless death to compliment my meaningless existence. The only person in this world that I'm connected to is in some unknown place. Would she even know if I died? Maybe she's forgotten me. Or maybe she agreed with her mother, that a stepsibling like me was nothing but a nuisance. Maybe I was too blinded by childish love to notice. A sense of loneliness engulfed me.
When the sun finally started to set and my legs felt like they would fall off, Demi stopped by a large rock formation and setup a fire. There was a stream a little ways in the distance. My throat felt like a desert so I grabbed our canteens to fill. I plunged my face into the water and started drinking with vigor. Ahhhh that's better. I'm alive again! As I stared at the river I decided that dignity was above my paygrade. Why not do what I want? I set the filled canteens aside and ran into the water, clothes and all. I smiled. Nothing like a bath to wash away the grime and dirty feelings. I looked up to see Demi staring at me, dumbfounded.
"Cleanliness is next to godliness, or at least that's what the nuns at the orphanage would say."
Demi paused for a second and then submerged himself in the river too. I was happily playing in the water when Demi finally broke his silence.
"Are you also angry?"
I could feign ignorance and ask him what he's talking about but it's been a long couple of days and I don't have that type of patience.
"Well, more like surprised. I think the only reason you used your aura is because I almost died. Had that not been the case you would have suggested we back off and come up with different strategies, right?"
"...right." haaaaaah
Wow, that was a sigh from deep within his bones.
"I don't take your lives lightly. It's just that, if anyone other than me faces a mutant like that then people need to know how to deal with it. Otherwise the amount of casualties will revert back to what they were like at the beginning."
"You don't have to explain yourself to me."
"But I don't want you to misunderstand. I would like it if we could remain partners."
Well it would certainly be beneficial for me to remain his partner. But after this ordeal my desire to find my only family has resurfaced to the front of my mind. I need answers. Why didn't she come back for me? Was I really abandoned? I expected as much from my stepmom but I always loved and followed Tali like she was my real big sister. Even if it's risky, even if I get hurt, I want to find her. If I keep waiting, one or both of us might die before ever meeting again.
"Demi, I have no qualms being your partner but I'm planning to travel. I was separated from my sister years ago and I'm afraid if I keep waiting for the current situation to stabilize it will be too late. If I move around, I can hunt and search for her. I think that would be better for my situation than staying at my current village hoping to get lucky."
After a moment of silence Demi hesitantly looked into my eyes,
"Then...could I come with you? I became a hunter because I was fascinated by your attachment to life. After being surrounded by constant death it was like seeing a spark of light in my dark world. I've forgotten what it's like to feel human. At times I feel as though I'm closer to being like the tainted than like a regular human being. I don't want to lose myself completely...so please let me stay with you."
I can feel my heart fluttering. It's a foul for such a handsome man to display such vulnerability. He could ask for anything in this moment and I would agree!
"Well there's no loss for me if you come along. Perhaps you'll find something worth living for along the way. I hope you do." Sincerely.
Demi nodded and gave me a small smile. I smiled back. We decided to check in at the next village and leave a message with our guild. We needed to let everyone know about this new type of tainted and what we learned from fighting it. Hunters typically settle in one area but Demi said he could pull rank if he really needed to. So it was decided; we would travel together, hunt the tainted and search for my sister.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Demi's identity is revealed. Demi kills the mutant but the group fight over his hidden abilities. Demi and Taya leave on their own. |
By Erika Whittle
"I can't believe they really left!" Brandy screamed. She had been ranting for a solid twenty minutes about Grand Duke Demetri.
"Brandy stop it. He's still royalty. In fact, since the crown prince was contaminated and had to be killed, he's the next in line for the throne. You should watch what you say!" Jer, irritated, reprimanded Brandy.
"Whose going to know unless one of you say something!"
When neither Taya nor Demetri returned they packed the buggy and went back to Jer's mansion in Taloff. However, when the next day came and neither of them had come to the mansion despite the weather, they couldn't help but worry. They couldn't send a messenger to their guild in Grenendale until the storm cleared. But the next day the messenger reported that neither had returned.
"What if they got stuck in the storm and their stupid asses got contaminated!"
"Haaaaah. You saw what his highness could do, Brandy. With those flames there's no way they got caught by the mist. He's protective of Taya so she'll be fine too." Derek was starting to get fed up with this loud woman. Sometimes he wishes he was more like Dave. Derek turned to look at Dave who was polishing his sword beside him, completely unbothered by the world around him. "If his highness uses his aura again we'll surely hear news of them. Until then there's nothing we can do."
"Speaking of which, I need to inform the authorities about the change in that mutant. It pains me to say it but his highness is right. There'll be a lot of trouble if we or any other group encounter a mutant like that again. Precautions need to be taken and strategies devised."
With that, Jer left the mansion. The content was too important to send a mere messenger. This needed to be dealt with swiftly and discreetly, before any of the general public finds out what happened in that village.
Tired of Brandy's incessant rambling, Derek went to the training ground to let off some steam. Dave quietly followed him. Brandy was left alone complaining to herself about irresponsible royals.
"That woman talks way too much!" Derek growled as his sword clashed against Dave's. "Is all that talking going to change anything? No; it's just going to frustrate the hell of everybody around her. Sometimes I envy you Dave. At least in your case she doesn't expect a response." Dave rose an eyebrow and hit back with a little bit more force."Ahhh, I know, I'm sorry. I'm just a little frustrated." Dave nodded his head in acceptance. They sparred until the sun went down.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Demi kills the mutant but his abilities and identity are revealed. The group fights and Taya and Demi leave. |
By Erika Whittle
Unfortunately for us the journey to the next village wasn't without it's issues. Instead of being greeted by the morning sun, a sudden storm blew in. We halted our travel plans and hastily built a shelter against the rocks with branches for pillars and leaves for the roof. It felt a little claustrophobic but what can we do? We managed to both huddle together in the shelter. Yet, getting all close and personal wasn't the main issue. The rain poured, and the wind blew and out went our fire. Just like a thick fog engulfs its surroundings, black mist crept towards us.
My breath quickened. It was like facing a nightmare. An enemy that can't be cut down or stopped. If I was smart I would have taken out a match or a flare, even if it was only temporary. But I was physically and mentally exhausted and something in me snapped. I've never had a panic attack before but there's a first for everything. I started hyperventilating; my mind filled with every negative thought I normally push aside. I forgot where I was, who I was. All I could focus on was the mist creeping its way towards me. And then I started shaking. Very forcefully.
"Taya, snap out of it!"
Demi had his arms on either side of me, shaking me to attention. I blinked once, twice. Then my vision cleared and I could see the man looking at me with a face full of concern. I took a deep breath. That's when I noticed a blue glow outside our shelter. Demi had spread blue flames in a circle around our shelter, keeping the mist away.
I sighed in relief.
"Are you feeling better now?"
Now that I've regained my senses I couldn't help feeling embarrassed. My cheeks turned red. I must've looked like such an idiot! I avoided his eyes and nodded my head.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome. Since my flames are connected to me the storm won't have any effect on them. You don't have to worry. I'm sorry, I should have told you when the storm started."
"You don't have to apologize, I'm sorry I froze up like that. I don't know what's wrong with me."
"In the past three days you've had very little rest and fought a mutant twice. This is a normal reaction. I've seen it plenty of times on the battlefield so you shouldn't feel bad about it."
"...really? You're not just saying that to make me feel better?"
"...after my first day on the frontlines, I had a similar reaction. Actually, you're doing better than me. I threw up and my predecessor made fun of me for weeks. "
My eyes widened. Demi was so strong I can't even imagine such a thing. But then again he was younger than I am now when he saw his first battle.
"That's so rude! Is that really something to make fun of?!" I was indignant. How dare they! While I'm here pissed, Demi was quietly laughing. "He didn't do it to be mean; it was to lighten the atmosphere. What's hell without jokes? Nothing but terror."
Ahhh, I get it now. Nuns don't really joke much so it's been forever since anyone's tried to lift my spirits that way. I talked a lot with my previous partner but we didn't tease each other. "Thank you for telling me. I feel a little better." Demi told me a few more stories about his mentor but I don't remember what happened after that. With the release of tension, I drifted off to the land of dreams.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Taya and Demi agree to remain partners. Demi decides to follow Taya on her quest to find her sister. |
By Erika Whittle
I opened my eyes to a familiar scene. A little girl was laughing, chasing her older sister through the meadow.
"Sister, sister, wait for me!" the little girl cried. The teenage girl laughed at the child waddling after her. "Hurry up Ty! Dad's finally home!" The little girl giggled as she followed. "Li, hand!" Tali reached out her hand for little Taya to hold. "Come now, we're almost there" Tali smiled.
The girls arrived at the quaint little home across the meadow and burst through the door. "Dad!" they cried in unison. The man opened his arms wide as the girls ran in for a hug. Beside him a beautiful young woman was smiling. It was a picture of the perfect family, filled with love and affection. If only I could see the man's face one more time, but even in dreams his features were blurred.
I woke up with tears streaming down my face. It was a cherished memory of a happier time.
Demi popped his head into the shelter. "I caught a rabbit. Let me prep it and then we can...are you okay? What's wrong?" I shook my head, avoiding his gaze. "It was just a dream." I wiped my eyes on the back of my hand.
"..."
"I'm really fine."
"Okay...why don't you washup by the stream while I cook. I've been up for a while so I went earlier."
I nodded my head and made my way to the stream. I stripped down and lay in the water, looking at the sky. haaaaah. It's been years since I dreamt of the past. Maybe it's because I'm finally on my way to search for Tali that old memories are resurfacing. I stayed in the river, rewinding and replaying my happy dream, until the smell of roasting meat made my stomach gurgle.
When I rejoined Demi, the rabbit skewers were done. "Eat up; it will take the rest of the day to get to the next village." Demi informed as he handed my a skewer. I blew on it before taking a bite. Mmmmm. I closed my eyes with contentment as I ate. Demi chuckled beside me. I opened my eyes and stared at him. I've never heard him laugh before but now that's twice.
"Your expressions are so versatile." I swallowed and stuck my tongue out at him. Spend a night with a guy and he thinks he can just tease me like that. Rude! Just kidding. I don't really care but I am surprised. I guess it's a trait he got from his mentor. Come to think of it, I never asked who his mentor was.
"Demi, who was the mentor you were talking about?" I stared at him with sparkling eyes. Now that I know who he is I won't bother to mask my curiosity.
"...It was Duke Silvester." He said reluctantly.
Ohhh, I've heard of him! He was known as the sword of the imperial family. During battle, the enemy referred to him as 'The Master of Sword' because of his outstanding swordplay. I think Demi had a nickname too. What was it...'the Dancing Reaper' I think. A little dark but since I've seen him in action I get it. His sword combos are much like a dance and it always ends in fatality. But Duke Silvester...I'm pretty sure he died in the war.
"If it's Duke Silvester...you mean the swordmaster?"
"Yeah. He actually taught me swordsmanship. The title I inherited was actually his but since I'm a prince I'm technically a grand duke." All the laughter had disappeared from Demi's face. I think I made a mistake.
"I'm sorry. It seems I've brought up something I shouldn't have." I looked at him apologetically.
"No it's fine."
I don't really think it is though. We finished our meal in silence and then picked up our things and began our journey.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Demi and Taya get caught in a storm. Taya has a panic attack. Demi calms her down. Taya falls asleep. |
By Erika Whittle
We picked up our pace and managed to arrive in Tal a little before curfew. We checked in with the local guild and explained our situation. Unfortunately they didn't have any spare rooms in the dorm. Demi pulled out his identification card and asked to speak to the head of the guild. I'm not sure what he said but he came back with keys to a small house in the village and two bags of rations. I'm pretty sure they gave us extra because the bags are bigger than what I normally receive. Even under extreme circumstances power trumps all. Or perhaps I'm just jaded and we received more because this village is larger and in better condition than my previous one. I guess the result is good either way.
The house was located on the outskirts of the village. Some people might find that inconvenient but I like the seclusion. There were two bedrooms, a kitchen and a bathroom, all the essentials. There was also a fireplace with a small dining area setup around it. Everything was neat and tidy. It was small but quaint. Aside from Jer's mansion, this is the nicest place I've stayed since entering the orphanage. We set our things in our respective rooms and gathered around the table to eat. Not having energy to cook, we settled for fruit, nuts and cheese.
"What did you say to the guild leader?" I asked between bites.
"I told him who I was and the general situation at the last village. He wants to meet again in the morning and hear more details."
"I see...do you want me to come with?"
"Well, because I told him who I was I think the conversation might get political. Do you really want to deal with that? It might be better for you to explore the town and ask about your sister."
"Yeah I don't do politics. It's really not worth much to orphans...no offense."
"It's not worth much in general but being a war hero does have its advantages. I'm more used to being a soldier than a hunter and right now the hunters need training. I'm going to suggest I fill that role while we're here. Like it or not, you are coming to class. No more hunting until we improve your offense."
"What are you, my dad? ha. You're right about the offense though."
"I'll pretend I didn't hear that first part. Just focus on finding your sister. I'll sort things out with the guild."
Wow, this guy went from silent to drill sergeant real quick. I'm feeling a bit petty about it. I stuck my tongue out at him and then stabbed my fork into an apple slice with a little more force than necessary. Demi smirked. The rest of the meal was uneventful.
Afterwards, we took turns washing up. Demi was a gentleman and let me go first. "Thank you, your royal highness" I teased and then quickly locked myself in the bathroom. I heard what I think was a pillow, hitting the door. I laughed as I turned on the tap to fill the bath. Ahh, this is the best! After relaxing in the warm water, I said goodnight to Demi and headed to bed. It's time for a good long rest. I'll worry about tomorrow when tomorrow comes.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Demi and Taya get caught in the storm and have an unfortunate encounter with some mist. Eventually they are able to continue their jouney |
By Erika Whittle
When the sun rose we made our way into town. Demi left for the guild while I went to look around. The village was fairly active, much more than I'm used to. There were a significant amount of soldiers on patrol. The market was bustling and there were actually kids running around. I heard there were a handful of places that had immediately isolated the tainted at the beginning of the pandemic. I guess this was one of them. Judging by the amount of soldiers it would seem possible.
As I continued walking I noticed that there was more than just the market open. There were about three smithies, all busy, and taverns that had been transformed into family restaurants. There were also taverns open solely for hunters and soldiers. I entered the closest tavern for hunters. It was full with food and alcohol being distributed to each of the tables. My gaping mouth gave me away as a stranger because one of the servers approached and asked if I was new to town.
"Haha, was it that obvious?" I nervously chuckled.
"Pretty obvious," the lady smiled. "But I also heard through the grapevine that a man and a woman arrived at the hunters guild last night. And since I don't recognize your face..."
"Wow, I guess word travels fast in this town."
"Indeed. This town even has an information guild, if you're willing to pay. This town is full of hunters and the guild has turned many away. I doubt there's any room in the dorms. Did you stay at the inn?"
"You guys have an inn? How is this town doing so well? The only thing open in my previous town was the market and people only went if they had to."
"Wait, so you're not at the inn? The guild is letting you stay?"
"Umm, my partner is talking to the guild leader now but last night they let us stay at the little house on the outskirts of town."
"Hmmm, maybe the inn was full. Can't let people who aren't on a mission go around wandering at night. To answer your question, this town has always had a lot of security because it's the last town before hitting the mountains. Anyone who lives up there or is travelling there has to come to this town for supplies. Since bandits frequent the mountains, we have lots of soldiers stationed here. I guess you could say we had a head start in subduing the tainted."
"Ah that makes sense. Umm, since people come here so often I was wondering if you've seen a lady with red hair and green eyes? She would be in her late twenties."
"Red hair...well there is a group who come down from the mountains every month. They always where hooded capes and mostly keep to themselves. But one of them does have red hair and I'm pretty sure it's a woman. They stop at the market and smithy when they come, but they've already been here this month."
I tried to squash my rising excitement. Don't get your hopes up Taya. Red hair is rare but that doesn't make her Tali. "Thank you. Could I get some cornbread to go?" She handed me a paper bag of cornbread. It cost me a silver for the loaf but it smelled so good in there I couldn't leave empty handed. Having accomplished my mission, I made my way back to the house to wait for Demi.
Demi returned a few hours later looking exhausted. He took off his boots and roughly plopped himself down on a chair.
"Umm...did the conversation not go well?" I hesitantly asked.
"It went fine," he sighed. "That man just talks way too much." he said with a scowl.
Oh. I temporarily forgot that personality trait of his. Jeez, he's even grinding his teeth. How much did that man talk? I hesitantly passed over the bag of cornbread. "I bought this at the market. I already ate my share so this is yours. It was a bit expensive but I couldn't resist."
Demi opened the bag and tore off a piece of bread. "Taya, I'm rich."
Wow, he's bragging with such a straight face. I only taste fresh bread in my dreams. "Ok, it's expensive for a pauper."
Demi furrowed his brow. "That's not what I meant. I mean you can buy cornbread everyday we stay here if you want."
He tossed me a pouch of coins and nonchalantly continued eating. My eyes widened. It's not even silver, it's gold. I can't believe he's been carrying this around the whole time. "Are you sure that's okay? This is yours." He nodded. I think I might start tearing up. Fresh bread, everyday! Demi seemed startled by my moved expression.
"Sorry, I normally eat whatever's convenient so I didn't even consider you might want something else. The duchy isn't lacking in finances. Buy whatever you want."
"Thank you. Did you want to go into town with me tomorrow?"
"Well I heard there's a smithy here, and I need a new sword." He pulled out the longsword he had been using. I gasped, his brand new sword looked like it aged twenty years. There was even a thin crack running up the middle. I can't believe that young master gave us such cheap weapons! What a scrouge. But why is Demi making that face?
"I got a little emotional when I killed that mutant. The sword couldn't withstand my aura. The one I lost was specially made for me so this doesn't happen" he said sheepishly.
Oops. I apologized to Jer in my heart. "I saw three smithies. When do we have to go to the guild?"
"Day after tomorrow. We should get a sword made for you as well."
I didn't think that was necessary but I didn't want to waste my breath arguing about it. We exchanged updates about our day and then retired for the night.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Taya and Demi arrive at the village of Tal and are given a small house to stay in. |
By Erika Whittle
Hah, hah, I lay on the ground of the training center, struggling to breathe. I underestimated Demi. He's been going easy on me this whole time. A figure blocked the sun that was beating down on me. Demi stood over me with a towel and canteen. I glared at him as I snatched the bottle and downed the water. Cough, cough
"Careful Taya." He crouched down beside me and helped me sit up so I wouldn't choke. This time I glared with tears in my eyes.
Sigh. "Don't look at me like that. This training is necessary for your survival. Of course I'll try hard so you don't have to use it but you never know."
"Yah, yah I get it", I grumbled at him.
True to his word, Demi fitted me for a new sword and made me attend every class. And I mean EVERY class. The other hunters were taking turns hunting and attending class but not me. Nope, since I have the privilege of being Mr. Drill Sergeant's partner, there's no hunting for me. Only training. And Demi was a training tyrant. So I swung a sword repeatedly in the air for a week. Now it's the second week and I've moved up a level. I get to attack a scarecrow instead. I train separately in a corner like a naughty child in time-out. Yeah me! Apparently everyone else has the basics down. This town has high standards so only good to great hunters are in this guild.
On a side note I understand why Demi insisted that I get a new sword. This sword is lighter and thinner, better suited for my body. Thankfully training is over for the day and now I get to have dinner. Dinner is my favorite part of the day. Demi takes me to a restaurant after training and I get to eat whatever I want. He says I have too much of an appetite after burning all those calories that it’s not worth cooking at home. Well excuse me. It’s not my fault I have a fast metabolism! I’m eating three times the amount I’m used to and still losing weight. It’s his fault! Now I don't feel bad about using his money since he makes me work so hard. Actually the guilt disappeared in the face of daily fresh bread but details. I think it's fair.
Every night after dinner, I sleep like the dead. Demi shakes me awake every morning and we head over to the training center. After another week I finally graduated from the scarecrow. Now Demi is teaching me basic sword combinations. I like this training a lot better since I'm fast and was quite the tomboy at the orphanage. So I took to this part like a fish to water. I even started adding my own stunts; somersault landings, backflips, anything that I could think of that would give me the edge. Of course Demi has a way of stoking my competitive spirit. I think our sessions might be getting a little much because sometimes other hunters stop to watch us as we train. That’s with Demi assigning laps to anyone he catches slacking. Like I said, drill sergeant. Unfortunately I always lose. My little tricks aren't enough to beat technique, but I'm at least going to make him work for it! After the third week, the results of my Spartan training have finally paid off. Now I’m allowed to spar with other hunters. Sometimes I win, sometimes I lose, but considering the skill level of everyone here that is a massive achievement.
I don’t want to admit it but Demi is a good teacher. The other hunters all respect him, referring to him as captain. I’m pretty sure only the guild master knows who he is since this area is so far from the capital. So the captain bit is out of genuine respect and not because of rank. It’s for good reason too. He teaches the main class and then works with every individual according to their needs. The class doesn’t end until he’s assessed everyone’s progress. He could easily make this a permanent job, not that he needs one. Just like that, like the blink of an eye, a month has passed.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Taya and Demi arrive in Tal. Demi talks to the guild leader and Taya talks to a waitress |
By Erika Whittle
Today I had a craving for cornbread, so we're back at the hunter's tavern that I visited when we first arrived. The same server came over to greet us.
"Hello, I haven't seen you guys for a while but I heard that you're settling in here nicely. Everybody's talking about the new captain and his partner." the server said with a smile.
"I'm not a captain." Demi brusquely replied. This guy. Where did he learn his social skills? Maybe I should start giving him a class on how to be friendly.
"They say that because they like you, Demi." I shook my head at the obtuse man.
The server nodded. "He has quite the fan base here. Demi looked embarrassed and I chuckled. "By the way, remember what you asked me about the first day you came here? That woman should be coming to town soon. It's been a month so it's about time for them to stock up on supplies."
Oh my. I can't believe Demi kept me so busy that I forgot about Tali! Feeling slightly guilty, I thanked the server and asked which places they frequented. She said they mostly go to the smithies and to the market. "I'll keep an ear out for you and send someone to the guild if I see them."
I stared at her with a shining look of infinite trust. "Thank you so much!"
She smiled. "It's no problem. My brother is in the guild so I've heard a lot about you two. It's my pleasure to help."
Demi and I completed our meal and then headed back to the guild. I wanted to stop and talk to the Guild Master, so that if anyone came looking for me, I would get notified right away. Normally it's not that easy to talk to somebody so high up but, since he's trying his very best to accommodate Demi, I reap the benefits! I knocked on the office door and, though he looked slightly surprised, he welcomed me in.
"Hi there! I just wanted to let you know that somebody might come looking for me with some information. I was wondering if you could make sure that I meet with them right away when they come?"
"That's not a problem. I'll let the reception know to make it a priority, as well as any team leads who might be loitering around."
"Thank you so much!"
"My pleasure. How are you and Demi liking your stay here?"
"I like it a lot. The village is nice and lively, the food is good, and Demi has really taken to being a trainer."
"Yes, he's quite the valuable asset, so we hope to make you two as comfortable as possible. It would be nice if you two stayed here permanently." He gave me his best customer service smile, clearly hoping for affirmation.
I smiled awkwardly. "Yes, we really appreciate it. Thank you for everything."
A look of disappointment crossed his face. Having guessed that I wasn't going to say anything more, he awkwardly smiled. I quickly left and sighed in relief.
Not two hours later, a messenger came for me. The mysterious lady was in town. Demi saw the messenger and came strutting towards me. I told him that the people I was waiting for had arrived. He insisted on going with me.
"What about your classes?" I asked. I hope he wasn't expecting me to wait.
"Nobody gets upset about a surprise vacation. I'll just end it early. If the woman isn't your sister, it could get dangerous."
"Isn't that what all the training was for?"
We had a silent staring contest until I finally conceded. Quiet people are so stubborn. This man is so overprotective. Demi ended the class and there were mixed reactions; some of excitement and some of disappointment. But what's done is done and Demi had already made up his mind. We immediately left for the market. I searched around and saw some hooded figures in the distance. Our approach seem to startle them.
"Wait up!" I yelled. They paused their retreat. "I'm looking for somebody and I think they might be with you. Do you, perhaps, have a woman with red hair among you?"
"Sorry, we don't," a gruff voice replied.
"Oh, I see. Sorry for bothering you." I gave them a look of fake disappointment. They're definitely lying. As soon as I finish speaking, they promptly left. I looked at Demi. We silently agreed to follow them. Demi took the lead as he was accustomed to this sort of thing. We sneakily drifted behind buildings and finally, I saw her, a woman with red hair. I wanted to approach but Demi held me back. I watched, helplessly, as the group went up the mountain.
"Why did you stop me?!" I accusingly questioned Demi.
"Taya, they lied about the woman. I don't think they would take kindly to your approach. I'll suspend my classes for the time being, and get a map of the terrain. Let's figure out what they're hiding before we approach." I reluctantly nodded my head in agreement.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Taya survives Demi's boot camp and her fighting skills improve |
By Erika Whittle
"I think I found them!" Jer burst through the doors, shouting in excitement.
"You did?!" Brandy popped up from her seat and sped over to Jer like an excited puppy. Derek and Dave came around the corner to see what the commotion was about. "Where are they?" Brandy asked as she bounced around in front of Jer.
"Oy, Brandy! Cut that out! You're not a child." Brandy pouted at Jer's obvious look of annoyance. Derek shook his head and Dave shrugged.
"So, where are they?" Derek quickly inquired, before Brandy could open her mouth again.
"They're in Tal, or at least I'm pretty sure they are. One of their soldiers came to town to visit his mother. I heard him talking about a hunting couple; a man with crazy sword skills and a sprite little woman with short brown hair. Apparently they're the talk of the town."
"Tal...that's the village by the mountain. They don't normally accept new hunters. I'll admit that Demetri is as good as one can get but Taya is a normal hunter. Wait a minute, why are they the talk of the town? What did that guy do?" Brandy, who had calmed down, quickly got fired up again.
"When are you going to let go of that grudge, Brandy? He did save you." a ticked off Jer questioned.
"Why should I let it go?! He didn't save us; he saved his partner. Do you really think he would still step in if Taya wasn't at risk?!"
"BRANDY, SHUT UP!" Brandy froze with wide eyes. Jer stepped back. Even Dave looked startled. Derek quickly closed the distance between himself and Brandy. Then, towering over her, he unleashed all his pent-up frustration. "You're a merchant, Brandy. You didn't participate in the war; you profited from it. My father and elder brother fought in the war. I've heard countless stories, through their letters, of the previous duke and his highness. They always fought on the frontlines, taking the brunt of the enemy attack. They cleared the way for their subordinates behind them. If it weren't for them, we would have lost, and my father and brother would've died for nothing. LAY OFF!" Derek huffed, his breathing heavy from shouting.
"...sorry." Brandy whispered.
Derek sent her one last glare and then hastily left the room. Dave looked alternately between Brandy and the direction Derek retreated. Eventually, he followed after Derek. Jer put his hand on Brandy's shoulder. "You went too far this time, Brandy" he said, gently. "My father and brother also participated in the war, only they were lucky enough to come back alive. His highness wouldn't have let us die." Jer patted her shoulder a couple of times, in comfort, and then left the room. Brandy stayed in the hallway, her head bowed, for a long time.
*******
By dinner time, everyone had calmed down. The atmosphere was sullen, but better than earlier. As they began eating, Jer once again broached the topic of Tal.
Cough, cough, Jer cleared his throat. "We got a little side tracked earlier. What I was going to say is that there's a very good chance that Demetri and Taya are in that village. I heard that the male of the group was training hunters in combat, and that it's on the level of professional battle training. He set the condition that his partner wouldn't be asked to hunt until her skills were on par with the rest of the guild there. As you said before, Brandy, they're incredibly picky about which hunters get to work in that village and the standard is pretty high. That's why I think it has to be them."
"That does sound promising."
"So my question to all of you is; do you want to meet up with them in Tal? Though I talked to the guild leader here and we tried to come up with strategies, to put it plainly, we don't have manpower with the necessary skills to be able to deal with a mutant. Demi is our best shot and if I'm right, he's already taken the initiative to train others."
"So you want to follow them to be on the winning side? Or you want to follow them so that Demi can train us as well?" Derek raised an eyebrow.
"Well, both. Of course I want to be on the winning side, but I also want to be able to rely on my own skills in any situation." Everyone nodded their heads. Dave made a thumbs up gesture.
"Haha, it seems Dave is in favor; and I'll diligently follow my partner." Derek smiled and tapped Dave on the back.
"I will also come," Brandy, who had been silent the whole time, quietly replied.
"Then it's settled. We'll pack the necessary supplies and leave the day after tomorrow."
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: The group await news of Taya and Demi |
By Erika Whittle
There was no way we would complete our quest before the sun went down, so we purchased camping gear. After making arrangements and purchasing essentials from the market, we headed up the mountain. Demi is skilled in tracking, so I followed him as he picked up traces of their path. They were taking a zigzag route up the mountain. We got a third of the way up before we decided to set up camp. I set up the tent and Demi collected wood for the fire. We had just finished when we suddenly heard a noise. We immediately grabbed our swords. Out from the woods came a man with short brown hair and blacked out eyes. Once again, we have encountered a tainted. I stopped Demi before he moved.
"This is a good time for me to practice what I've learned. Just stay back for now and let me handle it."
Demi was reluctant but he agreed. I moved towards the tainted, sword in hand. It's eyes followed my movements. I stopped a little ways away from it but, for some reason, it was just standing still, looking at me. This was abnormal behavior, as a tainted would normally attack anybody who approached. Well if it won't move, I will. I ran towards it, my sword up high. As my blade came down, the tainted caught it with it's bare hand. It's hand was bleeding but it showed no response to the pain. I pushed my sword in deeper, pressing downwards. Blood poured down as I sliced through its forearm. I was about to go for it's head, but then I saw it. Mist was traveling up the wound, healing it as it went along. This wasn't an ordinary tainted. It was a mutant. Wow, I must have the worst luck. What are the chances of running into yet another mutant? I jumped backwards and my mind raced, as I tried to figure out how to deal with it. For some reason, the thing still wasn't moving. It was just watching me. I don't know what it's looking at. It's the freaky looking one, not me! Once again, I ran towards it, planning to go for it's eyes like I did in the last battle. This time it dodged. I pivoted and swung my sword again. I practice the sword combos Demi had taught me, but this damn thing was so good at dodging! Finally I hit it, slicing a long dash across it's chest. It furrowed its brows and out from it's palms, black mist ascended.
Ohhoho, here it comes! It's mist time!!!! I wonder if I can deal with it myself? Maybe I'll try a backflip. I'm kind of excited! At least I was...until a broad back and flaming sword got in my way. This man! He makes me do all that training and doesn't trust me at all! What was the point in all that work if he's still going to jump in front of me?! "Demi! What are you doing? How am I supposed to practice?"
"It started using the mist! Stand back! You can practice with me later." He yelled, as he continued fighting.
Is he serious? He has fire, not mist! Grrrrr. It's so frustrating. But I did as I was told, as this was not the time to be arguing. I sulkily watched Demi's swordplay.
"Look at me, not at her!" Demi growled. He grabbed it's jaw and turned it to face him. Then he slammed the back of it's head against the mountain slope.
Well that's completely unnecessary. If he can grab it's head, then he can chop it off. Is this a test? Am I supposed to be learning something? As I tried my hardest to figure out what I was supposed to be learning, the pissed off mutant had pierced through Demi's shoulder with a tentacle of mist. Then it threw him into a tree.
"Oh shit, Demi!!!" I ran towards him to see if he was okay. Unfortunately the mutant decided it was time for round two. Before I could get there, a large tentacle of mist was already speeding towards him. "Nooo!" I screamed, as I drew my sword as fast as I possibly could. And from my weapon, flew a blade of wind.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Taya and Demi meet the mysterious group from the mountain. They lie about the redheaded girl and Taya and Demi follow their tracks up the mountain. |
By Erika Whittle
* reference to chapter 5
The wind, like a scythe, cut through the tentacle and the mist dissipated. I’m not sure what happened but I changed course. It’s better to kill this damn thing then check on Demi. I wasn’t excited anymore, I was angry. Luckily the mutant was also heading towards me. I sheathed my sword and then I summersaulted towards it. When it’s feet were right in front of me, I quickly pulled out a dagger from my boot and sliced the Achilles tendons. It screamed as it fell to it’s knees. I promptly stuck my dagger in it’s mouth and pushed it all the way through to the back of the skull. The body fell to the ground with a thud. Hah, hah, I tried to catch my breath. Having witnessed a mutant come back from the brink of death before, I pulled my sword out and chopped off it’s head. If it comes back from that, I quit. I pulled my dagger out of it’s mouth and then ran to where Demi lay.
When I got there, Demi’s upper body was leaning against the tree and his eyes were open. I sighed in relief. “Man, I was worried I was going to have to explain to your fiefdom how I got their Lord killed.” Demi had mentioned joking in the midst of war, so I figured I’d give it a try. Well, I was mostly joking. That really would be a bad situation. They’d probably send me to the afterlife to keep him company.
“Haha I’m still alive, I think my pride just died though.”
“Well that’s good. Pride before the fall; it’s a proverb. Shall I help you up or should I join you sitting down?”
“...take a seat. I need to assess the damage. What happened? I saw the tentacle coming towards me but then something stopped it. I passed out for a bit right after.”
“My greatest achievement and you didn’t even see it. Tch. I’ll forgive you ‘cause you’re injured.”
“Thank you, my lady, for your grace” he replied in an equally sarcastic tone.
“...”
“Okay, okay, don’t give me that look. You know the one; don’t pretend. Are you going to tell me what happened?”
“I didn’t give you a look. I’ll tell you if you answer my question first.”
“Seriously? Fine, go ahead.”
“Why did you smash it’s head when you could have just chopped it off and finished it?”
“...haaaaa because I was angry. I was fighting it, yet the thing was so focused on you.”
“Wow, I had no idea you liked attention so much. And from a mutant no less. Your taste is very...unique.”
Demi’s jaw dropped and he stared at me like we weren’t speaking the same language.
“Wha-no, just no. I was worried it would prioritize getting to you over saving it’s own life, okay? I don’t know why these mutants are so fascinated by you!”
“Last time you said you did...” I murmured under my breath.
Demi glared at me. “Are you done?”
“Uhg, so basically you were afraid the mutant would snatch me away and you lost your cool.”
“...something like that.”
Here I was, trying to figure out what the lesson is, meanwhile Demi’s pulling a Dave!* Well whatever, I guess he answered and what’s done is done. So I explained to him about the weird wind blade and my epic moves before killing the mutant...“so basically, a sword is great and all but I think I’m more of a dagger girl” I smugly bragged.
“I’ll keep that in mind. I did find out one thing though, this sword is really good.”
I turned my gaze toward the sword, that despite the flames, still looked brand new. “Well at least you know you got your money's worth.”
We were still sitting on the ground. Demi, having wiggled all ten fingers and all ten toes, found there was nothing seriously wrong. I disinfected his wound with the first aid kit that we had brought and began bandaging his shoulder.
“I don't know about you, but I'm tired.”
Demi expressed his agreement. After getting him all patched up, Demi set a fire and I cleaned up some of the aftermath of the fight. There wasn’t too much damage, but one side of the tent had fallen in when Demi and it were fighting. Luckily it wasn’t broken. I fixed it up and we entered the tent, retiring for the night.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Taya and Demi encounter a tainted in the mountains. Demi is in trouble and Taya tries to save him. |
By Erika Whittle
Having gathered the appropriate supplies, Jer, Brandy, Derek and Dave, loaded up the buggy and set off for the village of Tal. They navigated the dirt roads and found themselves travelling through a heavily wooded area.
"Did you guys hear that?” Derek asked.
“Here what?”
“It sounds like a wounded beast screaming.”
They stopped the buggy and quietly listened to their surroundings. All of a sudden something dashed to the back of the buggy.
“What the-”, Brandy jumped in surprise. A tainted, looking half crazed, was standing before them and baring its teeth at Jer. “Crazy!”
Brandy and Jer both jumped back and reached for their weapons. The creature was still focused on Jer, all the while scratching itself. Long red marks were seen covering its arms, neck and face. It jumped into the air, landing in the buggy, inches away from Jer’s face. Fortunately, both Brandy and Jer have good reflexes. They simultaneously pulled out their swords, crossing them to block the tainted’s approach. Derek jumped out of the driver’s seat, sword in hand, while Dave worked hard to calm the horse. Derek reached the sword high, slicing downwards above it’s head. He split the creature in half in one fell swoop. Brandy and Jer sighed in relief, their hearts racing. But it was too early to feel at ease. All of a sudden the buggy shook. The sound of a horse’s neigh permeated the air. The buggy lurched forward and tilted to the side, toppling over. Free from it’s restraints, the horse ran off.
“Dave! What the hell happened?” Derek shouted. He ran to the front of the fallen buggy, only to see Dave, engaging with yet another tainted. “Brandy, Jer! There’s another one! Get your shit together and come help!”
The tainted had it’s jaws latched onto Dave’s arm, looking just as crazed as the last one. Dave was vigorously punching in its head, yet it refused to let go. Derek approached in an attempt to help his partner, but a backwards kick sent him flying. Bam, Derek crashed into one of the surrounding trees. Jer and Brandy managed to pick themselves up from the wreckage, fortunately with only a few scrapes. By this time, Dave had changed his strategy. Now he was grasping its neck, trying to pull it off his arm. He roared in pain as its teeth ripped off his flesh. He managed to pry it off himself but it was now scratching at his face like a wild cat. Jer and Brandy tried to secure its arms. Brandy managed to grab one and was holding on for dear life. She put all of her body weight in pulling it’s arm back. Jer, unable to secure it’s arm, opted for stabbing it in the side. The creature screamed and black mist pushed all of them back, including Dave. Dave was finally free of its grasp but his face was a bloody mess. Having been clawed at relentlessly, one of his eyes was sealed shut. The crazy thing was screaming, clawing at itself. Jer and Brandy simultaneously lunged towards it. Jer swung his sword towards it’s neck, and Brandy towards it’s ankles. The tainted stopped Jer’s attack, but not Brandy’s. It fell forward, pulling Jer with it. Now on top of Jer, It wrapped it’s arms around his neck. Mist rose as the life began draining from his eyes. Right before Jer ascended to the great expanse, the ground shook. The earth moved, sending spikes of rock through the creature. Jer coughed violently, trying hard to breathe. Brandy took her sword, and removed the skewered creature’s head.
“What was that?” She asked Jer.
“I don’t know, but right before I lost consciousness I felt something, some power, surge through me.”
By this time, Dave had managed to make his way towards them. Brandy helped Jer up, and went to check on Derek. A few moments later, Brandy came back, supporting her limping comrade. “Now what should we do?” Brandy’s voice quivered. She was trying hard not to panic.
“The horse is gone and we need help. We passed some soldiers on patrol a little while back. Brandy, see if you can find them and get help.” Brandy nodded at Jer and then quickly left.
“Well, we’re a rough looking bunch aren’t we?” Derek tried to lighten the mood.
Jer looked at Derek, who clearly had broken bones, and Dave, who was a bloody mess. “What we are, is lacking.” With that statement, the three remained silent until help arrived.
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: The group decide to head to Tal and see if Taya and Demi are there |
By Erika Whittle
We woke up to the sound of birds chirping. I heard a groan beside me. "Are you okay? Is there anything you need me to do?"
"Ugh. Can you help me up please? I think I bled through the bandages..."
Yep. That's blood. I carefully supported Demi's back and noticed more blood on the back of his shirt. "Um, Demi, I think we missed a spot. We'll have to take off your shirt."
Demi's face turned red. "No, if you could just treat me shoulder, that's enough."
I sent him an incredulous look. "Are you kidding? We're in the middle of the mountains! We have to treat everything so it doesn't get infected." Sheesh. Even a child knows that. Yet Demi's face looked like someone just robbed him. "What's the problem? Oh, does it hurt to lift your arm? Should I just cut the shirt off?" His face turned from red to white the longer he listened to me. Uh oh, maybe it's worse than I thought.
After what looked like some inner battle, Demi slowly raised his arms, suppressing a groan. I tried to peel of his shirt as carefully as possible but some of the fibers stuck to the wound. Oh my god, his whole upper body was black and blue. A large scrape was going down the middle, presumably from the tree. "Demi, I think we should head back to the village." I said, with a grim face, staring at his wounds.
"Why? Because of this? I'm fine. I've been in much worse condition and I'm alive and well."
I don't know how to unpack that. I mean, I know he fought in a war but we're not in a war now. Why be stubborn about it when there's other options? There's something wrong with this man's reasoning.
"Demi, we're not at war right now and the mountain isn't going anywhere. We can just wait until they come back down for supplies next month. We might not even need to climb it again if we can figure out a better strategy." I said, as gently as possible.
Demi looked at me in confusion. "Why are we talking about war? I used to get hurt worse in the palace. You know I'm a bastard, right?"
My jaw dropped. I couldn't help it. So it's been like this since he was a child, and that's why he doesn't care about his condition. I knew he faced discrimination, but I had no idea it escalated to such severe abuse. It's not even his fault! People can be so cruel.
"Demi, that's not normal. In fact, it's not even normal in the orphanage. You're not in the palace anymore. You should learn to care for yourself a bit more."
Demi gave me an awkward smile. "...I get it. But I'm really fine. Let's continue."
This stubborn man! I could feel my blood pressure rising. It seems nice and gentle doesn't work for this man! "No." I spoke coldly. "I'm not fine. We're going back down the mountain. I'm not going to spend the rest of my life feeling responsible if something goes wrong. You love strategy, so tell me honestly, is continuing right now the best strategy? Or is pride clouding your judgment?" I gave him the most frigid expression I could muster, preparing myself to further scold him.
The preparation was unnecessary. He acknowledged the truth in my words and apologized for being stubborn. He agreed that this was no longer the best strategy and that we should retreat. I treated his wounds, all of them this time, and bandaged them. After winning the war of words, I packed our stuff. Demi tried to help but I glared at him and pointed at a spot by the fire. He got the message and sat his ass down. When I finished packing, we started our descent.
Two hours later we found ourselves in an unpredictable situation. The group we were trying to follow had surrounded us, with their weapons to our necks. Well, this was not the way I imagined meeting but, I suppose our purpose has been achieved.
"Drop your weapons and raise your hands."
We did as we were told. They removed the weapons from our throats but kept them pointed at us, as two of their people patted us down. They removed the dagger from my boot. From Demi: three daggers, some throwing knifes, two flares, and a smoke bomb were removed from his person. Where on earth was he hiding all that? None of it was in his shirt! I gaped.
"You are the people who stopped us at the village. Why were you following us?"
"Because you lied." I stated simply.
"Whether we lied or not doesn't excuse you stalking us. Where does a little girl like you get off?! What do you want with the redhead?" The man practically growled at me.
Come to think of it, the rude man's voice sounded strangely familiar. A redheaded woman poked her head out from behind the man. Wait, that woman...
"Sister?"
| Author Notes |
Hunter Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Previously: Taya and Demi fight a mutant. Demi gets injured and Taya kills it |
By Erika Whittle
"Taya? Are you Taya?" The woman pulled down her hood and scanned me from head to toe.
"So it is you, Tali. I finally found you!" I wanted to run up and hug her but I was weary of the man beside her.
"Oh my god, you've grown up so much!" There were tears in her eyes. "Ty, lay off. This is the sister I told you about."
"I see." The man pulled his hood down and stared at me. "Hello little sister. As it turns out, we share a nickname." He grinned with squinted eyes.
Yup, I don't like him. Everything about him rubs me the wrong way. He stole my sister and has the audacity to steal my nickname! Tali gave me that name. I glowered at him. Demi put his hand on my shoulder, presumably to keep me from making rash decisions. You know, like punching that smug face! Haa, calm down, Taya. Now's not the time to get amped up. I took a deep breath. "I'm happy to see you again sister. I really want to talk with you, but we encountered a mutant tainted and Demi got hurt. We need to return to the village and properly get it treated." By this time, the whole group had removed their hoods, revealing their faces. At my explanation, all of their expressions turned grim.
"A mutant?"
"Yes...a tainted with greater than average abilities. They use the mist differently and they self-heal."
"I see...and where is this tainted now?"
"Dead in the woods somewhere. I killed it."
"You killed it. That's hard to believe. Don't you mean your partner killed it?"
Demi's hand tightened on my shoulder and I glared at the presumption. "I mean what I said. It doesn't matter if you don't believe it. The point is, we need to return to the village. And you should be careful on your way back to wherever." Grrrr. I really don't like this man. He better not be dating my sister!
"Tyler." Tali gave him a look of disapproval. He just shrugged his shoulders. There's nothing more dismissive than a shrug. Why I oughta!
"Taya, I'll come down to the village next month and talk with you. Where are you staying?" my sister intervened.
"We're staying in the little house at the edge of town. If we're not there, then we're probably at the hunters guild."
"Okay, then I'll see you soon Taya." I narrowed my eyes. I've heard that before. My sister made a face, probably thinking of the same thing I was. "I really mean it this time. If I don't come for you, you'll definitely climb this mountain again, right?" I nodded my head.
Feeling somewhat relieved knowing Tali's whereabouts, we parted with my sister's group and returned to the village. We made it there just as the sun was setting. It was too late to find a doctor but I informed Demi that he was seeing one whether he liked it or not, tomorrow. Guilds typically have doctors on hand, given the nature of the work. We were both disgusting, covered in dirt and sweat. I told Demi to washup first, afraid that the grime would cause an infection. He knew better than to argue. I asked if he needed help but he just gave me a dirty look. I really don't think I deserved that. When he finished, I bathed and hopped into bed. I was filled with thoughts of Tali, but my eyelids were heavy and I eventually fell asleep.
*************
A month has passed. Because of Demi's injuries I started helping with his class, doing the demonstrations the doctor had forbid. He wasn't happy about it but I told him to just be good and listen for once. He looked kind of betrayed but it's in his best interest. Boys. They think they're invincible. Anyways, I actually learned a lot being Demi's stand in. As far as I'm concerned, this arrangement is mutually beneficial. As I was demonstrating the proper way to land, I heard a commotion coming from the main building.
"I'm telling you, it doesn't matter, you can't come in!"
"Just let us speak to them! We've worked with them before; they know us!"
"Do you know how many people claim to know the captain, just to sneak into his class?! I'm not falling for it! If he was expecting you, he would have said so!" Hmph
"I told you we should have sent a message!"
Curious about all the shouting, and the somewhat familiar voices, I gave the class a ten minute break. Demi and I made our way towards the noise.
"Hey! Demetri, it's us! Tell these people you know who we are."
"Brandy!" the growling voice of Derek was heard.
Demi and I looked at the confrontation before us, taken aback. Demi had a grim face but nodded at the staff to let them in.
"See, I told you!" Brandy sassed the staff who had prevented her entry. Jer promptly covered her mouth before she could make more enemies.
"What are you guys doing here?" Demi asked, his face composed. But I knew, he wasn't exactly happy. Apparently everyone else picked up on that as well, everyone except for Brandy.
Having escaped Jer's grasp, Brandy enthusiastically answered.
"We came to see you guys! I can't believe you ditched us!"
Wow, it's like she totally forgot she started a fight. I'm not sure if that's just brazen, or a skill. Demi furrowed his brow and Jer smacked his own forehead. Dave and Derek just stared at her, like it wasn't worth intervening. I decided to talk before Demi could say anything against social etiquette.
"We didn't exactly ditch you. The job was done and since there was a disagreement, we left." I tried to sound as diplomatic as possible. I could feel myself starting to sweat; this wasn't my forte.
"...right. Well-"
"We were worried because of that storm, so when I heard of a pair that sounded like you guys, I told everyone, and here we are." Jer hastily interrupted. I guess I wasn't the only person worried about what their partner would say. Derek has it the best. He will never have this problem.
"Haaaa, come in for now. I'm teaching a class so you either participate or get out." Demi gave an ultimatum.
"We'll participate!" Jer quickly replied before Demi could change his mind.
"Hold up. Dave, what's with the eye patch?" Instead of answering, the four of them looked at each other as if deciding what to say.
"We encountered a bit of trouble about a month ago." Derek reluctantly explained. Okay...but why are they being so weird about it? I looked at them with narrowed eyes. That's when drill sergeant Demi butted in.
"Okay everyone, get into position!" Demi called everyone to attention. The lesson continued with Demi barking orders and me, demonstrating. Once the training was over, we headed over to the hunter tavern to talk.
"Taya, captain," our usual server greeted us. "Who are your friends?"
"Umm, former colleagues" I answered. Brandy seemed disappointed by the distant title but it's not like we're friends.
"I see. The usual?" Demi and I nodded. "And for you four?"
"We'll just have some stew and bread."
"The bread here is really good." I informed them, after Jer had finished ordering.
"Tch. You love bread so much." Demi shook his head at me.
"Don't judge. It's not my fault your tastebuds are dead."
"Wha- my tastebuds are not dead. I'm just not a foodie like you!"
The server came back while Demi and I were still bickering. She set the food on the table. "By the way, Taya, those people from before are back." I swiftly turned my head and saw my sister and Tyler in their signature hoods. Holy crow, it's been a month already! I frantically waved so they wouldn't ignore me. If they run away, I really will chase them up the mountain this time! Maybe I could ask Dave to carry me on his back; his quads are huge. Thankfully, that was unnecessary, as they had begun to make their way towards us.
"Tali, you came!" my voice expressing pure joy. I know she said she would but there was always that chance...let's not think about it. She's here now.
"Haha, I told you I would."
I smiled wide, as my sister bent down to give me a hug. Then, I heard the astonished voice of Jer. "Tyler?"
Now what's going on?
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Taya�?�¢??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Previously: Taya and an injured Demi make their way down the mountain. They end up surrounded by the people they were following |
By Erika Whittle
"Jeremy? What are you doing here?" Tyler questioned in an almost accusing tone.
"I could ask you the same question, wait a minute, I did!"
"You too know each other?" I alternately looked at Jer and Tyler. Actually...they look quite similar.
"They're brothers" Demi kindly answered my question. "So it was you, Tyler Aarden. You were so disrespectful I thought I was seeing an apparition."
"...it looked like you were role playing with the little girl. Should I address you formally?"
"...leave it."
I don't know what they're talking about but I'm not a little girl! Role playing? What's up with this guy? Jer's brother has a personality problem. Yikes! That face. Demi looks like he's going to punch someone. You can't! That shoulder's not healed; punch him later. As the commentary in my mind continued, my sister spoke up.
"Why don't you guys finish eating first? We'll gather the supplies we need and then meet you at the house, Taya. Is that all right?"
I looked at Demi, who nodded. "Sounds good. See you in a little bit." I waved goodbye to my sister. Jer tried to stop his brother from leaving but he just told him that they'd talk at the house. Dave, Derek and Brandy looked both confused and intrigued. Demi prompted everyone to start eating. We inhaled our food and then made our way back to the house.
"This is where you guys are staying? Wow, you're sure getting the royal treatment." I felt like Brandy's words had thorns. Jer elbowed her in the side.
"So I guess you returned to the dorms then?" I asked.
"No. We're staying at Jer's mansion." Derek replied, sending a judgmental glance at Brandy. I stared at her too. Who's talking to whom about royal treatment? Tch. Brandy's face turned red. At least she has enough sense to be embarrassed.
"Enough about that. Why is my brother here? And who's the redhead?"
"The redhead is my sister, Tali." All four of them looked me up and down. "Step-sister," I clarified. Understanding filled their eyes. I know we don't look alike but she's still my sister. I grew irritated. I'm rather sensitive about this topic. It brought back bad memories.
Eventually Tali and Tyler arrived at the house. They set their luggage down, and realizing there wasn't much furniture, sat on the floor. Demi followed them with his eyes like a calculating predator. Tyler looked uncomfortable but Tali was unbothered. Before I could say anything, Jer stole my thunder.
"Explain." He said, glaring at Tyler.
"Haaa, explain what exactly?"
"Explain what? You just up and disappeared. How about you start there!" The normally composed Jer turns into an angry teen whenever he talks with his brother.
"...I came across some dangerous information and thought it best to leave. Rather than my disappearance, I'm more interested in his highness' presence here. I heard a rumor that you disappeared shortly after heading north, yet here you are, perfectly fine. Well, maybe not perfectly." Tyler smirked. Demi simply stared at him.
I wanted to talk to my sister, but these thoughtless men were having a standoff! Jer was sending accusing glares at Tyler. Tyler was focused on Demi. And everyone else was focused on the three of them. "Enough." I said, wholly unimpressed. "Demi, you go first. Then Tyler." I crossed my arms and waited. Demi gave me a look but conceded.
"...At the start of the pandemic I started wandering around the kingdom."
My sister looked at him incredulously, "Wait, you left your fiefdom in the middle of a pandemic? That's so irresponsible!"
Demi turned to her, clearly unimpressed. "Haaaaaaa, just like people avoid the north, apparently so does the mist. There is no pandemic in my fiefdom. Also very few people know I actually left. The north doesn't welcome strangers. Despite my efforts, they were unwilling to accept me. So instead of wasting my time trying to win over the public, I won over the aides and vassals instead. Then I appointed a 'proxy' to be my face while I handled everything in the background."
"Oh." My sister blushed. "But if you're here, how do you know that's still the case? Perhaps your 'proxy', can't reach you. Correspondence has slowed down here." Though embarrassed, Tali seemed unwilling to relent. Why is everyone so aggressively against Demi? I suddenly understood there were multiple reasons why Demi hid his identity.
"The information guild- I own it."
"Wait, what? You own the information guild and you never told me? I even told you I was looking for my sister; how could you keep that from me?" I exclaimed, smacking him on the arm in a fit. Demi held up his hands in a defensive posture, looking wronged.
"Hold up Taya, I didn't tell you because I didn't want you to get your hopes up! I did ask my subordinates to check it out. Unfortunately your sister hid rather well. I didn't have any more information than what you had already gathered. I only know where she was before she disappeared, not after."
"Disappeared from where?" I looked at Demi, who looked at my sister, who was avoiding eye contact. My face hardened. "Tali, you can tell me or Demi can tell me. Choose."
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Previously: Tyler, Tali, Jer, Brandy, Derek and Dave all arrive in Tal. |
By Erika Whittle
“Shortly after leaving you at the orphanage, mother remarried a count. He took us to the capital and began to educate me on noble etiquette and liberal arts. He said it was necessary in order for me to find a good match. Since language was a part of the curriculum and I like history, I decided to learn the ancient language. Eventually I asked the count if he could get me a job in the royal library, under the pretense that I could make connections and study at the same time. He agreed. The royal library had a section for books and manuscripts written in the ancient language. Hardly anyone goes there because most people don’t see any merit in learning a dead language. When I wanted to be alone, I would read there.”
“That’s where she met me” Tyler picked up the story. “Before the war, Duke Silvester had asked my father permission to approach me for a favor. He said the imperial family was carelessly playing with things they shouldn’t. At the time, my father didn’t think it was worth the risk and he denied the duke’s request. But when the war started, things changed. My father saw first hand the incompetence of the monarchy. He told Silvester that should we return alive, he would help him. Unfortunately the duke died and we never heard the full story. But he told my father enough that I knew where to start looking. So I asked Tali if she could find anything related to the mage wars. I had access to the library but I can’t read ancient language.”
“And I found them,” Tali continued. “There weren’t a lot of references but there were a few. I put them aside and began translating the ones with relevant information. That’s when I realized this wasn’t some light reading. The mage wars took place before the current kingdom was established. Back then, the use of magic was the norm. But a group of mages thought they were better than humans without magic. They tried to kill off the regular humans and start a new race with only mages. They practiced forbidden spells that required sacrifices. Eventually, the mages who did not agree with their radical views rose up against them. This started the mage wars. There were certain family lines that used elemental magic. The current royal family is one of those families. There were also wind, water and earth elementals. They banded together with the good mages, to seal the ones practicing forbidden arts. They nominated the head of the fire elementals to lead the people and to guard the seal. This was the first royal family of Arrs. Unfortunately for the rest of the mages, people were now afraid of magic. Many families that were made predominately out of mages chose to relocate to a country without such negative stigma. Of the few that remained, they chose to work for the imperial family. A few more generations passed and magic was no longer the norm. Mages began sealing their magic so as not to face discrimination.”
“The secret was passed down within the royal family. When the current king took the throne, he became worried that people would revolt. It had been many generations since the last aura user, so weren’t the royal family just regular people now? He was paranoid that other nobles would realize that there was no longer anything special about the current royal family and that a different family could easily fill the role. So he started experimenting on the seal. Later, when he realized his favored son had nothing to offer but his lineage, the king got reckless. The seal eventually broke and the crazed souls of the already depraved wizards were released. Since their bodies were long gone, the souls resemble black mist. The irony is that the King’s favorite son was the first to become tainted. I heard that he might not actually be dead but instead locked up.”
There was dead silence after Tyler finished the tale. There was so much information to process. The mist that had taken over people’s bodies turned out to be the souls of ancient wizards. And the royal family is to blame for unleashing them on us. After that, they explained how they had fled the capital, with the manuscripts, under the cover of night. Tyler had left a note with his father but Tali left without a word to anyone. Eventually they travelled here and discovered a group of people hiding in the mountains. They were people either somehow related to the pandemic or political enemies of the current king. They decided to band together in an attempt to put an end to the madness.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Previously: Jeremy demands an explanation for Tyler's disappearance. New information is revealed about Demi. |
By Erika Whittle
“This is so crazy. Did the records go into detail about how the wizards were sealed in the artifact? I imagine sealing souls is a little different than sealing magic.” Brandy inquired with an uncharacteristically grim expression.
“No it didn’t. But it did list the family lines of the mages who stayed in the kingdom. We traced the genealogy and were lucky enough to find a family line that still exists...one with a mage.”
“It seems you have a plan, Tyler. How can I help?”
“You mean, how can we help?” I corrected Demi, and the others nodded their heads in agreement.
“...you really didn’t know any of this, your highness? You and Silvester were close.” Tyler looked skeptically at Demi.
“...he probably didn’t want to add more to my plate.” Demi frowned. “I was sent to the war to die and Silvester was trying his hardest to keep me alive. He offered to take me north with him when the war ended. Perhaps, if he lived, he would have told me then. At least, I would like to think so.” Demi had a forlorn look in his eyes that was rather heartbreaking.
“I see...I’m sorry for suspecting you.” Tyler bowed his head to Demi.
“It’s fine. I would’ve also been cautious, had I been in your place.” Despite his words, Demi wore a complex expression. I guess logical understanding doesn’t negate feelings. I feel bad for him.
“We have a hideout in the mountains. It would be best to explain the rest there.” We nodded and made plans to go up the mountain first thing tomorrow. Demi let the guild know that we would be leaving for an uncertain amount of time. He tried to return the keys to the house, but the guild master insisted we keep them for now. He probably wanted something to tie us here. Tyler and Tali had already gathered the supplies they needed. The six of us went to the market to gather our own necessities. Jer was noticeably quiet. While everyone was packing and getting ready, Demi grabbed my arm and guided me to his room. Then he called Tyler. I guess he wanted a private conversation, because as soon as Tyler entered, Demi shut the door.
“Now be honest with me, Tyler. The people you allied with, do you really trust them or is it an alliance based solely on a common enemy?”
“...Does it matter?”
“It does. I won’t bring Taya to a place filled with hidden intentions. Not when I could ask Tali for the necessary information without the added risk.” I looked at Demi. He does have a point. We don’t know their numbers, and quite frankly, the only one I trust is Tali. Though I would like to prolong our re-union, sometimes people are more dangerous than monsters. There’s no need to take unnecessary risk.
“I noticed this before, but you’re very protective of your partner. Are you two dating?” I felt my face turn beet red. Demi’s face remained stoic but the tips of his ears were ever so slightly pink.
“No...we’re partners. You seem to have forgotten what happened to my last partner, and in such a short amount of time too. I believe it was just yesterday that we were talking about it.” Demi quietly replied in the most aggressively sarcastic tone I had ever heard from him. He must be talking about Silvester.
Tyler looked away, as he should. This guy really knows how to upset my partner. “There is a mixture of both. I understand where you’re coming from, but there’s a specific reason why you have to come with us. At the hideout...there’s a mage.” Well, that was unexpected. These boys all drop bombs without changing expressions. I wonder if that’s a guy thing?
“...fine. Taya, from now until we return, stay right beside me.” I nodded, not wanting to upset anymore of Demi’s emotions. He looked a little unstable. I wonder if Silvester’s death gave him a sort of trauma? That would be completely understandable.
The three of us left the room and returned to the group. They sent us questioning looks but we didn’t say anything. We trekked up the mountain, making fairly good time. This is definitely easier than following someone’s trail. Tyler informed us of a shelter located partway up the mountain. Having a guide is the best! The shelter was about the same size as the house we were staying in. A little more rugged, that’s all.
We lit a fire in the fireplace and pulled out jerky and trail mix for dinner. I miss the cornbread already. The girls piled into one room for the night and the guys used the other room and the dining area. Derek and Dave, with their large frames, preferred to sleep on the floor rather than share a bed. Jer and Tyler were left with the bedroom, you know, since they’re brothers. Demi...was wrestles. He went outside, leaned against a rock, and surrounded himself with a circle of blue flames. I hesitated but ultimately decided to approach him.
“Demi,” I quietly called his name.
“Taya?” he snapped out of his reverie and looked at me in surprise. I stood about a foot away from his flames.
“You can step over them. They respond to my will so it won’t harm you.”
I nervously moved forward. It’s not that I don’t trust Demi. It’s just instinct to not want to walk through fire. I gathered my courage and crossed through the fiery circle. It was amazing. The flames weren’t even hot. I looked at it with a sense of wonder and ran my hand through the flames once again. Demi chuckled. I looked up, slightly embarrassed, and stopped playing around. Demi’s eyes were filled with amusement. I went and sat crossed legged beside him. We sat in comfortable silence for a while.
“Aren’t you tired, Taya? We have another long day of walking tomorrow.”
“Hmmm, well my body is tired but my mind isn’t.” Demi nodded in understanding.
“But you should try and sleep anyways. You’ll regret staying up in the morning.”
“Yah, you’re right. It’s just...are you okay?”
Demi tilted his head as if to ask me what I was talking about.
“It’s just, you’ve felt slightly off since meeting up with Tyler. Did you guys fight a lot in the past?”
“Haha, no, the opposite. We grew pretty close. Tyler is a skilled fighter. We often worked in the same group. He and his dad were part of Silvester’s inner circle, and no one could approach me without Silvester’s permission. Like I said, he was trying hard to keep my alive.”
“You really cared about Silvester, huh? And it sounds mutual. But if you guys got along, why is it so awkward now? You already explained that you didn’t know about what your father was doing.”
“Trust is a funny thing Taya. It’s hard to build but can be easily broken. Politics, well, it’s like entering a den of snakes and trying not to get bit. It puts people on edge. When stakes are high, it’s to your advantage to keep your cards close.”
“Does it bother you?”
“I’d be lying if I said it doesn’t...but it’s what I was born into. For as long as I exist, politics will be a part of my life, and the subsequent consequences. It’s better to not take it to heart.”
“Yah, I see what you’re saying, but Demi, the heart can’t be controlled. Even if you logically understand, it’s okay to feel sad.”
Demi pulled me into a hug. “For a bit, please stay like this.” I wrapped my arms around him and stroked his back. After a while, I went back inside and went to bed. My mind was filled with many thoughts, but my eyelids won in the end.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Previously: Tali and Tyler explain the mage wars and the secret of the mist. |
By Erika Whittle
Early the next morning we resumed our journey. It took about another six hours. We only encountered a tainted once, but it was normal and relatively weak. Tyler killed it before the rest of us even moved. His swordsmanship was impressive. Much like Demi, there was no wasted movement and it was designed to kill. I know he was a soldier but since he’s also a noble, and noble swordsmanship is a bit more showy, I thought he would retain some of the noble aesthetic. But nope; if he ever was like that it was clearly long gone. Eventually we reached the opening to a large cave. “Here it is.” Tyler said, as he lead the way inside.
“Tyler, Tali.” A young man with sand colored hair, greeted. “I thought you were just meeting Tali’s sister? What’s with all the people?” He asked, narrowing his eye. I recognized him from last time. He was the man who lied to me in the village. I squinted my eyes back at him.
“This is my brother and his group,” Tyler pointed to Jer.
“What is this? A family reunion? Why’d you bring them here!”
“Relax, Trent. All of them are hunters. Don’t we need the help? In this case, family is the best option.” Demi’s face distorted at those words but he remained silent. Brandy seemed pretty relaxed about the whole thing but Derek and Dave were clearly on edge. Jer...well his attention was completely focused on Tyler.
“Huh, fine. But they’re your responsibility Tyler. We made an exception for Tali’s sister, but this, I didn’t agree to.”
“I get it. I’ll keep an eye on them. There won’t be any problems.” The man nodded and we followed him to where a fairly large group of people were waiting. There were tents and all sorts of equipment. They basically made the cave into a small village. It was a pretty ingenious hideout. The people were observing us with suspicious gazes. Some out-right frowning. One man in particular had zoned in on Demi, practically staring a hole in his face. Demi raised an eyebrow.
“I might have been here for while, but there’s no way I don’t recognize such a high profile person.” The man with the staring problem said.” Demi just crossed his arms and stared back, as if to say ‘what of it’.
“Haaaaa”, Tyler ran his hand through his hair, looking exasperated. “This is his highness, Grande Duke Demetri Von Arstine.” There were gasps and wide eyes at the revelation.
“Why would you bring a member of the royal family here?!” One lady shrieked.
“That’s right!”
“What were you thinking!”
Hostile voices expressed their discontent. I mean, I get it, but I’m still ticked off. Besides, wasn’t it widely known that Demi didn’t get along with his family? Even I had heard of it. My scowl was getting more and more pronounced. My sister grabbed my hand, as if to reassure me, but my expression didn’t loosen.
“Enough.” Demi finally spoke. “This isn’t why I came here, Tyler. Where’s the mage?” Demi blurted out. Everyone stared at him with wide eyes and hanging mouths. Everyone except for me and Tyler, who had simultaneously smacked our own foreheads with our hands. Ahhh! Why can’t you be a little subtle Demi! Tyler told us in private for a reason! I sent him an accusing look but he just shamelessly shrugged his shoulders.
“Tyler! I can’t believe you told him that! How could you brazenly talk about our trump card without discussing with us first!” Trent had gotten in Tyler’s face and grabbed his collar. Meanwhile Tyler was looking past him and glaring at Demi.
“I’m sorry, but now you definitely won’t be able to leave this place.” A man swiftly came up to Demi and put a sword to his throat. He moved so fast I didn’t even see where he came from. Yet Demi, this crazy guy, just smirked like he found the whole thing amusing!
“Taya, step back.” I looked up at him but he just nodded like everything was fine. I went to the side to stand by Tali, nervously biting my nails. Tali put her arm around my shoulders but I was entirely focused on Demi.
In a flash, Demi kicked the man’s stomach, pushing him back. The guy caught himself and they alternated pivoting and crossing blades. Sparks flew whenever metal made contact with metal. It took maybe, five minutes, before Demi was kneeling on the man’s chest with his sword at his throat. His left foot pinned his opponents sword arm. Applause was heard from the back of the crowd.
“Bravo, bravo! The speed! The agility! The decisiveness! Simply marvelous!” The crowd parted and out came a boy, maybe five or six, with ash hair and shining gold eyes. “I’ve heard a lot about you, your highness, and you live up to that reputation.” The little boy smiled. “My name is Creed, the last mage of the Brantford family.”
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Previously: Demi confronts Tyler about the need to follow him. Tyler confesses there's a mage in his party. The group follow Tali and Tyler up the mountains. |
By Erika Whittle
We all stared, wide eyed, at the little boy who introduced himself as a mage. Is this a joke? Demi got up from his opponent and moved beside me. He wearily observed the little boy.
“Don’t look at me like that! I’m not going to do anything suspicious.”
“A child?” I blurted out.
“I’m older than I look.” Says the kid who’s pouting. “I sealed my magic in the artifact, it stunted my growth!” The kid insisted. From where I stand, it sounds like the tantrum of a child. No, even if Tyler’s dumb, Tali isn’t. She wouldn’t just believe the kid without proof. I looked at my sister, whose judgment I trusted.
“He really is a mage, Taya.” The little mage kid hmphed me and turned his head away. I must have lost my touch. Children used to like me.
“If you sealed your magic then how are you supposed to use magic to seal the mist?” Demi asked.
The kid smiled. “As expected of a skilled mage! You ask the right questions!” The kid clapped, seemingly delighted.
“...I’m not a mage.”
“You’re not a regular mage but aura users are a specific type of mage. And that is how we’re going to do it. You will unseal my magic. Then I can use all the magic previous generations stored away to re-seal the mist!”
“If the mist is made of the souls of wizards, how do we know you won’t suddenly change sides?” Derek asked, clearly skeptical.
“I’ll answer that,” Tyler chimed in. “The answer is simple. He would be the first to die. The wizards were corrupt when they were alive. After hundreds of years, their souls have deteriorated even more and they’re now crazed. They aren’t thinking like mages. They’re searching for food to sustain themselves.”
“For food?”
“Yes, and on the menu is magic power. You mentioned that the mutants were interested in Taya. And that the crazy tainted my brother came across, was interested in him. That’s because they would perceive your aura as food. Demi has control over his aura so he’s off the menu. Taya has stronger aura then Jer so they would think her the most delectable.”
“Why is my aura stronger?”
“Bloodlines, probably.” This time the answer came from Demi. I raised an eyebrow. “I might not have known about the tainted but I do know something about aura. Silvester gathered all the books he could find on the subject. When I first entered the Arstine Fiefdom, I was amazed. The architecture, the infostructure, everything was made of ice. And it was beautiful, even more so then the capital. I had no idea how such a thing could be created. That was until I began to read the books in his study. Honestly, his private collection could rival the royal library, maybe not in quantity but in information. He had hundred of books: ancient scripts, domestic and foreign politics, foreign military strategy, ancient military strategy. Among them was the history of magic and aura users. When magic began to disappear, elementalists also began to dwindle. The royal family secretly hunted down the known elementals in order to protect their status. They didn’t want anyone who could threaten the throne to remain. Silvester was a water elemental; he just kept it secret and never used it outside of his land.”
“The vassals actually told you that?” Tyler asked in surprise.
“Haha, no. Even if I earned their respect I’m still from the capital, a royal no less. I found Silvester’s diary. In it he talks about his abilities, as well as the ability of a wind user named Claude. He also mentions feeling a resonance when we met. A few more meetings solidified his suspicions that I was also an aura user.”
“My father’s name is Claude.”
“Wait, is that why he took such great care of you?”
Tyler and I spoke simultaneously. Of course, Demi responded to me first!
“Then your abilities make sense, Taya. And he may have initially stuck around for that reason. But as I read more it became apparent that he genuinely cared of me. For that, I’m grateful.”
Tyler and I both nodded. Tali turned to me. “So you can use the wind ability as well?” She seemed pretty surprised about that. But since I recently awakened and was just a normal child when we were together, I guess that makes sense.
“Yah, but I only found out recently. Remember when I said I killed a mutant? That’s when I found out.”
“Oh that makes sense! I was wondering how Demi ended up so banged up but you, who claimed to kill it, were perfectly fine.” Tyler looked like he discovered the answer to the universe’s deepest secrets.
“I didn’t kill it with the wind ability. I killed it with a dagger.” I responded in annoyance. Demi patted my head. This stupid man pushes all my buttons! I can’t believe he and Demi were friends.
“Aura responds to the emotions of it’s user. It awakened when I was about to die. I got...careless. I taught Taya some military swordsmanship and she’s a natural. Don’t belittle her.” Tyler started grumbling under his breathe and I made faces at him. Tali laughed.
“No matter how old, you’re still a child,” she said between chuckles.
“I’m not a child! He’s just annoying!” Jer sent me a look of understanding. Ugh. I hope we don’t bond over his annoying brother. Tyler coughed, looking embarrassed.
“Anyway, I guess Silvester didn’t know about my family lineage.” Tyler mused.
“You mean OUR family lineage,” Jer interrupted. “I guess I inherited that power, unless you also can move earth?” Jer questioningly looked at Tyler.
“...no, I can’t. Creed told me about our family roots so when I heard tainted were drawn to you I put two and two together.”
“Wait, so you can also use aura? When did that happen?” I asked Jer. I’m surprised Brandy hadn’t blurted that out yet.
“About a month ago...the first time we attempted to come to Tal. It didn’t go well, hence Dave’s eye patch.” Dave frowned add touched his face. I wanted to ask more but I don’t want to upset him when the memory is still fresh.
“Okay, so the three gifted are going to help the little mage kid right? What are us laymen supposed to do?” Derek spoke up.
“Well of course you have to do your part, since you heard everything.” Trent gave a nasty smirk. “You’re coming with us to kill some people; the imperial guard to be specific.”
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Previously: Demi gets in a scuffle. The mage is revealed. |
By Erika Whittle
“The imperial guard?” Brandy asked in disbelief. “Why them?”
“Because, my dear, the original seal is in the palace and we need to use the same one. Hundreds of mages helped to create it; it can be repaired but not replaced.” Creed explained. It was weird to see a child yet hear words spoken like an old man.
“Ha,” Demi laughed. “So, home sweet home.”
“Well, yes. The imperial family needs to change anyways. You’re a prince, you’re simply taking your place a little early.”
“...I don’t think it was ever my place. So if we manage to reseal all these wayward souls, what happens to people who are possessed?”
“Hmmm, well there’s no way to know for sure. It could be that consciousness is suppressed or it could simply be gone. It’s hard to know since magic is involved and the dark wizards practiced forbidden magic, so that’s also a factor.” Creed mused.
“At any rate, Creed and the aura users will deal with the seal and the rest of us will make sure they can focus on their job.” Tyler butt in.
“Hmmmm, training re-starts then.” Demi stated with a rather sadistic glint in his eyes. I have a feeling I’m going to miss my scarecrow. “I’ll take the aura users. Tyler should be able to handle the rest.”
“Let’s start in the morning. It’s late, you guys should get settled.” Saved! Tali’s the best!
We claimed an empty corner and rolled out sleeping bags. Dinner was dried fruit and nuts. I was so tired, despite the precarious surroundings I fell asleep right away. In the morning, somebody passed around boiled eggs and coffee. No sooner had we finished eating, Demi and Tyler announced the start of training.
“Okay. Taya, Jer, you two follow me. The rest will follow Tyler.”
We moved into our respective groups. About half of the people in Tyler and Tali’s group also followed for training, including Trent. I’m guessing the rest have some other role, to which we’re not yet privy. Demi lead Jer and I into a more secluded spot in the woods.
“Alright, this will be a different type of training. You two need to learn how to feel and control your aura. Aura responds to your heightened emotions so it’s easy to lose control if you’re upset. First off, I want both of you to recall the time you manifested. Focus on what you were feeling at that exact moment.”
Beside me, Jer donned a look of extreme concentration. I cleared my mind and thought about that moment in the woods. I remembered the panic and helplessness I felt when I realized I wouldn’t get to Demi on time. I felt something overflow within me. From the deepest recess of my heart, it flowed out. Wind began to flow around me. When it started to intensify, Demi told me to stop. I wasn’t sure how to do that but I focused on his voice until my pulse slowed down. It seemed to work and the wind slowly dissipated.
“Good work. Now rather than focusing on the emotion, try and focus on the resonance you felt within. You must have felt the power seep from somewhere, focus on that.”
I furrowed my brow. This seems much harder. While I tried to figure out how to draw out my power without the emotional stimulus, Demi focused his attention on Jer.
********
What was I feeling at that time? I recalled the moment when I almost joined my ancestors in their resting place. The fear, the confusion, and the regrets that surfaced from within me, all came rushing back. Stuck in my reverie, the ground beneath me began to shake. It started as a small tremor and escalated into the beginnings of an earthquake. The shaking earth reflecting my shaking heart.
“Jeremy!” Demi shook me awake. The tremors stopped. Demi and Taya in the background, were both looking at me in concern.
“S-sorry”, I stuttered.
“Jeremy!” Tyler came running from the other side of the woods. I blinked a few times, still feeling somewhat out of place. It was almost like having an out of body experience. I was aware of the people around me, the circumstances, the scenery but I felt disconnected from it all; like it wasn’t my experience but that of a third party. Tyler stood before me, gasping for breath. “What happened? Are you okay? Demi, what did you do to my brother?” Tyler raged. Tyler grabbed Demi by the collar and started shaking him. I heard Taya yelling at him to stop. My body moved before my mind. I firmly grabbed Tyler’s arm. The three stopped and stared at me.
“Jer, are you all right?” Taya asked with a voice filled with concern.
I gave her a small smile. “I’m fine, I just lost myself for a moment.”
Taya nodded in understanding. “I get it. Emotions take on a life of their own with this power it seems.”
“Indeed.” I was grateful to her for relating, even if she didn’t lose control like I did.
“Tyler, it’s not his highness’ fault. Let him go.” Tyler’s armed dropped.
Demi clapped his hand on my shoulder. “The first time I manifested, my flames devoured almost all of the enemy soldiers. A part of myself wanted it, but the majority of me was just grieving the death of my friend. Even now, I sometimes lose control when my emotions are heightened. From now on we’ll work on the feeling of the power flowing through you, rather than the emotions that sparked it.”
I nodded. His highness is truly admirable; mostly stoic but compassionate when necessary. Only around Taya does he break out of that mold. Well, I guess Brandy brings out some unexpected things in me sometimes. Maybe that’s just what partners do. Even Dave and Derek have a deep understanding of each other, without being able to conventionally converse. As I mused over partner dynamics, Tyler approached. I studied his face and knew he wasn’t about to go back anytime soon. I sighed. Demi seemingly came to the same conclusion. “Lets take a break. I’ll work with Taya. Perhaps you two should have a private conversation. I nodded and my brother and I walked into the woods together. After about ten minutes I figured we were far enough away to talk. It wasn’t going to be a long conversation anyways.
“I’m really fine Tyler. You don’t need to fuss. And you should apologize to his highness. He’s been nothing but helpful, yet you continuously antagonize him. Have you forgotten that you’re alive today because of him?”
Tyler sighed, “I haven’t forgotten. But this is different from the war. There’s no one who could stop Demi if he were to turn on us. He has more than enough reason to hate the kingdom.”
I looked at my older brother, who was once my idol, with disgust. “So you trust a bunch of strangers and an unknown mage more than you trust someone you shed blood with? That’s messed up Tyler. Demi’s never demonstrated any animosity towards the kingdom. If anything he’s incredibly indifferent. But he saved my life and I value loyalty, even if he didn’t expect anything in return.”
“You didn’t see Demi after Silvester’s death. It’s like everything human about him died with Silvester. Maybe he’s softer now because of Tali’s sister, but what if something happens to her? Creed might be able to stop him if he unseals his magic but that would mean resealing those wizards will be next to impossible! I can’t risk the future because of loyalties from the past.”
“The same could be said about me and Taya. If we learn how to use our powers properly, we also will be too powerful to stop. Are you going to fight me, brother?”
“That’s completely different! Perhaps Taya has some unknown resentment but why on earth would you turn on us?” Tyler growled.
“Perhaps I value individuals more than an already lost kingdom. Demi is a prince. He could and should become king. What if allying with him and his desires is more beneficial to me than allying with your group?” I smirked.
“Jeremy!” Tyler screamed.
“Enough. I used to look up to you, but it’s like I don’t even know you. If you can’t trust someone because you’re scared you can’t control them, there’s no need for further conversation. You’re no different from the royal family you hate so much.” I coldly stated before walking back to where Taya and Demi were.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Taya�¢??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremy�¢??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Previously: Demi explains what he knows about aura. Taya's late father is revealed to be a wind elemental. The group find out that while the aura users help the mage, the rest of them will face the imperial guard. |
By Erika Whittle
We watched as Jer and Tyler retreated into the woods.
“That was quite something. His emotions must have been pretty strong in order to cause an earthquake like that. It makes me wonder what exactly happened during that fight.” I said, still worried about Jer.
“I image so. He had the look of a man who touched death.” Demi replied. I looked at him in confusion. “I’ve seen it a lot, the change that happens in a person’s eyes when they come back from the brink of death. It only makes sense that coming within an inch of the afterlife would change a person.”
“Maybe that’s why they were avoiding the topic when I asked.”
“Probably, everyone deals with things differently. Some don’t want to talk about it, while others find comfort in sharing their story.”
“And you? Have you also experienced that?”
“Yes. But I was pretty young and assassination attempts were common place in my life. Since it was normal, I don’t think it impacted me the same way as someone who has led a relatively peaceful life. Anyway, no more distractions. It’s time for you to practice.” Demi smirked and I laughed. Yah, I should have expected that.
I tried to focus on the feeling I experienced in my heart when my power unleashed. I really tried, but nothing was happening.
“Is there anything that you find particularly moving? Anything that helps you express yourself or evokes emotion from you that isn’t solely negative?” Demi inquired.
Come to think of it, there was something like that. Life has been so crazy, I forgot what I enjoyed before the mist was unleashed. “Music”, I answered. “I used to play the flute.”
Demi looked genuinely surprised. “Really? I thought you too much of a tomboy for that. That makes things easier though. Imagine your power being the song of your flute. Just like music comes from deep inside, your power comes from the same place.”
Well, that makes sense. I envisioned an imaginary flute, even lifting my fingers as if to play. Then, as if to mock my previous attempts, wind sprang forth from the tips of my fingers. It gently swirled around me like a comforting song. I closed my eyes, immersed in the experience. As my mind’s eye headed towards the crescendo, the light breeze picked up pace, lifting and twirling fallen leaves around me. When my imagined piece ended, the wind gently settled. I smiled.
“Now, you know how to find it. It gets much easier from here. Instead of a peaceful song, imagine a fast, upbeat tempo. Imagine it as a war cry, with the music accompanying you in battle. I’ll be your opponent.”
I nodded. I’ve never played music like that before, but if I imagine a tainted before me, it should be possible. I took my stance but instead of pulling out a sword, I visualized music bursting from my finger tips, attacking my enemy. I lunged forward, wind supporting my steps. I imagined a blade, and a symphony of music around me, rushing to the finish. A scythe of wind appeared in my hand. I imagined it flying towards my enemy. Visualization is a powerful thing. The wind blade carved a pathway in the ground beneath and tore towards Demi. Fortunately, Demi dodged. I landed beside him and both of us watched the wind tear through three consecutive trees. I turned pale. I could’ve killed my partner. While I was feeling guilty, Demi looked extremely pleased, almost proud. I heard applause coming from behind me and turned to see Jer clapping with an impressed face.
“Wow, Taya, I wasn’t even gone that long and you’re out hear recking the forest.” Jeremy smiled, his eyes filled with laughter. I blushed in embarrassment.
“Have you finished your conversation?” Demi asked.
Tyler nodded his affirmation. “Good, now it’s your turn. Back to work.” Demi grinned.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Previously: Taya and Jer practice using aura. Jer loses control, causing a small earthquake. Tyler runs to where Jer is. |
By Erika Whittle
While Jer and Taya followed Demi to the other side of the woods, Derek, Dave, and Brandi, along with members of the other group, followed Tyler to a clearing. “Since you’re hunters I’m sure you’re familiar with killing. However, killing people in their right mind is different. They have rational judgment and are capable of evoking sympathy from you. Don’t let them. The others have already practiced with me and are familiar with my methods. Therefore, we’ll start with a test for the newbies.” Derek and Brandy frowned. Dave’s expression remained the same, as if he didn’t care either way. Two women, a blonde and a brunette, and a boy in his early teens, stepped forward. The women stood in front of Derek and Dave and the kid in front of Brandy. Now all three of them were frowning.
“What is this?” Derek asked.
“Your test”, Tyler replied.
“There are no women or children in the royal guard.”
“Maybe not, but there’s no guarantee the only attack will come from guards. Shadow knights come in both genders and various ages. Only skill matters. We have a former shadow among us so we know this as fact. You need to cut down any enemy, not just the ones you feel good about. Begin.”
The women lunged at the men and the kid at Brandy. The three quickly raised their weapons to parry the attack. Dave reacted the fastest; his sword deflecting the blonde’s attack as if scorning her. She frowned and jumped away from him, creating some distance. Dave simply followed her movement with his eyes. A look of determination graced the woman’s face. She ran full speed, in a J-shape, and jumped high in the air. With her sword raised, she used the momentum to come bearing down on Dave with full force. Dave smiled. Treating his blade like the shaft of a spear, he raised the palm of his left hand flat, supporting the other end of his sword. The woman put her whole body into the attack, but Dave was like a tree rooted to the ground; unshakeable. She fell to the ground and summersaulted away from him. Instead of attacking again she remained in a crouched position, ready to react. Dave slowly walked towards her. The woman’s face paled and eyes trembled. Dave raised his leg and stomped down on the woman’s sword. Both of them paused before the woman admitted defeat. Dave politely backed off.
Derek wasn’t having any fun. Although he rarely walked the moral high road, fighting women was a different matter. Instead of attacking he chose to defend. He looked beside him and saw Dave subdue his opponent. This time when the woman lunged towards him, he followed suit. At the last moment, he dodged her sword and used his legs to trip her. He immediately attempted to disarm her, but the stubborn women held on to her weapon like a lifeline. Eventually he succeeded in shaking her off, but they were both panting by the time he did. The brunette also conceded defeat.
Brandy, though initially surprised, had actually been in similar situations. Being a pirate is sometimes a family business and she had encountered more than one overzealous teen. Since she regularly dealt with these less than lawful folk, this situation was nothing special. She decided to treat it as a teaching moment. The excited boy repeatedly attacked while Brandy leisurely defended. She would praise him when his attacks were solid and spout unsolicited advice when they were weak. Eventually, the child grew frustrated and stopped.
“Why’d you stop? You haven’t won yet.” Brandy teased.
“The test wasn’t for me; it was for you.” The boy sulkily answered back.
“Okay, enough. Surprisingly the woman-”
“Brandy.”
“..Brandy,” Tyler corrected, “did the best in this test. However, she did waste time playing with her opponent. You boys refused to seriously engage with women.”
“Are you kidding me; she was giving the kid pointers and we’re the ones who didn’t take the fight seriously?” Derek yelled, his patience long gone.
“Yes, but she was seriously assessing his skills the whole time. You two were busy trying to disarm the women instead of fighting them. Dave a little less then Derek.”
Derek scowled and Dave shrugged. Dave approached Tyler and pretended to write in the air. Seeing this, Derek pulled out a notepad and pencil. “I don’t know if anyone told you but Dave can’t speak. He rarely bothers to write his thoughts down but I guess there’s something he wants to say to you." Derek handed Dave the note pad. Dave wrote down what he wanted to say and handed the ripped sheet of paper over to Tyler.
Tyler’s face paled as he read the note. Derek couldn’t stand the suspense and read over his shoulder. “Ha,” Derek’s sigh like laugh contained mixed emotions. “I don’t think he meant it that way, Dave. He thought you were going easy on her because you were uncomfortable fighting a woman. I’ll admit, that was the case for me. Fighting women is one of the few lines I don’t cross.” Dave looked at Derek with sympathetic eyes and nodded his head in understanding. Then he began to write more.
“I see...please don’t kill my comrades. Subdue them as fast as possible without inflicting serious damage.” Tyler solemnly explained to Dave. “As for you, Derek, you will continue to practice with women until you can treat them the same as any other enemy. It might make you uncomfortable, but I have just the person to pair you with.”
Just as Tyler was about to summon a new sparring partner for Derek, the ground shook. There was a brief moment of panic, as everyone thought it was an earthquake. Tyler looked in the direction Demi, Taya and Jer had gone, and hastily sprinted into the forest.
“I guess his brother is having some issues. We’ll take a fifteen minute break. If Tyler hasn’t returned by then, I’ll take over.” Trent announced.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Previously: Taya and Jer explore their new powers |
By Erika Whittle
“You sure embrace your looks.” The blonde woman praised Dave as she sat beside him. She stuck out her hand to him, “my name is Sherry.” Dave shook her hand in greeting. “I really gave my all earlier, but I couldn’t even move you. It’s rather frustrating, to be honest.”
Dave stood up and pointed to his legs.
“Oh. I should have aimed lower, I guess.”
Dave nodded in affirmation and sat back down.
“Will you continue to spar with me? It would be good to practice with someone whom I can’t beat with skills alone.”
Dave smiled and nodded.
Meanwhile, Trent approached Derek, who was lying on the ground with his eyes closed. “Hey, wake up!” Trent nudged Derek’s arm with his boot.
“I’m not sleeping,” Derek responded, his eyes still closed. “If we aren’t training yet, buzz off.”
“Ha! You’re sure something. I have an idea of who Tyler wants to pair you with. Let me tell you, she’ll change your outlook on battle real quick.”
“...”
“Fine. Ignore me if you want, but if you go easy on her, you’ll regret it. She used to be the king’s shadow knight.”
Derek opened his eyes in surprise. “The shadow knight is a woman?”
“Like Tyler said, shadow knights come in both genders and various ages. I understand you have your boundaries, but they’re no good if you’re dead. Ideals are a privilege that belong to those strong enough to carry them.” Trent walked away, leaving Derek to ponder over his words.
Brandy approached the kid she was paired with. “Hi there, let me officially introduce myself, I’m Brandy.” She smiled and held out her hand. The boy reluctantly shook it.
“Chris.”
“Chris, you’re a pretty good fighter for your age. Since you’re not fully grown, it would be better to try and switch up your attacks, instead of charging in head first the entire time.” Brandy smiled.
“...you’re pretty good for a girl. But not as good as the leader. Where did you learn to fight like that?”
“Pfft. Well your leader fought side by side with his highness so I guess he would be hard to beat. I used to be a merchant and did most of my trading with pirates. I’ve seen plenty of young boys like you, eager to prove themselves.”
“I wasn’t trying to prove myself! The test was for you. Who knew I’d fight a woman with no empathy?” Chris whined pettily.
“Having empathy for someone attacking you is just stupid. I save the sentiment for people who deserve it. As far as I’m concerned, anyone who attacks me will be put down without mercy. There’s a time and place for everything.” Chris pursed his lips in dissatisfaction but didn’t rebut.
Tyler came back with a look of defeat. Trent slapped him on the back, “Worry about your brother later. You have a job to do.” Tyler composed himself.
“Okay, breaks over. Five, you’ll spar with Derek from now on. Don’t go easy on him. Everyone else, pair up and spread out. I’ll observe your performance and shake things up if necessary.”
A woman, pale as a ghost, with red eyes and white hair, approached Derek.
“I’m Five. I won’t go easy on you, so please take the fight seriously.” A monotone voice announced with an expressionless face.
Derek eyed her wearily and stood up. “I’ll try. Let’s go over there. There’s more room.” Derek pointed to an unoccupied space away from the others. Five nodded.
Derek shook out his shoulders and got into a fighting stance. No sooner than he had prepared himself, a white blur attacked from the side. Blood flowed from the slice on his arm. Derek’s eyes widened in surprise. Unfortunately for him, Five attacked from the other side before he could completely grasp the situation. He managed to dodge at the last minute, but her sword still nicked his side. This time, the white blur appeared in the air, intending to land on his head. Derek quickly lifted his sword in defense. Sparks flew, as Derek twirled to the side and pushed back against the little woman. She flung back but nimbly landed on her feet. Derek gave her his full attention and charged towards her. Right before reaching her, he slid on the ground, aiming his sword at her knees. Five jumped in the air, roughly landing on Derek’s chest, sword to his throat. Derek raised his arms. “I lost.”
Five withdrew her sword and stepped off Derek’s chest. “Now, let’s fight until you win.”
A glint appeared in Derek’s eyes. He felt his whole being fill with competitive spirit. “Yes, until I win.”
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Previously: In practice, Derek and Dave fight female opponents and Brandy a young teenage boy. Derek struggles with the assignment. |
By Erika Whittle
One week later...
“You won!” A muffled female voice piped. Derek lifted himself up and looked down at the smiling face of Five. She looked so proud. It made him feel bad.
“Yes...one hundred and one losses and I finally won with a body slam. I’m not sure if that’s something to take pride in.” Derek stood up and reached his hand towards Five. He gently pulled her to her feet.
“A win is a win, no matter how it’s achieved. I’ve trained my whole life to be a weapon. You should be proud.” Five nonchalantly stated.
“Ha,” Derek sighed and ruffled his hair. Demi clapped him on the back.
“Unless you face another shadow, you’re well prepared for anything.” Demi encouraged, but there was laughter in his eyes.
“There will definitely be an issue if we face other shadows.” Derek muttered, with an air of defeat.
“Tyler and I will be dealing with One and Two. I heard three and four died when the crown prince got possessed. I guess he’s a mutant.” Five chimed in.
“Then I hope the king was responsible enough to kill him. Are you all numbered?”
“Yes. We are ranked by ability so there’s currently only two shadows who are better than me. Speaking of which, I wonder if your highness would spar with me? Fighting you would be a good way to gage the probability of winning.” Five asked Demi with shining eyes.
“...well I guess that would be a good thing to know. Do you want a normal match or one where I use aura?”
“Please use aura. This will give me the best results.”
“If you say so,” Demi reluctantly conceded. They moved towards the clearing. Everyone followed, eager to watch the show. It’s not everyday one can witness the fight between a war hero and a shadow knight. Demi covered his sword in blue flames. “Are you ready?” Five nodded. Demi and Five moved at the same time. The sounds of clashing metal filled the air, as blurs of white and blue danced within the clearing. I tried to make out what was going on but they were both moving too fast for my eyes to keep up. Creed was beside me, looking on with delighted, mesmerized eyes. “It’s truly impressive,” Creed mumbled to himself.
“You can see their movements?” I questioned in surprise.
“Yes. His highness is bigger and stronger than Five, so he’s attempting to overpower her with brute strength. Five is trying to find an opening to attack. It’s not easy. His highness is surprisingly swift. He keeps blocking her. I’m pretty sure he’ll win but, perhaps without aura, it would be a draw.”
“But Demi only used aura on his sword?”
“Initially, yes, but once he grasped her fighting style he switched tactics. He drew his flames beyond his sword to form something like a whip, and he’s using it to block his weak spots. It’s quite clever. These two people are the epitome of what humans can achieve.” Creed explained, clearly impressed.
The fight came to an end, with Demi wrapping Five in a rope of flames. Rather than disappointment, Five expressed fascination with Demi’s flames, that bound her without burning her. Demi released her, and Five bowed. “Thank you for teaching me something new.”
“Would you like to continue? I think this would be a good group activity.” Demi smiled. I knew that smile. This was the look he gave me before subjecting me to that crazy bootcamp at the hunter’s guild. Not realizing the trap she walked into, Five happily agreed.
“Tyler, Dave, Derek and Brandy,” Demi called. “You will team up with Five. Taya and Jer, you two will be with me. You’ve made a lot of progress in the past week, so now it’s time to test your growth.”
Jer and I moved towards Demi while the others went to join Five. I was nervous. Though I had improved my control significantly, I couldn’t help but remember all the trees I accidently demolished at the beginning. I nervously looked at Demi.
“It will be fine, Taya. If either of you lose control, I’ll help the other side.” Demi shamelessly proclaimed.
“Where’s the loyalty?” Jer joked.
The lightened atmosphere helped me control my emotions. Creed declared himself the referee. “Is everyone ready? I’ll take the silence as affirmation. One. two. three, go!”
Five’s group wasted no time and immediately sprinted towards the aura users. I held two daggers, while Jer and Demi used long swords. Brandy and Five moved towards me while the boys fought each other. I was inwardly surprised. I thought Five would try and fight Demi again. Having seen for myself the speed at which she moved, I immediately formed a wind barrier around myself. I stood with my eyes closed, in the eye of a small tornado. I focused on the sounds around me and the feeling of the wind. I deemed anything that wasn’t a part of my connection as an enemy. I felt two forces, attempting to break through the wall of wind. I smiled. I let go of one of my daggers, and used wind to shoot it at one of the forces. I heard a yelp of pain as the dagger hit its target. Right as I was about to follow suit with my second blade, a twirl of white broke through my defenses. I groaned as a kick to my stomach threw me back. My concentration broke and the wind subsided. I rolled out of the way and narrowly avoided getting stabbed to death. Five relentlessly pursued me. If I didn’t know any better, I’d think she was actually trying to kill me. Her last strike nicked my shoulder and it hurt like hell. I was in a really bad mood and I could feel my control slipping. I used wind to push her back.
“Wait a minute Five, I’m not in control.” For whatever reason, she ignored me and charged at me once more. I gritted my teeth, and sent a blade of wind flying her way. She dodged but I was truly annoyed with her. My aura reflected my state of mind, and the blade followed her like a honing device. The more agitated I felt, the more strength and speed was added to the blade. People started jumping out of the way. I tried to calm down but the crazy woman was still attempting to attack me. Sturdy arms hugged me from behind, and a large hand covered my eyes.
“That’s enough now, Taya.” Demi whispered in my ear. I felt my body relax at the sound of his voice. I heard Creed in the background, declaring the end of the match.
Demi called Five. “Why did you continue to attack when she said she had lost control? Do you know how dangerous that is, not just for you but everybody?” I stiffened at his words. Did I hurt someone?
“I apologize, I underestimated the strength of her aura. But in real life, an enemy won’t stop just because you say so.” A soft voice stubbornly rebutted.
“That may be true, but this isn’t a real fight. This is a training exercise. Are you trying to dwindle our numbers before we even face a real enemy?”
“Sorry,” a much more genuine voice replied.
“If this is the calm before the storm, it’s going to be a bumpy ride.” Brandy commented, putting pressure on her injured arm. I think those were the truest words she’s ever spoken.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Previously: Derek meets his new sparring partner Five. His ideals are shaken. |
By Erika Whittle
The match ended and everyone dispersed. Tyler lingered for a while, eyeing Demi, but eventually gave up and followed his brother elsewhere. Finally, we were alone. My legs gave out from under me and Demi supported me, sitting me carefully on a large rock.
“Sorry, I guess I’m still upset.” I shakily explained. I’m not sure what upsets me more; the fact that I lost control or that I truly believed that crazy albino was trying to kill me.
“There’s nothing to apologize for.” Demi gently responded while rubbing my back. The gesture was calming. Demi has always been good at giving me what I need, when I need it. I grabbed his free hand.
“Thank you. Not just for this moment, but for every time you’ve supported me. I don’t think I could have made it this far without you.” My eyes watered. I had no idea why I was so emotional. Embarrassed, I quickly wiped my tears. Come to think of it, it’s around that time of the month. Maybe that’s why I lost control over my emotions so easily. This is definitely something to watch out for. Stupid hormones.
Demi knelt in front of me, grabbing my other hand. He carefully held both my hands and looked straight into my eyes. My heart raced. “Taya, I have been alone most of my life and when my mentor died, I thought I’d remain alone forever. But you came rushing into my life. To me, you are much like your wind. Sometimes you are a tornado that sweeps me off my feet. Other times, your presence is like a calm breeze that refreshes my spirit. But I know this, it’s something I don’t want to live without. I, I think I love you, Taya.”
Demi’s confession sent my heart into a frenzy. I was overjoyed, excited, and scared, all at the same time. But Demi’s presence has become a rock in my life. He firmly keeps me grounded, preventing me from blowing away with the wind. “Me too.” I whispered. I looked into Demi’s searching eyes and replied more firmly, “I think I love you too. I have also been alone for a long time. I mean, the sisters and children at the orphanage are like my family but it’s not the same. I once had a friend who was like a brother, but he died in the war. Though I eventually moved on, I was too afraid to let someone get that close to me again. I’m still afraid. I’m afraid that this moment won’t last, that you’ll find someone better. I’m even more afraid of losing you all together. No matter how skilled you are, there’s no guarantee that we’ll both survive. And if I lose you, it will probably be because you saved me. I don’t want to live with that guilt. And I know that you will never just watch me die, no matter what I say. So...please help me. Help me control this power so I can stand on my own.” My voice trembled towards the end. This was something I’d been thinking a lot about lately. I’ve been avoiding saying it out loud, but after today, what little confidence I had about not being a hindrance was gone. Demi kissed the back of my hand.
“You’re right, I can’t watch you die. But I don’t want you to suffer alone, feeling guilty for the rest of your life. Let’s train some more. The future can be discussed when we both make it through this alive.” Demi’s voice was thick with emotion he couldn’t express. He helped me to my feet. “Now think of a love song,” he whispered. Another round of training began, this time, my wind responding to a hopeful future yet to come.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, searching for her older sister, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, hunting partner of Brandy, aura user of earth element Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Taya's step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremy's older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Previously: The sparring match between Taya and Five gets out of hand. Five aggressively pursues Taya and Taya loses control of her power |
By Erika Whittle
“Why did you do that?” Derek questioned Five. “You weren’t like that when we sparred. It really looked like you wanted to kill her.”
“...maybe a little bit.” Five admitted quietly.
“What?” Derek was flabbergasted. “Why? Did Taya offend you somehow? No, even if she did, trying to kill her is a bit much. I don’t even want to image Demi’s wrath.” Derek shivered at the thought. Aside from feeling bad about the potential death of a comrade, his highness was truly frightening. Derek had seen it a few times, how possessive Demi was of his partner, and how ferocious he became when she was in danger. Goosebumps climbed their way up his skin just thinking about it.
“...that’s why I did it.” Five looked Derek square in the eye as she explained. “I have also noticed how attached his highness is to his partner. There’s no doubt in my mind that he would die for her if the situation called for it. As a shadow, I have done plenty of unsavory things for the royal family. But I never complained. I never disobeyed. Every shadow has someone they care about working in the palace. It’s a type of insurance policy so we don’t turn on our masters. One day I was sent on a mission, to observe Duke Silvester and try and catch his weakness. I’ve done plenty of things like that before, so I thought nothing of it and simply obeyed. While I was away, my brother made a mistake while serving the crown prince. He tripped and tea splattered on the prince’s robe. Do you know what he did? He cut off my brother’s hands and threw him in prison. By the time I returned, my brother had already died from infection. After that, I ran away and came here, where I met others with a grudge against the royal family. It may sound cruel, but the kingdom doesn’t need Taya. It does need prince Demetri. I figured if Taya was dead or severely injured, I wouldn’t have to worry about his highness potentially dying in her stead. But I underestimated her. His highness used his aura sparingly so I had no idea what a significant difference it would make.”
A moment of silence passed before Derek spoke up. “You’re right; that is cruel.” Derek watched as Five lowered her gaze and clenched her fists. “A broken man cannot be king. You don’t seem to realize how destructive someone is when they have nothing to lose. You are a good example of that. You attacked Taya regardless of the consequences because you have nothing left to lose. Had your brother still been alive, you might have thought twice about taking away someone else’s precious person.”
“Ahh, you are right. I was short sighted. I just really want Demetri to become king.”
“If that’s the case, your best bet is to help Taya increase her chances of survival. That way, what you’re worried about won’t happen. You better be nice, she might become your queen.” Derek half joked. Five’s expression went blank and Derek laughed. She’s ruthless but kind of cute, Derek thought to himself.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Taliâ??s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Previously: Taya and Five's spar gets out of hand |
By Erika Whittle
The days progressed and Demi took over training for the entire group. Just like at the hunter’s guild, Demi would instruct and I would demonstrate. Tyler had taught his group to be ruthless. Now Demi was teaching practical sword combinations and battle tactics. This was easy for me since I had already been through Demi’s boot camp already. Once the lesson was over, we’d practice sparring, changing opponents regularly. At the moment, my opponent is Jer.
The ground below me began to crack at Jer’s command. I blew the debris in his face. He stopped it, but I had already maneuvered behind him. I pushed him forward with my wind. Jer rose the earth in front of him to prevent his fall. Tsk. I lunged at him, hoping to finish him off before he could turn around. Spikes of earth advanced towards me. I used my wind to shield myself before I got skewered. Hmmm, I wonder...I thought of my time in the orphanage, playing my flute with my bird friends. Wind gathered around me, lifting me up. Jer’s jaw dropped as he watched me float over his spikes. I landed right in front of him, only to hear the whistle blow. Time was up and we had a five minute break before starting the next fight. A grabbed my canteen and hurriedly chugged my water.
“I can’t believe you just flew! What were you thinking about?”
“Music and birds,” I replied. “Your control is impressive. What do you think about?”
“Horseback riding. And if I start to lose control I recite court law.” I blinked. Well, I guess that’s one way to calm down. Maybe I should start reciting the scripture the nuns made me memorize. That always put me to sleep. I thanked Jer for the insight.
It was time for the next round and the person standing before me...was Five. I tried not to make a face.
“Before we start, I’d like to apologize. I was seriously attacking you before, not because I don’t like you, but because I thought your presence was a hindrance to his highness.” Five bowed her head in apology. Honestly, I think I was less upset before she apologized. On top of that, even though Demi was busy giving Chris instructions, I’m pretty sure he heard what Five said. There’s no way Chris did something deserving of that monstrous expression.
“I don’t think I can accept that apology. If you really think that, there’s nothing I can do. Unfortunately for you, I’m not going anywhere.” I glared. Five nodded her head but who knew what she was really thinking. “Let’s get this fight over with.” I snapped. Since I was irritated, I took a lesson from Jer and started reciting all the verses I knew about being slow to anger.
The whistle sounded and the fight began. This time I started with a wind blade. It came barrowing towards Five, but I lifted it off the ground so I wasn’t carving trenches in the terrain. Learning her lesson from the previous battle, she immediately ran towards me. I grinned, and kept the blade going until she was almost right in front of me, then I lifted myself in the air and kicked her head. Everyone around us froze. Five had flown backwards and now had a bloody nose. I’m pretty sure she’ll also have a black eye in the not so distant future. I walked towards her and looked down on her with as much oppression as I was capable of.
“Now, I’ll accept your apology.” I quipped, and walked away.
I heard footsteps behind me, quickly catching up. Demi grabbed my shoulder and I turned to face him. He observed my expression, trying to decipher what was on my mind. I decided to have mercy on the man. “I’m fine. I didn’t lose control; I meant to do that.”
Demi smiled. “In that case, I really enjoyed it.” I laughed.
“It wasn’t too harsh a reaction?”
Demi gritted his teeth, “She voluntarily admitted to trying to harm you. And she had the audacity to say it was for my sake. You could have hit harder.”
“I knew you overheard.”
Demi looked embarrassed. “I can’t help but pay attention to anything concerning you.” Demi confessed. I blushed. After confessing our feelings, Demi was even more obvious about his over-protection. He didn’t make excuses and just said what he felt. As a woman it was exciting; as a hunter it was problematic. We each had our own roles to play and, in a way, Five was justifiably concerned. Doesn’t mean I have to like it. I also don’t think that my disappearance would be helpful. It would probably just make Demi lethally impulsive. I recalled how much Silvester’s death had affected him and came to the conclusion that I absolutely cannot die. If I die before him, this man will self-destruct.
We walked for a while, hand in hand, enjoying this precious moment of peace. Everyone has improved their fighting abilities. Soon it will be the time to put an end to this pandemic, but for just this moment, I let it be. To face an unknown and possibly deadly future, we should at least be carrying good memories.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Taliâ??s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Previously: Taya and Five's sparring match gets out of hand, leaving Taya with hard feelings |
By Erika Whittle
It had been a while since I had seen Tali. I found out recently that she’s been spending most of her time with Creed, deciphering ancient texts. Creed was filling in the blanks where information was missing. They were attempting to locate the exact spot where the seal is kept. It was such a big secret that even Five, someone who regularly guarded the king, wasn’t sure of it’s location. The only thing she knew for sure is that it was underground.
“We found it!” Tali exclaimed as she ran up to Tyler. He and Demi had been discussing the training sessions. Tyler opened his arms and Tali jumped into them. “Really? That’s great. Now we can solidify our plans.” Tyler excitedly responded, lifting Tali up and twirling her. My jaw dropped. Since when were they this close? Tyler’s group was more interested in Tali’s words than their public display of affection. Perhaps only my group was surprised; except for Demi, but he rarely reacted to things he felt was none of his business.
“So you guys located the relic?” Trent approached with a grin.
“Yes, surprisingly the palace was built on top of an old shrine. The wizards were sealed in the same place they had sacrificed others to use forbidden arts. It’s kind of poetic.” Tali explained.
“Wow, that’s kind of ominous. Is there a separate entrance to the shrine?”
Tali’s joyful face dimmed at Trent’s next question. “Well...that’s the only catch, we’re not sure where the entrance is. We only know where the shrine’s located.”
“That’s a major setback.”
“Not necessarily,” Demi mused. “You said it was underground right? Well, we have an earth elemental.”
Tyler’s eyes widened and Tali regained her hopeful expression. We all turned towards Jer, who, up until this point, was leisurely eating an apple. He paused mid bite, his eyes resembling a startled deer.
Demi gave him a big, crinkly eyed smile. “Come this way, Jeremy.” Demi left the cave, and Jer, as well as the rest of us curious onlookers, followed. He stopped beside an ant hill. “Now, touch the ground and see if you can map out the design of the hive.” Jer passed his half-eaten apple to Brandy and did as he was told. He crouched down, placed his hands on the ground, and closed his eyes. I’m not sure what he visualized but it seemed to be working. Soon, with his eyes still closed, he started drawing lines in the ground. When he opened his eyes and removed his hand from the ground, a map of the ant hive was drawn. Demi patted Jer’s shoulder in pride. “Great. We’ll leave finding the entry in your capable hands.” Jer, still somewhat dazed, glanced at Demi. Observing his confident demeanor, he eventually smiled and nodded.
“I guess all we have left to do is get Jer close enough to draw a map,” Tyler remarked.
“There are many secret passages in the palace. At least half are exists. I know a few of them and since they’re secret, they aren’t guarded. I’ll take Jer to one that connects to a forest.”
“I guess having a prince in the group is helpful after all,” Tyler joked.
“If only the same could be said for you.”
I stifled my laughter at Demi’s comeback. It was decided that all of us would head down the mountain in the morning. We would gather supplies in Tal before heading to Jer and Tyler’s mansion in Taloff. From there, we would make our way to their mansion in the capital, which was about a twenty minute carriage ride from the palace. The entire trip would take about a month. In essence, we were a month away from the finish line.
It took two full days to descend the mountain. The journey was slightly slower with a large group. Because of our numbers, when we reached the cabin at the halfway point, the men were forced to camp outside while the women slept in doors. Chivalry aside, there were double the number of men to women so they wouldn’t have fit in the cabin anyway. It was easier to divide by gender than some other condition like roles or class. I thought Creed might complain because he seemed a bit picky but he was surprisingly excited to camp. I heard from Tali that Creed was greatly interested in astrology. Since this was one of the rare moments that could talk to Tali without any men interrupting, I decided to ask what I had been curious about.
“Tali, are you and Tyler dating?”
Tali was a bit startled by the question but soon answered, “Yes, we started dating shortly after fleeing the capital. We spent so much time alone together, before meeting the others, it just naturally happened. Everyone else knew so I didn’t think to mention it. I’m sorry if you felt excluded.”
“No, no,” I quickly waved my hands and shook my head in denial. “I had just never seen you express affection before so I didn’t realize...I thought you were just close partners.”
Tali observed me for a moment before confronting me with what I left out. “But you’re not happy because you don’t like Tyler, right?”
Embarrassed, I avoided eye contact. “Well, his personality is...a bit difficult. If it weren’t for the obvious resemblance, I wouldn’t believe he’s Jeremy’s older brother.”
Pfft. To my surprise, Tali laughed. “Difficult is a kind way of putting it. He can just say it- he’s an ass.” My eyes widened. What a way to describe someone you like. It’s true but still. “Of course he isn’t to me. I didn’t realize what his personality was actually like until I saw him around other people. He was initially kind to me because he wanted a favor but later...well, I guess we all want to show our best to the person we like.” That’s true. I’m glad he at least treats my sister well. “What about you and Demi? It feels like something changed in your relationship?” I blushed.
“We confessed to each other but our relationship status is ambiguous. We decided that definitions can wait until after this is all over. For now, it’s enough to know that the feelings we hold are mutual.”
Tali nodded in understanding. “I like his highness. Things might become complicated for the two of you in the future because of the status difference. But I’ve seen how he looks at you, so I’m not worried. Actually, at first I felt bad for him because it looked like his feelings were one sided.” Now I was fanning my flushed face.
“I, I had a crush on him,” I stammered. “But though there’s plenty of reasons for me to like him, I didn’t think there were any reasons for him to like me. So I ignored the feeling and pushed it to the back of my mind. I’m pretty good at keeping my priorities straight, so it wasn’t hard.”
“Haha, well I’m pretty sure you are his highness’ priority, so I feel much better knowing my little sister isn’t trampling on a prince’s heart.” Tali laughed heartily as I grew increasingly more embarrassed. Brandy heard the laughter and joined in on the conversation. Eventually, all the women had gathered, swapping stories of their men or past escapades. Even Five came to listen. She didn’t say anything, but she looked curious about other people’s romantic experiences. Knowing her profession, I doubt she had many experiences getting to know the opposite sex normally. The entire atmosphere was jovial and light hearted. We resembled little girls at a slumber party. We talked well into the night, until the men started yelling at us to be quiet and go to sleep. Laughter faded into the deep breathing of slumber.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Taliâ??s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Previously: Five apologizes for attempting to hurt Taya. Feeling petty, Taya only accepts the apology after kicking her in the face during their spar. |
By Erika Whittle
Meanwhile, outside the cabin the men were setting up tents. The women’s laughter could be heard from outside.
“Sounds like they’re having fun.” Derek grinned and Dave nodded his agreement. The two had finished setting up their tent and both were sharpening their swords.
“You’re really attached to that thing, huh?” Trent interjected. Dave nodded and stuck his hand out to Derek, who obediently handed him a notepad and pen.
It was a gift from my father. It’s the only thing of him that remains so I don’t like people touching it.
Trent read the note then asked curiously, “Was you father a barbarian? And why does Derek carry the pen and paper if you’re the one who needs it?”
Dave began writing while Derek answered the second question. “When we first partnered up as mercenaries I got frustrated because I didn’t know what he was thinking. I started carrying a notepad and demanded he write his answers. We’ve worked together so long now that it’s rarely necessary, but it became a habit.”
Trent nodded and then read Dave’s reply.
Yes, my father was a barbarian. My mother was a southern noblewoman. As you might imagine, their union was frowned upon. There’s nothing but this sword and one portrait of my mother, left to prove they existed.
“Sounds difficult. But you forgot the most important thing they left behind- you.” Dave’s looked at Trent in surprise. “Oh, you can get surprised too? You hardly ever react. I’m not even sure if you’re listening most of the time. My parents also had a forbidden love. My mother was a mercenary's daughter and my father a young heir to a rich commoner family. Not quite as intense as your story, but there’s a similar result. Anyway, that’s why I don’t look down on woman fighters,” Trent pointedly looked at Derek. “My mother was a better swordswoman than my father, better than most men, really. Haha apparently she challenged her future father-in-law to a duel when he refused to give his blessing on their marriage. He lost and the price was not only his permission, but he had to allow my father to inherit the business still. There was a lot of tension with my father’s side of the family, but after I was born my grandparents calmed down at least. My aunts and uncles never did acknowledge their union but they couldn’t do anything about it. Both my parents were capable in their own right.”
“So did your mother teach you swordsmanship?”
“My mother and grandfather, her father. I also learned business from my father. But because of the royal family’s tricks, my family was framed and lost everything. I was away, studying, so I was the only one who survived the purge.” Trent gritted his teeth, murderous intent seeping out.
“I see why you joined this group.” Derek quietly responded and Dave patted Trent’s shoulder.
*********
Demi had just finished setting up his Tent when Tyler approached. Jer, whom he was sharing with, had went to fill their canteens. Tyler sat down beside Demi and awkwardly started a conversation.
“Before Jeremy gets back, I want to apologize.” Demi, who had yet to acknowledge Tyler’s existence, turned to look at him with raised eyebrows. Tyler, though embarrassed, continued. “When I first saw you and Taya on this mountain, I really was suspicious. Someone I know, who should be on the opposite end of the kingdom, was right in front of me. It made more sense when I realized that Taya was Tali’s sister, but I was still guarded. Actually, Tali chewed me out once you guys left. She feels a lot of guilt towards Taya, even though it wasn’t her fault. But as an older sibling, I understood that guilt. That’s part of the reason I’ve been so insufferable. When we met again, you were with Jeremy, of all people. Jeremy looked at you with the respect he once had for me. I guess, no, I know I’m jealous. I felt like you had replaced me.”
“Jeremy might respect me, but he doesn’t see me as his brother.”
“I know that. But I made a mistake when we were kids and it put a strain on our relationship. Things got better, after the war, but then I fled the capital. I thought perhaps I had run out of chances with him.”
Tyler lowered his head, somewhat dejected. Demi flicked his forehead. “Stupid. You’ve only run out of opportunity if one or both of you dies. I’ll give you some space, so fix it.”
Demi left, passing Jeremy on the way. Demi thanked him as he grabbed his canteen. “Where are you going?”
“I want meat for breakfast so I’m going to see if there’s game nearby. Taya gets angry when she’s hungry.”
“Ah, I guess she does. Do you want company?”
“Not from you; you and your brother need to talk. I’ll take the kid with me.”
Jer made a face filled with reluctance. “You’re so patient with someone who’s so ungrateful.”
“Pfft. Compared to what I’m used to, Tyler is simply childish and annoying. Jeremy, ” Demi called, his face devoid of humor. “I can only dream of having the family that you have. Don’t waste it.” With that, Demi leisurely walked away, calling for Chris to follow. Jeremy watched them leave and stifled a laugh. Chris was excitedly following Demi like a chick follows its mother.
“Jeremy, come here for a minute. I know you’re angry at me, but there’s something I want to say to you while I’m still able.” Jer took Demi’s spot beside Tyler. “I’m sorry. You were right that I was being unreasonable. The truth is, I’m jealous of Demi. You follow him so well.”
Tyler looked at his brother incredulously. “You’ve been an ass because I follow the grande duke? I’d have to be an idiot not to follow him. Did you not just see Chris following him like a puppy?”
“Haha, well I guess you have a point. His highness has a way of drawing people in without even trying. And I know you’re not an idiot. I made a mistake when we were children. You’ll never know how much I regret it. So when I saw the respect you have for his highness, I couldn’t help but be jealous. I don’t really suspect him of anything. I know how hard his life was in the palace and that the king would never have involved him in any of this. And I don’t really think he would turn on the kingdom despite his experiences. I was just being petty because I wanted to distance you from him. It was wrong and I just apologized.”
“Ha...you really are so childish. Which of us is older, huh? If you want my respect, you’ll have to earn it. I’m not longer a child who will blindly follow you. You’re my brother and I love you, but this and that are different. I got over that incident ages ago. Sure, I feel rivalry towards you, but that’s pretty normal among brothers. I didn’t realize you thought I was still holding a grudge.”
Tyler was embarrassed. “I see. I guess I misunderstood this whole time.”
“I was a bit sulky that you left without saying anything to me. If you had time to write a note to dad, you had time to knock on my door and say you were leaving. Do you know how worried the whole family is because of you?” Jer slightly raised his voice in frustration. Tyler pulled the fuming Jer into a hug.
“I’ve missed you, brother.” Jeremy’s eyes softened.
“Yah, I’ve missed you too, you dope.” The brothers’ laughter rang in the night air.
Demi returned to camp with three rabbits and some type of bird. Chris, smiling broadly, had caught three birds. “Girls, go to bed!” Demi yelled, as he passed the cabin. “I caught breakfast, I’ll set it up over the fire to smoke over night.”
“I’ll do it,” Tyler offered, taking the prey from Demi. “Chris, you help too.” Demi watched their retreating figures for a moment before turning to Jer.
“Did you sort things out?”
“Yah, we did. Thanks.” Jer smiled as Demi ruffled his hair.
“Don’t mention it. People will think the ice duke has gone soft.” Jeremy laughed.
“Your highness, I know you have the dukedom, but do you have any thought of taking the throne? I think you would make a great king and the crown prince is no longer in the way. I also heard that the queen died.”
“If I’m being honest, it’s something I don’t really want to do. I never had any ambition for the throne; I just wanted to stay alive. Haaaa, however, I do think it’s something I’m going to get pushed into regardless of my will.”
“As a citizen, I hope you’ll be my king. But as a comrade, and hopefully a friend, I’ll support whatever choice you make.”
“Thank you, Jeremy. If I do become king, I’m dragging you to the palace with me. I refuse to suffer through all that paperwork alone.” Demi grimaced and Jeremy laughed until tears formed. It was a rewarding night.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Taliâ??s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Previously: The group setup camp partway down the mountain. The girls bond |
By Erika Whittle
The group enjoyed a hardy breakfast, thanks to Demi and Chris. Despite the seriousness of the situation, everyone was in a good mood. We packed our things and finished our descent, finally arriving at our little house in Tal. It was too small to fit everyone, so Tyler’s group checked in at the inn while Demi and I visited the guild. Jer, Derek, Brandy and Dave, went to the market to gather additional supplies, and then check on the horse and buggy they left at the boarding house.
The guild leader welcomed us in excitement. I felt bad, knowing we were going to crush his hopes. “Welcome back! How was your trip?” The guild leader inquired with vigor. I was slightly embarrassed but Demi was unmoved. “Productive,” Demi replied. “Unfortunately, we’re just passing through. We’d like to stay in the house one more night, if that’s all right.” The guild leader’s excitement instantly deflated.
“Of course that’s fine. We’ll gladly help with anything you need. In fact, you can keep the house and use it whenever you are town. The owners died at the beginning of the pandemic and there were no other family members to claim the house.”
“Well, I don’t know when we’ll have the chance to return but that’s certainly convenient. Actually, I’ll just buy the house. You can send the bill to the Duchy.”
The guild master visibly brightened at the comment. “Yes, yes. It’s an honor to have you stay with us whenever you’re passing through. Would you like to say goodbye to the hunters? They all appreciate your classes and I think it would mean a lot if you talked to them before you leave.”
“Hmm, if it will increase morale, I will do so.”
Demi and I headed towards the training center, where we previously spent the most time. The hunters were diligently practicing the techniques Demi taught. As soon as we entered, everyone stopped what they were doing and sped towards us. Their vigor was a bit overwhelming.
“You guys are back! Are we resuming lessons, captain?”
“Unfortunately, no. I have some business to take care of in the capital. We came to check in and say goodbye.”
Murmurs of disappointment spread through the crowd. One of the hunters approached us and bowed his head with this fist to his chest. “Thank you for all your teaching, your highness.” Demi and I were both taken aback. I thought only the guild leader knew Demi’s identity. The man continued speaking, “It seemed like you were trying to be low key but your appearance stands out. It’s been an honor to be trained by you and...thank you for your service.” Demi’s eyes shook at the man’s comment. Another hunter stepped up, taking a similar posture.
“We have heard the rumors that follow you, even in a remote place like this. Thank you for winning the war. Many people lost loved ones, your actions gave their sacrifice meaning.”
One by one, the hunters bowed in respect. My chest filled with pride. It had nothing to do with me, but I was proud that Demi was receiving the recognition he deserved.
“If you ever need anything, even now, we will gladly serve you.”
Demi coughed, reigning in his emotions. “Thank you. I did what I had to do as a prince, but your sentiments make me feel everything was worth it.” Demi bowed his head in turn.
“I will give you one last lesson. Since you know who I am, I will use my aura. Taya will demonstrate how to defeat an opponent with powers. This will be useful should you face a mutant.”
The hunters moved aside as Demi and I took our positions in the center of the arena. Blue flames clung to his sword. I pulled out two daggers; one held backwards with the spine towards my forearm, and one held in a backhanded grip with the tip facing forward. I took a deep breath to calm myself. It’s been a while since I fought without aura. I sprung towards Demi, lifting my armed forearm to defend against his sword, I shifted my weight into his sword while my other dagger slashed towards his stomach. Demi, being a skilled fighter, leaned away from my attack, eventually jumping back. This time Demi shot flames towards me, similar to how the tainted used their mist. I rolled out of the way, narrowly avoiding the flames. I gracefully returned to my feet before barrowing towards him and tackling him to the ground. The match ended with one dagger parrying his sword and my other dagger hovering over his neck. I grinned triumphantly. Demi was slightly surprised but then returned my grin with a proud smile of his own. Applause broke out around us as we got back on our feet.
“You’ve improved a lot, Taya. Your fighting is unrecognizable compared to before.” One of the hunters I had previously sparred with, complimented me. I blushed in embarrassment but at the same time I was proud. Not too long ago I could only run away, now I can fight for myself. It all felt surreal. Demi patted my shoulder in acknowledgment.
“This concludes the lesson.” Demi announced. “I hope it helps you in the future.”
The hunters thanked us, many reiterating that they would like to help in any way they can. We returned to the cabin where everyone else had already gathered.
“What happened to you two? Did you roll around on the ground?” Brandy queried in astonishment.
“We gave one last demonstration before leaving.”
“What kind of-no, never mind. You guys should shower.”
Demi and I headed towards the bathroom to wash up. “You can shower first.” I said, turning to Demi. I was a bit startled by the intense look in his eyes. I gulped. Demi carefully removed grass from my hair, his had slightly lingering on my neck. “I’d like to suggest showering together, but it’s a full house.” My eyes shook. “I’ll settle for a kiss, if you’ll let me.” I nodded and he drew my head towards him. The kiss started cautious and increased in intensity. My heart fluttered along with my breath. I ended up showering in daze.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Taliâ??s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Tayaâ??s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremyâ??s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Previously: Trent, Derek and Dave bond, Tyler apologizes to Demi, Tyler and Jer clear misunderstandings, Jer supports Demi's decisions about the future |
By Erika Whittle
"Do we have a plan for the tainted?" Demi asked, water still dripping from his hair. I decided to look elsewhere, lest my thoughts get away from me.
"What do you mean? If we seal the souls, the tainted will automatically be dealt with." Everyone looked at Demi in puzzlement.
"Yes, but we don't know how long that will take. Once we release Creed's magic, won't all the tainted be drawn to the capital? We don't know how much collateral damage will take place while we're in the palace. I'm asking if you have a plan to counter that?" Tyler stared blankly at Demi.
"We never thought of it." One woman replied.
"The hunters from the guild offered to help me if I needed it. I think we should take some with us to the capital. I trained them so I'm confident in their skills. They also wouldn't be pulled into any politics because they're just doing their job."
"It's not a bad idea," Tyler mused. "But would the guild leader really be okay with you taking their personnel? Plus I doubt they realize how far they'll be travelling."
"It doesn't hurt to ask," I piped up. "We can present them with all the relevant information and let them decide. After speaking to the guild leader, of course." After what I saw today, I was pretty confident that the majority would be willing to follow, despite the distance.
The group agreed and the next morning Demi and I, once again, entered the hunters guild. The guild master immediately welcomed us into his office. We explained to him that we were heading to the capital, and that we had reason to believe there would be an unusually large gathering of tainted there. Because of Demi's position, the guild master immediately agreed to lend a handful of hunters for the cause. Next we went to the training center. The hunters were surprised, yet happy to see us.
"You're back! Did you cancel your plans?" One of the hunters asked with hopeful eyes.
"No, instead we came to see if a few of you can help with our plans. We have reason to believe that there will be a gathering of tainted in the capital. My group is dealing with the source of the problem, but we need hunters to deal with the tainted in the city."
Just as I suspected, there was a clamoring of people offering their services. Demi was flustered by the reaction but it was within my expectations. I stepped up in Demi's place.
"The guild leader has approved five of you to come with us to the capital. The journey will take about a month. You know each other skills best so, excluding those supporting a family, choose among yourselves the best hunters who are able to mobilize immediately. We will be leaving after lunch today. It doesn't matter how you choose. The five who are selected should report to the hunters tavern, with their gear, ready to leave. If you own a horse, bring it."
I didn't want to break up families so I set a condition. There was enough tragedy going around, no need to add to it. I set it didn't matter how they chose, apart from that, but I could already feel the rise of competitive spirit within the group. I bet they'll fight it out.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Tali’s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Taya’s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremy’s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Previously: The group arrive in Tal. Demi and Taya give one last demonstration to the hunters guild. |
By Erika Whittle
After my announcement, I promptly grabbed Demi’s hand and exited the guild. I walked towards the house a little faster than normal. Demi pulled my hand, urging me to slow down.
“What’s the rush, Taya?”
“Oh, sorry. I was lost in thought because there’s something I wanted to ask Tyler.”
“Tyler?” Demi frowned.
“Yah, I want to make a stop after going to Jer’s mansion.”
“Hmmm, well I wouldn’t worry. I’ll go with you. It’s easier for two people to travel than a large group. Catching up won’t be a problem.”
“That’s true. Thanks.” I smiled and began swinging our joined hands. Demi laughed at my antics.
“But I was really surprised back there. You took charge and sorted things out immediately.”
“Hmm? Oh, I didn’t mean to step on your toes. You seemed flustered so I just did it on reflex. I was the oldest in the orphanage so I guess giving directions to a large group is somewhat second nature. Sorry.”
“You apologize too much. I was praising you, not scolding you.”
His words made me smile. It felt good to be praised by the person you like. When we arrived at the house I immediately sought out Tyler. I quickly ran up to him, catching him by surprise.
“Can I stop briefly in Grenendale before heading to the capital?” I asked Tyler.
“Did you forget something at the guild there?” Jer inquired with curious eyes.
“Ummm, no. In case things don’t work out, there’s someone I wish to say goodbye to. It won’t take very long.”
“Taya and I can go and then catch up with you on horse afterwards.” Demi suggested.
“No need. An hour or two won’t make a difference in the grand scheme of things. We’ll take the opportunity to rest longer at the mansion while you say your goodbyes.”
“Thank you. I didn’t expect you to so willingly accommodate my selfish request.” I was truly grateful, and felt kind of bad for my harsh evaluation of Tyler.
“If it’s Grenendale...that’s the place you and Tali grew up, right?” Oh, this makes more sense. I guess he thought Tali would also want to stop.
“Yes, I guess Tali told you about it. I would like to stop by the orphanage but perhaps there’s people Tali would also like to visit.” Tyler looked at me with a rather complex expression before nodding once and turning around. He always looked at me weird when the orphanage is mentioned. I don’t really understand, since I mostly have fond memories there. Perhaps my background sounds pitiful to others. I decided to quench my curiosity.
“Demi, is being an orphan pitiful?” It was an innocent question, but Demi looked like I just asked him if my dress made me look fat.
“Well, people who don’t know you would probably think that.”
“Hmm, so how about you?”
Demi stiffened, his brow slightly damp with sweat. “I think the circumstances that led you to the orphanage are pitiful. But I don’t think you are. It seems you grew up well there.”
“I see. Well I guess you’re right. I was rather depressed at first but then the sisters and other kids became my new family. For the most part, I was really happy there.” I smiled as childhood memories past through my mind.
“I love that about you.” Demi leaned in and kissed my forehead.
We gathered our things and headed to the tavern for lunch. When we got there, five hunters were waiting for us with their gear. Two of them had horses. They looked a little ragged, so I’m guessing the competition was fierce. Despite that, they had an air of triumph. The representative introduced the group to everyone and said they were ready to leave. We told them to order lunch first because we wouldn’t be eating anything substantial until we reached Taloff. I made sure they had camping gear, and those who didn’t were told to go the market and grab some while we waited for our food. Demi handed them money to pay for the extra expense. They refused at first but he told them not to turn him into a shameless prince. That was the end of the argument. We ate heartily and stopped at the boarding house before leaving town. Demi paid extra to borrow a driver that would return the horse and buggy once we reached Taloff. It was a two day trip so we had to setup camp for a night. Nothing exciting really happened. We came across a couple tainted but they were easily dealt with. Five must have been bored, because she swiftly took care of them before anyone else could move. Finally, we arrived at the mansion. The servants were surprised to see such a large group of visitors, but they showcased their professionalism by quickly getting the spare rooms in order. There were two to a room. Tali and I were lying in a large bath together, the hot water melted away the tension in our bodies.
“I spoke with Tyler. Demi and I are heading to Grenendale in the morning. I plan to stop at the orphanage to say goodbye to someone. Is there anyone you would like to visit?”
Tali was taken aback by the news. “Grenendale...will you also be stopping at father’s house?”
Honestly, the thought never crossed my mind. Regardless, it didn’t take long for me to come to a conclusion. “No. I’m not even sure who owns the house now or if it’s still there. Perhaps, if things go as planned, I’ll visit when this is all over.”
“I see. I didn’t keep in contact with anyone, so there’s no one to visit.”
Tali was sullen after that, and I regretted bringing up the topic while we were relaxing. I thought Tyler would have said something to her. Once everyone was cleaned up, we gathered in the dining hall for a light meal before heading off to bed. After a comfortable sleep and delicious breakfast, Demi and I immediately got ready to leave.
| Author Notes |
Previously: Taya and Demi ask the guild leader for permission to take some hunters to the capital. They ask the hunters to choose five people among themselves to help them on their quest.
Character List Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Tali’s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Taya’s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremy’s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family |
By Erika Whittle
Jer lent us a couple of horses from the stables. It had been years since I’ve ridden, but since I was athletic I wasn’t very concerned about it. Right as we were about to mount, the five hunters from the guild came rushing out of the mansion. Demi and I were startled and looked at them quizzically.
“Your highness, Taya, where are you going without us?” Demi and I exchanged glances, wondering what this was all about.
“We’re just heading over to the neighboring town for a couple hours to take care of some personal business.” I explained.
“By yourselves? Let us escort you just in case.”
No, what is this? They’re here as hunters, not escorts. Demi clearly shared my sentiments. “I appreciate the thought, but we aren’t hunting so there’s no need for you to come. Technically, I’m the escort.”
The hunters exchanged glances. “Then just bring the two of us with horses. We’re well aware that both of you are skilled, but sometimes unexpected things happen. You both have an important role to play in the capital, right?”
Well, they aren’t wrong, but I strangely don’t want to agree. Maybe it just feels weird to all of a sudden be important enough for an escort. I looked over and Demi also seemed uncomfortable. However, judging by there faces it doesn’t look like they have any intention of backing down. I’m already delaying our departure with this trip, so I don’t want to waste time with pointless arguments. I sighed, “Then the two of you, grab your horses quickly.” The hunters beamed and two ran off to the stables like it was a race.
“Your highness,” one of the hunters cautiously broached. “I might be out of line in saying this, but it might be a good idea to get used to an escort.”
Ahhh. I get it. In case Demi takes the throne. Escorts are normal within the palace, it’s just that Demi didn’t have a normal experience as a prince. “I’ll consider it.” Demi hesitantly answered. Honestly, I don’t envy his position. People are more invested in his future endeavors than he is. Poor guy. While I was looking at Demi with pity, two horses pulled up beside us.
“We’re ready!” Demi and I mounted our horses and the four of us headed to Grenendale. It felt like we arrived in no time, probably because I was used to walking. I led the three to St. Mary’s orphanage and rang the bell at the gate. A nun came to answer. I watched the shock spread across her face when she recognized me. Her leisurely pace became rushed. “Taya, is that you? Is everything okay? No, you cut your hair! Who are the people with you?” Sister Anne barraged me with questions. I laughed and pulled her into a hug.
“Sister, this is Demi, Sean and Lark. Boys, this is sister Anne, one of the nuns that raised me.” Anne beamed at the introduction, a beautiful smile gracing her face.
“Welcome! Please come in.” Anne lead the four into the orphanage. The children, initially intimidated, came running over as soon as they recognized me.
“Sister Taya!” I opened my arms to receive the wave of children. It was so good to see them. “Sister, who are your friends?” I looked behind me and saw three statues where men used to be. I nudged Demi in the ribs, prompting him to unthaw. I introduced them to the children and they thankfully became human again.
“It’s so good to see you, Taya. You grew up into a beautiful tomboy!” Anne teased. When I left the orphanage, it was right before the start of the pandemic. I looked like any other young lady, with long hair and a dress. It was a product of the sisters’ hard work. I guess it’s a bit disappointing for them to see me in trousers and hunting gear, my hair chopped just above my shoulders. But I genuinely think this suits me better.
“What can I say, I was born to run around in the dirt.” I smiled.
“Yes, yes. One can only suppress their nature for so long. Did you come to visit the kids?”
“Yes and no. Of course it’s great to see the children, but I stopped to say goodbye to Max.”
Anne’s smiling face turned grim. “If it’s Max...is this the last time we will be seeing you?”
“I hope not, but just in case...it felt right to say goodbye.” I replied awkwardly. I could feel the confused gazes staring a hole in the back of my head, but I ignored them for now. Perhaps you could show the boys around while I do that?” I didn’t really want an audience.
Anne smiled and said she’d take them to the forest with some of the kids, to show off the foraging skills I had taught them. Demi stared at me, hesitant to leave. After a moment of thought I grabbed his hand and took him with me to the chapel. I led him to the statue of Saint Mary, where I was saddened to find numerous plaques on the wall. Some of the names I recognized. I stood before the plaque that held the name of my best friend, Max. “This is who I wanted to say goodbye to.” Demi gazed at the plaque, quickly realizing this was the friend I mentioned the night we confessed our feelings to each other.
“Hi Max. It’s been a while since I’ve greeted you. A lot has changed in the meantime. The world went to shit, even worse than when you were alive. It’s my turn to kill to survive. I became a hunter and made a special friend. Don’t worry, he isn’t taking your place. I love him in a different way. I wanted to talk to you, one last time, just in case. I miss you, but I hope I don’t join you there quite yet. Save up your stories, and I’ll save mine.” I said an additional prayer of departing for the others. Then Demi and I both bowed our heads to Max, before exiting the chapel.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Tali’s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Taya’s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremy’s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Previously: The group get settled at the mansion. Taya asks Tali if she want to go to Grenendale with her. Tali says she has no one to say goodbye to |
By Erika Whittle
The others still hadn’t returned so Demi and I had tea with the remaining sisters while we waited. They regaled us with stories of the mischievous children, and broke our hearts with tales of tragedy. They had suffered their own losses in the pandemic, hence the numerous plaques on the wall. When the pandemic hit, they lost all outside support for the orphanage. Thanks to the skills my father taught me, that I had passed on to them as a child, they fortunately never had to worry about starving. However, a few of the nuns who had went night fishing were consumed by the mist. When morning came, they killed the children who were playing in the yard. The nuns who were supervising the children eventually managed to stop them, but the damage was done. All the children who were out there at the time died, and of the nuns present, only one survived. Becky suffered a mental illness afterwards and locked herself in her chambers. To this day she still refuses to come out. The young nun had started working there about six months before I became of age. She was a sweet and innocent girl, not much older than me. I decided to visit her before we left, even if she didn’t allow me into the room.
Finally, Anne and the others returned, with two mangy looking hunters. Pfft, I almost spat out my tea. Sean and Lark were covered in mud from head to toe. Beside me, Demi’s eyes turned to saucers. The kids were joyfully laughing, while the grown men looked like they came back from a war. “The kids decided that the adults also needed to learn ‘Taya’s survival course for hungry children’. They dug out these mushrooms”, Anne showed us a handkerchief filled with truffles. “Then when we showed them the fish traps, Dilan asked if they could also catch fish with their swords...” Anne trailed off, slightly embarrassed.
Enough said. These childish men were goaded on by kids, and ended up spear fishing with swords. I turned to them and solemnly asked. “Did you catch anything?” Sean and Lark quickly presented their catch. They were a decent size, not bad.
“Sister Taya, the two misters killed a lot of smaller fish with their swords. They were all sliced up, and then bigger fish came to eat them! That’s when the misters quickly took down their hunt. It was amazing!” Dilan explained with shining eyes, reenacting the scene. I won’t trample on his innocence by telling him you can’t catch small fish with a sword. Demi side-eyed the two hunters who swiftly looked away. Anne led Lark and Sean to the showers. I left Demi to play with the kids while I made my way to Becky’s room. I knocked on the door.
“Becky? This is Taya, I came for a short visit.” There was moment of silence. Then I heard rustling and the door creaked open a smidge. Two hazel eyes widen, between the crack in the doorway.
“It’s really you. What-what are you doing here?”
“Like I said, I was in the area and stopped for a brief visit. I wanted to say a few words to Max.” This was something I regularly did, almost like a ritual, before I left. Everyone knew that even after death, Max was still my best friend, my brother. Understanding lit her eyes.
“Can I come in for a moment? We can talk out here if you really want to.” Hesitant, Becky eventually decided to let me in. I sat on a chair while she sat on the bed. “I saw the other plaques and...the sister’s told me what happened.” Becky trembled, lowering her gaze. “I look a lot different from before, don’t I?” Becky glanced up at me, confused by the change of subject. She scrutinized my attire.
“Yes. I heard you were a tomboy when you were young. The short hair suits you.”
“Thank you. I joined the hunter’s guild.” Becky looked shocked. I continued, “A few months back, I was part of a party that was tasked with killing a very powerful tainted. It took two separate tries to kill it. Afterwards, I got stuck in a storm. The fire blew out and the mist came in. I had a panic attack. I just couldn’t stop all my negative thoughts from consuming me. Fortunately, my partner pulled me out of it and controlled the situation. You did the right thing, Becky. We can’t always control our responses. That’s why we need people around us to keep us grounded. You can’t move forward by hiding.”
Tears streamed down Becky’s face. “It’s not just fear, Taya. With my own hands, I killed my fellow sisters and it was all for nothing! Everyone was dead except for me.” Becky cried bitterly.
“It wasn’t for nothing. If you hadn’t killed them, there would be more victims. Maybe not at the orphanage, but elsewhere. Then, someone like me would come along to kill them. Despite precautions, all it takes is one mistake; one wrong decision, one moment of distraction, will cost you your life. My previous partner died on the job. I’ve seen my current partner injured and someone in my party lost an eye. The sisters were contaminated; they would have died eventually. It’s just a matter of how many lives were lost or ruined in the process.”
Hic, hic. I gently comforted the weeping girl. When she calmed down, we headed down the stairs. Lark and Sean had cleaned up and it was time for us to go. Everyone was surprised to see Becky behind me. I said goodbye and then the teary eyed children swarmed around Becky. Anne quietly thanked me. We left them to their reunion, and returned to the mansion.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Tali’s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Taya’s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremy’s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Previously: At the hunters insistence, Demi and Taya take 2 along within them as an escort. It's implied that the hunters want Demi to get used to royal treatment. The group arrive at St. Mary's orphanage where Taya grew up. They learn that state of the orphanage since the pandemic. |
By Erika Whittle
The next day we all left for the capital. The journey was long and we spent most of our nights camping. Every once and a while we’d come across a place that had property owned by the information guild or Duchy. When that had happened, we’d have a more restful night indoors. We were travelling on horses and by buggy, so we’d stay at those places for an additional day to give the horses a break. It’s convenient to have nobles in the party. Demi had lots of money and property, and the marquisate had quite a few horses. Eventually, after a few weeks of travel, we arrived in the capital. Tyler and Jer’s parents owned a mansion relatively close to the palace. It was the perfect place to setup base and get our final preparations in order.
Brandy helped us disguise ourselves as merchants. We didn’t want to draw more attention than necessary, so we opted to disguise ourselves as horse traders. I found it humorous since the horses belong to the marquisate. Demi had used the information guild to send a message in Jer’s name. Fortunately they got the message, and the guard at the gate let us in without a fuss. There must be quite a lot of loyalty if the family still has guards. The butler came out to greet us, and Jer removed the cloth covering his face. The butler looked surprised, but Jer put his finger to his mouth, signaling him to not make a fuss. Half of our troop helped bring the horses to the stable and carrel, while the other half followed Jer inside. The butler said something to a servant and a few minutes later we heard footsteps running through the hall. The Marquis couple hurried towards us, their eyes zoned in on Jer.
“Jeremy!” His mother exclaimed, rushing in for a hug. “I’m so glad you’re okay. Why are you dressed like that? And what were you thinking, traveling this distance in the midst of all this chaos? You’re all grown up but still worrying this mother!” The marquess nagged her son, tears in her eyes.
Jeremy patted his mother’s back. “It’s okay mom. You and dad raised me, of course I’m okay. I might like books, but we’re a warrior family. As for the clothes, well there’s a reason for that.”
“Welcome home, son.” Jer’s father, though quiet, was visibly relieved. “Your message was a bit confusing. Why do we need so many horses at the main house?”
“Ah, it’s a long story. There’s quite a few of us, but can my party stay here for a few days? Also, there’s someone else with me that you’ll be happy to see.”
The marquess studied his son. “Stay as long as you need. The butler will show you guys to the guest rooms. The annex is also available if you need more space.”
“Thank you.” Jer smiled brightly at his parents. I watched him, somewhat envious, but also curious; it was interesting to see him as someone’s son and not a young master or a hunter. I was about to follow the butler when Jer called out to me. “Taya, Demi, I think you should help me explain.” Demi nodded and we both followed Jer into the living room. A few moments later, Tyler and the others entered the mansion. I heard an exclamation of surprise, most likely from the butler, and Tyler walked into the room shortly after.
“Tyler?” The marquis couple immediately stood up.
“Hi mom, dad.” Tyler greeted awkwardly. He walked towards the frozen couple. It took but a moment for a group hug to form. As a spectator, the family reunion was both heartwarming and a little awkward. Demi, sensing my discomfort, held my hand.
“Sorry,” Jer whispered. “I should have let you washup first. I was a bit short sighted.”
“It’s fine.” Demi answered for both of us. They must have heard our whispered conversation because they broke off the group hug and awkwardly apologized. “No need. Of course you’d be happy to see your family.” For the first time since arriving, the marquis focused on someone other than his children. Recognition flitted across his face and his expression turned to one of shock.
“You highness, Demetri?”
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Tali’s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Brandy: Originally a merchant who dealt with pirates, sword skills, communication skills, hunting partner of Jer Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Derek: mercenary, skilled with various weapons and guerilla tactics, hunting partner of Dave Dave: mercenary, obsessed with his sword, if someone touches his sword he goes berserk, cannot speak, hunting partner of Derek Tali: Taya’s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremy’s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Creed: Mage of an unknown age who resembles a little boy Five: Female, formal shadow knight of the royal family Setting: After a month of travel, the group finally arrive in the capital |
By Erika Whittle
For the first time since arriving, the marquis focused on someone other than his children. Recognition flitted across his face and his expression turned to one of shock.
“You highness, Demetri?”
*******
I was taken aback. The marquis knelt on one knee before Demi, his fist to his chest. Behind him his wife bowed her head in respect. Demi, disgruntled, immediately told him to get up.
“Don’t cause a scene, Peter.” Demi frowned.
“No, it is my honor to host you, my Lord.” The Marquis treated Demi with reverence.
Demi sighed. “I’m not here as your Lord. I don’t recall ever being one. Tyler, explain to your father why we are here.”
Tyler explained in detail his reason for leaving, the information he and Tali uncovered, and why we came to the capital. At the end of the story, the couple was shocked and deflated. They couldn’t believe this was the royal family they served.
“I knew I couldn’t trust the king’s judgment, but this goes beyond anything I could have imagined. He’s betrayed his own country.” Righteous anger surged through the marquis. “I’ll help you with anything I can. You may take the Aarden knights with you. They’re well trained, enough to go against the royal guard.”
“Thank you. I wasn’t expecting that, but it’s a relief. They will receive instructions from Tyler. Jeremy will be coming with Taya and I to help the mage. I imagine you have some family stuff to take care of, so we’ll leave you to it.”
We stood up, but before we could leave, the marquis stopped Demi. “Your highness, I know you had no interest in the throne, but someone has to take charge after this mess. The only one left who can do that is you. I know you’re aware of this. It’s selfish to ask this of you, when no one but Silvester helped you in the palace, but the stability of the people depends on your decisions. I am loyal to this kingdom, and I will be loyal to you. Please don’t abandon us.”
The atmosphere grew tense. There was no expression on Demi’s face as he gazed at the pleading man.
“Demi, as the Aarden heir, I will also pledge loyalty to you. It may seem laughable based on my previous behavior, but I agree with my father; there is no one but you to lead this kingdom.” Tyler bowed. Jeremy, though silent, also bowed his head. As a citizen, I could understand what they were saying. But as a person with a conscious, I was angry that they placed all the responsibility on Demi's shoulders. Demi’s never experienced the privileges that came with being a prince, and yet everyone wanted him to take responsibility. I squeezed Demi's hand. He looked down at our hands and then smiled at me.
“I also have something I wish to protect, so I won’t just let the kingdom fall. I’ll be frank. What I want is not loyalty to the kingdom, but loyalty to me. I don’t want to be stabbed in the back in the name of your cause. If that is something you cannot give, then don’t ever mention something like loyalty again. An alliance will do.”
Jer and I nodded our heads. The three of us had formed a bond during our training. I knew Jeremy cared for Demi as a friend. It was refreshing that Demi came off strong. The situation was urgent, but that didn’t mean there wasn’t a certain level of audacity going on. As people who care about Demi as a person, it’s impossible not to be slightly irked by the situation. Yet, the marquis couple and Tyler looked surprised. After a moment of deliberation, the marquis spoke. “I will still pledge my loyalty. My son and I, are alive because of you. It’s only fair that we live for you as well.”
Demi turned his gaze to Tyler. “I will also be loyal to you, personally.”
“I do not care about tradition, nor about the pride of the nobility. The cost of placing me in this position is change.”
Oh my, so this is Prince Demetri. My heart fluttered at his regal appearance. Jeremy also looked quite taken with Demi in this moment. After the Aarden family pledged their loyalty, the marquis personally escorted Demi to his quarters. Jer was about to show me to another room when Demi stopped us. “Taya, your room is here.” My jaw dropped at his declaration. The marquis looked back and forth between us. The quick witted Jeremy grabbed his fathers arm and quickly dragged him away. Demi opened the door for me. For some reason, this threshold seemed daunting. I calmed my pounding heart and walked in the room.
| Author Notes |
Character List
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Tali’s sister Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Tali: Taya’s step-sister. Part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Tyler: Nickname Ty, Jeremy’s older brother, part of a mysterious group living in the mountains Silvester: previous duke and Demi's mentor Marquis Couple: Father's name is Peter. Their children are Tyler and Jeremy Relative info: Peter and Tyler participated in the war, which Demi had won. The group has come to the capital to get rid of the tainted. Reference chapter 26 for additional info |
By Erika Whittle
Oh my, so this is Prince Demetri. My heart fluttered at his regal appearance. Jeremy also looked quite taken with Demi in this moment. After the Aarden family pledged their loyalty, the marquis personally escorted Demi to his quarters. Jer was about to show me to another room when Demi stopped us. “Taya, your room is here.” My jaw dropped at his declaration. The marquis looked back and forth between us. The quick witted Jeremy grabbed his father’s arm and quickly dragged him away. Demi opened the door for me. For some reason, this threshold seemed daunting. I calmed my pounding heart and walked in the room.
**********
As soon as I entered the room, Demi closed the door. I didn’t know what to do so I just stood there. Demi leisurely watched me. “I’m not going to eat you, unless you want me to.” he smirked.
This rascal. I laughed, and the heavy yet awkward atmosphere dissipated. I sat on the bed and looked Demi square in the eye. “Perhaps I want you to.” Demi lifted an eyebrow and chuckled darkly.
“Don’t tease me too much, Taya. Originally I just wanted to spend some alone time with you. Let’s forget about the mission and training for a bit. I just want to relax and enjoy some time together.”
I nodded. I wanted that too. Sometimes I miss the time when it was just us against the world. No politics. No finality. Just living in the moment and doing our best. “Yah”, I whispered. Demi approached and I raised my arms to embrace him. We stayed like that for a while, me sitting and Demi standing with my arms around his waist. It was comforting.
“Demi?”
“Hmm?”
“I wasn’t teasing you. I want...that connection. I want this moment to be all ours.” I left the rest unsaid, but Demi understood. Only this moment is guaranteed. The world doesn’t owe us a tomorrow or a second chance. Demi leaned in and kissed me. We started slowly, almost cautious, and then passion took over. Demi lay on top of me on the bed and I pulled him in even closer. I stripped off his cloak and we both freed ourselves from the shackles of clothing. I gasped and took a moment to appreciate the site before me. This specimen of a man, though covered in scars, was the most beautiful being I had ever seen. I was so memorized I failed to notice Demi’s intense gaze, until his hands started roaming. I suppressed a moan when his hand cupped my breast. Once again his lips met mine while his hands explored my body. My breathing grew rapid. He kissed down to my neck, my clavicle and my waist. The lower he went the more ragged my breathing. Sensations I’ve never experienced took hold of my rationality.
“Taya, are you sure?” Demi feigned calm and asked for my final permission.
“I’m sure, I want you.” I declared, gently touching his lips.
It was impossible to stop after that, and I let myself get lost in the tide. Demi had more energy than me and I eventually fell asleep, exhausted. When I woke up, everything was clean and a delicious smell filled the air. My stomach gurgled. The bed shook with Demi’s suppressed laughter. “I had them bring dinner to the room.” Demi handed me a tray with hearty looking stew and a plate of roast chicken and potatoes. I hastily accepted it and dug right in. I got half way through the plate before I realized that Demi was watching me instead of eating.
“Aren’t you going to eat?”
“I’ll eat later, I’m full from dessert.” He shamelessly replied. I almost choked on my potato. I glared at him and he gave me a satiated smile. I shook my head and continued eating while Demi fiddled with my hair. “Taya, I hope this wasn’t a one time thing. I’d be rather heart broken if I got used and dumped.”
I quickly swallowed my food before he could continue. “You think I’d let me first time be a fling? Let me tell you, your title won’t save you from me if you dare play around.”
Demi raised his hands in faux surrender. “I wouldn’t dare. But you know, if you stay with me, you’ll share my title.”
“Titles, don’t interest me; you interest me. And we’ll have to succeed for that title to mean anything anyway. Just live and I’ll be right beside you.” Demi kissed my forehead. It was a long but meaningful night.
| Author Notes |
Taya: Female lead, orphan, aura user of wind, Demi's hunting partner, Tali’s sister
Demi: Male lead, Demetri Von Arstine, prince, duke, aura user of fire, expert swordsman, Taya's hunting partner Jeremy: Nickname Jer, 2nd young master, book worm, sword skills, aura user of earth, hunting partner of Brandy, younger brother of Tyler Aarden Family: Marquis family, family of knights. Marquis and his eldest son Tyler previously participated in the war with Demi. The second son was a hunter with Demi. The family pledged loyalty to Demi |
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