Shadow Realm

By: Hector Elias

2

CHAPTER 1: DREAMER

“We found you again.” Said a voice. It was a sweet, tender voice.

“You will never escape us!” Called out another sweet and tender voice. The stone pillar

that was hiding my presence received a strike.

“We know you are in there my dear.” The first sweet voice spoke again. I heard a small

gasp and then another strike came to the stone pillar, too hard maybe. The pillar came crushing

down leaving me uncovered. I gasped and jumped under one of the remains of the pillars. Two

small synchronized laughs appeared with some sweet and irritating tone.

“We got you now!” I jumped out to face them. No one was there.

“Right here…” I turned in a rush, my heart skipped a beat. In front of me stood two girls,

beautiful they were, twins in fact. One of them raised her hand and pointed at me.

“Good bye my dear Shadow!” A huge ray of light beamed at me.

―Ahh!!‖ I screamed out in a gasp. ―It was just a dream…‖ I looked around my room. It

was still very dark, but I could identify almost everything in the room. The dark cozy room

warmed me for a moment. Almost everything was out of place, mostly the books that were piled

up on the table.

I am no more than considered an ordinary person. I live with my family in Cheshire,

Connecticut; it‘s what could be called a small town. I like it here, it‘s humid, it‘s mostly clouded

and it rains a lot. I live in a small house in Old Towne Road covered by trees.

My name is Hector Elias, I‘m 17 years old, I‘m a bit over 6 feet tall and skinny with long

dark hair and my eyes are some kind of hazel color. I was born on October 15 1992. I do not

consider myself any more special than anyone else; I just know that I‘m different.

Since a long time I‘ve known that my imagination is far more developed than almost

everyone my age, or even older. Since I was very young I had an obsession for knowledge, I

needed to keep on learning. I read all the books at the school‘s library at the age of 12. After that

I looked for more sources of knowledge, which, I found at Academy Road, corner with Main

Street, right next to the Town Center Plaza. McKratey‘s Book Store.

I‘ve spent most of my afternoons there. I just keep reading and reading, always

something new. I‘ve seen so many books in there that I thought they didn‘t exist. I guess that

that‘s what attracts me the most, books that can‘t be found anywhere else.

During the time I am asleep my mind flies to a world where anything is possible. I

completely change, no trace of which I really am. I‘m stronger, faster, I can do about anything.

My physical appearance changes as well; my hair is quite longer and messier. My

muscles bump up a little making me look stronger. My clothing is almost always the same, a pair

of Levis and a dark shirt.

What mostly changes is not my physical appearance, but my mind. During my dreams

I‘m someone else. I have powers. I can fly; I can create energy just with the palm of my hand.

And what it‘s most amazing is that I can control the shadows. Every shadow that is near me, near

anyone, every shadow that is created by light... It‘s under my command. That is why I‘m called

Shadow Realm.

I go through all my nights in this world, where we all fight for survival; it appears that

my dreams connect with the ones of others where we all try to prove who‘s stronger.

Some say dreams are only to be thought... Never to be real... I know they are wrong.

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"Once again these twins appeared in my dreams. They are still far stronger than me." I

believe that dreams from other people connect with mine, making a union throughout the world

through dreams.

I still have no idea if the twins I meet in my dreams are part of my imagination or if they

really exist.

I slide off my bed and took my clothes off. It was ten past 5 a.m. I grabbed the Levis that

were on the chair next to my bed and got them on. I walked shirtless over to the kitchen and

poured myself a glass of milk. It was indeed refreshing, feeling good at that time in the morning.

I walked over to my room and put on a shirt that was lying on my chair.

It was not much time after I rushed out the door of the house in direction to McKratey's.

At 5 it sure was cold. Should've gotten a jacket before leaving.

I walked tired and out in the cold for about 30 minutes. Finally I got to the corner of Main

Street and Academy Road, where a big old building, far older than all the ones around, stood. In

big wooden letters 'McKratey's Book Store'. The grand entrance door was a bit open.

"6 a.m. and opened." A gratified smile grew on my face.

I slowly opened the door; the screeching sound was bothersome and loud. I stepped in

quietly.

The huge dusty old round room full of bookshelves all around was somehow warm and

cozy.

"Mr. McKratey, are you in here?"

I heard a little bump coming from the door behind the counter. It was still dark and my

vision was not fully clear.

"Mr. McKratey?" I asked as I walked behind the counter.

"I'm back here, come on in." Called out a voice coming from behind the door.

I peeked into the room, indeed there he was, an old skinny short person moving some

crates.

"Oh, hi there Hector. Come on in, I have something for you." The back room was even

messier than the entrance, packed up with even more books, much bigger too.

The small man pushed two crates near each other and sat on one. "Go ahead, have a seat."

I walked over and sat on the other crate. "Good to see you again Mr. McKratey."

"Yes, good to see you too Hector. What have you been up to?"

"Not much... I've been having these same dreams. I always encounter some twins, and

I'm always defeated by them. These fights really make me angry... It had been a long time since

someone could defeat me like they do."

McKratey had a curios look on his face. "Interesting... If I recall correctly the last to

defeat you was your brother wasn't he?"

"Yes, he was..." I underestimated Phoenix's skills. Though he is my little brother, his

imagination is really big. At the end of your last fight I was victorious, but he sure was giving me

a good beating.

McKratey just smiled and crossed his legs. "What can you tell me about the battles with

the twins?"

"It's really hard to explain. Their fighting style is something I had never seen before. And

what makes it stranger is that their fighting styles are completely different from each other, but

together, they are perfect."

McKratey didn't looked so surprised. "Sometimes it's like that, strange things happen. So

tell me, what makes their fighting styles so unique?"

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"Well, what's curios about them it's their elements. Light and wind. It's weird because

these elements don't match up, giving them some disadvantage, which worries me because their

fighting styles make some kind of combination making these two weak elements, deadly."

"Somehow when they fight, they have an unbalanced balance. I know it sounds cheesy,

but it's true."

McKratey had a small riant smirk across his face.

"One of them uses a long sword, making her slow but lethal. The other one uses two

small daggers, making her more agile than the other yet not as deadly... At a time."

McKratey just kept nodding at everything I said.

"So somehow they manage to defeat you with those disadvantages?

"Yes..."

"Interesting..." McKratey kept nodding.

"What are you thinking of now?" I asked a bit frustrated.

"It amuses me... Two not too strong elements and two different fighting styles... How

could they use that against you?"

I grunted a little. "Maybe the wind and light are really faster than a shadow." I tried to

make this sound as a joke, but was hard for me to show the expression.

McKratey looked up to a huge watch located right next to the door I came from.

"Time sure goes faster when you have fun..."

I looked up to see the watch. "7:30? Wow, that sure was fast."

The little old man jumped off his crate. "You came really early, you should rest a little."

He opened up the crate where he was sitting on and pulled out a really large, dusty book. He

blew off the dust that was over it and entered my eyes. "Oh, I'm sorry."

I slowly cleaned my eyes. "Don't worry." I said smiling at him.

He got close and handed me the large book.

It was a leather style cover and had a thin gold embroid detail at the corners. The cover

looked very damaged and old.

The first thing I noticed was the little at the top centre of the cover.

'The Book of legends'

I looked at it amused.

"This book was handed to me to protect. Now I hand it over to you..."

I looked at him, speechless.

"The Book of Legends. That's what the title says."

"So what's so special about this book?"

"The Book of Legends." He corrected. "It's said to be a real magic book." He had an

emphasis on real. "Written by the Mortisangelux, an ancient civilization." He paused a bit to

clear his throat. "It's said that whoever that dreams from their heart and can understand the

book's runes can make anything possible, either if it's for good or for evil."

I looked at him really curiously. "Do you understand the runes?"

McKratey looked down with an unsatisfactory smile. "Never did I have a chance to see

its contents."

I looked down at the book. I was really curios about what it contained. "May I?"

The old man's face brightened. "Go ahead! Go ahead!." He insisted on me.

I flipped open some pages. My eyes widened and McKratey looked down once again.

"Blank?" My eyes narrowed while looking at McKratey.

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"I really hoped you'd be the one to see through the paper unto the text. Being sincere, I'm

starting to believe that the legend in this book is only a myth. I had never been so instigated by

the content of the book than how I have been today."

I looked over to his depressed face. "Why did you have so much faith in me?"

"Because I've never met someone who believes so much in his dreams like you do. That's

what made me believe that you would be the one to finally decipher it. It is also said that the last

time the magic in The Book of Legends was used was about one thousand years ago. Can you

guess how excited was I?"

McKratey made a little pause, which I wouldn't dare to interrupt. "Could you imagine

kiddo? What would it be to have your dreams come true? You for example, what would you give

so you could turn into Shadow Realm any time you want? Not in a dream, but in reality."

My jaw fell as he said this. "I would trade anything for it..."

A smile crossed McKratey's face. "You should better head back home."

I smiled at him and nodded. "Yes, I think I will." I grabbed the book and tucked it into

my bag. "Thank you Mr. McKratey."

"Anytime Hector."

I grabbed on to my stuff and walked out.

The sun was coming out. I walked over to my house; I cared not about the time. I walked

straight over to my bed. I laid for a few seconds till I heard my stomach rumble. I wonder what

could I raid on the fridge...

The rest of the day was very average, I watched T.V., and read most of the day.

I flipped open The Book of Legends once in a while, and like the first time. Blank.

"Ahh!" I felt dizzy while all the energy rushed around me.

I threw myself to the floor to create an energy barrier over me.

One of the twins hovered before me with one arm extended, launching energy beams at

me.

The wind elemental girl rested against a tree, enjoying, as it appeared, the sight of her

sister overthrowing me.

"You will not defeat me!" I jumped out of my barrier, with my sword in hand. I slashed

through some of the beams. Unfortunately that was a bad call.

One energy beam was enough to thrust me against a tree.

"Ahh!" I screamed in pain. I slowly opened my eyes to observe how the sightseeing twin

stabbed me with both daggers beneath my shoulders, nailing me against the tree.

"There you go my dear." She said smiling and kissing my cheek. She moved out of the

way as her sister raised her sword, having the tip raise my chin up.

"You know, you cannot defeat us. Just give up, this is over."

"It's not over yet!" My body tensed as an energy wave was expelled from my body.

Both of them were thrown to the ground.

I pulled both daggers out my shoulders at the same time.

I felt as a scream escaped my lungs, but I held it between my teeth.

The light elemental twin quickly got up, her sister remained on the floor.

I threw the daggers to nail, the fallen girl's dress to the ground.

"Hey!"

I took out my sword and dashed at the standing girl. My temper was at its limits. "Die!"

As I approached her, I quickly slashed.

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To my surprise she swiftly moved away from my sword.

"Idiot." She said in a quiet yet memorable tone.

I felt a movement of pain rush through my back.

I turned to see the other girl stab my back with her daggers.

What a pain these two are. I turned and slashed at the dagger girl. She jumped

backwards evading my attack.

I span to slash at the light elemental. It seems she knew my thoughts before I did.

Her sword was already blocking the way of mine.

I felt a lot of pain rush my left arm. The other, had stabbed me again. My body tensed

once again.

Another energy wave was expelled from my body.

Both were pushed away, the one with the sword was pushed against a tree, the other fell

to the ground, dropping her dagger from her hand.

I took her dagger off my arm and threw it to the ground. I walked over to the girl on the

ground.

She raised her right hand before standing up. A great gust began. The wind was too

strong for me to keep going closer. In fact, it was pushing me backwards. As I tried to keep

moving forward, my body could not resist it anymore, so I was thrown to the ground.

"Can't you see it Shadow? You are tired and hurt. While we haven't even broken a

sweat." Said in a mocking tone the one with the sword as they both stood in front of me.

"Now." Said the other while grabbing her daggers. "It's your time to fall and ours to

rein!"

Her sister pointed at me.

I tried to stand up as soon as I could.

From the tip of her finger a huge beam of light was launched towards me.

I lost all vision.

―Ahhh!‖ Once again I had this dreams where I get overthrown by those twins. I sat up on

my bed, sweating and panting. The room was very dark, cozy like always. It was nearly one in

the morning.

I reached over to my nightstand and turned on the lamp that was on it.

My room was slightly lightened, everything was a mess, like always.

The dark wooden walls made me feel very comfortable. I looked out the window, a

cloudy day it will be. I stood up and grabbed my bag. I sat back down.

I took out The Book of Legends and stared at it. Everything about it looked very

attractive, its gold detail on the edges, the engravings it posses and the damaged pages, all so

appealing.

I opened it slowly; the slight cracking sound that came from the pages separating gave

me a great sensation.

My eyes widen as soon as the first page flipped open.

The pages were filled with text; unfortunately it was only with runes like the ones on the

cover.

―What?!‖ It was hard to believe, which frustrated me because even though I could see the

text I was not allowed to understand it.

the ideal The power of the mind, known to be the most

powerful there is, is in grave danger. Throughout this book the

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one who can see and understand its writings has in hands the

power of the ancient gods who used the power of their minds as

weapons.

While I looked at the text I noticed an irregularity, it was in fact getting lighter. I scanned

back to the top of the page and saw no text at all. In a moment the whole page went blank.

―No...‖ I flipped through all the pages. All blank. ―No!!‖

I grabbed the book and threw it at the wall in a moment of rage.

Why? The text had appeared, it was right in front of me and yet, for some reason it

disappeared. Will I get to see it again?

I wanted so bad to go to McKratey‘s right now, but there was no way he would be open

at this time, about 2 in the morning. All I could do at this time was to sit back, relax and try to

rest though it was going to be hard after having an ancient text revealed, and then see it vanish

away.

I laid on my bed, covered myself with the sheets and closed my eyes.

It was hot. I felt dizzy and troubled. "Where am I?" The setting in front of me was a big

red valley full of hills, mountain and no vegetation.

"Surprised?" Called out a voice.

"Who's there?!" I boomed.

"Don't you recognize my voice?"

Where did it came from? I looked around. No one at sight. "Show your face!" I yelled

again.

A loud screech was heard behind me. I turned quickly and saw a huge bird covered in

flames falling down one of the biggest mountains.

When it reached the ground it created gusts so strong they almost pushed me over. Dirt

entered my eyes leaving me blind for a moment.

When the wind and dirt was all gone I slowly opened my eyes.

A small kid, wearing Levis and a red shirt, stood where the giant bird reached the

ground. The kid grinned at me.

"Can't you recognize your own brother? Or is the great Shadow Realm scared?"

I pushed myself back and stood in a fighting position. "Ha! Me? Scared? Don't make me

laugh Phoenix!"

"Oh, so you do remember me?"

"How could I forget you Luis?"

His grin vanished as I spoke. His body started to get consumed by flames.

Two huge red wings rushed out his back. His fingernails turned into sharp looking claws,

his clothes turned into a shining golden armor that covered almost all his body and his hair

turned fire red and grew long covering his left eye.

"Ha, you've changed a lot." I said in a joking tone.

"Things have changed; I knew that I wouldn't ever be the same after you defeated me last

time, but this time will be different. I will not fail tonight!" Phoenix launched a fireball at me.

I jumped out of its way. "You've gotten faster." I said in another joking tone.

"And you are getting slower!" He threw at me another fireball. Doing the same

movement I jumped out of the way.

When I stood and looked at him, I saw how his wings pushed him upwards. He was flying

few feet above the ground; I've fought many times against my brother, but it's the first time I've

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seen a transformation like that. Though he uses the name of the legendary fire bird, it is the first

time I've seen wings on him, and him actually flying.

He threw another fireball at me.

"You've got to be faster if you want to defeat me." I dashed at him and jumped in front of

Phoenix and punched him under his right shoulder.

I fell to the ground and stood, turned back at Phoenix, but he was on the air.

"Very good eh?" He threw another fireball, this time I was not fast enough to evade it. It

struck me on the stomach and pushed me over to the ground.

"Damn..." I thought to myself.

I tried to move out of Phoenix's range, but every time he launched an attack it hit me.

I started to pant slowly.

I dashed over to Phoenix and jumped in front of him to punch, unfortunately he moved

out of the way making me fall onto the ground.

"I'm starting to get tired of these games Phoenix."

"Why? I'm just getting started."

As soon as I stood I raised my hands in a a quick movement and launched an energy

beam at him. The beam struck directly, making him fall to the ground.

While he was standing up, I took a glimpse at my right hand. An energy ball was forming

at it. "Farewell, Phoenix." I launched the energy ball at him.

Phoenix's red eyes widened. "No..." He jumped out of the way and the energy ball fell

right behind him. As the energy sphere touched the ground, it created a huge explosion that

launched Phoenix up to the sky.

He hovered with his giant wings.

"You really are a repulsive vermin, Shadow!"

"Oh, you flatter me." I said with a little laugh.

"This will end now!" Phoenix got me by surprise as he raised his hands, rather than

launching me a fireball as I thought he would. He lowered his hands and his body started to

consume by flames again.

I stood once more in a fighting position, waiting for anything he would do.

The flames around his body started to get a shape, a bird. The fire had the figure of a

gigantic bird, a true phoenix.

The bird flew up high and at high speed he went into my direction, faster than I could

ever imagine it would be.

Before I could move out of the way, the bird passed through me.

I fell to my knees and begun to breathe heavily. With only that I had my body full with

bruises, cuts and burns.

"I thought you were going to be more of a challenge against me. But, it appears I was

wrong."

I stood up with some strength I had left.

Phoenix flew down in front of me while I was getting up. He punched me on the face and

threw me backwards.

I fell completely on my back. All my newly made cuts and bruises pained as I fell.

"Is that all you got?" I said again, in a joking tone.

"Hahaha! This will be fun." His wings sprung again and raised him up into the air. I

stood up, as quickly as I could. I slowly unsheathed my sword while he was looking at me with a

deadly stare. "Bring it on!"

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Phoenix launched at me a large fireball. Even though my body ached I slashed the

fireball and jumped up into the air and grabbed one of Phoenix's arm. I pulled him down and

sent him flying downwards towards the ground.

His wings quickly flapped making him stop, moments before touching the ground.

"Phew." He slowly whispered to himself. Little did he know I was coming behind him as

he fell.

I stomped on his back making the crash successful.

I jumped off his back; a cloud of dust covered where he fell. Maybe that was all he got,

maybe he was only bluffing.

In an instant a whip made of flames came out of the dust cloud. It grabbed my leg and

pulled me to the ground. Phoenix's whip pulled me into the almost invisible cloud and stepped on

my chest.

I raised my left arm and launched an energy beam at him. The beam was not powerful

but strong enough to push Phoenix away.

I tried attacking him several times with my sword but it was a loss of time, due to his

whip.

The whip reached a lot farther than my sword, which pushed me away from my objective.

He whipped at me once and it struck me on the shoulder.

The flame whip burned my skin and cloth. The whip left a large mark on my shoulder

which pained so much.

He whipped at me one more time, but this time I protected myself with my sword. The

whip got wrapped around my sword. I used this as an advantage and pulled the sword down.

Phoenix was pulled downwards towards the ground by the whip.

I quickly unwrapped the sword and threw it at him, as he fell on his knees. The sword

pierced through his armor into his chest.

I pulled the sword out of his chest and kicked him down.

He stood up quickly and tried to hit me.

Even though my body ached I moved around evading his punches.

I punched him twice in the chest and once on the face.

He walked backwards after the punch; he opened his hands to reveal his claws. The

claws were covered in flames.

Now he tried to scratch me several times. Even though the claws were not even close to

me as they passed, my skin burned and pained.

I slashed at him with my sword and cut down a piece of his shoulder pad.

He struck me with his elbow on the chest and scratched my left cheek with his fiery claws.

It pained so much; I pulled myself back and covered my cheek with my hand.

Phoenix launched a fireball towards me.

The flames covered all my upper body. My shirt burned down and my complete chest was

unprotected against the flames.

What kind of dream can let me suffer this much? I don't believe this is a dream, not at

all... I fell backwards, why should I continue to fight? It is obvious that I will not come out

victorious from this fight.

Phoenix came close and stomped on my chest. "Is this if brother? Is this all you got?!"

I didn't answer back at him. I just laid on the floor, dying.

He kicked me, launching me through the air.

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I couldn't move after the landing. I kept laying on the floor with my eyes closed. Is it

over? Is this really all I can do against him? No... It can't be.

I felt a fire start on my chest. It was not pain nor the flames from Phoenix... It was

different. Another type of fire. It was courage...

I felt it burning through all my body.

I opened my eyes and stood up. I smiled at Phoenix who gazed in disbelief. "Surprised?"

I said with a small grin.

"How can you still be standing up?!" He opened the palm of his hand and launched

another fireball at me. I swiftly moved out of the way. Quickly turned and grabbed the tail of the

fireball, pulled it and threw it against Phoenix.

"What?!" The fireball struck him on the chest.

I slashed off another piece of his armor.

"God damn it Shadow!" He said as he tried to punch me.

"What is it? Cant' handle this?" I said with a big grin while dodging his punches.

"Why won't you just die?!" He threw a punch at me which I grabbed and pulled him

down, causing his chin crash against my knee. He fell backwards; almost as he touched the

ground he jumped back to a fighting position. "This won't be it!" He threw another punch at the

same time as I did.

Our fists struck with great force against each other. A crushing sound thundered

throughout the tangible space.

Energy emanated from the strike.

We were both pushed backwards.

Quickly Phoenix punched me on the face. He tried to punch me again; I grabbed his arm

and threw him against the floor. As he fell his wings sprung from his back and darted towards

me. I moved out of the way as fast as I could.

As a bullet, Phoenix sped by my side towards the sky.

When I turned around towards him I realized his whip was wrapped around my right leg.

"Fuck..."

The flame covered whip pulled me through the air. The speed in which Phoenix traveled

was remarkable. The wind that passed near my wounds made the ride more painful. We were

easily one thousand feet up in the air and I couldn't let go of the whip's grip.

"Sorry, rides' over."

"What?!"

Phoenix's whip unwrapped from my leg letting me fall.

I fell a few feet and turned around, still on air. "Remember I can fly as well."

My eyes went wide open. It appears Phoenix hadn't left this small detail out of sight. I

had a large fireball right in front of me.

The fireball threw me towards the ground. As I fell to the ground, a sword which blade

was covered in flames impaled my left shoulder.

"Aaah!"

Phoenix dropped down over my chest. "What are you going to do now, eh?"

It was almost impossible for me to move.

"Is this all you got?" He stomped on my chest. I grunted in pain. "Answer me!"

I shut close my eyes. "Not just yet!" I raised my right arm and launched a shadowball at

him.

He flew up, back to the sky when the shadowball hit him.

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I slowly took the sword off my shoulder. I stood up and blew at my cut, stopping the blood

from coming out. His sword was heavy as hell. How can he carry it with such an ease?

Phoenix dashed at me with an incredible speed.

I grabbed the sword with both my hands and swung it. I was pushed backwards with

great force, with the sword still on my hand. Phoenix fell a few feet away from me.

I felt too weak to stand up, I leaned on the sword to help me up.

Phoenix stood up with a weak move. His wings sprung once more.

I held tightly the grip of the sword. "What are you planning to do Phoenix?"

His glare did not change. Not a bit. Phoenix dashed towards me.

I grabbed the sword tightly. The strength that I had left might not have been much, but

with it I threw the sword at Phoenix.

The impact was so tremendous that the valley thundered by it. With the velocity in which

Phoenix traveled, the crash sent him backwards towards the ground at yet again an incredibly

fast speed.

I kept still, standing as I waited for a movement from him. I was not surprised to see a

lifeless body on the floor. It would indeed be hard to believe to see him alive after that impact.

After a minute or two I slowly turned around.

"Where do you think you're going?"

A small smirk crossed my face. I turned back to see Phoenix slowly rising.

Most of his armor had been torn off, his lips were bleeding, as well as his chest and left

arm.

"This isn't over yet!"

"Is that so? Prove me wrong then."

He could hardly walk as he slowly stepped towards me.

As I reached for my sword a large fireball pushed me over.

"That won't be needed anymore. This is all going to end now."

His wings sprung from his back once more. They were all damaged by now, almost

featherless. Even though they looked weak; they raised Phoenix high in the air, still at very fast

speed.

As I stood up, Phoenix's body was covered by flames.

All the fire around his body concentrated on his fist, creating a large fireball.

I prepared myself so I could dodge or counter the fireball with a spell. I looked around

for my sword, which was too far away from my reach, it was till then when I realized that the

fireball was already two times the size of Phoenix.

I ran over to get my sword, Phoenix not even flinched.

The fireball was growing as every second passed by.

I jumped over to him, but a huge firewall pushed me back. "What are you planning to

do?!"

Phoenix stayed still. The fireball was now matching the size of a building. Phoenix's

expression changed. He was angry yet smiling."Take this! My pyroblast!"

Phoenix launched the huge fireball at me. The immense ball of fire moved surprisingly

fast, and I had no time to lose.

I launched a shadow bolt at it, but it only grew bigger.

Phoenix was laughing in an evil way. "You are doomed Shadow!"

I made my right hand into a fist. "Bring it on..." Just as the huge fireball was about to fall

on me, I raised my fist making it the centre of the impact.

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The fire ball seized its movement as my fist absorbed the hit.

Large fragments of the ground were pulled up by the energy of the yet to impact fireball.

My feet began to sink, deep into the ground. My strength was disappearing, the veins on my arm

were completely visible. My arm had lost its strength, my body was half way through the ground.

I can't do much more. I rested my arm and let the fireball fall on my body. I'm just hoping

my legs can resist it's power.

Once more large pieces of the ground were pulled up and exploding as they got close to

the fireball.

I was so deep in the ground I knew it was a matter of time till it ell completely over me. I

couldn't let that happen. I grunted madly as I pushed myself up.

"This is over Shadow! This is all over!"

He launched an energy wave at the fireball. The hit was so strong that it pushed me to my

back, letting the fireball fell all over me.

As the flame ball touched the ground a great explosion was created. Everything at the

valley vanished.

Phoenix lost balance and fell to the ground.

Nothing was visible at the moment.

Phoenix cleaned his eyes after the dirt disappeared.

Everything was all plain, there was only one irregularity, a gigantic hole where the

impact occurred.

Phoenix got to his feet. "I finally did it... I finally defeated Shadow Realm!"

Phoenix smiled as he walked, with difficulty over to the hole. As he reached over to the

edge of the gigantic hole his eyes widened tremendously. "Wha...What??"

"Surprised?" I was barely standing at the center of the hole.

"How can this be possible?!" Phoenix tighten his fists. "You're supposed to be dead!"

"So I thought so myself, yet I'm still here."

Phoenix launched two fireballs at me.

I quickly jumped out of the way of them both. Surprisingly I was still able to move. I

jumped out of the hole.

As I touched the ground a large fireball pushed me over.

Phoenix took out his whip and whipped at me several times with rage.

I grabbed the flame covered whip and pulled Phoenix down.

"You will need a lot more than that to defeat me."

He stood up and dashed at me. He tried to punch me but I pushed his arm away with my

forearm and punched his chest.

Blood ran down my arm, but I was quite sure it was not his.

Pieces from Phoenix's breast plate fell to the ground. He grabbed my bloody arm and

punched me on the face twice.

I cut loose from his grip and cleaned off the blood from my lips.

There was a huge hole on the middle of his chest where my fist struck.

Phoenix jumped revealing his claws.

My right fist was covered with a dark flame like materia.

Phoenix's pupils dilated as my fist encountered his uncovered flesh. He spat out blood.

The air became breathable once more. His hair turned back to his natural brown color. A

ray of dark energy emanated from my hand and launched Phoenix far through the air.

When he fell to the ground a huge dust cloud was created.

13

The temperature lowered greatly. "It's all over now." I pressed down my wounds and

slowly turned around and started to walk away.

I came to a stop when I felt the heat rising once more. I turned around and got into a

fighting position. The dust cloud slowly faded away. Phoenix stood with one knee. "Damn it..."

Where does he store so much power?

He stood up slowly, his legs were trembling. It was hotter than any moment before.

Flames overlaid all his body, but something was different, the fire surrounding him was blue.

He shut tight his fists, once he opened them again his claws were larger and looked

sharper.

His golden armor turned royal blue, the broken armor rematerialized with a new design

that covered most his chest. The lower part of his armor grew long under his calf. His left iron

boot grew over to his knee, and his gauntlets covered most of his arms. His hair grew short and

spiky up with some covering his right eye. His hair, wings and eyes turned blue.

What have I gotten into?

Phoenix bent down and began to scream.

His energy rose amazingly fast. Veins around his eyes popped out. Tremendous gusts of

wind rose, almost knocking me over. The ground below him started to crack. Big boulders rose

from the ground and shattered as they got to the level of his eyes. Energy waves began to come

out of his body.

I tried to walk over to him, even though the energy waves pushed me backwards.

Before I noticed a firewall stood in front of me. The wall passed through me burning me

deeply.

Phoenix stood straight and stared at me. In a swift movement Phoenix got all the way

over to me and punched my stomach before I could react.

As I tried to defend myself he kicked my legs, penetrated my chest with his claws in mid

air and threw me down to the ground.

"Let's see if the great Shadow Realm can survive this fatal encounter." He slowly

retrieved his claws making my chest pain.

He kicked the ground and flames came out of the ground behind me.

While I was in the air Phoenix's whip got a hold of my legs and pulled me towards the

floor.

My body bounced and my brother kicked me towards the sky.

I tried to regain control of myself but Phoenix was always waiting for me every way he

sent me flying.

I fell once to the ground and Phoenix tried to kick me again. This time my body

dematerialized before his fist stuck me and I appeared behind him.

I used this chance to hit him behind his lower neck, making him fall almost

instantaneously. I almost fell to my knees, as my body was giving more than it could.

Phoenix immediately turned around and threw me a punch.

I used my forearms to counter his punches, as he used his to counter mine. I felt that the

bones of my arms were any moment to break against his massive armour. I had to think of a new

way to defend myself. I took a quick spin in which I materialized my sword and slashed at

Phoenix.

By that time Phoenix had his flaming sword out and blocked my sword with his. "Can't

you see it brother? I'm always one step in front of you."

"Not for long!" I struck Phoenix on the face with my elbow making him drop his sword.

14

Phoenix stepped back and covered his bleeding nose.

I punched the floor below me and a large wall of dark light surrounded Phoenix. In

moments all that was heard was a long scream that came from inside the beam of shadow light.

After a minute or so the screaming seized and the wall vanished. Phoenix stood at the

very center with his shoulders down, a depressed look and bled by his arms legs and chest.

Needless to say most of his massive armour was gone by now.

"Very well." He said as he cleaned the blood on his face. "So this is how you want to

play...? So be it." A huge ray of fire struck me and sent me flying backwards.

When I fell, Phoenix jumped from where he was standing and fell on me with a punch. He

struck my shoulders and sent both of us deep into the ground.

He kept on punching wildly nonstop. Each and every single punch pained me incredibly,

and every time he punched me we got deeper into the ground.

Once I had a chance I punched him in the face and blasted him out of the hole.

I slowly stood up. It was dark and humid. It was weird because outside it was dry and

hot. I touched the walls in the hole, the ground had water. "Amazing...." I don't know why it

attracted me so much.

The tranquility in this place was broken when the flame whip entered the hole and at high

speed took me out of the hole and launched me to the air.

While in the air Phoenix whipped at me and the flaming whip wrapped around me. He

threw me to the ground and up to the air again like a human yo-yo for a while, until he span and

let go of me.

I fell to the floor facing down. There I laid until my brother walked close and turned me

over with his foot.

"No more mistakes... This is over." He raised his right hand and revealed his claws.

"Farewell my -" His hand fell lifeless and he felt to his knees.

I penetrated him with his sword that was lying by me.

He touched his wound and his hand soaked in blood. "I... I didn't even use half my

power..."

I raised my empty hand and grabbed him behind his neck.

"I feel cold... Shadow... Cold."

"I know..." I pulled him down, the sword went through him.

He fell over me and his body was consumed by flames. When his body disappeared I

stood up and stared at the sun. The image of a phoenix formed next to it.

"Farewell my brother."

I rose from my bed, put on my clothes. I walked over to my brothers' rooms, both my

brother and my sister were still asleep.

I walked down into the kitchen, both my parents were at work.

I worked on an omelet. I took my time and finished my omelet peacefully.

I went upstairs and grabbed my bag where I had The Book of Legends.

I walked outside towards the McKratey's store. I passed by neighboring house, waved at

the people, even joked while passing by with the young ones.

I walked into McKratey's store with a quick step. "Mr. McKratey!" I yelled out. I minded

not of my manners at the moment. Not even a hello slipped out of my mouth. "Mr. McKratey!" I

went to the back of the store to find the old man up a stair accommodating some books.

"Hey there kiddo." He said and slid down the stairs with great ease.

15

"Take a sit." He said and sat down at the same chest as yesterday.

I sat next to him.

"What's wrong Hector?"

I sighed slowly. "I saw them..."

McKratey stared at me confused.

"I saw the book's text."

McKratey jumped up. "What?!" McKratey said with an astonished look. "What did it

say? What was it like?"

I just looked down. "I don't know, I couldn't understand it, it was in the same kind of

runes like on the cover." It was a terrible pain, I couldn't decipher the text and I will stay with the

curiosity forever.

McKratey patted my back. "Don't worry kiddo; the important thing is that you saw them!

You saw what I've been looking for all my life!"

That made me smile indeed. The morning ran short. McKratey and I kept on discoursing

what the text could contain.

I hadn't looked at the clock since last night. "What time is it?" McKratey signaled me to

the grandfather clock located behind me. It was ten to one. "What a morning eh?" McKratey

smiled. "We could've gone forever with your imagination." I laughed a little. "I have to go."

"Very well kiddo. Have a good day." "Thanks Mr. McKratey."

I walked out of the shop as someone walked in and heard McKratey's welcoming line

'Welcome, here you may find every book in the world. All but one.'. I was somewhat amused. I

wanted to meet some friends so bad right now, to do something other than to stay at my house.

I walked in to Elena's Dinner, a small cozy dinner more like a coffee shop instead of a

dinner located a block away from McKratey's. Most teens tend to come here almost daily so it

was for sure that I would find someone I know here.

The nice small coffee theme made me feel comfortable. I walked towards the first chair at

the bar table.

"Hector!" I turned around and to my surprise Alina and Alida were standing behind me.

Alina and Alida are twins I met about three years ago. Both of them very pretty, with long black

hair and brown eyes. Both a bit shorter than me. The two of them are very good friends of mine.

One of them is very talkative which made our conversations very interesting. The other

one is a bit more conservative but always had a strong and firm opinion about any subject.

"Hi!" I greeted them both with a kiss on the cheek, what a pleasure to see them again.

"How have you been Hector? It's been a very long time." I smiled at them with a little

laugh.

"Yes, it has been quite long. Would you like to sit down a bit to talk or eat?" I kept on

smiling, totally ignoring their question. I currently don't know how am I, I guess too many

emotion for such few days.

"Sure, we'd love to." Alina said smiling.

We headed over to the third table with big ‗love seat‘ like seats. I sat alone on one of the

seats, while Alina sat at the left side of the opposite seat, Alida, taking her place next to her

sibling.

"So, Hector, what have you been up to?" Alida said smiling.

"Not much, I visit old McKratey about daily. I still continue with my stories and poems,

and I guess that's about it. How about you?"

16

Before they could answer anything the waitress got to our table. "Would you like to order

something."

I hadn't looked at the menu since we got here. I looked down at the menu in my hands.

The twins shared a sight. "two small burgers, two small cokes and fries." They both

answered simultaneously.

The waitress nodded while waiting on her pad. "How bout you?" She asked looking at

me.

"I'll have the same as them." I said with a little smile.

"Three small burgers, three cokes and fries. Got it." She wrote on her pad and walked

away.

"Well, pretty much nothing." Said Alida.

The waitress came back with the three cokes. "Here you go."

"Thanks." We all said at the same time.

"We pretty much been couch potatoes who do nothing at all." They both began to giggle.

I just smiled at them, these are the kind of conversations that I usually love, someone else talking

while I'm just listening. A sudden tock snapped me awoke.

"Here they are." The waitress left the burgers on the table.

"Thank you Lucia." I said with a big smile while looking at my ½ pound burger.

"You're welcome Hector." She smiled and went away.

"Looks like someone has been coming here lately." Alina said with a laugh.

I smiled a little. "Not at all. In fact, it's been a long time since I last came here."

The evening was delightful, the burgers nothing less. It was fun to go out with someone,

specially with two special girls. We shared many laughs throughout our lunch.

When we finished our burgers and fries the waitress came with the bill. I quickly grabbed

the bill, it was twenty bucks. I took out a twenty dollar bill and placed it over the table.

"Oh no Hector." Alina said fierce fully.

"You are not going to pay for us!" Alida boomed.

"I'm not going to discuss about it." I looked at the waitress. "Lucia please don't let them

pay." Lucia smiled.

"Here we go again."

Lucia is a friend of mine, she is my age and has always seen me in this problems.

"This is not funny!" They both said at the same time.

I hate this discussions and I'm always dragged into them. I don't know what's the problem

with women when you try to pay the bill.

Both of them opened their bags. I quickly glanced at the waitress, and she took the bill

from the table. Both of them glared at me as the waitress walked away.

"Shall we get going?" I asked with a big smile on my face.

They were both still glaring, "Yeah, whatever." One of them said. We got up and walked

outside. The weather was nice; it was not hot and a cold breeze blew.

"Any plans for the summer?" I asked trying to bring back a friendly conversation.

"Not much I guess." Said Alida.

"We will have to see through it." Answered Alina.

A black car parked in front of us. "Hi mom!" Alina and Alida rushed to open the door.

"Hi." I said and waved behind them both.

"Hello Hector." My aunt said with a smile. "How have you been?"

17

"Very well, thank you." I answered smiling.

"Want a ride?" She asked.

"No thank you, I'll walk."

Alina turned and said: "It was not a question, we will give you a ride." She glared at me.

"Ok, ok, I guess it will be nice." The three of us got into the car.

The ride was nice indeed. "Here we are." We were parked in front of my house.

"Thank you so much."

"No problem." My aunt responded.

I kissed the three of them goodbye and went outside.

"I guess we'll see you later Hector." Alina said.

I winked at them and waved. I walked inside into my room. I took out my stuff from my

pockets, my wallet, my keys and my phone. Something was different. I got my hand into my

pocket and found fifteen dollars. "Alina..." I sighed. What was I going to do now? I smiled and

left everything on my desk and turned on my computer.

18

CHAPTER 2:THE MAN WITH THE SILVER KEY

I smiled as I looked at the picture in my hand. I look really happy in it, so did Alina and

Alida. The weekend went quite fast. Yesterday I met with the twins once more.

Normally I prefer to be alone, but it sure is nice to have some company once in a while.

An afternoon in the park with two friendly, none seizing mouth moving companions is

something I wouldn‘t like to forget in some time.

I went down and had some breakfast. My sister Ileana and I prepared omelets for

everyone. We used ten eggs, two for each, plus the one that accidently fell from my hands.

I walked outside to the park and sat below a tall tree. I had not gone with McKratey since

I found the twins. I closed my eyes and slightly hit my head against the tree twice. I held my

backpack against my chest. I felt the shape of the Book of Legends pushing against me. I took

out the book and stared at it. The leather cover and the fine print made it so attractive.

I flipped open the book, no writings, as usual. I closed my eyes and hit my head against

the tree once more. The wind got stronger. I opened my eyes and looked around, no one to be

seen. Closing my eyes I fell to a deep sleep.

I am here for a reason. There is no doubt that I‟m in Eternity Forest. I came not much

here even though it is incredibly beautiful. For some reason I‟ve come here for a confrontation

with the twins. “Come out!” I yelled while looking around. I have no doubt they are here.

I saw a shining light coming from the far end of the road I was in. Some gusts started to

pull my hair backwards.

Two silhouettes appeared at the end of the shining road. I stood still on my place, waiting

for them. I will not fall this time. Tonight will be different.

A thin ray of light passed through the vast sea of trees and illuminated their eyes. Four

beautiful brown eyes were shown that second. They both stood before me with a pretty smile.

Both of them have long black hair, both a bit shorter than me.

“Hello dear.” One of them said. I glared at both of them.

Each was wearing dark green cloaks with golden embroids on the edges, with symbols

like the ones inside the Book of Legends. If I‟m not mistaken the text of the one on my left read:

„Life in one of its most basic forms, polluted with beauty.‟

To the twin on my right the emroiding was different and read like this:

„never seen, never spoken and never listened to, yet she

always stands by you.‟

They smiled while looking at me.

“What do you want?” I asked fierce fully.

One of them walked forward and wrapped her arms around my neck. “Isn‟t it obvious?”

She paused for a moment. “We want you to die.” I received a punch to my stomach.

I slowly stood up straight.

The difference in our heights was extremely noticeable. “Why is it that you want me

out?”

The one who had her arms around me smiled. “My name is Lumina. My sister back

here.” She said cocking her head over to her sister. “Her name is Brizza.”

Brizza slowly waved her hand from behind.

“You didn‟t answer my question.” Lumina laughed and Brizza stepped forward.

“Neither have you.”

19

“What question?” Brizza just smiled. Her beautiful face began to fade in thin air.

“Ready for it?” Lumina said with a riant smile.

Brizza‟s body had completely faded away.

“Ready for what?”I said in a harsh tone.

Lumina reached next to my ear and said in a very sweet loving voice. “You know… We

wouldn‟t do this my dear, but it is, completely necessary.”

“What is?”I exclaimed.

Her whole body begun to shine. She looked so beautiful with the light emanating from

her body, something I had never seen before. In a second I went blind. The light was too much

for my eyes.

Some moments later my sight came back, Lumina was nowhere to be seen. “Now this is

starting to get annoying.”

Giggles were heard all around but no one was near. I was just standing there, exposed,

waiting for something to happen.

“Wind Blades!” Two chakram like objects darted towards me with great velocity.

I jumped forward and saw the two wind chakrams spin past below me. As I reached the

ground I received a strong punch to the face. No one was there when I opened my eyes. “Damn

it…” I cleaned the blood on my lips.

“Wind Blades!” I jumped out of the way of the chakrams. They both passed through a

tree cutting it down.

If they cut down a tree so easily, what would it do to me? I heard some movement in the

forest in front of me. I darted out with my sword in hand and stopped where no more sounds

were heard.

Lumina grabbed me from behind.

Brizza reemerged from thin air in front of me. She walked forward taking out her

daggers. She came speechless towards me and penetrated my chest with one of her daggers. I

spat out blood as whispered something out.

“What?”

She got near me and whispered in my ear. “Wake up Shadow. Wake up.”

I opened my eyes quickly. I was still in the park and it was starting to get dark. At my

right I had a small poodle lying next to me and a schnauzer was sniffing me at my left. ―Hey

little fellows, where are you from?‖ I patted the poodle when the schnauzer jumped over to my

hand and moved the poodle out of the way. Jealous little pup. I smiled; both of them were very

pretty, so their owner must be near.

I got up and both of them ran in circles and then looked at me. As I walked they followed

me. We went deeper into the park where a fountain was located. Both of them began to drink

water from the fountain.

―Perry! Muffin!‖ Called out a harmonical voice. Both dogs rushed over to an incredibly

beautiful girl. ―Thank you so much for finding them.‖

She had long black hair and two beautiful light brownish eyes. ―Well, they were the ones

to find me.‖

She carried the small poodle. ―What is your name?‖

―Hector, what is yours?‖

―Alice.‖ She said with a pretty smile.

―Nice to meet you Alice. What are you doing alone here at dark?‖

20

"Well it isn‘t that dark and I can take care of myself you know.‖

I smiled and let out a little laugh.

―Well if you are worried about my safety, will you take a walk with me?‖ She said

smiling.

I smiled back at her. ―Sure, that would be nice.‖

The night was delightful. We shared many laughs and smiles. I‘m pretty sure this would

be the beginning of a great friendship. I walked with her over to her house. She lives near my

house in Chipman Drive.

―So… Will I see you again?‖

I smiled at her and said: ―I really hope so. Don‘t worry, I live in Old Towne Road, so we

could visit each other."

―That sounds nice.‖ She said while blushing. ―Muffin, Perry, come inside.‖ Both dogs

entered the house.

―Goodnight.‖

―See you tomorrow.‖

I smiled and walked away.

I was very happy right now. I walked over to my house and into my room. I turned the

T.V. on and got on my bed. In about half an hour I fell fast asleep.

Where the hell am I? I was surrounded by a lot of people. It was like a market place, but I

couldn‟t figure it out where exactly was I. I walked forward where most people were walking to.

There was a stand every few steps. They sold all kinds of things. Weapons, armours, charms,

potions, lots of things.

A merchant pulled me over to his stand. “It looks like you are a sword user; take

a look at this first class sword.”

I grabbed the sword, it was very pretty, very light and it didn‟t look too hard to handle.

“Do you like it?”

“Of course I do.”

“Well you‟re lucky because it is at a special price today. It is at only 75 brising dinars.”

I kept the sword in my hands but then I heard someone yelling.

“Stop him!”

I dropped the sword into its place and ran to the center of the crowd. It appears that

something or someone was coming towards my direction.

“Move it!” A silhouette ran past by me making me to fall over. Two other men or

creatures followed the man quickly behind him.

I got up as quickly as I could and followed behind them. In a moment they came to a stop

searching everywhere.

“Where did he go?” Asked the troll.

“I can‟t see him.” Answered the man.

I felt a strong, hiding presence above me, and it was getting away. “The roof tops.” I

whispered to myself.

I jumped up upon them. Indeed there was the man those two were chasing. “Stop!” I

yelled as I began to run towards him.

He turned slightly and then jumped back off to the market place streets.

21

I jumped behind him, yet he was no longer there. “Damn it.” It was so crowded that it

could be impossible to detect his presence.

I got pushed by the people. Never had I thought of go with the flow so literally.

“Is it the great Shadow Realm?”

I looked everywhere.

“Come here.”

“Here we got the best of the best.”

Every stand was full with people trying to get you to its stand.

“Sit down.”

I turned to my left and saw a blindfolded man with messy hair, wearing a black cape, a

dark blue loose shirt, a pair of loose pants of the same colour and two black tabi; who was

seated on a red carpet.

“Are you waiting for a printed invitation or what?”

I sat down in front of him.

“Coffee?” He said raising a cup.

“No thanks.” I said politely. “Do I know you?”

He took a sip of his coffee. “No you don‟t, but we have a friend in common.” He paused

a little. “How bout some ramen?”

I stared at him speechless.

“No? Very well then. Well, don‟t look at me like that.”

“How do you—”

“—Know?” Interrupted the man. “Well, when you don‟t see the world with your eyes,

you need to learn how to really see.” He smiled and stood up. “Come with me.” He turned to the

small house located behind him and took out a lever key to open the house‟s door. Behind it

there was another door. There were doors after doors, all being opened with the same key even

though the locks were different.

When we got to the eighth door, it was opened already, an entrance to a normal house.

The man closed the door and locked it.

“Why did you —”

“—Lock it? Well we don‟t want to go where that door leads” When he finished locking

the door he took out a silver key, got it inside the lock and opened it.

Before the door opened completely he turned and asked me: “Why were you chasing me

earlier?”

“It was you who those people were after.”

“I‟m surprised that you didn‟t recognize me.”

“Why would I? I never saw your face.”

“But you saw my essence, as I saw yours, which is why I know it was you who was

following.”

“Why were those two chasing you?”

He let out a small laugh and opened the door. A blinding white light came from the door.

The place was freezing cold, yet, at the same time it was warm and cozy.

“Where are we?” I asked curiously. The place was like a big dojo. I had never been in

one before and it was somewhat exciting.

In the middle of the dojo there were two mats. The one at the right was blue and the one

at the left was red. The man walked over to the carpets and sat on the red one. “What are you

waiting for? You need to take decisions; you won‟t be invited to everything you know.”

22

I shrugged and walked over to the blue mat, sat down and the man poured me a cup of

tea.

He took a sip of his tea; I just stared at mine. In my reflection I saw the twins and my

battles with them.

“Can‟t defeat them, can you?”

I stared at him speechless.

“What? You know exactly what I‟m talking about. Lumina? Brizza?”

“How do you know about them?”

“As I said before, we do have a friend in common.”

“Who is this friend we have?”

“With time you will know. The real reason you are here is not any coincidence. You are

here because I wanted you to be here. It was finally time for us both to meet. My name is Kaezar.

You have a lot of things to learn, starting with where you are. Do you know the name of the

world you‟re in?”

I looked up. I had never thought about it before. “I have no idea. As a matter of fact I

didn‟t even know it was called a world.”

Kaezar took another sip of his coffee.

“Dreamland maybe?”

Kaezar laughed out loud. “Now you‟re funny. The English language sure is

manipulative. This world is called Solumsomnium. Latin sure is beautiful. There isn‟t an exact

translation, but yes, the English translation is in fact The Land of Dreams. It is important that

you do not confuse it with something phony like something marvelous with rainbows, ponies and

all that crap. This is a very real world to many.”

I took a sip to my tea. It was horrible, but I cared not much, I was very interested into

what Kaezar had to say.

“Think of it like another dimension. And somehow our dreams manage to connect with it

and giving us control of some alter egos.”

“You said us… Does that mean you are not a native to Solumsomnium?” It was pretty

hard to say.

“You‟re right, I‟m not.”

I gazed at him wondering.

“I am as well a mundane who travels here at my dreams.”

“Then why do you have so much knowledge about this world?”

He took another sip of his tea.

“So it is true… You don‟t have the connection.”

“What connection?” I asked a bit frustrated.

“This is a world just like ours, but not only humans live in it as I‟m pretty sure you

already noticed this. You yourself, a half elf, you are another race, one of many other races that

live in Solumsomnium.” He took another sip of his tea.

I took one of mine. Disgusting.

“When we dream, our minds enter somehow to this world and create an alter ego of

ourselves based on our minds and selves. These alter egos, in your case, Shadow Realm, live in

Solumsomnium like normal folk. Normal to one extend, with their powers and everything they

are born with, different from us. These egos grow too, they learn, have memories, everything a

normal person does. When we sleep we take control of our egos, have their powers, abilities and

memories.”

23

I dropped the tea cup. “And why I don‟t know any of these things? Why don‟t I have

Shadow‟s memories?”

“I have not all the answers, I didn‟t make this possible. I have no idea why you can‟t, but

I do know that you are not the only one with this problem, and some do make this connection

with time and training.”

“What kind of trainings?”

“I can‟t be sure… It would be like testing, teaching you the basics of living in

Solumsomnium, maybe you will start to remember. Besides, I may help you defeat the twins.”

“How exactly will you do that?”

“I will train you, physically and magically.”

“Not to contradict you but I know how to fight.”

Kaezar laughed out loud.

“What‟s so funny?”

“You are good Shadow, you are good. You are a natural brawler. You have a fighting

spirit and a strength any man would envy. But you have no style, you fight to win, but it doesn‟t

work like that always. My guess is that because you don‟t have a firm discipline Lumina and

Brizza keep defeating you.”

My blood boiled with rage. I stood up angrily. “What would you know about fighting?

Till now you‟ve shown me you have a lot of knowledge, but what about the dangers of

encountering death?!”

He laughed again. “You don‟t want to get to that with me.”

“Why not? Bring it on Kaezar!”

He smiled and got up.

“Don‟t worry, I‟ll take it easy on you.” I said in a laughing tone.

He launched his fist forward. A strong gust began inside the dojo. The wind pushed me

with incredible force against a wooden pillar. The pillar broke down, I fell and the pillar fell on

me. The ground began to tremble. Huge rocks emerged from the ground and pushed me against

the roof. The rocks slipped down violently.

I fell over the rocks and pieces of the roof fell on me. It was very cold. It was snowing

outside. I tried to get up.

Kaezar surprised me with a kick in the face.

I got up as soon as I could. A huge wall of fire pushed me against the dojo‟s wall. The

fire disappeared. It was so strong that I was still stuck against the wall. I tried to get off it but a

large boulder was thrown at me and sent me flying out of the dojo into the snow. I slowly got up;

the snow around me was red. My nose and lips were bleeding.

Kaezar took his time to go through the hole the boulder left.

I launched a shadow ball at him.

He pushed forward his hand and made a circling movement with his finger. The shadow

ball circled around him and dashed towards me.

The ball struck me and pushed me over.

Kaezar stood next to me, he extended his hand towards me. “Had enough?”

I spat out some blood. “Sure… Why not?” I grabbed his hand and he pulled me up.

He helped me towards the dojo. When we got in, the dojo was intact.

“How come is everything ok?”

He smiled “I guess I‟ll have some explanation to do. What do you know about magic

users?”

24

“You mean Magicians, Wizards and sorcerers?”

“Exactly.”

I looked around thinking. “Not much, aren‟t they kind of the same thing?” Kaezar and I

sat down at the center where the mats were still located.

“Ignorant may call them the same. They are all magic users, so yeah they are kind of the

same thing. The differences between them are their level of experience, their rank, their control

over magic and how they control them.” He stretched himself a bit. “The wizard, the lowest

ranked. These fellows manipulate magic through short carved sticks called wands. They rely on

spells more than anything.” He took out a small thin wand. “Aqua Imperium!” He said twirling

the wand. In front of us there was a cup full with water. The water in the cup began to move; a

thin stream of water arose from the cup. It made circular movements around me and back to the

cup.

“That was so cool!”

“Yes, it may very well be cool, but it is extremely weak.” He withdrew his wand and

clapped once. As he clapped a long old wooden staff appeared at his hand. Both of us stood up.

“The mage. An exceptional magical warrior. The mage utilizes the staff to extend his

magical abilities.” Kaezar stomped the floor with his staff. All the water from the cup rose with

an incredible speed. The water surrounded me completely creating a sphere I couldn‟t break free

of. The sphere crashed against the wall with incredible force.

“Give me a break man. First you beat the crap out of me and now this.”

Kaezar laughed. “You‟ve got to be prepared for anything.” He let the staff down. “Come

outside with me.”

I struggled behind him towards the door. As we walked outside he began to talk.

“The sorcerer, what an incredible being. These folk are mostly loners. They fight mostly

for survival. Their knowledge of magic is far more superior to a mage. They don‟t use any object

to help them control their powers. They use their own bodies to manipulate the magical energy.”

Kaezar moved his hands, the snow began to melt and the water that was left began to gather

around me. In moments a huge water pillar raised me through the air. In any moment he could

throw me down and smash me or something like that. Kaezar dropped me slowly on my place.

“Thanks.”

“You better be, you could really be hurt with an attack like that.”

“So, what are you?”

“I‟m an Ethereal Master. There aren‟t many of us in Solumsomnium.”

“What are you exactly?”

“Ethereal Masters are the most powerful magic users of all. We are very alike to

sorcerers but we do differ a lot. Sorcerers use their bodies to control magic. Ethereal Masters

use their souls to take up massive quantities of magic. Look around us. The dojo is located on a

valley at the top of a mountain.” He raised both his hands. He struggled to do so. A thundering

sound was heard from far. The ground began to shake. An incredibly large tidal wave was about

to run over us.

My reaction came out naturally. “Fuck! Make it stop!” I closed my eyes and waited for

the worse. After a few moments I opened my eyes.

Kaezar was smiling in front of me. “We can create massive destructions in seconds; as

well as stop them.”

“What an amazing power.”

25

He walked towards the dojo‟s door. “To have such power you must pay an extremely

high price.” We got back inside the dojo.

“What did you do?”

He frowned and looked down. “It‟s a strong process. First you must let go of what you

love the most. Then you must suffer an unbearable pain in training. You must starve till almost

death. Survive in the wild strength less while starving. Anyway, I will teach you how to fight

using magic and physical strength.”

I wanted to ask him more about the ethereal masters, but he seemed to not like very much

the subject.

“Wait, you‟ve showed me that you are good fighting with magic, but not that you are a

physical fighter.”

He laughed a little. “So you want to get to that with me?”

I was about to argue with him till I remembered how much my bruises ached.

“Told ya. As an ethereal master I don‟t need to keep on training physically, at least not

after the process. I, however, have been training my physical strength. You never know if it will

come in handy. I‟ve become quite handy with a sword. I‟m trying to use the sword as a wand or

staff to amplify my magic‟s energy.”

Kaezar kept talking to me about magic. He will teach me the basics in fighting and spells

a wizard could do. According to him when I finish my training I would be able to call myself a

Warrior Sorcerer.

I woke up past ten in the morning. I got to the shower. Nothing feels better than a hot

shower. When I got out I changed and went downstairs. I could hear my mom talking.

―Mornin—‖ I broke before I could finish.

―Good morning Hector.‖ Called out a tender voice.

―Come and join us Hector, I‘ll make you some breakfast.‖ My mom said.

Alice, the girl I met yesterday was in my kitchen talking to my mom. I wonder what they

were talking about.

―Hey there.‖ I said smiling. ―I‘m really surprised to see you here. How did you know

where I live?‖

She smiled. ―You said we could visit each other. You knew where I lived so let‘s just say

I had to make it fair.‖

My mom came with a plate with eggs. ―Alice was telling me how you two met and that

you walked her home. That was very sweet.‖

Alice laughed a lot.

―It wasn‘t funny you know.‖ We sat down at a bench.

―It was; your mom is very nice.‖

―You could‘ve let me know before coming.‖

She laughed again. ―And ruin all the fun? No way, it was worth it.‖

I frowned at her. ―Well, what do you want to do?‖

She smiled. ―What we do every night, Pinky. Try to take over the world! Muahahaha!‖

I stared at her. ―Seriously?‖

She looked at me with her mouth opened while smiling.

―If someone I know passes by I‘ll deny I know you.‖

26

She smiled. ―Don‘t worry; you‘ll get used to have me around.‖

―Don‘t keep your hopes up.‖

She laughed and hugged me.

It is weird, I met Alice yesterday, but it feels like if I knew her for years. ―So… What

should we do?‖

―Come with me.‖ She took my hand and jumped off the bench pulling me up.

I went out with her almost daily for the next two weeks. We‘ve done about everything.

We constantly go to the park or over to Elena‘s. We‘ve gone to the movies like twice. She has

proven to be a great friend.

During the nights I‘ve been training hard with Kaezar, he wasn‘t joking when he said he

was skillful with a sword. To be honest he has helped me quite a lot. I can‘t be sure but my guess

is that he has been through many battles; painful ones too.

“Humexitos!”

The ground beneath Kaezar fell apart. “Humuslevitan!”

A pillar of rocks grew beneath me. I jumped off the pillar but some sharp rocks appeared

before me. “Calcudefluo!” The stones vanished and I crashed to the ground. I jumped up as fast

as possible, turned and grabbed Kaezar‟s sword with both hands, seconds before it struck me. I

swept Kaezar‟s feet with a kick and grabbed a hold of his sword.

He jumped backwards and I dashed at him. “Electroshock!” About three lightning came

out of his hand and struck me on the chest. The thunders sent me flying towards a wall.

I fell to the floor. “Augh… You said only earth spells.”

Kaezar walked towards me and extended his hand. “You need to be prepared for

anything.”

I smiled at him as I took his hand. “Cheater.”

He laughed out loud as he pulled me up. “Would you like some ramen?”

“Sure.” We both sat on a table in the middle of the dojo. Two ramen bowls were already

served. “Tell me more about life here.”

“Solumsomnium has continents as well, but no governments nor countries. There are

states, cities, towns, realms and kingdom. There is one single currency; it is called a brising

dinar. This is a strange compound between fire and metal, which is extremely common in

Solumsomnium. Gold is used here as well yet almost nobody uses it because it isn‟t as common

as the brising dinar. Most races live peacefully; it is strange if wars appear though everyone

here loves to fight. Even in this world folklore, myths and legends exist, but they are nothing

alike to the ones in the mundane world.”

He served me a cup of his awful tea as I ate my ramen.

“What traveling methods do they use?”

“They vary a lot. It depends of the race, their powers or their money. Most humanoids

own horses, winged horses or tamed dragons, some other mounting animals as well. Most magic

users don‟t bother with stuff like that and they cast teleportation spells, or when experienced they

don‟t need spells. I personally love using my teleportation key. Other transportation methods

include flying, zeppelin flights, ships, etc…”

I took a sip of my tea. “I wish I could have a connection with Shadow Realm.”

Kaezar left his cup loudly at the table. “I‟ve met the real Shadow Realm. I‟m not really

sure what would happen if you two made the connection…”

27

“Why do you say that?”

“You two are different, different in many ways. My guess is that almost everything of you

may change, but there is no way to know for sure.”

I remained silent for a moment. I didn‟t know what to say.

“It will still be you. Shadow Realm is part of you, your mind created him after all.”

We both finished our ramen. “Come Shadow, physical training will start now.”

The whole place turned into a maze. The dojo is a place for training and guidance. It

becomes into what its owner needs.

“Shadow, the first thing you need to do is to find me. I won‟t move, but the maze will shift

its form every two to five minutes. After you get to me I will attack you nonstop using only kicks

and punches. You have to defeat me doing the same.”

“No problem.” I said eagerly. I ran forward till I got to a fork way. The left side had

several ways to go and the right side looked like one straight way. I‟ve seen far too many movies

to know where to go. I took the left side. I heard a loud screech behind me. I turned around but

nothing was there. “Okay… This is starting to get weird.” I got back to my path and turned

right. Just as I made my turn the ground began to shake. The maze was shifting. The road I had

forward got blocked by a wall that grew from the ground. The wall at my left lowered opening up

another way. I heard once more the screech behind me. I turned and saw a lighting going

towards me. I jumped out of the way. “Aqualumina!” Surprisingly nothing happened. A little

fuzzy ball with a face was in front of me. “What the..?” The little ball launched me another

thunder. I jumped to the side and ran forward. “What the hell is that thing?!”

“Oops, I forgot to tell you about them. They are called fuzzies. They are lightning eating

guys. They can‟t kill you but if they struck you with their thunders it will hurt as hell and it will

slow you down. It will continue to throw them at you until you are completely paralyzed.”

I kept running, going different ways as the maze shifted. “What the hell man? Were they

really necessary?”

I heard a laugh from far. “You‟ve better hurry, because more fuzzies will appear, and

you cannot cast spells while in the maze. I guess I forgot to tell you that as well.”

“Great…”

“Oh, one last thing.” He yelled from across the room. “Look out for the traps!”

“What traps?!” I said as I dodged a thunder of the fuzzy behind me. “Woah.” I threw

myself to the floor as two arrows passed above me. Both arrows struck the fuzzy; it turned into

smoke and disappeared. After it disappeared two more appeared right behind it. “Shit…” I kept

on running. One of them shocked my leg. “Fuck…He wasn‟t lying… It does hurt like hell.”

Kaezar said I couldn‟t use spells but he said nothing about flying. I hovered and tried to reach to

the top of the walls but they grew higher. “Damn it!”

“You can‟t fly either.” Kaezar called out. “Anything else you forgot to tell me?!” “No…,

I don‟t think so.”

“You better…” I whispered to myself. I dropped down and now three fuzzies were behind

me. I kept on running. “Fuck!” Three more fuzzies were in front of me. I came to a stop

immediately. I turned and received a thunderstruck to me back. Another one to my chest. I fell to

my knees. More lightnings kept on striking me. I fell completely to the ground; the fuzzies jumped

over me.

They stung me as they touched me. I placed my palm on the floor, an energy wave

emanated from my body, destroying the fuzzies above me. I got up a bit confused. I thought I

28

couldn‟t use magic in this maze. I raised my hand and a shadow ball was on my palm. I heard

more screeching sounds. More fuzzies. I slammed my fist against the floor. A huge energy wave

exploded throwing down the walls.

Kaezar was sitting down. He got up with a surprised look in his face.

I dashed at him and greeted him with a punch on the face.

Kaezar jumped up and kicked my left knee; as I fell I used my right leg to sweep him

down. We both jumped up to our feet and threw a punch. We both struck our faces. He kicked my

chin and threw me backwards.

I raised myself and dashed at him.

He threw a punch at me. I dodged it and struck him with my elbow on the face. I span and

kicked his chest which sent him flying backwards. As he fell Kaezar took out his sword. A long,

fine thin blade engraved with spells in Latin and a golden hilt. When he fell he disappeared and

appeared right behind me and slashed at me.

I had my sword out, ready for him. Our swords clashed with one another. I punched his

face and slashed at him.

He covered himself with his sword. We stared at each other fierce fully. We continued to

attack each other nonstop; we were both giving all we got. No single word was said.

My body was pushed and pinned against the wall.

Kaezar extended his right arm as he walked towards me. Lightnings came out of his hand

and began to electrocute me. A strange gray energy surrounded him. All the energy gathered at

his sword that pointed at me. A dark gray energy ball was launched at me. As it struck me it

exploded, sending me out of the dojo through the wall towards the snow.

I got up slowly. Kaezar stood before me. I extended my arm and launched a shadow ball

at him. He almost fell backwards. I kicked the ground and a huge boulder rose to mid air and

kicked it, launching it towards him, knocking him over. I raised my hand and a thunder came

from the sky and shocked him. He screamed in pain. I swung my arm. Kaezar‟s body hovered. I

pulled my arm in front of me, grabbed him and launched him to the air. I looked at my right

hand, a large shadow ball was there; I threw it over to him. It exploded as it touched him. A

smoke cloud was created on the air, but no body fell.

I heard movement behind me. I turned quickly ready with a punch, but he beat me to it. I

fell and used my hands to jump up.

Kaezar snapped his fingers and the ground below me exploded. He stomped the floor and

I was raised in mid air. Once more gray energy surrounded his body. He launched at me another

dark energy ball. I stood and crossed my arms. An x shaped fire wave came out of my arms and

towards him.

He ducked as the fire wave passed through him. The flames threw him to the snow where

he stopped the fire on him. He got up and extended his arm towards me. Before he could do

anything I tackled him to the floor.

I rose up and punched him several times on the face.

He pushed me out of the way and we both got up quickly with our arms extended to each

other‟s face.

We stared at each other fierce fully. We both knew this was over, until Kaezar gave me a

glimpse of a smile. The both of us began to laugh out loud. We sat with a quick movement, still

laughing. “Woah!”

“Totally.” We got up and headed inside, both tumbling.

“What a great battle you just gave.”

29

“Yeah, same to you.”

“It was quite amazing, wasn‟t it?” I said as I drank completely a cup of tea that was on

the table in the centre of the dojo.

“Sure. I‟m pretty sure I haven‟t had a battle as fun as this one.”

“You call that fun?”

“Yeah, it was fun. It was very interesting. I‟ve got to say it. I was really impressed to see

you throw down the maze‟s wall, I mean, it was pretty amazing. I didn‟t think it was possible

until you did it. Though I thought you would get to me really quick.”

“How would I?”

He paused a bit. “Nevermind. Well Shadow, you have improved quite a lot. You prove to

me that you are an incredible warrior and an extraordinary Sorcerer.”

“How come I can be good with magic if I, I mean, Shadow was not a wizard, mage or

anything like that?”

“Well, any race can be really good with magic, but half elves are extraordinary magic

users. Remember that Shadow is a half elf, so magic is what you are good at.”

“Yeah, I think it works just fine.” I stood up and passed my hand through my hair. “The

day we met you said that when my training finishes I could be called a warrior sorcerer. You just

called me that.”

Kaezar looked down. “You have really proven yourself, and sure, my training for you is

over, yet, there is one final test, but it will be different and may be deadly. Remember that this

world is real and you are borrowing Shadow‟s body. I do believe we can die during our dreams.

So I‟ve got to ask. Do you think you can do it?”

I looked up what he said did have me thinking. “Yeah, I‟m sure. I want to do it.”

“Very well.” He said. “Tomorrow we‟ll meet and prepare for this test.”

I woke up a bit light headed. As I got up I played in my iPod Mama Cass‘ Make you own

kind of music. I got ready and headed down. I had some breakfast and about three glasses of

milk.

I went to the park where I first met Alice. I sat on a bench in front of the fountain.

―Hey Hector!‖

I turned and saw Alex, my best friend. Alex is eight days younger than me, yet he is

slightly taller. He has short blond curly hair.

―Hey Alex, what‘s up?‖

―Not much, though football season is coming up.‖

―Ready for it?‖

He shrugged. ―Well.., you know I‘m lazy, but I‘m getting in. Got to go; doing some

errands for my mom.‖

―See you later.‖

He walked away.

―Hector!‖ I turned and saw Alice skipping towards me. She threw herself down on the

bench. ―So… What do you want to do today?‖

―I don‘t know… How about some movies?‖

―So this is whom you‘ve been ditching us for?‖

Alice and I turned quickly; Alina and Alida were leaning on the back of the bench.

―Hey! Alice, this is Alina and Alida. Alina, Alida, this is Alice.‖

30

―We‘ve met already.‖ Said Alice.

―I thought you moved here about a week before we met.‖

―So? I met them before I met you.‖

―Oh, she means you are not that special.‖ Said Alina.

―Sorry dear, we got to her first.‖ Said Alida smiling.

―You know, the ditching thing, it was addressed towards both of –‖ Alida elbowed her

sister.

―We should leave these two lovebirds alone.‖

―None sense.‖ I replied.

―I agree.‖ Alice said. ―We should all go out together.‖

―That sounds great. What do you think girls?‖

―We‘d love to.‖ Said Alina. ―So what are we going to do?‖

―Well I was suggesting to Alice some movies at my place.‖

―That sounds great.‖ Alina said. ―Could we pass through Dunkin‘ Donuts and 7-Eleven

before we get to your house?‖

―Always thinking with your stomach sis.‖ Alida said.

―Sure, let‘s go.‖

We arrived at my house with three bags full of goodies and two boxes from DD. ―I guess

we won‘t sleep tonight.‖

―Not with all we got.‖

―So ladies, which movie would you like to see? Genres?‖

―Mystery!‖ Alice exclaimed.

―Yeah! That would be great.‖ One of the twins said.

―So, I‘ve got Fight Club, Psycho, The Shining, Misery, The Pan‘s Labyrinth, Se7en.‖

There was a dispute between the girls. I really didn‘t care, I would like any of the mentioned

movies and I was sure going to have a fun time.

The girls decided on Se7en. Surprisingly I was the only one who had seen it before. Just

as I got the movie on it began to rain.

―Scary.‖ Alice said.

―Don‘t worry dear‖ Alida said. ―The rains are very common here.‖

The day continued very nice. It got dark and they were seriously scared.

―Boo!‖

The three of them screamed with all their might.

―Hector!‖

―You‘re such a jerk!‖

I couldn‘t stop laughing. ―Your screams were priceless!‖ I said laughing.

―Jeez…‖

After an hour or so their parents arrived for them. ―I really hope we see each other

sometime soon.‖

―Yeah, we should.‖

―It was very nice seeing you all.‖

―I agree.‖

―Maybe we could go to the movies.‖

―I like that, we really should.‖

They all left at the same time. It sure was fun to hang out with them.

31

I went up to my room, I looked out my window. I have to admit that the rain did spook

me a bit. Tonight will be my final test with Kaezar and I‘m a bit worried, I have no idea what has

he prepared for me. I wonder what it would be to have a connection with Shadow. Would I really

change that much? If my mind created him, why would he be so different? I laid down and tried

to rest, yet it was difficult. I couldn‘t fall asleep. I looked at the time every minute. I had to

completely clear my mind.

I opened my eyes widely. I was lying on a bed in a wooden room. I jumped up and got out

of the room. I was in the dojo, Kaezar looking out the window.

“You‟re late.”

“Sorry, couldn‟t sleep.”

Kaezar remained silent.

“Any problem?”

“Not at all.” He said. “Come here. I‟ve got something for you.”

I walked over to him.

“I made you this.” He took out something wrapped in some red cloth.

“What is this?” I asked as he gave it to me.

“Open it up.”

I unwrapped the cloth, to find a sword on my hands. The blade was some kind of grayish

blue colour. The hilt was just amazing. The guard had four scaled spikes upwards and two

downwards. The grip was shaped as a serpent‟s body. What impressed me the most was the

pommel. One side of it was a shaped as the head of a dragon and the other side is shaped as the

head of a wolf.

“Kaezar… I can‟t find any way to thank you for it. Its, it is amazing! I can‟t really

describe how I feel.”

“No need to. The blade is made with eternium, a metallic alloy ten times stronger than

adamantium, forged only in the foundries of Hell. The hilt is made out of a rock called celedurus.

It is five times stronger than diamond. It is common in the mines of Solumsomnium.”

“Wow, that‟s quite amazing.”

“Call it however you want, you will need it so much that you won‟t ever find the words to

thank me.”

“So, what‟s next?”

All of the dojo‟s windows shut covered by some wooden blinds.

“If I tell you, it wouldn‟t be a surprise, wouldn‟t it?” We walked towards the dojo‟s door.

He locked the door and took out his silver key. Before he unlocked the door he turned to me.

“Are you completely sure you want to do this?”

I thought a second of what to answer. “Completely sure.”

Kaezar sighed a bit. “The point of no return.” He unlocked the door and opened it.

I got blinded with the heat; it reminded me about my battle with Phoenix. We both got

down from the dojo‟s steps. The sand was red and was somewhat grainy. The dojo vanished

behind us.

“All hope abandon, ye who enter here...”

“So where are we?”

“Welcome, Shadow, to Hell‟s Gates.”

“What?! Are we going to hell?”

32

“No we‟re not; don‟t be stupid, if we went there we would never go out. No. We are

going to stay in the gates and we will fight a demon.”

“Are you kidding me?”

“Not at all.”

“Let‟s go; I mean it!”

“As I said, there is no turning back…”

“So what‟s next?”

“We go further in.”

We walked in silence on a red road. Next to the road were lots of creatures, fighting,

killing each other. It creeped me out, I saw guts all over the road.

“Think of it as a prison, most of them can‟t do anything, so they fight. Either way these

are lesser demons; they aren‟t much of a threat.”

“Why don‟t they attack us?”

“Because they don‟t really care about us, what they care of is to rip their opponents‟

limb by limb.”

“So how do we make sure not to become their opponents?”

“Lay low.”

“Oh yeah, that‟s comforting.”

A demon that looked a lot smaller than the others stood in front of us. This demon had

two red wings covered in flames. He had long white hair. He wore a peach colored scarf

surrounding his neck; it covered his mouth and nose. His hair and the scarf covered most of his

face; the only thing I could see was his white eyes. His chest plate was grey with two large white

eyes, and fangs dropping from the bottom opening of the chest plate. He had shoulder pads that

were skulls. His arms were completely covered in bandages. He had peach colored leather

armlets that covered completely his forearms, spikes coming out of them. He was wearing long

grey leather pants, fangs pointing up at the top opening of the pants. The fangs made the chest

plate and the pants look like a face. He wore a pair of iron boots with spikes at the front and at

the back.

“Kaezar!” The demon exclaimed violently.

“Long time no see, Rage.”

His eyes showed nothing but anger. “Volo meus ultionis!”

“Nos adveho non vobis. Nose s bellator a superus ordo diabolus.”

I stared at them, eager to know what were they talking about.

“Vos mos operor haud talis res insquequo vos pugna mihi!”

“Shut up Rage! Do as told and let us pass!” The demon knelt down and vanished in

flames.

“What was that all about?”

“His name is Rage Leubardy, he is the strongest lesser demon there is. Last time I came

here I fought with him. The encounter was so bad that we both were about to die. To make it

worse I won the fight and I let him live. There is no greater humiliation for a demon than that a

human has pity on them. He was humiliated by me and he is thirsty for vengeance. He work

himself to be the best of his rank, but his encounter with me won‟t be tonight.”

33

We got to a place where the demons looked more like monsters than the ones we had seen

before. “These are high demons. Most of them have horns all over their bodies because they use

them as weapons. No, these are some true killing machines.”

“Are we going to fight one of them?”

“We just need to find the right one.”

We kept on walking forward. The screams of pain and agony made it a difficult trip. The

whole place stentched to blood and death. Kaezar came to a sudden stop. “Do you hear that?”

“Hear what?”

“The chanting.”

“There is no chanting.”

“Follow me!” He said as he began to run.

I dashed behind him, not knowing where we were headed to; the path wasn‟t there

anymore. We passed next to many demons; we got covered in blood as we passed through.

“We are going to get in a fight here.”

“Not just yet. We‟re closing in.”

Behind the screams of pain I began to hear some chanting. His hearing is amazing. We

got to a point where the cheers were really loud and Kaezar came to a sudden stop.

“Looks like we got here at a perfect moment.”

“Why do you say that?”

“It‟s the end of a match.”

I looked over Kaezar. Hundreds of demons were gathering at a coliseum.

We ran over to the coliseum and walked below a grand entrance. Everywhere was full of

huge demons.

“Adramelech! Adramelech! Adramelech! Adramelech! Adramelech! Adramelech!

Adramelech!” That was what the demons were chanting.

Two demons were fighting in the arena. One of them was huge, a lot bigger than the

ones we had seen before. He had humongous wings with a dark blue color. His head was a skull

with two large horns twisted from the tips; two more coming out from the back of his jaw. His

head and horns were some kind of platinum color, as well as his arms, chest, abs, legs and his

giant hooves. The rest of his body was the same color as the wings.

The other wasn‟t very complicated. He was huge, kind of like a grey Hulk but with horns

coming from his limbs.

“Adramelech is the scary looking one. The gray hulk is named Golith. Golith doesn‟t

stand a chance against Adramelech.”

“Why not?”

“Golith only fights with his brothers, if he is alone, that means that they are all dead. He

is as good as dead too.”

Golith grabbed Adramelech from the back; he jumped backwards and threw him to the

ground. Golith fell on top of him and began to punch Adramelech savagely on the face. Blood

bursted everywhere; maybe Kaezar was wrong, maybe Golith did had a chance. Golith jumped

away, his hands were soaked in blood; he had an expression of pain.

“That isn‟t Adramelech‟s blood isn‟t it?”

“You guessed right. Do you see the platinum parts of his body?”

“Yeah, what about them?”

“Well, they are eternium.”

“How could that be possible? Isn‟t eternium forged in hell?”

34

“That‟s right… The eternium was forged on him, creating an indestructible creature.”

“Then how do we kill it?”

“We destroy his armor.”

“That will be easy.”

Golith grabbed Adramelech‟s legs and span around. He let go, sending him towards the

crowd. Golith raised his arms for some cheering.

Adramelech rose and used his huge wings to propel himself against Golith. Adramelech‟s

horns went through Golith‟s body. He raised his body up, lifting Golith in the air with his head.

“Where do you want him?” He said in a low pitch harsh tone. “Tell me where!” The crowd

cheered really load. He took Golith‟s body off his horns and launched it at some demons close to

us, covering us all in blood.

Kaezar stood still and smiled.

“Who is next?”Adramelech raised his arms as the crowd cheered. “Who dares to

challenge me?!”

Kaezar patted my shoulder. “That‟s our call.”

“What?” He jumped over to the arena. I jumped behind him and the audience shared a

long laugh.

Adramelech turned over to us. He laughed as well as the crowd. “Two small humans will

be absolutely no match for me!”

“Then you‟ll have no problem with fighting us, will you?” Kaezar said fierce fully.

“Why would I, the most powerful of high demons, loose my time fighting of two insects?”

The crowd went silent as he spoke; he brought fear only with his words.

“You‟re condemned to an eternity in hell, so time is no matter of discussion. My guess is

that you are afraid of us.” Talking like that will sure get him killed someday.

Adramelech dashed towards us and stopped right before us. “You are a repulsive blind

vermin, how dare you speak like that to me? Prepare to meet your fate!”

He stomped with his fist over Kaezar. The crowd began to cheer again. A dirt cloud was

formed where he struck.

"Kaezar!" I screamed hoping he wasn't harmed. The dust cloud disappeared;

Adramelech's fist was clutched to the ground meanwhile Kaezar stood next to it.

"I'll be damned, that would've been a nasty strike; oh wait, you missed me."

Adramelech tried to free his hand from the ground.

A grayish energy circled around Kaezar's body creating an energy ball at his hand which

he launched at the demon, sending him flying against the audience.

"We need to distract him, sever his unprotected areas, specially his back, then, we will

need to figure out how to destroy his armour."

"Got it."

I heard a whisper inside my head. <<Why should you do as he says? Do whatever you

think will kill him faster.>> I shook my head and ignored that thought.

Adramelech dashed at us; Kaezar kicked the ground and a huge boulder rose up from the

floor.

I ran towards it, jumped and kicked it, sending it against Adramelech and knocking him

over. I stood next to Kaezar and pulled both my hands behind me, dark energy balls began to

form in them. Kaezar held his hand forward and a yellow energy sphere formed in his hand.

35

As soon as Adramelech stood up I pushed my arms forward and launched my energy

beams at the same time Kaezar launched his. Our beams collided; the two dark beams circled

the yellow one and struck Adramelech as one, sending him flying to the coliseum's walls.

"Not bad at all."

"I should say that I'm quite impressed."

"If we continue like this, we sure have a chance."

"Of course we — Look out!"

Adramelech struck me with the back of his hand and sent me flying against the arena's

walls. He then punched Kaezar sending him against another wall.

"There is no such thing as a chance against me!" He grabbed Kaezar with both hands

and began to crush Kaezar's body.

Kaezar screamed with the top of his lungs.

I took out the sword he had given me before coming to Hell's Gates and threw it at

Adramelech. The sword went into Adramelech's eye socket.

He let go Kaezar and screamed in pain. I jumped on his head, grabbed the sword's hilt

and twisted it around while he tried to take it off.

I took it out and jumped behind him, I began to slash his back several times. Thick purple

blood covered me as I slashed him. One of the slashes cut off his left wing and he let out a

horrifying scream of pain.

He turned and punched me, sending me backwards.

Kaezar went towards me and helped me up. "What a perfect use of the ethereal sword.

Let me handle him for a moment, I think I already know how to damage his armor."

Kaezar raised his hands and a stone pillar came out of the ground under Adramelech

trapping him inside it, leaving out only his head. He lowered his hands quickly and the pillar

exploded throwing him to the ground. Before Adramelech could stand up, two thunders fell from

the sky and electrocuted him. Kaezar jumped high over him. In the air he closed his right fist and

a blue fire like energy covered his entire arm. He took a straight downward dive; the energy took

form of a giant eagle and a hunting screech was heard. A white light explosion appeared as his

fist encountered Adramelech's chest.

A cracking sound pained everybody's ears. Both Kaezar and Adramelech spat out blood.

The whole audience went silent, all astonished by what was happening. Kaezar jumped away

holding his wrist.

"That was amazing!" I said to him instantly.

"Not at all." He said. "I did nothing to his armour."

"What?!"

Adramelech stood up and began to laugh. "You can't go through me eternium armor. So

there is no way you can defeat me!" He said laughing.

Kaezar looked down; he was hurt and I didn't know how bad it was.

I took out my sword and dashed at Adramelech; he tried to punch me but I used my sword

as a shield to guard off his attacks. I slash at him several times, surprisingly my sword left tiny

cracks on his chest.

"Impossible..."

I spun and cut his hand off. He screamed in pain.

"This is impossible, you can't cut eternium!" His arm bled crazily.

My sword was light as a feather but sharper than anything I had ever seen, there was no

way I could lose.

36

<<Butcher that diabolic son of a bitch like he deserves to.>> The voice in my head was

right, I needed to kill him.

I tried to slash him a few more times but he blocked my sword with his other arm and

punched me away. The sword fell off my hands. I stood up and launched an energy beam at him.

He didn't even budge, but his armor cracked more. I clenched my fist and punched his stomach.

It hurt like hell. I heard a cracking sound; there goes my hand, until I realized that Adramelech

was bleeding. I had my hand inside his armor.

I used a strong shadow bolt and sent him flying away. The crowd cheered loudly.

"Hurray for the new champions!"

"Adramelech has fallen!"

Kaezar stood in front of Adramelech's corpse and began to pray.

"And shepherds we shall be, for thee my lord for thee. Power hath descended forth from

thy hand, our feet may swiftly carry out thy command. So we should flow a river forth to thee,

teaming with souls shall it ever be. In nomine patri et fili et spiritu sancti." Adramelech's body

burnt and disappeared.

"We should go now." He said as he turned at me.

My body was trembling; I couldn't stop it.

"Shadow? Are you all right?"

<<Kill them, kill them all!>>

"Ahh!" A gigantic energy wave exploded from my body.

When I opened my eyes the coliseum was gone along with hundreds of demons that were

part of the audience. There were many corpses and most demons were really hurt. They all

stared at me and walked towards us with rage. Kaezar got in front of me and crossed his arms.

"Terra sancti et vivre, Solumsomnium teleporte!"

Kaezar punched me in the face throwing me to the floor.

“What the fuck was that?!”

“What are you talking about?!”

“You know perfectly what I‟m talking about! The god damn energy wave!”

“I don‟t know, it just happened.”

“Just happened?! Do you know in what kind of mess you‟ve gotten into? Now you have

hundreds of high and lesser demons on your ass plus the real demons for that kind of disorder.

We are only allowed to kill while in a fight in the arena. You killed hundreds of non fighting

demons!”

“Look, I told you, I had no control on it, it happened all of a sudden.”

Kaezar passed his hand through his hair. “Calm down Kaezar, calm down.” He said to

himself. “Very well then, we‟ll have to deal with that later. On the other hand, I would like to

congratulate you for the extraordinary fight you just gave.” He extended his hand and I reached

for his. “I feel proud to have fought at your side Shadow.”

“Same here Kaezar; thank you for everything.”

“Till we meet again my friend.”

“Till we meet again.”

I didn't know what to think when I woke up. I was startled; the fight was pretty intense, I

don't really know what happened at the end. I really didn't had control over myself when I

exploded into that energy wave.

37

My head began to ache. I sat down on my bed. On my night stand was The Book of

Legends. I hadn't even looked at it in while. I got up and went downstairs for a glass of water and

two aspirins.

I went up and intro my room. I grabbed the Book of Legends and opened it right in the

middle. Surprisingly it was text in the book. My eyes widen and I almost dropped the book.

What surprised me the most was not the writings in the book but the text itself. It was not

in the same runes as before, but in the roman alphabet. All the pages were filled with some Latin.

Sadly I didn't know any Latin.

I opened it back to the first page. Maybe if I read something I could maybe understand a

bit or remember it long enough to tell it to McKratey.

"EGO hic scisco creptio sumo imperium Deus' mos quod tribuo mihi suus ops attero

redimio iacio in per nostrum maiores cerno orbis terrarum ut is eram notus pro. In nomen of

senior EGO vis vos accerso nos tegum quis is universitas adsuesco assuesco exsisto per effrego

vomica relictus per humanus insectum quisnam abutor nostrum mundus. Refero vox of

Mortisangelux ut tribuo eternus vita ut suus veneficus quod dominatus super orbirs terrarum per

caecus vox."

A blinding light came out of the book. The ground began to shake violently; I let go of

the book and fell on the ground. I stuck my head with my night stand and lost conscience.

38

CHAPTER 3: THE UNION

Where am I? It was completely dark. I heard water dripping from far away, a hollow

space.

Two torches lit up behind me. I turned quickly and saw a wooden door with a small

window, blocked by some metal bars.

I ran towards the door and grabbed tightly from the poles. "Hey!" I screamed from the

bottom of my lungs. "Hey! Can anybody hear me?! Hey!"

"No one can hear you."

I turned around quickly; my heart was beating extremely fast.

"I never thought we were going o come here again."

"It can't be possible... I must be dreaming..."

"I can assure you that it is possible. And if you were dreaming we would be one and that

door wouldn't be there any longer."

I felt his presence, his breath, the warmth of his body. Shadow Realm in flesh was

standing before me. I couldn't believe my eyes. He looks just like me; it was like talking to a

mirror. "Where are we?" I asked snapping back to my senses.

"Why don't you take a look around and tell me?" Two more torches lit up behind Shadow.

He took a step to a side. It was still dark but everything was visible now.

It was like a dungeon room with stone floorings and stone walls. At the center of the

room there were two wooden poles in the shape of an x with chains at the edges.

My heart rushed and began to panic. A torture room perhaps? "I've got no idea."

"Take a closer look." I looked around once more. I was about to answer him with an 'I

don't know' when I noticed at the center of the room, under the x. A stone dais with an emblem.

An emblem that looked so familiar. My eyes widen when I realized where we were. "It can't

be..."

Shadow took a step towards the center of the room. "This used to be my cell inside the

Shadow Temple. Do you remember Hector? The first time you dreamed of me was in this very

same room."

I was astonished. I had been here only once, when I first dreamed of Shadow. "How can

this be possible?"

"All this begins with your friend McKratey."

"What does he have to do with this?"

"He gave you that god damned book to begin with! He harvested your imagination for his

own good."

"How could it be for his own good?"

"Well, he isn't human at all. He is a Púca, a shape shifting creature from Celtic folklore.

These small creatures use their abilities with riddles and knowledge to trick anyone to do his or

her will."

"That can't be true, none of those things exists on earth!"

"Everything that exists in Solumsomnium exists on earth as well; it just remains hidden.

McKratey had that book in its possession for over a thousand years, looking for the one who

could see the text."

"Why would he need someone who could read it?"

"To do this, what you're doing. He wants to make the world what it used to be."

"Which is what, exactly?" I interrupted.

39

"Solumsomnium and earth used to be a single world. Everything that exists on

Solumsomnium and everything that exists on earth existed when they were one. The

Mortisangelux was a civilization protected by angels; fallen angels. The angles shared with them

with them the power of creation and of will. The Mortisangelux soon thought of anything that

was different from them as a threat; so they had to dispose of it. They wrote the Book of Legends

as a record of what were they going to do with the power to do with the power of the fallen

angels had granted them. They wrote binding spells targeting angels, as they were thought to see

them as enemies by the fallen ones. The fallen angels, even though they were who taught them

everything. Elves, trolls, vampires, lycans, witches, warlocks, everything that it is now

considered as magical. When they casted the spell the world suffered drastic changes in size,

land and water. They thought they had destroyed all of this. They were wrong. Some of these

beings managed to survive and have remained hidden ever since. Soon the Mortisangelux

realized that their spell didn't destroy this, but send it to another dimension. They learned about

this through their dreams. They traveled there while they slept. That is why they named it

Solumsomnium. The land of dreams."

I was shocked by all this I was hearing. "Then why would Púca want to bring the worlds

together?"

"The Púca must of been one of the survivors of when the Mortisangelux casted the spell.

My guess is that he is out for vengeance."

"How exactly could he achieve that? The Mortisangelux died thousands of years ago,

didn't they?"

"He might not be looking for direct revenge, but to what they created. Think about it. The

humans from earth will never survive if the two worlds were brought together."

"You're right!" I said astonished. "I must stop this immediately!"

"I'm afraid you can't to do that anymore. You have already cast the spell to join together

our worlds. I just took this opportunity to explain to you what was about to happen." He made a

dramatic pause. "And I also wanted to ask for your help."

"My help?" I interrupted. "Why would you need my help for? You're Shadow Realm for

god's sake.! You've even killed demons!"

"I'm going to stop this; separate our worlds and destroy that book with or without your

help. But without you I will only posses half my power."

I remained silent but kept on staring at him. What is this? A game? A dream? Reality.

"What I'm about to face will make your dreams look like playground games. There are no

turning backs, no second chances, no waking ups. Kill or be killed. Now; will you help me or

not?" He looked so confident. He looked so serious. He looked somehow I could never be seen.

"How exactly do you plan to do all that?"

He looked down. Doubt? This was the first glimpse of uncertainty since his time here. "I

don't know. It is thought that in order to cast again an original spell you need the help of a real

Mortisangelux or at least a direct descendant. It is just a theory. I will try to gather the help of

every possible element yet I'm not sure if it will work."

I looked around myself. Thinking. It's a dangerous road up ahead. I wasn't sure if I was

ready for it. "I will do it." I said with no hesitation.

"Very well then." Shadow held my hand and his body began to shine. "Just remember.

When you wake up, it will all be real. Fear death if it is necessary. All means to undo this

curse."

"You would never fear death."

40

"Of course I would never do." He winked his left eye and the light left me blind.

The ground was still shaking when I woke up. I was laying next to my bed. I touched my

head where it hit the nightstand. No blood, but it most definitely hurt.

I stumbled up and walked carefully downstairs.

―Hector!‖ It was my brother who was outside.

I went over to him. ―Dad called. He is with mom. They told me to meet them at our

grandparents.‖

The quakes had seized by now. ―Go ahead. I‘ve got some things to do.‖

―Don‘t take too long, you know how mom gets when it shakes.‖

I dashed at McKratey's store as soon as I could. There was a strong wind. The clouds

were circling all over the sky. The clouds were in so many different dark colors. Some were blue,

others purple and some even a strong pink color. Amazing.

Just before I got to the shop I fell to my knees and covered my ears. An extremely strong

low pitched whistling sound began. I wanted so much to tear my ears off to stop this agonizing

pain. Lots of voices went into my head and pounded on my skull. The ground began to shake

again, this time a lot more violently than before.

I got up and took heavy, well thought steps towards the door. A large crack opened right

before my step. "Mr. McKratey!" I screamed from the bottom of my lungs. "Mister McKratey!" I

heard a malevolent laughter; it sent a shiver down my spine. A shadow figure walked out the

door. It was McKratey.

He was different from any other time I've met him. He was his normal self on one side.

And on the other... A shadow. Scars on it, cat like eyes, pointed sharp teeth with a grin that

reached to his ear. There was a horrible laughter, even though his lips were not moving I knew it

came from him.

"You little mischievous curious fucker. I've got to thank you. If it wasn't for you this

wouldn't be possible." He laughed out loud, with the same motionless face. "This is not like in

your dreams. Here you are not the hero. Don't try to stop it, you just can't. I made you. I gave you

that imagination you so much value. You're nothing. You are shit!"

I stared at him speechless. I was completely blank. Could it be true? Was it really him

who opened the door to what I care about the most? Maybe it's true... It was all him. I fell to my

knees. The ground was shaking so much, not to strong but very long. A really loud roar made me

fumble to the ground.

"Coming my dear. Got to go Hector. I have a meeting I have been dying for, for over two

thousand years!"

I sat on the shaking ground and saw McKratey enter the book store, where more loud

roars came from. The whole bookstore blew up in pieces. A body fell next to me. A small

creature that looked like one of McKratey's sides. It was him.

A strange creature came out of the smoke cloud. It had a curved back, a small torso, two

long legs, two short arms and a face just like the Púca that laid next to me. I began to panic.

<<Don't be afraid. You can do it.>> I stood up, fists closed, teeth clenched.

The beast roared at me. This is suicide. It dashed at me and I dashed at it.

As I dashed I felt something change. I felt stronger, faster. I felt more confident. I jumped

and punched it in the face. The creature was launched against a building. It is real, my strength is

above limits. I looked down at myself. I was wearing two large brown boots, silver leggings. A

41

royal blue and purple jacket wrapped on my waist with a brown belt over it. A dark gray shirt

with a chain mail vest under it. I am Shadow Realm.

The creature jumped over me, tried to bite me. I couldn't push it away. I grabbed on to

my sword and thrust into its chest. The Púca like thing jerked away and howled in pain. I got up

and rose my palm facing her. A small energy sphere formed in my hand and launched a thin

energy beam that threw it to its back. It may have just been a small charge but the sensation, the

tickling that travels through your arm and the energy gathering made this so incredible. I sprinted

over to the creature, grabbed the sword and sliced it in a half.

I felt my body relax. I could hear sirens and crashes from far. The ground had stopped

shaking, but clearly something was different. Trees grew where some buildings stood; small hills

and slopes appeared all around. The air was not so breathable, it was full of dirt and it was heavy.

I began to hear gunshots. Chaos was starting to take over people.

I ran to where I heard the gun shots. The street I was running in was barricaded with

military posts.

―Look! There‘s another one!‖

I came to a complete stop when the soldiers looked towards me. One of them began to

fire at me. I ran out of the street behind a building. Why would they attack me? The first thing

that came to me was my clothing, but even though it was different it wouldn‘t be enough for

soldiers to shoot at someone. I gave it a moment of thought and my ears twitched. That‘s right.

My ears were what gave me away. I was Shadow Realm. My elven ears were completely visible

to anyone. From where I was I could hear what the soldiers at barracks were saying.

―Where are we taking the survivors?‖

―There is an encampment five miles south of the city, where all the citizens can stay.‖

―I‘ll take them there right away.‖

―Dismissed.‖

So people are getting moved into a secure place. I hope my family is there. Sorry mom,

I‘ve got some things to do.

I ran over to my house. I needed to grab a hold of the book and if I can, find Kaezar. A

forest had grown all over the city. I was lost, it was very hard to get to my street but I finally did.

―What?‖ All the houses at my street were destroyed.

I fell to my knees. The only place I‘ve felt safe, comfortable, at home was my room and it

was gone. I ran through the remains of my house. The book was nowhere to be seen. Someone

looked for it and found it in my house.

I must find Kaezar but the idiot never told me where to find him and even less with our

two worlds merged together.

We may not have a lot of time and I‘m just standing here. I felt a small gust directing to

the west. Something wanted me to go west, something inside me. I jumped up and ran towards

that direction. The city was almost gone, covered by trees and ran not only by me but by some

large wild animals.

I ran and ran not knowing where to stop; I just knew that I had to keep on running. It was

until I found myself familiarized with my surroundings. This was Eternity Forest, I‘m

completely sure of it.

Another small gust brushed my hair forward, so gentle, so precise.

―Hello Brizza.‖

―Hello, my dear Shadow.‖

42

I turned to watch one of the two problems from my dreams. ―What are you doing here?‖

―Well it appears we got a hold of the situation faster than you did so I‘m just here to take

you with me.‖

I stood in a fighting position. ―I would like to see you try.‖

Brizza smiled and with a blink of an eye she was in front of me, inches away. ―it will be

easy.‖ She punched me in the stomach, so hard it was hardly believable.

It hurt, obviously, more than in my dreams. I fell to my knees. ―It won‘t be as easy as you

think.‖

A slap crossed my face. I looked back at her and she punched me in the same direction. I

looked back at her and smiled as blood dripped from my lips.

―What are you smiling at?‖

―You are so predictable.‖

She frowned at me. ―How bout you predict this!‖ She thrust her dagger into my chest.

My eyes widen and my mouth opened. Then I burst into laughter. No blood came out of

my wound.

―What?‖ Her eyes showed astonishment.

―What are you surprised for? Nice trick huh?‖ I smiled. My body vanished and

reappeared behind Brizza, launched a beam at her back and sent her flying against a tree. I

wouldn‘t feel comfortable hitting her, she‘s a human, a woman, how disrespectful would it be if I

hit her? The problem is, I would need to separate that feeling from the happening very soon or it

will get me killed.

Brizza got up and raised her hand and a strong gust sent me against a tree. She threw her

daggers at me; they entered both shoulders of mine. ―Wind Blades.‖

My arms and face got covered in cuts. ―Terracado...‖ I whispered under my breath. The

ground below Brizza exploded, she fell and before she hit the ground a rock pillar grew begore

her, struck her and threw her to the grass.

I pushed myself away from the tree, and took both daggers from my shoulders.

―Augh...‖ Brizza grunted as she tried to get up.

I sat up and launched a small yellow energy sphere at her. When the sphere touched her it

created an explosion that sent us both flying away. I pushed myself up. God. I can‘t really

measure my power.

Brizza was still laying on the ground. I saw Brizza trying to get up. Her cloak was almost

all torn off, bruises all over her body. I stood up and grabbed my sword and walked over to her.

Is this how my problem will end? Divide and Conquer. That‘s what they say.

She turned over and saw me standing next to her. Her eyes showed fear. I could kill her

right now, but something didn‘t let me. It was fear. Not only her‘s but mine as well, this is real

life, not just a dream, I would be taking a life away. Still If I don‘t get her she‘ll get me. I held

the sword tightly. Let it be over.

I felt how someone punched me across the face. I fell to the ground next to Brizza.

Lumina stood in front of me. She looked like a knight with a shining armour coming to rescue

her sister.

Lumina helped her sister up. ―Perfect timing.‖

―Saw everything, just waited for the best timing.‖

I stood up and glared at them. ―End of chit chat.‖ I extended my arms towards their feet.

Two dark light pillars emerged from the ground surrounding them into a painful burning.

43

Both of them began to scream in pain but in just a few seconds they stopped. The two

pillars disappeared and they were gone.

A giggle behind caught my attention. I turned around and saw them standing next to a

tree. Brizza looked wounded but Lumina just had a few bruises.

―Both our elements are everywhere. They can‘t be trapped in something so simple. We

are everywhere Shadow. You can‘t stop us.‖ Lumina raised her hands as if she was holding a

bow. A shimmering light glow on her hands. A majestic white bow with a leather grip and red

silk ribbon tied to the top tip of the bow. A long beautiful white arrow with a metal head

appeared on the bow.

The bow and arrow were so magnificent that I stood motionless. Lumina pulled the string

backwards and released the arrow which flew gracefully and bright into my leg. ―Ahh!‖ The

arrow entered deep into my leg. The wound lit up with bright light stinging me like poison.

Is it supposed to hurt like this or does it hurt me like this because our elements are exactly

the opposite? Both of them laughed at me. I pulled the arrow out my leg. I cursed once. My leg

began to feel numb, that was when I thought something to do. I used a tree to get myself up.

I raised my arm forward. A thunder of dark energy fell before me into my hand. I pulled

out a ghastly looking weapon. A large curved metallic framed bow. A dragon skull with a cold

consuming stare covered where my hand held the bow. The frame was detailed as scales and

horns giving it the morbid look of it once being alive. Normally something like this would steal

my attention just like it did with the twins, but it didn‘t.

The bow came so natural to me that I not even took my time to notice the bow had no

string to pull nor arrow to shoot yet I pointed the bow at Lumina and made a movement like if

pulling an arrow backwards and letting go of it.

A dark colored arrow was launched; as it stuck Lumina she was thrown backwards

spinning in the air engulfed with darkness.

Brizza looked scared as she saw her sister fall movement less to the ground. I launched

an arrow towards her. The arrow went through her body just like if it would go into water.

Brizza‘s body disappeared.

I dropped the bow as I felt pain rush down my back. Brizza‘s dagger went into my back. I

fell to my knees and was kicked under my chin. The kick threw me back but before I fell a strong

gust threw me against a boulder. I slowly opened my eyes and grunted.

Brizza was walking towards me while her sister was still down. I could see rage in

Brizza‘s eyes. She raised her arm towards me. My body was pressed against the rock. Blood

dripped from my nose and cuts. ―You‘ve been a real pain Shadow! Anyone in our place would

have killed you already, but, we can‘t.‖

I stared at her. ―Why?‖ I asked surprised.

She began to hesitate. ―I...I do --― The ground beneath her exploded. She was sent flying

away and I was released from her wind grip.

I could breathe correctly now. What had just happen?

Brizza struggled to get up. ―Damn you Shadow...‖

It was strange. I was sure that I didn‘t do that, it wasn‘t like the time in Hell‘s Gates.

There was another explosion next to Brizza. I was still on my knees when a golden iron boot

stepped next to me.

―Here.‖ An arm was extended towards me. He stood mighty, tall and strong.

―Phoenix. Boy I‘m glad to see you.‖ I said as I got a hold of my brother‘s hand. He

helped me up.

44

―Eat this.‖ He said giving me a bean like item.

―What is it?‖

―A concentrated phoenix tear.‖

I ate the tear and recovered all my strength. The cuts and bruises disappeared.

―Guess I came in the best moment huh?‖ A ray of light threw Phoenix against a tree.

With a smile. ―This will be fun.‖

Lumina stood next to Brizza as Phoenix stood by me. The twins looked tired and hurt

while my brother and I were fresh and strong.

―This will be easy.‖ Phoenix said while taking out his sword.

―Be careful.‖

―How bad could i--― Phoenix was launched back by Brizza and Lumina jumped me and

pushed me over.

When I touched the ground I launched a shadow ball at her. She was thrown back to the

ground. I rose and clutched my hand and felt a great energy run through my arm. I dashed with

the Ethereal Sword in my hand. I slashed at her. By that time she had her sword out already. She

slashed at me and cut me through my chest.

I slashed at her again. She jumped backwards evading my sword. She stood upon a rock

with so much confidence and grace that I almost missed the blood that dripped from her hand.

―You are hurt Lumina, you won‘t be able to continue.‖

―Shut up!‖ She dashed at me with rage.

I extended my arm at her. ―Umbra, excipio.‖ Her shadow embraced her limbs, extended

them and raised her to the air.

She screamed as she struggled to break free.

―Try all you want, you won‘t be able to break free.‖

She kept on struggling. ―Let me go!‖

I shook my head an turned to see how Phoenix was doing. He still looked fresh and with

strength meanwhile Brizza looked tired and hurt, just like her sister. ―I‘ll make this easy on you

Lumina. Why are you after me?‖

Lumina remained silent and struggled to escape.

I clenched my hand into a fist.

She screamed in pain.

―Why are you after me?‖

She let her head fall. ―We were ordered to.‖

―By who?‖

She remained silent.

I pulled my arm down and she began to scream again. <<There is no reason for this, kill

her!>> ―Who sent you?‖

―I will not tell you!‖

<<Punish her!>> I launched her away with a ray of darkness. She fell and stayed still.

She was bleeding, hurt and breathed heavily. <<Finish her! Kill her now!>> That voice in my

head, thundered in my ears. <<Kill her now or she will kill you!>> The voice was right. If I

didn‘t kill her she will kill me. <<Do it now!>> I grabbed my sword and walked over to her. I

couldn‘t stand the voice anymore. It had to stop. <<Now!>> I thrust the sword into the ground

right next to Lumina.

―Why? Why didn‘t you kill me?‖

45

―Because I aint no murder and I need answers.‖ I turned to Phoenix and he was alone.

―Where is she?‖

He remained silent. Phoenix raised his hand quickly as if he was about to grab something.

Brizza‘s body materialized, Phoenix‘s grip on her neck. Phoenix with his free hand took out his

sword.

―Phoenix don‘t!‖

He stopped right before the sword went through her. ―Why?‖

―I need them both.‖

―I don‘t like it, but I‘ll trust you.‖ He threw Brizza next to her sister.

―Phoenix, got any tears left?‖

―You aint planning to give them some do you?‖

―Just give me one.‖

He threw at me a tear which I broke into two. ―here, eat this.‖ I said handing a half to

each. ―It will give you enough strength to move but not enough to fight.‖

―Why are you doing this? Why don‘t you kill us?‖

―I want you to take me with who sent you here.‖

The twins shared a look and ate the tear. They got up with all their bruises and cuts gone.

―Follow us.‖ Lumina said.

―It will be a long walk.‖ Continued Brizza/ They began to walk into the forest, Phoenix

and I walked behind them.

Snow began to fall on the wide forest. "Snow?" I did not worry about this, but the twins

seemed to enjoy it. What worried me was their mischievous smile; I still don't trust them, at least

Phoenix was here with me but apparently he felt uncomfortable with the snow.

As time passed the change in the temperature was impossible to ignore. All the ground

around us was covered with snow.

I heard a small crunching sound behind me. I turned around quickly towards Phoenix, the

air around us became hot, catching the twin's attention.

A small fire aura surrounded my brother completely melting the snow around him.

"What? I don't like snow." Difficult to miss though, he is a fire elemental after all. I smiled at

Phoenix and looked at Brizza so she could lead us.

Her smile was gone, something was wrong. Lumina began guiding us.

The walk was long and silent, at least not so cold thanks to Phoenix.

Every so and then the twins shared a few laughs. Little by little everything was beginning

to be more visible. The density of the forest was decreasing.

All of a sudden the twins began to run. Phoenix and I followed them at high speed. Why

would they run? They have no chance against both of us.

I saw how at great speed the density of the forest disappeared. Just as they began to run

they came to a stop.

"We..." Lumina said.

Brizza turned to us with a smirk.

Behind them the woods were gone, what remained was a large snowed valley with what

looked like a huge castle in the center.

"Follow us." Brizza said in a tempting soothing voice.

Phoenix came up to me just as we started walking. "Should we listen to them?"

"That's the best we have until now."

46

"We are heading towards the castle... I don't think it is a good idea. What we should do

now is attack them while we can."

"Slow it down Phoenix, remember, that attitude has given you many problems."

"Do not talk to me about problems Shadow; it is you who they seek."

"And we are about to find out why, so do nt screw this up!"

It appears that Phoenix wasn't happy with my choice about following the twins. I

understand perfectly why he reacted that way, I don't agree with my own opinion.

"Stop!"

I felt like being pulled sharply. "What?!"

Lumina was holding my arm tightly. "Watch your step."

I looked quickly to my foot. It was on the edge of a ravine that seemed endless. I opened

my eyes in surprise and slowly turned to see Lumina. "Thanks..."

"We are currently in a position where we need you alive."

I looked at Lumina with contempt and a bit of concern. They need me alive, something is

very wrong. Lumina had my arm still tight in her hands. "Lumina... Could you?"

"Oh! I'm sorry..." She slowly let go of my arm.

I looked up slowly at the castle, it was enormous. Apparently made of glass, with large

columns and towers, details in every corner of it. There was a large narrow bridge to the center

of the ravine where the great castle settled.

"This way." Said Brizza as they walked across the bridge.

Just as we got on the bridge Lumina stopped me.

"Look at the bottom of the gorge." The way down seemed to be endless.

"What about it?"

The two of them stared at Phoenix.

"Oh..." Phoenix disappeared the fire aura around him. The weather turned cold once

more.

We walked slowly along the narrow bridge. The road seemed almost as long as the path

we took through the woods to get here.

We crossed a large archway with a clock above and reached a large doorway. Phoenix

and I stopped as we reached the door, however Brizza and Lumina kept on walking, about to

crash into the doors. Moments before crashing the doors opened. Phoenix and I continued behind

them. Next to the doors stood two huge guards with a gigantic ice armor that covered them from

head to toes.

"Do not fear them. They can't move unless told by Krystal."

"And who is this Krystal?" Phoenix asked before I did.

"Krystal is the queen of this frozen land."

"And what does she want with us?"

"She wants nothing with you but with your brother. You can be her toy if you like."

Lumina Laughed.

"Oh you'll pay for that!" Phoenix's fist got covered in flames.

Lumina and Brizza turned as if to confront him.

I stood next to my brother waiting for them. By this time we were in a huge room where

an incredible crystal throne was found.

Lumina raised her hand towards us.

"Stop!" Called out a melodic voice.

47

We all turned at the same time. It was a beautiful woman, approximately my age. She

stood at the room's entrance. The girl wore brown boots that reached a little over her thighs. A

short pink dress that reached a little over her boots, a thin jacket with long sleeves. Her black hair

was worn loose with a small crown.

"That is no way to treat our guests, Lumina, Brizza."

Both of them knelt facing her. "Our apologize, my queen."

Krystal walked towards them. "Once again Lumina..." She smiled. "I'm a princess."

"We're sorry Lady Krystal, but you know that we will treat you as what you are."

Krystal crossed her arms while the twins rose and smiled. She looked past the twins

towards us and smiled; maybe because of our confused look. She skipped towards us and

stopped just before me with our noses almost touching. "So you are the famous Shadow Realm

right?" Emphasizing on the you.

"And you are the one who wants me dead, right?"

She smiled, wrapped her arms around my neck and kissed my cheek. Her hand was so

warm but her fingers and nails were piercing cold. "And who is he?" She asked curiously

looking at Phoenix.

"My name is Phoenix, I'm Shadow's brother and a fire elemental."

Krystal had a surprised look. "Brother? Fire elemental? What a surprise! Never had I

imagine to have your brother here and it is kind of strange that he is a fire element being yours

the shadows." She shot me a smile. "Brizza, tell Xavi to put an extra plate on the table."

"As you wish, my princess." Brizza vanished in the air.

Krystal turned to us again. "Come on, we're having dinner ."

Phoenix and I didn't move as she skipped to Lumina. "This was your plan all from the

beginning wasn't it?"

Krystal and Lumina turned to us; Lumina turned curiously to Krystal. Krystal smiled

mischievously. "Honestly... It was. I knew Brizza and Lumina were going to bring you here one

way or another, but I never thought it would be this way, I really underestimated you. Now, let‘s

have some dinner." She said with a big smile.

The temperature turned burning hot."We ain't going nowhere!" Phoenix's hand burned in

flames.

"Phoenix, don't."

"Just because you're Shadow's brother I'll give you a chance. I wouldn't recommend you

to do that."

"Or what?" Phoenix threw a fireball to Krystal.

"Dreamer boy..." Krystal raised her hand freezing the fireball.

Lumina came close to me and pulled me backwards. "It would be better if we don't get

involve."

"I agree with you."

Krystal formed an ice sphere on her hand. "Snow fight?" Krystal threw the ice ball to

Phoenix.

He raised his hand and melted. All the water drops turned into tiny ice fragments that

dashed at Phoenix. Most of them penetrated his massive armor. Phoenix charged another fireball

but before he could launch it a crystal javelin went through his chest. Krystal's speed is

incredible for that little girl's body.

"Warrior princess right?"

"Since I met her."

48

Brizza came behind us. "I can't leave you for a minute without you starting a fight."

Phoenix looked extremely tired and Krystal looked with so much tranquility. Phoenix

broke the javelin and threw it to her.

Krystal swiftly moved out of the way with a spin. When she finished she had a fireball in

front of her. She raised her hand and an ice wall protected her from the fireball.

"I'm tired of this!" A huge ball of fire was created in my brother's hand.

This moment I remembered how much pain his pyroblast.

Phoenix's eyes were fire red. "Take this!"

Krystal stomped the floor fiercely. A strong crushing sound was heard across the room.

The castle began to shake and a crack from Krystal's feet over to Phoenix. A bright light blinded

me and the twins. Another crunch was heard followed by a shining sound.

When we got our sight back we saw something stunning. Phoenix was found standing

frozen solid with the fireball, frozen as well, barely leaving his hand. Phoenix, even frozen, had a

hatred look in his eyes. He was indeed an extraordinary warrior and only a few people could

defeat him but no one as fast and humiliating as she did.

Krystal just smiled and walked towards us. "I'm starving. Would you accompany me for

dinner?"

"What will happen to my brother?"

"We shall discuss it at dinner, alright? For now he will be a trophy of mine." She smiled

and one of the guards who stood next to the door carried Phoenix and placed him next to the

throne. "Now, please come with me, it's been hours since I last ate." With a smile she skipped

through a corridor, Lumina, Brizza and I walked behind her. Her power is extraordinary...

49

CHAPTER 4: ICCECOLD

A large double door opened loudly. A cold light blue light illuminated the room. There

were six tall windows inside the long room, each decorated with colorful crystals. A long glass

table was placed in the center of the room. Eight decorated glass chairs; two on the short sides

and six on the long sides. A beautiful blue chandelier rose above the center of the table.

Krystal walked to the largest and most decorated chair that was placed nearest to another

door.

Lumina and Brizza took the seats in front of us next to Krystal‘s.

I went around her chair and sat on the first one in front of one of the windows. Each had

plates in front of us. As I sat down I noticed two plates next to mine.

―So Shadow, how have you liked my castle so far?‖

How could she be as if nothing had happened?

―Lady Krystal, everything is ready?‖ We all turn to see a tall old skinny man. He wore a

black elegant suit, round small glasses and had white hair combed backwards.

―Evening Xavi.‖ Called out Lumina

―Good evening my ladies.‖

―Xavi,‖ Krystal called. ―One of the plates won‘t me needed any more.‖

―Oh my, what did you do now my lady?‖

―Nothing to be worried about for now. Has our guest been notified?‖

―He has been, he must be just running late, you know how he loses track in our library.‖

―Very well Xavi, please start serving diner, I‘m starving.‖

―Of course my princess.‖ He took one of the plates in a swiftly elegant way and

disappeared to the door behind Krystal.

―I‘m sure you‘ll love the diner.‖ She said to me.

―I want to know what will happen to my brother!‖ I said angrily.

―Speak to her with respect!‖ Brizza said rising to her feet with one of her daggers out.

―Don‘t you dare put a hand on him Brizza!‖ A soothing voice thundered throughout the

room.

Brizza‘s face exploded into fear. She dropped her dagger and sat down. Lumina had a

disapproving face and Krystal was smiling reluctantly. Who could he be to make her tremble into

fear with just a phrase?

I began to hear steps from a far. My heart was pounding; I could not imagine what was

going to walk out that door. I believe I felt as scared as Brizza.

A not too tall silhouette walked into the room. The clothing was unmistakable.

―You!‖ I boomed loudly.

―Settle down, our conversation will take place in our common room after diner.‖ Kaezar

spoke as he walked around the table and stood next to me. ―My ladies; your highness.‖ He

bowed and took the seat next to mine.

―So you‘ve met before?‖ Krystal asked curiously.

―We‘ve met quite a few times.‖

―I knew that glow in his sword was a product of yours.‖

Kaezar was about to say something but gut interrupted.

―Ahem,‖ Xavi stood next to Krystal‘s chair as we turned to him. ―Diner is ready.‖

Five small minions came out of the door, each with plates in their hand.

―Epsilong has done an exquisite job of tender belium meet.‖

The minions placed the plates before us.

50

I leaned over to Kaezar to ask him what a belium was. He said that it was like a huge wild

bear that lived in the frozen forests. I tasted the meat and it was the most delicious I ever had.

―So, Shadow,‖ Krystal said. ―How are you planning to solve this mess you‘ve gotten us

into?‖

I was surprised. How could she know?

―It is no news to us that you were the one who mixed our worlds together.‖

―And how exactly did you hear of this?‖ I first thought Kaezar told them but I never told

him about the book.

―Are you kidding me?!‖ Krystal exclaimed. ―This is the only thing that was spoken about

in Solumsomnium for weeks! Even months may be.‖

―How could anyone know this?‖

―Because of you, Shadow,‖ Kaezar said. ―Everyone in Solumsomnium knew the book

was hidden on earth. If I recall correctly I told you that Shadow and Hector had different lives,

Shadow changed since you got a hold of the book and it appears that the Púca Azeliant, who you

knew as McKratey, rushed on the rumor that you were the chosen of the prophecy.‖

―What prophecy?‖ I said wondering.

Lumina stood up. ―We agreed that if he had no knowledge about this we wouldn‘t tell

him till morning.‖

―We agreed on that before the unison.‖

―Yet you broke our agreement!‖ Brizza cut in.

―Stop it all of you!‖ Krystal boomed. ―You all have a point. Yes, we agreed not to

mention it if he didn‘t know but we never foresaw the change the worlds would have into the

prophecy and our journey!‖

―What journey?!‖ I bursted in. ―You are all talking as if I wasn‘t here. You just called me

the chosen of a prophecy which I don‘t know anything about and then you agreed to not tell me

something regarding my memory and after that you mention a journey‖ A journey about what?!‖

Everyone sat down silently- Was this one of the changes I would have with Shadow? ―Isn‘t any

of you going to say anything?‖

―You‘re right…‖ Brizza said finally. ―We shouldn‘t have agreed to that, and we should

tell you. –‖

―- We should, but we won‘t until tomorrow.‖ Krystal said standing up. ―¨Preparations for

tomorrow have been done. I‘m off to bed now and I suggest to you all to do the same, tomorrow

will be a long day.‖ She pouts and walked away.

How dare she? It is about me what she is hiding from me.

The twins got up and dismissed themselves politely.

―Come one.‖ Kaezar said.

I stood up behind him and walked through a hallway. ―Kaezar, I hope you don‘t mind me

asking but, how do you know the way?‖

―I‘m not blind if that‘s what you mean, and no, I don‘t mind. That question is very

common for me.‖

―Why do you wear a blindfold then?‖

―It is a challenge for myself. As I said when we met, I learn to see the world, not with my

eyes but with my whole self.‖

We kept on walking long, cold hallways as he explained to me more about magic and

how much the blindfold enhanced him towards better sight and fighting abilities. We reached a

51

large room. There was a big burning fireplace, three large seats, two tables, many beautiful wall

paintings and an animal rug; it was large with purple fur.

―This is the common room of the east wing. The stairway to the right goes to the

women‘s rooms. The staircase to the left goes to the men‘s rooms. Your room will be the second

door up the stairwell and whatever you do, do not enter the door at top of it.‖

―Why not?‖

―Just don‘t. Now head on to bed, I‘ve got some preparations to do for tomorrow.‖ Saying

this he vanished through a door.

I struck my fist against a wall. ―Damnit…‖ Blood ran down my knuckles. I was not going

to stay here, not after this day.

I went out the door and went into a grand hall. Damn, I have no idea of where am I.

―Lost lord Shadow?‖

I turned around quickly and saw Xavi standing behind me with a cup in his hands.

―Here, drink this.‖ He said passing the cup to me.

―What is it?‖

―Hot chocolate. We do have similar things in both our worlds.‖

―Sorry.‖ I said ashamed and took a sip out of that delicious chocolate.

―Don‘t worry; it would be surprising if you did know about it.‖

―Thanks. Do you know where can I find Kaezar?‖

―Lord Kaezar is currently unavailable; he has locked himself inside our library.‖

Xavi pointed out different locations inside the castle then he dismissed himself politely

and I walked around sightseeing the cast bur heading to where the ballroom is. Just before I

opened the door I stopped as I heard music coming from behind it. It was a beautifully sad tune;

mostly violin with a piano backing it up. I slowly opened the door carefully, not making a sound,

and tipped toed inside the room where I could see a girl dancing to the music in a nightgown and

naked feet. I took a sit carefully as she danced away into a trance of melody. She moved with

such grace side to side so lovingly, so beautifully.

I should‘ve known it was you.‖

She fumbled down and turned at me fully red.

―I didn‘t how was I so foolish to have not noticed, but… Did you know it was me?‖

She faced down ashamed ―I always knew…‖

―And you never minded to tell me Alina?‖

―We couldn‘t tell you… We wanted to but we couldn‘t…‖

―Why couldn‘t you? What stopped you?‖

―I‘m sorry Hector, I can‘t tell you, it will be discussed tomorrow-‖

―With Alice?‖

Her face showed embarrassment and fear. ―How long have you known?‖

―I began to have my thoughts when I saw you. I just had to put the pieces together.‖

―Anyways… We should head to bed now…‖

―That‘s all I‘ve heard tonight; I want my answers!‖ I said in rage.

―Hector... Please...‖ Her eyes were about to burst into tears. ―I can assure that tomorrow

all your questions will be answered. You just have to wait.‖

I stepped quickly towards her and grabbed her by the neck. ―I‘ve been waiting too long.‖

She struggled for air, that was when I noticed what was I doing. I let her go and she took

a huge breath.

52

―Alina... I...‖ I began to stutter. ―I‘m so sorry. I didn‘t mean to.‖

―Don‘t worry. I know you didn‘t.‖ She got up and closed her eyes as her body began to

shine. Lumina came out of the light wearing the same nightgown. ―Shall we head back now?‖

I nodded and we began to walk. ―Why did you change?‖

―What do you mean?‖

―Your appearance. I mean; from being Alina to Lumina.‖

―Well remember you are not the only one new to this. I was checking out my abilities

when I realized I could turn back into Alina. Being Lumina I feel stronger in every possible way,

but being Alina; I feel relaxed, safe. I don‘t really know how to say it, but, I love how it feels

being both.‖

I remained silent the rest of the way, thinking. I had no idea of what she was talking

about. When I first turned into Shadow I did felt stronger just as Lumina described it, but I don‘t

know how would I feel about Hector, he is just a mundane, nothing more. I would like to stay as

Shadow Realm for the rest of my life.

We reached the east wing‘s common room. ―Sleep well Shadow.‖ She said heading

towards the right stairwell.

―You‘re staying in this wing as well?‖

She stopped and smiled. ―Lady Krystal asked us to keep an eye on you, however it was

Brizza‘s turn to guard but it appears she was off duty for some reason.‖

―I‘m sure so much security is not required.‖

She laughed. ―Sleep tight.‖ She disappeared up the staircase.

I sighed and walked up the left stairs. I walked past the first wooden door. It was dark and

a lot of energy was expelled from inside of it. The energy had Kaezar‘s signature all over it. I

walked over to the second wooden door, my room. I stopped just before opening it as my ears

twitched. A whisper. It was a low pitched dim fading whisper calling out my name. Even my

elven ears could hardly hear the whisper.

The voice came from up the immense spiral stairway above me. I released the door‘s

handle from my grip and walked up stairs following the voice. I walked past many doors, even

some gaps to this perfectly made staircase. The whisper was always at the same volume, the

same strength and always coming from above. When I reached the top the whisper stopped. In

front of me stood a large iron door. Even though Kaezar warned me not to enter I had to know

what was calling me.

I tried to open the door but it was locked. I bumped my head against the door. ―What was

that spell?‖ I bumped my head again. ―Oh yeah!‖ I touched the handle and recited: ―Alohamora.‖

I tried to open it again but nothing happened. ―Augh, stupid Harry Potter.‖ I punched the door

wondering what to do. I tried many times to open the door but nothing happened until I pointed

at the handle with my index finger and a loud clunk was heard. The movement of many

mechanisms were heard from behind the door. When the sounds stopped I tried once more to

open the door. It was unlocked.

I slowly opened the door. It was completely frozen. The whole room was covered in thick

layers of ice. It was so cold that you could actually hear the sparkles glowing from the columns

of ice. I stepped in very carefully. My wears twitched twice when I heard that fading whisper

once more. This time it wasn‘t my name it called out. I kept on repeating the voice in my head to

figure out what it was. I walked around the room looking for the source of the voice when I

bumped against an ice wall, that‘s when I recognized the name. Krystal.

53

I stood up and watched the ice wall; once again the whisper began and two huge flaming

bright red eyes appeared from inside the ice. My heart skipped a beat as I grasped for air. The

voice called out Krystal‘s name once more when the thing inside the ice moved. A small crack

appeared on the ice. ―This is not good.‖ It appears it is a prison. I ran towards the door but

fumbled many times due to the ice. My heart was racing when I found myself out the door. I

turned around quickly to close the door and let my body fall over it.

I allowed myself a few seconds to take a breath The whisper had stopped. I pointed my

index finger to the lock just as I unlocked it. The mechanisms began the door began to move

once more.

I tried not to think of this when I walked down to my room. As soon as I got in I locked

the door. The room was extremely warm considering the room I just came out of and that the

castle is made of mostly ice and crystal.

There was a large fireplace with a comfortable looking seat. A wall to wall window

covered in a beautifully decorated drape. In the center of the room stood an enormous bed with

dark coloured sheets. I sat on the bed thinking. What might it be that was locked up the tower?

Maybe it is not for me to know.

While sitting I watched myself from the mirror in front of me. I was very tired and

wanted to go to sleep. I couldn‘t help but to think about what Lumina had said, but I was decided

not to turn back to that good for nothing weak being. I started by taking off those heavy leather

boots. We had walked so mucho today, my feet were terribly sore. I unbuckled my belt and left

both the jacket and belt on the chair next to the bed‘s nightstand. I took off my shirt and

chainmail and threw them to the chair. My body was at rest. I watched myself in the mirror. My

muscles were extremely visible, gave me a confidence boost. Maybe I truly am Shadow Realm

after all.

I found my place inside the soft silk sheets. I closed my eyes to finally rest until I began

to worry. What if all this is a dream? What if I‘m still in my house? On my bed? I couldn‘t risk

it. I could not lose this. I kept on denying my sleep until my body gave in and I fell fast asleep.

My door opened up loudly. I sat up on bed as quickly as I could.

―Get up Shadow, we‘ve got work to do.‖ Kaezar said while throwing at me my stuff with

a single hand movement. ―I‘ll wait outside.‖ He turned and walked outside.

―Jeez, a ‗morning‘ would be nice.‖ I stood up and got my stuff on.

―I could use a shower you know.‖ I said while walking in the common room.

―We all could use many things we don‘t have.‖ Kaezar answered back; what‘s wrong

with him?

We left the common room and walked awkwardly silent for about five minutes. I don‘t

recall the castle this big. We reached a large double door and Kaezar came to a stop.

―I‘d like to apologize. I‘m not myself today. I had no rest last night. Probably just half an

hour or so.‖ I guess that explains a lot.

―Hey, don‘t worry about it.‖

He nodded. ―And yeah, I guess you could use a shower.‖

―Very Funny...‖

He laughed and opened the doors to the incredibly large library.

Krystal, Brizza and Lumina stood from their chairs.

―Good morning Ladies.‖ Kaezar said seriously.

They all greeted us.

54

Brizza ran at me and hugged me tightly.

I slowly returned the hug.

―I‘m so sorry Shadow...‖

―Don‘t worry dear.‖

She smiled then released me and walked up next to her sister.

Krystal walked in front of me. ―I guess there is no need in hiding who we are now,

right?‖ She took a step closer to me.

―Enough of chit chat. We‘ve got work to do.‖ Kaezar grudged.

Krystal took a step back. ―Jeez, what‘s up with you?‖

―Had a bad night! Now, may we continue?‖

―Sure sure.‖

I grabbed Krystal‘s arm. ―I need some answers from you.‖

―You‘ll get them in a moment.‖

Kaezar cleared a large table that we all surrounded. He laid out a large map of earth.

―Alright. This is earth‘s traditional map. Supposedly our worlds took their original form, before

the Mortisangelux banished us all.‖ He took out another map from a shelf nearby. ―This is a map

of Solumsomnium.‖ He left it on the table. ―Last night I traveled using my key around the world

to many places I knew to try and build a map out of these vantage points. The world has at least

doubled in size, maybe more and has at least 8 continents, keeping in mind that earth had five not

six or seven as many think and Solumsomnium has 6. Do to the drastic changes some may be

over another or some even separated into more, we‘re not sure but if we are looking for the

prophet we will need to head outside this one.‖

―And how do you know that?‖ Krystal asked impatiently.

―Well as strange as it may sound, some things have appeared that exist neither in earth or

Solumsomnium.‖

―How could that be?‖ I asked amused.

―Maybe there‘s a third world.‖

―Is that even possible?‖ Asked Lumina.

―There is no impossible.‖

―That means the Mortisangelux really fucked up.‖ I said faintly.

Brizza began to curse.

―Kaezar, please proceed.‖

―Ah, yes. As I was saying, this is just hypothetical, it is different for all of us yet I think

the best example I have so far is Eternity Forest; it has doubled its size, but then again, I must be

mistaken as it appeared over Cheshire which has a vast quantity of trees.‖

―Not enough to double its size.‖ Said Brizza.

As he was about to respond Krystal interrupted him. ―Kaezar, prophet!‖

―Then again I wonder off. Right.‖ He began to search for a book on the book shelf behind

him. ―Aha!‖ He opened the book and quickly moved through the pages. ―Here it is. ‗A prophet

may not be found through the sky. Through a door you must pass he who searches for the answer

of a righteous way towards justice. The party, as no lone man can take this journey, must survive

the tests this prophet leaves as obstacles to be found.‘‖ He closed the book. ―Last night I found a

friend, native from Solumsomnium who has the ability to locate someplace for a few seconds.

He found a demon door in an island he had never seen before. The cash here is that, that island

does not exists on earth either.‖

―So that backs up your theory of a third world.‖

55

―Yes.‖

―So how we get there?‖ I asked.

―Boat. I believe it will be the best way.‖

―Leading to where?‖ Krystal said.

―Somewhere south east.‖

―You know that with this changes it will be extremely hard to find anyone who will be

traveling.‖ Lumina said.

Kaezar shared a sight with Krystal, who took the word. ―We stimulate shipmen. We can

pay enough to set sail anywhere.‖

―Works for me.‖ Said Brizza.

―When may we set trail for a docking town?‖ Asked Kaezar.

―As soon as I complete my promise to Shadow.‖ Krystal said turning at me. ―Shoot.‖

―What is this prophecy all about?‖

―These who we call prophets in Solumsomnium are people who not only posses the

ability to foresee events on the future but an ability that may help them sustain their power and

get the clearest events. The prophet of our time is called Ethan Somerhalder, and he foresaw this

event of our worlds mixing together and the one who would do it would be a darkness carrier

who goes by the name of what he controls and that he has in his possession The Book of

Legends.‖

―Which reminds me.‖ Kaezar intervened. ―Where is the book?‖

I took a step back. ―Yes, I was searching for you for that same reason. I don‘t have it

anymore.‖ The eyes of everyone in the room widen.

―What do you mean you don‘t have it?‖

―Just when it happened I ran to meet with Old McKratey, that‘s when I turned into

Shadow as I fought a large creature. When it was over I went back to my house for the book and

then to look for you, but my house was gone. Someone or something destroyed all the hoses at

my street looking for that book.‖

The girls sat down while Kaezar began to curse.

―We‘ll deal with that later.‖ Said Krystal. ―Next question.‖

―Why did you want me dead?‖

Krystal laughed. ―I didn‘t want you dead.‖

I glared at the twins.

―We didn‘t want you dead either, we were just playing with you to bring you here.‖

―You could have asked me.‖

―Where‘s the fun in that?‖ Lumina asked smiling.

―That you could‘ve died! Yesterday Phoenix and I almost kill you both!‖ The both of

them looked down and I turned to Krystal. ―Why did you want me to come?‖

―The union of our worlds, just as foreseen, has caused many deaths to mundane and

natives from Solumsomnium. This meeting has been planned by us since a long time. We wanted

to stop you from doing the union but we were too late. None of us knew when would it happen

nor if you were going to actually see its text. Sadly you did. Anyway, this is only the beginning.

Many more will die if we don‘t get to change this. We had to stop you but if we failed we would

aid you in any possible way to stop this.‖

―Perfect. I guess it would be better to have more people helping us out. Now, about my

brother.‖

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―Oh yes, I almost forgot about him. I will unfreeze him as we set off. Any more

questions?‖

―Yes; one more. How was it, that we actually met? In our real world I mean.‖

Krystal had a curious satisfying smirk on her face. ―I had been thinking that very same

thing. Pure coincidence perhaps? But what I like to think is that, it is our destiny.‖

―Fate has brought us all together.‖ Said Kaezar. ―And it is fate who will join us with

many who seek the best for these worlds.‖

―Okay,‖ Said Lumina.

―Shall we get going?‖ Continued Brizza.

Krystal and the twins stood up as Xavi entered the room. ―Ah, Xavi, is everything set

up?‖

―Yes my lady, the mounts are waiting at the stable.‖

―Excellent. Now, Xavi, may you escort them to the entrance while I pack up some

things?‖

―Of course my queen.‖

We all except Krystal walked out of the library and walked silently over to the throne

room were Phoenix was frozen.

I walked over to his statue. ―Brother, why do you always get into this problems?‖

―Krystal walked into the room. ―Everything set?‖

―My brother.‖

―Of course‖ She raised her hand and the ice that surrounded Phoenix began to melt.

Phoenix blinked once and broke free from the ice. He dashed towards Krystal. I stopped

him before he got to her. ―Phoenix stop!‖

―I‘m going to kill her!‖ He struggled to break free from my grip.

―Hey, chill out!‖

He kept on struggling until I threw him to the ground. ―I said stop!‖ I pinned him to the

ground until he calmed down. I helped him up and gave him a brief explanation of what had

happened and what were we going to do.

―If what you‘re saying is true then I won‘t be able to go with you guys.‖ Said Phoenix.

―Why the hell not?‖

―Because there is people I need to find as well. Don‘t worry, I‘ll catch up to you. I just

need time.‖

I sighed. ―Remember that this is very dangerous. You‘ve got to promise me that you will

take care and lay low.‖

―Don‘t worry, I will.‖ We got up from the throne‘s steps as Krystal approached us.

―Walk to the stables with us. There‘s a horse you could use.‖

―Thanks.‖

―Let‘s go then.‖ Said Kaezar. We all got up and walked over to the entrance hall.

Krystal stopped and we all turned around over to the throne as the weather got extremely

cold. Krystal‘s face went whiter than it already was. She was scared.

―Don‘t you remember me, princess?‖

There was someone sitting in a discourteous way on the throne. ―It is nice to see you

again Krystal.‖

Krystal‘s voice cracked. ―How did you escaped? There was no possible way!‖

Kaezar shot me a deadly stare.

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The person on the throne slowly stood up. His whole presence was menacing. His hair

was blue colored, his eyes were light blue. His face was so delicate, so perfect, a thin nose and

thin lips. He wore a royal blue jacket over his bare body. A left large silver shoulder pad detailed

with unease scriptures. Both his arms were covered by two large royal blue gauntlets with a scaly

like texture and metallic silver plates decorating his joints as if consuming them. His fingers

were covered by claw looking metallic silver shards. A really deadly weapon. He had dark

coloured loose pants and iron silver boots.

―That‘s how you greet me after so long?‖

Brizza looked at Krystal. ―Who is he Krystal?‖ Her voice so innocent.

―Why haven‘t you introduced us my dear?‖ He said smiling going down the throne steps.

Krystal glared at him. ―My name is Iccecold.‖ He said smiling charmingly and bowing. ―And

I‘m Krystal‘s fiancé.‖ All but Kaezar stared at Krystal in astonishment. ―I am.‖ He said taking

out a small ice tiara and placed it on his head. ―The ruler of the most powerful ice kingdom,

Glace. Krystal and I were meant to get married even before birth. Yet she has always been

hostile with me.‖ He said smiling.

―Oh shut up Iccecold. You know exactly why I like that to you and you know exactly

why I imprisoned you.‖

―And my cell has now been opened by your caring guest which I‘ve forgotten to thank.‖

He turned at me. ―Thank you for letting me free.‖ He turned back to Krystal. ―Now Krystal, If I

heard correctly you all are leaving, but I‘m not letting my soon to be wife to leave just as I came

back.‖

―What?! This was all her plan! Besides it is her choice not your!‖ I said angrily.

―Shadow... He‘s right...‖

―No he isn‘t!‖

Iccecold moved next to Krystal and placed his hand on her shoulder. ―I thanked you for

releasing me, but I will not tolerate that sort of speech towards me.‖

I took out my sword in a swift movement. ―She is coming with us.‖

―Shadow! Put that away! He‘ll kill you.‖ Her voice trailed off.

Kaezar stood next to me. ―It is as if I‘m destined to clean up your mess.‖ He said taking

out a sword very similar to mine. ―She is coming with us.‖

Phoenix stood by my side and gave me a nod.

―Very well then.‖ Iccecold said walking towards the center of the room. ―Bring it on!‖

Krystal was in shock, the twins pulled her out of the way.

Phoenix took a step forward but I pulled him back.

―Look at Krystal‘s reaction. She practically tore you to pieces and now she‘s in shock. It

is best if you stay back.‖

―But I want to help.‖

―You‘ll be of best help if you stay safe. No step back!‖

Phoenix didn‘t look happy but did as instructed.

―Let the child come and play. You‘ll be dead anyway.‖

Kaezar and I shared a look and dashed, sword in hand, towards Iccecold who swiftly

evaded our attacks using his claws. Kaezar pointed his sword at him and launched a large energy

beam. Iccecold stopped the beam with his right hand, it turned into a sphere that began to travel

from his arm over to his left hand and was expelled over at me. The beam threw me against a

wall.

58

Kaezar ran at him and slashed several times but Iccecold evaded him as if it took nothing

of him to do it and struck him with his fist on the face. The metal in his fist must be really strong

as Kaezar jumped back in pain.

I snapped my fingers and the ground beneath Iccecold collapsed. As he got up I punched

him on the face, sending him back to the ground while his tiara fell and shattered on the ground.

―How dare you?!‖ He got up quickly but fell to his knees in pain.

Kaezar was shocking him with huge lightnings.

He tried to get up but couldn‘t, the lightnings were too strong for him to bare.

I used this as an opportunity to summon my bow and launched a dark arrow towards him.

As the arrow touched him it exploded throwing Iccecold to the air engulfed in darkness. While in

the air I used my free hand to launch a dark energy sphere which exploded at contact sending

Iccecold against a wall.

Something pulled him away of the wall and against another, it was when I saw Kaezar

doing gestures with his hands and arms; it appeared he was controlling him. Iccecold fell in front

of us and a pillar of ice grew bellow him and came crashing down violently.

―Shadow, duck!‖ Kaezar shouted at me and I jumped down.

Where Iccecold laid a really bright light shone, then it became flames and finally

darkness. Incredibly strong winds lingered around us pulling us closer to what was being built at

the center until it exploded violently.

I stood next to Kaezar who seemed tired, it looks like an attack like that one consumed

most of his energy.

Iccecold stepped calmly out of the smoke cloud, smiling, with no trace of what had

happened before, just a single blood drop from his lower lip. He cleaned it slowly and took a

look at his hand. ―Shall we end the warm up?‖ He smiled and ran quickly past between us.

We both fell down to our knees, both covering with our arms our chests. His claws had

swiftly scratched us, but strong enough to throw us down. Two pillars of ice grew beneath us

taking us up towards the high throne room‘s ceiling at a really high speed. Kaezar and I jumped

down and both fell heavily against the crystal flooring. We stood up slowly and took a hold of

our swords. We dashed at Iccecold and attacked him several times while moving though all the

room.

Iccecold evaded us easily and used his claws to repel our swords.

I shot a quick look at the girls and Phoenix. My brother stood anxiously wanting to fight

while the girls were behind him. Krystal was curled into a ball while Lumina and Brizza cared

for her.

―Watch out!‖

Iccecold kicked me on the face. I fell to the ground and Kaezar struck him with the hilt

and blew him away with a beam. ―Get up!‖

―Coming!‖ I stood and Kaezar gave me a sign with a gesture I had seen before. I pulled

my hands behind me, dark energy balls began to form in them. Kaezar held his hand forward and

a yellow energy sphere formed in his hand. As soon as Iccecold stood and ran to us I pushed my

hands forward and launched my energy beams at the same time Kaezar launched his. Just as it

happened before the three beams collided forming a huge yellow beam with dark ones circling it.

Iccecold tried to counter the attack with a beam that was consumed by ours. Our beam

passed through Iccecold and did a huge hole on the wall. When the beam disappeared Iccecold

stood where he was before the strake. His legs and feet were frozen tot eh ground, so no matter

how hard the strike was he didn‘t move.

59

The ice from his legs broke into tiny shards that flew towards us. We used our arms to

cover ourselves from the shards hitting our faces. The shards went into the side of my chest and

torso, as well as into my arms. When I turned to Iccecold I saw a metallic fist in front of me and

then nothing.

When I recovered conscience I saw Kaezar fighting Iccecold. Kaezar slashed and threw

spells and energy beams at Iccecold who used only his hands to protect himself and to attack.

<<What are you waiting for? Kill him! Or better, kill them both!>> I launched at Iccecold an

energy beam and struck him from behind.

He turned and with a swift movement of his hand he threw both Kaezar and I to the floor.

―Don‘t you get it? You can‘t kill me!‖

Kaezar and I threw a beam at him at the same time and threw him against the wall.

Kaezar grabbed him and threw him to the ground which began to move and locked him

underground. ―But you can be imprisoned.‖ Kaezar said in a very steady, powerful tone. He

turned and walked towards me.

―So this is it?‖

―He is not dead, I just imprisoned him as Krystal did before.‖

We turned back to the others; Phoenix walked to us. ―Are you ok?‖

―We‘re fine.‖

Phoenix reached into a pocket of his looking for something.

―Ouch!‖ We all turned as Brizza waved her hand as if to make the pain go away.

―Krystal, let us help you.‖

―No... No! Look out!‖

The castle began to shake. The ground at the center of the room exploded. We all took

cover from the flying shards. A powerful energy emanated from behind from behind of us.

―Almost.‖ Kaezar said.

―What?‖

―Almost as Krystal did.‖

Iccecold looked tired and hurt. His clothes were ragged and torn. ―You... You both

disgraceful vermin. How dare you do this to me. Prepare to suffer!‖ He said taking out a really

long spear and dashed at us.

I pushed Phoenix away right before Iccecold struck us with the spear on the face. ―Jesus!

My jaw!‖

Iccecold tried to impale me but I stopped the spear with my hands which began to bleed.

―Prepare to meet your doom young warrior.‖

―Not just yet.‖

Iccecold turned to meet Kaezar‘s fist. The punch didn‘t make him move much but Kaezar

blasted him away. ―Need a hand?‖ He said helping myself up with his and my bloody hand.

Iccecold stood up slowly and the spear rematerialized in his hand.

Kaezar and I took our swords out and dashed at him.

Iccecold stopped our swords with his spear every time we tried to slash him, just as if he

knew our movements.

I shot a look to Kaezar which he returned. Kaezar and I threw an energy beam at him.

Instinctively Iccecold defended himself. With the same swift smooth movement us both took a

spin and impaled out swords to his back. He fell to his knees, Kaezar and I took the swords and

kicked him down to the floor.

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He stood up and two large ice spikes grew where our swords went in. ―Now it‘s my turn.‖

He held the long spear, he span striking us both on the jaw. God. I spat out blood; Kaezar was

already up blocking Iccecold‘s claws and spear. I dashed at him and slash but he evaded my

slash and began to attack as well. It is amazing how he‘s fast enough to attack both Kaezar and I

giving us only enough time to block ourselves. We moved throughout the room. I was very tired

but couldn‘t give in.

Iccecold slammed Kaezar to a wall with his heavy armor. He impaled his right claw into

his shoulder, turned to me, grabbed me by the neck and slammed me next to Kaezar. ―This is

over.‖ He said slamming us against the wall again.

I was beginning to lose visibility until he suddenly released me. An arrow‘s metal head

went through his chest. He released both Kaezar and I slowly. We slide down the wall to the

floor coughing. Lumina stood behind with her bow in her hands.

―Now you little bitch.‖ Iccecold said losing his chivalry. He stood up struggling and

walked in a slow movement towards her.

Brizza stood before her sister pointing at Iccecold. ―Wind Blades!‖ Two chakram like

items appeared from thin air and flew at high speed towards him.

Iccecold crossed his arms to protect himself from the blades. The force of the blades

pushed Iccecold back cutting into his metallic gauntlets. Iccecold took a step forward and the

chakrams disappeared.

Brizza had a mischievous smile on her face. ―Ventuslamnia.‖

Iccecold fell to his knees and began to get cut by what looked like many tiny invisible

blades. ―Stop!‖ Iccecold stood fiercely releasing a very powerful energy wave.

Brizza and Lumina were knocked over. Iccecold launched at them an icebeam which

melted on its way. ―What?‖ A large fireball knocked down Iccecold. His eyes were full with

rage, he stood up and launched a large icebeam at Phoenix who launched at him a large flame

ray. The whole castle trembled as the attacks collide.

Phoenix was finally unleashing his rage. Iccecold kept on expelling energy waves but

Phoenix didn‘t flinch, in fact the energy from the palm of his hands grew turning into a large

ball.

―I‘m going to kill you once this is over.‖ Said Iccecold while ducking away from the

energy that emanated from the center of the room, where the collision was occurring.

―No.‖ Phoenix said standing straight and firmly. ―You won‘t.‖ The energy sphere that

grew on Phoenix‘s hand traveled the whole beam towards the collision making it larger. When

the fireball reached the center of the room it exploded into a strong energy wave and the fire

beam overtook the ice one reaching over to Iccecold. The beam burned all through its way

making a hole in the wall.

The flames disappeared but Iccecold stood in the same place. He was bruised, burned and

cut, but he still was up.

Kaezar and I stood up. Krystal called my attention. She was still in a corner scared. What

happened to her that made her feel that way?

Iccecold spear appeared at his hand, but he just stood straight, looking down, his hair

covering his eyes and blood ran down his arms. What could he be waiting for? We all flinched

when he began to laugh malevolently. ―I am impressed.‖ He said. ―Never had I been so

wounded... If I‘m not mistaken and I hardly am, I will die if unattended in an hour or so. Very

impressive. I‘ll be sure to receive the best the best service given by this kingdom once I kill you

61

all. Prepare to die!‖ Iccecold span twice his spear around him. A bright red light circled the

whole room.

―No!‖ Krystal began screaming over and over. ―Everyone run!‖ She cried in between

tears as she ran to the entrance hallway. ―Please! Save yourselves!‖

Of course Phoenix, Kaezar and I stayed put, but the twins looked doubtful, even then they

stayed ready for whatever Iccecold would do.

Iccecold raised his spear and began to scream in rage and pain, overlapping with

Krystal‘s cry. A light blue plasma like wall grew surrounding the circle trapping us all in it. The

whole circle‘s floor got covered in the markings of Iccecold‘s shoulder pads.

We all fell to our knees and covered our ears as a penetrating high pitched sound began

with the screams. All of us screamed in pain. Everything was blurry, everything was moving. It

felt as if my whole body was being crushed by an invisible object. The twins fell down and

convulsed; they were being tortured.

The whole castle was collapsing over us. Will this be it? I couldn‘t move and I‘m sure I

was about to faint. I had lost all vision when it all came to a stop.

Iccecold fell to one knee, using the spear to gain balance. The high pitched sound was

fading but was still there.

Phoenix, Kaezar and I fell to the ground. Fainting. <<What are you doing? Do not waist

what you‘ve got!>> Called out the fading voice in my head.

Krystal looked at us while on the floor.

―My love, please summon Xavi; I‘ll need medical attention as soon as possible.‖

Krystal stood up looking down and walked towards him. ―No.‖ She said looking at us. ―I

will not cower under you anymore. It had to come to this for me to notice. I will never be you

tool again! Guards seize him!‖ The guards that stood next to the entrance door came and grabbed

Iccecold from the arms.

―This is a grave mistake Krystal. Release me and I‘ll forget of this treachery.‖ More ice

guards with crystal armors placed their weapons pointing at Iccecold. ―Wrong call.‖ Iccecold

grabbed the arms of the guards that hold his and threw them against other ones. The guards

began to attack him but he fought them back.

Krystal took out a long clean sword. A royal guard struck down Iccecold. ―Stop!‖ Krystal

said. ―I will be the one ending this. Leave!‖ The guards released him and went out the room.

―Another mistake Krystal.‖ She glared at him and slash him. He grabbed the sword,

threw it aside and grabbed Krystal by the neck. ―Goodnight my dear.‖ Krystal struggled to

breathe.

An ice stalagmite fell from the ceiling to Iccecold. As it struck him it exploded into

shards.

―Augh. Cheap trick princess.‖

Krystal threw a light blue energy beam at Iccecold who threw one at her as well. The two

beams collided creating an energy explosion. ―Give up Krystal. You know perfectly that you are

no match for me.‖

―She might not be.‖

Iccecold turned surprised.

―But I‘m sure as hell I am.‖ I said and punched him in the face.

Iccecold got up with his spear in hand. I dodged his spear and cut it in half with my

sword, then kicked his chest throwing him to the ground. I slashed at him several times. He tried

blocking the attacks with his arms but many did cut him. He got up and tackled me.

62

His hand turned into an ice spike and tried to hit my head with it. I couldn‘t break loose

but I dodged his attacks.

Krystal blasted Iccecold off me and helped me up.

―Thanks.‖

―No... Thank you.‖

Iccecold got up and dashed at us. Krystal moved out the way but I waited for him. He

punched my face, it threw me down and used my left hand to jump up and kicked his back. He

fell and grabbed Krystal‘s sword from the floor and slashed at me.

I barely dodged his slash and then blocked him with my blade. The clash thundered

through the room. I took a quick step back letting him fall forward and struck his face with my

elbow.

He dropped the sword to care his face. Everyone else was getting up by this time.

Iccecold threw a bloody punch at me that I grabbed just before he hit me in an easy movement.

He fell to one knee in pain.

I placed my palm before his face and launched a dark blast but without releasing his fist.

Iccecold sat almost lifeless. ―Is it over now Iccecold? Are you letting her go?‖

―It isn‘t over‖ He said coughing up blood. ―It won‘t be until I die.‖

―Then, it will not be today.‖ I said storing away my sword.

―What? No! You have to kill me.‖

―I won‘t.‖ I turned to Phoenix. ―Hand me over a tear.‖ Before Phoenix reacted Iccecold

got a hold of my hand and grabbed a piece of his spear that was on the floor, placed it in my

hand and pulled it into his own chest. I felt the world stop. No time. We all looked surprised,

scared maybe.

Iccecold spat blood. ―Now you‘ve killed me.‖ He laughed and coughed.

I took the spear out of his chest. ―You fool! Why would you do that?!‖

He smiled. ―You are a great warrior. Please, protect Krystal as I couldn‘t. My power is

now yours to use at will.‖ He smiled again and looked down. His body began to fade. Only light

blue particles were left which surrounded me.

I felt cold; then it all brighten up. Iccecold‘s body was no longer there. I turned to see

Kaezar do the sigh of the cross. The twins were getting to Krystal who stood in shock. Handing

out some tears Phoenix walked up to me. ―You okay?‖

―Yeah, sure. Let‘s go.‖

We all got together. ―Sorry for the redecoration.‖ I said to Krystal, looking around the

room. She smiled sadly. ―I should be the one apologizing. It was my fault. Thank you all so

much for helping me. I‘m sorry I took so long to realize I had to stop this.‖

―Don‘t worry Krystal.‖ Said Kaezar.

―You could all have died!‖

―Yes, we could, but we didn‘t. What I want to know is why did he ended up killing

himself.‖

―Actually you were who killed him.‖ Said Kaezar.

―Not my actions.‖

―Still, it was your hand with the weapon.‖

―Oh shut up.‖ Said Lumina.

―Please proceed.‖ Continued Brizza.

―Iccecold was kind in heart, very lovely, but violent in nature. He could kill without

flinching, he didn‘t if it was woman, child or man. If it got in the way of what he wanted he

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disposed of it. That is why I locked him up. I wanted no more murders. The thing is that when he

escaped, you guys challenged him. You were in his way. Iccecold comes from a race of warrior

who‘s honor is what‘s worth most. There is no greater honor for them to die against a great

warrior. He was going to die anyway, that‘s why he got you to kill him.‖

―That‘s so... Sad.‖

―Indeed.‖

―The Glacies live by a strict code of conduct.‖ Kaezar said. ―Once they‘ve achieved the

greatest honor they repay the warrior giving them their power. Shadow, you‘ve been chosen by

Iccecold to be the one who would kill him. Once dead he handed you his power. You will have

his strength, speed, his ability over ice, but not as good as Krystal or Iccecold because of your

nature, but you will be better than I will ever be with ice. You‘ve just been given a new tool to

save our worlds.‖

―We should got now or it will get late.‖ Krystal said.

―What will happen to the castle?‖

―Don‘t worry, it will be back in one piece when we return.‖

―If we do.‖

―Of course we will.‖

We walked towards the door; I walked next to Phoenix. ―It is sad.‖

―What is?‖

―Someone as strong as Iccecold could‘ve been a great addition to our party.‖

Krystal turned. ―He wouldn‘t have joined us. Not if it didn‘t benefit him.‖ She said in a

very sad voice.

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CHAPTER 5: A JOURNEY

We walked outside. I shivered, it was even colder than inside. ―Now that I think about it,

where are the stables?‖ I asked Krystal.

―Down there.‖ She said pointing to a cave that was located halfway down the other side‘s

wall.

―How will we reach it?

She smiled and walked towards the edge, an ice bridge grew from her feet towards the

cave. ―You guys coming?‖

The walk towards the cave was shorter than it looked. Surprisingly it was warm inside it,

Xavi was waiting for us at the stable‘s entrance. ―Each has a sleeping bag and timber, as well as

some tools you may need during your journey.‖

―Thank you Xavi.‖

―And I‘m sorry, for what happened to Lord Iccecold.‖

―So am I.‖ Said Krystal sadly.

―Lady Krystal?‖

―Yes Xavi?‖

―Please come back safely.‖ He said vanishing through the entrance. Krystal nodded as he

walked away.

Kaezar went to and patted a large black horse with blue flames as eyes and flames on its

feet.

―Phoenix,‖ Krystal said putting a brown horse. ―This is Elia. She is a very fast horse,

please take care of her, she will take you where you want to go very quickly.‖

Phoenix grabbed on the horse‘s reins. ―Thanks.‖

―Now, Shadow, your mount is a new addition to your collection.‖ She said while she fed

a large grey wolf. ―He still has no name, he‘s just been trained.‖

I came close to the wolf and cared his head.

―Hope you find a good name for him.‖ She said smiling.

Phoenix got on Elia and moved next to us, Kaezar hopped on his horse. ―It‘s been a long since I

last rode Zeta.‖ He said gaining control of his horse.

Krystal got on a beautiful white stallion. ―This is Kyria, my majestic horse.‖

The twins rode on two identical purple stormsabers, maybe twins, just like them.

I got on the wolf; it was surprisingly easier than I thought it would be. Deeper into the

cave we found an exit, leading us into the valley, which wasn‘t a valley anymore; it was a town,

a city perhaps. ―Was this always here?‖

―It has always been around my castle,‖ Answered Krystal. ―Maybe it took longer to

appear than the castle.‖

We rode down the snowy streets while the people came out and watched us pass by.

Some knelt as we passed by them or their homes. Their queen riding off with some strangers,

some of them must be terribly upset, some may be horrified, and they are in their entire right to

do so, none of us know what is really going on and now their queen leaves, they must be scared.

A young girl made her way from the crowd towards the street. ―Queen Krystal! Are you leaving

us?‖ She said with sad watery eyes.

―Vanna! What are you doing?‖ A woman came out from the crowd. ―I‘m sorry my

queen.‖ She said hugging the little girl tightly. ―She doesn‘t know what she is doing, please

forgive us.‖

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Krystal stopped next to them, swiftly she got off the horse and stood next to the two

―There is no need to apologize,‖ She said to the woman. ―As of your question,‖ She knelt to

match the height of the little girl. ―I am not leaving you; I could never leave any of you.‖ She

smiled and got up. With a strong and powerful voice she cried to the people around us. ―Please

do not fear! I am not leaving any of you behind, I‘m going on a journey to save us all and bring

things back to normal. Bring things back to what they were supposed to be and what they will

forever be. Do not fear; you‘ll be left in good caring hands. Once the journey ends I‘ll gladly

come back to you, my people.‖

The people began to cheer and applaud, even in the mists of failing and dangers she can

help them with what they most need. Faith.

―What is your name woman?‖

―Kenia, my queen.‖

―Kenia, take your daughter to the castle tonight. There you will be greeted and escorted

inside, this night you‘ll dine with the royal members.‖

The little girl‘s eyes widen. ―Thank you queen Krystal!‖ Kenia and her daughter

disappeared amongst the crowd.

Krystal got back on to her horse. ―Everyone ready?‖

―What was that all about?‖

―The people are scared, it is my duty as their queen to help them be and feel safe.‖

We walked throughout the city into the forest.

―So I guess we‘ll part here.‖

―You better be careful, do you hear me?‖ I said angrily to him.

―Ain‘t I always?‖ He said smiling and rode off.

―He‘ll be fine, Shadow.‖ Lumina said.

―I know, I know.‖ I paused. ―So, where to now?‖

―If my calculations are correct,‖ Kaezar said. ―We should ride about three hours east to

get to the costal line, then, about si hours south to reach the first port village. We should hope the

land hasn‘t shifted since last night. If it has then we might take longer.‖

―So we should get going.‖ Said Krystal.

Kaezar‘s horse charged forward and we followed close behind him. We traveled though

the vas forest silently, I wanted to ask so many questions, I had so many doubts, but at this speed

it was impossible.

After an hour or so Kaezar came to a sudden stop. We all stopped right after him.

―What is it Kaezar?‖ Asked Brizza.

―Something is wrong.‖ He said.

―The route? We can pick it up once more.‖ Lumina said.

―It‘s not the path.‖ I said. ―I feel it too.‖

―Then what is it?‖

―Thieves.‖ Said Krystal coldly.

―How could they even think in attacking us?‖

―Remember Shadow, we are now part of Solumsomnium, these bandits are aware of what

they will be up against. It wouldn‘t be surprising they had powers themselves.‖

―They are moving at great speed towards us, but I can‘t sense from where.‖ We all got

off our mounts and waited for them.

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―Here!‖ Brizza exclaimed. Two men and a troll wearing black clothes jumped out of the

trees. Brizza extended her arm and the three bandits were nailed against trees.

―Let us go!‖ Yelled a man while the troll screamed at us in a strange dialect and the other

struggled to get out of the wind grip.

Krystal took her sword out and got near to the man who spoke. ―What do you want?‖

―Let us go or we will all die!‖

Krystal sheathed her sword and came to us. ―They‘re obviously scared; what should we

do?‖ She asked in a whisper.

―The question is what they are so scared of.‖ Kaezar said.

The three of them began to scream as three giant copper coloured wolves came out from

the trees and began to slaughter them just before us.

We took out our weapons simultaneously. One of them turned and snarled at us with his

blood covered fangs. The same one turned to the corpses and searched them; took something

from the bodies and ran off into the woods. The other two wolves growled at us, waiting for the

perfect moment to attack.

―We can take them right? I mean they are just wolves.‖ I said naively.

Both wolves curled themselves as they growled loudly. We could hear the sound of their

bones snapping and saw their extremities shifting. Their claws grew longer, so did their teeth.

Metal plates grew under their skin and the stood up on two feet. They howled loudly to the air.

―Not wolves, Shadow,‖ Kaezar said. ―Werewolves.‖

A shiver ran down my spine. One of the wolves jumped Kaezar and the other one jumped

me. It roared at my face, I thought he was going to bite it off until Krystal impaled it with her

spear while the twins helped Kaezar up. The werewolf slapped Krystal and jumped me again;

this time I was prepared for him. We rolled on the ground twice. I ended above him and began to

punch him several times on the face. The wolf slashed my face with his claws; I took my sword

out and impaled his armor. The wolf laughed in a strong low pitched growl. ―You‘ll need a lot

more than that to kill me.‖ He held my hand and pulled the sword out. His wound healed almost

instantly and kicked me against a tree. The werewolf got up quickly and grabbed me by the neck.

―Time to die.‖ The wolf growled when Brizza‘s daggers went through his back.

―Need a hand Shadow?‖

The werewolf‘s eyes widen and looked at me doubtfully. I struck him with both hands on

the chest, once on the face with my elbow and one punch on his chest followed by a dark energy

beam that sent him flying and whining against his companion who had just crushed Kaezar

against Lumina. They both whined as they fell to the ground. Both wolves jumped up and

Krystal began to freeze them to the ground. The wolf that attacked Kaezar broke free from the

princess trap and took a step forward. The second one howled to the air; the other one stopped

and turned to his partner. Both werewolves began to transform into humans. Both were very tall,

one was dark skinned with black hair and the other one was very white with copper colored hair,

both had thin leather armors and their skin were covered in scars. ―So you are Shadow Realm.‖

Said the white skinned one.

―Who wants to know?‖ I said in a battle stance.

He chuckled. ―My name is Luke and I‘m the second in command in our pack. I apologize

for the attack; we thought you were with those bandits.‖

―So you attack and then ask?‖ Asked Brizza.

―We usually are more civil than you may think, but we couldn‘t risk it right now. Those

bandits stole a really precious object from us and found our hidden city. We couldn‘t let beings

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like them have knowledge of the city or possession of the object, so if you were part of them,

then, we would‘ve had to kill you.‖

―And how was it that you figured out we weren‘t with them?‖

―Because of her.‖ Said the dark skinned one pointing at Brizza. ―When she threw me her

daggers she mentioned Shadow‘s name. I gave it a thought first, until he blasted me away with a

dark beam. That when I realized it was you.‖

―And how is it that you know me?‖ I said intrigued.

―Well,‖ Luke answered. ―It is no secret who is the book‘s carrier. It would be a pleasure

if you could accompany us.‖

―I‘m sorry,‖ I said. ―But we are in a hurry.‖

―Oh but I insist.‖ Luke said smiling.

Kaezar grabbed me by the shoulder and whispered in my ear. ―I think we should go. They

may be very civilized but are still wolves; I think it is in our best interest to have them as our

allies.‖ I nodded at him.

―I guess we can come with you.‖

―Excellent.‖ He then turned to the other. ―Izak, go home and tell Darius I‘m coming with

visitors.‖

―I will.‖ He jumped and his skin scrapped into fur; on the ground fell a large copper wolf

who ran at an incredible speed.

―Are you guys ready?‖ Luke asked.

I turned to everyone else who were getting on their mounts. ―Yeah, we are ready.‖

We ran through the forest behind the wolf. I‘m not really comfortable with going with

him, even though I have always been intrigued by werewolves I think that the safety of the girls

might be compromised if we follow him.

―Wait!‖ Growled Luke coming to a stop.

―What is it?‖ Asked Kaezar.

Luke sniffed around a tree and howled to the sky. Another howl was heard from a far.

―We can proceed.‖ He said in a rough low voice. He dashed and we followed behind him. In no

time we were surrounded by a large number of wolves. At the horizon a brick castle became

visible. We left the forest to find a large fortress covered by a huge wall with one enormous

wooden door guarded by two large werewolves.

Luke turned back to his human form. ―Welcome to the city of Epilaph.‖

―How long have you lived here?

―All your questions will be answered in a moment.‖ He turned to one of the guards.

―Open the doors.‖ The guard moved to a side and the doors opened up loudly. Inside the fortress

was full of small houses that looked like shacks. Almost every werewolf in there was in their

human form. It was an enormous population. Many came out of their homes to observe us as we

passed by; I guess they don‘t usually have any visitors. We went silently towards the center of

the city where a castle tower stood. ―You can leave your mounts here.‖ Luke said as we reached

the entrance. ―Don‘t worry, I promise they‘ll be safe.‖ He said smiling.

Krystal jumped off her stallion and we all followed her lead. The large entrance opened

leading us to a vastly decorated hall. Through the hall were many doors but to the end was a red

double door with a metallic frame. Luke came to a stop when we reached it. ―Darius is our clan

leader and he is very ill tempered. The only reason he is interested in this meeting is because of

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what you did, Shadow. Do not and I repeat, do not provoke him, as it may become terribly

dangerous for you here. Do you all understand?‖

―Yeah, We do.‖ Said Krystal.

―Very well then, his room is at the very top.‖ He said opening the door to a staircase.

―Good luck.‖ He said closing the door.

―He could be leading us into a trap.‖ Said Lumina.

―Remember he said they had to kill those who knew how to find the city.‖ Continued

Brizza.

―Yes, but remember those were bandits.‖ Said Kaezar.

―And how can we be sure to make them believe we‘re not?‖ I asked.

―Well we can‘t leave now so we better not leave him waiting. If he gets hostile we will

have to get as well.‖

―We would never make it out.‖ Said Brizza.

―It is exactly that attitude that will get us killed one day!‖ Boomed Kaezar.

―Silence!‖ Krystal yelled. ―Yes, it may or better said will be dangerous but we can‘t go

back now; now let‘s go meet Darius.‖ She said angrily.

―Very well, after you ladies.‖ The girls went up the stairs followed by Kaezar and me.

When we reached the top we found a peculiar green wooden door, halfway opened. Krystal was

about to knock but hesitated a bit, she turned to us with a scared look, then turned back to the

door.

―Come on in.‖ A rough voice came out from the room before the ice princess knocked.

We entered a very dark rustic room illuminated only by the lights of some candles. ―Welcome.‖

Said a man standing from a large leather chair in front of a wooden desk. The man was very tall

with silver hair and light green eyes. He didn‘t look too old but his expression portrayed

hundreds of years of knowledge. ―So you‘re the famous Shadow Realm?‖

―I don‘t know about famous but yes, I‘m Shadow Realm.‖

―It is a pleasure to finally meet you. I‘ve heard wonderful things about you, including that

it was you who reunited our worlds.‖ He paused a moment and cleared his throat. ―I‘m sorry;

I‘ve must‘ve forgotten my manners. My name is Darius and I‘m this clan‘s leader.‖ Everyone in

the room presented themselves.

―Kaezar Valdee, Ethereal Master.‖

―Brizza Warmlink, Ventus Domino.‖

―Lumina Warmlink, Lux Domino.‖

―Krystal Cyrio, Glacies Domino and queen of the land of Glemfrost.

―I feel honored to have you all here, especially a queen; I‘m sorry I can‘t offer you more

but as you may see, we don‘t run much by money.‖

―Don‘t worry about it.‖ She said with a warm soothing smile.

―Darius, how long have your people lived here?‖ Kaezar asked.

―I can‘t tell you exactly when as it has been a long time ago but I would say that around

eight hundred years.‖

―Did your people build this place?‖

―No, it was already like this when we inhabited it. It had been abandoned long before we

came here.‖

―Darius,‖ I said. ―Is there a specific reason you wanted us to come here?‖

―Actually,‖ He chuckled. ―Yes, I did. I want you to know that the Molganus clan is

willing to aid you in your quest in any possible way.‖

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―This is the Molganus clan?‖ Brizza exclaimed.

―So you‘ve heard from us?‖

―Only in myths and legends. Never did we think you were real.‖ Said Lumina

―I can assure you we‘re real and that probably all you‘ve heard we‘ve done is real too.‖

―I‘m sorry, but, who are you exactly?‖ I asked.

The wolf smiled. ―We are the largest and strongest werewolf clan to ever exist. Inside

these fortress walls is home to over three thousand werewolves. There are many, as well, who

live out of these walls and can be found in any of the three worlds.‖

―How is it that they are part of your clan if they live in different worlds?‖ Kaezar

snapped.

Darius took a sit and offered us one as well. ―I have, in my understanding that you are

looking for Ethan. Am I right?‖

―Yes.‖ I said coldly.

―The demon door that leads you to him was not part of either of our worlds but of Aerie,

a world that judging by your knowledge you may know as a third.‖

―How wo-‖ Kaezar tried to cut himself in but Darius interrupted him.

―My people for years have traveled in between worlds using the demon doors.‖

―What?!‖ Lumina exclaimed

―A long time ago a group of our men was ambushed by some trolls. Only three of

us survived. By the time it was over we were completely lost. After a day with no rest we

came across a demon door. It said that even in our time of greatest need new hope would

be found through his entry. To let us through he asked to be shown the creation of an

unbreakable pact. A blood pact was made under the oath that even after death we‘ll seek

and protect those who stood by us at great despair and agony. That night the Molganus

Clan was formed. The door opened its entry to its tunnels letting us go forth to a painful

and dangerous walk. We barely made it through, a night‘s walk later we found a village

where its people cared for us till complete recuperation. Soon after our arrival we found

out we were no longer in Solumsomnium. We lived there for over a year. The people of

Aerie have far more understanding of the Shattering than anyone in Solumsomnium. We

learned hundreds of things in there that we wouldn‘t even imagine at Solumsomnium,

this included about the demon doors. Some demon doors don‘t take you to another place

in the world but to other worlds, just like the one we entered. We also learned that the

door that takes you to our prophet was in Aerie. A year after our arrival the Molganus

clan had grown, most of the village was turned, willingly, into wolves. On a hunting trip

the three founders came across the very same door who had taken them there before. The

door was pleased to see how its prediction had worked and asked them if they would like

to return. The three of them were very confused; they talked about it for days until they

decided to ask their people. Some of them wanted to travel to the other world, other

wanted to stay. The original three found it really hard to take a decision, yet one of them

suggested himself to stay there, guide their people and strengthen the clan on behalf of

his brothers. The other two were not happy to leave him behind but they agreed we took

our people who wanted to come through the demon door.

At Solumsomnium we seeked our former, the Raav‘in Clan. We met the clan‘s

leader, Grimwalsh, in search for an alliance but Grimwalsh had found our separation as

treason and condemned us to death. When we defended ourselves, Grimwalsh attacked

us. He died in my hands that night.

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As a result the Raav‘in Clan disbanded and joined us. The members of our clan

searched the worlds for more demon doors and found a door that led to Earth. My other

brother traveled to Earth and extended our domain. Since then members of you clan use

demon doors to run errands through all the worlds.‖

―So anyone who wanted to go to another world could go at anytime?‖ I asked.

―They could.‖ Darius said. ―But it is very difficult. First you must complete the

demon door‘s task to make it open itself. Then go through its perilous carven full of traps,

monsters and secrets.‖

Kaezar who had looked as in trapped in thought turned to Darius for a second.

―Do you know where the demon door that leads to Ethan is?‖

―Yes, I know where it is, but you‘ll have to cross the sea which won‘t be easy. If

you like I could send someone with you to find you a boat and take you to the demon

door.‖

―It would be of much help, thanks.‖ Krystal said sharply. We all got up and

Darius walked us to the entrance. Behind the door stood one of the wolves who attacked

us earlier.

―Izak! I was going to look for you.‖

―What is it Darius?‖ He said coldly.

―I want you to take these people to Rema‘s port, find Emmanuel. He has a debt

with us; tell him to take you all to Lurdon. Once there, I want you to take them to Ethan‘s

demon door. I‘m sure you‘ll have no problem doing this.‖

―Gladly.‖ He said coldly once more.

―What?‖ We all turned to see Luke coming at us. ―Why would you send him?

Why not send me, Darius?‖

―Because I believe Izak is a better candidate for this mission.‖

―You know there is no one better than me for this. I was who found that door. I

can take them there in no time.‖

―I will not be having this discussion Luke, no stand down!‖

Luke growled angrily, jumped turning into a large wolf and ran away.

―I‘m sorry about Luke; sometimes he wants to get included into everything that is

done here.‖

Izak turned to us. ―Are you ready?‖ He said coldly. We got on our mounts and

nodded. He dashed turning into a wolf, we were quickly behind him. We traveled quickly

out of Epilaph with no words being said.

When nightfall reached us the large wolf came to a stop. ―We should rest now. As soon

as the sun comes up we will go back to the trail.‖ We built a camp fire and took a place

around it. Thanks to Krystal who gave us traveling supplies we all slept on warm sleeping

bags, except for Izak who didn‘t gather around with us. He kept his distance always so

vigilant, looking forward to the road.

―Hey Izak! Would you like something to eat?‖ Said Brizza.

He continued to stare at the road. ―I appreciate your invitation but I ate before the

trip, believe me, anything you have to offer to a wolf won‘t make him feel a thing.‖ He

showed a small glimpse of a smile.

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Kaezar prepare his horrible smelling and tasting tea. He poured a cup to all,

including to the wolf. Kaezar, Izak and I drank it easily. The girls couldn‘t stand the taste.

―How can you drink this?!‖

The water splashed against the broad boards from the boat. The slightly cold

breeze pulled my hair backwards as I sat on a crate.

“This is beautiful!” Exclaimed Lumina looking at the landscape. Brizza giggled

happily as she barely touched the water with her fingertips. Krystal was nearby freezing

water into figurines. Izak was inside with Emmanuel discussing about our destination.

“It looks like they‟re having a good time.” I said looking at the girls to Kaezar

who sat next to me staring to the horizon.

“Yes, I guess they do. But not for long.”

I looked over to the horizon and saw a large black cloud.

“A storm is coming.” He said quietly.

The waves became violent. The wind shifted the boat side to side.

“Brizza! Can‟t you do something with the wind?!” We all tried to get a hold of

something.

“It is out of control! I can‟t manipulate it when it is so violent!”

“Watch out!”

“Wind bla-Aaah!”

“Brizza! Where is i-”

“Lumina!”

“Krystal! Don‟t!”

“Kaezar!” I jumped with my sword in hand.

“Death awaits.” Cried a whisper.

―Aah!‖ I sat up quickly soaked in sweet. Before me were six beautiful doubtful

eyes.

―Are you okay Shadow?‖ Called a charming voice.

I blinked twice in surprise. ―What happened?‖

Kaezar stood behind the girls, even behind the blindfold I knew he was staring at

me. ―You began to scream our names in a horrific voice. What was your dream about?‖

He said in a very interested tone.

―I have no idea… It‘s all blank…‖ I stuttered.

―What a pity. Could have been a fair warning.‖

―Gather your stuff.‖ Said Izak. ―The sun will rise any moment now. We shall get

going.‖

―Is the port close?‖ I asked.

―If we have no more distractions we‘ll arrive by nightfall.‖

―Let‘s go then.‖We packed quickly and got on our mounts.

―Ready?‖

―Yeah.‖ The wolf darted towards the valley with us close behind him.

This was too a long silent trip. We all tried to keep a constant speed behind the

wolf; it is hard to believe how fast he was. Surprisingly nightfall reached us quicker than

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I thought it would. In a moment we come to a sudden stop. ―We‘re here.‖ Izak said

turning into his human form and hoped on the large wolf with me.

We went into the small village full with wooden houses and many farm animals

including ones I didn‘t recognized. A man came out of a wooden cottage. ―Travelers? In

just a few days after the union?‖

―Don‘t fake a surprise Steven.‖ Said our wolf companion.

―Izak? Is that you? For Aerie! You‘ve grown so much! Said the bald man.

Izak smiled. ―I don‘t age and you know it old fool.‖

Steven bursted into a laugh. ―How may I help you?‖

―Right now we need housing. I‘ll fill you in tomorrow morning.‖

―Just go with Tomina, you know she‘ll be more than happy to take you in.‖

―I‘ll look for her. Don‘t forget you still owe me a rematch on Eterlof.‖

He laughed. ―Maybe next time.‖ He walked back into his home.

Izak turned with a small smile. ―I used to come here all the time. Tomina is the

owner of an inn,, may not be much but I guess it‘ll do for one night.‖

―Anywhere would be nice.‖ Said the princess.

A few houses away there were some stone stairs that led up to a second level

where a three story building stood. It had four windows on the floors above and a large

wind beaten green wooden door. Izak opened the door to a very warm and cozy yellow

lobby where a young beautiful tan skinned girl was working behind a counter.

―Izak?‖

―Hello Rina.‖

―Wow! It‘s been so long! How have you been?‖

―Living life day by day. Is any of your parents here? My friends and I need a

place to stay for the night.‖

The girl took a look at us. ―Where are my manners? I apologize, I got carried

away. My parents are not here, I stay for in the nights. Don‘t worry, the night is on me.‖

―No need to.‖ Krystal said.

―Oh please, don‘t worry, I‘m willing to do it as a favor to an old friend, besides,

how could I deny a night to the queen of Glemfrost.‖

Krystal gasped in surprise. ―How did you know who I was?‖

―Well, people from Arie are very aware of the things that go on at the other

worlds. I‘ve got a particular interest in kingdoms, and I just happen to have read of you.‖

She said with a charming smile. Out of a drawer she took two keys. ―For the ladies there

is the left room on the third floor, I‘m sorry but it isn‘t much.‖

―All this is more than enough.‖Said Lumina.

―Boys, I‘m sorry but it isn‘t as neat as the girl‘s. Second floor to the left.‖ She

said smiling and handed the keys to us. ―Need guidance?‖ She said smiling.

―No need.‖ Said the wolf with a charming smile that portrayed hers. ―We can find

our way.‖

―Too bad then.‖ She said with a kinky wink directed to Izak.

We walked up to our rooms. The girls continued up and we entered our room.

―So, anything going on between this Rina girl and you?‖ Kaezar asked in a joking

tone.

―We‘ve copulated several times and are really close friends but we don‘t really

have a relationship.‖

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I found it a bit awkward because she looked so young. ―How old is she?‖ I asked.

―Seventeen, if I‘m not mistaken.‖

―And it has been long since the last time you saw each other so, when did you

start to mate?‖

―Oh, now I understand where you are getting into. It was about five years ago. In

our world the word pedophilia basically doesn‘t exist. It is very alike as in how an author

of your world described in his book Brave New World. Basically sex can be done at any

age with no negative view from the people. Either way it wouldn‘t be much fair for me

who is about two hundred years old. In that case I would be a pedophile no matter who I

was with‖

―I think it is something hard to get used to.‖

―Does she know you‘re a werewolf?‖ Asked Kaezar

―Yes, she is aware of that, as well as the whole village, but not many folk like the

fact of half humans being here. Don‘t worry though, we‘ll leave tomorrow morning. We

could really need a good night sleep.‖

―Yeah, I guess you are right.‖

The three of us made a relaxing sigh as we fell on the beds. I wondered what was

going on on the girl‘s room. But I couldn‘t give up the time we had on those relaxing

beds. Tomorrow will be a long day, probably filled with new adventures and a whole new

world to discover. A new continent for us to reach. In minutes I fell fast asleep.

“Who are you?”

“I‟m afraid I can‟t tell you yet.”

“Have we met before?”

“Probably. Probably once, long before your time.”

“What is it that you want?”

“I want to help you, guide you. I don‟t want you to run off on a wrong path”

“Why would I?”

“There are many things that surround you. The people you may find may blur you

mind, your vision, your destiny.”

“Which is what?”

“You‟ll find out very soon.”

“How will I know?”

A smirk crossed his face. “Trust me, you‟ll know.” The smirk turned evil,

followed by a laugh that stood with his grin.

My reflection on the mirror faded away. The mirror vanished leaving me alone

inside the dark room. I sat up against a wall that couldn‟t be seen or felt. Images rushed

through my mind‟s eye about death. People who are dear to me. More specifically those

who‟ve been traveling with me. Lumina. Brizza. Kaezar. Krystal... Images of all falling

dead before me.

I‟ve believed in dreams before and have come true. What is this? I pressed my

hands against my forehead. Tears ran down my arms. Fear rushed through my back. Im

scared. I‟m scared this will happen. What would I do if it does?

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I covered my face with the blanket when the morning light struck my eyes. In

moments I felt as someone hoped on the bed next to me. ―What do you want?‖ I

murmured under the sheet.

―Wake up grumpy.‖ Called out a melodic voice.

I raised the sheet high enough so I could peek out to see who it was. For my

surprise it was Krystal. ―Why so early?‖

―Everyone is down for breakfast, I though you should come as well. Yesterday we

hardly ate something and I know for a fact that you eat much more than you body

portrays.‖

I sat up on the bed while she laid next to me. I looked around the room and saw

no one. ―Isn‘t it inappropriate for us to be alone in a room on the same bed?‖

She smiled. ―Fair enough!‖

Krystal and I walked down the stairs and found a man next to the counter. ―Is this

your fellow, princess?‖

―Yes Joshua. Shadow, this is Joshua, Rina‘s father.‖

―Pleasure to meet you.‖ I said politely.

―The pleasure is all mine.‖ He said. ―Now come, you must be starving.‖ We

followed him to a door next to the lobby. Behind the door was a large battered wooden

table where Kaezar, Lumina and Brizza sat drinking out from metal looking cups.

―Morning.‖

―Morning sleepy head!‖ Brizza said happily.

Lumina stared at her plate with a hungry emotionless face. Rina came in with

three plates; she placed two together and gave the other one to Lumina. ―Thanks dear.‖

―You‘re welcome.‖ The young girl turned to us. ―You two should start eating

before it gets cold. I don‘t want to be a show off but nobody does volturie eggs and Black

Duiel chops like I do.‖

―And don‘t forget to taste this delicious Lunar Brew Ale!‖ Said Keazar raising the

cup almost falling down.

―Is he drunk?‖ I asked Rina as we sat down.

She laughed. ―Our Ale does have alcohol in it but not enough to lose conscience

or getting drunk. The trick is the herbs it contains. Total effect of being drunk but less

violent and more control of yourself. Five minutes without drinking the effect leaves the

body, but leaves a tremendous hunger behind. Any way it‘s delicious and I‘m sure you‘ll

like it.‖

We began to eat and drink, indeed it was all so delicious. Kaezar was almost

passing out. The twins were eating as if it was their first time, I‘m sure the princess was

feeling she was getting as happy as I was. ―By the way, where is Izak?‖

Lumina stopped eating and looked around. ―You‘re right, where is he?‖

Kaezar who was lying completely on the bench raised his hand and talked almost

inaudibly. ―He said he was meeting a friend.‖ Then he passed out.

I finished my breakfast without drinking but water. By this time Kaezar was sober

again, the twins were stuffed and Krystal was starving due to the Ale.

―Where could we find Izak?‖

―Try the docks.‖ Rina stepped in. ―It‘s probable that he‘ll be there.‖

―Thank you Rina, you‘ve been terrible good with us.‖

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―You‘re very welcome, feel free to come and stay here whenever you want.‖ She

said smiling and gave a wink to both Kaezar and I.

―Alright you two, let‘s go before your hormones start to run wild.‖ Brizza said in

a threatening tone while pushing us towards the door.

The small porting village was full with joyful air and gleeful people, especially

the children who played all around. We reached the dock right behind the inn we stayed

in. There were a few fishing boats and one fairly big enough for the trip we were taking.

―Good morning.‖ Said Izak.

―Hey you, where were you this morning?‖ Said Lumina.

―I‘ve been trying to locate the owner of this boat.‖ He said pointing to the fairly

large boat. ―It is the only one who can take us that far.‖

A brown haired man in khaki clothing approached us. ―Izak, what you are asking

for is too outrageous. After the union, Arie knows what‘s out there.‖

―I‘m guessing you are the ship‘s owner.‖ Krystal said.

―My name is Emmanuel. I‘m guessing you are the crazy ones who want to cross

the ocean in this state.‖

―Easy.‖ Said Izak sharply.

Krystal raised her hand to silence him. ―Don‘t worry about anything, we‘ll pay

you any sum asked.‖

―You can keep your money, I ain‘t taking you nowhere.‖

Izak‘s eyes looked furious. He grabbed Emmanuel, turned him around and

whispered to him in an angry voice.

―You know you can‘t do that.‖ Emmanuel said in a stutter.

―Don‘t try me Emmanuel.‖

Emmanuel terrified turned to us. ―I‘ll take no less than seven Sinclaid.‖

―Are you mad?!‖ Brizza exploded.

―Don‘t push it!‖ Said Izak.

―Silence!‖ Krystal beamed at them. ―You‘ve got a deal.‖

―Let‘s get going then.‖ Emmanuel said trotting on to the boat.

I walked close to Kaezar who was lost in thought. ―What is a Sinclaid?‖

―Ah yes, I‘m sorry, never got to explain in detail. As I‘ve told you before, the

brising dinar is our currency but not our only one, yet it is the most common. 147 Dinars

are equal to one Kroate, 89 kroates are equal to one sinclaid. Let‘s say this sailor got a

hell of a job. The brising dinar is a metallic red coin. Kroate is a brilliant green and

sinclaids are a vibrant purple.‖

We stepped on the boat while Izak and Emmanuel talked inside the cabin.

―What do you think they‘re talking about?‖ Krystal asked me.

―I‘ve got no idea and I really don‘t care. If they can take us to Ethan then that is

all we need.‖

―What an attitude.‖

Both Izak and Emmanuel stepped out of the cabin. ―Is everyone ready?‖ The

Lycan asked.

―The sooner the better.‖

―Alright.‖ Said Emmanuel. ―Then we‘re off.‖

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The water splashed against the broad boards from the boat. The slightly cold

breeze pulled my hair backwards as I sat on a crate.

―This is beautiful!‖ Exclaimed Lumina looking forward to the beautiful sunrise.

Brizza giggled happily as she barely touched the water with her finger tips.

Krystal was nearly on the edge freezing water into small figurines.

Izak was inside the cabin with Emmanuel discussing about our destination.

―It looks like they‘re having a good time.‖ I said looking at the girls to Kaezar

who sat next to me staring to the horizon.

―Yes, I guess they do. But not for long. A storm is coming.‖ He said quietly.

―Whoa, I‘ve got a major déjà vu.‖

―It happens all the time when you see what others can‘t.‖

―I guess you‘re right.‖ I said and got up. I sat next to the princess who hummed a

beautiful lullaby. ―What are you doing mi lady?‖

―Morning Shadow.‖ She said smiling. ―Crystal figurines. A simple trick my

mother taught me when I was young.‖

―Can you teach me? I‘ve got still much to learn and I think there is no greater

teacher for this than you.‖

She gave me a warm smile. ―We‘ve been a day at sea. I don‘t think we can

practice much here.‖

―I think a simple trick may be a good starter.‖

Smiling she turned towards the water. ―It is very simple. Focus your mind on a

spot in the water. Extend your arm towards the water. Let it be a connection between the

magic inside of you with the water.‖ Si did so and a thin light blue layer of ribbons

surrounded her forearm towards the water creating a small block of ice. She took it from

the water and showed it to me. ―Once you have the cube, picture in your mind what you

want it to be. The control you have over ice will take over your body and the ice cube, it

will shape it at your desire.‖ The block began to break into a perfect shaped tree. ―Now

you try it.‖

I extended my arm towards a fixed point at the water. The same thin layer of light

blue ribbons circled my forearm to the water. I was amused to see the ice cube form in

the water.

―Grab the cube and picture in your mind what you want it to become.‖

I could see it perfectly in my mind. Two perfect leaves on its delicate stem. The

soft petals that decorated the top of it. Every single thorn that ran down it all. In my hand

was a perfectly shaped rose. I handed it over to Krystal who grabbed it with some watery

eyes.

―It‘s beautiful.‖

With a smile I turned to the waves that suddenly became violent. The thundering

wind shifted the boat side to side.

―Brizza! can‘t you do something with the wind?!‖ I screamed while we all tried to

get a hold of something.

―I can‘t! I can‘t manipulate it when it is so violent!‖

―Brizza lookout!‖

From behind the rain a tall dark figure descended and struck Brizza behind her

neck.

Her twin dashed to protect her fallen sister. ―Where is it?!‖

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The entity slashed the girl across her face throwing her to the ground.

―Lumina!‖ Yelled the princess who attacked with a spear in hand.

―Krystal don‘t!‖ Kaezar jumped after her.

The shadow grabbed the spear and struck the queen with it, in a half spin it broke

the spear and took it through Kaezar‘s chest.

I took my sword and dashed to it. I slashed several times but he quickly dodge my

sword.

With its skinny cold hand it grabbed me by the neck and whispered. ―Death

awaits.‖ With a fallible voice.

When everything went blurry I heard from behind: ―Revatum Spectrum!‖ Then

the figure was thrown down by Emmanuel‘s spell. A large wolf jumped growling over it

angrily. ―Is everyone alright?‖ Yelled Emmanuel as the weather began to take control.

The twins got up slowly. Krystal rose sobbing her nape. ―Where‘s Kaezar?‖ She

said looking around with a blurred sight.

Kaezar was bleeding badly with the spear still stuck into him. I felt a tremendous

pain below my ribs. I tried to crawl over to him but Krystal beat me to it.

―Wait Kaezar, don‘t move.‖

―I can‘t, even if I‘d want to.‖ He said as Krystal tried to stabilize the bleeding

while freezing his wound. Kaezar screamed as the wounds froze.

―Kaezar, look at me. This will hurt a lot but has to be done. Do you understand?‖

His breathed heavily and nodded at her.

The princes pulled quickly the spear off his chest and ice grew from his injury.

Kaezar screamed horribly. ―Dear God! You could have told me it would‘ve hurt

much more!‖

Krystal rushed up with the spear and went towards the hooded being. ―Give me

one good reason why I shouldn‘t kill you this instant.‖

The creature laughed in an obscure murmur, one that can‘t be described. A dark

eerie whisper consumed the boat.

―Not good enough.‖ Izak, still over the entity moved enough to let Krystal pierce

its neck. Just as the spear was about to go through, Emmanuel called her to a stop by

grabbing her arm. ―Why is it that you‘re stopping me?‖

―You can‘t kill him... Not yet. He‘s a Raven, also known as Dementor. These

creatures are messengers that require a really powerful being to control them. As they

deliver the message they coldly kill anyone surrounding the receiver, if not the receiver

itself. They are heartless, merciless and stop at nothing.‖

―Someone sent him to us. Someone very powerful and we need to find out who

and why.‖ Said Kaezar standing up with the help of a large bulky wooden cane. ―How

can we speak to him?‖

Emmanuel took a look at the raven. ―They know our language, it is for him to

decide if he wants to talk.‖

―Any ideas?‖

Emmanuel smiled at Kaezar and turned to the dementor. ―Renatum

Encantantum!‖

The raven‘s body raised in the air just as Izak jumped off him. It‘s body was

completely covered under a long black hooded cloak. An eerie whisper crossed my ears.

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―Tell us raven, who sent you here?‖ Asked Kaezar. The faint whisper continued.

―Not good enough.‖ Kaezar raised his hand, throwing a small energy wave. The wave

pushed the hood back. The three girls gasped in fear.

His body was a pure black skeleton, patches of rotten meat were stuck between its

bones. He laughed in a way that can‘t be described, so horrific that shivers run down my

spine just thinking about it. ―Frightened by the sight of pure beauty?‖

―Don‘t you dare talk to them. Now answer me! Who sent you?‖

The Raven remained silent.

Kaezar threw another energy wave to him. It remained silent. Kaezar wanted

answers but the raven gave him none. Frustration could be seen in his eyes.

I placed my hand on his shoulder. ―Let me try.‖ I walked towards him, took my

sword and placed the sharp tip under his almost fleshless chin. ―Who sent you?‖ I said in

a menacing tone that came out surprising myself. <<Get it out of him. Rip it out from his

chest if necessary>>

The dementor took a deep breath. ―Ahh... So you are Shadow, the traitor of

human race.‖

―Who sent you?, you monster.‖

He laughed. ―Monster? I live day to day with a struggle for survival as my race is

in the verge of extinction. We ravens are treated as scum due to our appearance, then

ordered to deliver messages likes slaves just so we can survive. You are a kid who had

nothing to worry about but grades on a stupid school. When given a chance you selfishly

change the natural order for you to get what you always dreamed of, but it was the people

that lived in your world who had to pay a terrible price. Many died because of your

choice, others are close to dying as they can‘t survive against the magic that was taken

away from them long ago; you basically betrayed your kind pushing them into extinction

and then you dare to call me a monster?‖ He laughed again and I dropped my sword.

I was completely shocked, paralyzed.

The invisible bindings that held the raven broke sending us back. The raven flew

high in the air. ―Beware you all of the dark one. His return is closer than you may think.‖

He said in a horrific double voice. ―Consider the message delivered!‖ He flung his cape

around himself and vanished creating a sonic boom accompanied by an explosion that

almost shifted the boat around. The storm disappeared just behind him.

―Oh God; Shadow!‖ Said Brizza reaching out to me.

I was frozen in the spot after what the dementor had said. ―He was right you

know...‖ I said looking to the horizon.

―No he wasn‘t!‖ She said.

―She is right Shadow, he was playing with your mind.‖ Said Lumina.

―You all know that‘s not true. I did these things, he lied about nothing.‖

―Stop that! Stop saying that! Kaezar, knock some sense into him!‖ Krystal said

almost begging.

Kaezar who stood with his arms crossed looked at the girls, then at me with no

expression whatsoever. ―He is right. If it hadn‘t been for his decision we wouldn‘t be

here.‖

―Kaezar!‖

―Hundreds of lives wouldn‘t have been lost from any of our worlds.‖

―Jesus Kaezar, we want to help him, not to worsen the situation.‖

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Kaezar walked in front of me. ―But you have to understand that your decision was

not selfish at all. You were following your dreams and you should never let anyone tell

you that you did wrong. Sadly the aftermath wasn‘t as great as you may have imagined

but let me tell you something, if it hadn‘t been for you we wouldn‘t be here, together.

You gave us this great adventure and probably to thousands more. You brought the light

to what life was originally meant to be. Don‘t burden yourself with mistakes, take the

best of them and become stronger. You did nothing wrong. Now... Get a hold of yourself

before I kick your ass.‖

I laughed. ―Thanks Kaezar.‖

―Don‘t mention it.‖

―I‘ve been thinking, what do you think that raven meant with his message?‖

―Beats me, something else we can ask Ethan.‖

―I would recommend to us all to have a good sleep. the sea may trouble people

while awake and nightfall is not far. Emmanuel believes that we will arrive by morning.

An interesting day will arise for you tomorrow.‖ Izak said.

―Yeah, I guess you‘re right.‖ We headed downstairs to where the beds were.

I really felt tired but I couldn‘t sleep. It had been hours since we had gone to bed,

but I was still fully awake. I sneaked out of the room trying not to make a single sound.

The night was cold and full of stars. It felt good to be alone on the deck.

I sat down on a crate and stared at the invisible horizon.

―Sleeping problems eh?‖

―Hey Kaezar.‖

He sat down next to me. ―About earlier, if I said that offended you, I jus-‖

―No, it isn‘t that, it‘s just... I‘m scared Kaezar.‖

―You don‘t have to worry, you know I will always be there to help you and back

you up, just like Lumina, Brizza and Krystal. You don‘t have to worry about anything.‖

―I know it‘s crazy and I‘m sure it is not true but, I‘ve read many times...‖ I created

a dark fireball at my hand. ―That he who controls darkness ends up against their beliefs.

That they usually become... Evil.‖

―are you kidding me? Shadow, you know perfectly that that is not true. The fact

that you can control darkness has nothing to do with what who you are.‖

―I know but, there is something that has been bugging me. I constantly lose

control and... I hear a voice inside my head... My own.‖

―What does it say?‖

―The first time I heard it was when we fought Adramelech. You told me how to

attack him. The voice told me to ignore what you said and find a quicker way to kill him.

It motivated me into slaughtering him, to kill everyone...‖

―When you lost control.‖

―Exactly. After that it helped me survive against my first encounter after the

union. When... When I encountered Brizza I tortured her in order to get answers, the

voice told me over and over again to kill her, but I couldn‘t... I just couldn‘t. While we

fought Iccecold the whisper insisted on murdering both of you and today when the raven

came... I lost it. I couldn‘t control myself, neither did the voice. I heard hundreds of

overlapping whispers, all using different languages, but all saying the same thing. ‗It is

the beginning.‘ I didn‘t talk to him, the raven, I had no control, everything I thought was

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said, but with so much confidence and strength. I‘m fearing that maybe... The dementor

talked about me...‖

―Shadow, how can you think that? I may not know you from years ago but I know

that you could never be someone like that. No matter the circumstances there is and will

always be goodness in you. We will arrive soon, we will reach Ethan and everything will

come back to normal, you have nothing to worry about, everything will be fine.‖

―Thanks Kaezar, you‘ve proven to be a great friend. And as a friend I need to ask

you a favor. I need you to promise me something.‖

―Anything.‖

―If something goes wrong, anything, I want you to kill me.‖

―Don‘t be so cynical Shadow. Nothing will make me do that.‖

―Kaezar, I‘m asking you as a friend and I need to know I will be no harm to

others. Promise me!‖

Kaezar stuttered. ―I promise, but only as a matter of last resort. I wouldn‘t hurt

you unless completely necessary.‖

―Thank you Kaezar.‖

―Anything else you‘d like to share?‖

I smiled. ―Not tonight.‖

―Let‘s head to bed now, it won‘t be long till sunrise; we need to get some real

rest.‖.

―Finally some land!‖ Exclaimed Brizza. At the horizon the shape of an island could be

seen, covered with extremely large trees.

―Whew, finally inland.‖ Said Emmanuel.

―Looks similar?‖ I asked.

―Izeth.‖ Said Izak ―A fair sized port village. It will be best to stay there for the

day. A day to relax should be enough before we leave towards the door.‖

―Sounds perfect!‖ Lumina said looking at the others.

―Getting to Ethan is a our priority, but I guess a day here would be nice.‖ Krystal

added.

Kaezar walked on to the deck. ―Everyone, take one of these.‖ He handed the

twins and I a small green leather pouch. ―We should always carry around with these.

They are very important and you must take really good care of them. Each has ten

sinclaid in it, the pouch is enchanted and can hold any quantity of money in it without the

need of modifying its size. It also gives you the freedom to take out only what you‘ll

need, making your shopping more accessible; I‘m sure we‘ll need it from time to time.‖

―Better get your things ready, we will arrive soon.‖ Emmanuel said while closing

the sails.

The boat docked next to another two boats. ―Hope the trip was pleasant.‖ Said

Emmanuel with a smile.‖

―It sure was.‖ Krystal said. ―Here, the rest of the money.‖

―No need.‖ Said Emmanuel. ―When I proposed the price I was angry and

disturbed. The price was outrageous and shouldn‘t have asked for such a quantity. Please

accept my apologies and thank you for giving me a reason to explore.‖

―You have nothing to worry about, and the money ain‘t an issue.‖ Humbly said

the princess.

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―I insist, please don‘t.‖

―Thank you so much for taking us her.‖

―No problem, have safe trip and good luck.‖ The sailor got on the boat and sailed

away.

There was a gleeful melody in the air. ―We should head for the inn first, plan

tomorrow‘s day.‖ Said Kaezar looking for something in his pocket.

―I agree with Kaezar.‖ Said Lumina. ―But we could use the next few hours of

light to enjoy ourselves while we are here.‖

―What?‖ Snapped Kaezar.

―She is right.‖ I agreed. ―We have no idea what lies before us in this journey. A

day of relaxation can help us gain the strength we need.‖

―That is precisely why we need to plan what to do next. Come on, Izak, help me

out here will ya?‖

Izak who stood next to Kaezar had a surprised look on his face. ―I am no one to

decide what to do; I‘ll just guide you towards the door, but only when you all want to.

But if I may have a suggestion, then I would strongly recommend for you to fully rest a

day. I‘ve been through a demon door before and believe me, it wasn‘t easy.‖ Said the

silent wolf.

―You see Kaezar! Even Izak agrees with us.‖ Brizza said.

―Alright.‖ Said Kaezar helplessly. ―But let‘s check in at the inn first.‖

―Sure we will, then we can explore around town.‖ The ice princess said.

The docks were not directly connected to the town. We walked through a short

trail that led into the village. A vast forest surrounded both the town and the path. Many

folk walked the trail in both directions, all having their own conversations; still, no

seriousness was felt around, only joy was in the air.

―This place is very pretty.‖ Said Lumina.

―Yeah…‖ I said faintly looking at a young boy and a girl with long silver hair

who chattered next to the road.

―Everything alright?‖ Krystal asked me.

The kids looked at me simultaneously. ―Elves…‖ I whispered in a low tone.

―What?‖

Both kids continued to chatter, but glancing at us as we walked past them.

―Real elves. There is much I‘d like to ask them.‖

―You‘ll have to wait until we leave our stuff at the inn.‖Said Kaezar.

―Besides, they probably won‘t want to talk with you.‖ Izak said.

―Why would you say that?‖

There was doubt in his face. ―No specific reason. You are strangers in this town;

don‘t think it will be easy to get to know people here, especially elves, as they usually

stay close to other elves, almost never with humans.‖ He said confidently.

―Yeah well, I guess you‘re right. Either way I think it may come helpful to get to

know a few people from here.‖

―We should at least try to meet with the highest authority here.‖ Said Liminda.

―We can do that once we check in. After that I would really like to know around a

bit.‖ The princess continued.

Entering town we noticed how the floor was decorated with colorful stones in the

design of a sun. A large church stood surrounding the decorated flooring, as well as a

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school and a building that looked like an office with two soldiers with heavy looking

armors and a pole arm standing next to the large double door.

Next to the building was a small bridge crossing over a small river on the other

side of town. Just crossing over we found a two story shop called Heasi‘s.

―Should we take a look?‖ Asked Lumina.

―We could, once we are settled.‖ Kaezar said without looking once at the store.

―Jesus, sometimes you‘re a dork.‖ Said Krystal.

―Call me whatever you want, you love me no matter what.‖

Everyone shared a small laugh even the serious wolf showed a sign of a smirk.

Next to the shop was a fairly large two story high building; the inn in fact. Over the

wooden door a wooden plate stood and with golden lettering ‗Buelle Vista‘.

We walked into a large elegant and well decorated lobby with a desk right in front

of the door.

―Welcome to Buelle Vista, how many rooms may I help you with?‖ Said the front

desk lady who wore a long white shirt and foot covering khaki pants.

―Just two rooms. Preferably with three beds each.‖ The princess responded.

The woman looked at us with her green catlike eyes. ―No problem. Forty dinars

each lady and one hundred dinars for each gentlemen.‖ She gave us two keys the girl‘s

room was on the first floor, ours was just above.

―Once we settle we could meet on the lobby.‖

―Sounds perfect.‖ We headed upstairs into our room.

As we entered I let myself fall on one of the beds. ―Jeez, I‘m knocked out.‖

Kaezar left his sword and bag over his bed. ―You wanted to go around town as

well; they‘d be disappointed if you don‘t go.‖

―Yeah, I know…‖

Izak just left his bag next to his bed. ―Ready when you are.‖

I let my bag fell and stood up. ―Let‘s go then.‖

Just going down we saw the three girls waiting for us at the entrance. The

beautiful female warriors standing in a common matter portrayed their presence to all

who could see them.

―You sure took long enough.‖

―It was no more than two minutes.‖ They all just smiled

When we walked outside a troll and a man dressed in white robes stopped us.

―Travelers?‖ Asked the man.

―Are we that obvious?‖ Said Krystal with a smile.

―Well, we usually don‘t get many travelers, not since the union.‖

―Not just any travelers.‖ Said the troll taking a deep breath. ―A wolf, a half elf, a

sorcerer and three female humans. Pardon me but this is no ordinary party.‖ He said in a

husky tone. ―Who are you?‖ He asked standing completely straight towering high above

us.

―Just an uncommon traveling party in search of the necessary answers to achieve

their goal in their never ending quest of salvation.‖ Izak said in such a smooth manner

with a voice and expression that the whole party jaw dropped in surprise.

―Watch your tongue with me wolf. Don‘t you dare lie to me or –‖ He began in

rage but was interrupted by his friend.

―Wait a second Klave, I think they are telling the truth.‖

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―You‘ve heard it yourself Jess, what he said was just foolishness at its most.

Never ending quest for salvation? What kind of nonsense is that?‖

The man silenced the troll by raising his hand quickly. ―Who are you?‖ He

demanded.

―This is Krystal Cyrio, queen and ruler of the land of Glemfrost. The twins are

Lumina and Brizza Warmlink, powerful magic wielders. This is Kaezar Valdee, one of

the last Ethereal Masters. Izak, our guide, member of the Molganus clan. And I, Shadow

Realm, the one responsible for the union.‖

Both of them were astonished. ―What a peculiar party indeed. My name is Jess

and this is Klave, we are members of the church of Imogen and we believe that a party

like yours should meet with the governor of this town. Brawm, he is the commander of an

army nearby, he can be of aid to your journey.‖

―We would be more than honored.‖ Said Kaezar.

―Sadly he is out of town by the moment, but he usually arrives before nightfall.

You will be able to find him at the Mayor-General‘s office right in front of the church.‖

Said Jess.

―But we must go.‖ Klave interrupted.

―Ah, yes, I‘m sorry but we are late for a ceremony. It was a pleasure meeting you,

may Imogen be with you all.‖ The two of them left towards the church.

―You know it might be helpful to meet the Brawm guy.‖

―It would, but we will have to wait until sunset, we could use this time to look

around town.‖

―Alright! We can take a look around!‖ Said Kaezar helplessly.

Lumina and Brizza laughed.

―By the way, who‘s Imogen? I thought Arie was the goddess of that world.‖

―Imogen is another goddess, just like in your world ours is full with different

religions. Our heaven is stuffed with an outnumber of gods and goddess.‖ Izak

responded. ―So it is very possible that you find many different churches during your

journey.‖

―Do you think some of them are real?‖ I asked as we entered the church.

―As far as I‘m concern all of them might be real.‖

―Welcome to Heasi‘s, how may I help you?‖ Called out a little girl behind a

counter. She couldn‘t possibly be over thirteen though she had such a strong stare. Her

body was little even though she looked tall for her age. Her hair looked like a curtain of

black hair that flowed down to her waist. Her penetrating eyes were a beautiful gem like

green.

―No thank you sweetie, we‘re just looking around.‖ Said Lumina in a sweet

tender voice.

The girl took a good look at us. ―I know what you need.‖ She said with a wicked

smile. Opening a drawer below the counter she twisted a faucet like object and the

rustling sound of a mechanism was heard. The inside from the glass from the counter

turned around, new compartments opened from inside and outside the counter, all over

the room. Now everywhere was covered with weapons and armors. ―Anything you like?‖

It was filled with large amounts of swords, axes, wands, staves, pole arms, spears, bows,

quivers and daggers of different colors, shape, sizes and materials.

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―Some of these are amazing.‖ Said Brizza fooling around with a pair of daggers

she found.

―We‘ve got some of the best quality in weapons and armors. My dad and I make

them. And with a little extra cost we could get them enchanted.‖

Kaezar turned to her. ―Is your father an enchanter?‖

―No; I am.‖

There was a little sting in the air when she said that, even behind the blindfold we

all knew that Kaezar‘s expression had change. ―How old are you?‖ He asked.

―Thirteen.‖ She said with a wicked smile.

The ethereal master leaned on the desk waiting for the environment to tense.

―Your knowledge on this and your ability to enchant at such a young age is clearly not

human. What are you?‖

She just smiled. ―You‘ve got a very keen sight. Never had I met someone who

realized that I‘m not human. I‘m a-‖

―Hollie! Why didn‘t you tell me we had costumers?‖ A man with a wooden cane

walked down the stairs behind the girl.

―Oh sorry daddy, I didn‘t want to disturb you.‖

The man took a look at us and the weapons on the shelves. ―Hollie, please head

upstairs.‖

―But-‖

―Do it Hollie, now.‖

The little girl looked freaked out but obeyed her father.

―Not regular travelers, are you?‖ He said.

―I guess we are not.‖ Krystal smiled.

―I‘d like to apologize for if my daughter was inappropriate.‖

―Oh, not at all, she was extremely charming and convincing.‖ Said Lumina

―As a matter of face, I‘ll take these.‖ Brizza said while placing two blue crystal

daggers on the desk. ―How much?‖

―Seventy five dinars.‖

She got out of the pouch a few yellow coins and gave them to him.

―Pleasure doing business with you.‖ Said the man with a smile.

―All mine.‖ She said at him.

―Anything else you would need?‖

―I‘d like these.‖ I said holding clothing I found.

He took a look at me. ―You might want to have something more resistant, heavier

perhaps.‖

―No, I‘m fine with these.‖

―Suit yourself; it will be ninety three dinars.‖

I got my hand into the magic pouch for the first time; I could feel a pool of coins inside. I

grabbed a handful of coins and placed them on the counter.

―Pleasure doing business with you.‖ He said taking the coins. ―If you wish you

may try them on in the door back there.‖ Said the man pointing to a door below the stairs.

―I will thank you.‖ I walked past him and entered a small room with a tall mirror.

I took a good look at myself. My shirt was mostly ragged off. The belt was almost torn

apart, so was my jacket. I took off my shirt, revealing scars on my arms and the chainmail

vest I was wearing. I threw down my belt and jacket, slowly did I unlaced my boots and

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got them off. I held up the long sleeved black shirt I just bought, it had a peculiar dark

grey swirly design and wore a lace instead of buttons. I got the shirt on and a black pair

of pants over my leggings. I got on a new pair of brown boots. A gray vest that had too a

laced opening and the same peculiar swirls as the shirt; it had a large calf length flap that

firmly surrounded my legs almost in a complete circle. I strapped a brown leather belt

around my waist; it connected itself with a shoulder strap that crossed my chest and over

my left shoulder. I took my sword and sheathed it on my back with the strap; tied the

pouches on my belt. I took a pair of leather gloves, both possessed an extraordinary

design. The gloves were black with a grey layer over it that had a diamond like shape

opening that reached to the middle finger with a yellow outline. There were a minor

differences between both gloves; my left hand glove was rolled by a leather lace right

below the wrist, the right hand glove was fingerless on the middle and index finger.

Slowly I pulled them back and turned my hands into fists. ―Everything fits perfect...‖ I

whispered to myself while looking at the mirror.

<<You look like a true warrior.>>

I sighed.

<<Now you live up to the name you bear.>>

―Shut up...‖ I whispered. Only silence answered back.

―You look so different.‖ Said Brizza just as I came out from the room.

―She meant you look good.‖ Lumina said.

―Thanks.‖ I said with a smile.

―She is not your daughter, is she?‖ We all turned to Kaezar. The man‘s face

changed immediately.

―If you won‘t buy anything else I must ask you to leave. Now. And stay away

from my daughter!‖

―Was that really necessary?‖ I asked while walking out the door.

―Maybe not necessary but the girl is clearly not his daughter. I just wanted to

know about her, that‘s all.‖ He said offended.

―Well, you‘ve lost your chance now.‖ Said Krystal indifferently.

A commotion began in front of the office like building. We walked over there

quickly. Many women and children greeted the militia as they arrived to town.

―Just in time.‖ Jess, the man we had met before stood on the steps of the office

and cleared his throat; everyone went silent. ―Let us all thank Imogen for bringing our

men back home, for protecting them out there in the dangers of the world!‖ Everyone

clapped and cheered but soon went silent once more. ―Let us all greet and thank warmly

our hero, he who with a righteous fist swore to protect us, no matter the cost. Our

governor, Brawm!‖ The crowd burst into claps and chants.

―An effective way to keep the town in order.‖ Whispered Krystal with a slight

clapping.

A tall blond man with heavy looking armor took a place next to Jess. ―Thank you

Josuell.‖ He said in a confident voice. ― But you all know that there is no need for all

these. I just do what‘s best for our people.‖ He said with a bright smile. Jess whispered to

him, then signaled someone in the crowd. Brawm waved to the people and headed into

the office. Seconds later Klave showed behind us. ―Please, follow me.‖ The troll led us

towards the office.

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Inside the back wall was a floor to roof size bookshelf. A large writing desk was

located in front of the bookshelf. Three small tables were situated around the room.

Brawm came down the stairs located on the right. He was wearing a blue and golden

robe. ―Welcome. Please take a sit. Would you like something to drink?‖

―No, we‘re fine.‖ Said Krystal as we took a sit.‖

―It is always a pleasure to home travelers, but I‘ve been informed you are not just

any travelers.‖

Izak who declined sit answered. ―Word travels fast here.‖

―It sure dues. Ah, Izak, it‘s been long.‖

―Far too long.‖

―How is it that I may assist you?‖

―This party is taking responsibility for the union and the problems it caused. They

are on a journey to find Ethan, looking for answers to this chaos.‖

Brawm took a minute of thinking. He turned to us. ―You‘re so young. You‘re just

kids! There is no need for you to have such a burden on your backs.‖

―This may only be true to all here but me, this is something I must carry with.‖ I

said sharply.

―Now, why would you say that?‖

―Because it was I who caused the union.‖

Brawm‘s face changed to horror, excitement and curiosity. ―So you are the

wielder of the Book of Legends?‖

―Something like that.‖

―Can I see it?‖

I remained silent.

―We don‘t have it, when the union occurred something stole it away, that is why

we are in search of Ethan.‖ Kaezar said.

Brawm looked at some papers on his desk. ―I see... You do know you‘re here

claiming on something of critical importance which you have no prove -‖

―- Are you calling us liars?‖ Lumina boomed.

―I‘m not doing such thing, just pointing out some facts. I believe you because Izak

is accompanying you, but you must understand that that knowledge can‘t be given out to

just anyone who claims to be of great importance here.‖

―We are quite aware.‖ Kaezar said emotionlessly.

―Now, what makes you think he‘ll greet you?‖

―We‘ll cross that bridge once we get to it. I don‘t think he‘ll deny a visit by who

had to cross his demon door.‖

―But will you find him there?‖

―What do you mean?‖ I asked.

―Well, we know there is a demon door that leads to him but we‘ve got no proof

that you will actually find him there. Then, it has been recorded that it isn‘t as easy as just

walking into his realm.‖

―Know something we don‘t?‖ Izak asked.

―I couldn‘t tell, just as I said, it is recorded. I haven‘t gone there myself.‖

―Well, any chance is enough.‖

―Very well,‖ Said Brawm. ―Every demon door leads to a dangerous path, beware

of everything you encounter in there. Now, there‘s one thing I‘d like to ask you.‖

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―What do you need?‖ I asked him.

―If you are successful, if you do find Ethan; please tell him Brawm sends

regards.‖

“Glad to have you back.”

“This must be a dream, isn‟t it?”

“You can call it however you like but it is important that you understand what‟s

going on and what it is that you shall do, the consequences if you don‟t”

“I believe you made it very clear last time we met.”

“Then it is not enough. Don‟t you forget what‟s at stakes here.”

“Are you sure this is the only way?”

“Trust me, there is no other.”

“So be it, how will I find it?”

“At first you might not recognize it but you‟ll be strangely pulled to it. Once you

have it you must destroy it, immediately. The bargain has been made and the price must

be paid; he‟ll be waiting for you. Don‟t disappoint me.”

“I won‟t.” I said confidently to the fading image on the mirror inside the enclosed

dark room.

―Is everyone ready?‖ Asked Izak.

―Yes, we are.‖ Krystal said impetuously.

―Alright, we‘ll need all the energy we can possibly harvest.‖

Kaezar came down the stairs wearing a long sleeved long drill cotton green coat.

―Where did that came out?‖ I asked joking.

―Think you were the only one who bought something?‖ He smiled.

Just as we walked outside the inn we saw Brawm waiting for us. ―Leaving so

soon?‖

―We can‘t lose any more time, we‘ve got to get there as soon as possible.‖

―I understand; please take this,‖ He said handing me a vial. ―When lost take a sip.

You‘ll find the way.‖

―Thanks Brawm.‖

―Hope you have a safe trip and find what you‘re looking for.‖ Brawm returned

towards his office.

We were about to leave town when we got stopped by a voice.

―Hey!‖

We turned to see who it was. To our surprise we found Hollie, catching up to us.

―Leaving already?‖

―Yes dear, sadly we can‘t stay more here.‖ Lumina said to her in a sweet voice.

―I guess I packed just in time.‖ She said griping on her bag.

―What?‖ Snapped Kaezar. ―Sorry but where exactly do you think you are going?‖

―Right after you of course.‖ She said valiantly.

―I‘m sorry if we said something before that might have caused a

misunderstanding. You can not accompany us.‖

―Why not?‖ She said fiercely.

―It is far too dangerous for you to come.‖

―You know nothing about me. I can defend myself as well as you all do.‖

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―You‘re father would never permit for you to come with us.‖

―Don‘t you say that. He is not my father, besides it is my decision. I want to go

with you, explore the world like you do!‖

―This is no vacation, we might confront the most powerful and evil creatures to

ever exist. You may not come!‖ Kaezar said angrily sounding like an overprotective

parent.

The girl‘s eyes soaked in tears and ran back down town.

―I know you had a point Kaezar, but why did you to be so mean?‖ Brizza asked.

―You know why. It is for her own good.‖

The party left the city, lead by a high werewolf from the largest wolf clan our

worlds had seen, in search for a man we don‘t know if he truly exists who we suspect

he‘ll help us find answers to our wildest dreams. Answers in a world that cannot exist,

that it is not real.

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CHAPTER 6:CAVE OF WONDERS

―Are we there yet?‖

―No‖

―How much further?‖

―Not much.‖

―You said that an hour ago.‖

―We are almost there.‖

―You said that too.‖

―Now I mean it.‖

―So you lied to us?‖

―A little.‖

―We‘ve been walking for three hours!‖

―Are we there yet?‖

―No.‖

―How much further?‖

―It‘s impressive.‖ I whispered to Kaezar.

―What is?‖

―That he shows no sign of frustration.‖

―How long have they been at it?‖

―About thirty minutes none stop.‖ Answered Krystal.

―He‘ll probably end up killing them, or all of us.‖ Laughed Kaezar.

―I just find impressive how cool he is with it.‖ It had been hours since we left Izeth, it is

true that the trip has been long especially to Izak, the twins have been hanging on him the whole

walk, bothering him. Quite an entertainment to be honest.

―Do you hear that?‖ Krystal asked stopping us.

―Hear what? Other than the twins I hear only birds and... Water.‖

―Precisely.‖She began to run, she ran past the twins and Izak. The girls followed quickly

behind her.

―They are... Enthusiastic.‖ Izak said smiling.

―You‘ve got no idea.‖ Said Kaezar.

As we walked we found a river flowing next to us.

―We‘re here.‖ We got to a long ledge, where the river turned into a wonderful.

―Long trip down.‖ Said Brizza looking down the ledge.

―We‘re finally here girls.‖

―So where‘s the door?‖

I sect took off his shirt and tied around his waist and smiled, revealing a fully scarred

chest. ―Follow me.‖ He said sprinting towards the ledge. He jumped and spun me care then

falling straight towards the water pool.

―Has he gone mad?‖ Exclaimed Krystal.

―Does he really expect for us to jump?‖ Asked Brizza.

―Come on all of you, what are you waiting for?‖ Izak yelled at us from down below.

―Walden, I think he really means it. As always, being a gentleman, ladies first.‖ Said

Kaezar.

―Oh hell no! We aren‘t taking a single shoes for off in front of you two!‖ Blasted

Lumina.

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―Why not? I mean, Kaezar can‘t see. So it‘s only mean.‖

―As I said before, I‘m not blind.‖

―Doesn‘t matter if you two were blind, we aren‘t taking anything of!‖

―Well, we try to be educated.‖ Said Kaezar and jumped down the ledge.

―Come on, Shadow, your next.‖ Said Krystal smiling.

―Have it your way then.‖ I took off my shirt and chainmail vest, I got them in my bag and

threw it down the waterfall. ―See you down.‖ I let myself fall through the air. I fell at high speed,

the air pulled my hair upwards, as well as my clothes. I came crashing down into the pool of

water. Inside the water bank was full of strange colorful fish that appeared in many sizes. I swam

up and found Izak sitting on the rock.

―Refreshing, isn‘t it?‖

―I really near the door?‖

―Just behind the waterfall.‖ Izak, Kaezar and I swam behind the waterfall. We got up on

the ledge nearby. Almost the whole area behind the water flowing down was hollow.

―Whoa, this place is big.‖ Said Brizza looking at the high ceiling.

―Brizza, how did you get down here?‖

― I‘m kind of disappointed you had to have that?‖ MSN behind us.

―What do you mean?‖ I said in surprise.

―Remember their powers, Shadow, Brizza travels with the wind, Lumina is one with

light. It is natural that they arrive faster and without jumping into the water.‖ Said Kaezar.

―And what about Krystal?‖

The water from the falling stream began to freeze, forming the shape of a slide from

which Krystal came down.

―Well, never mind. Then we proceed?

―Sure.‖ Said Izak, met a torch from the wall and lit it on. ―Follow me.‖

We followed the wolf through a long dark path, illuminated only by the fire Izak late. The

only sounds were of our footsteps and water drops from far. After 10 minutes or so, we arrived to

a gigantic wall-to-wall, roof to floor, golden metallic door with a face of an old wise looking

man. The face and its beard were at the center of the door and covered most of it. It opened up its

eyes and stared fiercely at us with his glowing yellow eyes. ―Who dares to disturb me while I

slumber?‖ He said in a horrific tone.

―We need you to open up your portal to let us forth to our prophet.‖ Izak said bravely at

the door.

―For you to pass, wolf, you must complete my task. You should be aware of it by now.‖

―What is it then, what is it that you want?‖ I asked at the top of my lungs.

The door turned its sights at me. ―They're just an infinitive things want, half elf, and you

can't grant me the tiniest portion of them. But if you must walk through me, there is just one

simple thing.‖ He sight glided across the corridor. ―A sacrifice.‖

―What kind of sacrifice?‖ Krystal asked quickly.

―Blood.‖ The cave went dead silent. ―There is just one simple request I have only mean

you can't grant it. If you want to continue the journey. The blood of the most innocent must be

shed, only then you may pass. Wake me up once he want to go further.‖ The door went back to a

deep sleep.

We all remained silent. ―We must continue.‖

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―What? You can't possibly considered this!‖ Beamed Lumina. ―It is an outrageous

request! We can't seriously be thinking this!‖ She said losing control.

―Lumina, calm down.‖ Kaezar tried to help her.

―If we were to do so, who would be?‖ Brizza said it asked naïvely.

―We are not discussing this Brizza!‖ Lumina was outraged by this and pulled up her

sister's arm.

―It is most likely to be you, Brizza.‖ I said coldly. Brizza became pale.

―Krystal might be another candidate, but it is most likely to be you, that's why your sister

is so exalted.‖ Said Kaezar.

―We want to help, we want to, but I won't let my sister get hurt for this.‖ Lumina

tightened her grip on her sister, they were both very scared.

―Demon doors are tricky, but won't let you pass unless what he asked for has been done.‖

Izak called out.

―No! It won't be done!‖ Lumina advocated for her sister, who was paralyzed in shock.

―Lumina, please, step aside.‖ Said Kaezar grabbing her arm.

―No!‖ Lumina screamed in desperation.

Izak grabbed Brizza by the arm and took one of her daggers have. Brizza eyes flooded in

tears.

―Izak! Stop!‖ Krystal screamed as Lumina sent punches to Izak‘s chest. The wolf didn't

even flinch, he pulled Brizza out of her sister's grip and took her against the door. ―Izak, think of

it, we can't murder!‖

―There is no other way and you must go forth.‖

I was about to charge him, but Kaezar blasted me against the wall.

―Izak... Please don't...‖ Tears ran down her cheeks.

―I am so sorry, it is the only way.‖ Brizza slowly closed her eyes with tears running down

her sister screaming for her. Izak pulled her arm and opened up her hand, with her dagger the

wolf made a cut at her palm. He released the twin once a drop of her blood fell to floor. The door

opened its eyes and stared fiercely at Izak. He raised the dagger covered in blood and yelled at

the door. ―Blood of the most innocent, your demand has been reached, open your locks and just

go forth!‖

The door didn't look please. "This is not what I asked for!" It said angrily.

"You asked for a sacrifice, you asked for the blood of the most innocent to be shed, you

never specified on what terms." A large mechanism echoed throughout the cave. The door was

discontent, but slowly opened itself. A long, hard, loud thud was heard when the door opened

completely and fell once more into a slumber. Izak took a piece of his shirt and bandage Brizza‘s

hand. "I apologize for what I did." Brizza was flooded in tears and threw a hug at the wolf.

Lumina fell to her knees and Izak cared her up.

Krystal helped me up. "Izak, Kaezar, you could have told us." Said the Princess. "We

couldn't," Izak said was still in Brizza's embrace. "No one but Kaezar were in their right mind to

talk."

Kaezar walked over to him. "This is it then?" He said extending his arm.

"What do you mean?" Asked Krystal.

"I sect's mission was to bring us here, nothing more."

I turned over to Izak. "Thank you so much for your help. We would have taken a awfully

much longer without you. We have no way to pay you back for what you've done."

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"Nonsense. I am glad to help, I didn't do this to get rewarded in any way." Just find what

you're looking for and come back safely."

Kaezar and I nodded. Lumina walked over to him, head down. "Thank you..." She said in

a whisper glancing and her sister whose wound has been cared for by Krystal.

"It couldn't hurt any of you, I just looked for the best way to get you all through, safely."

"Thanks..." She said shyly.

He smiled at her. "Be safe." The lycan turned around and transformed into mighty wolf,

he ran off and disappeared from sight.

"Think he'll be okay?" Lumina asked.

"The real question is, are we?" Krystal said looking at the path we had forward.

Kaezar appeared a large and bulky wooden cane and stomped it in the ground twice. The

very top of the wooden cane got illuminated by a dim blue shining light. "We should get going."

He said, being those who were left, into the shadows of the cave, illuminated only by Kaiser's

walking stick.

We had been walking for hours, most of the time we all remained silent once in a while

to drink or rest. The way was really living there but every minute we were in the cavern, the air

got heavier in the past became more complicated.

―How do we reach that ledge?‖ Kaiser asked looking at the other side of the pit.

―If there were light, I could easily get there.‖ Said Lumina.

―Allow me.‖ Brizza said pushing them aside. Her body slowly faded and reappeared on

the other side of the ledge.

―Well done, Brizza.‖ Kaezar said grabbing a rope from his bag. ―Here, catch this.‖ Keep

through one end of the rope to her, who let it fall and slip off. Brizza was looking behind her,

looking for something

―Brizza!‖ Lumina yelled out.

Brizza turned slowly back to us. ―Sorry, thought I heard something.‖

Kaezar through the rope but her one more. Both of them tied each end to a wooden post

located at each side of the pit.

Krystal, Lumina and Kaezar crossed the cavity hanging tightly from the rope. I followed

close behind them; course it was not my intention to climb my way up the rope over the endless

looking abyss. I tried to fly over the whole but soon I realized that I couldn‘t, I don‘t why but I

didn‘t want to make the others to know. What is wrong with me?

―All set?‖ Brizza stood to where the dim light barely reached. ―Brizza, you‘ve been

distracted, something wrong?‖ I asked her.

She slowly took out her daggers. ―I... I‘m hearing things. I don‘t know if I‘m going crazy,

but I‘m certain of something; we are not alone.‖ We all stared past Brizza, into the shadows. If

faint short rustling like sound was heard; footstep like. The three girls got startled and took a step

back.

―We should get going.‖ Said Kaezar. ―And stay in the light.‖

We continued down the path for I don't know how long. Our walk was full of obstacles,

just like the ledge that elongated our destiny. Shortly we found a fork at the tip of the path.

―Left or right?‖ Krystal asked looking at us.

―I‘d say right.‖ I said taking a step to the right side.

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―Why would you say that?‖ Lumina asked me.

―Let‘s call it a hunch.‖ I lied to them… or to myself. What I wanted the most was to stop

thinking about the voice but it kept on swarming my mind no matter how much I tried, now with

a lot more frequency than ever. I got woken up by a loud thud that was heard from afar.

―Maybe that hunch wasn‘t as accurate as you thought.‖ Brizza stammered.

―I‘d back up Brizza‘s theory.‖ Murmured Krystal.

―You two are probably right.‖ I agreed.

―Then follow me.‖ Said Kaezar taking the lead to the left. I was glad that we were

ignoring the voice, but, I came to think; is it really for the party‘s best interest? Even though I

believe not to, I really hope it is.

<<Where do you think you‘re going?>>

I decided not to answer these calls anymore.

We found ourselves with a large black metal door. ―Now what?‖

―It looks firm, strong and heavy. Shadow or I can easily take it down.‖ Smirked Kaezar.

―Are you sure it is the right thing to do?‖

―It is possible it can be our way out.‖

―There is a large metal door inside a cave. It appears that someone doesn‘t want

something to get in. Or perhaps…out.‖

―You might be right, but do you want to go look at the other path? The sound we heard

came from very far, and it was very loud. Something big did it. Now if you want to go, be my

guest.‖ Kaezar said a bit overwhelmed.

―I was just stating out a fact; don‘t have to get so worked up about it. Jeez.‖ Said Krystal.

―Well then, Shadow, mind helping me out?‖ Kaezar and I blasted the door inside easily.

We entered a large chamber.

―As I said, someone wanted this place locked from anyone to get in.‖

―Or out.‖ Reminded Brizza. The footsteps we had heard before became audible once

more, this time closer… inside. Everyone reacted immediately by getting closer together where

the cane glowed. ―We shouldn‘t have entered here…‖ One of the girls whispered.

―That thing followed us in.‖ I answered as we had heard the very same footsteps before.

All of a sudden Brizza screamed as she was pulled into the darkness.

―Brizza!‖ Lumina launched at the shadows a blast of light and struck something that was

thrown against a wall. When it hit the wall the ball of light illuminated the complete room for a

fraction of a second. Lumina pulled her sister to the centre with us. ―Did anyone else see that?‖

She asked terrified.

―If by that you mean the hundreds of creatures that are hanging at the walls and roof,‖

Said Krystal sarcastically, scared and breathless, ―then yes, I think we all saw it.‖

A thud was heard before us. A shadowy pale figure walked out of the darkness into the

light. His body looked human like, incredibly tall and skinny, bent over itself, naked and

extremely pale. Its eyes were completely black, rat like ears, fangs and nose pushed in.

―Vampires?‖ I asked.

―Not likely.‖ Answered Kaezar. The creature snarled and jumped at Kaezar who blasted

him away. ―And hostile.‖ Kaezar planted the glowing cane into the ground and took out his

sword. We all took our weapons out and prepared for them.

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One jumped at me and I sliced it in half. Its blood covered me and adrenaline rushed

through my whole body. ―Bring it on.‖ <<That‘s my boy.>> I changed my sword of hand and

dashed to the wave of creatures.

A horde of them attacked us at the same time from everywhere. Blood was spilled all

over the room, they were very fierce but weak, I had lost count of how many had I slaughtered

and how many had I blasted. Kaezar scorched all who got near him. Krystal froze and destroyed

as much as ten of them every few seconds. Lumina‘ hands shone brightly, the creature that got

near her bursted into a shining light; flashes of it appeared about every second. Brizza on the

other side ran through the swarm of beings inflicting them deep wounds and cutting them with

her wind blades.

―Hey Kaezar!‖ I yelled.

―What‘s up?‖ He said while crushing two of them.

―Bet ya I can kill more than you!‖

―Are you foolish enough to challenge me?‖

―Scared?‖

―You‘re on!‖ He raised his hands and a few creatures in front of him rose to the air, with

a swift hand gesture the creatures were thrown to the center of the horde before me and

exploded. ―My kill.‖ Kaezar said with a grin.

Krystal had no trouble, she alone injected herself deep into the hordes and struck them all

with her ice javelin; freezing them in place or having them torn apart with a flail of icicles falling

through everywhere she passed by. Walls of ice grew from the ground and protected her

completely from every attack she received.

Lumina stood always on the same space, just the blasts of her hands and her sword now

and then made a perfect barrier for her against the thousands of creatures that roamed the room.

Every once in a while she made them burst into light, creating mini bombs that went infecting

every other that was hurt from them; quite deadly if you ask me.

Brizza traveled even with the faint wind that circled the chamber. She was swift and

almost never seen do to this; just the reflection of her daggers the instant they left a body. Even

though she was nowhere to be seen, her wind blades spawned from thin air slicing through

hundreds of creatures across the room.

No need to say what Kaezar did; in fact, I don‘t even know what it was. It was like

everything around him became his own weapon and defended him as if it were living and giving

up its life for him. The very sight of it was incredible and unbelievable.

After a while of everyone jumping into a killing spree things began to run out of control.

More and more creatures appeared from nowhere and those impenetrable barriers we had all

created had begun to crack –quickly-. It was only a matter of time we were to fall in deep danger.

―They don‘t end! They just keep on spawning!‖ Brizza fell to the ground; a creature had

got a hold of Krystal‘s javelin and struck her down. Lumina was fighting back like I had never

seen her before but it was almost all in vain. Kaezar looked in havoc; it was just a matter of time

before they got to him. Even though we tried hard to reach those who‘d fallen, it was all for

nothing. <<Do it now and run!>> I clenched my hand into a fist and punched the ground. A

dome of dark energy emanated from the ground growing with glowing ultraviolet dark shades

destroying everything that it touched. Soon the whole room was covered by the gigantic dome

and bursted into darkness bringing down the pillars that sustained the room. ―Run!‖ I told

everyone pointing at the free entrance after a sea of carcasses. We ran to the outside of the room

as it came collapsing down.

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―What was that?‖ Kaezar asked.

―Not quite sure, but we‘ve got to get going. I‘m sure it isn‘t over.‖ We hurried to the fork

on the road. When we reached the path we found it was swarmed with the same vile creatures.

―Looks like we‘ll have to fight our way through.‖ Kaezar blasted through them.

―Maybe next time you‘ll listen to me.‖ I ran past Kaezar with my sword in hand, slicing

through the crowd of beasts, opening space for the ladies to pass through.

―Why so hostile my friend?‖ Kaezar said while taking one of them off me.

―Just saying. We could have gone through here before it got infested.‖

―You know we couldn‘t risk it.‖ He said seriously.

I took a quick look at the girls who ran behind us, attacking the few that tried to catch up

with us. Kaezar was right, I knew it; just don‘t know why I had the need to disagree with him.

Something inside of me told me I was the one who was right, not him, but me. I told them where

to go and got ignored, that caused to fight these things and probably released something,

something far worst.

―Shadow look out!‖

―Wind Blades!‖

It all felt like in slow motion. I was about to crash into a barricade of the filthy beings.

Quickly I jumped high and saw the circular blades fly right below me, hitting up against the

bodies that fell down one by one. At the end of the creature lane stood a fairly larger one who

stopped the blades as they arrived to him. He was pretty much the same as the others, except that

he was bulky and looked much stronger. I fell on a knee before him, had to jump back to avoid

being hit by him. The beast jumped Kaezar who held the light rod; he couldn‘t respond quickly

enough and was sent to the ground. The cane fell and the light faded away. ―Is everyone all

right?‖ My voice echoed through the vast darkness and received a few confirmation grunts.

―Lumina, can‘t something be done with the light?‖

―I‘m sorry but I can‘t control it if it is not there.‖ She answered.

―Let‘s all meet at the center.‖ Said Kaezar.

It was no more than three steps that I took when I heard Brizza scream. I tried to run at

her but something clawed itself on my arm, I felt its face and blasted it away. The same creatures

we were fighting before roamed all across the room we were in. ―Kaezar!‖ I yelled searching for

a voice.

―On my way.‖ The sound of his blasts and slashed thundered through the room. We were

all blind against them without the light. We couldn‘t go forth and these things seemed endless;

what a hero I turned out to be, can‘t do anything to save my friends.

As I murdered the ones that got to me all I heard was grunts from the party. ―How is

everyone doing?‖

―There is no end to this!‖ Yelled Krystal from far.

―We need to try something else for it is only a matter of time until we fall!‖ Continued

Lumina panting hardly.

―Even though I hate to, I‘d like to agree with my sister.‖ Said the other twin panting the

same way.

―I‘m open for suggestions.‖ Kaezar said oddly.

A large cave creature jumped at me and threw me down. It fell over me and I couldn‘t

fight him back. The other creatures began to ravish my limbs and body. I heard four loud thuds,

then, the screams began. The screams of pain and horror. I couldn‘t do anything to save them and

here I laid grunting to the pain and everything fading slowly away, all but the screams.

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<<Weak.>> I tried to ignore it, <<You‘re weak.>> but couldn‘t. <<You deserve nothing. You‘re

weak like a dog and should be put out like one.>> ―Shut up…‖ <<Just let yourself die, do us all a

favor.>> ―Shut up… Shut up!‖ I struggled to release myself from the grip I was locked in. I

struggled over and over again, ignoring the cuts and bruises that were being made. I had to get

out, I had to find Ethan. While I struggled I was able to release my right arm and blasted away

the being over me. I pushed back the smaller ones, searched for my sword and hurried for the

girls who screamed in pain. I fell to one knee and more creatures jumped me. Damnit. As I fell I

was blinded by the brightest light I had ever seen. An empty strike came along with the light and

relieved me from pain.

Lumina rose from the ground with bright white eyes and light being released from her

body, illuminating the gigantic round room. All the creatures around us were killed by energy

expelled from her. Every moment I was in the light my wounds closed and I began to recover

energy. The whole party got up and went to the center with the twin.

―Lumina, what‘s going on?!‖ I asked her with my voice muffled by the strange gusts

around us. She turned to me with her bright white eyes and the gusts stopped. Many of the same

creatures kept on appearing in the room, most stayed clinging on the walls gnarling at us with

rage. ―Why don‘t they attack us?‖

―Would you like for them to attack us all at once?‖

―As long as Lumina‘s light doesn‘t fade away I‘d say bring it on.‖ A loud thud was

heard.

―Now Shadow, looks like we are finding out what was on the path you chose.‖ The room

was circular with many doorways, some small, others alarmingly large. Another thud was heard,

and another and another, and another, each closer than the last. All but Lumina took out their

weapons, preparing for what might come on forth.

Lumina stared at the archway from where the thuds were coming from; she slowly took

out her sword but remained perfectly still and dead silent. After a few more thuds a large

shadowy figure stepped out of the entrance.

Krystal and Brizza were intimidated by what came out, Lumina stayed still. Kaezar and I

on the other hand were not struck by its appearance or its size.

―Kaezar, can it be possible?‖

―I‘ve got no idea…‖ He said clinging tightly on his sword. It is hard to mistake his four

long horns, his platinum colored armor, his robust body, his hooves and wings. There is no doubt

this is Adramelech.

―Do you think he remember us?‖ I asked Kaezar skeptically. The demon tried to smash

us with his fist but we all moved away.

―He does.‖

―What are you two talking about?‖ Krystal yelled.

―There is no time to explain!‖ I answered.

―Just beware of him!‖ Kaezar continued. ―Shadow, remember how we defeated him?‖

―Of course I do.‖ I ran around him and dashed with my sword in hand. <<It won‘t

work.>> I slashed at him several times but he deflected my sword with his arms and pushed me

away. ―I think he remembers quite too well.‖

―He may know you but he doesn‘t know us.‖ Brizza said. ―Wind Blades!‖The two

chakrams appeared and spanned over at Adramelech at very high speed but he didn‘t even tried

to stop them, in fact it let them crash against his chest which of course did nothing. ―What the?‖

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―His armor is made out of the same material as Shadow‘s sword, it is almost

indestructible. Attack where he is vulnerable.‖ The grounds came to life and forming a slanted

pillar it smashed the demon against the floor, crashing too against some of the creatures who

were just spectating. This propelled the others to attack us. We had much to worry about

Adramelech, now a pest of beings is going to do our day even worst. The princess and Brizza

fought the minions while Kaezar and I fought Adramelech. He was almost impossible to beat, we

could do nothing against him, and it was like if he knew every step of us even before we did.

What is wrong with me? I finished him once before why can‘t I now?

As we fought the demon we were attacked by the darn creatures ―Lumina! We could use

your help here!‖ Brizza yelled to her sister.

Lumina turned to her, she slowly raised her hand to her sibling‘s direction, a large beam

of light appeared from her palm making every spawn in its way disappear; she did so over and

over again at different directions attacking the beings surrounding us.

Fighting Adramelech had become very difficult for Kaezar and me, we wanted to finish

fast because the longer he was alive the more dangerous would he be to the girls. He grabbed and

threw me against a wall. Kaezar hit the ground with both his fists, two giant rock hands emerged

below Adramelech which grabbed the demon and began to crush him, holding the giant still in

place. I got my sword and threw it at Adramelech. The sword successfully pierced through his

back. The demon let out a scream of pain. ―Kaezar, remember his most vulnerable part is his

back!‖ The Ethereal Master dashed under the big hooves and threw his sword at its back as well;

soon him and I began to barrage the demon‘s back with never ending energy rays.

―You unworthy vermin!‖ With his powerful wings and buffed arms he broke free from

the earth‘s grip, sending debris flying at us.

Kaezar, Brizza, Krystal and me blocked them, Lumina instead slowly evaded them.

Adramelech dashed at us and with the back of his hand he sent the four of us towards the

walls in different directions. The critter of hell stomped his way towards Lumina. The lady in

white raised her arm towards the demon, fierce white eyes decorated her beautiful face and

silently she began to recite under her breathe. A ray of light emanated from her hand,

Adramelech began to take really slow steps; it was like if the ray was slowing him down.

I felt as if my bones were crushed, my mouth filled with that warm copper taste. I wanted

to shout out for her, let her know how dangerous he was. ―Lu- Lumina…‖ I said softly, not been

able to reach to her.

The bright white light leaving Lumina‘s body got brighter and stronger, no illuminating

the complete giant room. With a step backwards Adramelech swung at Lumina who flew against

a cave wall. Her light dimmed but didn‘t fade.

My body ached and looked out for everyone else. Kaezar was still unconscious, blood

pouring from his hair line. Krystal and Brizza were awake but hurt not been to move. Brizza‘s

eyes raced and stretched out her arm in vain towards her sister. We‘ve come a long way to find

Ethan; I couldn‘t let it end here. I gathered strength and finally got up. Adramelech stormed at

me and I fell to one knee. I felt something burn up in my chest, turned up to face the demon who

was over me.

High above him, almost at the ceiling, in a small cavity I saw an impossible figure, but it

would be impossible to mistake him. He moved his head in denial; he winked at me with his

light blue eyes and smiled. He took a long dive; an ice spear appeared in his left hand and

pierced through Adramelech‘s eye socket. Adramelech drew backwards in pain and Iccecold

walked to me. ―Glad to see me?‖ I‘ve must have looked very confused, but he couldn‘t… He

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was exactly as I remembered him, the perfect and delicate face, his long blue hair, his royal blue

jacket, everything. He helped me up, even behind his metallic gauntlets his touch was healing; I

felt the pain starting to fade. ―Take a minute to regain your strength; I‘ll take care of him.‖

Thick dark purple blood oozed out of Adramelech‘s eye socket; a dark energy aura

surrounded him, he was pissed. Iccecold ran at him with his spear in hand, he rolled under the

demon evading his punch and pierced his back with the spear. Like an animal Iccecold jumped at

the demon‘s back before he could even turn and pierced his skin with his razor sharp claws. He

hanged there with his left hand and with the other he continuously impaled him, covering himself

with the black blood. Adramelech tried to reach him but his large and bulky arms didn‘t allow

him to reach far enough, at this he clashed his back against a wall.

Quickly I casted on him a binding spell. Four large shadow hands appeared from the

darkness of the room and held him in place by his limbs while Iccecold inflicted him painful and

probably lethal wounds nonstop. I began to blast at him continuously as I gained my energy

back.

After several tries Adramelech broke free from his bandages; instantly crushed his back

against a wall and jumped at me furiously. I met his fist with my sword and with a swift

movement sliced his left wing off.

Iccecold was touching the floor with the tip of his fingers; everything went freezing cold

and from the ground raised two stalagmites that went through the demon‘s back and chest.

Spitting out blood Adramelech tried to broke the icy spikes but he looked too hurt to do a

so. With my sword I penetrated his abdomen, I raised my hands and a cylindrical wall of dark

energy surrounded the beast. Screams of pain and agony were emitted from the interior of the

cylinder. When it disappeared Adramelech fell completely to the ground; he appeared almost

unconscious.

Iccecold walked towards him and grabbed his face strongly with his claws. ―Prepare to

meet your fate.‖

There was anger in his eyes. ―My death,‖ Said Adramelech slowly. ―Will mean nothing.‖

His skull began to crack due to Iccecold‘s grip.

―It will be my pleasure.‖ Iccecold held a terrific pressure on the skull until it was about to

burst.

―Allow me.‖ I said placing a finger to his forehead. A yellow light glowed. Iccecold and I

were covered in thick black blood; he chuckled as we cleaned our faces and arms. ―Thanks.‖ He

just smiled and winked.

―Shadow, that was amazing!‖ Said Brizza helping Krystal up. ―Who would know you

would be that good with ice?‖

―What do you mean? I wouldn‘t be able to do that if it weren‘t for Iccecold.‖ I turned but

the prince was nowhere to be found.

Krystal flinched. ―Shadow… Please don‘t joke about that again…‖ She looked mad and

went to help Lumina up.

―Shadow, you took on him all by yourself. I had never seen you move that fast!‖ Kaezar

was getting up. ―I don‘t know how you did it, but I must admit I‘m impressed.‖

Lumina and Krystal caught up to us.

―Sis, are you ok?‖ Brizza said worried.

Lumina just stared silent at her sister wither her deep white eyes.

―I‘m worried…‖ The twin looked at me helplessly.

―Don‘t be, I‘m sure she‘ll be just fine.‖ Krystal assured Brizza.

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We were already walking through the only archway that went forward. I was still

worried, thinking at what the girls said, Iccecold was here, he fought at my side. Guided by

Lumina‘s my ears began to twitch. ―Did you hear that?‖

Everyone turned to me. ―No, it is completely silent.‖

I took a small glimpse back and licked my lower lip, a coppery taste flourished through

my mouth.

―Shadow watch out!‖

That very second a long ice spear appeared at my hand, with a spin I sliced through a

couple of creatures leading a stampede towards us. In a swift single movement I fixed the spear

and created a large crystal wall, freezing all behind it. I was just spooked and surprised. Maybe it

was always just me after all. I took a look at the creatures, and then at my own reflection, I

noticed something very peculiar. My eyes were different; they were Tyrian purple. I stared deep

into my eye‘s reflection; in an instant they turned hazel once more.

―We should continue.‖ It was the first thing Lumina said since she began to glow. With a

nod we continued forward.

The way was silent, probably all hoping for the cave to finally come to an end but it

wasn‘t. What kept on scratching against my mind were my vision of Iccecold and my radical

change of eye color. Still I was floating alone in my mind when the party came to a stop. A

familiar wall to wall floor to ceiling metallic door stood before us. The demon door looked at us

with weary eyes.

―Interesting…‖ It said slowly. ―I must say you were much faster than what I expected.‖

―Are you going to let us pass now?‖ Kaezar asked.

―I was expecting more of an entertainment.‖

―You didn‘t answer our question!‖

The door looked at me. ―Yes I will, just remember, be careful with what you look for,

you may not like what you find.‖

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CHAPTER 7: TOWER OF ETERNIA

With a familiar mechanical clanking the demon door opened up. It was nightfall, shined

by only the moon and stars, a valley was foreseen. It was large and surrounded by mountains.

Right as we came out we got to a very large lake that crushed with the western side of the

mountains. Up front something that looked as the ruins of what used to be an immense tower.

And to our east the remains of an abandoned old town.

―So this is where he resides?‖ Said Brizza.

―Let‘s hope he is here.‖ Answered Kaezar.

―There‘s only one way to find out.‖ I said. ―Lumina, Brizza and Krystal search the houses

for someone or any helpful sign. Kaezar and I will search the tower.‖

They all agreed and parted on separate ways. Kaezar and I entered through a thorn down

entrance into what looked like a library. Towering shelves everywhere, some still occupied.

Hundreds of burned and torn books were on the floor and over broken tables. We could clearly

see the night sky above; the stone stairs had fallen apart, as well with the roof and walls.

―Amazing…‖ Said the sorcerer.

―Looks like nobody has been here in ages.‖ I said as I picked up a book from the ground,

dusted off the cover and pages fell just as I opened it up.

Kaezar punched the wall fierce fully. ―After all we went through. Nothing… Just the

ruins of our last hope.‖ He punched the wall again.

―Calm down Kaezar, maybe the girls useful.‖

―I highly doubt it; those houses will be as dead as this place.‖

I stared sadly at him, he was very disappointed. ―Let‘s at least start making camp, we‘ll

need to rest before we go past the cave once more.‖

―Yeah, I guess you‘re right.‖

Kaezar and I were setting up the camp fire and preparing a couple of rovmian loaves –

biscuit like sliced of bread that taste like a combination of garlic bread and pepper coated butter-

and a freshly captured aqua coloured fish from the pond; Kaezar identified them as Lameie,

meaning phantom‘s breed, when the girls returned with not very joyful faces.

―Didn‘t find much, I presume.‖ Said Kaezar emotionlessly.

―This places has been abandoned for far too long.‖ Brizza shrugged while Krystal

scowled.

―What about you? Found anything helpful?‖ Said the other twin.

―As much as you did.‖ I answered coldly.

―What a perfect waste of time!‖ Krystal called out. She walked around in circles babbling

about how we didn‘t had this time to spare and how furious she was, before she got into a small

yet heated discussion with Kaezar; he who tried to explain to her how this could have been our

only chance. She seemed not to disagree with him but it appears that she needed to make a great

fuzz about it because it didn‘t turned out as planned.

When we ate I was the first to finish, as it appears I was the only one not interested on the

conversations they were having; not that I didn‘t think that the plans had to be made for us to

fulfill this quest were important but I had other things in mind. I silently retrieved myself from

the fire –them without noticing- and walked to the edge of the lake that was closer to the demon

door than to the camp. In a single movement I splashed my face with a very refreshing handful

of water to clear my thoughts.

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I enjoy very much their company, all of them, but I don‘t want them to do this with me.

This is not their responsibility, it is mine and mine alone. I‘ve put them in grave danger, first

through the meeting with the wolf clan, then the Raven attack and finally what we encountered

inside the cave; I remembered as I washed the dried blood of my clothes. I must be the

companion they deserve.

As I thought of this a watched their reflection that was casted onto the water, along with

the bright bonfire. After a few moments of staring to the lake I noticed something quite peculiar.

The brightness of the fire was stronger on the rippling image, not just done by the camp alone

but by the windows of the reflected houses, I moved my sight a bit lower and saw on the water

the of a fairly large tower like structure with various windows that were lighted by the inside. I

turned upward in disbelief but saw only the camp fire and the ruins of what could have been

what I pictured. Disappointed I turned my view back to the pond, but the reflection was still

there. I jumped to my feet and sprung to my fellow companions.

In the struggle to grasp some air, in the dimmest-dark as the night sky-a body rose on the

large red velvet covered bed. A tall, fit, sleek man slithered out of the fine silk sheets and got on

a dark long night coat. Sweat drops rushed his for head as he turned on a candle and looked out

the window. ―Skrodd!‖ He shouted as he rushed downstairs. ―Skrodd!‖ He shouted once more in

a rough and firm voice. A red monkeylike creature with three tails and bat like ears jumped on

the man‘s shoulder. ―Ah, Skrodd,‖ He moaned coming to a stop. ―I need you to go find Agatha.

Tell her to meet me as soon as possible.‖ The creature nodded and jumped off his shoulder out a

window, it turned in the air into a blue eagle and glided down the immense tower and over the

small village in search for whom his master had asked for. The man continued down the spiral

staircase and entered a huge room that was like a giant closet. He stared at his emerald green

eyes, ―So close...‖ Once he finished changing he rushed towards the lowest level of the tower.

He marched toward the entrance of the tower. Just as he opened the large iron door he found a

short, plump like bodied woman in the white down and dark brown hair tied to buns.

―I hope you‘re aware of what time is it.‖ She said dully and made of mild gas as Skrodd

jumped on her shoulder.

―About seventy-two past mid-lunar flare, yes, I know it‘s the middle of the night, but I

swear, it is important.‖ He said, catching his breath.

―What is it, then, Ethan?‖ She moaned.

―They are here.‖ He said with a smile.

"Must admit it is an interesting theory, but not likely." Kaezar announced. "Look, there

are many things in this world that we can't understand. Many of these are tricks and illusions late

to our minds, probably made to protect something or as a trap." The fire was crackling smooth..

Brizza moaned a needle and her sleep and tightened her sleeping bag around herself. Lumina late

covered by her own bag, but remained awake listening to our conversation. Krystal sat of hers

reaching only to her waist. She looked very interested oon what I said but didn‘t dare to cut.

Kaezar was lightning the fire when I came to the camp. He had his stuff out already but only sat

on a rock as we spoke. I remained standing hoping for us to move right away.

―Believe me Kaezar, I understand what you mean, but it was no trick, I know what I saw!

I yelled. I don‘t like to argue or talk like that to a friend but I was completely sure of what I saw.

―Shadow, take a sit. I know we‘ve encountered quite several things that seam or are not

possibly real, but, what you‘re suggesting, we can‘t afford to try it, it is risky.‖ He said calmly.

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―And everything else we‘ve done? Every day since the worlds have merged we‘ve risked

our lives constantly!‖ I was simply losing it.

―I know we have! (Brizza sat up rubbing her eyes.) You‘re asking for something

suicidal!‖

Angrily I grabbed my bag and strode across the camp. ―I‘ll prove you wrong.‖ I

whispered grinding my teeth.

―Shadow, where are you going? Come back here!‖

I jumped into the lake. I heard nothing but the muffled voices calling my name and the

water rushing as I swam down. I have never been able to hold my breath long underwater. I kept

on swimming down even though I knew I couldn‘t hold it much longer. <<Hold on. Hold on

every second you can.>> I kept on swimming, drowning myself just because of my pride. Then

was one moment, just one moment, I lost it. I couldn‘t hold my breath any longer. I closed my

eyes and even though my complete body didn‘t want to try anymore I kept on swimming. And

then… I took a deep breath.

―Oh for the love of Ikaree!‖ A plum like woman carried me out of the lake and rolled me

on the towel.

I was taking very deep breathes and coughing out a lot of water. ―Who are you?‖ I said

almost unconscious.

―My name is Agatha.‖ She answered while patting my back.

―Where am I?‖

―Safe.‖ She gave me a reassuring smile and I passed out.

There was a warm sensation that ran through my whole body. Slowly I opened up my

eyes to the sight of a crowded campfire. Behind the fire was a pair of perfectly modeled women

legs, appeared that she was drying them with a hand towel. Once she finished rubbing, slowly

she got her underwear on. I shrugged and struggled a little, I was under various sheets. I turned

and finally was able to see the woman. ―Lumina?‖ I said faintly.

She appeared surprised, ―Shadow?‖ She hid her body under a towel.

I heard a gasp behind me; I turned to find both Brizza and Krystal changing. With a blush

I hid my face and looked away. ―S-sorry…‖

Lumina sat in front of me. ―Don‘t worry; we thought you were going to be out longer.‖

―How long was I out?‖ I asked realizing we were in a small crowded wooden hut.

―About an hour, an hour and half.‖ Answered Brizza.

Krystal who had finished changing filled a cup with what a kettle over the fire had inside.

―Here, drink this.‖ She said while giving me the cup.

I sat up and started drinking. ―Where‘s Kaezar?‖

―He‘s outside. He gave us a moment to get ourselves dry and change.‖

I shrugged. ―Sorry if I dragged you all into the water because of my madness.‖

The three exchanged looks. ―What are you talking about?‖ Brizza asked a bit confused.

―Well, the village under the lake that I saw; pure nonsense.‖

They exchanged looks once more.

―What?‖

―Shadow, you were right. We followed you down. Kaezar is outside with Agatha right

now.‖

I rushed the sheets off me, jumped off and darted through the entrance. Outside was just

as I had seen it. The shack was at the very edge of the lake, the houses were nothing like the ones

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we had seen, and even though night had fallen you could tell life circulated through them. The

tower was no longer in ruins; it stood tall with light flickering inside. Kaezar was standing with

his arms crossed, staring at the body of water while Agatha stood by him. ―Kaezar!‖

Both Kaezar and Agatha turned quickly. ―Shadow, glad you‘re awake.‖

The three girls peeked outside.

―Oh dear boy!‖ The tiny round woman ran to me. ―You shouldn‘t be up so soon! How are

you feeling?‖

―I‘m fine, thanks. Just a small headache. Now, could you please tell me what‘s going

on?‖

―I will,‖ She said. ―Once you put on some clothes, you‘ll catch a cold!‖

Suddenly I felt cold; I blushed once I realized I was only on my trousers.

Once I had changed back into my clothes Agatha explained why Lyla, their village, was

hidden. ―Hilia Emitter, the prophet that lived before Ethan, thought that allowing everyone to

enter the village as they please was very dangerous for all who lived in there and the prophets

who were going to proceed her. No one really knows how the prophet did it but somehow she

managed to create a demon door to seal the entrance, a door that supposed to be impenetrable.

Only those chosen and trained could pass in and out as they pleased. Many folk, in and out the

village thought this was mere madness from an old crazy woman. Many plots were made to

sabotage Hilia‘s plans to hide what the people thought was rightfully theirs. With time the demon

door wasn‘t enough; as a last resort the villagers who still supported the prophet decided to fully

conceal the village from those who weren‘t worth to find it. The tower that was left was

completely ravished and destroyed in search for the people and for Hilia. There is only a

numbered few who had seen the reflection and attempted to swim down the lake. We are so glad

you were one of them; of course Ethan always knew you‘d come though you‘ve been terribly

late.‖ Agatha took a deep breath. ―Now, I will escort you to the Tower of Eternia, the home to

every prophet since Isadora and Romeric, two of the first prophets from this part of the world

and the first and only prophetic couple. Guidance into the tower is a very, very unique privilege.

Only a low number of non--prophetical people have seen the interior of the tower and, of course,

the presence of the prophet. Ethan allows this because of a special interest he's got on you,

Shadow, and of your ‗peculiar‘ party. That interest is known to him and only to him. (Kaezar and

I exchanged looks.) Life as a prophet is so much different than in life any of you can expect, so

you may find him out of his hinges and a bit unorthodox. Anyhow you must always treat him the

respect he deserves. Sorry if I don't sound educated when I say this, but it doesn't matter if

somewhere else you‘re a queen, here you are just a normal girl." Agatha had referred to us all,

just before this.

It is clear she doesn‘t know Krystal enough to know she is no way bossy or imprudent

around anyone. ―You must know that outside my kingdom I treat most as my equal. I never let

my royal status take advantage.‖ Krystal said offended.

―We are yet to see that.‖ Agatha said seriously. She then returned to her warm mother

like tone. ―No please, follow me.‖

We marched through the field that separated the shack from the tower. Just before we

came through the entrance Agatha stopped. ―This is as far as I go. The number of times I‘ve

entered are very limited, I‘d like to keep it that way. I really hope you find what you‘ve been

looking for. Never the less, I‘d be glad to be of any assistance to you when you need it. My

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house is the green one on the second street; don‘t think twice to go look for me.‖ She patted her

bun and smiled. ―Off I go then,‖ She held open the door. ―He is to greet you at the tower lobby.‖

The door shut just as we walked in. The room was filled with warm candle light, floored

with a red carpet and decorated with moving framed pictures of what appeared to be previous

prophets who lived here. The entrance led to an open doorway where a very large (and

illuminated) round room was. A giant hanging chandelier hovered on the very center of the

room. The red carpet flooded everywhere and thousands of hundreds of books occupied the

spaces of the wall covering bookshelves.

―This is amazing!‖ Brizza cried out.

―It is when it is occupied by someone other than myself.‖ Quickly we all turned to the

staircase at the west wall of the room. There, a man was walking calmly, down, holding on the

guard rail. He was wearing black dress shoes with a black dress pants. A white shirt and a green

tie, covered almost completely with a long black tail coat. Emerald green eyes and long –

shoulder length- burned blond hair. ―It is a treat to have some visitors.‖ He said in a gentle tone.

―As you may have noticed that doesn‘t happen very often.‖ He crossed the floor gently and stood

before us. ―My name is Ethan Somerhalder.‖ He took a look at us. ―Where is Lucian?‖

We all exchanged looks. ―Who?‖ I was the first to talk after him.

―Lucian BlackWater? The werewolf that guided you here; where is he?‖

―It is true that it was a werewolf who brought us here, but his name was Izak, not

Lucian.‖ Kaezar said sharply.

Ethan‘s eyes turned completely white. He took a deep breath and exhaled loudly. ―Izak

WoodBurough…‖ He looked down. ―Twice already… Something is really wrong…‖ He

mumbled and sat on a chair, talking nonsense.

―Ethan!‖ Brizza snapped.

Ethan turned to her, his eyes returned emerald green. He stared at her with thinking

puppy eyes. ―Brizza Warmlink… Sweat and tender… Oh… I apologize. Please, take a sit, I

insist.‖ He waved us to various chairs.

He stared at us, very thoughtful. ―I‘ve seen this meeting so many times, yet I don‘t know

why. I mean, I know who you are and what‘ve you‘ve done, (I felt it all being said to me) but I

don‘t know why you‘re here. So, why are you here?‖ He said smiling. Ethan was a man who

portrayed a strong and serious presence; it wasn‘t easy to talk fluently with him.

―Well,‖ Lumina spoke. ―We wanted to ask for your help; as you know, of course,

Shadow was w-‖

―Would you like some tea? (He stood up and walked to a tray at a table behind him) Or

perhaps some coffee?‖ He returned with a tray in hand filled with numerous porcelain cups with

coffee and tea. He helped himself a cup of tea and sat back down. ―Come on, don‘t be shy. Now,

where were we? (He stared at Lumina and took a sip) Please proceed.‖

―Err… (Lumina grabbed a cup of tea) Well, as you know, Shadow was who caused the

union; we were wondering if you could help us find a way on how to revert this mistake.‖

―And cause a shattering once more? Now why would you want to do that?‖ He asked

intrigued.

―We are aware that both the shattering and the union have been catastrophic events that

have indeed caused numerous deaths. We also know that we are in no position to choose what is

best but we strongly believe that because of the lack of magical and mythical influences the

people from earth will come to meet its fate. Not only ‗earthlings‘ might be affected, as I

understand there are a very large number of differences between Aerie and Solumsomnium and

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the folk native to both worlds may be endangered by these ‗strange‘ things. We believe that

returning the worlds to their original state and let everything course through its natural order is

the best for everyone‘s interest.‖ Krystal took a deep breath.

―Natural order… The natural order is for the three worlds to remain the same! I

understand why you think it is for the best interest but I fail to see why should I help you.‖ Ethan

said calmly.

―Ethan, the last thing we want is for those people to die because they live in a world they

can‘t possibly survive. I already have to carry the burden for the deaths of those who didn‘t

survive the union.‖ I said sounding much more worried than I intended.

―And will you be able to carry the burden of the death of all who will die at the brink of

another shattering? As I said before, the natural course of this is for the worlds to remain

merged.‖

―You can‘t be serious?! You are willing to risk the extinction of the complete population

of a world?‖

―Your assumption is ridiculous, we don‘t know what could happen, but I assure you, if

you separate our worlds, millions of people will die. A shattering is so much more catastrophic

than the union.‖ Ethan finished his tea, his voice was very threatening but his actions were

gentle.

―All we want is to save those people. Of course we don‘t want this to become more tragic

than it already is but if we don‘t make it, I‘m sure more will try. We just have an advantage. We

would really want your help.‖ Krystal plead.

Ethan sighed. He stood up and stared out a window, into the night sky. ―There will be

war…‖ He turned back to us. ―Are you really sure this is what you want?‖

We all nodded. ―We do believe this is what must be done.‖ Kaezar said with caution.

―Then I will do anything in my power to help you. Your hearts are pure and willing to

help other with nothing for return. Destiny is yet to be written, perhaps, you‘re right after all,

what I said before was a mere assumption for what had happened before.‖

―And history tends to repeat itself. (Ethan agreed with a gesture and nod) But I will

assure you, we will make everything as possible to prevent that from happening.‖ Kaezar said

peacefully.

―Very well, I believe you. Now, may I have my book, please?‖ He extended his arm at

me.

Such simple words that stung though my body. ―I... I... Don‘t have it...‖ I said with a lack

of breath. The prophet looked at me with inquiring eyes. ―When the worlds merged, someone or

something assailed the houses on my street; looking for something. I haven‘t seen it since then.‖

―Oh…‖

―But I‘ll get it back… I promise.‖

―Don‘t worry,‖ Ethan said. ―Of course it is a requirement for the process of dividing the

worlds. We need the content and the magic of the book, besides there is much to add if we want

to take the worlds back to normal instead of just dividing the world in three. It might not be easy

but I may locate the book for you, but you‘re who must retrieve it.‖

―Sounds fair. Is there anything else we need? We‘ve heard that we need the help of a real

Mortisangelux.‖

Has been said that a true descendant of the Mortisangeli should be able to read the book

with no problem at all; even if the text remains hidden from those who the book believes isn‘t

worthy. Shadow has once seen its text so I think it is not necessary, but I would strongly

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recommend for you to search for one. Only a few are left, I‘ll contact a friend of mine, he is a

prophet as well, and he may know where you may find him. Now, I know it is very late and you

all must be terribly tired. If you accompany me, (He stood up and walked to the stairs) I‘ll show

you to rooms you may occupy.‖

―Ethan, we‘d like to discuss some other things.‖ I said as we all stood up.

―You may want to, (He didn‘t stop walking) your bodies are completely exhausted, it is

best for you to rest.‖

Ethan was right, our bodies were terribly tired, we crossed the demon door and before we

could rest we went down the water bed. Maybe I was being selfish, it wouldn‘t be fair for the

girls to go through all this and no rest. ―Fair enough.‖ I said ashamed.

Ethan guided us the tower he showed us numerous rooms, each with a specific purpose.

He showed us all to a room for each, except for the twins who wanted to stay together.

My room was huge; decorated old and elegantly. A large double bed with a large wooden

head frame. Drapes dangled over the bed and over the tall windows. Two large chiffoniers

decorated the room. A night stand at each side of the bed, with unlit candles and a set of matches

to light them, aside. A cyan colored apple was next to one of the candles.

―You should eat it; it‘s been long since you last had a meal, better have something in your

stomach.‖

―Thanks.‖ Taking that in mind, I was really hungry.

He slowly dismissed himself and left me alone.

I grabbed the apple and walked towards one of the windows. With every bite I took from

the apple, its delightful unnatural taste swept through my mouth and my hunger came to a

complete stop. <<You‘re wasting time.>> ―It won‘t help if I do it so soon.‖ <<Every second it

exists it is a threat to us. Listen, the whispers have begun.>> I tried to ignore it, ignore that

disgusting voice that crept into my mind and dwell its words deep inside me, but, every time I

decided to ignore it something terrible happens. Besides, he was right. Since we got to the tower

inaudible whispers swarmed my head. These whispers had been getting louder and stronger.

Even though my body begged for rest I grabbed onto my stuff and left the room.

I followed the whispers down the numerous stairs from the giant tower. With sweat

running down my cheeks I found a door from where the whispers were coming out really loud. I

bursted through the door, looking for the source of the whispers.

―Hello Shadow.‖ Ethan said emotionlessly looking out the window. The room was like a

private library filled with large batter books and a very old looking wooden desk. Ethan was

standing straight and rigid, he moved no muscle. ―I was hoping you‘d come.‖

I was sweating and wasn‘t able to concentrate very well. ―The whispers… C-Can you

hear them?‖

Ethan shook his head. He walked to his desk and layed a hand on a very battered brown

leather book. ―But I, (He patted the book) know where they come from.‖

I fell to my knees while covering my ears. The whispers were terribly loud and painful.

―Please… Make it… Stop! The whispers… A warning…‖ I began to scream in pain.

Ethan walked over me and patted my shoulder. ―Tell me Shadow, what warning?‖

I was breathing heavily. ―To beware him..!‖

He grabbed my face and shook it. ―Shadow, concentrate, beware who?‖

I felt my throat swollen. ―There‘s… There‘s no name…‖

―Focus Shadow! Focus!‖

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It was an excruciating pain. I tried to concentrate on the whispers, tried to search for a

name. A name… ―Aeron!‖

Ethan‘s eyes widened. ―Dear lord…‖ His eyes turned white and began to mumble.

―Ethan… The whispers…‖

Ethan kept on mumbling and grabbed on the book from his desk. ―The whispers you hear

come from this book.‖

<<That‘s it! That‘s the book!>> It sure was. Once he said I would know when I saw it.

Indeed it was calling me, not by name, but it called me to it. Still in pain I slowly stood up.

―Ethan, Give me… The book…‖

Ethan continued to mumble. ―You know what must be done for you to have it.‖

<<Kill him!>> ―Ethan! Give me the book!‖ Rage surfed my body.

―No Shadow, I will not! (He hid the book behind him and grabbed a sword that laid

behind the desk) If you want this book so bad, then you‘ll have to go through me.‖

<<Kill him!>> I chuckled under my breath. ―Ethan... Give me the book NOW!‖ <<Stop

stalling him and kill him!>>

Ethan swung his sword at me. With my sword I swiftly disarmed him and punched his

face. As Ethan fell I grabbed him by the shirt. ―What are you waiting for? Go ahead! KILL ME!‖

Even though rage was over me I stabbed my sword into the ground. ―I… I am not a

murder…‖

―Come on Shadow, you know who you are! The debt must be paid!‖

I dropped him and grabbed my head in pain. ―God… No… No… I am not a murder…‖

<<Murder him,>> <<Murder him,>> <<Kill him!>>

―Don‘t play fate Shadow. You did it once, Hector, and look what happened, you caused

the deaths of hundreds if not thousands of people. You are the murder of all those people. You

will become a murder, you like or not, you will become.‖ He said as he stood up.

―No I‘m not! I will not become a murder!‖ <<Stop stalling and kill him now!>>

―You are already one. Why don‘t you tell me about the cave?!‖

―No… That… (I fell to my knees; the whispers were unbearable) That was mere survival.

They attacked us first, I needed to protect them!‖ I felt desperate.

―You savagely killed many of those creatures. You will kill again for the same reason

you did before.‖

―I will not kill you.‖ <<What are you doing?>> I walked to him and pushed him to the

ground. ―I will not become a murder.‖ I got to his desk and retrieved the book from it.

―Do not tempt fate, Shadow; you know what‘ll happen if you do it.‖

―Too late.‖ The book burned in my hands. The whispers seized and I fell to my knees.

Ethan stood and helped me up. ―You‘re foolish Shadow.‖ His eyes turned emerald once

more. ―Why didn‘t you kill me? You know that was the deal.‖

―I am not and I won‘t become a murder.‖ I said with a sigh as I stood.

―I dislike death, Shadow, don‘t get me wrong. But for you to achieve your destiny you‘ll

have to have to do things you might not feel proud of.‖

―I‘d rather not be told what to do.‖ I said emotionlessly.

―Fair enough… But I do recommend you go to sleep. Sunrise will be soon and your

companions won‘t want to wait for you at morning.‖

―I guess you‘re right.‖ He was indeed, I have had no rest at all and Kaezar will be

questioning Ethan as soon as he wakes up; I wouldn‘t want to miss that.

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I remained lying on the bed. I almost didn‘t sleep at night, my mind did nothing but fly

around everything happened last night. Couldn‘t help but wonder, was I right? Did I do the

correct thing? <<You did…>>

Waking up inside the tower felt different than everywhere else I had since the union. Just

about everything felt different and difficult. Once I stood I noticed that sunrise had just arrived,

probably everyone else is still in bed. I stalked across the immense room into the large bathroom

with towering fountain looking tub. I went close to it and water flooded the tub. My body still

ached from last night. Slowly y undressed myself revealing freshly made scars. It's been about

two weeks since the union, I've been blessed with Shadow's abilities, that's the only reason why

I'm still alive. I wonder how everyone else have delt with it. I dipped into the warm water and

rested my head on the edge. My body was finally resting. I can't help feeling pity on the twins,

Krystal and Kaezar; they have nothing to do with this, nothing at all, but even then they've risked

so much, so much for me and every person from earth. It is all my responsability to make them

safe, to protect them.

For almost an hour I layed inside the water bed. I stood up in the water and it drained as

if the room itself knew I had finished. A set of towels were set on a marble table next to the 'tub'.

I wrapped one of the towels around my waist and walked across the bathroom.

A woman in a white gown, curtain-like jet black hair walked in unannounced, she strolled

all the way towards the ‗tub‘ and began to scrub it with the melody of a hum. ―Err… Excuse

me…‖ She ignored me and continued to polish out the walls of the tub. ―Excuse me…‖ I tried to

touch her shoulder but my hand went through her as if she weren‘t there; making me fall on my

knee. The girl gasped, her face almost as pale as her dress, ―I‘m sorry… I never meant to bother

you…‖ Her eyes became watery and her cheeks blushed. The girl quickly got up and ran out the

room with several sobs but she vanished before even reaching the door.

Unclear about what had just happened I dashed over to my clothes and quickly changed

into my regular outfit. Outside the bathroom I could hear continuous weeps and wails, so

instinctually I strolled out the room and found the same girl staring out the window into the field.

―Are you ok? Who are you?‖

―Strangers of Vesperia? It can‘t be… Outsiders perhaps?‖ She turned to me, her eyes still

watery and her cheeks were still red, even though incredibly white. ―Yes! That‘s it! Outsider!‖

All of a sudden she disappeared.

Still abashed I was, not quite understanding what has been happening, I turned quickly

because of a slight sigh behind me. The girl was staring at me, so close together that our noses

were about to touch. Her skin was whiter than any other I had seen before, almost transparent,

her eyes were bright blue and her mouth was a vivid red, but she was cold, I couldn‘t feel the

normal warmth a person usually expelled. She smiled.

―Oh Ikaree! You really are real! I‘m so happy! (She squealed) This might be the best day

in my life! Since I died of course…‖ She turned around, facing a wall. ―Or maybe when I met the

girl who I could swear she was at two different places at the same time… Or maybe the girl with

the ice tiara? Oh I know! The time I met the man with the piece of cloth over his eyes, hehe, silly

man how could he see with his eyes covered?‖ She made a loud shriek of amazement to which I

had to cover my ears. She turned to me with a huge smile. ―I KNOW! YOU ARE ALL HERE

TOGETHER AREN‘T YOU?!‖

I was bewildered. ―Err… Yes…‖

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She shrilled loudly. ―I‘m so excited! I knew it! This is the best day of my non natural life!

This place will be filled with so much happiness!‖ She screamed in excitement and banished

through the floor.

I was dumb struck, even though I knew it I wasn‘t able to bring it up to words. A ghost. I

was just speaking with a ghost and I had no idea of it. If it weren‘t for her saying she had died

she would‘ve fooled me completely. She looked so alive, what made me notice was that she

produced no corporal heat and when we stood close together she was almost transparent. Then

again, my hand went through her and she kept on disappearing, but even then I believed she was

alive.

Shaking my head, clearing it from thought, I walked outside my room, hoping to find

someone up as I realized that morning had broken. I heard screams coming from the bottom

floor. Quickly I dashed out my room and down the immense stairway with my sword in the reach

of my hand. Is there something in here that may become a threat to us? As I reached the bottom

floor, a base was broken and a small table was on the floor, Brizza stood in a defensive position

with her daggers out.

"What is that thing?!" Just up a bookcase a small red monkey like creature hid.

"Don't you think it may be just a monkey?"

"It's not! Just look at it!" The creature gnarled at Brizza, indeed it wasn't like any other

monkey I had seen, its fur was a various tones of red, three very long tails that slithered around

the bookshelf dropping some books down, two large bat like ears. The creature gnarled again.

"Marvelous!"

Brizza and I turned to Kaezar who was coming out of an alchemy room next to the main

library. "Do you know what that is?"

"I think I do, but if it is what I think it is it would be extinct. If I'm not mistaken it is a

Volgurt, a creature that can shape-shift into anything it wants, they became hunted because

people wanted to study them, experiment on them, and, of course, because of its colors. When

they transform they don't just mimic what it wants to copy, but it is also coated with probably the

most vibrant and beautiful colors you might've seen. Soon they became a trend, therefore extinct.

Or so I thought"

"I might know why; it scared the hell of me. It jumped on my shoulder all of a sudden."

Kaezar approached the bookcase where the Volgurt was hiding. The animal gnarled at

Kaezar as he came near.

"Now now Skrodd, be nice to our guests." Ethan emerged from behind, he walked to the

bookcase and Skrodd jumped on his shoulder. "That‘s my boy. Now, where are the other girls?"

"My sister is taking a bath, I"m pretty sure Krystal is doing the same. It is very refreshing

after what we've been through."

"Very well then, once they are ready we should meet at Agatha's; she and other of the

villagers have prepared a breakfast for all, I'm sure you'll enjoy it." Then he left babbling on

about what breakfast he likes the most, Skrodd running behind him, turning in between steps

glaring at Brizza.

"Looks like you made a friend, Brizza." Kaezar said joking.

―It is no matter of joke Kaezar! It almost scared me to death!‖ She exalted.

To death... ―Oh, that reminds me! I know this‘ll sound weird but, did any of you meet a

very frantic ghost by any chance?‖

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―Oh! So you met Emily? Quite a sweetie isn‘t she? And quite a conversationalist, really

amazing and interesting subjects she brings out.‖ Kaezar went on mumbling and mumbling of

several details about his meeting with her.

On the other hand, Brizza was cooler about her. ―He‘s right you know, she is very lovely.

But you did hit the spot, she is very frantic. Did you know she was the maid to Isadora and

Romeric? It is amazing what she has been through, though I think she believes Lumina and I are

the same person, all of the sudden she came up with different topics as if we had discussed them

before. Anyhow I think she‘ll tag with us for a while, looks like she‘s lost contact with other

living people for far too long.‖

Moments later Krystal and Lumina descended the stairway with an elegant delay.

―Morning.‖

―Morning sis.‖

―Is everyone up already?‖ Krystal said taking a sit.

―Yes we are, we were just waiting for you two.‖ I answered.

―Waiting for what? Have you spoken to Ethan?‖ Lumina asked while standing against a

wall.

―We have, actually, but he is still from telling us about the union and shattering, he has

actually arranged a breakfast for us with the help of the villagers.‖

―Has he now? That‘s wonderful! At last something worth eating!‖ Lumina exclaimed.

―I though you liked my Bunstram pot pies…‖ Kaezar said saddened and offended.

―Oh, we do Kaezar, just that we‘ve practically eaten those for breakfast since we left the

castle. It‘s good to have different stuff for a change.‖ Krystal said quickly. Maybe they don‘t

really like them after all.

Outside the tower was very bright, the valley‘s grass was raked uniformly by the wind, so

much more beautiful than the hasty cramped dark place we had seen over night. Life and

happiness flowed throughout the streets of Vesperia. Agatha happily greeted us just outside her

house. ―Oh darlings, how was your night?‖

―Lovely Miss, (―Oh please, call me Agatha‖) we appreciate this hospitality very much.‖

Brizza said smiling.

―Nothing to thank for, we are all very glad to see and meet people, sure you‘re aware that

doesn‘t occur much often. Please follow me to the park, we‘ve set up everything so you may

meet the folks in town and have a big breakfast which I‘m sure you‘ll need. Ethan‘s there

already, I really hope he hasn‘t finished the Grimlow‘s potato salad, he sure loves it very much.‖

Agatha carried on talking all the way towards the park.

It was a park indeed, right in the center of the village was a large patch of really green

(Like the rest of the valley, including the streets) tall grass with large trees and places were kids

were playing around, many benches and tables were together in a centered area were the people

were preparing for a town full breakfast. It looked as if all the town people came to a halt once

they saw us come near. The people tensed, as well as the environment, low chatter between the

folk was the only thing heard besides the wind.

―Ahoy!‖ Ethan enounced strongly while raising a cup. The whole crowd continued with

what they were doing and the gleeful feeling return to the air. Both Agatha and Ethan introduced

us to most, if not all, of the villagers. Many greeted us happily, others amazed (As if they had

never seen someone with our powers), and a few uncomfortable, maybe unwillingly.

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Indeed breakfast was incredible, looks like the village people normally do have meals

with every member living here, and everyone cooperated with a different meal. We tried from

Pumpkin Platter Jelly Pies to Belium Silver Corn Stew, Koornish Pastries to Wild Boar

Sausages. Plates containing different servings of foods were passed around throughout the series

of tables that were positioned together. Lumina, Krystal, Brizza, Kaezar and I sat next to each

other; in front of us sat Ethan who looked as if he didn‘t mind us at all, he just looked at us once

in a while.

After eating Lumina and Brizza began to play with kids who were running under a tree.

Krystal was being admired by a number of teens and older women, it appears that women have a

very peculiar interest on royalty. Meanwhile Kaezar was ‗harassed‘ by most of the folk who

didn‘t like us being here, ―What‘s the blindfold for?‖ ―Can you see me?‖ ―What kind of magic

do you possess?‖ ―Are you a seer?‖ ―Can you read my mind?‖ All so foolish and then some. I,

on the other hand, have been mostly ignored. Not that it mattered but the reason why was why it

stung the most. They know why I‘m here, why we are all here. I wish it hadn‘t been me. I wish I

wasn‘t the one who found the book, the one who read it out loud, the one who destroyed it all.

―Anxious, Shadow?‖ Ethan said while staring at me fiercely.

―What?‖ I hadn‘t really put attention to him.

―I know how you feel. I felt it long before you.‖

―I‘m a outcast, I am the bearer of a terrible burden that has brought nothing but death and

destruction.‖

―You‘ve brightened the path of what has been and what it should be. You are the one

who took a step forward in excelled boundaries. But it is true that people and creatures won‘t

find this helpful or correct in any way. You may very well be an outcast, but you know what, I‘m

an outcast too. I am bound to Vesperia, I cannot leave at will. I cannot see but through the eyes

of others. All my life I wished to see the world especially once they had been united. Now the

world is perfectly natural but still, I will never be able to see it. I‘ve been blessed with

knowledge, wisdom and an ability that only few every century have, even though I envy you. I

envy your disgrace. You are an outcast like I am but you are not bound to be in this place, in fact,

your destiny leads you to explore it all. You are blessed with true friends who are willing to fight

till they die for you and for what they believe is right.‖

My eyes became watery but I held back tears and strengthened my voice. ―What about

the villagers in Vesperia?‖

―The people here are family to me, they are loyal and strong. But they are not the people

who would embark into a quest like your friends, they wouldn‘t give absolutely every drop of

strength in their body for a greater good like you. You are a Hero, you are people who should be

admired. Learned of.‖

―No we are not, we are just some who will give their best to save as much people as

possible.‖ I leaned closer to him. ―I truly believe... That we won‘t make it. You know what I‘m

planning to do, Ethan, I really wish you don‘t make them know. The last thing I want is for them

to get hurt and I must get as far as I can.‖

Ethan stood immediately after I finished speaking. ―Gather your party.‖ He said in a

strong steady voice. ―It is time we get to talk.‖

Other than the crackling sound of the fireplace and the constant tapping of Kaezar‘s feet

in a single paced anxious maneuver everything was pure silence. Brizza was covered by a

blanket sitting on a chair facing the fire. Lumina huddled over Kaezar, tired of waiting. Krystal

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was standing, looking carefully at pictures all over the shelves and desks. I sat with a blank

expression and stared to a wall. Just thinking about nothing. My mind, since a long time, was

cleared

―How long?‖ Kaezar asked with the continued tapping yet trying not to move much

Lumina‘s head on his shoulder.

―Fifteen - twenty minutes. Perhaps longer.‖ Krystal said a bit frustrated yet still looking

at the moving pictures.

Clearing his throat Ethan emerged from a door we had not seen before. Ghastly as his

steps were he took a sit before the fireplace, next to Brizza. The others and I took a sit as well,

hoping for him to begin. Ethan stared at the fire for a few moments and then let out a strong, long

sigh. ―Where to begin?‖ He took another sigh. ―First you must all comprehend that I was not

there when all I‘m about to tell you occurred. I am telling you what I know from word by mouth

from other prophets and records that have been stored here in the tower.‖ The fire flickered and

crackled slowly and loud in this deep and intense silence. ―For over ten thousand years ago, as

you know, our worlds were but one, just as found today. Aerie* was the world‘s name. Infested

with power and magic the world had a unique pace in which all these coexisted, but as there

always are, there were few who didn‘t find this appeasing or correct. With riots and revolts these

people soon became followed by others who were weak minded or thought as they did. Soon the

thread of war came… Magical and non-human creatures were considered dangerous and

therefore should be eliminated. A war had risen but as foolish as they were to challenge the

magical folk, they got overthrown, ravished by their lack of knowledge and defense against this

formidable adversary, the people had no option but to back down and leave behind a word of

return. The war was fierce but short, of course these people were had no chance against their

enemy, but at the time, that was not the only war that had been occurring.

―At that time a dispute between gods had been unleashed, so terrible it went that it turned

into a war and Aerie was the battlefield. This terrible war lasted sixty four years. Would any of

you imagine how catastrophic a war between gods would be? Even if you can, it would be

nothing compared to how it was back then. Aerie was pillaged, ravished and practically

destroyed. No one really knows what the dispute was about or if it was ever settled but one god

named Ikaree (the one who anointed me as prophet) realized that the dispute was a scheme all

along, a scheme started by an angel, an angel who desired nothing more than the death and

destruction of Caelum (the place where the gods reside) and of all who dwelled in there. As the

highest deceit and treason the gods had ever seen his sentence was immediate death. But this

angel was no fool, not at all; he had far more followers than the gods feared he did; easily he was

freed and so he turned to Aerie as a place of hiding, even from the most powerful gods. He found

his way to the survivors of the magical war and made them an offer they couldn't refuse. He'd

grant them the power to defeat those who overthrew them and breed them into an invincible race,

all he asked for was for them to praise him as their god. He whose identity was never known

began to call himself Angel of Darkness. His people, in his honor, named themselves

Mortisangelux which means 'Death to the Angel of Light' referring, of course, to whom banished

their god.

―The Angel of Death nourished his power as the Mortisangeli praised him, knowing him

alone wouldn't be enough to destroy the caelestis he began to gather an army for him to execute

his long waited plan. This became known as The Great War. It took the Mortisangelux a

thousand years to become a enormous civilization, protected solemnly by The Angel of

Darkness. The empire was so great that only few dared to contradict them, even when they

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exposed their hatred against the magical folk, that they were 'unnatural'. Many believed that the

ideas of the Mortisangeli were pure madness, but they'd be the foolish to oppose a civilization

blessed and raised by a god. The Angel of Darkness taught each generation his ideal of

rightfulness and justice, of what was right and wrong, of course, his ideals were different from

all the other gods, but he didn't care, he was ambitious and had a lust for power greater than any

seen before. He lured them into writing a book which contained fragments of his power, due to

lack of distrust the Mortisangeli wrote it without a second thought. Thinking it was only records

of their civilization's past, the Mortisangelux accidentally created the most powerful weapon to

ever exist in Aerie, The Book of Legends. When war broke loose the Mortisangelux had an

advantage none of the magical folk had, the power of a god who come down to help them. The

triumph of his sons and daughters was crucial to his plan, but so was their defeat. He gave them

the power to overthrow their enemy and murder great battalions from the magical folk, but just

when the moment they needed their god the most..., he disappeared. In the midst of

disappearance the whole empire collapsed in despair. The magical folk took this chance to strike

them, making the perfect coup and bringing an end to the war. The godless ruler of the

Mortisangelux, Agnhan, retrieved himself into his hidden chamber inside the castle, in there he

found the angel. At first mad he yelled at him as how could it be possible for him to leave them,

then, afraid and filled with desperation the emperor knelt before him and asked for his aid. The

trickster saw this as his victory signal, he told Agnhan to take the book and to read a specific

chapter a loud. Agnhan doubted this would be enough but listening to him might have been his

only chance for survival, so he did as told. It was then when the shattering occurred.‖

Ethan stood up and served himself a cup of tea. ―Anyone want one?‖ He said as he placed

two tablespoons of sugar into his tea. We had all been caught by the story that no one had really

realized when he stood up. "No one? To bad, it is actually pretty good."

"What happened then? I mean, after the shattering?" I asked interested.

"The Shattering took the best of people, everyone was scared, no one knew what was

happening or what to do. Tremendous earthquakes brought down almost every tower, castle and

structure that were ever build. Thousands of families were separated; millions died in the chaos,

complete races were wiped out. Heaven split into three parts, each over one of the remaining

pieces of the world. It was the worst change Aerie ever had. The Mortisangelux sought this as

victory as the unnatural was gone, but little did Agnhan know that it was them who were no

longer in Aerie, nor was The Angel, do to this his empire fell and the Mortisangeli ceased to

exist. After the shattering The Angel of Darkness went missing and till now he has not been

seen. Some believe that do to the shattering The Angel lost his power and eventually died.

Others, including myself, believe he is still alive but hidden still nourishing his power for his

final coup."

"What about the book? Surely somebody wanted to destroy it after the Shattering."

Krystal said sounding alarmed.

"There were some, but it remained hidden by many creatures who wanted to bring the

worlds back together. Of course this wasn't possible if they couldn't find the text. The book was

stolen a long time ago by a Púca who found Shadow, knowing he'd be the one who reversed the

'spell'. I want to retrieve the book to keep it safe. According to the legend the book cannot be

destroyed; many tried before, burning it, tear it apart, slash swords through it but none have

worked. I'm not sure it is true but just for precaution I'll keep it safe inside the tower."

Kaezar stood up. "Can you lead us to the right direction?‖

―Of course I will, but it will take time.‖ Ethan said taking a sip from his tea.

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―How long?‖ I asked impatiently.

―As much as I need.‖ He said, ―I cannot always sense where people or objects are, it

takes time. Besides I need to contact another prophet named Rayder, he is most likely to have an

idea where we can find a descendant of a Mortisangelux, in the time being I will be working on

finding the whereabouts of the book.‖

―That‘s perfect! When can you start?‖ Lumina said excitedly.

―I‘ll contact Rayder in a few minutes; I‘ll tell you if anything comes up. Now, go on and

do whatever you like, I‘ll be in my study, if you need anything you know where to find me.‖ He

quickly finished his tea and moved out the room mumbling about something.

―Did anyone felt strange those last minutes?‖ Brizza said awkwardly.

All of smirked and let out a quite laugh.