Freedom Creativity Imagination Insanity

Chapter 4

2010-05-15T23:44:00.002-07:00

Chapter 4 – Traitor…

My head hurts…like hell as something seemed to be constantly pressing hard against it. My body ached terribly and I loathed to even move a single muscle. With my eyes closed, I lied back in a sitting position back against something concrete, probably a wall. I couldn’t seem to record what had happened beforehand, all seemed so blurry and vague. And the constant headache pounding right into my mind was not a great help either, only adding on to the foul mood that I was currently in. Deciding that I should move whether I like it or not, I placed my palm flat on the seemingly cold ground, and proceeded to push myself upright. The sudden stinging pain at my chest confused me at first, but after that, a chain of memories flooded into my mind.

The enemies, the slash, the captured, the power, the escape.

All these flashed past before me as I recalled what happened just now. With one hand on the floor for support, another on my wound to apply pressure, emotions conflicted within my mental being as the previous scenes flashed before me. Anger, desperation, were two of the few emotions swirling within me. But as my mind stopped itself at the scene whereby that new sense of power engulfed me in its embrace, I went stock still for a moment. That feeling I had felt just then was gone, that feeling of power and confidence had left me… and surprisingly, I felt rather empty, as though a part of me had been ripped away. Though I know not where it came from, it should be within this body right now, hidden away somewhere… but the question is… why do I even have such a mystical power in me in the first place…

Opening my eyes, I was welcomed by semi-darkness. A very dim light source hovered nearby, probably a half broken street lamp or something. Looking up, I spotted the moon hanging in the sky. With great amount of effort, I adjusted and managed to press that god forsaken button to check the time. 8.30pm it read, and I was almost shocked by the amount of time that had passed. Doing a mental calculation in my head, that battle should not have lasted that long… it could only mean that I was out cold for several hours… I am really lucky that I was not disturbed or discovered by anyone or anything in this… alley?

Finally, I took a look at the foreign surroundings, squinting my eyes hard to get a vague observation. It was very narrow, with several unknown shapes toppled all over the place. My guess was garbage and trash, from the retching smell that wafted into my nose; it was wonder I did not smell that early. Looking to my left, was a dead end, a high brick wall blocking my sight. And to my right, was, I supposed a street, but a deserted one at that. From the past few minutes of staring at the narrowed version of a street, I spotted only a few haggard people that had walked past, staggering in their steps.

A bark in the distance made me realized how awfully quiet it was, and that sure heightened my dulled sense for me. I had forgotten that I was in an unfamiliar place, and as to the reason why my magic deemed this place to be safe… was unknown to me as well. I had to get back to the rest, find a way to communicate with them… not to miss out the two wolves too. After they had sprinted off into the woods, I have no idea what had happened to them at all. At this reminder, I prayed for the safety of my most probably captured friends, praying hard that they would be spared from the worst of torment…

With a grunt and a great amount of astonishing effort, I forced myself onto my feet. A sharp pain assaulted me, and I paused in my simple action of standing. Leaning against the cool wall for support, I shut my eyes tightly as I waited for that wave of pain to pass. I drew comfort from the cooling sensation the wall was providing, trying to concentrate on that sensation instead of the stabbing pain at my chest. If I have had the energy, I would have tried to heal it, or at least close the wound to prevent further blood loss. But I was utterly drained and did not even have the energy to talk, not to say heal. Stealing a glance at my wound, I found that blood was seeping out, though at a slow rate. It had already painted a whole part of my shirt red, and would be still continuing to do so if I did not do something soon. My training about first-aid finally kicked in as I used my free hand and rummaged about my bag belt. It was pure luck that it was still attached and intact on me.

Cursing and swearing in my mind as I fumbled about for the right pocket, I almost sighed in relief as my hand got the right one. Giving it a quick tap on the small sensor to recognize my signature, it vibrated a little to alert me before the zip popped open. Pushing my hand inside, I felt for a cloth like material and pulled it out, hoping that I got the right one on my first try. Staring at the miniature thing in my palm to make sure it was indeed the right one, I clenched it in my hand a little before letting go. The mini shirt soon started to grow, and was back to its original shape in a few seconds. Wasting no time, I rested my back against the wall and proceeded to tie this shirt around my wound as much as I could.

After a few grunts and curses, it was securely around my chest, stopping the blood and at the same time, numbing some of the pain as well. Letting out a huge breath that I had been holding, I reached for the same pocket again and pulled out something. Using the same movement, the thing soon returned to its original shape too, just that this time, it was a black jacket. Wearing it and zipping it up to cover my wound, I pulled the hood to cover my head. I checked to make sure that I looked presentable (so that no one would notice that I was ever in a fight, yes, paranoid.). Feeling much warmer and better now that I had settled my needs for the moment, I did the usual drill – check my supplies.

Making sure that I was hidden away safely and inconspicuously in the shadows that alley provided, I checked my bag belt to see what I had on me. It was about a weeks worth of food, or maybe two if I ate only once a day. I have also a few shirts and pants as well, with an extra sword and a goggles. Unfortunately my supply of energy replenishing syringe had run out as well as other supplies of first aid…

Cursing my damn luck, I tugged on my jacket for one last time. Mentally, I was begging any deities up there (though I hardly do so as I don’t really believe there are any such beings), hoping that my wound just would by a pure stroke of luck, to not get infected. I did not have any medical items with me, and if the wound really got infected, other symptoms of fever, cold etc will accompany it. Currently in a predicament, it was just not wise to have another unsolvable problem to add on to my list… not that begging would help seeing how I had left my wound unattended for a long period of time.

I took a deep breath before making my way out of the alley, after making sure that no one was near of course. Looking around, I realized that though it was a normal street with lampposts and shops lining up at the side, all were in a shrubbery state. Some of the lights had flickered out completely, while the buildings look a century old and about to fall apart any time soon. Scanning around to see if I could get any more information, I wondered in my mind if I was in the town nearby our place. The buildings style and pattern reassembled the town that Tyol and I will use to visit to restock our supplies… just that this part seemed to be the part that they called the slums or something… and just when I thought that the part that we always visited was the worst…

This place is probably still somewhere in the country, Hauntod, a seriously underdeveloped country. It has the lowest of standards, no matter in terms of economic or social terms, it was right at the bottom. Belonging to Vehu’s colony, this was one of the many countries that Vehu had no time to bother to bring peace and hope to the desperate and starving people. It also was a long distance away from Vehu, a supposed ideal place if those peacocks haven’t come storming in.

Resisting the urge to rub my weary and tired face, I chose the direction right and started an aimless walk down the almost deserted street. Keeping to the right side of the street to remain as shady and inconspicuous as possible, I let some thoughts run through my mind. Why did my magic bring me to this place? It must have sensed a familiar or unthreatening presence, a soul that would probably help me or something. But the point is… where is that presence that I unmistakably fail to see or sense?

Suddenly, I bumped into something solid and that jerked me out of my thoughts. I was welcomed by a brown coloured material, and instantly realized that I had bumped into someone. Looking up, I was staring straight into a pair of onyx eyes that held a dangerous glint to it as it glowered at me with a predatory gaze. The person, a man had his head covered with a hood as well, revealing only half of his face. Unable to break away from his intense stare, I gulped audibly and was about to mumble out an apology when my magic stopped me. The magic that I thought that was supposedly depleted as it suddenly flared up with intensity again. However, it was not in an unfriendly manner, my magic did not want to hurt this person in front of me at all… instead, it seemed to be flaring rather happily, as though eager to sense the person’s magic… as though it acknowledged him…

Normal point of view

The two people stood frozen to the ground, locking stares with each other, each holding a contemplative look on their faces as well. The moment Athen’s magic returned to life again, the mysterious man sensed the rise in magical energy as well. Athen failed to notice the man’s eyes widen for a fraction second, before returning to its unwavering stare. The man’s previous thoughts of his current mission faded away as he focused on this boy in front of him. Doing his usual routine of checking and analyzing, the man confirmed that this teenage boy was a total stranger to him, someone that he had never met before. And yet, the man’s magic seemed to say otherwise, as it too, was suddenly rifled up after the rise in the boy’s magical power. He noticed that the boy had noted this as well, from how his body had stiffened for that fraction of a second.

Puzzled and obviously confused by this being in front of him, the man was currently at a loss as to what to do. In normal circumstances, it would just be a glare at the person, and then he would glide off without even a look behind. However, this was obviously an unusual circumstance, whereby both of the males on the street had no idea what to do at all. Both had wanted to just ignore the other and continue on to their own agenda. That was however, their sensible part of their mind, but yet, the core of their body, their magic, had refused to let them commit such an action. The magic seemed to know something that they are unable to decipher, and seemed not to be in a hurry to tell them at all. It was just contended that their partners are not making a move to leave, so that the two individual magical power could basked in each other’s presence for a time being. Their partners were utterly confused at why their magic was acting this way, as though they were long-time friends. But of course, the time simply wasn’t right, and both magical power just hummed silently in the background, contend that they got to see each other for that short period of time.

Both figures were still staring at each other, hard, not having move a single muscle at all. It would have probably continued for quite some time if not a for a sudden pulse of familiar magical energy that had caught Athen’s attention…

Athen’s point of view

I have gazed far deep into the depths of the man’s eyes, a black sea that was surprisingly raging with emotions. I would have guessed him to be a frigid person from how he had glared at me for the first time, but it was rather easy for me to pick out all the emotions conflicting within him, from his black orbs. He and I were both very confused and utterly puzzled.

Suddenly, a spark of a very familiar energy sparked to a high level in the distance, before disappearing as sudden as it has appeared. I widened my eyes in sudden epiphany, and filled with a sudden urge to rush to that very place right now, I broke my gaze with the man. With a mumbled ‘sorry’ out of politeness, I brushed past him without a further glance as I quickly made my way to the designated place. The image of the man I just encountered disappear and faded away as I focused my tried to use that little magic I suddenly harness to quickly plot out a rough geography of the place. I managed to pinpoint the location of the energy, and almost failed to restrain that spark of happiness in me from plastering a small smile upon my face. If he was here, could it mean that the others are safe as well?

The person was only a few meters away from my previous location, and having memorized where it was last sensed, I made my way towards the place. With quickened steps, I hurried and turn a few corners before reaching a one-leveled building, a run down one that is. Its appearance was the same as the others, painted with a faded brown colour and with several visible dents on it. Stopping in my tracks, I eyed the front door suspiciously as I stared at the half open door. As tempting as it was to just stroll in through the door, it was a front door after all and that paranoidism, as I called it, refuse to let me go on with such an action, even if there was a person I desperately want to meet was in that building.

With an annoyed inaudible sigh, I resisted the beckoning of the door and made the long way into an alley beside it. Knowing that there was sure to be a back door hidden somewhere, I scanned the area a while before finding it hidden away at the darkest part of the alley. Though my hood constricted my vision, I still managed to find my way to the door without much trouble. I pulled open the unlocked door, and was glad that it did not give out any sound that would reveal my presence. Slowly and carefully, I closed the door back again softly before turning to look at my new surroundings. The living room, I presumed, was empty and vacant save for a few pieces of furniture. I have thought that this place had been deserted for quite some time judging from its appearance, but a single speck of dust was no where to be found. Looking around vigilantly, I noted that there were about four rooms, all locked and safely closed except for a single door to my right. It was left open with a small little gap, giving me only none but a little pathetic view of the room, that I was barely able to identified anything in it. It may have been a trap to lure me in it by the peacocks, or it may be some mistaken identity or it may really be just my paranoid nature after all. But it was better to be safe than sorry. Making sure not to make a single sound, I made my way carefully over to the door, already guessing that there would be occupants in the room.

Pressing myself flat against the wall beside the door, I craned my neck to better hear the mumbled conversation. It seems that there were about two people in the room, and from their tone, they were having a rather heated argument. At that point of time, the most sensible thing to do was probably to get out of that place and wait for further chances since I would not be able to protect myself against two probable enemies. However, curiosity overwhelmed me as I inched a little bit closer to the gap and strained my ears to try and decipher the content of their conversation.

The mumblings were clearer now, and I finally managed to grasp what they were conversing about. Though the moment I heard that voice, the content seemed not to matter that much anymore.

“…pect me to calm down?!”

Yes, I was him…It was him, Kly Glint, my friend…

I almost let out a huge breath of relieve, absolutely comforted by the fact that at least one person from area 1 was still alive and breathing just fine. About to just fling the door open to greet Kly, I stopped in my steps when I heard a unfamiliar voice. This time, as my cogs started its work automatically again, I realized that Kly was in a heated argument with the other occupant in the room.

“Fine! Don’t calm down then! You can be agitated all you want but just make sure that you don’t go rushing out to rescue that group of yours! Calto will have my skin if you ever disappear on me!” the male stranger retorted back with the same amount of intensity. The content was alien to me, as I did not really understand what they were talking about, and how Kly got to know such a person in a place like this in the first place. And the addition of another person, Calto if I remembered correctly, wasn’t really helping me at all in this puzzling situation.

Moving my way closer and closer to the gap, I held my breath and pushed the door with a little bit of force to allow myself a clearer view of the room. Pushing back my hood in irritation, my eyes squinted hard as I try to make out at least the layout of the room if possible. Then, Kly’s figure came into my view and as expected, I saw Kly, who was red in the face as he continued to argue with the stranger. His tone had increased in tone and volume, but the moment my eyes landed on the stranger right beside him, my whole body went rigid.

Three letters ‘D.O.H’ was clearly printed on the stranger’s uniform.

My mind recognized the appearance, especially the name, and for that particular moment, I just stood there gaping mentally, as wild thoughts swam through my mind in waves. Sudden anger overwhelmed me as I realized what all this could mean. This situation itself was already enough to prove that Kly was guilty; as I could practically link all the possible horrid things he had done to land all of us in this predicament. The sentimental part of me was screaming that it couldn’t be him, for I had known in for several years. Rather than a back stabbing bastard, he was very loyal, especially towards this group of us. It must all be a misunderstanding, and that the scene in front of me could be totally another matter. However, another part of me just shook its head in disappointment and stated that people change, and when they do, you would never know. It was true, and that part of me won the emotional war within me.

Narrowing my eyes in fury, I ignored the possible danger of getting killed and just kicked the door open with brutal force. The occupants went silent for a moment as both took in my appearance. For that few silent moments, I was panting hard, trying to keep my temper in check but failing miserably, though I managed to convince myself to give Kly a chance to explain before I seriously lose it. It took Kly a few long moments to truly comprehend the whole situation, and when he finally understood that it was I who was standing in front of him, he broke out into a huge grin. Still, he must have seen the killer look on my face as his eyebrows furrowed deep in confusion. He glanced at me, then took a look at the other occupant who had remain frozen so far, before something clicked in his mind. His eyes widen in realization and his mouth dropped open immediately.

“…look, At… it ain’t what you think it is… just let me explain…” he started to blabber as he tried to close the distance between us.

Shooting him a fierce stare, he stopped his movements. When he got the notion that my silence was the signal for him to continue, he took a deep breath and opened his mouth to say something. However, he must have realized another matter as he closed his mouth again. Such an action was repeated for several times, his appearance almost that of a fish. Chewing hard on his lips, he shot a pleading look at me and I sensed his reluctance to dispel what was on his mind. It probably had something to do with the dark secrets that each of us had stored deep inside us, something that we all do not like to delve upon or reveal to anyone else. I understood how he feels, as I too have such gloomy secrets within me. It was something that I would never ever let it to surface again, something that will remain hidden within me for the rest of my life. Still, I needed to know whether or not he had betrayed us.

“Are you the one that reveal our locations to them?” I inquired coldly, all the while keeping my eyes upon Kly’s figure. If I ever observe a single movement from him that points clearly to his betrayal, I would not hesitate to beat the living hell out of him.

Fortunately, he did not freeze like a guilty culprit; instead, he shook his head furiously in obvious denial. Such a movement comforted me, and I let my tensed body relax. Smiling softly to myself, I mused mentally at how flustered Kly was as he continued his string of ‘I am not the one’ and ‘you’ve have to believe me’. He was still not convinced that I had believed what he said and was desperate to get my trust back obviously. Knowing that any tries to stop his blabbers were futile, I wistfully stood there with a silent gaze upon him, waiting for him to stop. When Kly saw my gaze, he finally stopped and shut his mouth, locking stares with me.

“I trust you.” I muttered softly, probably too soft but Kly heard it and promptly flash a huge grin again.

As he make his way towards me, I suddenly remembered the other occupant in the room. I was still unable to believe that my mortal enemy was standing in the same room as me. Snapping my head in that direction quickly, I flashed him a dark look and narrowed my eyes in suspicion. The man was unmoving, though his eyes met mine and we were locked in an unrelenting staring competition. Strings of unanswered question raced through my now fatigue mind, as I realized how tired and weak I was. Still, I refuse to appear languid, and held my stare stubbornly. I felt Kly’s presence beside me as he placed a hand upon my weary form.

“At, he ain’t the enemy… you may not trust him… but please, believe in me…” Kly pleaded softly, giving my shoulders a reassuring squeeze.

I aimed a look at him, and back at the now glaring stranger. Though it was still a wonder that this peacock over here still had not charge and me and slash my throat to end to life, I found that there was no other way but to trust Kly for now. He wasn’t attacking me, and doesn’t seem to plan to do so anytime soon. Deciding I should place my trust on Kly, I straightened myself and moved into a casual stance. After the stranger, with blond hair now that I had time to take in his appearance, rose from his defensive stance too. Still, his golden eyes were trained upon me, probably going to note my every single move from now on. Snorting to myself mentally, I was about to stretch myself when a sudden flaring pain was felt at my chest. Cursing and swearing under my breath, I reprimanded myself for forgetting about that huge gash on my chest. I had felt it open even bigger from that the various small movements I did just now. Ignoring the curious glances aimed at my sudden gasp, I tore off my jacket and the temporary bandage, throwing it all onto the floor carelessly. Taking in deep breaths, I applied pressure to the wounds in a feeble hope to stop more blood from flowing out. I felt more lethargic all of a sudden, as the previous events took its toll upon me. There seemed to be a rise in temperature, and my eyelids felt heavy; the very thought of giving in to the blackness that was appearing into my vision was heavenly.

Suddenly, arms supported my weak body and I hazily noted that it was Kly. Too overwhelmed to notice the scowl upon his face, I leaned into his body for support and comfort, as my eyes started to droop. Vaguely, I heard Kly said something, but it all seemed so unclear and distanced. I couldn’t bring myself to care about it too as my eyes started to close. And soon, I had drifted off into dreamland, thoughts of my wound long forgotten.

Normal point of view

“At…? At…?” Kly called out softly as he eyed the slumped form in his arms.

When no response came from Athen, Kly started to swear uncontrollably under his breath, using a colourful range of vocabulary that had the other occupant, known as Bret Batyel, widen his eyes in surprise. Kly quickly lifted the light form of Athen into his arm and proceeded to the nearby bed with careful steps, cautious not to cause any more damage to his already infected wound. How on earth Athen could have walked around with an unattended wound like that and not even falter in his steps or speech till then was a mysterious to Kly. Still, the main point now was to quickly disinfect the wound and make sure that it is closed and bandaged to prevent any further harm.

Placing Athen upon the bed gently, Kly used what little medical knowledge he had and inspected the wound. It was not deep to the point of death, but it soon would be as lethal if he did not do something to stop the blood soon. The first thing that he would usually do to is start the whole healing process now, as time was precious. However, his short imprisonment in the peacock’s headquaters had depleted his magic to the point that he would only have enough to probably set up a simple ward or something along that line. Kly eyed the ominous gash helplessly as panic welled up in him.

As for Bret, he was eying all of these calmly from a side as he wondered to himself how the kid had managed to even get this far from the D.O.H’s attack. From what he had heard, the group was actually situation more than fifty kilometers away from this town here, known as Siredian. It was fairly impossible to teleport that far, not to say that the kid had showed no signs of serious exhaustion. He may have just walked here, but it was yet again not possible, as an injured person who had used up most of his magic after the fight could not possibly cover the long distance in that short amount of time. All the possibilities just did not add up; the kid wouldn’t have that much of magic to spare, and the distance was just simply too far for even a magic user like himself to teleport to. It was something that Calto would definitely want to know about when he arrived, and Bret also figured that Calto would be rather… pissed… by the presence of another ‘annoying’ kid as he always put it. Bret could not help but smile to himself as the image of an irritated Calto popped into his mind.

“Bret…Bret!” Kly called out in a rather loud voice, and Bret snapped out of his thoughts, looking at Kly questioningly.

“You know first-aid skills right?” Kly inquired slowly, and Bret nodded his head in response, already guessing where all these were heading to.

“I can’t patch him up back to the original state…but I can disinfect the wound and close it up… “ Bret answered and moved towards the limp form of Athen, kneeling down to take a closer look at the wound.

Without words exchanged, Kly used what little magic he had left and with a wave of his hand, set up some simple wards on the room. It was something that they should have done so in the first place but they were in a rather furious argument and apparently not even the adult among the two was sensible enough to set up wards for defensive purposes. Kly and Bret were both rather hotheaded people, just that the redheaded Kly was fortunately much sharper than the gold haired adult at times.

As Bret concentrated a certain amount of magic into his palms, he eyed the wound critically before changing the output, and then altering it into the healing form. With his now glowing white palm, he run that palm over the wound, making sure that it was disinfected first. Kly watched the process at a side, holding Athen’s hand in his to give Athen some sort of comfort. At that moment, Kly was not only worried about Athen suffering even more anguish from that infection, but also in a dilemma to whether tell Athen the truth about himself. Since Athen had witnessed the whole situation so far, and that their group now was in such a horrible state, perhaps Athen deserved to know his real identity. However, it may also at the same time complicate things even further and the chance of his identity being known to the enemies was higher too. Not that Kly did not trust Athen to keep a secret, but it would be dire if that information was ever ripped out from his mind.

A soft groan was heard, as Athen squirmed a little at the discomfort of his wound being disinfected before quieting now again. Kly squeezed Athen’s hand in silent comfort, and then moved his eye to the source of all these trouble. The wound had now stop bleeding, and Bret was very focused on his task. The disinfection process had ended as the white glow dissipated, and Bret nodded in satisfaction. Kly had heaved a small sigh of relief and Bret moved onto the process of closing the gaping wound. Still sleeping peacefully away and apparently dead to the world, Athen’s breathing had even out as he took in deeper and calmer breaths now. Kly could not help but smile a little at the blissful look on Athen’s face, an expression that could only be seen when Athen was asleep. It was a look free from any hostilities, free from any worries and with a tinge of childishness to it. It was an expression that was supposed to befit children like their ages, they should not be worrying about wars or attacks, they should be enjoying their lives, their childhood while they still can. However, in this kind of situation Antel was in now, it was barely possible for youngsters like them not to be on constant vigilance to make sure that they stay alive.

“There… all done,” Bret informed as he wiped the back of his hand across his forehead, and he could see the Kly relaxed his previous rigid body, “Er, you can bandage and make sure that he doesn’t open that wound again?”

“Of course, thanks by the way,” Kly thanked and bowed a little, before starting to unpack his own bag belt for the necessary bandages. Bret inclined his head in acknowledgement, before he moved off to a vacant chair and settled himself.

With nothing else to occupy him for now, Bret sat there in a horizontal position, legs placed over the arm of the chair. He was staring into blank space, though not to the point that he would not know if a person ever steps into the room. Now that he had a little time on his hand, he let his eyes drift to the limp figure. From what he had heard from Pr…he mean Kly, that boy was known as Athen Gantz. At first glance, he seemed to be just any other ordinary boy, but on a deeper notion, he seemed to be something else altogether. Bret’s gut feeling was telling him that there was more than meets the eye, and never for once had his gut feeling betrayed Bret before.

“Bret… do you know when Calto would be coming back?” Kly questioned as he covered Athen with a blanket before turning his head towards Bret.

Shaking his head, Kly absorbed that information. Suddenly, Kly stiffened slightly as his eyes hardened. Bret raised one eyebrow mentally in question, and when their gazes met, Kly intoned in the most authoritative voice had ever heard before. It was a tone that people of his status should always be using, and it surprisingly fit his image now. Kly now held himself highly, back straight and head held up. His chest was out, hands placed behind his back in a confident manner, and the aura he emits now was one that was totally different than before. The present Kly bore a more distinct resemblance to his father, and his father ever saw him now, he would be indeed be very proud.

“Don’t tell At anything for now… please…” Kly pleaded softly, though there was still that tinge of authoritative tone behind it, indicating that he would use drastic measures if Bret did not did as what Kly had told him to do so.

Bret blinked at him for a few moments, and nodded his head, an indication that he would heed his master’s son’s words. Even if Kly haven’t ask so of Bret, Bret would still have kept his mouth sealed as he would need permission from Kly to even mutter such a secret to anyone considered as enemy. Kly gave Bret a soft smile, before letting his own gaze return to his injured and currently recovering comrade. With tones of questions in his head to ask Athen, Kly dragged a chair to settle himself beside the bed. Though Kly was never a patient person, he would have to wait for now for the puzzles in his head to be solveed, and these questions held some similarities to the ones that Bret was currently thinking about. After all, it was indeed a puzzling situation that Athen failed to notice himself.

Though the both Kly and Bret had now forgotten about the issue beforehand, the matter they were arguing about before Athen interrupted, it would still surface; it was just a matter of time. The root of the argument was actually about a rescue plan that Kly at first wanted to execute. It was a little rash on his part, as he had just escaped from that very hellhole with the help of his faithful comrades, Calto and Bret who had hauled him out of there with a little manipulations and cunningness. Kly’s magic was drained because of the bands that was previously placed around his wrists and ankles, and he would be sending himself to the devil if Bret had not stopped him from rushing out like a rash guy he was…though it was not without help from Athen’s sudden appearance. For now, the matter was pushed away, as both occupants stared into blank space. Both were obviously not in the mood to get into any more arguments, and seeing the fact that Kly wasn’t about to bring back up the issue of their argument, Bret was more than satisfied to keep his silence.

The silence hung in the air, interrupted only by a few occasional soft gasps from the still asleep Athen. Kly looked at him worriedly, guessing that it was probably one of the nightmares that he would always have. Though he would never admit it out loud or express it openly, Kly actually cared about the little ‘pest’ Athen. Even if both of them got into arguments before they would exchange a greeting, the arguments were often good-natured, filled with playfulness and cheekiness. It was their way of communication, and they were supposed to stay together as one whole group after all. It was just plain childish to act immaturely and be on bad terms with one another. To ensure their survival, it was vital that everyone cooperates and fulfills their roles, or they would be doom within a short amount of time in this harsh world.

Looking away, Kly looked at the ceiling and let out a huge sigh.

It was going to be a long day…

Chapter 3

2010-05-15T23:44:00.001-07:00

Chapter 3 – Disappear

I slumped my aching back heavily against the tree bark, sighing in relief in the momentarily comfort that the tree gave me. For the past few moments just now, was probably the most lethargic, and most infuriating moment of my fourteen years of life. First of all, it took me almost a whole half an hour to totally persuade the group that the whole situation of the wolves that came to stay with us… though the main problem was Tyol, being the worry wart as usual.

‘ Goddamn wolves, now I am starting to wonder why I even try to help you ‘

I mumbled in my mind audibly, loud enough for the wolves sandwiching me to hear me. They perked up their heads and looked at me. Fulcrey gave a lopsided grin as he nudged his head playfully against me, and my hand unconsciously placed itself upon his head, scratching him between the ears. Fulcrey let out a soft growl of blissfulness, before lying back down and returning to his peaceful slumber. Silnartogas on the other hand, seemed to cock an eyebrow at me in amusement, apparently mused by my frustrations. As thoughts of the conversation just now reveled in my head, my right hand absentmindedly found its way to Silnartogas’s head. Patting his head in a soothing fashion, I did not notice that Silnartogas soon placed his head upon my outstretched legs, eyes closed in contentment.

Just now, Tyol pointed out another frustrating problem caused by the mole. By now, the mole most probably would have given those peacocks wind of our hideouts, making this place we are currently residing in a dangerous place. We had to scout for a safer place, but with everyone’s spirit dampen and motivation depleted, it would do no good to break this news to them now. The kids would not be able to take it, and it would do more harm than good. That was the reason why Tyol sent them of for a break. He wanted to let their strained mind rest, before absorbing this information too. And then, we would make a move as soon as possible, and possibly meet up with Jacquer’s group.

“I don’t think that we will have any chance of escaping from them smoothly this time, since time is not on our side. The best solution now, is to meet up with Jacquer, and then formulate another plan to save those that are captured. We need as much manpower as we can, so I think that it would be the best to let the kids rest for now,” Tyol started of, looking around at us for any objections for a moment before continuing, “All the words that I had said just now is true. It’s just that I left out the part about us meeting up with them.” This time, he couldn’t suppress a grin from surfacing, probably proud of his cunningness.

“Rina, I want you to run to Area 26, and tell Jake that we will meet him at Area 24, latest by midnight. Rail will most likely be together with him too. Remind him to set off as inconspicuously as possible, and if there are any attacks, send the signal, and we’ll try to go provide support as soon as possible.” Tyol instructed, and Rina nodded, quickly making a move to start the tedious journey.

“Don’t push yourself too hard.” Tyol frowned.

“I won’t,” And with a fast spurt, she was off in a blink of an eye.

Now, I probably only have a precious 45 minutes of rest, since I was doing a little patrolling around just now. Paranoid as I always am, I checked and triple-checked the surroundings, expanding my sensing radar to see if there were any foreign presences. Fulcrey and Silnartogas, who were informed about our current predicament, had also put up their guards. Their more heightened and acute senses was going to be a great help, and Tyol was then more than happy to let them stay… after a test consisting of Quiylanlanzo hiding the food and having them guess what was hidden of course, with them passing with flying colours. I also put up additional wards that will trick and harm the enemies if they ever get near. Of course if there was a ward breaker with them… I don’t think that it will work though.

Looking at my wristband, with a press, it showed 11.30pm. All the actions just now have cost a few hours, but it was necessary though I am quite tried out now. I relaxed my strained limbs, and closed my eyes to rest in a fruitless attempt to sleep. With so much problems arising, it was currently impossible for me to even get a wink of sleep. One was because I am worried that an enemy attack could occur at any time, and two, the memories will most definitely infiltrate my sanctuary of peace and quiet that moment my mind drift off to dreamland. I rather not sleep than to face my past. That time, it was my fault, my mistake. I will never forget his face, his words, and most of all, I will never forgive myself.

I opened my eyes slowly, and stared up at the canopy of trees. The leaves had blocked the most glaring of the sun’s rays, and the small constant wind caused the leaves to rustle slightly in tune. His words rang clearly in my eyes, and a sense of solemnity and sadness welled up in me…

Live on At, live on… if not for yourself then for me…don’t blame youself because you and I… both know that it… ain’t your fault…

Tears threatened to fall as I was forced to recollect the horrid past. I blinked the tears away and wiped it on my sleeves. Deep down, I know that it wasn’t my fault, but I couldn’t help but push all the blame upon myself, because it was really because of me that caused him his precious life… all because of me…

…Crey, do you sense it?

Silnartogas’s heard perked up all of a sudden, on full alert as he stared off into the distance. Fulcrey did the same thing too, sniffing at the same time, as though trying to sense something. Both of them went stock still for a moment, before each emitted a low growl, teeth bared as they quickly sprung to their feet.

At, go alert Tyol right now. Get out of here quickly.

Before I could ask them anything else, they were gone in the speed of light, the floating dust the only small sign that indicated their previous presence. Confused as I was, something quickly clicked in my mind and I too, sprinted off in Tyol’s direction. This all could only mean one thing.

They have found us.

We have to get out of this place immediately, and start running; with our current strength right now, we will not be able to handle the big force they had probably sent on our way. Now, I could also sense the hidden magical presence of over fifty foreign presences, well-hidden one though. I reprimanded myself for letting my guard down, all the while swearing creatively as my tried legs continued pumping themselves to work. Finally, I spotted the familiar shade of orange hair, and practically threw myself at him.

“…Run… run! Now… run! Peacocks…here… run…!” I muttered incoherently, waving frantically at the same time. I was panicking, having no time to sort out my emotions yet.
Fortunately, Tyol managed to decipher my message, and his eyes widen in utter shock, before turning to a deep frown. By instincts, his right hand flew to the hilt of his sword, and he placed a firm hold upon my shoulder.

“At, go to that area and get whoever you can. We have to split up and travel to area 23 by different routes to keep them guessing,” Tyol frowned as he listed out his instructions, and I nodded my head in rapid acknowledgement.

With a heavy sigh, he looked at me straight in the eyes and said, “Be careful At.”

Just three simple words, but it meant a lot to be as Tyol expressed his concern. Giving him an affirmative pat back on the shoulder, I too sprinted off into the direction where Elit and Horane resided. Near them should also be Vintel and Negil. The rest should be in a vicinity somewhere, whereby the rest of them will take charge. Focusing on my task ahead, with my senses all on full alert, I sprinted up the tree and shook Horane and Elit awake. Though they were disgruntled and hazy because of sleep, their training still managed to put them on alert. With a silent nod from me, they got the message and quickly checked and packed their stuff. I leaped down the tree, and ran past a few more before climbing up another. Gently but hastily, I shook Negil’s and Vintel’s shoulders. Their eyes opened, and upon seeing me, they got the message too. With trained speed, I leaped down again and landed softly on my feet, with two more accompanying silent thuds behind. With a quick look behind, I nodded my head again and ran off, heading back in the direction I just came from. As we zoomed past the first tree, Horane and Elit both jumped down and started to sprint after me.

With stealth and skills, we avoided all the branches and twigs, leaping over the bushes as we continued running. The wards had already been broken down about two minutes ago, and I could sense that the peacocks were also advancing in a rapid speed. I could vaguely draw out a map consisting of the routes, with allies as blue dots and them as red; we had scattered out of area 22, with different groups escaping in different directions. Obviously not as dumb as I thought them to be, the peacocks too, separated into groups, each consisting of about at least ten men. One of such group was hot on our heels, but I made no move to look behind, for it will only add on to the fear that was overpowering all of us. One of our golden rules was to look straight and run, even if you know that your enemies are behind you. Looking behind will only hinder you speed, and such a mistake will eventually cost you your life.

Though our adrenaline was making sure that we are not to stop and rest, the enemies were catching up with us slowly. They were trained soldiers, adults after all, with years of experience upon them. They are definitely faster and deadly than us, I had to admit, but even if that was a fact, it did not mean that I would bow down to them.

Surprisingly, my heart was beating in a calm manner, and my mind was clear from fear and trepidation. It automatically started to formulate a viable plan, whereby I could protect the kids from any harm. I predict the possible consequence of me getting myself captured. But I must hold on to my oath, whereby I swore that I would not let these kids suffer any of the torture that I had went through, even if it means that I was to die.

“Negil?” I whispered for him softly, and was rather shock about how low and serious my voice was.

“Yes?” He answered smoothly, and caught up beside me to give me an inquiring look.

“The enemies are catching up.” I stated bluntly, and Negil hardened himself, pushing down his emotions before giving a short nod in acknowledgement.

“I know.”

“We can’t outrun them.”

“I know.”

“The only solution now, is that I buy you guys sometime. I believe that you know the way to area 23 by this route?” I questioned, my eyes straying to him for a moment to meet his wavering black eyes. The rest were listening to me too, silently, with no comments.

I could practically sense the conflicting emotions in him; on one hand, his sensible and calculative mind knew that this was the most reasonable solution, but on the other hand, it would mean that he had to abandon a comrade and feed me to the peacocks. I was also placing a heavy burden upon his tiny shoulders, for it would be his job to lead all of them to safety; he did not believe that he could handle such a job.

“We don’t have much time Negil… I know it’s difficult, but please, I don’t want you guys to get capture…” I pleaded softly to Negil, who had looked away to stare straight ahead, with a contemplative look on his face, “You know that I trust you.”

His black eyes were dull for a moment, before it fired up with determination. He nodded his head in acceptance, having made his choice. I gave him a small smile, before I skit to a stop abruptly and did a heel turn to face the back. The rest continued on with their run, not sparing a probably antagonizing look behind. Their footsteps faded into the distance, and there was a moment of total silence. I could hear my heart pounding slowly with each calm breath I took. My eyes scanned the surroundings, already sensing the enemies’ fast advance. Without further ado, I created a horizontal invisible barrier behind me with a simple flick of my wrist. Closing my eyes, I dumbly noted that the red dots were moving in fast and swiftly. However, I also noticed something else – there were two more blue dots, stood unmoving somewhere about more than a 100 meters away. I couldn’t sense who it was, but I knew that they have also made the same decision as me. After all, if there was no sacrifice, there will be no gain.

The sound of the bush rustling alerted me of their presence, and the moment my eyes flickered open with an antagonizing slowness, I was already surrounded.

“Well well well, what do we have here? Kids trying to be heroes?” a man to my front mocked sarcastically, and the rest soon chorused their agreements with guffaws.

Making no move to rebut what they have just said, I stood stock still as I allowed my eyes to take in their appearances. They were as usual dressed in their full battle gear. They were covered from head to toe, revealing only half of their faces. Most wore either a helmet or a bandana to covered their heads with, similar ominous black eye goggles. Same coloured uniforms wore, it consisted of simple dark-blue shirt and pants, with a pure black army vest and a rather huge machine gun slung across their backs. They had a belt tightly secured around their waist, holding several unknown weapons. But with the shiny glint that those weapons reflected off, my guess was a pistol, a sword, or a dagger.

“You know, it’s ok if you dream to be a hero. But the point is, you aren’t one.” The same rough voice was heard again, before it turned down by pitch and volume.

The moment my eyes blinked, an empty space currently occupied the man’s previous presence. The shiny glint was all the warning I had before I took a hasty step backwards. Through his goggles, I could see the dangerous glint it held; callous and ruthless. There was not even a vestige of sympathy; he was more than ready to kill me if he had to.

Unhesitant, I pulled out my own sword too and held in steadily with my both hands. I planted my feet firmly to the ground, and kept my eyes constantly scanning the men who had me surrounded. I aroused the burning magic within me, and with a war cry, I charged at the man before me. My sword burst into flames to match my mood, and the moment the magic blended in together with me, pure excitement and bliss bubbled in my being. I felt light all of a sudden, as the flames lick my skin in comfort, encouraging me to make my next move. I obliged.

Raising my sword high up, I hacked it down with precise force at the man. He was stunned for a moment before he quickly did a swift heel turn to his right, avoiding my hit by mere inches. Not giving him a moment to recover, I placed the hilt into my right hand and swing it towards him again. Now that my magic was here with me, in this battle, everything seemed to be moving slowly. As my sword inched its way to its target, the man’s eyes widened in shock, before he quickly tried to take a step back. However, my move has probably caught him off guard, and I managed to nick him with a minor cut on his chest. As blood oozed out of his fresh wound, I could not help but let a smirk plaster itself on my face. Sadistic, some people might say, but this was reality. Only the strong ones will survive.

“Why you little…!” The man was unable to complete his cursing before I sprinted forward and aimed an accurate swing at his neck. Caught off guard for a second time, he could only looked at me with widened eyes, before those eyes dulled and rolled upwards. With a thump, his lifeless body hit the ground, as pool of red soon encircled him. It was by pure luck that I managed to kill him; I won’t be so lucky next time. Now, it would be a fight of magic against magic.

Though it was not my style to kill, it was a matter of life and death here and I value myself more than them. Pathetic acts of sympathy will only get you killed, and I have learnt that the hard way. It was kill or be killed, as simple as that.

Sudden silence filled the air, and satisfaction filled my whole body. Nonetheless, I pushed those feelings back, and put back on my warrior mask. The smirk disappeared, as I turned and faced the crowd again with a serious glare. They seemed astounded, as they stood there stock-still. However, their trainings must have kicked in as several broke out of their trance. Hands flew to their individual weapons without hesitation. They got into their fighting stance, half crouch as they waited for the first move to be executed. A little part of me wanted them to charge at me like some thickheaded idiots, so that I could unleash my hungry flames and burn them to crisp. But atlas, they were not as foolish as I thought them to be.

Two of them charged at me, and two more soon replaced their empty spaces. They knew that having a whole lot charging at me and screaming murder was of no use. By sending different people up to fight against me simultaneously would eventually tired me out, and then they could capture me with ease. My mind had already registered the harsh fact that I was of no match to them, but for my team’s sake… I will go pass my limit.

The first man, dressed in standard gear, all covered except for his mouth and nose, was using the same element as me. He too, lit up his own sword. Before I could look out for the second guy, this fire elemental was already hacking his way into me. Each slash and cut was precise and forceful, and I had no choice but to go on the defense. My wrists felt numb and jarred as they withstand each powerful blow, but I persevere and hoped for an opening. Up, left, right, down… I predicted each of his move and dodged it all successfully much to his dismay. With an impatient grunt, he threw a fireball at me and it was by pure instinct that I managed to avoid it with a swift body turn. Not wasting any time, I was about to summon my own fireball and aim it back when I was hit by something electrifying and definitely numbing that rendered me motionless. This fraction second was all the man needed as he sprint forth and slashed his sword horizontally at me. I let out a choked scream as his sword entered into my flesh painfully. His flames burnt at my skin, doubling the pain that I was currently in. As the sword made its exit, blood started to flow out from the rather deep wound and I quickly used my free hand to apply pressure on it. The triumphant grin upon his face was unmistakable, and when I wiped my head around then did I notice the thunder user behind me. Smoke was willowing out of his outstretched palm that was directed at me, and it was obvious that he was the culprit that had numbed me just now.

I held on to my sword tighter, and gritted my teeth in an effort not to let out a single whimper of pain. The wound he inflicted was quite deep, judging from how my sight was already getting hazier and hazier by the second. The world seemed to be swaying, determined for me to fall, but I would not give up that easily. My sword burst back into furious flames and with a yell I threw a fireball towards the unsuspected fire user. Caught my surprise, he raised his hands to block the ball of flames, and hence also blocking his sight. Taking my chance, I charged and attempted to pierce my sword through his chest. However, was stop short again when the same numbing sensation caught me off guard, but this time, the electricity was much greater than before. Stunned for the second time, I fell to the ground in utter defeat, my defiant limbs refusing to move. From the corner of my eyes, I saw the fire user smirk in victory as he gestured for his companions. One man stepped into my view as I panted, wondering what the hell they were trying to do. The man that stepped out had his lips curled upwards. Holding his palms out, I saw something started to flow smoothly around his balls in a swirling motion, a white-blue substance…

Oh shit.

Water was technically harmless in a way, but being a kind of weak and injure fire user was not helping the situation at all. That smirk on his face was all I could register before my whole frame was engulfed in a huge water ball. Water stung at my eyes and my grip on my sword loosen. I heard its drop to the floor as the flames sizzled and died. My hands flew to my burning throat in a desperate attempt for an intake of air, as my legs kicked out wildly. Bubbles escaped from my mouth and I even tried to swim out of the terrifying water ball but to no avail. I wanted to compose myself, but my lungs were constricting and water gushed mercilessly into it. Choking and gurgling, I started to see spots of black and white in my vision. Just when I thought that I was going to lose conscious, the water disappeared all of a sudden and my body hit the ground. I was kneeling on the floor, half bent as I used my arms to support myself. Sent into a choking fit, I patted myself on the chest as hungrily took in large amounts of air. Oblivious to the world, it wasn’t until a few moments later then was I able to breathe normally.

Suddenly, something connected hard connected with my back and I hit chin first onto the ground. As dizzy as I was, I was still clear minded enough to know that someone had kicked me and sent me sprawling onto the floor. Ignoring the sense of vertigo that overwhelmed me as I stood, I crouched down into my fighting stance again and looked at the water-user. The other two had retreated back into the crowd, probably having decided that he was more than enough to take care of me. The world was swirling, turning, and I was very much tempted to just lie down onto the floor and close my eyes. However, I was in a middle of the fight, and as enticing as it sounds, it would be the death of me the moment my body falls.

“Well well well, you ain’t bad for a little runt you know?” The water user spoke mockingly as he played around with a newly conjured water ball in his palm.

“Shut up,” I croaked, putting as much hatred and loath I could into my tone.

“Why don’t we see if you can take another hit huh?” he spoke again, ignoring my previous statement as he pulled back his hand and flung the water ball at me.

Pushing the thoughts of pain in my mind away, I let my instincts take over as my whole body twisted to a side and dodged the attack. From the corner of my eyes, I caught sight of another water sphere heading towards my head and quickly bent down to avoid it.

It was apparently a fatal mistake.

I lost sight of my enemies for that single moment, and that moment was all it took for the water-user to close the distance between us and send me rolling to the side with a nicely aimed kick. My limbs were depleted of its energy, but the adrenaline pumping through was enough to force me to stand up again and face the enemy head on. My attacker had another water sphere in his palms again, as he lazily threw it up and caught it again. He altered between palms as the sphere was flicked from his left palm to the right, and from the right back to the left. His stance seemed casual and unprepared, but from my experience with these arrogant fools, I knew better than that.

“Not bad, you’ve got the spirits. If only you were not born with such filthy blood, I am sure that you will be of great service to our country,” he started yet again as he continued to close the distance between us. I eyed him warily and managed a glance behind, only to be devastated by the fact that I had nowhere to run to if that man continues to advance towards me.

“Anyway, just to let you know. If it weren’t for the orders from the higher ups, you probably would have been long dead already,” the speech goes on while I listened half-heartedly, my eyes on a constant surveillance of the surroundings as I hoped to find a loophole to escape. He continued his advancement towards me in a relaxed stance, and I had to resist the urge to make a mad dash for freedom. I had no doubt what he will do to me if he ever managed to be a good distance from me. And to compound to that, my pathetic magical energy was nearing to the end because of the gash across my chest. If he ever gets close enough to me, that gash wouldn’t be the only one that I would be receiving.

“You are rather quiet compared to the other brats I have seen before. Usually, they would be all pleading for mercy and screaming in fear by now… oooh, how I love to hear those screams…preferably from you now…” this man was apparently deranged judging from how his lips curled up into a sickening grin. I had to stop myself from cringing in fear; I would not give him the pleasure of seeing my weakened and helpless state. I had done that once, and from that day onwards I swore that I would never reveal my weaker side to anyone.

He still had that look on his face as he moved towards me in a torturously slow manner. The crowd seemed to be enjoying this show of predator and prey too as they watched on, no one was going to stop this crazed man; they are probably going to enjoy the show too. A bunch of sadistic freaks as I would say.
He was less than a meter away from me now, and I was officially a cornered prey. However, he suddenly stop in his track as his free hand flew left ear. He completely froze for a moment before he started nodded his head, as though in acknowledgement. And then, a malicious grin appeared on his half-hidden face as he allowed the hand to return to its original place. My sixth sense was telling me that something bad was going to happen. I was hoping to prove it wrong, but the words that came out of the man’s mouth next confirmed that my sixth sense was proven right as always.

“Hey runt… don’t you think that… something is wrong right now?” he quizzed as he continued to play with the sphere in his hand, and at the same time, moving towards my left.

Automatically, I moved towards the right to avoid getting cornered any further. As to his question, I only furrowed my eyebrow in confusion and suspicion. He could be trying to distract me for all I know… but on the other hand, he may be telling the truth…

“How about I give you a little hint? You have this skill called magical sensing right? Why don’t you try using that to…” the man started and I tuned him out halfway as something clicked in my mind.

I quickly tracked down the blue dots, and realized that the other three dots were in the same predicament as me. All of them were surrounded by a huge number of ominous red dots, however, one of them was moving of already. The blue dot was surrounded tightly by the red dots as they moved away, seemingly back to their base. Identifying that as Drakelieu, I only clenched my teeth in an attempt to quench the rising anger within me.

Snapping back to reality, I narrowed my eyes upon the man, who only gave a grin in return. The same sphere was being thrown around again, from left to right, right to left. Circling each other like animals, we each waited for the opponent to initiate the first attack. All the training and beatings I went through before commanded me to keep my anger down, and I did as my mind started to assess the whole situation again. My analytic skill wasn’t the best, but I had a vague impression of each different outcome; apparently all weren’t favourable.

Grimacing mentally, I braced myself to fight bare-fist. I threw a desperate look at my fallen sword a few meters away, knowing that I would long be killed before I could even get a grip on my beloved weapon. Averting my sight back onto the man, I eyed him like a hawk, looking out for any signs of him wanting to attack me.

“From what my teammates said, I believe that one of your friend was captured already, no?” he questioned as he stopped moving, and I too follow suit. Not planning to answer his rhetorical question, I only stared hard at him, which he returned back with an unwavering gaze.

“And from what I heard too, the other two aren’t faring that well either. My teammates said that those two are still fighting despite the injuries that we have inflicted upon them, and oh boy was I shock when they reported too that they managed to cut down about five or more of our men…” At this his tone lowered by pitch, with an unmistakable malice in it and I could not help but let a smirk surface. Looks like Quiylanlanzo and Tyol are faring off quite well. It was expected, as they were some of our best fighters.

“…But… that’s not the point of this whole conversation runt…” he picked off from his last sentence and left his words hanging in the air. I perked at his words and I frowned at him.

“The point is…” he started, apparently happy that he managed to get my attention, “I heard a scream just then in the background. A rather loud and horrid one mind you…and it probably didn’t come from my teammates…”

I did not like where this conversation was going.

“And it wasn’t one scream… but two… and… it was just simply beautiful to hear them scream like that…” he said as his face twisted into a horrible grin.

Rage filled my whole body as I tried to restrain it from bursting out of its cage. The horrid images that filled my mind when he said it was almost enough to send me into a rampage, but the more sensible part of me was there to stop me from doing such a rash thing. I must control myself…compose and think with a clear mind… don’t let my emotions control my actions, was what Tyol always preached…

“And once they are finally captured… I can’t wait to torture those low-life filths… and clean the world of disgusting beings like you…!” He spoke in an awfully calm manner, but that was the last straw and the fury beast within me was let loose.

With a yell, I charged madly at the startled man who was frozen to the spot. A red haze constantly clouded over my eyes but I ignored it and started to lash out at the man with a fury of attacks. Unfortunately, he managed to dodge all my attacks, though barely as he quickly shifted into a defensive stance. All I could see in my vision was this arrogant and pathetic man before me, and the only thought in my head – to cause as much harm to him as possible… how dare this revolting man even thought of trying to torture my friends… I will make him pay for it…

I did not know where the new burst of energy came from, but I did not pay particular attention to it either. All that was in my mind was to land a square hit upon this man, and make him suffer for even having such thoughts… I will make him pay… I will make all of them pay!

I want to hit him… hurt him…

Kill him…

Normal point of view

Athen had this maddening glint in his eyes as he delivered each blow with precise force, aiming for all the vital points on White’s body. Being an adult that had tones of experience in the bloody side of war, he was of course not the least bit afraid of this small fire user trying to harm him. He wasn’t afraid of that. The fear that was settling in him was because of the awfully familiar glint in the boy’s eyes. Dodging each blow after another, White couldn’t tear his gaze away from the boy’s eyes. That dangerous and deranged glint Athen’s eyes held seemed so familiar and yet so strange at the same time. White could swore that he had seen that glint somewhere before, but couldn’t remember where he had seen it before. The tingling sensation in his scars seemed to be trying to remind him of a certain memory that was left buried in his mind, but White couldn’t remember it at all. Giving up, he focused back into the battle.

Athen was still trying to land a hit upon White, and by the looks of it, wasn’t planning to stop anytime soon as he continued to swing out punches and kicks. His brows were furrowed deeply and his whole face rigid with concentration. Too immersed in his current thoughts to hurt White, he had forgot that he was in the midst of his mortal enemies. Though squad three could have taken him down very easily, these kids that were constantly trying to run away from them provided them with the entertainment these warriors need. The thrill of seeing these weaklings try and fight back seemed to pump them up with excitement. So upon seeing these little kid here trying to fight back for freedom, they were simply in no hurry to destroy their source of entertainment so soon. However, what they simply couldn’t get was why their captain, water-user White, wasn’t fighting back for the first few minutes. Their captain could have easily subdued the kid and make him realize his own place in their society. And yet, here he was avoiding and dodging instead of reciprocating. Still, they watched with bemused looks. They were younger and of lower ranking then White. They did not have the rights to question his actions and did not plan to do so at any time soon.

Having focused back into the battle, White was dodging the attacks even swifter and faster, having anticipated Athen’s next move. The look Athen had on his face still had the same awful tinge of familiarity, but White wasn’t about to let that distract him in a battle. Moreover, Blue and Red had already reported that they had successfully captured the other two of the kid’s friend. Yellow had also reported in that the two mysterious creatures have also escaped after suffering heavy firepower from their team. Though it was always his style to tease his preys and mocking them senseless, White wasn’t planning to waste anymore time as he wanted to quickly get on with the interrogation and find out their other hiding places. Then, when the information is in hand, they could return back to Vehu, their beloved country and cleanse the world of these dirt. Of course, not everyone is expected to have the purest of blood flowing within them. But those that doesn’t have the blue blood sure be kneeling down and bowing their head in submission instead of defying the King’s orders and trying to escape the law.

White moved his head to the side as Athen’s fist brushed past. Having used too much power in that punch, Athen lose his footing and plunged forward. Taking up the chance, White swiftly grabbed his right wrist and pulled him towards himself. No matter how Athen tried to regain his footing, it was futile. Widening his eyes in shock, Athen braced himself as he landed hard on the ground with a thud, which was followed by a foot that had planted itself upon his exposed back. Athen grunt with effort to hold back his whimper of pain. That same glint was still visible in his eyes, and White almost hesitated when Athen sent him a glare. That same sense of familiarity overwhelmed White, and White’s scar tingled even more.

Where had he seen that glint and stare before…?

Athen’s point of view

I glared hard at him, mentally demanding him to let go of me. The same mist of red still clouded my view, but I did not care about it at all. The foot planted onto my back was still firm, unrelenting as I continued my endless struggle to get back upon my feet. I would not be subdued these easily when Tyol and Quiylanlanzo had probably suffered more than me and is still fighting desperately.

However, no matter how strong my determination was, it was reality that my strength was failing me. For the past few moments, my emotions had been fueling my strength, allowing me to lash out a few attacks to satisfy my own desires. Now that that moment of emotional turmoil had past, I found myself reverting back to my original state; weak and helpless.

I was panting hard, and my limbs were trembling from overexertion. My magical energy was nearing its end, and deep down I knew that it was inevitable that I would be caught and sent back to the base. Even our strong hatred wasn’t enough to overcome them, because it remains the fact that we teenagers, would never be able to overcome an adult unless we are a prodigy or something. Succumbing to my fate, I was almost about to stop my fruitless struggle and allow the peacocks to have their way when the next sentence I heard make me stiffened in anger.

“Hmmm… if a boy like you is already this interesting… I wonder what the even younger ones would be like…?” my captor hummed to himself and I could imagine the grin he had on his face.

I clearly knew what he was implying, and I found my anger reaching its peak for a second time that day. My sensible side did try to reason that if I used up anymore of my reserved strength, it might cause the death of me. But at that moment, when scenes of the kids getting captured by the peacocks, crying and screaming as they were mocked and teased mercilessly by them… I simply pushed all sensible thoughts away and let that newly acquired strength fuel my body. I yet again found myself focusing on the same thought as before, ignoring all other things.

I am going to hurt this man.

With an animalistic growl, I pushed myself off the ground with two hands. I managed to successfully get the man’s foot off my back and I could feel him stumble back in shock for perhaps the second time. I let a smirk surface, as I took the golden chance to land a hit upon the man. Conjuring two fireballs in both palms without hesitation, I combined both together into a single flaming sphere and flung it at the man. The speed I threw the ball at only allowed the man’s eyes to widen in shock because it hit him square on the chest. Things seemed to slow down as I watched the man lost his bearings and fall to the ground in a crumpled heap. It seemed unbelievable that I managed to down the man with a single shot, and I looked at my bare palms for extra confirmation. Closing my eyes, I felt a new energy flowing through me… similar to my original magical energy and yet different, as this power flowing through my body now was more fulfilling… and warming… it felt simply refreshing. It was unlike what I have ever felt before… and yet it seemed so similar too…

But atlas, good things never last forever, as I heard the enemies took out their weapons and prepare themselves. They were going to attack me. Though I had this newfound power within me, I knew it was foolish to attempt to take them down at this point of time when I had an injury and had overexerted my powers. I was almost astounded by how calm and composed I sound, but shook that thought away as I felt a rise in the magical energy surrounding me. When the only possible escape plan entered my mind, I almost berated myself for not thinking of such a thing before. Though it would almost mean leaving my comrades behind, I had no other choice as this was the only way that will ensure my survival. Throwing one last glare at my enemies and the heap on the floor, I allowed my powers to envelope me. With a single thought in my mind, my magic did as I willed, transporting me to somewhere else.

Safety, was all I thought, before blackness entered my vision.

Chapter 2

2010-05-15T23:43:00.001-07:00

Chapter 2 – Astounded

Athen’s point of view

I wiped my forehead as I managed to finish unpacking in recorded time. Being the paranoid person I am because of two certain somebodies, I yet again double-checked the whole camping space.

Magical sensing ward, check. Magical hiding ward, check. Camouflage ward, check. No sound ward, check. Limited area ward, check. Silencing ward, check. Magical and Physical protection ward, check. Vital signs hidden ward, check. Hidden smell, breathing and movement wards, check… then there is the alarms…

Magical sensing alarm, check. Physical and Magical contact alarm, check. Area under attack alarm, check. Trespassing alarm, check. Fire alarm, check. Unknown presence alarm, check. Immediate erase of magical and physical presence alarm, check.

That should be all for now… but I still get the feeling that I have missed something important out…wait a minute. I should have included the ward that will mimic the sounds and vital signs of an animal, a bird perhaps. So that when the peacocks were able to find this place(that will definitely take some time), they wouldn’t be able to find us if they caught us by surprise. Hmm… an illusion ward may be even better… let them see that there are actually normal animals and no humans so that they will leave this place alone… and there’s also a alarm that will leave a false trail for them… and that’s a good one. Maybe I should go and set it up now cause it is definitely a wonderful idea to lead the peacocks on a false trail when we are just hiding under their noses…

“At! Good to see you buddy! How’s your day? It must have been a wonderful one! Cause the sun is shining! The wind is blowing!” a familiar voice jerked me out of my thoughts and I froze for a while before turning a death glare on that person.

Said person was none other than Quiylanlanzo Zgniaro, leader of group 3. They must have just arrived.

Quiylanlanzo was just the same as ever, except that he was taller by a few centimeters and his black but with a little tint of blue hair was a little longer now. His little ponytail jutted out at an odd angle and his crimson eyes were still as piercing and scary as ever. Dressed in collared black shirt with fading colours and comfortable blue jeans, he still looked as mischievous as ever… not to mention another devil in disguise…

“The wind is blowing and Quil is dying.” I stated bluntly as I jumped down from my current position on a branch. Landing gracefully on my feet, I swiped some dust off myself and straighten out my shirt, hoping that I have put on a cool façade just on time. I so do not want Quil to know that I was caught off guard by his sudden appearance, which I failed to notice. Note to self, always be on guard or you will be catch unaware and the consequences will definitely be dire.

“At! How can you say that? I am so hurt! My fragile heart has been broken into million of pieces! Can’t you hear it shattering? Oh! Poor heart!” Quiylanlanzo cried out dramatically as he rested the back of his hand on his forehead, before falling to his knees as though he was really hurt by the imaginary emotional turmoil I had cause him.

“…Get lost Quil, I don’t feel like dealing with you today.” To get a dramatic and on the verge of insanity Quil out of the way, don’t beat around the bush and be as blunt as possible.

“AT! I specifically came to find you! How can you do this to me! My heart is afflicted by your cruel words again! My heart…” he started ranting and a shocked look was on his face, wide eyes and all.

“No your heart is already broken and it can’t be broken anymore.” I interrupted before he could continue his speech for I could already feel the oncoming headache if I was to let him continue.

“AT! Where are your manners? I am so disappointed in you! Have Tyol taught you nothing at all? Where’s the cute little toddler that I always see in the past? That little At was always so polite and formal! Not like this At I am seeing now at all! AT!!! Where’re you! Come back to me!” he sobbed in mock sorrow as he yet again fell to his knees and buried his head in his hands. Seriously, is he an actor or something? And for god’s sake, how can he be so dramatic and energetic at any time, any place and any day? Oh shit… the headache…

“…Quil… you were looking for me right?” I asked in a strained voice as I willed myself not to explode in anger. There was a time when I did not managed to keep my temper in check, and had lashed out at Quiylanlanzo, who not only did not look astounded, but actually grinned and flick at my forehead with his fingers. ‘Gotcha At.’ He announced proudly, before his grin got wider and he started to ruffle my hair. That few minutes were probably the most embarrassing and indignant part of my prankster life because I was actually prank by another person… a clear hit to my pride and no… it will not happen again.

“Oh! Yes! I forgot!” how can you forget for god’s sake? “Group 3 is here and Tyol’s back too. He asked me to fetch you because we will be holding a meeting. I get a feeling that he will be discussing about the recent attack just now because this whole matter is too suspicious. There is a mole among us and we need to dig him out…or her…” Quiylanlanzo started become he became deadly serious, signaling that he was deeply angered by the recent attack.

“Quil, calm down. It wouldn’t do you any good to get angry.” I said soothingly as I watched Quiylanlanzo’s frame shook slightly, showing his obvious disdain for the mole.

“I know… but I just can’t understand why that person will betray us… and most of all… who is it?” Quiylanlanzo questioned softly as he took a deep breath to compose himself.

No words were exchanged in the awkward silence, for I did not know how I should comfort Quil, or what I should tell him. Both of us shared the same contempt for the D.O.H, and we understood how horrendous each of our lives was. That was the reason why we could not understand how someone could betray us like this. It was not about selling us out to the D.O.H; what concerned all of us the most is the hit that that person had inflicted upon us. It hurts, to have someone that is as so close to you to betray you like this…

Advancing upon Quiylanlanzo, I placed a comforting hand on his tensed shoulders. I flashed a strained smile at him, and after a few moments, he relaxed visibly. Quiylanlanzo inclined his head slightly, indicating his thanks for my comfort. He gave me a warm smile, before jerking his head in the direction of our gathering area. Good, he’s back to the same old Quil again.

“Ready to go little At?” He inquired mischievously and I bristled in anger. Shooting him an irritated look, I ignored his triumphant grin as I made my way towards the gathering area, all the while trying my best to ignore that annoying beam of rekindled flame behind me… I am starting to regret my decision of getting the old Quil back… I preferred the new… quieter one…

Tyol’s point of view

Seriously, is it so hard to go and get Athen to come here? I know that it may be kind of hard to actually stop At from putting up all those wards and alarms, but come on… it ain’t that hard is it? Though I have to admit that little At being paranoid have got something to do with me…

Look, I was never an impatient man. But I had specifically told Quil that he had exactly five minutes to bring At here because without them, we can’t start the meeting, and without the meeting, there will be no plans, and without any plans, there will be no backups, and the exclusion of backups will lead us straight to the peacocks’ lair. So, if they don’t turn up in the next minute, I will personally make sure that they never turn up because I like things to go according to plan and for people to be punctual. Sure, only four minutes have passed but on time is late and I will not tolerate any kind of…

“Chill Ty, you’re gonna freeze the whole forest at this rate.” A person’s voice sounded from the edge of the clearing.

It was none other than Athen himself. Then, Quiylanlanzo emerged from the forest similarly after Athen. Both walked casually to an empty part of the area and settled down, seemingly oblivious to my seething temper. I bet that they are doing it on purpose just for the sake of seeing me getting all irritated over their immature behaviours. But I would not let them have such pleasure.

Pushing back down my irritation, I cleared my throat and scanned the surroundings once more. Mentally doing a headcount in my head, I checked that everyone was present. All eyes were on me as they awaited for my next orders and plans. They would have to pay close attention to what I have to say next, as it was of utmost importance and just a little slip-up would cost us all our lives. I would need to tell them the current situation, and then move on onto future execution and this week’s agenda. It is rather complicated, and needs everyone’s close cooperation for it to be totally perfect and flawless. And of course… after the kids go to sleep I would need to discuss the matter of the ‘mole’ together with the leaders.

Taking in a mental breath, I recounted all the pointers and important plans in my head before I started my talk. There was still several more point that I should address, but I do not want to add on to the whole group’s anger and despair anymore, for it would do none of us any good. For now, I will just have to keep it to myself before I discuss it with Rina and company.

Athen’s point of view

“So…we have once against been discovered by the peacocks…”Tyol started off rather jokingly, before continuing, “And we have escaped here safely for now and they would not be able to find us for some time.”

“As we have been discovered, we would need to find new places again.” Groans were heard but nonetheless, Tyol continued encouragingly, “I know that it is a difficult and tiring task, but I do not want to take the risk and return to the same place again. For we know, there may be traps or sensors, and before any of us can register anything, those bastards would have caught us already. And I do not want that to happen. So, no one, I repeat, no one is to go anywhere and leave area 22. Even if you have leave anything precious behind, you are not allow to go anywhere. Am I clear?”

Everyone nodded their head in silent agreement, as they knew how terrible it would be if we were to get caught. Those merciless scoundrels would do almost anything just to get their clutches on one of us…

A sudden memory flashed before me.

Pain.

I could feel it digging deep into my skin, crawling through my veins, turning my skin inside out, and setting it on fire.

Pain.

Warm blood was flowing freely, as more knives and needles were plunged sadistically into my skin. Each hit the right nerve, and managed to rip a scream from me.

Pain.

Tears cascaded down my cheeks. My throat was ripe from all those screaming. I was very tired. I wanted to just fade away and never wake up. But I can’t, because they wouldn’t let me just die let this.

Pain.

Laughter, guffaws. They were laughing at my pathetic state as they continued the torturing. All kinds of cruel and inhumane methods were used. Volts of electricity passed through my body, fire burning at my skin, whips lashed out at me, knives stabbed at me. Enough to cause excruciating pain, but never enough to cause death.

Pain.

Please, just let me die. I can’t take this anymore… please…

“…A…t…At…” a faint voice was heard, but I paid no heed to it.

The pain…the pain…just let me die…

“At…AT!!!” the voice was now louder and I was jerked violently from my memories.

I realized that Quiylanlanzo was shaking me; hard, as his hands gripped my shoulders firmly. Staring blankly at his concerned face, I looked around and realized that Tyol had stop talking. Eyes were upon me. Some mixed with solicitous; some just emit pure fear. I was rather confused about the whole situation, but when I felt that my cheeks were wet, the pieces fell into place.

I had let my emotions get the better of me, and let myself fall too deep into my memories. If Quiylanlanzo was not there to shake me… I don’t know when I would wake up from that nightmare…

“You ok At?” Quiylanlanzo inquired softly, treating me as a fragile object as he patted my back softly.

I could only nod my head numbly, then proceeding to wipe the tears off my face. I flashed a wane smile at the group, especially Tyol, since I could tell that he refused to believe my claim of ‘being ok’. However, the talk needs to continue and cannot be delayed any further. I have retained enough sense to realize that fact and I would not let my emotions overwhelm me again.

‘We’ll talk about this later.’ I mouthed towards Tyol, seeing that he still did not want to put the matter down yet.

Tyol placed a scrutinizing gaze on me, eventually nodding his head and turning his eyes back to the group.

I heaved a mental sigh of relief, for I hated such attention, especially something embarrassing like this. I know that they are just concern about me… but to think that I let my tears fall in front of so many people… I would need to work on maintaining my facade again cause it would not do to show such weakness. In this world, the weak would not survive, and I would need to be calm and confident to get through all of this. Crying would get me nowhere.

“You sure you ok?” Quiylanlanzo whispered softly as he continued to rub small circles on my back.

“I’m ok Quil, don’t need to worry about it so much.” I answered back in an undertone as I patted his arm in reassurance. His soothing had indeed placed a calm effect on me, and I felt much better now.

Just like Tyol, Quiylanlanzo stared at me in the eyes with his crimson eyes, observing me. He held his stare for a while, before nodding his head. Quiylanlanzo gave me a final pat on the back, before returning his attention back onto Tyol. There was a momentarily tense silence, before Tyol broke it.

“As I was saying… for now, we need to live here while a group of us, consisting of At and myself, would go and scout the area and then meet with the other groups if possible. Another group, consisting of Rina and Drake would go and find suitable places. The rest of you guys will stay here inconspicuously, with Quil and Sercia in charge. Your are to follow Quil’s and Sercia’s orders. I want no one to fool around, or treat this as a game, because this isn’t one, and never will be one. The last thing that I want to address is that if you’ve spotted any suspicious things, report to Quil or Sercia and also, if you see Lin or any other group members, inform them as well. Am I clear on this?” Tyol spoke in an emotionless voice, sharp eyes all the while scanning the crowd for their agreement.

The two groups nodded their head in consent; all with a serious look plastered on their face. It was true, for this was not a game. A mistake would cause us all of our lives.

“Good. For now, we would rest first before executing our plans tomorrow. Breakfast is at 7.30am, so don’t be late. But we may have another mini debrief later. For now, rest.” Tyol ended off with a smile as the crowd slowly got up.

The individuals started to scratch their aching bodies and some let out a huge yawn. The kids were obviously tired out by the activities, and would need to rest to recharge their energy. Though fear was clear in their eyes, I can also sense the strong determination. They do not want to get caught, and would do anything to prevent us from getting captured. Kids, they are, but yet they know how serious this whole matter was.

“Quil, At, Drake, Rina, Cia, come over here for a moment, we need to discuss some…” Tyol started off as he motioned for us and we slowly advance towards him.

Suddenly, a faint rustling nearby was heard.

It was faint, but I was confident that there was a rustling of the grass. Everyone froze in their movements and held their breaths. They were each rooted to the ground as their eyes started to scan the surroundings immediately. Each of them were in a half-crouched stance, ready to fight as their hands instinctually reached for their weapons. All eyes narrowed suspiciously as they swiped the surroundings for the source of such sound. Everyone was on guard, with their hearts pounding in trepidation. The tensed silence hung in the air as everyone took on their fighting stance to prepare themselves for what was to come.

They were right to be on guard, for it could those peacocks for all we know. We were trained for this – sound, freeze, guard, scan, defend, fight. It was a daily training that slowly became one of our instincts. It was such instinct that allowed us to survive through this kind of harsh environment.

Though I should also be in my fighting stance, and reach for the sword around my waist, I could not bring myself to do it. I don’t know why but there’s this voice at the back of my head, telling me that it is not the enemy that we are facing. It’s been telling me that they will be our allies, and that I should not fear them because they will eventually be the ones that become my greatest allies and family.

My sixth sense seems to agree with the voice too, as I cannot feel the usual danger that will hang in the air when the peacocks arrive. Instead, the atmosphere seemed to be that of a warm and calming one, not like the ones that were filled with tension and apprehension. And when my sixth sense registered this composed atmosphere, the adrenaline that was presently pumping through my veins disappeared immediately, and my body could not help but feel relax and comfortable.

The same sound was heard again, but this time, it was much closer.

Everyone was even more alert, as half of them drew out their weapons, ready to lung at any lurking shadows they manage to find. They are all very defensive and on a constant vigilance… but I don’t feel threaten by the sound at all… my gut feeling wasn’t screaming ‘danger’ at me; instead, my heart is telling me the word ‘family’. It was weird, and I fidgeted uncomfortably as I hesitate; should I follow my sixth sense? Or should I instead let the fighter in me take over?

There was the same sound again, but this time, we all knew where it was from.

Everyone quickly pulled out their weapons and held it in front of them. The sound came from the left, from the spot that Quiylanlanzo and I had just emerged from just now. Faint shadows could be seen and all tensed as their grips on their weapons tightened. They were practically waiting for the D.O.H to charge out and scream murder, for it could only be the D.O.H that will try to be so inconspicuous.

I took a step forward towards the sound. My only thoughts were on the flitting shadow that I saw. Unclear as it was, I felt no danger towards it. It also had… a strange power that is drawing me towards it… like a moth to a flame and soon… I was lost in my own world, with my thoughts focused on the shadows presented before me. The irresistible pull was far too enticing… I wanted to reach out and catch it… no matter what the consequences are… it seemed so familiar and yet so new at the same time. It was as though I had met with these shadows before but yet, I haven’t. Contradicting as it was, I could not deny that warmth feeling that the shadows had basked me in. That warmth was so enticing, so tempting, that I took one step and another towards the shadows. It was the warmth that I had always yearned for since I was at the age of seven.

What was that warmth called again…?

Tyol’s point of view

I am assured by the fact that everyone’s training had paid off, for the first thing that everyone done when they heard the sound was to get into their fighting stance. This will definitely ensure their survival, which means lesser worries for me. Only the strongest and fittest could survive, and even if it is abnormal for kids to have such a reaction to just a sound, it was necessary.

I let my eyes swiped around the trees, before I locked onto a single bush. That bush had rustled a little just now, and by the faint crunching noise that I heard, it was confirmed that it was not caused by the wind. I also caught a glimpse of a shadow flitting by… no… shadows to be exact… It was too far for me to confirmed anything, but as far as my instincts tell me, it will either be those peacocks… or animals that happened to reside in the vicinity… but the question now is… why didn’t the alarms sound off? And if it was indeed the peacocks, I am pretty sure that their movements are quieter and subtler than this.

My brain begin to analyse the situation, thinking of plausible answers. However, each just did not make any sense, for it just do not add up.

Suddenly, the noise was even louder and clearer now.

I saw a nearer bush rustle, and several shadows, confirming my suspicions. There was something out there. I do not know if they were hostile or not, but it was better to be safe than sorry and it was my responsibility to make sure that everyone was safe. It wouldn’t do to take any risks, especially in times like this, when we were practically being hunted by those damnable peacocks.

With a lightning motion, I grabbed the hilt of my sword and drew it slightly out from its sheath. I positioned myself towards the sound, my eyes not forgetting to continuously scan the surroundings. It may be the enemies’ intention for us to focus on that particular place and forget our surroundings so that they could take us by surprise. A common trick, but always the trick that will get novices into trouble.

My eyes caught sight of the shadows again, and I made sure that I followed its movements. It was too fast for me to confirm anything, fueling the doubt that was swelling in me. I was never the one to be so unsure of a situation, for if I do not know the details of a situation, I will not be able to analyse it. There will even be more risks and dangers to it, and I could not risk anything for everyone’s lives were at stake.

The fleeting shadows were still in my sight, but I looked around to check everyone’s status. Quiylanlazo had spotted the shadows as well, waiting for the enemy to make a move before he make his. Rina was the same too, her keen eyes probably having focused on the shadows long before me. She always had a thing for speed, like the magic user she is. Sercia and Draklieu though, had some trouble narrowing their vision onto the shadows, but at least they managed to figure out the rough position of the shadows. As for the rest, they were on guard, but unable to capture the position. They were all still struggling to focus their sights and use all their senses to track the enemy. And then there was At…

…What the HELL does he think he is doing?

Athen’s stance was shockingly relaxed. It was as though he did not feel threaten by the presence of a possible enemy at all. He was deep in thought about something, judging from how his eyes have got a glassy look in it. But this wasn’t a time to be thinking…it was the time when you should put all your survival instincts and knowledge to use and not just… stand there and not prepare yourself for a possible attack! What is he doing freezing like that? He will get himself killed at this rate!

Holding back the urge to bellow at him for being so lax and unresponsive to dangers, I tried to multi-task as I focused on him as well as the enemies’ movements. It would be our death to yell at him right now and alert the enemies’ of our presence. The yelling can be saved for later, but for now, everyone’s safety was my first priority… though I am starting to wonder why Athen is acting in such an odd way. He would actually be the first person to go into fighting stance when faced with plausible danger, not a person to be rooted to the ground and have thoughts flashing through his mind as he thought about something. I had always preached to him about how one small distraction could cause you your life, and I am sure that he had remembered my teachings and put it to several use before. Even I had saw how serious and deadly he could be at times, so I do not get why he was acting like this now… it was weird and odd for him to be so distracted… so there must a reason to his behaviour… could it be the shadows?

Suddenly, the rustling was much closer now and everyone had pinpoint it’s location.

Berating myself for not doing what I preach, my head swerved back towards the sound. It came from the same spot that Quiylanlanzo and Athen had emerged from just now. Straining my eyes hard, I tried to make out the shape of the shadows. However, I could not for the shadows seemed to be always a blur, like a black mist surrounding it and… there was also a small tingle of magic in the air now that it was closer to us. Now that the air reeked of magic, it only make my suspicions of the shadows being the peacocks even stronger since they were all magic users, and could be using concealment spells for all we know, and is making all those rustling sounds to either firstly, distract us, or secondly, trying to find us.

I pulled my sword even further out from its sheath, most ready to plunge me deadly sword into the enemies if they ever emerged into the clearing. Surprise would be the most efficient and deadly tactic in a place like this, and I want to grasp as many advantages as I can to assure everyone’e victory and hence, our life. My analytical mind staring to work its gears again as it processed and thought of every possible outcome of the oncoming battle. Mentally, I prepared myself for each of the outcomes in a few seconds and plotted a few escape plans if we ever needed them. If the peacocks were strong ones, Quiylanlanzo, Draklieu and I may be able to hold them off while the rest make their escape. Then, we will try to divert the enemies’ attention and lure them away before we ourselves escape as well. The next scenario can be whereby those peacocks are just some amateurs, and then we would be able to totally wipe them out and then proceed to go on with our original plan…

From the corner of my eyes, I spotted movements and this time, it wasn’t the shadows. It was Athen. He took one step in front of his current position. Before I could register anything else, he took another slow step forward, moving towards the forest where the enemies would be located at. He started to move faster and faster, advancing with more daring and quicker steps. No one seemed to notice his movements other than me. Throwing all thoughts of safety aside, I opened my mouth and wanted to attempt to stop Athen from doing such a foolish thing. However, the shadows were one step ahead of me as they finally emerged from the forest and stepped into the clearing.

My heart almost stopped beating when I realized that Athen was moving towards these creatures.

Athen’s point of view

They finally revealed themselves.

They were actually not humans at all, they were just a certain species of a four-legged beast. Magic was rolling of them in very small waves, subtle magic but I could still sense it. There were three of them in total; the biggest one in the middle while two smaller ones guarded its flank. Reassembling the body of a wolf, they padded softly towards me and stopped a few meters away. The middle one was had chocolate fur, with a reddish tint in it. Its snout seemed to be that of a lighter brown colour, and as it reaches its body and legs, the colour got darker and darker, into a dark brown, the colour of a tree bark. What was unique about it was the streaks of white at the end of its tail, the only white on its body. The other two, which seemed to be its off springs, had sleek black fur instead. The one to the left had black fur with a white heart-shaped craved on its face, wearing a white ‘sock’ on it left hind legs .Its body was also decorated with patches of white while the remaining black fur was highlighted with subtle streaks of white and red. The one to the right had the same tint of red and white, but this time, its snout was pure black, with a thin streak of white line running from its nose to the middle of its eyes. The younger ones were staring at me with onyx eyes, filled with doubt and distrust, but for the middle beast, it was staring intently at me with intelligent black eyes, as though calculating its next moves. So far, they made no move to attack us, and the rest of us were also just frozen solid to the ground by the appearance of three such animals that had a wolf-like appearance. They had all thought that it would be the D.O.H., but was proven wrong by the three creatures standing before them.

I finally found you young one.

A voice flooded my head, a feminine voice filled with gentleness and yet, sounded also worn and weary from all the possible troubles it has gone through.

Do not be alarm, for we mean you no harm at all.

It was the same voice again, but who could be speaking to me like this? My head swerved left to right, confused by the source of the voice. I was the only one to be able to hear it, and it was certainly directed so that I would only be the one to be able to hear it. No one here will be doing such a thing now… unless…

My eyes landed back onto the beasts, the middle one in particular. It seemed to incline its head in acknowledgement. If animals do really smile, I am sure that the one I am looking at is currently grinning, as though pleased by something.

Just as smart as I predicted. It will do my children good to follow you instead of me.

It was her then, it was that creature in the middle speaking to me… but is it normal for one to be able to speak to animals…? Or the animals to the human? There are magical creatures of course but why would one be here of all places and… it seemed to know me very well and their presence is also rather familiar…

Patience is a virtue little one, all that is in the dark will be uncovered soon with time. Wait, and the answers shall be revealed to you a little by little. And when all is known, then shall you face the cruel fate that awaits you.

My eyes blinked rapidly at her speech as my brain began to process the information. To say that I was confused was an understatement for currently, I could not comprehend what she was saying and why her presence seemed familiar to me. There seemed to be flashes of bits and pieces of my forgotten past in my mind, but it was never vivid enough for me to capture or remember anything, and I was even more puzzled by my memories. It was already rather complicated when I realized that she obviously knew about my past and it only confounded me more with all these bits and pieces of familiar pictures flashing before me…

I had never known about my first seven years of life for my brain held no memories of it. I could never remember how my parents look like, and for the past seven years, there wasn’t even a tinge of sudden remembrance of my secret past till now. This intelligent creature seemed to know more about me than I do about myself, which now frustrates me to no end. I hated not knowing about something, especially information that was about myself… and to make things worse… I don’t even get what the hell she’s talking about. Yes, I know that patience is a virtue but seriously… little one and cruel fate? What the heck?

Language little one…I know that you are confused and perplexed by my sudden appearance… and also rather… infuriated that I know more things than you. I wish that I could stay to tell you more, but my presence is needed somewhere else and I would need to leave as quickly as possible. These two… imps would be staying with you, for they will definitely slow down my journey…

I would have probably start glaring at her, for confuse was the oversimplification word for the conflicting emotions in me. However, after her statement, the two labeled imps flanking her simply glared at her with heated eyes, their eyes swirling with emotions. Raising my eyebrow in amusement, I could only blink at their antics as their mother held on to their stares alternatively and they seemed to be having an internal debate between themselves. Supposedly, I should be stunned and astounded by the knowledge she holds and also that fact that she is talking to me. However, for some unknown reasons, I managed to take this calmly; I could not bring myself to panic and be stunned there like some idiot, which would probably not solve any problems at all. BUT, the fact still remains that she knows more about my past and that she is a magical creature and that her off springs are apparently going to be staying with me…

Wait…staying…staying with me…?

It is decided then. They will be staying with you and they will offer you the protection and skills you need.

“Huh? Wait a minute you can’t just bloody hell decide everything yourself! I just met you and after leaving me in a complete bewildered state, you tell me that you are going to leave her children with me? I don’t even know who you are and what you are and you expect me to comply with you? Who the freaking hell do you think you are?” I snapped at her, ignoring the stares that were directed at me as I glared at the she-wolf steadily. Since she was going to leave soon, it would definitely be better to get some answers myself first. The said wolf in question seemed to cock her head to a side questioningly, before letting out a wolfish grin.

I am constantly amazed by your antics little one… you share the same temper and language as him… but yet, have his cunningness and both his and her intelligence…

…Huh? Who the hell is he and she? Can’t she be more specific and start answering my questions?

I’m afraid that I cannot reveal anything to you for now little one. The answers will be bestowed upon you on another occasion, whereby you are more prepared for it. However, for now, just accept this. You know that it is of no use to fret over something that I am not complied to tell you about.

Her words flooded my mind, and I nodded my head in silent agreement. It was the truth, for I could sense that she would not be revealing anything anytime soon, and fretting over this was a simple waste of precious time. Even if her children were to be left here with me, I could sense no malice from them. Placing my trust on the she-wolf seemed to be the best bet, and judging from her sincerity and the familiarity I sense from her… it was the best choice of decision now.

“Fine. Leave them here, but at least introduce yourselves.”

Of course, little one. The one on my left is given the name, Fulcrey, while the one on my right, is known as Silnartogas. As for myself, I am known as Volsurra. I am in a great hurry, and can no longer spend time together with you no matter how much I wish to. Please take care of them both. May the Derions watch over you.

I only had a moment to store their names in my head before Volsurra inclined her head for a final acknowledgement and bolted straight out of my sight. She was so rapid, that her motions were a blur. In just a blink of an eye, she was gone, leaving a trail of dust behind her. Fulcrey and Silnartogas seemed unfazed by her god-like speed, but the rest of us were simply astounded.

Can you please stop staring and start working? I thought that you guys had a plan to carry out something?

This time, it was a male’s voice, though it lacked the tone of an adult. However, the voice was harsh and humourless, at the same time, demanding. I turned and located the source of the voice. It was Silnartogas, who was looking fixatedly at me, with his head held high and his pose proud. He was a very arrogant wolf by the looks of it, and a grim one no less. Flicking his tail in an impatient way, he held his heated stare on me. I knew that I wouldn’t be able to get along with him because of his attitude.

Well? Can’t you hurry up and get on with what you are doing?

His irascible tone was unmistakable, as he was obviously angered by our lack of actions. This cause the fire within me to stir because I hated to be order around like a servant. Just after a few seconds spent with him and I was already very agitated by his behaviour. We would get into a fight sooner or later, because his personality is the polar opposite of mine. I would definitely be uncomfortable around him because I would probably start to throw insults at him even before he could utter a single word of disdain. Silnartogas deserved to know that he was not the superior one here; he must get the fact that he was not the one in control here.

Come on Sil, just a few minutes and you have already offended someone. Can’t you be nicer a bit?

Shut up Crey, I can do what ever I want

A new voice had joined in, sounding much kinder and affable. It was Fulcrey, who was now currently looking at his brother with pleading eyes. But being the cold wolf Silnartogas was, he ignored him. They continued their little quarrel, momentarily forgetting that we were all here as they continue to bicker.

Just because you are frustrated that mum left us here doesn’t mean that you can take that anger out on him! You know we have to leave mum one day and the day is today.

Of course I know that we have to leave her sooner or later… but leave us with this…human child? It just makes my blood boils to think that mother had thought him to be worthy of the Faron xil. He’s nothing but a pathetic and disgusting human… a human that can’t be trusted…

Anyone normal would have been in a rampaging fury on hearing such a blunt insult. But I did not feel that sea of red overtaking my vision, instead, pure understanding dawn on me as the sudden anger dissipated away. That revolt that one could obviously sense in his voice was filled with hatred and anger. It was of course caused by no others than us, humans, because my kind must have done something horrible to him for he to spit out our names so viciously. I could practically witness the various torturous memories flashing before his eyes, the experience that he had with my kind. If we humans have indeed hurt him in any way, he has the right to hiss out our name with such loathe, because he deserve to do so. I understand how he feels, to be hurt by someone, to be betrayed, to be caused physical and mental damage that would scar your mind forever. The physical wounds would heal, but the mental ones would take a very long time for it to recover, for it to again place that same faith in that species that hurt you. Silnartogas needs time to be able to trust and believe us, and I would most definitely give him that time, because today’s ally can be tomorrow’s enemy, and it is just foolish of someone to place faith in someone you have just meet.

‘I understand how you feel right now, and no, I am not angry. If my kind have indeed done anything horrible to you, you have the liberty to insult us in anyway. It is your right to speak of us in such a way, and I will not blame you because I too, have been a victim before. I know that the mental scar is hard to heal, but please, since you will be staying with us, at least try to understand and get along with us. I will give you my word that no harm will come to the both of you; to trust it or not depends on you. But you must know this, I have been in the same situation as you before and since time is what you need, I will give you exactly that.’

Was what I directed towards the wolves in front of me as I spoke from the bottom of my heart. We were both the victims of such situations, and I finally understood why he was acting so hostile towards us in the first place. My heart felt lighter now, as that rage in me had been replaced by the common mutual understanding that we both will soon share. Silnartogas does not trust us yet, and obviously did not want to be associated with us, but I really hoped that he will come out of that shell that he is currently hiding himself in. It was contradicting, how I now feel that I would get along with him just fine, and that I really wanted to have a friendship with him ; it must be because we share a common factor, being the receiving ends of situations of violence and betrayal.

‘So please, give us a chance, give me a chance and I will prove to you that your faith was not misplaced.’

I repeated yet again, emphasing on the point that I would not hurt him in any forms of way. I wanted to make sure that he knows that I am speaking from my heart, and that what I had said just now were just facts after facts, not a lie that I composed right on the spot just to gain his trust for my own sake. Really hoping that Silnartogas would at least give me a chance, I held a longing gaze on him, trying to pass him the message that I am conveying to him.

Silnartogas seemed taken aback, as his eyes widen in what seemed to be shock. He had lost that cool façade he had put on just now, and was now very silent. No more words were heard from him, as he was deep in thought. He must be thinking over the words that I had said just now, trying to put together the bits and pieces, to try and figure out if I was indeed a person to be trusted. The rest remained surprisingly quiet, as though knowing that they should not disturb us. After a few awkward moments, Silnartogas was still taciturn, his stare unwavering.

‘Please…’

I pleaded to him yet again when I saw the doubt in his eyes. I wanted no more than to be his friend, for I could already feel a small bond forming between the wolves and myself. Though I did not know where this irresistible pull to be on good terms with them came from, the urge to be good friends with them, to protect them was strong and I found it hard not to obey that call.

…Fine…but don’t expect me to be get all friendly with you…

Silnartogas stated in a resigned manner, and the corner of my lips were pulled upwards by such positive comments. I did not have his full trust yet, but at least he was willing to try, and that is the first small step.

‘Thank you. I believe that I haven’t introduce myself properly yet. I am Athen Gantz, nice to meet you.’

I spoke, directing a smile towards the wolves, who inclined their head in acknowledgement. Fulcrey was bouncing on his paws, excited by unknown reasons while Silnartogas still had the air of calm surrounding him.

Fulcrey! Nice to meet you!

….Likewise, and you already know my name, but I believe that…

Can I call you At? That’s what they call you right? So you wouldn’t mind if I call you At correct? And in return, you can call me Crey and my brother here Sil!

Fulcrey spoke in a very quick manner, and I could only raise one eyebrow in amusement at Fulcrey’s excitement and Silnartogas’s irritation. It looks like this kind of conversation would be rather common from today onwards and I would need to get used to it, because it was rather… lively and humuorous. As to replying to Fulcrey’s question, Silnartogas got to it before me and I quickly shut my mouth to continue watching their interesting conversation.

Crey, I did not give you the permission to do so and it is just plain rude to cut me off like that. So, as I was saying… I believe that you should…

So? Can I call you At? Can I, can I , can I? Please? Pretty please? With a cherry on top?

This time, Fulcrey took a few steps forward towards me. He was putting on a lost puppy look, his big watery eyes begging me to allow him to do so. I was never a person to like cute things like this… but I always loved animals unconditionally and I simply could not find any reasons to deny him of such a simplistic thing. With a small smile, I nodded my head in agreement and before I knew it, Fulcrey was jumping around, on cloud nine.

Oh yes! I love you At!!!

Shaking my head at his childish actions, I still could not stop that smile from planting itself on my face. As childish and immature he was, he was lively and his happiness was definitely contagious. However, Fulcrey failed to notice his fuming brother beside him. Silnartogas was literally simmering at his brother’s rudeness, and was trying very hard to suppress a growl from escaping him. Holding back a snicker, I continued to watch them, forgetting about Tyol and company as my mind was preoccupied by my two new companions.

Fulcrey…

Silnartogas growled dangerously but Fulcrey was either paying no heed to it, or simply unable to sense his brother’s annoyance.

FULCREY!

This time, Fulcrey heard him all right, and immediately stopped jumping. He frozed as his muscles went stiff, before he visible gulped and turn to face the erupting volcano. Fulcrey let out a nervous wolfish grin, revealing sharp canine teeth.

DON’T YOU DARE SMILE AT ME! IF YOU INTERRUPT ME ONE MORE TIME I WILL PERSONALLY MAKE SURE THAT YOUR FUR IS RIPPED OFF FROM YOUR FLESH! YOU HEAR ME?

Silnartogas finally exploded, baring his fangs threateningly at Fulcrey. Fulcrey let out small whimpers, retreating a few steps back with his tail in between his hind legs. A few long seconds passed, with Silnartogas fixing a fervent flare at him, demanding an answer. Fulcrey immediately nodded his head, all the while eyeing at Silnartogas fearfully. With a final glare at his brother, Silnartogas turned back to face me with a short ‘humph’. Fulcrey almost heaved a huge sigh of relief judging from how his body evidently loosens up. I expected him to shake his head in a grimace or of sort after such a sinister threat by his brother, but instead, a mischievous glint appeared in his eyes. Noticing my eyes on him, he eyes met mine and his lips were slowly pulled upwards, as he gave a wink accompanied by smile. Cocking an eyebrow curiously at him, I wondered what kind of evil thoughts were racing through his mind. And what was interesting was that my prankster side was practically whooping in joy at Fulcrey’s actions. It seems like I have finally met my partner in pranking then…

…o…i…oi…OI!

I snapped out of my thoughts and quickly adverted my eyes on Silnartogas. Shit… it seems like he was talking to me and I missed it…

‘ Er… pardon…?’

I asked politely. It was probably the most sensible thing to do for me to not get on Silnartogas’s bad side and trust me, I still want my flesh right at where it is now.

One could tell the Silnartogas was thoroughly annoyed from the constant twitching of his strong jaws. He was trying very hard to keep a hold on his anger, and I could sense that it would only take one more outright barbarian action to send him on an endless rage.

As I was saying… I believe that you should tell your companions of the occurring events just now… they have been frozen like statues for the past minutes and I fear that they will become one themselves if you don’t do something soon.

Silnartogas said, with an underlying tint of amazement as he glanced towards the whole group. Turning to the same direction as well, I had to suppress my laughter after seeing the looks on their faces. They plainly either astounded, shocked, or had just went into a state of utter shock and bewilderment… a more scientific term was acute stress reaction…

They were still frozen solid but I could practically hear the cogs in their minds turning noisily. Tyol was in a mental conflict, for he was probably very perplexed by not only the sudden appearance of three magical creatures, but also me because of my casualness and the waves of comfort rolling of me. He was quite deep in thought, and may have already come up with some answers himself judging by how an astute person he was. Rina’s eyes were constantly switching from the wolves to me, and then back to the wolves again. She was radiating an air of suspicion as she never once slackened her stance, not knowing what to do since I was the only one that had understood the whole event just now. Meeting with her eyes, she held onto the gaze for a few seconds, before reverting back to the wolves again, deeming them as threats judging by their sizes, and also their magical signatures. Drakelieu and Sercia were just… shock as they blinked in confusion. They knew that something was going on but they were standing on the borderline of the whole matter – charge at the wolves, or just stay put and wait for the whole truth to unfold. As for the rest, they were rooted to the ground, thoughts of alertness diminished as stupefaction swept through them. They knew that the wolves may be dangerous, but the question is, why did they not kill Athen yet?

As amusing and enticing it is to watch them going into a state of shock, I rather you hurry up and spit out the truth for I do not want to waste any more time on this matter.

I blinked I surprise and looked to Silnartogas, who sent was putting on an admonishing look on his face, as though lecturing me for being so sadistic for letting my friends be in the dark for so long. Silnartogas was hiding a crooked smile under those sentences but I could see it and then, I was overwhelmed by a feeling of comfort and relaxation. These shocked me to the core for it had been a rather long time since I felt such strong feelings. Yes, I loved my friends, but it nothing like this feeling that I was feeling like. A sense of security and serenity flooded my emotional system, and I was puzzled but such a feeling, for I did not understand why I would feel such a feeling in the first place by such a simple sentence from a wolf no less.

Rather confused by the sudden warmth spreading throughout my body, I only nodded in numb understanding before I moved towards my whole group of companions, mentally sighing as I prepared myself for the oncoming slaughter of questions that would be bombarded at me.

I could almost hear both impish wolves behind me snickering at my predicament… damn them…

Chapter 1

2010-05-15T23:41:00.000-07:00

yes, my blog is officially dead, but oh well~

Chapter 1 – Discovered

I jerked awake immediately.

I realized that I was panting, hard, and that cold sweat was flowing freely down my cheeks. For a while, I was unable to comprehend what had just happened, and just lied there, staring blankly at the damaged ceiling before me.

After my breathing was back to normal, I recollected what happened just now, shifting uncomfortably in my small and thin mattress. It was the same dream again. That goddamn dream. I don’t even know why I even have these dreams. It was always the same.

Darkness surrounds me except for a single beam of light shining upon myself. Sitting there dumbly, it was mere seconds later before scenes flash before me. I have no idea if it was made-up or a part of my memory, but all I know is that I never once enjoyed it, because it wasn’t joyful at all. Fires would start erupting out of nowhere while screams and shouts filled the air. Then, I would be ‘transported’ into it, enabling me to see clearly what was actually happening. It was clear that it was in a house, two stories but it was all engulfed in flames. A lone figure stood his ground in a corridor, with a four-legged beast beside him. His features were blurred and blackened, like a shadow, but I can see clearly that he was tired, for his frame was trembling slightly while his chest rise up and down rapidly. Half-crouched, he seemed to be ready to spring at the people dressed in battle gears in front of him, the people who had charged in through the opened door. They visibly tense upon seeing the man, but suddenly, an evil laughter would fill the air, making every being in the room freeze. As all turned their heads towards the sound, another man emerged from the crowd, but not alone.

As the soldiers made way for him, the man strolled forward, in his arms a woman who was apparently dead. Her eyes were closed but from how pale her skin look, she was gone from this world. The very same man shouted something and laughter soon filled the whole place. The lone figure was obviously angered, as he clenched his fist and asked something in a calm tone. His question was answered by only laughter again as another man came into view, this time holding a child who could not be more than 7 years of age. The man was holding the poor child up by his hair, but the child did not scream, instead, kicking wildly at the man and trying to free himself. The child must had said something to anger the man because the man gritted his teeth and actually flung the child against the wall. A whimper escaped the child and then he lay limp. Sadistic laughs were heard yet again but they did not notice the waves of fury coming from the lone figure and his partner. Though it was a dream, I could feel the strong magical waves he was emitting, the anger and hatred in it. Hell broke lose as the figure flew into a frenzy, shocking the crowd of soldiers. The scene was very gory and violent. Limbs were torn apart from bodies while pieces of flesh exploded in every direction. The house was decorated with a new colour of red and limbs as the man and beast continued their attacks. The soldiers were either burnt alive or torn apart, the figure obviously showing no mercy at all with his attacks. The soldiers were no match at all for the man as he and his partner lashed out at the enemy. The flames engulfing the house grew even bigger and fiercer as the one-sided fight continued.

Then, I would no longer be in the house; instead, I would be outside, floating in the air. It was then I would witness that the whole house was actually surrounded by more soldiers, more than a hundred as each rushed into the fight to replace their fallen comrades. Waves after waves rushed into the flaming house, seeming to be never ending. Always shivering upon seeing such a violent and bloody fight, I forced myself to see the next scene. A yell would fill the air before the whole house would explode, its intensity affecting the area around it for at least a kilometer. It was like a volcano erupting, but far worse as it was pure waves of magic spreading the magic that wide. The intense light momentarily blinded the whole scene and as sudden as the explosion came, it went away. The soldiers were all cremated into ashes before they even knew what had happen, not even able to scream out in fear. All that was left was a very blackened area, the house no longer there and the soldiers all dead, burnt to death. Even the trees that was nearby was burned to pieces, not even leaving behind a single piece of bark. The lone figure and beast stood there, surveying the scene before them. The child and lady were surprisingly still alive and I knew that the man had shielded them both from the feriocious attack. I thought that the man would now bring the child to safety, however; instead he walked towards the child, ruffling his hair soothingly before the man grabbed his shoulders. In a moment, the child was gone and the man stood up, only to fall back down again as his partner rushed to his side. The scene would then start to fade, leaving to wonder what does all this had to do with me…

“At…? At…?” A soft voice broke my train of thoughts and I immediately recognized it as ten-year-old Vintel.

He was sitting up on his own mattress. Though it was still dark, I could still trace out his rather disheveled appearance. His raven hair was messed up, flying around in odd angles. Dressed in a pair of white shirt and blue jeans, he unconsciously tried to move towards me. His hazelnut eyes looked at me painfully, with a dreary look in them and I knew what had happened… it was his nightmares again.

We found him when he was seven, all alone as he tried to find scraps of food to survive. He did not trust us at first, but slowly, he opened up to us and we found out that his father was executed just because he offended an official, and that his mother and himself were going to be executed too because they were his family. It was cruel and unfair and his mother and him immediately tried to escape, with his mother dying on the attempt to save Vintel from an attack. That memory always hunt him as the enemy blew a hole up in his mother stomach, something a kid shouldn’t have to see at all. All the blood… the sheer terror would even make an untrained adult shiver in fear. He was lucky to escape because if not, another innocent life would be taken by those scoundrels again.

“What’s wrong Vin? Did you have a nightmare again?” I asked softly as the small figure emerged from the dark slowly to stand at my side.

He nodded his head slowly and I could see that he was trying to hold back his tears that were threatening to fall. I sat up and patted the empty space on my side, gesturing for him to sit. As he came to sit I noted that it was still dark, meaning that morning has not yet come. Pressing a button on my wristband, it showed 3am in the morning. What a time to wake up.

“Are you the only one awake?” I asked again and Vintel nodded his head, and I confirmed my answer as I heard light snoring from the rest of the occupants in the room.

“Want to tell me about it?” I inquired softly as I started to rub his back soothingly in small circles, hoping to ease his pain and fear.

“…Can I just sleep beside you?” he questioned in a timid voice. Who am I to refuse him?

Nodding my head, he seemed to literally beam as he settled himself quickly onto my mattress. Snuggling himself deep into my blankets while I continued to rub his back, I could see that he was slowly being lulled into sleep. His eyelids were only half opened now as his breathing became more even. However, he was still fighting the sleep that was trying to overwhelm him. It must be the nightmares that he always had, the one whereby his parents were forcefully taken away from him when he was only eight…

“…At? Can you sing me the song moonlight?” he asked wearily in his half-trance like state and I was more than happy to comply, anything to let him go back to sleep again because he will definitely need it.

Smiling, I opened my mouth to start the lullaby that I would always sing to the kids for them to fall asleep. For some reasons, it always seemed to work.

Moonlight ~ Oh moonlight~
Where are you today?~
For when the Sun comes~
You just go away~

Moonlight ~ Oh moonlight~
I miss you so much ~
I have to wait for night to fall~
Before you come to me~

Moonlight ~Moonlight ~
I miss your presence~
Though the Sun keeps us warm~
You keep us calm~
Your light always seemed soothing~
And calms every soul you shine upon~
Being one of those lucky souls~
I love you so much~

Moonlight ~ Oh Moonlight~
Where are you today?
Hopefully I can see you~
When the night comes again~

With that, I ended the song and took a long breath before taking a look at Vintel. As expected, he was already asleep, with an innocent and naïve look on his face, like any other child. Satisfied with my success, I smiled to myself and patted his head softly. After a minute, I stood up quietly. Tightening the belt that held my sword, I made my way outside, all the while avoided tripping over anything or anyone. Reaching the doorway, I observed my surroundings. It was really quiet and peaceful, like any other night. Sighing contently, I started to walk down the hallway, knowing that I would not be able to catch any sleep any time soon.

This place we were living at is in a small country, along the borders separating Rayli and Poncal, and that was why definitely a safe place for us to hide. When it was this close to the borders, both of the two biggest nations would not be bothered to send their soldiers to such a place to be bothered with the likes of us. All the transportation and manpower they need for them to get here was just a waste of time and money I should say. And of course, I am obviously elated that they would not bother with us, which would save us all of the troubles of trying to escape their claws. I know that the government of Poncal would not be bothered with us, for they have better things to do, but I definitely can confirm the fact that our biggest enemy, Rayli, or rather their soldiers, called D.O.H. They were obviously some blithe idiots, who all think that we should be destroyed and then will the world be peaceful and clean. Hooray. And also, I don’t know what the letters mean but who cares? All I need to know is that I totally resent them not only because of the fact that they would hunt every single one of us down, but also deemed us to be inferior compared to them.

Why are we inferior? One would ask. And all I could say is that all of them are just some stupid proud peacocks. Just because they are pure and powerful doesn’t give them the rights to come and kill us off. ‘Dirt of the society’ they called us, while I would call them ‘peacocks that don’t know how to rule a country’, which is totally true. I mean, which sane country would try to eliminate every single being, whether you are human or not, just because your blood was not pure and your powers not up to standard? Why does blood purity even matters?

“Nightmares again At?” a deep voice asked and I immediately recognized it as our leader Tyol.

Turning my head to the left, I saw Tyol down the hallway by a few meters, walking towards me with slow and steady steps. His orange hair was of darker shade in the night as his grey eyes searched me out, trying to determine the source of my little insomnia problem. Standing at a proud height of about 180cm, he was donned on with a simple blue shirt, with an extra old looking army vest. Long black training slacks were on his legs with a belt attached around his waist. His weapon, a sword was attached to the belt, safely in the sheath. Tyol had the air of calmness and coolness about him, which immediately soothed my angry thoughts just now.

“So it’s your turn to patrol tonight?” I asked casually, trying to change the subject of the conversation since I was still unwillingly to talk to anyone about it, though Tyol roughly knows what was always keeping me up during the nights.

“Yes. Now answer the question.” He stated simply as he came to a stop beside me, raising an eyebrow as he demanded for an answer.

I looked at him for a while before shaking my head. Tyol frowned upon my answer and was probably going to give me the talk of how unhealthy it was but I stopped him quickly and efficiently.

“Ty…I don’t want to be rude or anything…but… I don’t want to talk about it…not now…”I mumbled and looked away from his light grey eyes, opting to stare at the half moon instead.

“Ok…I am not going to force you to talk or anything…”Tyol started and I mentally heaved a sigh of relief, “but if you do want to talk about it, I am available anytime.”

“Thanks Ty…” I muttered and stared at the sky again, letting the silence hang awkwardly in the air as I continued from my train of thoughts just now.

“So, what are you thinking about right now? D.O.H?” He inquired as he moved to stare at the sky too, all the while sneaking glances at me to see if I was willing to talk after such a touchy subject.

“Ya, those bastards. Even though they are following the orders of Rayli, I still hate them cause they are destroying everyone’s life, even children like Vin…” I hissed in fury as I clenched my fists hard.

Noticing my movement, Tyol placed an comforting hand on my arm, shooting me a look to calm down.

“Who doesn’t hate them?” Tyol said as he sighed, before continuing, “All of us do, because our families were ripped apart because of them. But, this isn’t the end is it? We still have each other and with that, we’ll pull through this till we find a place that would actually accept us. For now, we have to lay low cause the peacocks are on sugar high to capture every single one of us.” He grinned at the end and I couldn’t help but grin back. Sarcastic, but I like it.

“Hmm…you’re right. Thanks Ty.” I thanked Ty as he managed to calm me down like always, since I was often angered by how they tried to rule us; condemn us as though we are worse than dogs.

“No prob little At.” And I could sense the cheekiness in his voice

“Hey! I’m not little!!!!” I managed a half-scream at him since I did not want to wake the whole building up.

“As much as I like to say that too…you are only fourteen and you don’t even reach my shoulders…” Tyol started and moved to stand beside me, clearly trying to indicate that I indeed do no reach his shoulders at all. I glared at him in mock anger before grinning at him and giving him a slap on his back. A hard slap actually…

“OW!!!” Tyol screamed a little too loudly and his hand flew to his mouth quickly but obviously too late to cover his scream.

Staring at him, I raised an eyebrow and gave him a ‘does it hurt that much’ look.

“Of course it hurts you brat. How about I try that on you too?” he hissed angrily, but I could see that he was joking as he was trying very hard to put on an offended look, which he failed at it miserably.

Choosing to act nonchalant about the whole matter, I shrugged and started to walk away, planning to accompany Tyol on his patrol. I could practically feel Tyol give me an incredulous look before catching up with me. Determined to get his revenge, he slapped him back on the head and I would have fall face first on the ground if I haven’t caught myself. Glaring at him again, I met his eye and he chuckled softly. I could see the amusement in his eyes. However, he must have predicted that I would retaliate because he walked away in long strides before I could do anything. Cursing under my breath, I increased my pace and was almost beside him when he quickened his steps again, leaving me behind. Almost able to hear him whistling to himself happily, I walked even faster, forcing myself to not break out in a run. As I was going to catch up for the second time, Tyol went even faster and left me in the dust again. ARGH!!!! From this day onwards, I declare war on those who can walk so fast.

Just when I was going to start running, a sudden idea formed in my head as I stared at Tyol’s back. Oh this is indeed a wonderful plan…

Grinning mischievously, I soften the sound of my footsteps and proceeded to catch him off guard. Moving faster and softer with each step, I was a few steps behind the unknowing Tyol and then at the right moment, I pounced on him. I earn myself an indignant yelp as both of us tumbled to the ground. Having the advantage of being on top of him, I started to tickle him mercilessly and he lost the strength to throw me off. Our laughter filled the air, as we were engrossed in our own little game and we failed to notice the devil herself that was approaching us…

“Mr Yiho and Mr Gantz… May I asked why the both of you are on the ground when one is supposed to be in bed and the other on a patrol?” an emotionless voice was heard and we froze immediately, knowing full well who was speaking.

Ominous silence hung in the air and Tyol was the brave one to break it first. Pushing me off himself gently, he stood up and also pulled me to my feet quickly. Planting on his best smile that I always labeled as ‘the smile to get away from trouble’, he looked at the person who had made our blood freeze to the core just now.

“Well…about that… At and I was just actually…” Tyol hesitated as he tried to think of a reason and the brilliant me supplied it immediately.

“I…er… I saw a bug crawled into Ty’s shirt and I was just trying to help him get the bug out.” I managed to lie in a calm tone and secretly nudged Tyol, who got the signal and nodded his head in agreement.

“Ya! At was just being a kind soul and helping me.” Tyol added and let out a nervous chuckle, hoping to ease the suspicion of said person in front of him

Said person was none other than Rina, or rather, Tyol’s ‘secretary’. Her long blonde hair and gold eyes only makes her more intimidating as her eyes were practically glowing threateningly at us. Twin rapiers were attached to her secured bet. She was in a short sleeveless dark brown shirt, with black blue pants. Both hands currently placed on her hips, she glared at us heatedly.

She is the one who always made sure that everyone is following the rules, schedules, and takes care of a lot of work together with Tyol. But having a serious AND perfectionist secretary was obviously not a good combination at all. When Tyol is…goofing off like she always said, she would somehow be there to drag him back to do the necessary work, and start to lecture him on what would happen if he doesn’t do this etc… I think I kind of memorise it now when I have heard it for don’t know how many times.

“Then where is the bug, may I asked?” Rina stated the blunt obvious and gave one of her hard looks at us and my sixth sense tells me that we are busted.

“Ahaha…Hey! You know what? I feel tired all of a sudden! So… bye! I’m going to sleep right now. And er… Ty! Er… good luck on your patrol!” I stammered all the way and gave Tyol a pat on the shoulder. Then with my speed, I moved back to my rooms hastily because I do indeed feel tired.

Tyol’s point of view

The kid ran off before I could even shout ‘D.O.H is here!’, but it’s not like I can do that anyway because I most probably wouldn’t live to see the next day especially with Rina here in front of me. With a dramatic sigh, I faced the devil herself. I knew from the start that we were busted, but it was still worth a try. Never give up till you tried right?

“Ty, stop slacking and start working! You’re the leader here for goodness sake! How can you set such a bad example? And you know that our dear Mr. prankster is already very creative, so stop giving him any ideas! And for the last time, don’t take the patrols for grunted! We can’t afford anyone infiltrating here or we would have to find another place, which is very difficult and very time-consuming. We wouldn’t have enough food or water or manpower to do so and you know it yourself! Once is already enough, I won’t want the same mistake to be made. Also, remember to report the previous events to other areas because we need to keep each other updated. And the training that is scheduled tomorrow, or rather today since it’s 4am, you still haven’t plan out the timeline yet! How are we supposed to teach the children then? And…” Rina rattled on and rattled and I could feel a vein in my brain bust, or was it supposed to be an artery?

“Rina…” I started as I tried to stop her from babbling on because if she did I am sure that a headache is going to start.

“Don’t ‘Rina’ me! You aren’t going to get away from this until you hear finish what I have said. Do you know how much work is waiting for you to be done? And here you are…” it’s going to start all over again, just that she is going to use a different way to scold me. Dear god, she’s such a wonderful secretary. And dear me, please notice the blunt sarcasm I am using here.

“Rina…I know I know! I know what I am supposed to do and for goodness sake, I am an adult. Wait, I know that you are just trying to help me but I’ll finish all these work after I patrol finish ok?” I assured her and was glad that she finally stopped and raised an eyebrow. Seriously, they must have picked up the habit from At because that kid just loves to do that.

“Yes…I promise…” I stated but Rina still gave me a blank look and with a sigh, I added, “I totally swear that I would finish ALL the work that is given to me or I am not going to sleep at all. Satisfied?”

Nodding her head in approval, she gave me a warm smile and I flashed one back at her. So much work, and only one me… wait… who voted me to be leader again?

‘That At… he’s like our beam of light isn’t he? And I am sure that his presence is getting onto you too. You weren’t that… friendly before we found him.” Rina suddenly said and I glared at her, but soften up at the memories of At. At is a great kid. Though he is not the most powerful person on Antel, he is definitely the brightest beam of light I ever saw. I have to admit what Rina said just now – before we found him, I was the more serious type, always focusing on the tedious work and burden set upon me and I was often frustrated by it. At that time, I knew that I had to bear the responsibility of assuring all the other kids safety because Arcane left the whole group in my care. I was desperate at first, not really all that confident about my abilities though people like Rina were here to help me. Since I was tired out by it often, I was found to be in a bad mood almost every day from the lack of sleep. Once, I even wanted to just go somewhere where I did not have to worry about this and live a normal live, because I was totally sick and tired of it. Why me? Why not someone else? And soon, I was becoming harsher and colder to everyone around me… Urgh, I don’t even want to think about it. Well, that was until little At came along. He was shy and very close-mouthed at first, but slowly opened up and quickly made many friends. I did not bother to remember him at first, I just stored his appearance in my mind. The kid with the unruly black hair and the same obsidian eyes, with tattered white t-shirt and torn jeans. However, he managed to worm his way into my heart at that time, reminding me why I was doing this in the first place – to protect all of these kids. And boy was I glad that the haze in my exhausted mind was clear, and my desire was clearly seen. I soon realized that I firstly needed to change my attitude and what I could clearly see what heart desire, I set out to change myself to a better leader. Have to thank little At for that. But I don’t think that he even knows it… he must have done it subconsciously then…

“Yep, great kid.” I answered.

We both smiled knowingly at each other and I proceeded back to on my damn patrol on the look out for the proud and stupid peacocks, while Rina went to take care some of the admin work. Boy oh boy, what a wonderful day today. And my back is aching already, must be that brat’s fault…I am going to get him for this.

Athen’s point of view

“At…! At…! Earth to At!!!!” someone practically shouted in my ears but I chose to ignore it and flipped myself to the other side, to get myself further away from that damn person. I needed SLEEP. My beauty sleep and don’t think that by just having one earth calling to me will make a goddamn difference.

“Little At… don’t make me call you a second time cause you won’t like it.” The person warns and I have a rough idea that it was Tyol. He is the only one around that ever calls me little. Still, like I am gonna bother with him. SLEEP is more important than waking up and I hate mornings so from today onwards, there shall be no more mornings, only afternoons.

“Don’t make me do this At…” do what? Why don’t you try it and I will think about waking up huh?

“You asked for it, so don’t blame me, since it is your shift today to cook breakfast…” I still don’t care and I doubt that you can make me wak… ARGH!!! WHAT THE HELL?!

A sudden freezing sensation was felt around my neck, too cold and prickling for my liking. It was as though little needles were pocking at my neck and…it was so cold!!! I can’t feel my neck anymore!! My eyes flash open and stared at the guy that had frozen my neck, and said person also fully knew well that I hated cold, especially in the morning.

“I did warn you so don’t glare at me like that.” He drawled casually and released his magic on me when he saw how awake I was. He was grinning like a maniac though… he’s hiding something and is also happy that he managed to use his magic on me…must be revenge.

“I did nothing to you right? So why are you so joyful about it?” I snapped back at him. Argh, I hate mornings.

“Hmmm? Joyful? Which part me seems joyful to you?” every part you idiot.

I gave him a ‘are you serious’ look and stared intensely at his grey eyes, sensing the amusement and glee in it. Still, he never backed down from my stare and I grumbled in annoyance. Brushing my fingers through my black hair to set it straight, I ignored Tyol’s presence and moved towards the doorway to go to the kitchen and prepare breakfast. When I realized that I was last one to wake, I quickened my steps immediately. Pressing the same button, I checked that the time was 7.30am. Too early…but definitely late for the breakfast.

“At? Oh come on At. Don’t be so petty! I was just joking around!” Tyol exclaimed as he caught up beside me easily.

I gave him a contemplative look before quoting a sentence from Rina, and also imitate her voice. “Leaders…don’t joke around.”

“Very funny At. For your info, I finished all my work so Rina wouldn’t or rather, can’t do anything to me.” Tyol informed calmly. Damn, I thought that he would have missed something and then I will get my revenge. Che, this ain’t fun at all. Why does Tyol have to be so observant? I hate him.

“You can’t blame me for being a astute person little At, after all, leaders can’t joke around can they?” Tyol suggested in a bored tone as he quoted back my words… now I can’t use those words again.

Just when I was about to snapped back at him, something latch around my leg and I would have kicked it if I had not seen that mop of white and grayish hair.

“At!! I’m hungry~” the voice whine and as he refused to detach himself from my poor legs. Seriously…I don’t even know why I didn’t just act on my instinct in the first place.

“Lit…I can’t make your hunger go away if you don’t get off me.” I stated and start to pry Elit’s arms off me. For an eleven year old, he’s kind of strong. He’s stopping my leg’s circulation.

“Fine. But I want my food in ten minutes.” He demanded as he stalked back to his chair and plopped down, staring intensely at the table in front of him as though said food would just pop out.

“Sure, my fault for being late. Bread, ham and Xay is fine right?” I asked while moving towards the fridge to get the said items out and cook up breakfast. I am just asking for the sake of asking and it’s not like we have lots of choices in the first place anyway.

“Yep!” a whole lot of voices agreed in unison before breaking off into chatters again, but some napping on the table. People like Milaran,Vintel, and surprisingly Negil too with a dazed look on their faces. They aren’t morning persons either then.

After counting that there are seven kids waiting for breakfast, and three more who are joining later, I would need eleven sets of breakfast, including myself. First, I took out about two Xays, a kind of fruit that is like an apple but more oval in shape and has a sweet and sour taste in it. Cutting it into equal small pieces, I placed it on the seven plates and then moved on to cooking the ham. Since we only got 2 pans, I just have to make do with it. I dripped some oil onto the pans and then placed one piece on each pan and drawing out my magic, starting to cook the hams. Making sure that my fire was concentrated at the bottom of the pan, just directly under the area of the ham, I increase the heat till I could hear some sizzling. I stuck with the same temperature and staring cooking, whistling all the way while doing some stunts to show off. Yes, show off, cause I know that kids like to go ‘wow!’ when you just flip the ham single-handedly. Ha, they just don’t know what is practice makes perfect.

After ten minutes of quick cooking, with big thanks to my fire magic, I double-checked that the hams were thoroughly cook so that Rina would not come and murder me. Satisfied, I took out the bread from the cupboard and placed it on each plate. Before I could even announced that it was done, the plates were either snatched away by hands, got levitated to the table by magic, or simply teleported to the table. Seriously, can’t they use their own limbs for once? They all mumbled a quick thanks before tucking in, gobbling down their food like they haven’t eaten for days. I mean, I know that we aren’t very well fed but it’s not like Tyol is starving them right?

Paying no attention to their behavior for my stomach was not really ready for any food; I walked over to the other side of the kitchen and filled a cup with water. Taking my half-filled water, I went to an empty seat and plopped myself down onto the chair, still managing to take notice how the kids had finished three-quarters of their meals in less than 2 minutes. One day, I need to teach them table manners…

Sighing, I looked around the small but comforting kitchen. The place I was sitting at is in the middle of the kitchen, with a rectangular brown table and about ten chairs surrounding it. Behind me was just some more cupboards built in counters (mostly empty though) and a sink. The white fridge was at the opposite corner, though not really white in colour… and beside it is a counter about 3.5meters long and has our supplies in its cupboards. The counter was just simply a mixture of brown and a darker kind of brown… which reminds me… almost all is made of wood. Oh ya and that stove…

“Ya, we should get rid of the stove right Athen? It’s just taking up the space since you don’t even use it.” A familiar voice sounded from the doorway and upon turning my head, realized that it was the forgotten Tyol. Err…ops?

“It’s not like we have that many things to put.” I commented and continue sipping my water. Damn, I am so going to buy some coffee powder… and steal it if I have to.

“Your right, we don’t have that much things anyway. And if I threw it away, I will end up freezing everyone’s meals!” Tyol laugh and moved to get water, not noticing how the kids held their plates closer to themselves after hearing his sentence.

I was about to tease about Tyol’s ice magic when a sudden beeping sound filled the room, a sound that I always hated since it was used for emergency situations, which always spells disaster.

“Shit.” I cursed and quickly pressed a button labeled with and ‘R’ on my wristband. Tyol grumbled a while as his expressions turned serious before he too, pressed the same button on his own wristband. Please not let what I think is happening to happen… I had enough of the damn peacocks already! Why can’t they just leave us in peace?

“Emergency! Section 1 had been discovered by the peacocks and is moving on quickly to Section 2. Group 2 and 3, please prepare for double ‘e’ double ‘two’! Group 4 and 5, please prepare for double ‘e’ double ‘five’! E.T.A of animals to section 2 at 10mins! Please carry on ASAP! Any further arrangements would be communicated through ‘mpwb’ by T.Y. Lin would meet up with any of the groups later. Out.” Lincoln’s voice was heard as he desperately tried to keep calm and state what we should do and not revealing anything much to the enemies if our systems were ever hacked. I could hear how hard he was panting and also faint screaming and yelling in the background. Shit… this is bad. 10 minutes? Oh great, JUST GREAT! DAMN IT!!! What are we supposed to do now? And how the hell did they know where we were? ARGH!!!

“Received. E.T.A to double ‘two’ at 7 mins. Out.” Tyol answered back calmly as his face turned deadly serious.

Tyol’s point of view

The only possible reason? There is a mole in us who is giving out the information. I’d loved to whack that person myself but no, now is not the time. At is already panicking by that deep frown on his face. I know how much he hates them because I do so myself and the disastrous situation isn’t helping either. Lin is always right when he estimates things like this and if it is 10mins, it only meant that the peacocks had already taken care of Section 1 and is now halfway to reaching here, which is Section 2. Lin must also be using the other way to reach section 22 or spying on them. But I know that he will keep himself safe. So now, we must quickly pack and escape, without leaving any trail behind. We need to start moving now, and if I don’t stay calm too, all will start to panic, especially the kids… they are trembling already, and the usual collected and quiet and composed Negil was of no exception either.

“At. Grab all the stuff you can while Rina and me will take care of the rest. You have 2 minutes so hastened up and meet us outside when you are done.” I instructed Athen, hopefully he will calm down enough, or I will knock some sense into him because we simply don’t have time to panic.

At first, he froze for a while, before he closed his eyes, took a deep breath and nodded his head, eyes focused and filled with determination. He isn’t shaking anymore from the announcement of the situation. Good, now I can leave the place here to him while I go take care of the rest. Giving him a reassuring nod, I sprinted towards the core area of this place to deactivate everything and wiped away our presence of ever staying here. We don’t have much time but if everyone follows the usual drill, we will be fine.

I am sure of it cause there is no way I am going to let those peacocks take away any of the kids again, not while I am here.

Athen’s point of view

I watched Tyol sprint out of the door at full speed. I would have probably sit there and froze too like the other kids, but I can’t, cause Tyol needs me and the kids also need someone to guide them out of this mess. Bad memories are flashing through me, showing me my incompetence in the past because of my carelessness and stupidity. I did not want that to happen again…no I must not let that happen.

“Ok guys, you heard the man. Now, remember our drills? I am going to clear the food and you guys go and filled up your bottles full to its max. But all of you wouldn’t be able to do so, so just try to fill up as many as possible and we’ll distribute them later. Then, when you are finished, help each other out and make sure that your emergency bags are with you, along with the supplies. Ok move now! Chop chop!” I encouraged in a pretty strained calm voice as the children look at me for a while before dashing off to the tap, each taking out their bottles to fill up. As for me, I hastened towards the cupboard and summoned my bag from my wristband. I placed three-quarters of what we had into the bag, and stuffed the rest into the one of many bags around my belt. All of us had this bag belt, or double ‘b’ as we called it because in case of situations like these, we will always be prepared.

My heart was pounding hard against my chest, and it took me my full will not to tremble and drop the food. I can’t help it. Flashes of my past just keep flashing before me, mocking me and berating me for my idiotic actions… because of my mistake, it cost a person her life and endangered the rest…

“At? We are done with all the preparations…” A girl of eleven years of age, named Beria, asked in a small voice as she shook me slightly to get my attention.

Turning around, I see all the kids’ eyes on me, waiting for me to tell them what to do next. They were all scared too. Fear was written clearly on their faces and they were almost on the verge of breaking down and crying. They had also witness the cruelty of the world, and knew that that had to fight for their own rights, their freedom even if they were only children. They need me now, and I must not fail them.

With a newfound determination, I nodded my head and smiled at them encouragingly, glad that some of them had relaxed their tensed shoulders and were in the process of calming down.

“Good, now, follow me closely. Also make sure that your partners are with you at all times, if not, report to me immediately. Understood?” I enquired gently but firmly to let them know that this was serious matter, not the time to joke around.

They all nodded their heads and moved to each of their individual partners. After I scanned them and did a headcount, I quickly moved out to meet with Tyol and Rina, knowing that they would also be finish with their jobs. The damn peacocks are close; I could almost feel their annoying but ominous presence. I could also practically imagine them stomping this place at anytime as I moved swiftly towards the back of the house. The screaming, wailings, and the laughter of them subduing their victims were just purely disgusting… inhumane freaks…

“At? You’re done packing the supplies right?” Tyol asked as he emerged from the corner together with Rina, both panting as they hastily moved to stand beside us.

I nodded my head, giving them the reply they want since I did not trust my voice to not break under this tense atmosphere… and the memories that keep flashing was not making things any better either… Shit, I am scared…

I was barely able to control myself from flinching away from the hand that had placed itself upon my slightly trembling shoulders. It was Tyol and he knew that I was scared. His eyes tried to calm me and he gave my shoulder a firm squeeze, as though telling me that what happened in the past was not my fault, and that I should not dwell on it because it would only hider my present. I don’t know how he managed to always guess what I am thinking… but I thank him for trying to comfort me… cause I definitely need it now seeing the nervous state I am in. I would have probably break down if I was just like any other normal kid… but seeing that I ain’t that normal… oh well.

Tyol’s point of view

I bet me and Rina would have won any sprinting race with the speed we were going at just now… and if it was not for Rina being a speed user… I don’t think I can make it and she’s fast as usual. But seriously, if I haven’t force myself to run at that kind of speed every single day… I think I would be dead by now. I mean, first running to the core of the house an shutting it off, then to the rooms to clear our other belongings, which means destroy it or bring it along, then running around the practice area to clear off any magical presence and then run around the whole house and make sure that we didn’t raise any alarms… all in two minutes… I can practically feel the muscle ache I am going to have the next day… oh joy.

And I am kind of worried about little At… it must be because the past accident that is haunting him, and that person’s death… I pity for him but now is not the time and At hates anyone who sympathizes him… and I could sense the approach of a large magical presence that was cleverly hidden. They cover their magical powers by blending in with the surroundings, like camouflaging and only a expert in this area would be able to sense them. But I am only a novice in it and if Lin haven’t told be I wouldn’t even notice their approach. They are getting even closer again and if we don’t get out of here now, it will be the end of group 2.

“Ok, I am going to lead us to area 22, all of your follow closely and don’t leave any trail behind, including your magical trail. No sound and fast pace. Let’s move.” I commanded calmly and doing a check over the whole area again, I dashed of into the forest nearby, hearing several quiet footsteps following closely behind me. Tired as I am, I have to lead them to safety and with Rina as the rearguard, we won’t be leaving any traces behind and those damn peacocks wouldn’t be able to sense us at all, even with their hounds.

Leading the whole group on a familiar trail (to us it is but for the peacocks…), we did not exchange any words because of the tense atmosphere. I know that Rina is anxious, but not at all afraid while the rest, including At, was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Understandable, cause I have been through all of this before and at that time, I was twelve, but these kids at the oldest eleven and little At was fourteen only… they are not even adults… and I have to admire their bravery for being able to stay calm and composed, especially At, cause after such a terrible experience would leave any teenagers sobbing.

We were hardly making any sounds and we were further and further away from the magical presence, lightening the burden that I felt on my shoulders a minute ago. I am not afraid of them, but I don’t want them near the kids, ad I definitely wouldn’t let them make any one of us suffer the cruelty and humiliation of slavery.

Also, I am desperate to know what had happened to Section1, the first place that was being attack. I am sure that Rina had the same thing on her mind too, cause they would have been caught by surprise, and if Lin weren’t visiting them to attend to the mechanical matters there… we would have been sitting ducks at the house, waiting for them to charge in and take us. There would only be 3 fighters, Rina, At and me since the kids wouldn’t be a match against the adults, physically and magically. The number of experienced fighters had to be spread out thin ever since Arcane they all left, cause each group would need someone to guide them and we can’t stay in a big group for fear of getting caught. Small and conspicuous was the best, while we also make sure that our communication system was well-balanced, as well as our defense too as we would always have lessons to teach the kids fighting skills, though we did not want them to learn at all. But to survive, they have to harbor these skills of they would just die. It was eat or be eaten, or just simply be smart enough to run and escape, was what I always tell them

I have my suspicions about this whole matter, and also pray that there will be no casualties at the Section 1. Zackery is in charge. He is capable and strong but being on the receiving end of the surprised attack will do no army good and I could only hope they managed to escape from the peacocks. I could only suspect that someone had betrayed us, who I don’t know cause I know that we were all very loyal to one another. Having suffered the same fate and having the same enemy, who would betray us unless the peacocks have came into contact with the mole and either threaten that person, or bribe him. If it was the latter, I would personally rip that person to pieces myself, for loyalty is very much valued in our codes as it is what that had kept us together.

About three minutes have passed. We heard no one following us and we all relax a little and the heavy atmosphere lighten by a tiny bit, not much because we were still not sure if they would ambush us from somewhere. And they may also be silently following us and trailing us so that we could lead them to the big group… maybe I am the only one being paranoid, by apparently, being paranoid is good for health here.

After sensing around for any presence, I heaved a sigh of relief to know that no stranger was to be found. There were only the animals residing in this forest and have all scampered away upon sensing our arrival. Which reminds me… they can’t like threaten animals to tell them where we are can they? I am so going to have that checked out and confirmed…

There was a sudden clearing in front and I could hear the faint sound of a rushing river, which signals that we were closed to area 22. Area 22 is near a river source and has several other food sources around as well so we could probably camp there for some time before we find any place to live. The place weren’t big enough for tents, but that’s the whole purpose cause we will be sleeping on trees instead, so that the enemies would have less chance of finding us when we are in such a big group. And when we reach there I would need time to figure this whole thing out since there is something fishy going on…

Luckily for me, we soon reached the designated area and were all panting hard since we were sprinting all the way, about more than 500 meters I should say. Man, we should all participate in some sprinting event and we would all be champions. Wouldn’t that be good for a change?

“Ok guys, we’re here and looks like we are the first. We’ll have to wait for the others to arrive before we do anything else. You all can drink from the river and have a snack too to catch your breaths. I would scout around the area and see if I can meet up with group 3. You guys have to stay here and remain silent and hidden. No sound, no activities other than drinking and eating. No wondering around and no fires. Listen to Rina while I am gone. Am I clear on this?” I asked as I listed out all the things. We can’t have them discovered another secret location or we’ll all be doomed.

They stared at me for a while before nodding their heads and moving on to their drinks and food. At on the other hand, raise an eyebrow at me in amusement. He smirked at me and then started going around to monitor the kids, making sure that they didn’t eat up all their supplies and that no one suffered any injuries. Man that kid, I would have had him in a headlock for mocking at my sudden display of leadership if not for this situation, though he will also make a good leader too. Trust him to be able to joke in times like this. But it also means that he was putting down the past and concentrating on the present instead. Good for him, and with both Rina and him around, I would be able to scout around without worrying about them getting into trouble… but I can’t say for sure about At… after all he is not dubbed as ‘Mr. Prankster’ by Rina for no reason.

I looked towards Rina, who seemed to be neither panting nor tired from this whole run. Upon seeing my stare, her lips tugged upwards in a small smile and nodded her head, assuring me that it was safe for me to go check things out. I flashed back a small smile and walked towards the direction of Section 3, moving silently and avoiding any bushes, twigs or branches. I also continuously checked the magical presence around the whole area 22 and triple checked that no stranger was lurking nearby to try and ambush us. Section 3 were the third closest to area 22, they should be arriving soon. Quiylanlanzo was in charge of group 3 and I could only hope and pray that they were all safe… and that no one was injured nor captured. As for Group 4 and 5… Jacquer should be able to take care of them… and hopefully we would be able to meet up with Lincoln too…And also… if the mole knew all the locations of the sections… it will only be time before they find this place too…

Athen’s point of view

I almost wanted to tease Tyol about his sudden aura of a leader, but I have to restrain myself. Though having Tyol around to guide us is a good thing as we are all following our trainings and drills, and so far have not messed up anything yet. His calming yet firm presence is having an impact on all of us, as though there was a warm blanket covering us to soothe us of our fears. Well whatever, as long as we are calm, the peacocks will never find us.

Fishing out two bottles of drinks from my bags in the belt, I settled down beside Rina and gave her one of it. She took it and muttered a ‘thanks’, and sipped the water slowly, all the while scanning the area over and over again to check for any signs of the enemy. Following her movements, I sipped slowly too since it isn’t good to gulped down one big chunk, and instead of scanning the surroundings, I scanned the kids instead and always did a mental headcount every single minute. I kept checking that everyone was present, no one was hurt, no one was fooling around and that all the supplies were still intact. Great, Tyol and Rina’s paranoid nature is rubbing on me, now we would make a good trio and scare everyone else off with our paranoidism… though I doubt there is such a word…

“Rina… Do we need to prepare or set up anything?” a quiet and soft voice asked and it turned my head towards the voice.

It was eleven-year-old Negil, or rather the leader of the whole group of seven kids. The calmest, coolest, oldest, and definitely the descendant of the oh famous Tyol, minus his physical features of course. For he had brown hair and black eyes, both belonging to cool colors and obviously signaling his collected nature. He was one of those that hardly panics, though he did just now upon hearing the arrival of the peacocks… but I can’t say anything about him, cause I was also trembling and the only two who weren’t freaking out were Rina and Tyol. It was as expected of course. If they freak out we would probably be in the hospital for people with mentality problems.

“Since we’ll most probably be staying here for a while before we have any actual plans, I want you guys to go around that area and settle yourself up the trees. Make sure that you are high enough so that the leaves will cover you. One tree will have around 2 people, mainly you and your partners. Make sure that you try to stay as silent as possible and not make a ruckus. Am I clear?” Rina enquired… I mean demanded as she stated in her ‘I don’t want any nonsense’ tone. Scary…

All the seven kids nodded before moving off to the trees that Rina had pointed at. I hardly heard a sound from their steps as they moved stealthily, avoiding the twigs and branches that would give out an annoying snap. Looks like the trainings are paying off.

Now that the kids are settling themselves down, I mean up on the trees, it was time for some thinking. Tyol should have probably figured out something already, or maybe that was his first thought when Lin gave us the warning. Argh, thinking is just not my style. But I am sure that Rina, Tyol had also came to the same conclusion that I had been thinking for the past few moments. It was the only logical and sensible assumption of this whole surprise attack. Since we all valued loyalty the most, the information could still be gathered through different forms. First would be bribery, second would be torture, and last would be threatening. I don’t know about the mole, but I know that even if they tortured me again, I would never ever reveal any of the locations housing the different groups. Be damn with them and their arrogant attitudes.

Second option of retrieving the necessary information still stands, but I hardly believed the first one cause this was the first time that this had happened. We never betray each other, cause we are not like those that would betray their own people just for their own benefits. That was just plain selfish and stupid and that person would definitely get his retribution. So first form is out, and third form stands. Now, it’s either torture or threatening, and I don’t mind if the person did reveal us to them because of the either two… especially if it was a kid… I did rather them tell the peacocks then get themselves tortured, cause the tortures are just plain sadistic, and filled with excruciating pain… the endless pain that they would inflict upon you while they laugh manically away…

“At? What do you think about this whole matter?” Rina questioned softly in a low whisper so that the kids wouldn’t hear us. Not like we want to exclude them, but they are after all just kids and don’t deserve to share more burdens. We want them to be able to live their childhood as long as possible without worrying about so many things and end up being paranoid like us.

“One and only possible reason that we are discovered, is that someone had betrayed us.” I muttered back, barely moving my lips for fear that someone could lip-read or use a device to understand what we are saying. OK… THAT’S IT… I am being too paranoid… damn that Tyol. And there isn’t anyone here too… argh…

“I came to the same conclusion as you after the warning we got from Lin. Now, we know how we are betrayed, but the question now is… who did it? And why?” Rina asked, more to herself as she seemed to be just projecting her thoughts out loud.

“Ty must have figured something out – he’s always one step ahead of us. And I don’t think we can really figure anything out even if we ponder here and there for we have totally no clue. I think that all we can do now is to wait for the rest to arrive, and then hear everyone’s opinions and thoughts about this for I am sure that the backstabber’s behaviour will show out, be it guilt or satisfaction. But most importantly, we have to wait for Ty to come back… I’ve got the feeling that he’s already somewhere near the answer that we are all waiting to find out.” I stated as a matter-of-factly for it was true. Ty was the witty one, not really smart like a genius but in times like these does he shows out the most. He was also too observant for his own good (maybe it’s because I hate him for always being able to read through me like a book, but…) and he always mysteriously managed to anticipate our next thoughts and movements. I am sure that trying to figure this matter was a part of the reason he wanted to scout around instead of staying with us… though I am very interested to see who he suspected to have betrayed us all. I will never forgive that person, whether it’s a she or he…

“You’re right. We don’t have enough clues to guide us and it wouldn’t do anyone any good if we try to communicate anyone magically now, it will only lead those dogs to us. We will have to wait then and At, go check on the kids and then set up your own little camp too. Make sure to leave a space for Ty cause I predict that he would want to share the same ro…I mean tree as you.” Rina said but recovered smoothly from her slip as she inclined her head towards the direction of the kids, and I have to bite my lips hard to force back the grin that was threatening to surface. No! Bad grin! Go away! I don’t want to be murdered by Rina for laughing at her slip; I did rather face the peacocks, aka dogs as Rina calls or D.O.H the official dumb name for them.

“Ok, I will do just that. I think that five minutes should be enough for me then you can go set up your own camp. You may want to share with one of the kids since there is a odd number of them but it doesn’t really matter. As long as they aren’t alone, it would be fine.” I told Rina before walking off towards the children.

They were all mostly done setting up their camp up there now. Negil was with the timid Vintel while the noisy Elit was with the always-sensible Horane. Elit and Horane together was never a good combination and having them together whispering to each other quickly, with clear amusement and excitement in their eyes… though on closer look it was Elit doing all the talking as Horane had a worried look on his face as usual but still… this wasn’t a very good thing because these signs were the harbinger of trouble. Beria was with her best mate Milaran and also the quiet but hardworking Cam. All were huddled in their different groups under their chosen trees. Must be discussing about the current situation but for a certain pair of duo… I am not sure about their subject of conversation, though I highly doubt it was about the peacocks chasing us. Since I am on strict orders from both Tyol and Rina… I have to abandon my title as ‘Mr. Prankster’ and check those two out… hopefully I wouldn’t catch them red-handed cause I highly support the cause of pranking! But I can’t admit that out loud.

“Hey Rane! How about we… er… let’s see… something original… AH HA! How about we go and tamper with At’s tree? I bet Ty would be sharing with him too and moreover, we can finally succeed our plan in pranking Mr. Prankster! We can finally be proud ourselves Rane! Cause we wouldn’t be below him anymore in pranking and he’ll be too serious about this whole matter to actually notice this! This… IS OUR BEST CHANCE RANE!!! We can’t miss it or I will regret it my whole life!!! Come on Rane! Let’s do it!!!” Elit squealed quietly in excitement as he bounced up and down the whole time, obviously excited that they can finally make sure a they prank me successfully. But too bad Lit, you’re busted cause I just overheard your whole plan… oh you will definitely can a gift from me any time soon Lit… for even daring to suggest something like this.

A devilish smirk plastered my face as I continued watching their conversation while hiding myself in the shadows of the trees. I hid my magical presence too no matter how small it was as Horane was rather sensitive to it. Elit was still trying to persuade Horane to join him in his little quest to prank me, and kept jumping and jumping like a kangaroo, not tired after all that running. However, Horane was always the most sensible one as he kept shaking his head, stating that now was not the time to prank because of the tense atmosphere, and that Tyol had orders that we should not be fooling around. Still, I could see the gears in Elit’s mind working as he thought of a way to play with Tyol’s words… reminds me… I should probably advise Tyol to be more specific the next time because this little imp likes to play around with our words if we weren’t specific enough…

“But Rane! He only said no fooling around. That doesn’t mean no pranking around. Moreover, this is serious matter! And some more, we wouldn’t be making any noises cause we’ll be as quiet as possible and the one making all the noise would probably be At. So we wouldn’t get into any trouble. Come one Rane!! Please???” Elit begged as he clung onto his friend’s arm, his violet-blue eyes flashing a puppy-look. Uh oh… don’t fall for it Horane…

To my dismay, Horan’s hazelnut eyes were tinted with acceptance and kindness as he fell to his little friend’s begging. And Elit upon sporting the look, grin and hugged his friend, jumping up and down again as he thanked Horane. Sigh, kids these days… but I still can’t help but smile at their antics. Friendship is deeply needed in a world like these, and the strongest of bond can even be formed between two very different people, like these two in front. One was of white hair, while the other black; one more mischievous and the other sensible and reasonable… and yet they form a bond, a bond of friendship with each other not because of their similarities, but because they simply care and look out for each other… these two will be the best of friends forever I could sense…

“Ok Lit. I promise that I will join you on your pranks…” Horane started as he gripped Elit’s arms to stop all the jumping, “but not today ok? Maybe some other days but today is a no.” Elit let out a whine and pouted at Horane, face immediately turning sour as he sat down and cross his arms over his chest ignoring Horane. Tantrum of children these days…

I could see Horane bite his lips as he try to think of a way to cheer Elit up. He sat down beside Elit who was still ignoring him and held out his little finger. Now this got Elit’s attention as he turned and looked at Horane curiously.

“How about this. I promise you that I will always join you on your future pranks, but you must promise back that you wouldn’t prank anyone for the next few days until… things got better.” Horane said as he looked at Elit pleadingly. Elit seemed to weigh his options as he still sat there unmoving.

“Promise?” Horane prompted again nervously and could not help but smile as Elit finally brightened up and nodded his head, interlacing his little finger with Horane’s, sealing their promise with the same smile.

“Promise!”

Then, they practically hopped up their trees to probably discuss some other stuffs and I could only stand there staring dumbly after them, as I felt myself basked in warmth. Touching as it is and definitely would always be a part of their limited happy memories. I could only hope that they friendship would pull them through this whole damn thing…cause friendship and care is what is keeping us all alive around here…and speaking of friend…

HOLY!!! I FORGOTTEN ABOUT SETTING UP THE CAMP!!! Rina is so gonna kill me I thought sadly to myself and quickly rushed off to set up with my fastest speed, hopefully not making Rina wait too much. She hates anyone who is not punctual and really hates waiting for anything even for a minute because time is precious…wait for no man…etc. And I still want to live to be able to see the other group and hear Tyol’s explanation… which totally spark my curiosity again, and SHIT!! NO!! ATHEN GANTZ!! CONCENTRATE!!! I scolded myself and climbed the chosen tree easily, settling all the necessary stuffs like putting up some minor wards to ward off insects, animals and also an alarm to alert us of anything strangers. I need to put up some more things but time waits for no man… sadly enough…

Quickly, I fumbled around carelessly while panicking all the way, afraid of a certain blonde that will murder me for being so slow…

Chapter 1 - Discovered

2010-02-17T03:13:00.000-08:00

This is actually the newest edited chapter for chapter 1, with a few changes here and there and a new character. i am currently working on chapter 2, which is only 10 pages long with... around 5,000 words and trust me, i am not half way done with it. And with the campcraft com coming up... no time sia, but will try my best and CHEN KEYUN DON'T COME AND CHAO WO YOU HEAR ME?!

AND FIONA!!! HOW COME YOU KNOW MY BLOG!!!!

AND KYL, IF YOU ARE READING THIS, CONGRATS FOR FINDING MY BLOG!!!

oh well, caps was kind of fun and here is the chapter~

Chapter 1 – Discovered

I jerked awake immediately.

I realized that I was panting, hard, and that cold sweat was flowing freely down my cheeks. For a while, I was unable to comprehend what had just happened, and just lied there, staring blankly at the damaged ceiling before me.

After my breathing was back to normal, I recollected what happened just now, shifting uncomfortably in my small and thin mattress. It was the same dream again. That goddamn dream. I don’t even know why I even have these dreams. It was always the same.

Darkness surrounds me except for a single beam of light shining upon myself. Sitting there dumbly, it was mere seconds later before scenes flash before me. I have no idea if it was made-up or a part of my memory, but all I know is that I never once enjoyed it, because it wasn’t joyful at all. Fires would start erupting out of nowhere while screams and shouts filled the air. Then, I would be ‘transported’ into it, enabling me to see clearly what was actually happening. It was clear that it was in a house, two stories but it was all engulfed in flames. A lone figure stood his ground in a corridor, with a four-legged beast beside him. His features were blurred and blackened, like a shadow, but I can see clearly that he was tired, for his frame was trembling slightly while his chest rise up and down rapidly. Half-crouched, he seemed to be ready to spring at the people dressed in battle gears in front of him, the people who had charged in through the opened door. They visibly tense upon seeing the man, but suddenly, an evil laughter would fill the air, making every being in the room freeze. As all turned their heads towards the sound, another man emerged from the crowd, but not alone.

As the soldiers made way for him, the man strolled forward, in his arms a woman who was apparently dead. Her eyes were closed but from how pale her skin look, she was gone from this world. The very same man shouted something and laughter soon filled the whole place. The lone figure was obviously angered, as he clenched his fist and asked something in a calm tone. His question was answered by only laughter again as another man came into view, this time holding a child who could not be more than 7 years of age. The man was holding the poor child up by his hair, but the child did not scream, instead, kicking wildly at the man and trying to free himself. The child must had said something to anger the man because the man gritted his teeth and actually flung the child against the wall. A whimper escaped the child and then he lay limp. Sadistic laughs were heard yet again but they did not notice the waves of fury coming from the lone figure and his partner. Though it was a dream, I could feel the strong magical waves he was emitting, the anger and hatred in it. Hell broke lose as the figure flew into a frenzy, shocking the crowd of soldiers. The scene was very gory and violent. Limbs were torn apart from bodies while pieces of flesh exploded in every direction. The house was decorated with a new colour of red and limbs as the man and beast continued their attacks. The soldiers were either burnt alive or torn apart, the figure obviously showing no mercy at all with his attacks. The soldiers were no match at all for the man as he and his partner lashed out at the enemy. The flames engulfing the house grew even bigger and fiercer as the one-sided fight continued.

Then, I would no longer be in the house; instead, I would be outside, floating in the air. It was then I would witness that the whole house was actually surrounded by more soldiers, more than a hundred as each rushed into the fight to replace their fallen comrades. Waves after waves rushed into the flaming house, seeming to be never ending. Always shivering upon seeing such a violent and bloody fight, I forced myself to see the next scene. A yell would fill the air before the whole house would explode, its intensity affecting the area around it for at least a kilometer. It was like a volcano erupting, but far worse as it was pure waves of magic spreading the magic that wide. The intense light momentarily blinded the whole scene and as sudden as the explosion came, it went away. The soldiers were all cremated into ashes before they even knew what had happen, not even able to scream out in fear. All that was left was a very blackened area, the house no longer there and the soldiers all dead, burnt to death. Even the trees that was nearby was burned to pieces, not even leaving behind a single piece of bark. The lone figure and beast stood there, surveying the scene before them. The child and lady were surprisingly still alive and I knew that the man had shielded them both from the feriocious attack. I thought that the man would now bring the child to safety, however; instead he walked towards the child, ruffling his hair soothingly before the man grabbed his shoulders. In a moment, the child was gone and the man stood up, only to fall back down again as his partner rushed to his side. The scene would then start to fade, leaving to wonder what does all this had to do with me…

“At…? At…?” A soft voice broke my train of thoughts and I immediately recognized it as ten-year-old Vintel.

We found him when he was seven, all alone as he tried to find scraps of food to survive. He did not trust us at first, but slowly, he opened up to us and we found out that his father was executed just because he offended an official, and that his mother and himself were going to be executed too because they were his family. It was cruel and unfair and his mother and him immediately tried to escape, with his mother dying on the attempt to save Vintel from an attack. That memory always hunt him as the enemy blew a hole up in his mother stomach, something a kid shouldn’t have to see at all. All the blood… the sheer terror would even make an untrained adult shiver in fear. He was lucky to escape because if not, another innocent life would be taken by those scoundrels again.

“What’s wrong Vin? Did you have a nightmare again?” I asked softly as the small figure emerged from the dark slowly to stand at my side.

He nodded his head slowly and I could see that he was trying to hold back his tears that were threatening to fall. I sat up and patted the empty space on my side, gesturing for him to sit. As he came to sit I noted that it was still dark, meaning that morning has not yet come. Pressing a button on my wristband, it showed 3am in the morning. What a time to wake up.

“Are you the only one awake?” I asked again and Vintel nodded his head, and I confirmed my answer as I heard light snoring from the rest of the occupants in the room.

“Want to tell me about it?” I inquired softly as I started to rub his back soothingly in small circles, hoping to ease his pain and fear.

“…Can I just sleep beside you?” he questioned in a timid voice. Who am I to refuse him?

Nodding my head, he seemed to literally beam as he settled himself quickly onto my mattress. Snuggling himself deep into my blankets while I continued to rub his back, I could see that he was slowly being lulled into sleep. His eyelids were only half opened now as his breathing became more even. However, he was still fighting the sleep that was trying to overwhelm him. It must be the nightmares that he always had, the one whereby his parents were forcefully taken away from him when he was only eight…

“…At? Can you sing me the song moonlight?” he asked wearily in his half-trance like state and I was more than happy to comply, anything to let him go back to sleep again because he will definitely need it.

Smiling, I opened my mouth to start the lullaby that I would always sing to the kids for them to fall asleep. For some reasons, it always seemed to work.

Moonlight ~ Oh moonlight~
Where are you today?~
For when the Sun comes~
You just go away~

Moonlight ~ Oh moonlight~
I miss you so much ~
I have to wait for night to fall~
Before you come to me~

Moonlight ~Moonlight ~
I miss your presence~
Though the Sun keeps us warm~
You keep us calm~
Your light always seemed soothing~
And calms every soul you shine upon~
Being one of those lucky souls~
I love you so much~

Moonlight ~ Oh Moonlight~
Where are you today?
Hopefully I can see you~
When the night comes again~

With that, I ended the song and took a long breath before taking a look at Vintel. As expected, he was already asleep, with an innocent and naïve look on his face, like any other child. Satisfied with my success, I smiled to myself and patted his head softly. After a minute, I stood up quietly. Tightening the belt that held my sword, I made my way outside, all the while avoided tripping over anything or anyone. Reaching the doorway, I observed my surroundings. It was really quiet and peaceful, like any other night. Sighing contently, I started to walk down the hallway, knowing that I would not be able to catch any sleep any time soon.

This place we were living at is in a small country, along the borders separating Rayli and Poncal, and that was why definitely a safe place for us to hide. When it was this close to the borders, both of the two biggest nations would not be bothered to send their soldiers to such a place to be bothered with the likes of us. All the transportation and manpower they need for them to get here was just a waste of time and money I should say. And of course, I am obviously elated that they would not bother with us, which would save us all of the troubles of trying to escape their claws. I know that the government of Poncal would not be bothered with us, for they have better things to do, but I definitely can confirm the fact that our biggest enemy, Rayli, or rather their soldiers, called D.O.H. They were obviously some blithe idiots, who all think that we should be destroyed and then will the world be peaceful and clean. Hooray. And also, I don’t know what the letters mean but who cares? All I need to know is that I totally resent them not only because of the fact that they would hunt every single one of us down, but also deemed us to be inferior compared to them.

Why are we inferior? One would ask. And all I could say is that all of them are just some stupid proud peacocks. Just because they are pure and powerful doesn’t give them the rights to come and kill us off. ‘Dirt of the society’ they called us, while I would call them ‘peacocks that don’t know how to rule a country’, which is totally true. I mean, which sane country would try to eliminate every single being, whether you are human or not, just because your blood was not pure and your powers not up to standard? Why does blood purity even matters?

“Nightmares again At?” a deep voice asked and I immediately recognized it as our leader Tyol.

Turning my head to the left, I saw Tyol down the hallway by a few meters, walking towards me with slow and steady steps. His orange hair was of darker shade in the night while his sword glittered beautifully under the moonlight. Tyol had the air of calmness and coolness about him, which immediately soothed my angry thoughts just now.

“So it’s your turn to patrol tonight?” I asked casually, trying to change the subject of the conversation since I was still unwillingly to talk to anyone about it, though Tyol roughly knows what was always keeping me up during the nights.

“Yes. Now answer the question.” He stated simply as he came to a stop beside me, raising an eyebrow as he demanded for an answer.

I looked at him for a while before nodding my head. Tyol frowned upon my answer and was probably going to give me the talk of how unhealthy it was but I stopped him quickly and efficiently.

“Ty…I don’t want to be rude or anything…but… I don’t want to talk about it…not now…”I mumbled and looked away from his light grey eyes, opting to stare at the half moon instead.

“Ok…I am not going to force you to talk or anything…”Tyol started and I mentally heaved a sigh of relief, “but if you do want to talk about it, I am available anytime.”

“Thanks Ty…” I muttered and stared at the sky again, letting the silence hang awkwardly in the air as I continued from my train of thoughts just now.

“So, what are you thinking about right now? D.O.H?” He inquired as he moved to stare at the sky too, all the while sneaking glances at me to see if I was willing to talk after such a touchy subject.

“Ya, those bastards. Even though they are following the orders of Rayli, I still hate them cause they are destroying everyone’s life, even children like Vin…” I hissed in fury as I clenched my fists hard.

Noticing my movement, Tyol placed an comforting hand on my arm, shooting me a look to calm down.

“Who doesn’t hate them?” Tyol said as he sighed, before continuing, “All of us do, because our families were ripped apart because of them. But, this isn’t the end is it? We still have each other and with that, we’ll pull through this till we find a place that would actually accept us. For now, we have to lay low cause the peacocks are on sugar high to capture every single one of us.” He grinned at the end and I couldn’t help but grin back. Sarcastic, but I like it.

“Hmm…you’re right. Thanks Ty.” I thanked Ty as he managed to calm me down like always, since I was often angered by how they tried to rule us; condemn us as though we are worse than dogs.

“No prob little At.” And I could sense the cheekiness in his voice

“Hey! I’m not little!!!!” I managed a half-scream at him since I did not want to wake the whole building up.

“As much as I like to say that too…you are only fourteen and you don’t even reach my shoulders…” Tyol started and moved to stand beside me, clearly trying to indicate that I indeed do no reach his shoulders at all. I glared at him in mock anger before grinning at him and giving him a slap on his back. A hard slap actually…

“OW!!!” Tyol screamed a little too loudly and his hand flew to his mouth quickly but obviously too late to cover his scream.

Staring at him, I raised an eyebrow and gave him a ‘does it hurt that much’ look.

“Of course it hurts you brat. How about I try that on you too?” he hissed angrily, but I could see that he was joking as he was trying very hard to put on an offended look, which he failed at it miserably.

Choosing to act nonchalant about the whole matter, I shrugged and started to walk away, planning to accompany Tyol on his patrol. I could practically feel Tyol give me an incredulous look before catching up with me. Determined to get his revenge, he slapped him back on the head and I almost fall face first on the ground if I haven’t caught myself. Glaring at him again, I met his eye and he chuckled softly. I could see the amusement in his eyes. However, he must have predicted that I would retaliate because he walked away in long strides before I could do anything. Cursing under my breath, I increased my pace and was almost beside him when he quickened his steps again, leaving me behind. Almost able to hear him whistling to himself happily, I walked even faster, forcing myself to not break out in a run. As I was going to catch up for the second time, Tyol went even faster and left me in the dust again. ARGH!!!! From this day onwards, I declare war on those who can walk so fast.

Just when I was going to start running, a sudden idea formed in my head as I stared at Tyol’s back. Oh this is indeed a wonderful plan…

Grinning mischievously, I soften the sound of my footsteps and proceeded to catch him off guard. Moving faster and softer with each step, I was a few steps behind the unknowing Tyol and then at the right moment, I pounced on him. I earn myself an indignant yelp as both of us tumbled to the ground. Having the advantage of being on top of him, I started to tickle him mercilessly and he lost the strength to throw me off. Our laughter filled the air, as we were engrossed in our own little game and we failed to notice the devil herself that was approaching us…

“Mr Yiho and Mr Gantz… May I asked why the both of you are on the ground when one is supposed to be in bed and the other on a patrol?” an emotionless voice was heard and we froze immediately, knowing full well who was speaking.

Ominous silence hung in the air and Tyol was the brave one to break it first. Pushing me off himself gently, he stood up and also pulled me to my feet quickly. Planting on his best smile that I always labeled as ‘the smile to get away from trouble’, he looked at the person who had made our blood freeze to the core just now.

“Well…about that… At and I was just actually…” Tyol hesitated as he tried to think of a reason and the brilliant me supplied it immediately.

“I…er… I saw a bug crawled into Ty’s shirt and I was just trying to help him get the bug out.” I managed to lie in a calm tone and secretly nudged Tyol, who got the signal and nodded his head in agreement.

“Ya! At was just being a kind soul and helping me.” Tyol added and let out a nervous chuckle, hoping to ease the suspicion of said person in front of him

Said person was none other than Rina, or rather, Tyol’s ‘secretary’. Her blonde hair and gold eyes only makes her more scary and intimidating. She is the one who always made sure that everyone is following the rules, schedules, and takes care of a lot of work together with Tyol. But having a serious AND perfectionist secretary was obviously not a good combination at all. When Tyol is…goofing off like she always said, she would somehow be there to drag him back to do the necessary work, and start to lecture him on what would happen if he doesn’t do this etc… I think I kind of memorise it now when I have heard it for don’t know how many times.

“Then where is the bug, may I asked?” Rina stated the blunt obvious and gave one of her hard looks at us and my sixth sense tells me that we are busted.

“Ahaha…Hey! You know what? I feel tired all of a sudden! So… bye! I’m going to sleep right now. And er… Ty! Er… good luck on your patrol!” I stammered all the way and gave Tyol a pat on the shoulder. Then with my speed, I moved back to my rooms hastily because I do indeed feel tired.

Tyol’s point of view

The kid ran off before I could even shout ‘D.O.H is here!’, but it’s not like I can do that anyway because I most probably wouldn’t live to see the next day especially with Rina here in front of me. With a dramatic sigh, I faced the devil herself. I knew from the start that we were busted, but it was still worth a try. Never give up till you tried right?

“Ty, stop slacking and start working! You’re the leader here for goodness sake! How can you set such a bad example? And you know that our dear Mr. prankster is already very creative, so stop giving him any ideas! And for the last time, don’t take the patrols for grunted! We can’t afford anyone infiltrating here or we would have to find another place, which is very difficult and very time-consuming. We wouldn’t have enough food or water or manpower to do so and you know it yourself! Once is already enough, I won’t want the same mistake to be made. Also, report the previous events to other areas because we need to keep each other updated. And the training that is scheduled tomorrow, or rather today since it’s 4am, you still haven’t plan out the timeline yet! How are we supposed to teach the children then? And…” Rina rattled on and rattled and I could feel a vein in my brain bust, or was it supposed to be an artery?

“Rina…” I started as I tried to stop her from babbling on because if she did I am sure that a headache is going to start.

“Don’t ‘Rina’ me! You aren’t going to get away from this until you hear finish what I have said. Do you know how much work is waiting for you to be done? And here you are…” it’s going to start all over again, just that she is going to use a different way to scold me. Dear god, she’s such a wonderful secretary. And dear me, please notice the blunt sarcasm I am using here.

“Rina…I know I know! I know what I am supposed to do and for goodness sake, I am an adult. Wait, I know that you are just trying to help me but I’ll finish all these work after I patrol finish ok?” I assured her and was glad that she finally stopped and raised an eyebrow. Seriously, they must have picked up the habit from At because that kid just loves to do that.

“Yes…I promise…” I stated but Rina still gave me a blank look and with a sigh, I added, “I totally swear that I would finish ALL the work that is given to me or I am not going to sleep at all. Satisfied?”

Nodding her head in approval, she gave me a warm smile and I flashed one back at her. So much work, and only one me… wait… who voted me to be leader again?

‘That At… he’s like our beam of light isn’t he? And I am sure that his presence is getting onto you too. You weren’t that… friendly before we found him.” Rina said and I glared at her, but soften up at the memories of At. At is a great kid. Though he is not the most powerful person on Antel, he is definitely the brightest beam of light I ever saw. I have to admit what Rina said just now – before we found him, I was the more serious type, always focusing on the tedious work and burden set upon me and I was often frustrated by it. At that time, I knew that I had to bear the responsibility of assuring all the other kids safety because Arcane left the whole group in my care. I was desperate at first, not really all that confident about my abilities though people like Rina were here to help me. Since I was tired out by it often, I was found to be in a bad mood almost every day from the lack of sleep. Once, I even wanted to just go somewhere where I did not have to worry about this and live a normal live, because I was totally sick and tired of it. Why me? Why not someone else? And soon, I was becoming harsher and colder to everyone around me… Urgh, I don’t even want to think about it. Well, that was until little At came along. He was shy and very close-mouthed at first, but slowly opened up and quickly made many friends. He even managed to worm his way into my heart at that time, reminding me why I was doing this in the first place – to protect all of these kids. And boy was I glad that the haze in my exhausted mind was clear, and my desire was clearly seen. I soon realized that I firstly needed to change my attitude and what I could clearly see what heart desire, I set out to change myself to a better leader. Have to thank little At for that. But I don’t think that he even knows it… he must have done it subconsciously then…

“Yep, great kid.” I answered.

We both smiled knowingly at each other and I proceeded back to on my damn patrol on the look out for the proud and stupid peacocks, while Rina went to take care some of the admin work. Boy oh boy, what a wonderful day today. And my back is aching already, must be that brat’s fault…I am going to get him for this.

Athen’s point of view

“At…! At…! Earth to At!!!!” someone practically shouted in my ears but I chose to ignore it and flipped myself to the other side, to get myself further away from that damn person. I needed SLEEP. My beauty sleep and don’t think that by just having one earth calling to me will make a goddamn difference.

“Little At… don’t make me call you a second time cause you won’t like it.” The person warns and I have a rough idea that it was Tyol. He is the only one around that ever calls me little. Still, like I am gonna bother with him. SLEEP is more important than waking up and I hate mornings so from today onwards, there shall be no more mornings, only afternoons.

“Don’t make me do this At…” do what? Why don’t you try it and I will think about waking up huh?

“You asked for it, so don’t blame me, since it is your shift today to cook breakfast…” I still don’t care and I doubt that you can make me wak… ARGH!!! WHAT THE HELL?!

A sudden freezing sensation was felt around my neck, too cold and prickling for my liking. It was as though little needles were pocking at my neck and…it was so cold!!! I can’t feel my neck anymore!! My eyes flash open and stared at the guy that had frozen my neck, and said person also fully knew well that I hated cold, especially in the morning.

“I did warn you so don’t glare at me like that.” He drawled casually and released his magic on me when he saw how awake I was. He was grinning like a maniac though… he’s hiding something and is also happy that he managed to use his magic on me…must be revenge.

“I did nothing to you right? So why are you so joyful about it?” I snapped back at him. Argh, I hate mornings.

“Hmmm? Joyful? Which part me seems joyful to you?” every part you idiot.

I gave him a ‘are you serious’ look and stared intensely at his grey eyes, sensing the amusement and glee in it. Still, he never backed down from my stare and I grumbled in annoyance. Brushing my fingers through my black hair to set it straight, I ignored Tyol’s presence and moved towards the doorway to go to the kitchen and prepare breakfast. When I realized that I was last one to wake, I quickened my steps immediately. Pressing the same button, I checked that the time was 7.30am. Too early…but definitely late for the breakfast.

“At? Oh come on At. Don’t be so petty! I was just joking around!” Tyol exclaimed as he caught up beside me easily.

I gave him a contemplative look before quoting a sentence from Rina, and also imitate her voice. “Leaders…don’t joke around.”

“Very funny At. For your info, I finished all my work so Rina wouldn’t or rather, can’t do anything to me.” Tyol informed calmly. Damn, I thought that he would have missed something and then I will get my revenge. Che, this ain’t fun at all. Why does Tyol have to be so observant? I hate him.

“You can’t blame me for being a astute person little At, after all, leaders can’t joke around can they?” Tyol suggested in a bored tone as he quoted back my words… now I can’t use those words again.

Just when I was about to snapped back at him, something latch around my leg and I would have kicked it if I had not seen that mop of white and grayish hair.

“At!! I’m hungry~” the voice whine and as he refused to detach himself from my poor legs. Seriously…I don’t even know why I didn’t just act on my instinct in the first place.

“Lit…I can’t make your hunger go away if you don’t get off me.” I stated and start to pry Elit’s arms off me. For an eleven year old, he’s kind of strong. He’s stopping my leg’s circulation.

“Fine. But I want my food in ten minutes.” He demanded as he stalked back to his chair and plopped down, staring intensely at the table in front of him as though said food would just pop out.

“Sure, my fault for being late. Bread, ham and Xay is fine right?” I asked while moving towards the fridge to get the said items out and cook up breakfast. I am just asking for the sake of asking and it’s not like we have lots of choices in the first place anyway.

“Yep!” a whole lot of voices agreed in unison before breaking off into chatters again, but some napping on the table. People like Milaran,Vintel, and surprisingly Negil too with a dazed look on their faces. They aren’t morning persons either then.

After counting that there are seven kids waiting for breakfast, and three more who are joining later, I would need eleven sets of breakfast, including myself. First, I took out about two Xays, a kind of fruit that is like an apple but more oval in shape and has a sweet and sour taste in it. Cutting it into equal small pieces, I placed it on the seven plates and then moved on to cooking the ham. Since we only got 2 pans, I just have to make do with it. I dripped some oil onto the pans and then placed one piece on each pan and drawing out my magic, starting to cook the hams. Making sure that my fire was concentrated at the bottom of the pan, just directly under the area of the ham, I increase the heat till I could hear some sizzling. I stuck with the same temperature and staring cooking, whistling all the way while doing some stunts to show off. Yes, show off, cause I know that kids like to go ‘wow!’ when you just flip the ham single-handedly. Ha, they just don’t know what is practice makes perfect.

After ten minutes of quick cooking, with big thanks to my fire magic, I double-checked that the hams were thoroughly cook so that Rina would not come and murder me. Satisfied, I took out the bread from the cupboard and placed it on each plate. Before I could even announced that it was done, the plates were either snatched away by hands, got levitated to the table by magic, or simply teleported to the table. Seriously, can’t they use their own limbs for once? They all mumbled a quick thanks before tucking in, gobbling down their food like they haven’t eaten for days. I mean, I know that we aren’t very well fed but it’s not like Tyol is starving them right?

Paying no attention to their behavior for my stomach was not really ready for any food; I walked over to the other side of the kitchen and filled a cup with water. Taking my half-filled water, I went to an empty seat and plopped myself down onto the chair, still managing to take notice how the kids had finished three-quarters of their meals in less than 2 minutes. One day, I need to teach them table manners…

Sighing, I looked around the small but comforting kitchen. The place I was sitting at is in the middle of the kitchen, with a rectangular brown table and about ten chairs surrounding it. Behind me was just some more cupboards built in counters (mostly empty though) and a sink. The white fridge was at the opposite corner, though not really white in colour… and beside it is a counter about 3.5meters long and has our supplies in its cupboards. The counter was just simply a mixture of brown and a darker kind of brown… which reminds me… almost all is made of wood. Oh ya and that stove…

“Ya, we should get rid of the stove right Athen? It’s just taking up the space since you don’t even use it.” A familiar voice sounded from the doorway and upon turning my head, realized that it was the forgotten Tyol. Err…ops?

“It’s not like we have that many things to put.” I commented and continue sipping my water. Damn, I am so going to buy some coffee powder… and steal it if I have to.

“Your right, we don’t have that much things anyway. And if I threw it away, I will end up freezing everyone’s meals!” Tyol laugh and moved to get water, not noticing how the kids held their plates closer to themselves after hearing his sentence.

I was about to tease about Tyol’s ice magic when a sudden beeping sound filled the room, a sound that I always hated since it was used for emergency situations, which always spells disaster.

“Shit.” I cursed and quickly pressed a button labeled with and ‘R’ on my wristband. Tyol grumbled a while as his expressions turned serious before he too, pressed the same button on his own wristband. Please not let what I think is happening to happen… I had enough of the damn peacocks already! Why can’t they just leave us in peace?

“Emergency! Section 1 had been discovered by the peacocks and is moving on quickly to Section 2. Group 2 and 3, please prepare for double ‘e’ double ‘two’! Group 4 and 5, please prepare for double ‘e’ double ‘five’! E.T.A of animals to section 2 at 10mins! Please carry on ASAP! Any further arrangements would be communicated through ‘mpwb’ by T.Y. Lin would meet up with any of the groups later. Out.” Lincoln’s voice was heard as he desperately tried to keep calm and state what we should do and not revealing anything much to the enemies if our systems were ever hacked. I could hear how hard he was panting and also faint screaming and yelling in the background. Shit… this is bad. 10 minutes? Oh great, JUST GREAT! DAMN IT!!! What are we supposed to do now? And how the hell did they know where we were? ARGH!!!

“Received. E.T.A to double ‘two’ at 7 mins. Out.” Tyol answered back calmly as his face turned deadly serious.

Tyol’s point of view

The only possible reason? There is a mole in us who is giving out the information. I’d loved to whack that person myself but no, now is not the time. At is already panicking by that deep frown on his face. I know how much he hates them because I do so myself and the disastrous situation isn’t helping either. Lin is always right when he estimates things like this and if it is 10mins, it only meant that the peacocks had already taken care of Section 1 and is now halfway to reaching here, which is Section 2. Lin must also be using the other way to reach section 22 or spying on them. But I know that he will keep himself safe. So now, we must quickly pack and escape, without leaving any trail behind. We need to start moving now, and if I don’t stay calm too, all will start to panic, especially the kids… they are trembling already, and the usual collected and quiet and composed Negil was of no exception either.

“At. Grab all the stuff you can while Rina and me will take care of the rest. You have 2 minutes so hastened up and meet us outside when you are done.” I instructed Athen, hopefully he will calm down enough, or I will knock some sense into him because we simply don’t have time to panic.

At first, he froze for a while, before he closed his eyes, took a deep breath and nodded his head, eyes focused and filled with determination. He isn’t shaking anymore from the announcement of the situation. Good, now I can leave the place here to him while I go take care of the rest. Giving him a reassuring nod, I sprinted towards the core area of this place to deactivate everything and wiped away our presence of ever staying here. We don’t have much time but if everyone follows the usual drill, we will be fine.

I am sure of it cause there is no way I am going to let those peacocks take away any of the kids again, not while I am here.

Athen’s point of view

I watched Tyol sprint out of the door at full speed. I would have probably sit there and froze too like the other kids, but I can’t, cause Tyol needs me and the kids also need someone to guide them out of this mess. Bad memories are flashing through me, showing me my incompetence in the past because of my carelessness and stupidity. I did not want that to happen again…no I must not let that happen.

“Ok guys, you heard the man. Now, remember our drills? I am going to clear the food and you guys go and filled up your bottles full to its max. But all of you wouldn’t be able to do so, so just try to fill up as many as possible and we’ll distribute them later. Then, when you are finished, help each other out and make sure that your emergency bags are with you, along with the supplies. Ok move now! Chop chop!” I encouraged in a pretty strained calm voice as the children look at me for a while before dashing off to the tap, each taking out their bottles to fill up. As for me, I hastened towards the cupboard and summoned my bag from my wristband. I placed three-quarters of what we had into the bag, and stuffed the rest into the one of many bags around my belt. All of us had this bag belt, or double ‘b’ as we called it because in case of situations like these, we will always be prepared.

My heart was pounding hard against my chest, and it took me my full will not to tremble and drop the food. I can’t help it. Flashes of my past just keep flashing before me, mocking me and berating me for my idiotic actions… because of my mistake, it cost a person her life and endangered the rest…

“At? We are done with all the preparations…” A girl of eleven years of age, named Beria, asked in a small voice as she shook me slightly to get my attention.

Turning around, I see all the kids’ eyes on me, waiting for me to tell them what to do next. They were all scared too. Fear was written clearly on their faces and they were almost on the verge of breaking down and crying. They had also witness the cruelty of the world, and knew that that had to fight for their own rights, their freedom even if they were only children. They need me now, and I must not fail them.

With a newfound determination, I nodded my head and smiled at them encouragingly, glad that some of them had relaxed their tensed shoulders and were in the process of calming down.

“Good, now, follow me closely. Also make sure that your partners are with you at all times, if not, report to me immediately. Understood?” I enquired gently but firmly to let them know that this was serious matter, not the time to joke around.

They all nodded their heads and moved to each of their individual partners. After I scanned them and did a headcount, I quickly moved out to meet with Tyol and Rina, knowing that they would also be finish with their jobs. The damn peacocks are close; I could almost feel their annoying but ominous presence. I could also practically imagine them stomping this place at anytime as I moved swiftly towards the back of the house. The screaming, wailings, and the laughter of them subduing their victims were just purely disgusting… inhumane freaks…

“At? You’re done packing the supplies right?” Tyol asked as he emerged from the corner together with Rina, both panting as they hastily moved to stand beside us.

I nodded my head, giving them the reply they want since I did not trust my voice to not break under this tense atmosphere… and the memories that keep flashing was not making things any better either… Shit, I am scared…

I was barely able to control myself from flinching away from the hand that had placed itself upon my slightly trembling shoulders. It was Tyol and he knew that I was scared. His eyes tried to calm me and he gave my shoulder a firm squeeze, as though telling me that what happened in the past was not my fault, and that I should not dwell on it because it would only hider my present. I don’t know how he managed to always guess what I am thinking… but I thank him for trying to comfort me… cause I definitely need it now seeing the nervous state I am in. I would have probably break down if I was just like any other normal kid… but seeing that I ain’t that normal… oh well.

Tyol’s point of view

I bet me and Rina would have won any sprinting race with the speed we were going at just now… and if it was not for Rina being a speed user… I don’t think I can make it and she’s fast as usual. But seriously, if I haven’t force myself to run at that kind of speed every single day… I think I would be dead by now. I mean, first running to the core of the house an shutting it off, then to the rooms to clear our other belongings, which means destroy it or bring it along, then running around the practice area to clear off any magical presence and then run around the whole house and make sure that we didn’t raise any alarms… all in two minutes… I can practically feel the muscle ache I am going to have the next day… oh joy.

And I am kind of worried about little At… it must be because the past accident that is haunting him, and that person’s death… I pity for him but now is not the time and At hates anyone who sympathizes him… and I could sense the approach of a large magical presence that was cleverly hidden. They cover their magical powers by blending in with the surroundings, like camouflaging and only a expert in this area would be able to sense them. But I am only a novice in it and if Lin haven’t told be I wouldn’t even notice their approach. They are getting even closer again and if we don’t get out of here now, it will be the end of group 2.

“Ok, I am going to lead us to area 22, all of your follow closely and don’t leave any trail behind, including your magical trail. No sound and fast pace. Let’s move.” I commanded calmly and doing a check over the whole area again, I dashed of into the forest nearby, hearing several quiet footsteps following closely behind me. Tired as I am, I have to lead them to safety and with Rina as the rearguard, we won’t be leaving any traces behind and those damn peacocks wouldn’t be able to sense us at all, even with their hounds.

Leading the whole group on a familiar trail (to us it is but for the peacocks…), we did not exchange any words because of the tense atmosphere. I know that Rina is anxious, but not at all afraid while the rest, including At, was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Understandable, cause I have been through all of this before and at that time, I was twelve, but these kids at the oldest eleven and little At was fourteen only… they are not even adults… and I have to admire their bravery for being able to stay calm and composed, especially At, cause after such a terrible experience would leave any teenagers sobbing.

We were hardly making any sounds and we were further and further away from the magical presence, lightening the burden that I felt on my shoulders a minute ago. I am not afraid of them, but I don’t want them near the kids, ad I definitely wouldn’t let them make any one of us suffer the cruelty and humiliation of slavery.

Also, I am desperate to know what had happened to Section1, the first place that was being attack. I am sure that Rina had the same thing on her mind too, cause they would have been caught by surprise, and if Lin weren’t visiting them to attend to the mechanical matters there… we would have been sitting ducks at the house, waiting for them to charge in and take us. There would only be 3 fighters, Rina, At and me since the kids wouldn’t be a match against the adults, physically and magically. The number of experienced fighters had to be spread out thin ever since Arcane they all left, cause each group would need someone to guide them and we can’t stay in a big group for fear of getting caught. Small and conspicuous was the best, while we also make sure that our communication system was well-balanced, as well as our defense too as we would always have lessons to teach the kids fighting skills, though we did not want them to learn at all. But to survive, they have to harbor these skills of they would just die. It was eat or be eaten, or just simply be smart enough to run and escape, was what I always tell them

I have my suspicions about this whole matter, and also pray that there will be no casualties at the Section 1. Zackery is in charge. He is capable and strong but being on the receiving end of the surprised attack will do no army good and I could only hope they managed to escape from the peacocks. I could only suspect that someone had betrayed us, who I don’t know cause I know that we were all very loyal to one another. Having suffered the same fate and having the same enemy, who would betray us unless the peacocks have came into contact with the mole and either threaten that person, or bribe him. If it was the latter, I would personally rip that person to pieces myself, for loyalty is very much valued in our codes as it is what that had kept us together.

About three minutes have passed. We heard no one following us and we all relax a little and the heavy atmosphere lighten by a tiny bit, not much because we were still not sure if they would ambush us from somewhere. And they may also be silently following us and trailing us so that we could lead them to the big group… maybe I am the only one being paranoid, by apparently, being paranoid is good for health here.

After sensing around for any presence, I heaved a sigh of relief to know that no stranger was to be found. There were only the animals residing in this forest and have all scampered away upon sensing our arrival. Which reminds me… they can’t like threaten animals to tell them where we are can they? I am so going to have that checked out and confirmed…

There was a sudden clearing in front and I could hear the faint sound of a rushing river, which signals that we were closed to area 22. Area 22 is near a river source and has several other food sources around as well so we could probably camp there for some time before we find any place to live. The place weren’t big enough for tents, but that’s the whole purpose cause we will be sleeping on trees instead, so that the enemies would have less chance of finding us when we are in such a big group. And when we reach there I would need time to figure this whole thing out since there is something fishy going on…

Luckily for me, we soon reached the designated area and were all panting hard since we were sprinting all the way, about more than 500 meters I should say. Man, we should all participate in some sprinting event and we would all be champions. Wouldn’t that be good for a change?

“Ok guys, we’re here and looks like we are the first. We’ll have to wait for the others to arrive before we do anything else. You all can drink from the river and have a snack too to catch your breaths. I would scout around the area and see if I can meet up with group 3. You guys have to stay here and remain silent and hidden. No sound, no activities other than drinking and eating. No wondering around and no fires. Listen to Rina while I am gone. Am I clear on this?” I asked as I listed out all the things. We can’t have them discovered another secret location or we’ll all be doomed.

They stared at me for a while before nodding their heads and moving on to their drinks and food. At on the other hand, raise an eyebrow at me in amusement. He smirked at me and then started going around to monitor the kids, making sure that they didn’t eat up all their supplies and that no one suffered any injuries. Man that kid, I would have had him in a headlock for mocking at my sudden display of leadership if not for this situation, though he will also make a good leader too. Trust him to be able to joke in times like this. But it also means that he was putting down the past and concentrating on the present instead. Good for him, and with both Rina and him around, I would be able to scout around without worrying about them getting into trouble… but I can’t say for sure about At… after all he is not dubbed as ‘Mr. Prankster’ by Rina for no reason.

I looked towards Rina, who seemed to be neither panting nor tired from this whole run. Upon seeing my stare, her lips tugged upwards in a small smile and nodded her head, assuring me that it was safe for me to go check things out. I flashed back a small smile and walked towards the direction of Section 3, moving silently and avoiding any bushes, twigs or branches. I also continuously checked the magical presence around the whole area 22 and triple checked that no stranger was lurking nearby to try and ambush us. Section 3 were the third closest to area 22, they should be arriving soon. Quiylanlanzo was in charge of group 3 and I could only hope and pray that they were all safe… and that no one was injured nor captured. As for Group 4 and 5… Jacquer should be able to take care of them… and hopefully we would be able to meet up with Lincoln too…

But now that I have some peace and quiet, it’s time to figure some things out…hmm…

Athen’s point of view

I almost wanted to tease Tyol about his sudden aura of a leader, but I have to restrain myself. Though having Tyol around to guide us is a good thing as we are all following our trainings and drills, and so far have not messed up anything yet. His calming yet firm presence is having an impact on all of us, as though there was a warm blanket covering us to soothe us of our fears. Well whatever, as long as we are calm, the peacocks will never find us.

Fishing out two bottles of drinks from my bags in the belt, I settled down beside Rina and gave her one of it. She took it and muttered a ‘thanks’, and sipped the water slowly, all the while scanning the area over and over again to check for any signs of the enemy. Following her movements, I sipped slowly too since it isn’t good to gulped down one big chunk, and instead of scanning the surroundings, I scanned the kids instead and always did a mental headcount every single minute. I kept checking that everyone was present, no one was hurt, no one was fooling around and that all the supplies were still intact. Great, Tyol and Rina’s paranoid nature is rubbing on me, now we would make a good trio and scare everyone else off with our paranoidism… though I doubt there is such a word…

“Rina… Do we need to prepare or set up anything?” a quiet and soft voice asked and it turned my head towards the voice.

It was eleven-year-old Negil, or rather the leader of the whole group of seven kids. The calmest, coolest, oldest, and definitely the descendant of the oh famous Tyol, minus his physical features of course. For he had brown hair and black eyes, both belonging to cool colors and obviously signaling his collected nature. He was one of those that hardly panics, though he did just now upon hearing the arrival of the peacocks… but I can’t say anything about him, cause I was also trembling and the only two who weren’t freaking out were Rina and Tyol. It was as expected of course. If they freak out we would probably be in the hospital for people with mentality problems.

“Since we’ll most probably be staying here for a while before we have any actual plans, I want you guys to go around that area and settle yourself up the trees. Make sure that you are high enough so that the leaves will cover you. One tree will have around 2 people, mainly you and your partners. Make sure that you try to stay as silent as possible and not make a ruckus. Am I clear?” Rina enquired… I mean demanded as she stated in her ‘I don’t want any nonsense’ tone. Scary…

All the seven kids nodded before moving off to the trees that Rina had pointed at. I hardly heard a sound from their steps as they moved stealthily, avoiding the twigs and branches that would give out an annoying snap. Looks like the trainings are paying off.

Now that the kids are settling themselves down, I mean up on the trees, it was time for some thinking. Tyol should have probably figured out something already, or maybe that was his first thought when Lin gave us the warning. Argh, thinking is just not my style. But I am sure that Rina, Tyol had also came to the same conclusion that I had been thinking for the past few moments. It was the only logical and sensible assumption of this whole surprise attack. Since we all valued loyalty the most, the information could still be gathered through different forms. First would be bribery, second would be torture, and last would be threatening. I don’t know about the mole, but I know that even if they tortured me again, I would never ever reveal any of the locations housing the different groups. Be damn with them and their arrogant attitudes.

Second option of retrieving the necessary information still stands, but I hardly believed the first one cause this was the first time that this had happened. We never betray each other, cause we are not like those that would betray their own people just for their own benefits. That was just plain selfish and stupid and that person would definitely get his retribution. So first form is out, and third form stands. Now, it’s either torture or threatening, and I don’t mind if the person did reveal us to them because of the either two… especially if it was a kid… I did rather them tell the peacocks then get themselves tortured, cause the tortures are just plain sadistic, and filled with excruciating pain… the endless pain that they would inflict upon you while they laugh manically away…

“At? What do you think about this whole matter?” Rina questioned softly in a low whisper so that the kids wouldn’t hear us. Not like we want to exclude them, but they are after all just kids and don’t deserve to share more burdens. We want them to be able to live their childhood as long as possible without worrying about so many things and end up being paranoid like us.

“One and only possible reason that we are discovered, is that someone had betrayed us.” I muttered back, barely moving my lips for fear that someone could lip-read or use a device to understand what we are saying. OK… THAT’S IT… I am being too paranoid… damn that Tyol. And there isn’t anyone here too… argh…

“I came to the same conclusion as you after the warning we got from Lin. Now, we know how we are betrayed, but the question now is… who did it? And why?” Rina asked, more to herself as she seemed to be just projecting her thoughts out loud.

“Ty must have figured something out – he’s always one step ahead of us. And I don’t think we can really figure anything out even if we ponder here and there for we have totally no clue. I think that all we can do now is to wait for the rest to arrive, and then hear everyone’s opinions and thoughts about this for I am sure that the backstabber’s behaviour will show out, be it guilt or satisfaction. But most importantly, we have to wait for Ty to come back… I’ve got the feeling that he’s already somewhere near the answer that we are all waiting to find out.” I stated as a matter-of-factly for it was true. Ty was the witty one, not really smart like a genius but in times like these does he shows out the most. He was also too observant for his own good (maybe it’s because I hate him for always being able to read through me like a book, but…) and he always mysteriously managed to anticipate our next thoughts and movements. I am sure that trying to figure this matter was a part of the reason he wanted to scout around instead of staying with us… though I am very interested to see who he suspected to have betrayed us all. I will never forgive that person, whether it’s a she or he…

“You’re right. We don’t have enough clues to guide us and it wouldn’t do anyone any good if we try to communicate anyone magically now, it will only lead those dogs to us. We will have to wait then and At, go check on the kids and then set up your own little camp too. Make sure to leave a space for Ty cause I predict that he would want to share the same ro…I mean tree as you.” Rina said but recovered smoothly from her slip as she inclined her head towards the direction of the kids, and I have to bite my lips hard to force back the grin that was threatening to surface. No! Bad grin! Go away! I don’t want to be murdered by Rina for laughing at her slip; I did rather face the peacocks, aka dogs as Rina calls or D.O.H the official dumb name for them.

“Ok, I will do just that. I think that five minutes should be enough for me then you can go set up your own camp. You may want to share with one of the kids since there is a odd number of them but it doesn’t really matter. As long as they aren’t alone, it would be fine.” I told Rina before walking off towards the children.

They were all mostly done setting up their camp up there now. Negil was with the timid Vintel while the noisy Elit was with the always-sensible Horane. Elit and Horane together was never a good combination and having them together whispering to each other quickly, with clear amusement and excitement in their eyes… though on closer look it was Elit doing all the talking as Horane had a worried look on his face as usual but still… this wasn’t a very good thing because these signs were the harbinger of trouble. Beria was with her best mate Milaran and also the quiet but hardworking Cam. All were huddled in their different groups under their chosen trees. Must be discussing about the current situation but for a certain pair of duo… I am not sure about their subject of conversation, though I highly doubt it was about the peacocks chasing us. Since I am on strict orders from both Tyol and Rina… I have to abandon my title as ‘Mr. Prankster’ and check those two out… hopefully I wouldn’t catch them red-handed cause I highly support the cause of pranking! But I can’t admit that out loud.

“Hey Rane! How about we… er… let’s see… something original… AH HA! How about we go and tamper with At’s tree? I bet Ty would be sharing with him too and moreover, we can finally succeed our plan in pranking Mr. Prankster! We can finally be proud ourselves Rane! Cause we wouldn’t be below him anymore in pranking and he’ll be too serious about this whole matter to actually notice this! This… IS OUR BEST CHANCE RANE!!! We can’t miss it or I will regret it my whole life!!! Come on Rane! Let’s do it!!!” Elit squealed quietly in excitement as he bounced up and down the whole time, obviously excited that they can finally make sure a they prank me successfully. But too bad Lit, you’re busted cause I just overheard your whole plan… oh you will definitely can a gift from me any time soon Lit… for even daring to suggest something like this.

A devilish smirk plastered my face as I continued watching their conversation while hiding myself in the shadows of the trees. I hid my magical presence too no matter how small it was as Horane was rather sensitive to it. Elit was still trying to persuade Horane to join him in his little quest to prank me, and kept jumping and jumping like a kangaroo, not tired after all that running. However, Horane was always the most sensible one as he kept shaking his head, stating that now was not the time to prank because of the tense atmosphere, and that Tyol had orders that we should not be fooling around. Still, I could see the gears in Elit’s mind working as he thought of a way to play with Tyol’s words… reminds me… I should probably advise Tyol to be more specific the next time because this little imp likes to play around with our words if we weren’t specific enough…

“But Rane! He only said no fooling around. That doesn’t mean no pranking around. Moreover, this is serious matter! And some more, we wouldn’t be making any noises cause we’ll be as quiet as possible and the one making all the noise would probably be At. So we wouldn’t get into any trouble. Come one Rane!! Please???” Elit begged as he clung onto his friend’s arm, his violet-blue eyes flashing a puppy-look. Uh oh… don’t fall for it Horane…

To my dismay, Horan’s hazelnut eyes were tinted with acceptance and kindness as he fell to his little friend’s begging. And Elit upon sporting the look, grin and hugged his friend, jumping up and down again as he thanked Horane. Sigh, kids these days… but I still can’t help but smile at their antics. Friendship is deeply needed in a world like these, and the strongest of bond can even be formed between two very different people, like these two in front. One was of white hair, while the other black; one more mischievous and the other sensible and reasonable… and yet they form a bond, a bond of friendship with each other not because of their similarities, but because they simply care and look out for each other… these two will be the best of friends forever I could sense…

“Ok Lit. I promise that I will join you on your pranks…” Horane started as he gripped Elit’s arms to stop all the jumping, “but not today ok? Maybe some other days but today is a no.” Elit let out a whine and pouted at Horane, face immediately turning sour as he sat down and cross his arms over his chest ignoring Horane. Tantrum of children these days…

I could see Horane bite his lips as he try to think of a way to cheer Elit up. He sat down beside Elit who was still ignoring him and held out his little finger. Now this got Elit’s attention as he turned and looked at Horane curiously.

“How about this. I promise you that I will always join you on your future pranks, but you must promise back that you wouldn’t prank anyone for the next few days until… things got better.” Horane said as he looked at Elit pleadingly. Elit seemed to weigh his options as he still sat there unmoving.

“Promise?” Horane prompted again nervously and could not help but smile as Elit finally brightened up and nodded his head, interlacing his little finger with Horane’s, sealing their promise with the same smile.

“Promise!”

Then, they practically hopped up their trees to probably discuss some other stuffs and I could only stand there staring dumbly after them, as I felt myself basked in warmth. Touching as it is and definitely would always be a part of their limited happy memories. I could only hope that they friendship would pull them through this whole damn thing…cause friendship and care is what is keeping us all alive around here…and speaking of friend…

HOLY!!! I FORGOTTEN ABOUT SETTING UP THE CAMP!!! Rina is so gonna kill me I thought sadly to myself and quickly rushed off to set up with my fastest speed, hopefully not making Rina wait too much. She hates anyone who is not punctual and really hates waiting for anything even for a minute because time is precious…wait for no man…etc. And I still want to live to be able to see the other group and hear Tyol’s explanation… which totally spark my curiosity again, and SHIT!! NO!! ATHEN GANTZ!! CONCENTRATE!!! I scolded myself and climbed the chosen tree easily, settling all the necessary stuffs like putting up some minor wards to ward off insects, animals and also an alarm to alert us of anything strangers. I need to put up some more things but time waits for no man… sadly enough…

Quickly, I fumbled around carelessly while panicking all the way, afraid of a certain blonde that will murder me for being so slow…

2010-01-23T03:54:00.000-08:00

Ok, this is actually the chapter 1 that i edited. i decided to edit the whole story because i was very very unhappy with the last one and i don't like it at all. So, read and review, if you have the patience to read till the end since this is much longer... and there's probably a lot of grammar errors or something... and trust me, this whole plot belongs to me and if there is any resemblance to any other books, movie or whatever or any living human being, i am totally sorry because it is purely a fictional and that resemblance was just a coincidence

Chapter 1 – Discovered

I jerked awake immediately.

I realized that I was panting, hard, and that cold sweat was flowing freely down my cheeks. For a while, I was unable to comprehend what had just happened, and just lied there, staring blankly at the damaged ceiling before me.

After my breathing was back to normal, I recollected what happened just now, shifting uncomfortably in my small and thin mattress. It was the same dream again. That goddamn dream. I don’t even know why I even have these dreams. It was always the same.

Darkness surrounds me except for a single beam of light shining upon myself. Sitting there dumbly, it was mere seconds later before scenes flash before me. I have no idea if it was made-up or a part of my memory, but all I know is that I never once enjoyed it, because it wasn’t joyful at all. Fires would start erupting out of nowhere while screams and shouts filled the air. Then, I would be ‘transported’ into it, enabling me to see clearly what was actually happening. It was clear that it was in a house, two stories but it was all engulfed in flames. A lone figure stood his ground in a corridor, with a four-legged beast beside him. His features were blurred and blackened, like a shadow, but I can see clearly that he was tired, for his frame was trembling slightly while his chest rise up and down rapidly. Half-crouched, he seemed to be ready to spring at the people dressed in battle gears in front of him, the people who had charged in through the opened door. They visibly tense upon seeing the man, but suddenly, an evil laughter would fill the air, making every being in the room freeze. As all turned their heads towards the sound, another man emerged from the crowd, but not alone.

As the soldiers made way for him, the man strolled forward, in his arms a woman who was apparently dead. Her eyes were closed but from how pale her skin look, she was gone from this world. The very same man shouted something and laughter soon filled the whole place. The lone figure was obviously angered, as he clenched his fist and asked something in a calm tone. His question was answered by only laughter again as another man came into view, this time holding a child who could not be more than 7 years of age. The man was holding the poor child up by his hair, but the child did not scream, instead, kicking wildly at the man and trying to free himself. The child must had said something to anger the man because the man gritted his teeth and actually flung the child against the wall. A whimper escaped the child and then he lay limp. Sadistic laughs were heard yet again but they did not notice the waves of fury coming from the lone figure and his partner. Though it was a dream, I could feel the strong magical waves he was emitting, the anger and hatred in it. Hell broke lose as the figure flew into a frenzy, shocking the crowd of soldiers. The scene was very gory and violent. Limbs were torn apart from bodies while pieces of flesh exploded in every direction. The house was decorated with a new colour of red and limbs as the man and beast continued their attacks. The soldiers were either burnt alive or torn apart, the figure obviously showing no mercy at all with his attacks. The soldiers were no match at all for the man as he and his partner lashed out at the enemy. The flames engulfing the house grew even bigger and fiercer as the one-sided fight continued.

Then, I would no longer be in the house; instead, I would be outside, floating in the air. It was then I would witness that the whole house was actually surrounded by more soldiers, more than a hundred as each rushed into the fight to replace their fallen comrades. Waves after waves rushed into the flaming house, seeming to be never ending. Always shivering upon seeing such a violent and bloody fight, I forced myself to see the next scene. A yell would fill the air before the whole house would explode, its intensity affecting the area around it for at least a kilometer. It was like a volcano erupting, but far worse as it was pure waves of magic spreading the magic that wide. The intense light momentarily blinded the whole scene and as sudden as the explosion came, it went away. The soldiers were all cremated into ashes before they even knew what had happen, not even able to scream out in fear. All that was left was a very blackened area, the house no longer there and the soldiers all dead, burnt to death. Even the trees that was nearby was burned to pieces, not even leaving behind a single piece of bark. The lone figure and beast stood there, surveying the scene before them. The child and lady were surprisingly still alive and I knew that the man had shielded them both from the feriocious attack. I thought that the man would now bring the child to safety, however; instead he walked towards the child, ruffling his hair soothingly before the man grabbed his shoulders. In a moment, the child was gone and the man stood up, only to fall back down again as his partner rushed to his side. The scene would then start to fade, leaving to wonder what does all this had to do with me…

“At…? At…?” A soft voice broke my train of thoughts and I immediately recognized it as ten-year-old Vintel.

We found him when he was seven, all alone as he tried to find scraps of food to survive. He did not trust us at first, but slowly, he opened up to us and we found out that his father was executed just because he offended an official, and that his mother and himself were going to be executed too because they were his family. It was cruel and unfair and his mother and him immediately tried to escape, with his mother dying on the attempt to save Vintel from an attack. That memory always hunt him as the enemy blew a hole up in his mother stomach, something a kid shouldn’t have to see at all. All the blood… the sheer terror would even make an untrained adult shiver in fear. He was lucky to escape because if not, another innocent life would be taken by those scoundrels again.

“What’s wrong Vin? Did you have a nightmare again?” I asked softly as the small figure emerged from the dark slowly to stand at my side.

He nodded his head slowly and I could see that he was trying to hold back his tears that were threatening to fall. I sat up and patted the empty space on my side, gesturing for him to sit. As he came to sit I noted that it was still dark, meaning that morning has not yet come. Pressing a button on my wristband, it showed 3am in the morning. What a time to wake up.

“Are you the only one awake?” I asked again and Vintel nodded his head, and I confirmed my answer as I heard light snoring from the rest of the occupants in the room.

“Want to tell me about it?” I inquired softly as I started to rub his back soothingly in small circles, hoping to ease his pain and fear.

“…Can I just sleep beside you?” he questioned in a timid voice. Who am I to refuse him?

Nodding my head, he seemed to literally beam as he settled himself quickly onto my mattress. Snuggling himself deep into my blankets while I continued to rub his back, I could see that he was slowly being lulled into sleep. His eyelids were only half opened now as his breathing became more even. However, he was still fighting the sleep that was trying to overwhelm him. It must be the nightmares that he always had, the one whereby his parents were forcefully taken away from him when he was only eight…

“…At? Can you sing me the song moonlight?” he asked wearily in his half-trance like state and I was more than happy to comply, anything to let him go back to sleep again because he will definitely need it.

Smiling, I opened my mouth to start the lullaby that I would always sing to the kids for them to fall asleep. For some reasons, it always seemed to work.

Moonlight ~ Oh moonlight~

Where are you today?~

For when the Sun comes~
You just go away~

Moonlight ~ Oh moonlight~
I miss you so much ~

I have to wait for night to fall~

Before you come to me~

Moonlight ~Moonlight ~
I miss your presence~

Though the Sun keeps us warm~

You keep us calm~

Your light always seemed soothing~

And calms every soul you shine upon~

Being one of those lucky souls~

I love you so much~

Moonlight ~ Oh Moonlight~

Where are you today?

Hopefully I can see you~

When the night comes again~

With that, I ended the song and took a long breath before taking a look at Vintel. As expected, he was already asleep, with an innocent and naïve look on his face, like any other child. Satisfied with my success, I smiled to myself and patted his head softly. After a minute, I stood up quietly and made my way outside, all the while avoided tripping over anything or anyone. Reaching the doorway, I observed my surroundings. It was really quiet and peaceful, like any other night. Sighing contently, I started to walk down the hallway, knowing that I would not be able to catch any sleep any time soon.

This place we were living at is in a small country, along the borders separating Rayli and Poncal, and that was why definitely a safe place for us to hide. When it was this close to the borders, both of the two biggest nations would not be bothered to send their soldiers to such a place to be bothered with the likes of us. All the transportation and manpower they need for them to get here was just a waste of time and money I should say. And of course, I am obviously elated that they would not bother with us, which would save us all of the troubles of trying to escape their claws. I know that the government of Poncal would not be bothered with us, for they have better things to do, but I definitely can confirm the fact that our biggest enemy, Rayli, or rather their soldiers, called D.O.H. They were obviously some blithe idiots, who all think that we should be destroyed and then will the world be peaceful and clean. Hooray. And also, I don’t know what the letters mean but who cares? All I need to know is that I totally resent them not only because of the fact that they would hunt every single one of us down, but also deemed us to be inferior compared to them.

Why are we inferior? One would ask. And all I could say is that all of them are just some stupid proud peacocks. Just because they are pure and powerful doesn’t give them the rights to come and kill us off. ‘Dirt of the society’ they called us, while I would call them ‘peacocks that don’t know how to rule a country’, which is totally true. I mean, which sane country would try to eliminate every single being, whether you are human or not, just because your blood was not pure and your powers not up to standard? Why does blood purity even matters?

“Nightmares again At?” a deep voice asked and I immediately recognized it as our leader Tyol.

Turning my head to the left, I saw Tyol down the hallway by a few meters, walking towards me with slow and steady steps. His orange hair was of darker shade in the night while his sword glittered beautifully under the moonlight. Tyol had the air of calmness and coolness about him, which immediately soothed my angry thoughts just now.

“So it’s your turn to patrol tonight?” I asked casually, trying to change the subject of the conversation since I was still unwillingly to talk to anyone about it, though Tyol roughly knows what was always keeping me up during the nights.

“Yes. Now answer the question.” He stated simply as he came to a stop beside me, raising an eyebrow as he demanded for an answer.

I looked at him for a while before nodding my head. Tyol frowned upon my answer and was probably going to give me the talk of how unhealthy it was but I stopped him quickly and efficiently.

“Ty…I don’t want to be rude or anything…but… I don’t want to talk about it…not now…”I mumbled and looked away from his light grey eyes, opting to stare at the half moon instead.

“Ok…I am not going to force you to talk or anything…”Tyol started and I mentally heaved a sigh of relief, “but if you do want to talk about it, I am available anytime.”

“Thanks Ty…” I muttered and stared at the sky again, letting the silence hang awkwardly in the air as I continued from my train of thoughts just now.

“So, what are you thinking about right now? D.O.H?” He inquired as he moved to stare at the sky too, all the while sneaking glances at me to see if I was willing to talk after such a touchy subject.

“Ya, those bastards. Even though they are following the orders of Rayli, I still hate them cause they are destroying everyone’s life, even children like Vin…” I hissed in fury as I clenched my fists hard.

Noticing my movement, Tyol placed an comforting hand on my arm, shooting me a look to calm down.

“Who doesn’t hate them?” Tyol said as he sighed, before continuing, “All of us do, because our families were ripped apart because of them. But, this isn’t the end is it? We still have each other and with that, we’ll pull through this till we find a place that would actually accept us. For now, we have to lay low cause the peacocks are on sugar high to capture every single one of us.” He grinned at the end and I couldn’t help but grin back. Sarcastic, but I like it.

“Hmm…you’re right. Thanks Ty.” I thanked Ty as he managed to calm me down like always, since I was often angered by how they tried to rule us; condemn us as though we are worse than dogs.

“No prob little At.” And I could sense the cheekiness in his voice

“Hey! I’m not little!!!!” I managed a half-scream at him since I did not want to wake the whole building up.

“As much as I like to say that too…you are only fourteen and you don’t even reach my shoulders…” Tyol started and moved to stand beside me, clearly trying to indicate that I indeed do no reach his shoulders at all. I glared at him in mock anger before grinning at him and giving him a slap on his back. A hard slap actually…

“OW!!!” Tyol screamed a little too loudly and his hand flew to his mouth quickly but obviously too late to cover his scream.

Staring at him, I raised an eyebrow and gave him a ‘does it hurt that much’ look.

“Of course it hurts you brat. How about I try that on you too?” he hissed angrily, but I could see that he was joking as he was trying very hard to put on an offended look, which he failed at it miserably.

Choosing to act nonchalant about the whole matter, I shrugged and started to walk away, planning to accompany Tyol on his patrol. I could practically feel Tyol give me an incredulous look before catching up with me. Determined to get his revenge, he slapped him back on the head and I almost fall face first on the ground if I haven’t caught myself. Glaring at him again, I met his eye and he chuckled softly. I could see the amusement in his eyes. However, he must have predicted that I would retaliate because he walked away in long strides before I could do anything. Cursing under my breath, I increased my pace and was almost beside him when he quickened his steps again, leaving me behind. Almost able to hear him whistling to himself happily, I walked even faster, forcing myself to not break out in a run. As I was going to catch up for the second time, Tyol went even faster and left me in the dust again. ARGH!!!! From this day onwards, I declare war on those who can walk so fast.

Just when I was going to start running, a sudden idea formed in my head as I stared at Tyol’s back. Oh this is indeed a wonderful plan…

Grinning mischievously, I soften the sound of my footsteps and proceeded to catch him off guard. Moving faster and softer with each step, I was a few steps behind the unknowing Tyol and then at the right moment, I pounced on him. I earn myself an indignant yelp as both of us tumbled to the ground. Having the advantage of being on top of him, I started to tickle him mercilessly and he lost the strength to throw me off. Our laughter filled the air, as we were engrossed in our own little game and we failed to notice the devil herself that was approaching us…

“Mr Yiho and Mr Gantz… May I asked why the both of you are on the ground when one is supposed to be in bed and the other on a patrol?” an emotionless voice was heard and we froze immediately, knowing full well who was speaking.

Ominous silence hung in the air and Tyol was the brave one to break it first. Pushing me off himself gently, he stood up and also pulled me to my feet quickly. Planting on his best smile that I always labeled as ‘the smile to get away from trouble’, he looked at the person who had made our blood freeze to the core just now.

“Well…about that… At and I was just actually…” Tyol hesitated as he tried to think of a reason and the brilliant me supplied it immediately.

“I…er… I saw a bug crawled into Ty’s shirt and I was just trying to help him get the bug out.” I managed to lie in a calm tone and secretly nudged Tyol, who got the signal and nodded his head in agreement.

“Ya! At was just being a kind soul and helping me.” Tyol added and let out a nervous chuckle, hoping to ease the suspicion of said person in front of him

Said person was none other than Rina, or rather, Tyol’s ‘secretary’. Her blonde hair and gold eyes only makes her more scary and intimidating. She is the one who always made sure that everyone is following the rules, schedules, and takes care of a lot of work together with Tyol. But having a serious AND perfectionist secretary was obviously not a good combination at all. When Tyol is…goofing off like she always said, she would somehow be there to drag him back to do the necessary work, and start to lecture him on what would happen if he doesn’t do this etc… I think I kind of memorise it now when I have heard it for don’t know how many times.

“Then where is the bug, may I asked?” Rina stated the blunt obvious and gave one of her hard looks at us and my sixth sense tells me that we are busted.

“Ahaha…Hey! You know what? I feel tired all of a sudden! So… bye! I’m going to sleep right now. And er… Ty! Er… good luck on your patrol!” I stammered all the way and gave Tyol a pat on the shoulder. Then with my speed, I moved back to my rooms hastily because I do indeed feel tired.

Tyol’s point of view

The kid ran off before I could even shout ‘D.O.H is here!’, but it’s not like I can do that anyway because I most probably wouldn’t live to see the next day especially with Rina here in front of me. With a dramatic sigh, I faced the devil herself. I knew from the start that we were busted, but it was still worth a try. Never give up till you tried right?

“Ty, stop slacking and start working! You’re the leader here for goodness sake! How can you set such a bad example? And you know that our dear Mr. prankster is already very creative, so stop giving him any ideas! And for the last time, don’t take the patrols for grunted! We can’t afford anyone infiltrating here or we would have to find another place, which is very difficult and very time-consuming. We wouldn’t have enough food or water or manpower to do so and you know it yourself! Once is already enough, I won’t want the same mistake to be made. Also, report the previous events to other areas because we need to keep each other updated. And the training that is scheduled tomorrow, or rather today since it’s 4am, you still haven’t plan out the timeline yet! How are we supposed to teach the children then? And…” Rina rattled on and rattled and I could feel a vein in my brain bust, or was it supposed to be an artery?

“Rina…” I started as I tried to stop her from babbling on because if she did I am sure that a headache is going to start.

“Don’t ‘Rina’ me! You aren’t going to get away from this until you hear finish what I have said. Do you know how much work is waiting for you to be done? And here you are…” it’s going to start all over again, just that she is going to use a different way to scold me. Dear god, she’s such a wonderful secretary. And dear me, please notice the blunt sarcasm I am using here.

“Rina…I know I know! I know what I am supposed to do and for goodness sake, I am an adult. Wait, I know that you are just trying to help me but I’ll finish all these work after I patrol finish ok?” I assured her and was glad that she finally stopped and raised an eyebrow. Seriously, they must have picked up the habit from At because that kid just loves to do that.

“Yes…I promise…” I stated but Rina still gave me a blank look and with a sigh, I added, “I totally swear that I would finish ALL the work that is given to me or I am not going to sleep at all. Satisfied?”

Nodding her head in approval, she gave me a warm smile and I flashed one back at her. So much work, and only one me… wait… who voted me to be leader again?

‘That At… he’s like our beam of light isn’t he? And I am sure that his presence is getting onto you too. You weren’t that… friendly before we found him.” Rina said and I glared at her, but soften up at the memories of At. At is a great kid. Though he is not the most powerful person on Antel, he is definitely the brightest beam of light I ever saw. I have to admit what Rina said just now – before we found him, I was the more serious type, always focusing on the tedious work and burden set upon me and I was often frustrated by it. At that time, I knew that I had to bear the responsibility of assuring all the other kids safety because Arcane left the whole group in my care. I was desperate at first, not really all that confident about my abilities though people like Rina were here to help me. Since I was tired out by it often, I was found to be in a bad mood almost every day from the lack of sleep. Once, I even wanted to just go somewhere where I did not have to worry about this and live a normal live, because I was totally sick and tired of it. Why me? Why not someone else? And soon, I was becoming harsher and colder to everyone around me… Urgh, I don’t even want to think about it. Well, that was until little At came along. He was shy and very close-mouthed at first, but slowly opened up and quickly made many friends. He even managed to worm his way into my heart at that time, reminding me why I was doing this in the first place – to protect all of these kids. And boy was I glad that the haze in my exhausted mind was clear, and my desire was clearly seen. I soon realized that I firstly needed to change my attitude and what I could clearly see what heart desire, I set out to change myself to a better leader. Have to thank little At for that. But I don’t think that he even knows it… he must have done it subconsciously then…

“Yep, great kid.” I answered.

We both smiled knowingly at each other and I proceeded back to on my damn patrol on the look out for the proud and stupid peacocks, while Rina went to take care some of the admin work. Boy oh boy, what a wonderful day today. And my back is aching already, must be that brat’s fault…I am going to get him for this.

Athen’s point of view

“At…! At…! Earth to At!!!!” someone practically shouted in my ears but I chose to ignore it and flipped myself to the other side, to get myself further away from that damn person. I needed SLEEP. My beauty sleep and don’t think that by just having one earth calling to me will make a goddamn difference.

“Little At… don’t make me call you a second time cause you won’t like it.” The person warns and I have a rough idea that it was Tyol. He is the only one around that ever calls me little. Still, like I am gonna bother with him. SLEEP is more important than waking up and I hate mornings so from today onwards, there shall be no more mornings, only afternoons.

“Don’t make me do this At…” do what? Why don’t you try it and I will think about waking up huh?

“You asked for it, so don’t blame me, since it is your shift today to cook breakfast…” I still don’t care and I doubt that you can make me wak… ARGH!!! WHAT THE HELL?!

A sudden freezing sensation was felt around my neck, too cold and prickling for my liking. It was as though little needles were pocking at my neck and…it was so cold!!! I can’t feel my neck anymore!! My eyes flash open and stared at the guy that had frozen my neck, and said person also fully knew well that I hated cold, especially in the morning.

“I did warn you so don’t glare at me like that.” He drawled casually and released his magic on me when he saw how awake I was. He was grinning like a maniac though… he’s hiding something and is also happy that he managed to use his magic on me…must be revenge.

“I did nothing to you right? So why are you so joyful about it?” I snapped back at him. Argh, I hate mornings.

“Hmmm? Joyful? Which part me seems joyful to you?” every part you idiot.

I gave him a ‘are you serious’ look and stared intensely at his grey eyes, sensing the amusement and glee in it. Still, he never backed down from my stare and I grumbled in annoyance. Brushing my fingers through my black hair to set it straight, I ignored Tyol’s presence and moved towards the doorway to go to the kitchen and prepare breakfast. When I realized that I was last one to wake, I quickened my steps immediately. Pressing the same button, I checked that the time was 7.30am. Too early…but definitely late for the breakfast.

“At? Oh come on At. Don’t be so petty! I was just joking around!” Tyol exclaimed as he caught up beside me easily.

I gave him a contemplative look before quoting a sentence from Rina, and also imitate her voice. “Leaders…don’t joke around.”

“Very funny At. For your info, I finished all my work so Rina wouldn’t or rather, can’t do anything to me.” Tyol informed calmly. Damn, I thought that he would have missed something and then I will get my revenge. Che, this ain’t fun at all. Why does Tyol have to be so observant? I hate him.

“You can’t blame me for being a astute person little At, after all, leaders can’t joke around can they?” Tyol suggested in a bored tone as he quoted back my words… now I can’t use those words again.

Just when I was about to snapped back at him, something latch around my leg and I would have kicked it if I had not seen that mop of white and grayish hair.

“At!! I’m hungry~” the voice whine and as he refused to detach himself from my poor legs. Seriously…I don’t even know why I didn’t just act on my instinct in the first place.

“Lit…I can’t make your hunger go away if you don’t get off me.” I stated and start to pry Elit’s arms off me. For an eleven year old, he’s kind of strong. He’s stopping my leg’s circulation.

“Fine. But I want my food in ten minutes.” He demanded as he stalked back to his chair and plopped down, staring intensely at the table in front of him as though said food would just pop out.

“Sure, my fault for being late. Bread, ham and Xay is fine right?” I asked while moving towards the fridge to get the said items out and cook up breakfast. I am just asking for the sake of asking and it’s not like we have lots of choices in the first place anyway.

“Yep!” a whole lot of voices agreed in unison before breaking off into chatters again, but some napping on the table. People like Milaran,Vintel, and surprisingly Negil too with a dazed look on their faces. They aren’t morning persons either then.

After counting that there are seven kids waiting for breakfast, and three more who are joining later, I would need eleven sets of breakfast, including myself. First, I took out about two Xays, a kind of fruit that is like an apple but more oval in shape and has a sweet and sour taste in it. Cutting it into equal small pieces, I placed it on the seven plates and then moved on to cooking the ham. Since we only got 2 pans, I just have to make do with it. I dripped some oil onto the pans and then placed one piece on each pan and drawing out my magic, starting to cook the hams. Making sure that my fire was concentrated at the bottom of the pan, just directly under the area of the ham, I increase the heat till I could hear some sizzling. I stuck with the same temperature and staring cooking, whistling all the way while doing some stunts to show off. Yes, show off, cause I know that kids like to go ‘wow!’ when you just flip the ham single-handedly. Ha, they just don’t know what is practice makes perfect.

After ten minutes of quick cooking, with big thanks to my fire magic, I double-checked that the hams were thoroughly cook so that Rina would not come and murder me. Satisfied, I took out the bread from the cupboard and placed it on each plate. Before I could even announced that it was done, the plates were either snatched away by hands, got levitated to the table by magic, or simply teleported to the table. Seriously, can’t they use their own limbs for once? They all mumbled a quick thanks before tucking in, gobbling down their food like they haven’t eaten for days. I mean, I know that we aren’t very well fed but it’s not like Tyol is starving them right?

Paying no attention to their behavior for my stomach was not really ready for any food; I walked over to the other side of the kitchen and filled a cup with water. Taking my half-filled water, I went to an empty seat and plopped myself down onto the chair, still managing to take notice how the kids had finished three-quarters of their meals in less than 2 minutes. One day, I need to teach them table manners…

Sighing, I looked around the small but comforting kitchen. The place I was sitting at is in the middle of the kitchen, with a rectangular brown table and about ten chairs surrounding it. Behind me was just some more cupboards built in counters (mostly empty though) and a sink. The white fridge was at the opposite corner, though not really white in colour… and beside it is a counter about 3.5meters long and has our supplies in its cupboards. The counter was just simply a mixture of brown and a darker kind of brown… which reminds me… almost all is made of wood. Oh ya and that stove…

“Ya, we should get rid of the stove right Athen? It’s just taking up the space since you don’t even use it.” A familiar voice sounded from the doorway and upon turning my head, realized that it was the forgotten Tyol. Err…ops?

“It’s not like we have that many things to put.” I commented and continue sipping my water. Damn, I am so going to buy some coffee powder… and steal it if I have to.

“Your right, we don’t have that much things anyway. And if I threw it away, I will end up freezing everyone’s meals!” Tyol laugh and moved to get water, not noticing how the kids held their plates closer to themselves after hearing his sentence.

I was about to tease about Tyol’s ice magic when a sudden beeping sound filled the room, a sound that I always hated since it was used for emergency situations, which always spells disaster.

“Shit.” I cursed and quickly pressed a button labeled with and ‘R’ on my wristband. Tyol grumbled a while as his expressions turned serious before he too, pressed the same button on his own wristband. Please not let what I think is happening to happen… I had enough of the damn peacocks already! Why can’t they just leave us in peace?

“Emergency! Section 1 had been discovered by the peacocks and is moving on quickly to Section 2. Group 2 and 3, please prepare for double ‘e’ double ‘two’! Group 4 and 5, please prepare for double ‘e’ double ‘five’! E.T.A of animals to section 2 at 10mins! Please carry on ASAP! Any further arrangements would be communicated through ‘mpwb’ by T.Y. Lin would meet up with any of the groups later. Out.” Lincoln’s voice was heard as he desperately tried to keep calm and state what we should do and not revealing anything much to the enemies if our systems were ever hacked. I could hear how hard he was panting and also faint screaming and yelling in the background. Shit… this is bad. 10 minutes? Oh great, JUST GREAT! DAMN IT!!! What are we supposed to do now? And how the hell did they know where we were? ARGH!!!

“Received. E.T.A to double ‘two’ at 7 mins. Out.” Tyol answered back calmly as his face turned deadly serious.

Tyol’s point of view

The only possible reason? There is a mole in us who is giving out the information. I’d loved to whack that person myself but no, now is not the time. At is already panicking by that deep frown on his face. I know how much he hates them because I do so myself and the disastrous situation isn’t helping either. Lin is always right when he estimates things like this and if it is 10mins, it only meant that the peacocks had already taken care of Section 1 and is now halfway to reaching here, which is Section 2. Lin must also be using the other way to reach section 22 or spying on them. But I know that he will keep himself safe. So now, we must quickly pack and escape, without leaving any trail behind. We need to start moving now, and if I don’t stay calm too, all will start to panic, especially the kids… they are trembling already, and the usual collected and quiet and composed Negil was of no exception either.

“At. Grab all the stuff you can while Rina and me will take care of the rest. You have 2 minutes so hastened up and meet us outside when you are done.” I instructed Athen, hopefully he will calm down enough, or I will knock some sense into him because we simply don’t have time to panic.

At first, he froze for a while, before he closed his eyes, took a deep breath and nodded his head, eyes focused and filled with determination. He isn’t shaking anymore from the announcement of the situation. Good, now I can leave the place here to him while I go take care of the rest. Giving him a reassuring nod, I sprinted towards the core area of this place to deactivate everything and wiped away our presence of ever staying here. We don’t have much time but if everyone follows the usual drill, we will be fine.

I am sure of it cause there is no way I am going to let those peacocks take away any of the kids again, not while I am here.

Athen’s point of view

I watched Tyol sprint out of the door at full speed. I would have probably sit there and froze too like the other kids, but I can’t, cause Tyol needs me and the kids also need someone to guide them out of this mess. Bad memories are flashing through me, showing me my incompetence in the past because of my carelessness and stupidity. I did not want that to happen again…no I must not let that happen.

“Ok guys, you heard the man. Now, remember our drills? I am going to clear the food and you guys go and filled up your bottles full to its max. But all of you wouldn’t be able to do so, so just try to fill up as many as possible and we’ll distribute them later. Then, when you are finished, help each other out and make sure that your emergency bags are with you, along with the supplies. Ok move now! Chop chop!” I encouraged in a pretty strained calm voice as the children look at me for a while before dashing off to the tap, each taking out their bottles to fill up. As for me, I hastened towards the cupboard and summoned my bag from my wristband. I placed three-quarters of what we had into the bag, and stuffed the rest into the one of many bags around my belt. All of us had this bag belt, or double ‘b’ as we called it because in case of situations like these, we will always be prepared.

My heart was pounding hard against my chest, and it took me my full will not to tremble and drop the food. I can’t help it. Flashes of my past just keep flashing before me, mocking me and berating me for my idiotic actions… because of my mistake, it cost a person her life and endangered the rest…

“At? We are done with all the preparations…” A girl of eleven years of age, named Beria, asked in a small voice as she shook me slightly to get my attention.

Turning around, I see all the kids’ eyes on me, waiting for me to tell them what to do next. They were all scared too. Fear was written clearly on their faces and they were almost on the verge of breaking down and crying. They had also witness the cruelty of the world, and knew that that had to fight for their own rights, their freedom even if they were only children. They need me now, and I must not fail them.

With a newfound determination, I nodded my head and smiled at them encouragingly, glad that some of them had relaxed their tensed shoulders and were in the process of calming down.

“Good, now, follow me closely. Also make sure that your partners are with you at all times, if not, report to me immediately. Understood?” I enquired gently but firmly to let them know that this was serious matter, not the time to joke around.

They all nodded their heads and moved to each of their individual partners. After I scanned them and did a headcount, I quickly moved out to meet with Tyol and Rina, knowing that they would also be finish with their jobs. The damn peacocks are close; I could almost feel their annoying but ominous presence. I could also practically imagine them stomping this place at anytime as I moved swiftly towards the back of the house. The screaming, wailings, and the laughter of them subduing their victims were just purely disgusting… inhumane freaks…

“At? You’re done packing the supplies right?” Tyol asked as he emerged from the corner together with Rina, both panting as they hastily moved to stand beside us.

I nodded my head, giving them the reply they want since I did not trust my voice to not break under this tense atmosphere… and the memories that keep flashing was not making things any better either… Shit, I am scared…

I was barely able to control myself from flinching away from the hand that had placed itself upon my slightly trembling shoulders. It was Tyol and he knew that I was scared. His eyes tried to calm me and he gave my shoulder a firm squeeze, as though telling me that what happened in the past was not my fault, and that I should not dwell on it because it would only hider my present. I don’t know how he managed to always guess what I am thinking… but I thank him for trying to comfort me… cause I definitely need it now seeing the nervous state I am in. I would have probably break down if I was just like any other normal kid… but seeing that I ain’t that normal… oh well.

Tyol’s point of view

I bet me and Rina would have won any sprinting race with the speed we were going at just now… and if it was not for Rina being a speed user… I don’t think I can make it and she’s fast as usual. But seriously, if I haven’t force myself to run at that kind of speed every single day… I think I would be dead by now. I mean, first running to the core of the house an shutting it off, then to the rooms to clear our other belongings, which means destroy it or bring it along, then running around the practice area to clear off any magical presence and then run around the whole house and make sure that we didn’t raise any alarms… all in two minutes… I can practically feel the muscle ache I am going to have the next day… oh joy.

And I am kind of worried about little At… it must be because the past accident that is haunting him, and that person’s death… I pity for him but now is not the time and At hates anyone who sympathizes him… and I could sense the approach of a large magical presence that was cleverly hidden. They cover their magical powers by blending in with the surroundings, like camouflaging and only a expert in this area would be able to sense them. But I am only a novice in it and if Lin haven’t told be I wouldn’t even notice their approach. They are getting even closer again and if we don’t get out of here now, it will be the end of group 2.

“Ok, I am going to lead us to area 22, all of your follow closely and don’t leave any trail behind, including your magical trail. No sound and fast pace. Let’s move.” I commanded calmly and doing a check over the whole area again, I dashed of into the forest nearby, hearing several quiet footsteps following closely behind me. Tired as I am, I have to lead them to safety and with Rina as the rearguard, we won’t be leaving any traces behind and those damn peacocks wouldn’t be able to sense us at all, even with their hounds.

Leading the whole group on a familiar trail (to us it is but for the peacocks…), we did not exchange any words because of the tense atmosphere. I know that Rina is anxious, but not at all afraid while the rest, including At, was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Understandable, cause I have been through all of this before and at that time, I was twelve, but these kids at the oldest eleven and little At was fourteen only… they are not even adults… and I have to admire their bravery for being able to stay calm and composed, especially At, cause after such a terrible experience would leave any teenagers sobbing.

We were hardly making any sounds and we were further and further away from the magical presence, lightening the burden that I felt on my shoulders a minute ago. I am not afraid of them, but I don’t want them near the kids, ad I definitely wouldn’t let them make any one of us suffer the cruelty and humiliation of slavery.

Also, I am desperate to know what had happened to Section1, the first place that was being attack. I am sure that Rina had the same thing on her mind too, cause they would have been caught by surprise, and if Lin weren’t visiting them to attend to the mechanical matters there… we would have been sitting ducks at the house, waiting for them to charge in and take us. There would only be 3 fighters, Rina, At and me since the kids wouldn’t be a match against the adults, physically and magically. The number of experienced fighters had to be spread out thin ever since Arcane they all left, cause each group would need someone to guide them and we can’t stay in a big group for fear of getting caught. Small and conspicuous was the best, while we also make sure that our communication system was well-balanced, as well as our defense too as we would always have lessons to teach the kids fighting skills, though we did not want them to learn at all. But to survive, they have to harbor these skills of they would just die. It was eat or be eaten, or just simply be smart enough to run and escape, was what I always tell them

I have my suspicions about this whole matter, and also pray that there will be no casualties at the Section 1. Zackery is in charge. He is capable and strong but being on the receiving end of the surprised attack will do no army good and I could only hope they managed to escape from the peacocks. I could only suspect that someone had betrayed us, who I don’t know cause I know that we were all very loyal to one another. Having suffered the same fate and having the same enemy, who would betray us unless the peacocks have came into contact with the mole and either threaten that person, or bribe him. If it was the latter, I would personally rip that person to pieces myself, for loyalty is very much valued in our codes as it is what that had kept us together.

About three minutes have passed. We heard no one following us and we all relax a little and the heavy atmosphere lighten by a tiny bit, not much because we were still not sure if they would ambush us from somewhere. And they may also be silently following us and trailing us so that we could lead them to the big group… maybe I am the only one being paranoid, by apparently, being paranoid is good for health here.

After sensing around for any presence, I heaved a sigh of relief to know that no stranger was to be found. There were only the animals residing in this forest and have all scampered away upon sensing our arrival. Which reminds me… they can’t like threaten animals to tell them where we are can they? I am so going to have that checked out and confirmed…

There was a sudden clearing in front and I could hear the faint sound of a rushing river, which signals that we were closed to area 22. Area 22 is near a river source and has several other food sources around as well so we could probably camp there for some time before we find any place to live. The place weren’t big enough for tents, but that’s the whole purpose cause we will be sleeping on trees instead, so that the enemies would have less chance of finding us when we are in such a big group. And when we reach there I would need time to figure this whole thing out since there is something fishy going on…

Luckily for me, we soon reached the designated area and were all panting hard since we were sprinting all the way, about more than 500 meters I should say. Man, we should all participate in some sprinting event and we would all be champions. Wouldn’t that be good for a change?

“Ok guys, we’re here and looks like we are the first. We’ll have to wait for the others to arrive before we do anything else. You all can drink from the river and have a snack too to catch your breaths. I would scout around the area and see if I can meet up with group 3. You guys have to stay here and remain silent and hidden. No sound, no activities other than drinking and eating. No wondering around and no fires. Listen to Rina while I am gone. Am I clear on this?” I asked as I listed out all the things. We can’t have them discovered another secret location or we’ll all be doomed.

They stared at me for a while before nodding their heads and moving on to their drinks and food. At on the other hand, raise an eyebrow at me in amusement. He smirked at me and then started going around to monitor the kids, making sure that they didn’t eat up all their supplies and that no one suffered any injuries. Man that kid, I would have had him in a headlock for mocking at my sudden display of leadership if not for this situation, though he will also make a good leader too. Trust him to be able to joke in times like this. But it also means that he was putting down the past and concentrating on the present instead. Good for him, and with both Rina and him around, I would be able to scout around without worrying about them getting into trouble… but I can’t say for sure about At… after all he is not dubbed as ‘Mr. Prankster’ by Rina for no reason.

I looked towards Rina, who seemed to be neither panting nor tired from this whole run. Upon seeing my stare, her lips tugged upwards in a small smile and nodded her head, assuring me that it was safe for me to go check things out. I flashed back a small smile and walked towards the direction of Section 3, moving silently and avoiding any bushes, twigs or branches. I also continuously checked the magical presence around the whole area 22 and triple checked that no stranger was lurking nearby to try and ambush us. Section 3 were the third closest to area 22, they should be arriving soon. Blite was in charge of group 3 and I could only hope and pray that they were all safe… and that no one was injured nor captured.

But now that I have some peace and quiet, it’s time to figure some things out…hmm…

Athen’s point of view

I almost wanted to tease Tyol about his sudden aura of a leader, but I have to restrain myself. Though having Tyol around to guide us is a good thing as we are all following our trainings and drills, and so far have not messed up anything yet. His calming yet firm presence is having an impact on all of us, as though there was a warm blanket covering us to soothe us of our fears. Well whatever, as long as we are calm, the peacocks will never find us.

Fishing out two bottles of drinks from my bags in the belt, I settled down beside Rina and gave her one of it. She took it and muttered a ‘thanks’, and sipped the water slowly, all the while scanning the area over and over again to check for any signs of the enemy. Following her movements, I sipped slowly too since it isn’t good to gulped down one big chunk, and instead of scanning the surroundings, I scanned the kids instead and always did a mental headcount every single minute. I kept checking that everyone was present, no one was hurt, no one was fooling around and that all the supplies were still intact. Great, Tyol and Rina’s paranoid nature is rubbing on me, now we would make a good trio and scare everyone else off with our paranoidism… though I doubt there is such a word…

“Rina… Do we need to prepare or set up anything?” a quiet and soft voice asked and it turned my head towards the voice.

It was eleven-year-old Negil, or rather the leader of the whole group of seven kids. The calmest, coolest, oldest, and definitely the descendant of the oh famous Tyol, minus his physical features of course. For he had brown hair and black eyes, both belonging to cool colors and obviously signaling his collected nature. He was one of those that hardly panics, though he did just now upon hearing the arrival of the peacocks… but I can’t say anything about him, cause I was also trembling and the only two who weren’t freaking out were Rina and Tyol. It was as expected of course. If they freak out we would probably be in the hospital for people with mentality problems.

“Since we’ll most probably be staying here for a while before we have any actual plans, I want you guys to go around that area and settle yourself up the trees. Make sure that you are high enough so that the leaves will cover you. One tree will have around 2 people, mainly you and your partners. Make sure that you try to stay as silent as possible and not make a ruckus. Am I clear?” Rina enquired… I mean demanded as she stated in her ‘I don’t want any nonsense’ tone. Scary…

All the seven kids nodded before moving off to the trees that Rina had pointed at. I hardly heard a sound from their steps as they moved stealthily, avoiding the twigs and branches that would give out an annoying snap. Looks like the trainings are paying off.

Now that the kids are settling themselves down, I mean up on the trees, it was time for some thinking. Tyol should have probably figured out something already, or maybe that was his first thought when Lin gave us the warning. Argh, thinking is just not my style. But I am sure that Rina, Tyol had also came to the same conclusion that I had been thinking for the past few moments. It was the only logical and sensible assumption of this whole surprise attack. Since we all valued loyalty the most, the information could still be gathered through different forms. First would be bribery, second would be torture, and last would be threatening. I don’t know about the mole, but I know that even if they tortured me again, I would never ever reveal any of the locations housing the different groups. Be damn with them and their arrogant attitudes.

Second option of retrieving the necessary information still stands, but I hardly believed the first one cause this was the first time that this had happened. We never betray each other, cause we are not like those that would betray their own people just for their own benefits. That was just plain selfish and stupid and that person would definitely get his retribution. So first form is out, and third form stands. Now, it’s either torture or threatening, and I don’t mind if the person did reveal us to them because of the either two… especially if it was a kid… I did rather them tell the peacocks then get themselves tortured, cause the tortures are just plain sadistic, and filled with excruciating pain… the endless pain that they would inflict upon you while they laugh manically away…

“At? What do you think about this whole matter?” Rina questioned softly in a low whisper so that the kids wouldn’t hear us. Not like we want to exclude them, but they are after all just kids and don’t deserve to share more burdens. We want them to be able to live their childhood as long as possible without worrying about so many things and end up being paranoid like us.

“One and only possible reason that we are discovered, is that someone had betrayed us.” I muttered back, barely moving my lips for fear that someone could lip-read or use a device to understand what we are saying. OK… THAT’S IT… I am being too paranoid… damn that Tyol. And there isn’t anyone here too… argh…

“I came to the same conclusion as you after the warning we got from Lin. Now, we know how we are betrayed, but the question now is… who did it? And why?” Rina asked, more to herself as she seemed to be just projecting her thoughts out loud.

“Ty must have figured something out – he’s always one step ahead of us. And I don’t think we can really figure anything out even if we ponder here and there for we have totally no clue. I think that all we can do now is to wait for the rest to arrive, and then hear everyone’s opinions and thoughts about this for I am sure that the backstabber’s behaviour will show out, be it guilt or satisfaction. But most importantly, we have to wait for Ty to come back… I’ve got the feeling that he’s already somewhere near the answer that we are all waiting to find out.” I stated as a matter-of-factly for it was true. Ty was the witty one, not really smart like a genius but in times like these does he shows out the most. He was also too observant for his own good (maybe it’s because I hate him for always being able to read through me like a book, but…) and he always mysteriously managed to anticipate our next thoughts and movements. I am sure that trying to figure this matter was a part of the reason he wanted to scout around instead of staying with us… though I am very interested to see who he suspected to have betrayed us all. I will never forgive that person, whether it’s a she or he…

“You’re right. We don’t have enough clues to guide us and it wouldn’t do anyone any good if we try to communicate anyone magically now, it will only lead those dogs to us. We will have to wait then and At, go check on the kids and then set up your own little camp too. Make sure to leave a space for Ty cause I predict that he would want to share the same ro…I mean tree as you.” Rina said but recovered smoothly from her slip as she inclined her head towards the direction of the kids, and I have to bite my lips hard to force back the grin that was threatening to surface. No! Bad grin! Go away! I don’t want to be murdered by Rina for laughing at her slip; I did rather face the peacocks, aka dogs as Rina calls or D.O.H the official dumb name for them.

“Ok, I will do just that. I think that five minutes should be enough for me then you can go set up your own camp. You may want to share with one of the kids since there is a odd number of them but it doesn’t really matter. As long as they aren’t alone, it would be fine.” I told Rina before walking off towards the children.

They were all mostly done setting up their camp up there now. Negil was with the timid Vintel while the noisy Elit was with the always-sensible Horane. Elit and Horane together was never a good combination and having them together whispering to each other quickly, with clear amusement and excitement in their eyes… though on closer look it was Elit doing all the talking as Horane had a worried look on his face as usual but still… this wasn’t a very good thing because these signs were the harbinger of trouble. Beria was with her best mate Milaran and also the quiet but hardworking Cam. All were huddled in their different groups under their chosen trees. Must be discussing about the current situation but for a certain pair of duo… I am not sure about their subject of conversation, though I highly doubt it was about the peacocks chasing us. Since I am on strict orders from both Tyol and Rina… I have to abandon my title as ‘Mr. Prankster’ and check those two out… hopefully I wouldn’t catch them red-handed cause I highly support the cause of pranking! But I can’t admit that out loud.

“Hey Rane! How about we… er… let’s see… something original… AH HA! How about we go and tamper with At’s tree? I bet Ty would be sharing with him too and moreover, we can finally succeed our plan in pranking Mr. Prankster! We can finally be proud ourselves Rane! Cause we wouldn’t be below him anymore in pranking and he’ll be too serious about this whole matter to actually notice this! This… IS OUR BEST CHANCE RANE!!! We can’t miss it or I will regret it my whole life!!! Come on Rane! Let’s do it!!!” Elit squealed quietly in excitement as he bounced up and down the whole time, obviously excited that they can finally make sure a they prank me successfully. But too bad Lit, you’re busted cause I just overheard your whole plan… oh you will definitely can a gift from me any time soon Lit… for even daring to suggest something like this.

A devilish smirk plastered my face as I continued watching their conversation while hiding myself in the shadows of the trees. I hid my magical presence too no matter how small it was as Horane was rather sensitive to it. Elit was still trying to persuade Horane to join him in his little quest to prank me, and kept jumping and jumping like a kangaroo, not tired after all that running. However, Horane was always the most sensible one as he kept shaking his head, stating that now was not the time to prank because of the tense atmosphere, and that Tyol had orders that we should not be fooling around. Still, I could see the gears in Elit’s mind working as he thought of a way to play with Tyol’s words… reminds me… I should probably advise Tyol to be more specific the next time because this little imp likes to play around with our words if we weren’t specific enough…

“But Rane! He only said no fooling around. That doesn’t mean no pranking around. Moreover, this is serious matter! And some more, we wouldn’t be making any noises cause we’ll be as quiet as possible and the one making all the noise would probably be At. So we wouldn’t get into any trouble. Come one Rane!! Please???” Elit begged as he clung onto his friend’s arm, his violet-blue eyes flashing a puppy-look. Uh oh… don’t fall for it Horane…

To my dismay, Horan’s hazelnut eyes were tinted with acceptance and kindness as he fell to his little friend’s begging. And Elit upon sporting the look, grin and hugged his friend, jumping up and down again as he thanked Horane. Sigh, kids these days… but I still can’t help but smile at their antics. Friendship is deeply needed in a world like these, and the strongest of bond can even be formed between two very different people, like these two in front. One was of white hair, while the other black; one more mischievous and the other sensible and reasonable… and yet they form a bond, a bond of friendship with each other not because of their similarities, but because they simply care and look out for each other… these two will be the best of friends forever I could sense…

“Ok Lit. I promise that I will join you on your pranks…” Horane started as he gripped Elit’s arms to stop all the jumping, “but not today ok? Maybe some other days but today is a no.” Elit let out a whine and pouted at Horane, face immediately turning sour as he sat down and cross his arms over his chest ignoring Horane. Tantrum of children these days…

I could see Horane bite his lips as he try to think of a way to cheer Elit up. He sat down beside Elit who was still ignoring him and held out his little finger. Now this got Elit’s attention as he turned and looked at Horane curiously.

“How about this. I promise you that I will always join you on your future pranks, but you must promise back that you wouldn’t prank anyone for the next few days until… things got better.” Horane said as he looked at Elit pleadingly. Elit seemed to weigh his options as he still sat there unmoving.

“Promise?” Horane prompted again nervously and could not help but smile as Elit finally brightened up and nodded his head, interlacing his little finger with Horane’s, sealing their promise with the same smile.

“Promise!”

Then, they practically hopped up their trees to probably discuss some other stuffs and I could only stand there staring dumbly after them, as I felt myself basked in warmth. Touching as it is and definitely would always be a part of their limited happy memories. I could only hope that they friendship would pull them through this whole damn thing…cause friendship and care is what is keeping us all alive around here…and speaking of friend…

HOLY!!! I FORGOTTEN ABOUT SETTING UP THE CAMP!!! Rina is so gonna kill me I thought sadly to myself and quickly rushed off to set up with my fastest speed, hopefully not making Rina wait too much. She hates anyone who is not punctual and really hates waiting for anything even for a minute because time is precious…wait for no man…etc. And I still want to live to be able to see the other group and hear Tyol’s explanation… which totally spark my curiosity again, and SHIT!! NO!! ATHEN GANTZ!! CONCENTRATE!!! I scolded myself and climbed the chosen tree easily, settling all the necessary stuffs like putting up some minor wards to ward off insects, animals and also an alarm to alert us of anything strangers. I need to put up some more things but time waits for no man… sadly enough…

Quickly, I fumbled around carelessly while panicking all the way, afraid of a certain blonde that will murder me for being so slow…

Tired?

2010-01-22T04:39:00.000-08:00

Today got activity, and it was kind of fun actually. Though i swear that by hook or by crook i will freaking make sure that our school's lake dry up or smth... everytime is

Teacher/or who ever: Ok everybody, 2 rounds around the lake... no make that 3 because i it's
more than 2 but less than 4. Now, go

Oh well... if we don't have the lake then it's around the school right? Then that's bad lol...

And my dear hui ying, i have changed the link so for GOODNESS SAKE STOP SPAMMING ME!!!! DIDN'T YOU READ MY RULES???!!!

Ok, onto more important matters. Hey... i don't really have any important matters, just that i am going to have another hectic week *urgh*, sigh, cause i am a very busy person as you can see... though i have to admit that i don't really appreciate it cause i prefer to fly than walk... and i have no idea what that means and no... i am not going to take that back cause i am just typing what came to my mind.

Hmm... reminds me, the devil thing was quite fun, but i can't really think of any plot right now, wait... i think i have a plot cause i am currently smsing ke yun.... i am so gonna do something to piss her off man... don't tell her that if you don't want to see me attend my funeral so quickly...on second thought, i think you want to do that don't you?

Inside me

Devil : *glance around nervously* Is Angel here?

Neutral : No, she's out to buy some manga at Orchard. Should take her about a few hours to get
all those that she wants since she now also likes Fairytail.

Devil : *heaves a huge sigh of relief* good, now.... I AM GONNA MAKE SOME NOISE!!!

Neutral : *ignores, stares intently at computer screen, typing madly away*

Devil : *Fumes* i said, I AM GONNA MAKE SOME NOISE!! I AM GONNA MAKE KEYUN
ANGRY!!!!

Neutral : *Still ignores Devil*

Devil : *angered* OI!!! SAY SOMETHING!!!

Neutral : *nonchalent voice* Seriously, you have been shouting for the past few posts and you
are still at it.

Devil : I am not shouting! IT'S MY NORMAL VOICE!! WAIT!! THAT'S NOT THE POINT!!

Neutral : I never said it was *Shrugs*

Devil : *Vein about to pop out* Why you little....

Neutral : What do you expect? HelloooOOOOooo... i am neutral remember? I am not supposed to care about anything. So i am no going to say anything.

Devil : ....*deep in thought*.... that's kind of true.

Neutral : It is true, or are you too dumb to realise that?

Devil : *Furious* OF COURSE I KNOW THAT!! HOW DARE YOU INSULT MY INTELLIGENCE YOU IMBECILE??!!

Neutral : *cringes at loud voice* geez, you don't need to keep shouting right? it's very irritating you know?

Devil : *devilish smirk* That's the whole point, i am supposed to be a irritating person that gets on everyone's nerves and do all kinds of evil stuff.

Neutral : *shrugs* ya ya, of course, good ambition, continue to strive for that. *looks back to com*

Devil : *stares at Neutral, a plan forming in her head. She walked towards Neutral, took the laptop away quickly and smash it into the ground. Laughing maniacally.* That will teach you not to ignore me lowly human! And to prove to you that i am indeed the devil! MUHAHAHAHA!!

Neutral : *stares at broken laptop, then suddenly, the room's temperature seemed to have dropped a few degrees and Devil froze in mid-laughing. Neutral was engulfed in an evil aura, and when she looked at Devil, her eyes were a deep black, a sea of anger and fury lashing about in that emotional eyes of hers.* You... how dare you.... how dare you do that to my laptop?

Devil : *lost her bravery and cringes away, but was met with a wall instead.*

Neutral : *hisses out at Devil* Look i don't care whether you are a double personality person or an annoying scum, but i care when you actually dare to smash my computer when i was being so patient with you. Are you simply a witless person? Or do you have a brain but you don't use it at all? So, let me make this clear, you, are not to do anything else in the future that will disrupt my peace and tranquility or anything that belongs to me because if you do... *smirks and moves closer to Devil, face to face with her and grabs her collar* i will personally make sure that you will never ever get to see the sun again... Am i clear?

Devil : *visibly shaken and not coherent to form a sentence*

Neutral : *pissed off, and shook Devil hard* i have just asked you whether i was clear on this matter. ANSWER ME! *Neutral suddenly thundered and Devil quickly nodded her head*

Neutral : *Aura gone all of a sudden, and she smiles warmly* Good, now that all things are settled, would you kindly buy me a new laptop... now?

Devil : *nodded quickly and rushes off, not wanting to face Neutral's wrath again*

*Angel suddenly enters, with bags full of mangas*

Angel : Did i miss anything?

Neutral : *shakes head* Nope, nothing important. But by the way, you should know that Devil is up to something again.

Angel : *Sighs* When will i ever get peace and quiet?

Neutral : *shrugs and thought to herself* "At least i am going to have peace for the time being... for a long time being" *and she smiles a wicked grin*

Back to Reality

That was so fun lol , i was laughing at it all the way. But oh well, that's all for today. Think gonna sleep le, so ciao.

hmmm

2009-12-11T05:57:00.000-08:00

i decided that i didn't like the way my current story was developing so i am deciding to change it. the plot is still the same, but i think i will change some things here and there since i am sure that my writing style will differ... .

oh well, i am not really sure if i want to delete my past efforts with such a click.... but i should do it

onto more important stuffs, i am bored.... for a reason.... cause i am tempted to change my sister's wallpaper (which is the picture of fuji from prince of tennis by the way) to reborn! or something related to either fairytail or reborn. Hmm... what to do what to do....?

Inside me

Devil : MUHAHAHHAHAHAHAH!!!! THE MIGHTY DEVIL.... IS BACK!!!

Angel : *nonchalant, continues reading manga*

Devil : *clears throat* I SAID... I AM BACK!!!!

Angel : *ignores, totally focus on manga instead*

Devil : *stares at angel and fumes* I SAID I AM BACK FOR GOD'S SAKE!!!! CAN YOU GIVE ME SOME REACTIONS!?

Angel : *finally looks up* welcome back *reads manga again*

Devil : *wide eye* What the hell....

Neutral : Peace and quiet.... finally

Devil : *speechless, then stares at Neutral* you did something to her right?

Neutral : White represents light, black represents dark and grey represents the neutral.... Gandalf the Grey, or should i say, Gandalf the White... shall be my role model from today onwards....

Devil : *snaps* ANSWER THE QUESTION!!!!

Neutral : *turns to look at devil, speaking slowly* one might say that i did something to her, but another might say that it was of her own will and that i have got nothing to do with it...

Devil : *look like she's about to faint* GET TO THE POINT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Neutral : For one to get to a point, the one who asked should show the direction of the point first....

Devil : *finally snaps* @!*#&!*@^$*&!@^$*&@^$*&!@@^$! HERE I AM TRYING TO WRECK HAVOC AND YOU COME AND BEAT AROUND THE BUSH!!! WE ARE SUPPOSED TO BE DECIDING WHETHER WE SHOULD CHANGE THE WALLPAPER LIKE WE NORMALLY DO AND YET SHE'S THERE READING AND IGNORING ME!!! HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO CONTINUE??? NOW YOU!!! YOU DON'T EVEN GET TO SAY MORE THAN 3 SENTENCES IN A DAY SO HOW COME YOU ARE SPEAKING SO MUCH NOW??!!!

Neutral : *sips tea* Even if Angel is normal... i don't think that you will listen to any of our advices... can you see the irony young one?

Devil : *panting* What the.....

Neutral : *sips some more* You young one... still have much to learn... to be able to know what to say at the right time and place and observe your surroundings... such is only the basics of what we call knowledge....

Devil : *can't take it anymore* @*#!@($&(!*@&$(*!@&$(*!@&$(* YOU DAMN BASTARD!!! #*$&@(#*&$(@#*&$(*@&#$(*# *continues while Neutral remains compose*

Angel : *stands up suddenly, emitting scary aura*

Devil : *stops from trying to hit Neutral, turns to look at Angel with a bad feeling*

Angel : *stares at Devil with cold eyes, hair flying wildly like in anime, suddenly holds tonfas in hands* You herbivore, who dare to disturb the peace and tranquil of Nanimori.... Kamikorosu! *rushes at Devil*

Devil : *astounded before running away by instinct, screaming all the way* THIS ISN'T EVEN NANIMORI!!! FOR GOODNESS SAKE!!! I AM SUPPOSED TO BE THE SCARY ONE!! NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND!!!

Angel : *continues chasing* The weak ones should get eaten. Prepare to face my wrath/

*Screaming could be heard, as well as the sound of crashing against the wall and bashings*

Neutral : *left forgotten, went to pick up the manga, which reads Katekyo Hitman Reborn, vol 1* It's a wonder how a book can make such a difference... *grins mischievously*

Back to reality

That was... fun =D i was having fun lol, imagining them running around =D ok, now i gtg, ciao

Well...

2009-12-07T04:42:00.000-08:00

Since i was so damn fed up with the music, i put both the mp3 format and the wma format... if that still doesn't work you have permission to come and kill me...... wait, i take back my words.

yes, i put a cbox because i wanted to? And it was just there so yes, i put it there and there was no problem now that i put it... why i don't know and don't want to know...

If i haven't add any links yet other than my sis... i would ask you to tolerate but no, i won't beg you to forgive me cause i would never ever ever ever ever do that.... and no, i don't feel like typing the Angel and Devil thing cause i am bored, not a good enough reason for me to type, rather, i don't even know why i am crapping here =.=. Oh well *shrugs*

Maybe if i am in a mood later, i will post my second chapter or just crap some stuffs. But no, i am not in the mood right now, and you can't force me either. So, that's just too bad for the some of you, which i totally know who you are. No use hiding cause your objective is so obvious - you will never get a single cent of of me.

Maybe it isn't just that but, *shrugs* i will go now, i just post for fun only, so ya, and i realised i didn't leh or la =.= maybe i have but i just forgot...

I just realised something....

2009-12-06T02:33:00.000-08:00

That damn music player just won't show up on my firefox but it shows up n the internet explorer!! WHAT KIND OF GAME IS THIS??? ARGH. i am not pleased with it at all! how dare it oppose to my wishes?Darn it, i will solve this one way or the other. And wait a minute... how come my sis laptop can leh???? What the hell!!!! Wait.. .YES!!! IT WORK!!! MUHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

...*cough*....

got a little too carried away there.... oh well. It is a good day to celebrate so let's drink beer =D

Ok, i was joking... again....

hmm... maybe i should change the music once in a while too...

and the devil and angel thing was kind of fun

but i don't even know why i am bothering to update? oh well , i am just plain bored. Yes just bored, not enthu about it at all

Hmm, don't think i have anything else to say.... and i can't find a point to put in my angel and devil thing so...

AH I KNOW!!! post my story.... cause again i am bored and the story is draggy and all those but i can't help it =.= and it is also on hold cause i need to do some thinking for the story's main plot and the storyline, if not it will just not link up. and yes... it's super long... i think so if you don't want to look at it, wait for my next post? Which i can't predict is when though cause unless i have a certain reason to... and the devil in me awakes again...

Inside me

Devil : Money money~ just use a knife and thrust it in front of them, then they will all freak out and the money will come pouring in... *sadistic grin*

Angel : .... that is... rather.... sadistic you know? And it's wrong too, this is your blog for goodness sake so how can you threaten ppl to pay you money for you to write something that you are supposed to be writing for your own benefits?

Devil : MUHAHAHHAHA!! You got it all wrong my dear angel... we merely need a reason to threaten ppl, so as long as there is a reason the consequences can be ignored as long as the money is in my pocket...

Angel : THAT IS WRONG TOO!! your whole concept of getting money is wrong! And here i thought that you are a smart being. Haven't you heard of 'you reap what you sow'?

Devil : i am smart... yes that's true i'm afraid but i have never heard of such a dumb saying before, rather, i only heard of 'when you can get easy money, just do it' and this makes complete sense.

Angel : *slaps forehead with palm* No it does not make any sense. Your WHOLE CONCEPT is wrong!!! I have to teach you what's right and what's wrong.

Devil : Oh i don't need you to teach me, i know perfectly well. For example, at school we learn that at the traffic light there, when the man is green, you walk, when the man is flashing, speed walk, and when the man is red you dash!

Angel : *faints* NO!!!! THAT IS TOTALLY WRONG!!!

Devil: What's wrong with it? It is perfectly right for me. It makes sense, compared to the tonnes of crap you are blabbering.

Angel : What i am saying isn't... crap! It is about a beings moral rights and modest and honesty and to live your life to the fullest, not rob the ppl of their money!!

Devil : Who said anything about robbing?

Angel : You just did didn't you? All the knife thing.

Devil : No, that's threatening and it is suitable for me, the superior to do such a thing since you guys are inferior to me... mud...filth.. useless *holds head high*

Angel : *on the verge of snapping* SINCE WHEN WERE YOU SUPERIOR???? *dripping with sarcasm*

Devil : .... since the day i was born?

Angel : *Sigh* i give up.....

Neutral : FINALLY. Peace and quiet... i didn't know that tranquility is such a wonderful....

Angel : *fires up* NO!!! I MUST NOT GIVE UP!!! I WILL SAVE YOU FROM THE DEPTHS OF SUCH CRUELTY AND DISHONESTY TO THE EXTREME!!! NOW!!! LESSON NO.1 !!!!!!

Devil : *stares*

Neutral : *sighs* i shouldn't have let you use my laptop to watch reborn....

Back to reality

Looks like i found a place to put it in after all =D and the idea that devil though of was pretty interesting...

I want watch new moon

2009-12-05T07:02:00.000-08:00

Yes yes, new blog, new name, new skin, new song, watever. Oh yes, remember to leave your link if u want me add... dunno how long that will take though.... oh well, if you come up with a suitable threat maybe i will just add it on the spot.

Anyway, yes i love reborn =D you should go read the manga at www.onemanga.com, just search for katekyo hitman reborn. The anime's nice too, you can go watch it at, i dunno i forgot the name, just go search yourself.

By the way, if you don't like the song then... stop it yourself, yup, you the thing that looks like a triangle? Yes that, press it and it will stop.

I amay post my stories here or maybe i will just post some funny videos or something, cause i am bored? Oh well.... i will figure out how to place that music in its correct place soon enough.

Or i will just crap here... and argh, i am hungry =.= oh well, i will just bear with in. And just another thought, the song doesn't imply anything, i just like it. The end. Full stop. End of story.

Ok, i realise that i am crapping... but i won't ask for you to forgive or say sorry... why should i anyway?

You know, maybe i should just start typing something that shall be named 'things that shall not be done to anger me' or 'things one that shall do to make say person crazy.' oh well, i am sane after all...

Yes the music will get on your nervesafter listening to it for a long time, for me is ok but since my sis is beside me... i shall try my best not to anger her right? She is reading a book too and more the reason to anger her... maybe i should start typing like this instead

Inside of me

Devil : Just blare the music for god's sake

Angel : No, that won't do, it will disturb her for sure

Devil : Who gives a damn about that? cause i am sure that i will be enjoying it... kufufufufufu....

Angel : I swear you are watching too much Reborn, especially mukuro... but the main point is that it is not good to disturb anyone, especially someone who's reading, the more the reason to keep quiet

Devil : Well, watever, when there's light there will always be dark. And dark always prevails cause i rule *malicious grin*

Angel : The first part is right but the second part isn't. And what do you mean b you rule? Don't you have any... grace or modest?

Devil : A dark lord doesn't need to be humble cause i am the most superior of all, the most powerful, you are nothing but filth.

Angel : Are you serious? you are watching too much Harry Potter too, who do you think you are? And filth? Oh gosh... MANNERS!!!

Devil : I am not sirius... i am tom marvolo riddle, lord voldemort, he-who-must-not-be-named, you-know-who... you mudblood *smug grin*

Angel : *sweatdrop* sigh, i can't stand you

Devil : *grins* does that mean i win? So BLARE THE MUSIC!!!!

Angel : NO!!! DON'T YOU DARE!!!!

Neutral : Oh for god's sake! SHUT UP!!! THE BOTH OF YOU!! I 'm hungry!!!

*fights continue between devil and angel*

Nuetral : reminds me... why do i even bother... they don't ever listen to me....

Back to reality

ok.... that WAS kind of fun =D lol i was bored. Anyway, i think i will go search for some videos or something cause i am bored. So stay tune, and always remember, you heard it first from me =D (ok, that was from 2012 =.=, i admitted ok?) and i just realised the title of my post has got nothing to do with the content... oh well *shrugs*