Legend of the Kasul (PG-13?)

[Ayen]

Okay first off I suck at ratings so if I should change that let me know. *coughs* But I would call the whole thing a PG-13, but one part in Chapter 7... gah anyways.

Summary: Long ago a devil was born from the hellfire of hell and became a perfect pure demon, creating another demon called the Kasul. This demon went on to kill all the gods known to man and then later took on a dragon god and in the end lost it body and the Kasul was force to become a sword. Years later in a certain family sisters Ranko and Maricul would come across the sword. Ranko would find it and turn evil by not only having the Kasul but being posse by Nara which soul enter her body and made her as powerful as most pure blooded demons. Now the point is to unleash Nara full power out of Ranko and use her to help them find five crystals that are keys to unlocking the devil's temple. But I'm getting ahead of myself...


Chapter One
The Legend
Forget everything you think you know. Demons exist. Both in hell, and on earth itself. Staying in the shadows unnoticed by man or beast. Demons come in many shape, forms, and sizes. Some can even come in the form of your own human flesh. But every demon became more, and more impure as the years grow by. But there was one demon that never grew impure.
Born within the fires of hell itself. This one true devil was born perfected. Never having to evolve into something greater. It horns being tall and black. As it eyes change it glow from a lime green, to red, and even as black as the darkness of a tunnel. It whole body cover in green skin, as hard as stone. But only stronger. This one true devil was name Nara. And it pass on it pureness to another demon known as the Kasul. A shorter, and red version of the appearance of Nara. Years pass and the Nara finally defeated all of hell armies to escape the never ending hell dimension and enter the realm of earth. Where Nara took on earth warriors, and even the gods themselves. One by one each god fell by the hands of the Nara. Yes Nara power grew to be a match for even the gods. First the God of War fell at the hands of the true devil. Follow by the Goddess of Love. And before long even Zeus was no match for Nara. Then in that moment all the gods was destroy forever by the hands of Nara. All but one. Just one. For the one god Nara have never faced was but the Starlight Dragon god known as Semi. Legendary for it slaying of demons, and it holy powers rumor to be given to him by the heaven itself. One day it was but density that lure these two to meet. Within the holy temple of Semi Nara enter it unannounced. A long battle rage between the two. Both proving to be a even match for the other. And for days they fought. Neither one getting an advantage over the other. For they was truly even in strength, speed, and magic. For it was the Kasul that gave Nara his edge. As Semi was busy with fending off Kasul Nara took this moment to cause Semi blood lost from it body. Semi grew enraged as it curse the Kasul and destroy it body. Leaving nothing but it soul left in tact. Nara then retreated with the soul of Kasul as Semi went back into his peaceful sleep. But the Kasul would not stay wandering the world forever and ever being refuse to enter either hell or heaven. Nara mind was given another idea. He forge a great and mighty sword built for his size. From the fires of hell as he came from. The blade was built for no other. For it would be too large for any man, woman, or child. But to ensure creatures with great strength couldn’t hold this, he put a gravity bound onto the Kasul. For no one but it chosen can lift the sword and take it into battle. Nara went out into the world again to increase the Kasul power. Soul after soul was drain into the Kasul. Taking the warriors strength with each soul. For with every slash and damage the blade did to your body. It would take a piece of your soul into it blade. And once you died, your soul belong to the Kasul, and the Kasul alone. And only the Kasul could release the souls it shallow into it own underworld. Now with both devils growing in power they returned to the holy temple where Semi rested. Another long battle even greater than the last took place. Again both show they was equal in power in every way you can think of. But the powers of the Kasul is what gave Nara it edge. And by the end of the battle Semi was growing weaker, and weaker. Losing it soul to the Kasul blade. Semi acted in a act of desperation and curse the body of Nara. Destroying it body and leaving only it soul to be force to live off the life of others or else die. The Kasul blade was left in the temple. And when any servant of Semi tried to touch it, their soul was suck away, along with their energy and before long their body turn a black color. And they exploded into nothing. For no man, woman, demon, angel, or even the gods themselves could hold the blade. Unless it wanted them to. But finally man found a way to move the Kasul without touching it.

Chapter One
They built a box for it size around it. And then ship it into a small village and church to be kept there and lock away forever and ever. As there was no found way to destroy it. And even Semi himself could not destroy the blade. Semi went back into his sleep not knowing that fate had another plan for these three in the future. As the spirit of Nara travel through the world trying to survive off animals. It found a beautiful woman heading for a village one day. And enter her body. Full of life, and energy, and more than enough for Nara to live off of for a time. And as the wheels of fate turn it be known that the woman lived in the area where the Kasul have been long buried and lock away. Such a strange creature is fate that allows such things to happen, when you wish them not to. So for years Nara live off the energy of the woman until the day she gave birth to her first born. When the baby was born the soul of Nara left the mother who life was growing thin. And enter into the new born baby. The new life. The new energy source. And till this day Nara still live inside the woman who name is Ranko. As Semi still rest in his temple, and the Kasul awaits for it master to return to it. And so our story begins.
Fano was but a small city within the ‘New Country’ of the world. Nothing but land around the houses within the city. Enough for people to take walks, and for kids to play outside. The one and only building that overshadow the rest was of course the holy temple of the one true God. The city was run by the elders of the church. And the land was peaceful. But peace would be like a old friend, or family member you haven’t seen for a long dropping by. It would be there for a while, and then leave when time is up. And for the city of Fano, it time was long up. But some things take time to truly form on this planet. The priest of the church went by the name of Saul. He was a respected man in the city, and a well know priest. However like some, he did not practice what he priested. He only took the job to increase his image. In the public he was seen as a saint but to the eyes of his wife, and his two daughters, he was something completely different. A failure as both husband and father. If they dare speak up they would be whip for a time. Yes whip. With a real live whip on their back. They couldn’t go to anyone, for Saul was so loved the people would believe him over anyone else any day of the week. So they suffer the only way they knew how, in silence. I have already mention the couple first born, Ranko. A woman who has been a puzzle to Saul since she was only seven. Her hair was a blood red color and went down to her back. She kept it up in a pig tail for all of her days since she turn ten years old. Her eyes were a hazel color. But some times in anger they would change into a blood red color and stay there for a time. The second daughter was seven years younger than Ranko. With long black hair, and brown eyes. There was nothing strange about her at all. She was named Maricul by her mother, Eve. They was her life, but Saul only saw them as a disappointment. Maricul would always take the most of his beatings, as Eve would do nothing to stop it out of fear. And no one knew why Ranko did nothing. Was it out of fear? Could be. Or maybe it was the fact her heart was slowly being taken away by a force they have yet to hear about. But before a time Ranko and Maricul got along as any sisters would. In fact Maricul thought Ranko was all she had. Besides the father that beat her when she did anything wrong. And the mother who did love her, but chose to do nothing about the way Saul treated both her children. So the older sister Ranko was all Maricul had to keep her going. But again I sadly say no matter how hard you try to hold onto something, it almost always manage to slip through your fingers and you lose it forever. Now even Saul began to fear the new Ranko that seem to have appear from nowhere at all. Her eves have failed to change back to their hazel. But instead stay the color of blood red. Her emotions appear to be all gone. As her face was as blank as a sheet of paper with nothing wrote on it. The only emotion The Legend
she ever show nowadays was the emotion of anger and hate. Mostly toward her sister. As the once playing and laughing sisters turned into Maricul returning to her sadness, and Ranko giving into the hate and anger that the one inside her wanted her to. Now Maricul have lost the only person that could make her smile in the fear of their father. And that one person was replace with someone who beat her up more than even their father. Not as painful as a whip to the back, but Maricul knew no pain greater than a broken heart to losing a sister she loved, and still loved to this day. The sun rise on another day in the spring of the year. The red eyes of Ranko open to see the wooden ceiling of her home. She shared a room with her younger sister who was already sitting up on her bed. Looking out to the window to see the sun rising. A weak smile on her face as she lifted up her pillows in her hands and walk over to her sister. That weak smile turning into a smirk as she smack the pillow playfully onto Ranko face.
“Rise and shine!” Maricul proclaimed happily.
However, Ranko sat up growling quietly. Looking up to Maricul brown eyes with the red eyes that haunted Maricul even in her dreams. Taking the pillow from Maricul hands and tossing it away onto the ground. Maricul just lower her head letting sadness take her over again.
“You use to love that game,” she spoke softly.
No words came from Ranko at first. As she only look down to the fallen pillow and back to Maricul with a hollow expression.
“All right then,” she said breaking the silence, “Let play a game of I win.”
Maricul head lifted up in curiosity to the name of this new game. She watch as Ranko hand came up and grab her neck. Choking Maricul to a small extent before Ranko threw her through the air and over her own bed as her back crash against the wall. And she slid down to the ground. Crying to the pain and the sadness that follow her like a cloud all these years. As Ranko stood up from the bed and headed for the door.
“I win.”
Were the only words spoken as she headed out the door. Leaving Maricul to merely soak in her own sadness as she tried to cheer herself up remembering all the good times they use to have. But that only made her sadder that those days was gone. Ranko skip out on breakfast not at all hungry. The sun shine down on her red hair as she enter the spring air. Hearing the laughs of the younger kids playing games. Even in the mist of her cold heart she still remember the days where she used to do that with her own sister. But she push the thoughts in the back of her mind. Throwing them away as she had thrown Maricul through the room and into the bedroom wall near the window earlier. Ranko was only well known for being the daughter of Saul who was respected throughout the city. But even the children had enough brains to keep away from the woman that show no emotion. Lady in Red. The Red Devil. Two names given to her out of simple fear from the children. She paid no attention to their name calling. In fact the two I had just listed she quite agreed with, and enjoying being call such. Ranko found herself to the entrance way of her father church. Just staring up to the cross on the wall above. She had began to turn around until a voice whispered;
“Come.”
Ranko jerk her head back at once. Looking to the doorway of the church that was left open, as the two men in white robes was welcoming people to come in and pray. Ranko began to walk off again thinking she was only beginning to hear things. But again the voice returned like a storm;
“Come!”
Chapter One
Ranko turn around to face the church again. People passing her to get inside the church. Curiosity got the better of her. As Ranko walk forward and enter the church. The ground was a silver color. As people was seated and praying. Ranko walk down in-between the thin path that led to the front of the church. Where her father would get up and preach to the rest of them. Her heart filled up with hate then and now. As he would act like a loving and caring father to strangers. But heaven forbid he do it for his own family out of simple love.
“Come to me, my master.”
Ranko head turn to see another door to her right. She felt a sudden rush of power blow through her, like a secret wind in the room that only she could feel. Shivers down her spine, for the first time in a while. She felt power. And when she felt power, she couldn’t help but be drawn to it. Ranko took slow steps to the door. The voice repeated in her head,
“Come to me... For years I have waited for you... my master.”
Ranko hand wrap around the door knob. As she tug on it she found that the door was locked. Still her curiosity getting the better of her, she use her unknown enhance strength to force the door open as if it was never locked to begin with. Stepping into a dark place with no light in sight. But her glowing red eyes bled through the darkness. Like blood down a open wound. Following the voice, as it was getting louder. Proving she was getting closer to it location.
“Yes, come, come to me, come and release me my master.”
What was the voice. Ranko grew eager to find out, even if her face did not show such a thing. She then look down to see a large crate in front of her. The voice was loudest in this location. When she took a step back the voice lower in volume only by a inch. When she step forward it was like you had just press the volume onto your TV as loud as it could go. Ranko couldn’t take the loud voice anymore. She had to know what it was, who it was. She doubt a living human was in this crate. For it didn’t look that big. She press her hand on the top of it, and tore it open with ease dropping the lid onto the ground. Looking down to a large great sword within the crate. It glow a red auror around it blade. The handle black with the face of a red devil on it handle. And the blade was wide and tall, looking old and silver. With seven tapes around the blade.
“I have been waiting for you, my master.”
The sword move on it own, as if a child getting up to it feet out of bed after a very long and peaceful sleep. It floated through the air. Ranko finally allow the expression of surprise to invade her cool expression that was there before. As she could feel it power, and it demonic presents. She would love nothing more but to grab it handle, and take that power for her own. But she knew better than to take a great sword that look bigger than her hands could carry, and try to use it for her own gain. Not without learning more about it.
“Who are you?”
“I am the Great Sword the Kasul. I was forge by the fire of hells and made by my only friend to keep my soul in tact after a long battle. I have waited for years for the one that would release me and bring me back to my master.”
“And... I’m that person?”
And that seem like a duh moment for Ranko. But back then they didn’t have what you would call duh moments. They would probably say it was stating the obvious. This whole time since Ranko step into the building the voice have repeated to come to it, and called her master. But you know when something looks too good to be true, it probably is. That is what Ranko thought

The Legend
about all of this. It seems too good to be true. Her eyes look at the sword, showing in her face she wanted nothing more but to touch it, and claim it as her own. The silence between them was finally broken when the sword once again spoke within the depths of Ranko mind. The Kasul could not read her mind, but it was obvious to the Kasul that Ranko wanted it power, and now without her knowing, she has already fallen to his plans.
“Do you have any idea what lies within you?”
Ranko eyebrow rose to the sword question. Ranko had little idea what existed inside her. But she was smart enough to know that something of a unknown auror was living side by side her within her very flesh. She could feel it wanting out at night. Those pains in bed wasn’t any cramps, she knew that much. She look at her own right hand before looking back to the blade that still floated there in the air. Only inches away from her grasp. Yet she retrained herself from taking it.
“No...”
Was the only answer she could give. But she knew this blade was about to tell her what she been longing to hear. She couldn’t remember how many times her father have sent men over to try to release the demon from her body. But as always they didn’t even wake up the beast that share the bone, and the flesh of Ranko. And as Ranko expected the blade told her about the demon Nara. About the legend I have just told you three or four pages ago. Ranko just stood there amazed to hear the story about the devil that killed even the gods themselves. But of course the Kasul made Nara out to be a hero. Telling her how the gods was all corrupted and wanted to destroy the balance between good and evil. As Nara rise up to their challenge and defeated them all. Ranko was now already suck into the lies of the Kasul. She watch her own right arm reach out for the handle of the blade. Her fingers just begging her to grab it and take it. But she force her arm back, as her eyes look over to the blade. It had no eyes, and no lips. She had no idea if it even knew what she look like, or if it could see what she was doing. But the Kasul didn’t need to see or hear. It could track and follow Ranko auror knowing how her body moves. Knowing where it was reaching for, it was all too obvious for the Kasul. It own auror finally glow again causing Ranko to quickly place her right arm back to her side, feeling that the Kasul did not want to be touch.
“Don’t be afraid chosen one. Take my handle and together we can finish the work that Nara began. Take me... take me, my master.”
Those was just the words that Ranko had longed to hear. As she wasted no time to place her right hand on the handle of the sword. The gravity bound that was place onto the blade was broken off. As Ranko could move the Kasul like a feather. A sword that look bigger than her was being held in only the grip of her right hand. The only thing she could hear now was the laughter of the Kasul within her mind as she turn around. Her blood red eyes glowing ever so brightly now.
Meanwhile Maricul was still sitting against the wall that her older sister have thrown her into at the beginning of the day. She had barely touch her breakfast, or her lunch. And it was closing onto dinner time. In her hands was a black magic book. For years now Maricul have study the art of both black and white magic. Seeing it as the only defense Maricul could ever have against Ranko. Against her father, or anyone else that wanted to beat her around. She was tried of being the person everyone slap around. Even her own family. So she carefully read and study each spell from the book. Now closing the book and putting it aside she held up the palm of her hands from the ground. She focus her energy onto the wooden floor. As soon a vine grew, and from it was a yellow flower from the wooden floor. She pulled it out of the ground and sniff it lovely scent as

Chapter One
she closed her eyes to enjoy it. She then heard feet making their way up the steps to her room. She quickly hid the rose inside the magic book and then hid the magic book under her bed. As she stood up only to see her mother. With a worried expression on her face.
“Have you seen Ranko?”
“Not since this morning.”
Maricul watch as the worried face on her mother only grew. But Maricul was still wondering rather she should care. Ranko turned her back on her as a sister. Maricul was almost happy she was gone, and didn’t care if she did come back. Her back was still aching at the simply sound of Ranko name. Maricul sat down on the edge of her bed, still seeing her mom expression grow with worry.
“It’s almost time for dinner... Your father would be angry if Ranko doesn’t come home soon. Would you go and get her?”
“Why should I?”
Maricul spoke these words in a tone that took her mother face from worried to upset at just hearing how she said it. It was like her world was falling apart. Her husband beats her, she scared of her own daughter Ranko. And Maricul wasn’t helping matters any to her eyes. But she was the one that chose to do nothing about her life, but let it all drop to hell.
“Don’t take that tone with me Maricul. Now I want you to go outside and find Ranko and bring her back before your father gets home, you hear?”
Maricul just nodded as she stood up from the edge of her bed. Maricul walk pass her mother ignoring the arms that her mother held out to give her a quick hug before she left. Now the expression on her face was just sadness as her daughters no longer show the love they once did. And she would never admit that it was by her own doing that this had happen.
“Hm, she didn’t say bring her back in one piece,” Maricul whispered.
Maricul felt regret not hugging her mother but she gave little thought to it as she push the front door open and wander out onto the village. Hearing the laughs of the children, a sound Maricul hardly makes anymore. She only sighed as she asked villagers if they have seen Ranko. They only replied with either, “No” or “Who’s Ranko?”. She finally found her lead when she was told someone saw Ranko go into the church. Now Maricul stood in front of the church not wanting to go in. This was the church her father owned and priest in. And she did not like her father. She gulped as she force herself to enter the temple only to find her sister holding the giant larger than life sword, seeing no one else in sight.
“Ranko!?”
Ranko didn’t turn around to acknowledge her sister as she was still staring like a brain dead zombie toward the blade. Completely in love with it as she swung it lightly. It blade cutting through the air. Maricul raised a eye brow and wasn’t believing what she was seeing. How could her sister hold a blade that big, and it appeared to be bigger than herself and Ranko combined. Was Ranko really that strong? Maricul waited as long as she could which could be a while, but since she was in her father church she didn’t like to stay here too long.
“Ranko!?”
Still Ranko gave no reply as she continue to glare at the demonic blade with a lust for power in her eyes. Maricul groaned as she storm over to her and grab her shoulder turning her around, at once Ranko swung the blade toward her sister, keeping the pointed edge of it mere inches away from Maricul neck as her blood red eyes glare into Maricul’s brown ones.

[Ayen]

The Legend
“Ranko, calm down!”
Ranko lower the Kasul blade away from Maricul as the two sisters stare at each other for what felt like hours. But in truth it was only a full minute before Ranko decided to break the silence,
“What do you want?”
“Mother is worry sick, she wants you to come home for dinner.”
“Tell her I won’t be making it.”
“You know you can’t do that, father would be upset if he doesn’t see you there.”
“And are you afraid father will take it out on you sister? I found something that caught my interest, and I intend to study it more, so I’m skipping dinner.”
Maricul look down to the blade and had a knot in her stomach by just looking at it. She had a bad feeling about it and it only took her five seconds of looking at it to feel it.
“What is that thing?”
“That what I plan to find out after studying it. But if you must know it is the great sword the Kasul, and I found it in daddy church.”
“The Kasul? Wait, that thing was in here?”
“I guess daddy might have been keeping it. I was surprise to find it here myself, but I did.”
“Ranko, put it back! You’ll get father mad if he finds out!”
“Then he’ll just take it out on you like he always does Mari. This is my sword!”
“Ranko, put it back!”
“MAKE ME!” she shouted. Her voice echoing through the entire church as the tone of her deep cold voice gave chills down Maricul spine. Or maybe that was cause by the evil auror she felt off of the sword. Either way her hairs was standing up on end as she began to back away as Ranko step forward.
“It speaks to me Mari. It calls me it Chosen One. It baby.”
“What are you talking about?”
“It can speak Mari. It speaking to my mind right now.”
“A sword can’t talk Ranko, you’re losing your mind.”
“A demon can enter a child and make them as powerful as a pure blooded demon, and a woman can study witchcraft and become a witch, but it’s impossible for a sword to talk? You’re the one not making sense Mari.”
“Ranko you’re scaring me. Now put the sword back and let just go home now!”
“Make me Maricul. Make me put it back.”
Maricul just groaned, looking around the place. This wasn’t the place to fight. Even if she had no respect toward her father, she had respect for the house of God. She wasn’t, and couldn’t fight here. Maricul continue to step back as Ranko kept coming forward holding up the Kasul blade.
“No Ranko! I’m not fighting you!”
“Funny. What makes you think, I’m giving you a choice?”
Ranko rushed Maricul, swinging the Kasul but Maricul duck under it and ran pass Ranko. Spinning on her heels turning around to see Ranko running at her again. This time Maricul jump over Ranko but this was a mistake as Ranko spun around quickly with a burst of speed kicking Maricul to the ground. She saw the blade coming her way and extended her hands to grab the flat sides of it to hold it off. But as soon as she did this she felt a part of her soul rip out of her body and into the blade as she quickly let go and hiss in pain, rolling backward and getting back onto her feet.
Chapter One
“What’s the matter Maricul? Do you feel a part of your soul being suck away from your living body? Do you fear our power yet?” asked the Kasul within Maricul mind.
At first she thought she was losing her mind, but maybe Ranko words were true. Ranko may be violent and evil, but one thing she wasn’t was a liar. Ranko grab one of the pews with one hand and toss it up into the air. Maricul watch it about to fall on her but she launch a fire ball to explode into it and shatter it before it could fall on her. Ranko did another act of god speed as Maricul felt the hard flat side of the Kasul blade smash into her skull as she fell to the ground. Having a splitting headache due to the strength of the blade. Maricul began crawling as she tried to get away. Ranko was just playing with her now, stalking the area around her as Maricul used the pews to pull herself back to her feet.
“Ranko, please stop!”
“And this is why you will never grow stronger sister. You refuse to fight when you know in your heart you need to.”
“NO! There are other ways to solve things than fighting!”
“Foolish girl.”
Ranko rush forward again, leaving Maricul little choice as she saw the light hit the pointed edge of the Kasul blade. She shot out a beam of white light which was made of holy energy as it impact into Ranko face making her fall through the air and land on the ground. The feeling of such holy energy weaken Ranko at once as she couldn’t handle it. Maricul ran down to the end of the room and pulled off the golden cross on the wall with all her might. Holding it up as she awaited Ranko to get up.
“YOU MADE ME DO THIS!” Maricul yelled in anger.
Ranko made it to her feet and turned around to see Maricul charging her with the cross held at her chest. Ranko waited until she got in range and then spun the Kasul blade around chopping the cross in pieces. The next thing Maricul saw was the blade in her face. Moved to the right as Ranko head butted her knocking her back down onto the ground. The Kasul blade aim at her neck, barely touching her.
“I should kill you now sister.”
“WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?!” yelled out a male voice.
Maricul heart stop beating as Ranko turned around slowly. Both seeing their father walking in the church speechless at the sights around him. Though that silence wouldn’t last long as he would soon unload on both children.
“What do you two think you’re doing!? Do you know how this will make me look for people to find my children trying to kill each other in the house of God!?”
“Better question, should I care? You never did about us, you only care about your image. No place for a demon child and a witch for that, right?”
Maricul admitted Ranko had more guts than she. She would never talk to father that way as she proceeded to getting to her feet. But her heart sank when Ranko blab out what she was.
“A witch?”
“You see, you don’t even know what your own children are doing, how sad is that?”
“Quiet you—!” He cut himself off once he saw what Ranko was holding in her right hand. His eyes widen with fear in his eyes, as his body began to shake. His long brown hair started to stand on it wit ends, his finger rubbing his mustache as he looked paler than he really was. He appeared too fearful to be angry at Ranko at this moment. And if Maricul didn’t already have a bad feeling

The Legend
about that sword to begin with, that feeling have double just now.
“How... How are you carrying that?”
Ranko cock a eyebrow at the question that she found foolish.
“You see, I open my fingers and wrap them around the handle and then I lifted it up,” she said slowly and sarcastically so he could catch all of it.
“Don’t get fresh with me! How did you find it!?”
“Better question, what are you doing with it?”
“That is none of your concern! Put it back right now!”
“Make me.”
Saul was then quiet as Ranko only smirked.
“As I thought, a coward at heart.”
Ranko walk right pass her father as she exit the building leaving him alone with Maricul. You know those moments where you are so frighten you find it hard to move, even though you know you should be running but your legs just won’t work. That was how Maricul felt at this moment. Paralyze in her fears as her father glare at her.
“Witch huh?”
Maricul whole body felt cold, and was shaking greatly. The next thing she felt was her father hand grabbing her by the arm and pulling her with him as they returned to their home. As Maricul thought Ranko was not there and her mother was being awfully quiet as she was waiting for the others to join them at the table. Maricul gave her mother a pleading look to help her but she did nothing. She just cover her hands in her face as Maricul was brought to the back. Where no eyes could see. Leaning against the house wall, her legs spread out and her hands against the wall. She heard the sound of a whip meeting with the ground as Saul now stood behind her with a black whip.
“No daughter of mine is going to be a filthy witch!”
“Please father, I learned my lesson! I’ll never do another spell as long as I live, I swear to God—!”
“Do not make a swear to the Lord that you cannot keep!”
Maricul felt the whip slap onto her back as she screamed at the pain. But no one but her mother inside the house could hear her cries. The day has gone away and the moon was out in the sky, surrounded by stars. A beautiful night but Maricul was having a terrible day. Picked on by her sister, nearly killed by her sister, and now being tormented by her own father. The snapping sound of the whip continue for what felt like hours. Years even. Her back was crying out in pain along with Maricul pleading him to stop this pain. But no relief of halting came to be as she felt the whip hit her back again and again. She was force down to her knees after twenty whippings. Though Maricul was not keeping count, she didn’t care to. She was too busy dealing with the pain of the whip to even know how many times he had whip her, and how long they have been out there. Saul repeated the whips again and again as Maricul was crying her eyes out as she was now on her hands and knees, still begging her father to stop. The whipping stop at forty. Saul kick her onto her back and held his foot on her chest as she bit her lip to keep from crying. She could feel the tears sliding down her cheeks.
“Has the sin been wash away?”
Maricul was too choked up to answer in words so she simply nodded as Saul removed his foot from Maricul and went back inside. Maricul just laid there with her aching back. Some scars will
Chapter One
truly never heal. She was however grateful that it was just a normal whip, if it was the ones that the Romans used she would bleed to death now. And her back felt broken down enough as it were. She knew there was now new scars added to her back as she laid there on the grass. Looking up to the moon that met her gaze. She cried herself to sleep as she was too weak and too scared to go back into the house.

[Ayen]

Chapter Two
The man in black armor
Morning came as the sun rises up into the blue sky with white fluffy clouds now being blown across the sky with the help of the wind. Maricul still laid outside in the backyard after crying herself to sleep. She woke up to peaceful sounds as she heard the bird noises, and even a sound of a frog hopping by. Maricul could still feel the pain of the whipping she got last night, and the fear was still there. She couldn’t help but wonder if Ranko ever returned home after the events of last night. Maricul rolled on her chest and pulled herself slowly back to her feet, not wanting to hurt her back anymore than it already was.
Maricul walk over to the window and peak inside only to see no one on the other side. Maricul push the back door open slowly as to not make a creaking sound. She guess it was too early in the morning for her parents to be up on this day so she decided to just sneak out and go somewhere she felt safe. Was there anyplace where she did feel safe you may ask? There was but one place. Her grandmother did not live far from them just at the end of the village. It was the one house where she felt loved and welcomed, not only that but Saul didn’t dare try anything in the house of his mother n law. Maricul stalked through the kitchen and into the living room, stepping lightly against the old wooden floor as to not make a sound. She wanted to go upstairs to get some of her things but she was too afraid to wake up her parents to do so. She made it to the front door just to hear foot steps coming down the stairs. She push open the door at once and began running from the house. Breathing heavily and running like the wind. Some people never knew what their body could do unless they was feeling threaten. You’d be surprise how fast you will find yourself moving if you think or/and know that death awaits you if you dare stop to take a breather. Maricul was force to slow down her pace as she began passing by villagers making it to her grandmother house. Now she knew she could take a breath of fresh air in front of her house. Bending over slightly with her hands on her knees as she was still catching up with her breath. The house on the outside was white and made out of bricks. The door was a black color and dusty as the ceiling was a very dark grey that almost look black in a distance. The black and white house was a name Maricul always called it when she was little, and still did to this day. She walk up to the door and pray to God that her grandma was home as she knock on the door. She waited on the welcome mat as she hugged herself with her arms as she felt cold. She heard the floor on the inside begin to creak as her face lit up. Nothing but a frown all day and all it took to turn the frown upside down was the creaking of a old broken down wooden floor. The black door creak open to reveal a short woman at five foot three with long white hair that went down to her feet. Dress in nothing but old worn out gray clothes with her skin being winkle and old of course. She smiled lightly down at Maricul as she pulled the door open wider to give her room to enter.
“Come in Mari, come in.”
Maricul step in to hear her foot creak against the wooden floor. On the inside it was a bit more colorful as the wooden floor was a light brown color. The walls was a darker shade of brown with pictures hang on it in the living room. A old painting of her grandmother looking to be around her age hung in the living room. Next to it was the same girl but younger with who appear to be her own father and mother. And a latest one where her grandmother was holding her as a mere babe. The fire place was already lighted with the red flames burning bright and shining in Maricul eyes as she glance at it. Her grandmother which is named Rose sat down on her rocking chair motioning Maricul to take a seat. If she could she would stay in this house and never return
Chapter Two
to her father and mother. There was no danger here, no pain at all. Before she only had her grandmother and her sister. Now she only had her grandmother. If she lost that she wouldn’t know what she’ll do. But sadly she knew her grandmother was old and wouldn’t always be around, even with all the jokes she would make about out living them all. Maricul sat down on the couch next to the chair as she turn her head to see the doorway that led into the small kitchen. Hearing the meow of her grandmother kitty cat entering the room. It was a rare silver color kitty with yellow eyes as it went over and jump in Rose’s arms.
“Hello kitty. Now, this is a lovely surprise what brings you to my neck of the woods.”
“Just wanted to see how you was doing grandma.”
“I’ve been fine dear, and how about you?”
Maricul froze on that moment. She was dying to tell her grandmother everything. Everything about the ways her father treated her back home. Everything about the ways her mother just sat in silence and did nothing. Everything about her older sister picking on her, and nearly killing her the other day with a sword half her size. But she knew that was too good to be true, as she would never believe her. Even though her back ache from the scars of last night, she couldn’t tell her anything.
“I’m, okay...”
“Oh good, and how is Ranko dear doing?”
Maricul was tempted to let a hint of sarcasm in her next words but knowing her grandmother she would catch it as soon as she said it. And she didn’t want a nice visit to turn into something bad, as she wanted to think of good things not ponder on the bad like her sister and father. She had enough time to do that on her own back home.
“Ranko is, just Ranko.”
While they sat down and chat the silver kitty named Ko-Ko jump down from Rose lap and walk over to the feet of Maricul. Maricul always found something strange about the silver cat, and it yellow eyes to boot. It jump up on the couch next to Maricul and laid down on her lap as she look down and smiled at it.
“Hi Ko-Ko,” she said happily rubbing behind it ears.
It meow happily as Rose slowly got out of her chair.
“Do you want anything to drink Mari dear?”
“Water will be fine grandma.”
When she left the room and into the kitchen Maricul look over to the fireplace again. Feeling a strange peace as she watch the flames burn brightly. Ko-Ko jump out of Maricul arms meowing to get Maricul attention as it walk off for the stair case that led to the second floor.
“Where you going kitty?”
Ko-Ko stopped every now and then looking back to Maricul as if looking back to see if Maricul was following. It began hopping up the steps as Maricul stood up and walk after her. Even the steps creak as Maricul went up them one by one to the hallway on the second floor. Passing by the bedroom that she assumed her mother once stayed in when she was a little girl. And another bedroom fit for two people, obviously her grandparents room. The silver glowing cat then led her into a darker room lit up by candles. And around the circle room was swords and axes all over it walls. Shields that had drawings of dragons, lions, tigers, and snakes. As Ko-Ko stood on a large brown box that look like a chest. Maricul never been to this room before, in fact she never dared to go upstairs before. She always stay in the living room or kitchen talking with her grandmother.
The man in black armor
She found no reason before to go up here, but now she was very curious. She was curious why the cat had led her here. Ko-Ko jump off the top of the box as Maricul found the snaps to it and lifted them up. Pulling up the box lid to reveal a sword that match the size of the Kasul. In a gold sheathe that had the image of a dragon on it. And the black hilt that had the picture of a white dragon face on it with blue eyes like sapphire. Maricul couldn’t believe there was a sword that rival Ranko’s in size in her grandmother house. She was tempted to take it and practice with it so she could show her sister a lesson she won’t soon forget. But she couldn’t steal it from her grandmother. And asking for it would lead to a conversation Maricul did not want to have. She glance over to the kitty who had led her to this. Maricul wrap her fingers around the sword hilt and her other hand under the sheathe. She tried to lift it but it felt too heavy. She couldn’t even budge it, it felt like one human trying to lift up a giant mansion. Impossible. Maricul let go of it with a grunt sound as she sat down on the ground in front of the box.
“Why did you lead me here Ko-Ko?”
Maricul look into the yellow eyes of the kitty as if she was expecting it to speak and answer the question. But she knew cats couldn’t talk, least not to the best of her knowledge. But this cat was already a special kind of cat. It was glowing silver, Maricul never knew why it glowed such a color. Her grandmother just said it was a special kitty, and Maricul left it at that. But why did her grandmother have all of these swords and weapons on her walls? And why did she have a sword the same size as Ranko’s? Could Ranko come in here and pick that sword up no problem like she does with the Kasul? But unlike the Kasul Maricul received no vibe from the sword. No evil auror, nor good auror. Just a normal sword that was larger than life.
“Mari?”
Maricul froze like ice when she heard her grandmother from behind her. She turned her head slowly seeing Rose with her cup of water in her right hand.
“I didn’t see you downstairs so I came looking. What are you doing up here?”
“I was just looking,” Maricul answered quickly, “Ko-Ko led me here.”
“Did he now?” she asked looking down at Ko-Ko who was laying down curl and comfy on the floor.
Maricul pulled herself up to her feet as Rose gave her the cup of water, and went over picking up Ko-Ko.
“Why do you have so many swords grandma?”
“Your grandpa made weapons, he hung them here for display to show them off. Some times people would ask if they could train with them for a little bit.”
“What about that one?” she asked pointing over to the larger than life sword.
“That one he found on one of his journeys, legend has it, it was the sword that held the Semi Starlight Dragon god spirit inside. But his spirt left the blade after the war of history once it found that humans sin was too great for it to allow humans to even see the blade. But your grandfather found it in a temple and brought it here.”
“He must be strong as hell, I can’t even lift the thing.”
Rose giggle before getting serious again, “Don’t say hell sweetie. And no he couldn’t lift it either. He could only move the box that it was inside of. Legend has it if the spirit of Semi returns to the blade and if it chooses a person to hold the blade that person can hold it like a feather.”
Maricul eyes widen at her words. Remembering the other day where she fought Ranko holding a
Chapter Two
blade the same size as this one. Did the same rules apply? That have to be it, there’s no other way Ranko could hold that sword and she did say it said she was it ‘Chosen One’.
“Isn’t there another sword like this?”
“No, it’s one of a kind. Why?”
Maricul look over to Rose eyes who appeared to be curious at her question as Maricul just smiled lightly waving it off.
“No reason, no reason at all.”
Rose continue to give Maricul her curious look as she rub her index and middle fingers on the head of Ko-Ko before turning around and heading for the doorway.
“Anyway, come with me, there’s something else I want to show you.”
Maricul raised a eye brow as she followed Rose out of the room. What else could there be for her to see. A room cover in swords and one huge legendary sword seemed like it would be the highlight of Maricul day. And it made her wonder more about her grandfather. Rose led her into her room and went over picking up a white necklace that had a small angel at the end of it.
“What’s that?” Maricul asked gazing at the necklace.
“A necklace,” she began stating the obvious, “It’s something you put around your neck and wear.”
Maricul just giggle and rolled her eyes. Rose always manage to make her smile, even when she was being serious. Ko-Ko was now laying on the bed with it eyes closed looking comfy again as Rose led Maricul over to the chairs in the room, and motion Maricul to sit down. Rose sat down after her and held out the necklace.
“This was a gift to my great-great-great-great grandmother who passed it down through our family for many years until it finally came to me. I never let it out of my sight as it was the only memory I had from my mother after she died. I was going to give it to your mother but, well I need not get into that. But now since you will be a woman soon, I wanted to give it to you.”
She held it up and slip it pass Maricul head as it dangle on her neck. Maricul pick up the small angel piece and look it over.
“And now it’s your turn to wear it.”
Maricul smiled completely cover her face as she didn’t know what to think. She felt so honor to have this over her mother, and even over Ranko. She wrap her arms over Rose and embrace her in a hug as her smile was never failing.
“Thank you.”
“Your welcome. Shouldn’t you be getting home now dear?”
Maricul felt like everything was crashing down in a fiery inferno when she said that. Maricul wish she could stay here but she knew she couldn’t. Maricul remove her arms around from Rose and did her best to hide her sadness as she put on a fake smile.
“See you later then grandmother.”
She over did the smile too much to the point where it just look fake. Leaving Rose with a confused facial expression as Maricul turned around and walk out of the room. Proceeding down the stairs and out the front door. Meanwhile Ko-Ko the kitty had one eye open, as if it knew exactly why Maricul behave the way she did.
Meanwhile outside the city of Fano the sun was up high as afternoon soon came. There was a few buildings and camps outside the city that was forbidden to enter the city. Camps of mercenaries and rogues that goes out killing goblins and orcs when they got too close to the
The man in black armor
camps for comfort. Now in the middle of nowhere Ranko stood on the grass with the sun shining down on her and the Kasul blade that she firmly held in her right hand. Her eyes was closed as the Kasul told her to shut them. Trying to get her to feel the devil within her human flesh. She stood there for one full hour now, never moving.
“Can you feel it?” began the Kasul, “Can you feel the power inside you?”
“No...”
It has been a hour now and so far Ranko couldn’t feel what the Kasul was telling her she could feel. She didn’t at once find it hard to believe a demon was living inside her. It simply explained why her father was so afraid of her. Why she could do so many things women her size could not do with her strength and bursts of speed. But no matter how hard she tried she couldn’t feel what was inside. At least not yet.
“You can’t feel it? The devil within you? It power glows dimly in it Chosen One my baby.”
Ranko just stood there, standing perfectly still. Clearing out her mind as she focus on feeling the powers inside. Until it finally hit her. She felt a sudden shiver throughout her body as she felt a uprise in her body. Like something was crawling up inside her. Her legs began to tingle like if your legs fell asleep after being in the same place for too long and it was just getting up. Then her arms tingle the same way and she felt a shiver go up her spine. She almost like the feeling. Now she felt like something arms was holding her close as she stood there with a smile appearing on her face.
“Can you feel it my baby?”
“Yes... Yes I feel it.”
“How does it feel?”
“Good.”
The connecting between the three began to grow as their aurors connected together. The only witness to this event would be a passing by orc. The orc was colored black with red eyes and dress in black armor as it carries two daggers. It stop dead in it tracks when it saw a large image of a demon drawn out by the mixing auror in the air. It eyes widen and then it look around to see if anyone else was near by. It had trouble believing that this kind of auror was coming from just the red headed woman.
“We’re one,” said a deep voice that did not belong to the Kasul.
Ranko assumed it was the devil within her finally making it presents known. Ranko gripped the Kasul handle harder as the orc began to get closer to the woman raising it dagger. She spun around with the Kasul blade slicing through the orc cutting it in half as it two parts lay there on the grass as Ranko blood red eyes glare at the now dead orc.
“Some things have no honor, and no manners,” spoke the Kasul.
Ranko return the blade to it sheathe as she walk off into the distance. In these days the towns was far apart from each other, by foot it would take five days to get from Fano to the nearest town. And by the time she found a tavern that was outside the city of Fano it was the dead of the night. With the only light coming from the moon up above staring down onto the lands. Ranko push open the tavern door seeing harry man toasting one another and drinking. Her face had disgust on it. When she pass by she heard the whistles from the men staring and drooling over her. One man was so bold to slap her butt with his hand as Ranko was passing by. Ranko came to a sudden stop after feeling the hand slap her butt as he was laughing. Ranko turned around slowly staring at the man who just grinned toward her. He sat up with his arms crossed in front of his chest.
Chapter Two
“Problem?”
Ranko just smirked as she pat the man shoulder and then slam his face into the table and held out the arm that belonged to the hand that spank her. She unsheathed the Kasul blade as gasps could be heard around the tavern at the sword size. She then cut off the man arm as the blade also slice through the table and the one arm man screamed in pain rolling across the floor as the rest of the bar was silent as the grave. Ranko sheathed her blade as she went up to the front where the bar keeper was just as quiet and shock as the rest of the place. Ranko pulled out some money and toss it on the table.
“To pay for the table. And some wine if you’ll please?”
Meanwhile outside the feet of a black horse ran across the ground as it eyes burned like fire as it pick up in speed. Riding it was a knight fully dress in black armor with a red cape on the back of the armor as the knight in black armor also had red eyes that glowed in the night. The horse came to a halt as it stop near the bar. Jumping off the horse back and tying it up so it wouldn’t run off, the knight proceeded into the tavern. When it opened the door the people heads turned to glance at the knight. It helmet cover it face completely as the only thing seen was it eyes. Ranko was the only one in the room that didn’t even bother to look as she took a sip of wine from it cup. The one arm man was still on the ground moaning in pain as he saw the knight over his head.
“Hey man will you give me a hand?”
The knight look over to the arm, and pick it up. Hovering it above the one arm man.
“Your hand,” he said coolly.
Dropping the arm on the man chest as he swore nasty words up at the knight. It continued on to the bar keep as it hands met with the table.
“Which way to the city of Fano?”
Ranko began to pay attention as the bar keep gave him directions to the city. She turned her eyes to look at the black knight that stood next to her. Continuing to drink from the glass of wine so she doesn’t draw much attention to herself.
“Thank you,” he said quietly. Turning around and beginning to walk off as Ranko stood up from her seat.
“What business do you have there?”
The knight came to a stop, which was lucky for the one arm man as the knight was about to step on him. He turned only his head around to look at the woman behind his shoulder.
“It is no business of yours woman.”
Ranko open her mouth to reply, but the sudden voice of Kasul enter her mind to stay silent, so she said nothing. The knight just gave her another stare before he turned his head back around and left the tavern.
“Why did you shut me up?” Ranko asked it in thought.
“You can’t feel his auror? That knight is only one of the top five most powerful creatures in the world.”
“Top five?”
“Angels are at one. Dragons are at two, demons are at three, vampires at four, and undead at five. Gods use to be number one but since the dawn of Nara the gods have been destroy bumping angels to number one. That knight is an undead.”
“Undead?”
“You have so much to learn. A undead is a person who returns from the dead when they have

[Ayen]

The man in black armor
un-finish business to intend too.”
“Maybe that what was his business in Fano is.”
“Perhaps, but why should you care my baby? Fano is no longer your concern.”
“Fano is still my home.”
“It’s no longer your concern.”
“The hell it isn’t!”
Without another word to the sword Ranko storm out of the tavern hearing the weeps of the one arm man that now sat up on the floor. By the time she was out of the tavern the knight was long gone. Ranko burst into a run using her enhance demon speed wanting to get to the town faster than she usually would when walking.
The black horse pace was as fast as a demon as the knight soon came to another halt being up a hill. And down that hill and overhead was the city of Fano. The red eyes of the knight glared at the town with a cold glare. The knight name was Kaso and was indeed a undead. No longer having his soul, and no longer did his heart beat for any living soul. His business as Ranko asked, was to find the holder of the Kasul, and take it back to the one that wants it most. Too bad undead could not senses aurors, or the knight would know that the red head that bother him back at the bar held the item he seeks. But other than that he also seek revenge with one person in the town. The knight smack the horse lightly getting it to burst in speed as he rode down the hill and through the entrance of the city of Fano. Fano looked very different in the night time. The sky was clouded with gray clouds making the city look darker than usual. The moon light was now hidden behind the clouds. But the red eyes of Kaso was all the light the knight needed to see into the dark. He jump off his horse and walk forward. He was greeted with four priests of the city that knew who he was, and knew what he was.
“What do you want?” one of them asked.
“I believe you know what I seek. The demon blade.”
“This isn’t open for debate,” began the second priest, “Leave here at once.”
“You seem to be confused. You see, I haven’t come to debate.”
His right hand lower down to his waist as he release his blade from it sheathe. He held it up and gripped the hilt as the four priests glance at each other. They took out their staffs but were not fast enough. Kaso lunged forward and cut through the first priest as his body fell to the ground dead. The second man swung his staff and the knight duck slicing through the man legs and then thrusting the blade into his chest piercing his heart to kill him. The remaining two did the double team plan as they both jump him. The knight saw them jumped and rolled forward as the two landed the knight rise to his feet quickly and slice off both men heads.
“Child play.”
Meanwhile Maricul eyes came open as she laid in the comfort of her own bed. Turning around to see Ranko bed empty. She let out a sigh as she still had the necklace around her neck even though she was trying to sleep. She fiddle around with it a little as she thought about Ranko, the two large blades, and her grandmother. Maricul sat up finally realizing she would never get to sleep. She stood up from her bed and look out her window. She couldn’t see anything as it was pitch black outside. She heard the front door open up at once and foot steps going up the stairs as her door open to reveal her mother.
“Maricul we need to leave, now!”
“What for?”
Chapter Two
“There isn’t time to explain, we have to go now!”
Her mother was in a panic as she grab Maricul arm gently not wanting to hurt the girl as she led her out of the room, and down the stairs. Walking across the first floor as she put on a brown coat around Maricul to keep her warm and then open the front door.
“Are we going to get grandma?”
“Yes hun, we need to find your sister too.”
Maricul heart was racing, she had no idea what was going on as her mother led her outside in the dark. Still she couldn’t see anything but luckily Eve had a very good memory. Though she felt like a blind woman leading the blind she still knew how to get to her mother house. Was they finally running away from father? What was going on? Maricul wanted to ask but she knew she would get no answer. Maricul head turned as she saw the knight stalking the grounds in front of the church.
“Who’s that?” Maricul whispered pointing over to the knight.
The second Eve saw him she almost jump out of her clothes when she tug on Maricul arm harder and hid behind a house. Peaking over as she saw her husband confronting the knight. Thinking him to be brave but that was far from the truth.
“My God what happen here!?” he demanded.
Smelling the smell of blood rot the air as he look down to the four dead priest.
“Your God had taken their souls to where he pleases. It’s about time a man who knows the outcome of his actions to arrive.”
“What do you want?” he asked his voice shaking. Fear was obviously in his voice and heart as he look at the knight figure. The knight was a giant compare to him. Six eight to six feet wasn’t good odds in Saul mind.
“The demon blade, the Kasul.”
“I don’t have it.”
“Do not think I am a fool Saul. If I must I will tear this town inside out to find that blade.”
“I told you, I don’t have it!”
Kaso stalk the ground around Saul, as Saul step back. Eve grab her daughter arm once more and proceeded out into a run but Kaso horse got in their path and scream at the two women as Kaso turn around at the noises of his horse. The sudden appearance of the horse to Eve eyes cause her to fall down on her butt as Kaso walk up to the two women. Maricul fear was slowly rising as she saw her father just standing there doing nothing. Kaso pulled Eve up to her feet and grab her. Maricul was paralyze in fear as the knight held his blade up to her mother neck.
“Tell me where, or your bride dies.”
“NO!”
“Tell.”
“My daughter took the blade from the church. That one!” he yelled pointing to Maricul.
Maricul fear left her when her body was boiling with anger. Saul thought he could kill two birds with one stone, get his wife back and flee and lose Maricul in the progress. Kaso look over to Maricul as he push Eve back to her husband. Maricul broke off in a run to Rose house as the knight chase after her. She was almost to the door before she felt a rough tug on the back of her long hair as she was pulled toward Kaso. She felt the blade up against her neck as she felt his cold hands holding her in place.
“The Kasul blade?”
The man in black armor
“I don’t have it! He’s lying to you!”
“Why don’t I believe you?”
“It’s the truth! I swear to God!”
“Swears to your God does not impress me.”
Maricul heart was racing so fast she thought it would burst through her chest and fall down to the ground. She thought for sure she would die here. She could continue to tell the truth and get her throat slit, or she could lie and say she gave it to her sister. But she was not like her father at selling out her own flesh and blood. Maricul just closed her eyes expecting that any moment once her life was done flashing before her eyes she would die.
“Let her go!”
Maricul heart just stop, hope starting to come back into it as she open her eyes and saw her grandmother wielding one of the long swords that hung on her wall on the second floor.
“Rose.”
Maricul cock a eye brow, how did the knight know her grandmother name? And since when did she know how to wield a weapon? But now was no time for these kinds of questions, she was just happy someone has come to her rescue.
“I said let her go.”
Kaso lower the blade from Maricul neck and shove Maricul onto to the ground. She did not stay down there for long as she began to crawl in the dirt, getting up to her feet as she ran behind Rose. Only being two inches taller than her grandmother it didn’t do too much good hiding behind her. But she felt safer now. But her heart would not stop racing in the heat of the moment.
“It been a long time Rose. You look terrible, age has not been well to you.”
“I rather be old then forever undead Kaso.”
“Fool. You have any idea the powers I now wield as a undead? We are one of the top five most powerful creatures of the world.”
“And your at the bottom of that list. But atlas it matter not the powers you wield, but the skill you have to use it.”
“Still kept your wisdom I see. It been too long, I’ve been dreaming of this day.”
“Rematch then?”
Before she could get a answer she turned her head over to Maricul, “Mari please, get Ko-Ko and flee the city with your parents.”
“What about you?”
“I’ll be fine, now get out of here.”
“I can’t leave you.”
“Please! Go, I’ll be with you soon. Just go.”
Maricul nodded turning around and running up to the house. Pushing it open and looking around for Ko-Ko. She wish her heart would stop racing long enough for her to think strait. But that wasn’t about to happen any time soon. Maricul look up the staircase when she saw the shining silver kitty going up the top step.
“Ko-Ko! Ko-Ko wait!”
Maricul ran up the steps after the kitty. Running down the hall and following it back into the room with all the swords. The kitty head was motioning to the chest that the legendary blade was currently in.
“Ko-Ko I can’t take that with me, we have to leave it behind we need to get out of here!”
Chapter Two
The kitty meow in protest as it kept pointing it head to the chest.
“Ko-Ko I told you I can’t even pick up that blade let alone carry it with me.”
Maricul walk over to the kitty and bent over to pick it up but Ko-Ko claw her hand leaving it claws mark on her hand as she held the attacked hand and hiss a little.
“Ko-Ko!” she said upset.
The kitty kept pointing it head to the chest as Maricul was getting mad.
“I can’t pick up the sword!”
The kitty then press it paw on the chest and kept patting on it, trying to say carry the chest with this motion. Maricul didn’t get it until she remember her grandfather had to carry it in the chest. Maricul gave into the kitty demands as she pick up the chest.
“Hop on.”
Ko-Ko jump up on the chest and then jump up and wrap itself around Maricul head as she headed out the door.
“You owe me kitty.”
Meanwhile Rose and Kaso was in a middle of a stare down. Neither one had made any moves as they just stood there.
“What business do you have here?”
“None of your concern, but I am on a mission, and I am also here to settle our old score.”
“In that case, step forward.”
“I see you haven’t changed in your old age.”
He once again release his blade from it sheathe as Rose gripped the already sheathed long sword that had a blue blade. The two began to circle around the area they were in. Until both lunged forward swinging their blades into one another. Maricul came out of the house holding the chest tightly to see her grandmother and the knight clashing their swords together as both blades scream in the mist of the battle that neither one seem to be getting the upper hand in.
“Age hasn’t slowed you down a bit I see.”
Rose however remain silent during the battle as Maricul watch in horror. Hearing the kitty meow in her ear as she felt his paws kindly patting on her head to get her back into reality. She began to run off as both warriors continue to fight. Maricul trip over her own feet and the chest made a crash with the ground as the chest burst open and the blade fell out. Rose heard this and turn her head over to see the holy blade out and about.
“Maricul what are you doing!?”
Kaso saw his opening as he took the small distraction and thrust his blade into Rose chest, she gasp and felt the claws of death about to claim her as Maricul turn her head just in time to see her grandmother get stab.
“NO!”
Rose fell to the ground as Kaso pulled the blade back from her chest and walk over to the large blade. Maricul ran to Rose and fell on her knees next to her, picking up her head as Rose look up to her.
“No, grandma hang in there.”
“Mari dear, don’t worry about me. I knew my time was running out, I’m a old woman.”
The tears was falling like mad as she felt like a crack had burst out of her heart. Here was the only woman that ever cared about her. Her father beats her, her mother just didn’t care, her sister obviously disliked her, maybe even hated her. No friends to hang out with, Rose was the only
The man in black armor
person she had that cared for her. And now just like that, she was gone. Ko-Ko the kitty was going over to lick her but Rose pull her hand away.
“No kitty, my time is up.”
Ko-Ko just meow at her as Maricul didn’t even pay attention to understand why it matter if the cat lick her or not. She was too upset and heart broken.
“Please grandma, don’t go.”
“Mari, just know that I love you.”
And like the sand of time on everyone life, Rose took her final breath and then died in Maricul arms. Her eyes closing in as an result of this as Maricul kept her close and cried her eyes out. Kaso was looking down the blade and tried to lift it but could not budge it.
“Hum, this isn’t it.”
Kaso turned around and walk back over to Maricul as the cat hiss at him.
“Where is the blade?”
Maricul slowly stop crying as sadness was replace with rage toward the knight behind her.
“You...you killed her!”
“The blade.”
“Screw the stupid blade!” she yelled turning her head to look up at Kaso, “You killed the only woman that cared rather I was alive or dead!”
“How touching, now the Kasul?”
“DAMN YOU TO HELL!”
“Heh, I already have a room there, now back on topic.”
Maricul turn her head back down to Rose. Holding back the tears trying to be strong in all of this. She gripped the hilt of the blue blade that her grandmother once held and began to rise to her feet.
“Then it would be a sin, not to make sure you get there as soon as possible!”
Maricul spun around and swung the sword as Kaso block it with his own blade.
“Foolish woman.”
Kaso used his upper body strength to push Maricul away. She had allow anger to overflow her every move and thought as she rushed and swung the blade downward for his chest, the knight move to the side with his leg extended out tripping Maricul onto her face.
“Do not be tempted to rush unless you know for sure you have the bout won.”
“I HOPE GOD FLOG THE HELL OUT OF YOU!” she yelled getting back up to her feet.
Kaso chuckled at her anger as she kept swinging the blade, the two swords screaming as the fight rage on. Maricul anger made her stronger in the eyes of Kaso as he saw the younger version of Rose in her eyes. Kaso was finally done humoring the girl as he kick the blade to the side, Maricul still holding it as he leap up in the air and use his other foot to kick Maricul face in as she fell to the ground. Kaso was only on the ground for a few seconds before he got back up to his feet and held the blade to Maricul neck.
“Seriously, what did you think one woman could do?”
This had to be the third or fourth time Maricul saw her life flash before her eyes on this day. She closed her eyes again expecting that blade to end her life. She almost didn’t care. What did she have to live for? Who would care if she was dead? Who? But once again Maricul had luck on her side as Kaso felt the pointed edge of the Kasul blade in the center of his back.
“What about two women?”
Chapter Two
Maricul open her eyes to see Kaso turning his back on her. Maricul leaned over to the right to see her older sister Ranko holding the Kasul blade up against Kaso. His red eyes lit up like a lamp as he finally found what he was looking for.
“The Kasul.”
“I see my sword is famous.”
“You’re it chosen one then? I expected something, well more than a little girl.”
“I suggest you leave town before I lose my manners and cut you down where you stand.”
“Strong words, but can you back them up?”
“Try me.”
It was red eyes vs. red eyes as Ranko blood red eyes stared into the red rubies of Kaso eyes. Maricul got up to her feet and skip over to Ranko side, still confused she came here to help her. Ranko trade glances with her younger sister before both look back over to the black knight.
“I’ll make this easy for you woman, give me the Kasul and I’ll leave in peace.”
Ranko look pass Kaso to see her dead grandmother laying on the ground. And since Maricul was too must of a wimp in Ranko eyes to kill anyone that only left the knight in front of her.
“You killed a family member, I can’t let you leave here alive. May I have a name of the soul I am about to kill?”
“The name is Kaso. And it funny you say that, I wasn’t alive when I came here to begin with. But if that is your choice so be it.”
Kaso and Ranko took one more glance at each other as Ranko and Maricul traded glances as the knight gripped his sword. Both Ranko and Maricul charged at him swinging their blades and Kaso jump over the two. Pulling out a second sword as he turned around and battle the sisters as all four blades clash and screamed throughout the air. The villagers all stay in doors as they were scared to death. Saul and Eve was watching at a safe distance as Eve was scared for her children, but Saul could care less. Ranko turn the flat end of the blade and aim it for Kaso head swinging it down to clash into his skull, but he twisted on his heels and spun around barely avoiding the blade. Meanwhile he was blocking Maricul swings that was fill with rage as she still had anger over Kaso taking her grandmother life. Kaso kick Maricul back as he now press up both his blades up against the Kasul blade and they played a battle of strength. Maricul took this time to run forward and swing for the Kaso back, but her blade couldn’t even dent the armor as Kaso kick Ranko back and spun around kicking Maricul in the face as she fell to the ground.
“YOU’RE JUST GETTING IN MY WAY MARICUL!” shouted Ranko.
Both Kaso and Ranko continue to clash blades as Maricul sat there her eyes fill with hurt at Ranko words. That all Maricul ever seemed to do. Get in people way. She crawled back over to the white blade looking down into Ko-Ko eyes.
“That’s all I know how to do ain’t it? Get in people way.”
The kitty meow in response as tears fell from Maricul eyes and drop onto the blade. A sudden white light then surrounded the blade as Maricul look down at it. A gut feeling was telling Maricul to grab the blade, Ko-Ko back away from the weapon as it hiss at the sword. Maricul wrap her hands around it expecting not to be able to move it, but to her surprise it budge. And Maricul rise to her feet holding the sword like it was as light as a feather. Kaso came to a halt as well as Ranko as both turned around to see Maricul wielding the blade.
“Ranko... that blade...”
Maricul yelled almost losing control as her eyes was as white as snow, as if something had taken

[Ayen]

The man in black armor
over her body. She charged Kaso as he just chuckle swinging his own blade to block the holy sword. But it slice through both his blades like knife through butter as Maricul cut the knight in half as he fell to the floor dead. Maricul then stab her sword to the ground as she stood there catching her breath. Her white glowing eyes vanish as her innocent brown ones returned to her. She was wondering what just happened as saw the knight cut in two on the ground.
“W-What happened?”
“You killed him.”
Maricul appeared shock the sword still felt light to her as she look into Ranko eyes.
“Why— Why did you help me? I thought you hated me?”
“I didn’t do it for you. I did it for my home.”
Maricul lower her head in sadness, she gave her hopes up and thought Ranko still cared. She should have known better by now. She pulled her head up and look over to her dead grandmother.
“Grandma is dead... and it’s my fault... If I haven’t had fallen she wouldn’t have been attracted with me—“
“Don’t get dramatic with me Mari, I don’t want to hear it.”
“Ranko, don’t you— Don’t you have a heart that beats anymore!? Do you even have a soul anymore!? I’m pouring my heart out to you and you keep smacking me down!”
“Crying about it won’t bring her back.”
“I hate you!” Maricul said before she could stop herself. Her emotions getting the better of her as she walk up to Ranko, “I HATE YOU!”
Ranko pointed the Kasul to Maricul chest once she got too close.
“Go ahead Ranko. Just kill me. It’s not like I have anything worth living for right? I have a father that beats me. I have a mother that just doesn’t care! And I have a sister that wants nothing to do with me! Grandma— Grandma was the only person who cares! And now she’s dead because of that knight! So, kill me. Kill me!”
Ranko just stood there doing nothing. She could easily just impale Maricul absorb her soul and be done with it. But Ranko could not bring herself to kill her sister. She could care less about the drama coming off of Maricul, but she could not bring herself to kill her own flesh and blood. And even to this day if you asked her why, she couldn’t explain. But maybe the bond they had, was stronger than even the voice in her head that said kill her.
“What are you waiting for?!”
“I’m with her on this one my baby. What are you waiting for? Grant her, her wish of death.”
But still Ranko did nothing. Just looking into her sister tears filled eyes before Saul walk up to the two.
“My God what has happened here!?”
Neither Maricul or Ranko look over to their father as they continue to stare at each other. Ranko lower the Kasul and before a answer could be given Saul broke the silence, “WITCHES! THE TWO ARE WITCHES, THEY MUST BE BURNED ON THE STAKE!”
Both Maricul and Ranko heads snap over to glare at their father. Ranko eyes burned with hate as Maricul was too surprise to be mad. This was a new low.
“Father, what is wrong with you!?” demanded Maricul.
No answer came as the people began to run out of their houses holding torches and others had pitch forks. Maricul grunted as she ran back over to Ko-Ko that had been watching all of this on
Chapter Two
top of the chest. The kitty jump off the chest as suddenly the sword became as heavy as it was when Maricul first tried to lift it. She drop it into the chest and stay there on her knees surprise she lost grip of it. Maricul didn’t have time to ponder on it as she closed the chest and pick up the blue blade placing it in it own sheathe as Maricul lift up the chest with Ko-Ko jumping up on the chest and then to her head as Maricul did a one thirty degree turn and ran for it. Ranko just stood there with a maroon color auror surrounding the Kasul.
“Human kind always have to learn the hard way my baby. Show them no mercy!”
Ranko glare at the on coming mob that ran toward her. Ranko spun around when they got close enough and smack the crowd back with the Kasul blade. Saul watched as his first born slice through human flesh with the Kasul and their souls left their bodies at death and went into the Kasul making it stronger, Ranko also grew strong because of this.
“Kill... Kill... Kill... KILL!”
Ranko had lost all control, and indeed enjoy the taste of the kill as she ran forward and slice through more of the mob, during this Saul took the hand of his wife and ran away to flee the city. Maricul didn’t look back as tears still slid down her cheeks, and she made it to the town exit. She heard screams behind her but did not stop, she left the town and now entering a very cruel world. While Ranko stood there among the corpses of the people that had every intentions to burn Ranko alive. Her blood red eyes glowing brightly as hers, Nara, and the Kasul aurors mix once more as she could hear the Kasul laugh inside her head. Ranko just joined in on their laughter as the clouds open up and the moon light shine down on Ranko sin, and the dead that now laid on the once holy city of Fano.

[Ayen]

Chapter Three
The Animal Within
The only time Maricul ever gotten peace was when she was sleeping. No sadness, and no pain in her dreams. Nothing but happy moments, her favorite food, and being apart of one big happy family. But the sad things about dreams are, you always wake up when it gets to the good part. Maricul eyes slowly open to morning as she laid on the green grass close to the lake outside of Fano. The chest she been carrying was to her right as Ko-Ko the kitty was laying beside her to her left. Maricul let out a loud moan as she sat up. She wanted nothing more than to just go back to sleep but instead she ran her hands in her eyes to get the sleep out of her eyes. Ko-Ko stood up and stretched as he woke up.
“Hehe, morning kitty.”
Maricul petted Ko-Ko with the same hand that on the back of it had the claws of Ko-Ko. Ko-Ko look it over and began to lick the back of Maricul hand where he had clawed her.
“Aw, you are so sweet.”
The next moment the claw print had completely vanish showing no proof that it was ever there in the first place. Maricul eyes widen to this as she look at her hand for a full minute before looking down at Ko-Ko who just meow at her. Maricul wish she didn’t have to travel on foot. She wish she had something to put the chest on so she wouldn’t have to carry it anywhere. But she didn’t understand why she couldn’t carry the sword anymore, she had back in Fano. But then it became heavy on her again. Did it react to her sadness? Her tears? Maricul thoughts were broken once she felt her stomach growled. Maricul just laughed weakly as she rub her hand on her belly. She had no food, only a cat, and two swords. And she wouldn’t eat her cat. She would have to go hunting or risk starving to death before even getting to the city. Maricul was force to give into her stomach demands, as she took out her long blue bladed sword and began to look around for something to eat. A week ago she never thought she would result in the killing of animals to stay alive. She was always fond of animals and would rather not kill any just to survive, but she had little to no choice and she knew no spells that could just summon food to her. Maricul look around the area around her and found little to no animals thus far. Just birds singing on tree branches and she couldn’t bring herself to eat a bird. She saw a deer pass by and just stood there. It merely stood there not even noticing her, she thought about sneaking up on it to stab it and then find some wood to start a fire and perhaps cook it. But she couldn’t bring herself to move. She didn’t want to kill the deer, she knew it wasn’t a major sin or anything. Humans have been killing animals and eating them for years, but she just didn’t want to kill the animals. So she just watch it run off when her opening was now long gone. And the growls in her stomach protested her lack of wanting to kill anything for food. Maricul just groaned as she leaned up against the near by tree and sighed. Ko-Ko now at her feet as she stood there pondering on what to do. Until she heard a roar from afar. Being curious Maricul follow the noise to see a lion chasing another animal in the hunt. Maricul finally found a loop hole. Would it not be okay to kill a animal trying to harm another? Maricul rush forward and to the lion surprise it was stab in the back until it fell to the ground dead as the buffalo it was chasing got away. Maricul look down to the animal sadly already regretting taking it life, but it was about to kill another so she thought it was a just kill. Maricul sheathed her weapon as she began to drag the lion away until she heard another roar. Four more grown up lions surrounded Maricul, and each one look to be piss off. Maricul gulped and laughed nervously, assuming at once these lions was related to the current one she just killed. Maricul was beginning to wonder why it was she that kept running into so much trouble. First it
Chapter Three
was her father that had her corner like this, then her sister, then that knight, and now lions. It was almost like someone was writing a book of her life and kept making her get into one mess after the other. Maricul let go of the lion and started to back away slowly. The four lions stalking her as Maricul gulped. She knew she had nowhere to run too. And she doubt she could out run four lions. The four then charge all at once as Maricul remembered she was a witch. Holding up her hand and feeling black magic channel through her body she release a lighting spell big enough to knock the four lions back. Each lion fell to the ground as Maricul pulled her sword out of it sheathe again. Nature was throwing her easy balls here. She could claim this self defense then have something to eat when she was done. One of the lions got up and roared loudly, Maricul perform a slow spell to make the lion move very slowly as she ran up to it and stab it to death with the sword. The second lion jump Maricul and had her pin to the ground, Maricul then impaled it with the sword as she kick it off and got back to her feet. Turning around to see the other two lions running towards her. She unleash a wave of red flames at both, burning them alive as they fell to the ground dead. Maricul fell down to her knees as she breathed slowly. She had enough action for today, I mean really how many people had to kill a total of five lions in one day? After this she took the five lions back down to where she slept for the night near the lake. Gathering fire wood from the trees and dumping it between all the lions. She unleash a small powered fire spell to start the fire as she then cook the lions. She now had enough food that she wish to have last as she finish eating the first cooked lion. Laying down on her back as she was full. Hearing the meows Ko-Ko as it stood next to her.
“Oh, are you hungry Ko-Ko?”
Maricul sat up and took a small piece of lion and wave it over the kitty, but Ko-Ko shook it head and turned it back on Maricul.
“Oh forgive me, what am I thinking offering a cat to eat another kind of cat?”
Maricul drop the lion part and wonder what to use to feed the kitty. She didn’t feel like hunting again but then her question was answered when she heard a splash caused by a fish jumping out of the water and back in. Maricul smirked as she sat up and walk closer to the lake.
“You like fish no?”
Ko-Ko yellow eyes lit up as he ran over to Maricul side as she look down to the water. Holding out her hand as she focus her energy and a fish was levitated out of the water and she drop it down to Ko-Ko as the kitty began to eat it. Maricul smiled as she walk over and sat down in front of her fire. Looking into the flames and relaxing. She knew she had to get up and walk all the way to the nearest town, the city of Floas and that she needed to keep some food store for the five days trip. She was just thankful she had Ko-Ko with her so she didn’t feel completely alone. Soon the fire burnt out and Maricul was up on her feet walking down the muddy path that led to the next city. Ko-Ko wrap around her head as she held the chest in both hands, and had cut up the lions smaller for carrying and eating later. Now the only thing she was missing was water, she wish she had something to contain it but if worse came to worse she could always go down to the lake and drink from it. The day felt longer for Maricul, you know how when you have something to do on a day time seem like it’s going by faster and faster. One minute it’s morning and then the next thing you know your parents are telling you it’s time to go to bed. But when you have nothing at all to do time feels like it’s going slower and slower. Maricul had nothing to do and she was walking a long road that felt like it would have no end. And she knew she would never get to where she needed to be for five more days. The sun above her head started to feel hotter
The Animal Within
and hotter. Sweat began to pour down her face and she was thankful she had on a very light white shirt with her brown coat over it. She had on idea what time of the day it was, but what felt like hours was really a few minutes in reality. It was still in the middle of the afternoon and already her feet was killing her, and the heat of the sun was slowly getting to her. And the combo of a hot sun, and a cat on her head wasn’t helping her stay cool at all. She finally had to go and sit down. She sat down to where it was cool, the water. She dip her hand into the water and lick the water off her hand to drink it. There was no cars back in this day of age, there was nothing that could make this go any faster. Even if she had a horse to ride it would still take five days to get to Floas. I for one could not imagine having to walk for five days, with very little food though four more lions in pieces should be enough for Maricul who never asked for much. Not to mention having to carry that big chest with a sword she wish she could just carry around her shoulder within it sheathe so she could leave the chest aside. Maricul took off her brown shoes and proceeded to rubbing her own feet. They was aching and she was looking for any relief she could give them so she stuck them in the cool lake and just sat there relaxing. She still had too much on her mind. Her grandmother death, that knight that came there looking for the Kasul. And her own father that was willing to have his children burn on stakes. They say you can’t choose your family, fair enough, but what sin did Maricul commit to be in the family she was in? Maricul had ponder on it enough and she force it to the back of her mind as she pull her feet out of the water and dried off before putting her shoes back on. Getting back up to her feet and continuing on the path to Floas.
It was now the first night of her five days trip as Maricul started yet another fireplace as she cover herself in some leaves to keep her warm. Ko-Ko was laying next to her, and while she was running her fingers smoothly across it fur as it fell asleep. Looking at the back of the once clawed hand being completely healed. Was this the reason why her grandmother wouldn’t let him lick her? But why not? If Ko-Ko could have saved her grandmother life then why not let him do it? Maricul didn’t understand why her grandmother chose death over life. Who would choose death over life? She didn’t understand. She toss and turn on this night as by now the fire burnt itself out. She couldn’t sleep with what was on her mind. Why someone would choose death over life? It drove her crazy as she finally sat up and got to her feet. Dropping back down to her knees as she was next to her chest. Opening it up to look at the long white blade in it golden sheathe. Her grandmother was very skilled with a blade, almost too skilled. But Maricul thought it made sense, she had a bunch of swords it wouldn’t be surprising if she took one out every now and then and train with them by herself. But then how did the knight know her? Maricul ponder and ponder but couldn’t put her finger on it. Maricul trail her finger down the golden sheathe wondering why she couldn’t pick up this blade. In a act of hoping against hope she wrap her fingers around the hilt and attempted to pick it up. She had no luck picking it up as the thing would not budge. It then hit her, on the night it did work it reacted to her tears. She was sad on that night, weeping for her grandmother and feeling useless and the blade reacted to her feelings and then it felt as light as a feather. But right now Maricul didn’t feel sad at all, she only felt the feeling of confusion as she sat down in front of the chest.
“I wish you was here grandma... Maybe then you could fill in the blanks.”
Maricul just sat there and stared at the blade until her eyes lid began to get heavy and she submitted in the struggle against sleep as her head lower on top of the chest using it as her pillow as she wander off to dream. She couldn’t have chosen the worse time to fall asleep as a total of
Chapter Three
orcs surrounded the sleeping Maricul. They gave each other glances as she chuckle and one of them pick up Maricul and put her over his shoulder. The kitty woke up and hissed at the three of them as the other orc kick it to the side as the third orc saw the sword and attempted to lift it up. But of course he had no better luck than Maricul had just a few minute ago. But then it shut the chest lid and pick it up as the three orcs took off with Maricul and the chest. Maricul would then start to feel hands down her legs as she shiver at the touch being half awake and half asleep. When she woke up she felt chains rap around her arms and legs, and saw that up above her was orcs looking down on her with eyes of hunger. One of them stuck a apple in her mouth before she could scream and they just laughed. Maricul had dared to close her eyes for just a second and this is where she wakes up? In the hands of orcs? Orcs that would eat her? Just when one thought their life couldn’t get any worse this turns around and happens. Maricul turned her head and her eyes widen at seeing her chest with them. But she didn’t see nor hear Ko-Ko. If anything happen to that cat she wouldn’t know how to feel. Ko-Ko was basically the only friend she had. Tears filled her eyes again, she was afraid, just like two nights before, afraid for her life. From the jaws of a knight, to the jaws of orcs. The orcs had took Maricul brown coat off of her and was now fighting among themselves over it. Maricul look up at the moon that was half full, and was staring down at her. Maricul closed her eyes just wanting it to be over when a strong wind blew. And the sound of an arrow fire through the air as it rip into the ear of one orc and went through the other end. Talk about a splitting headache. The other orcs turn around as a woman fully dress in rogue clothes was in front of them. She had long blond hair and a set of blue eyes that looked as calm as the sea but appeared to soon become as angry as the sea would be during a rain storm. She was dress in nothing but brown as a brown veil cover her mouth. Without saying a word she reloaded her bow and arrow and took another shot that this time missed as the five orcs ran toward her. She back away and put her bow back on her back as she pulled out a short sword and thrust it into the chest of one of the orcs killing it. The unknown woman then trip over her own feet during the battle as she rolled to the right barely missing a sword that hit the ground when it had every intention in the world to impale her pretty face. She got up in a uppercut motion and stab the tip of the blade into the second orc jaw, watching it fall down to the ground. She kick it chest causing it to stagger back into the others. The woman who look no older than Maricul spotted Maricul tied up and looking like the main corse for dinner. She ran over to her and cut her blades through the chains to untie her. Maricul finally open her eyes to see the veil cover woman that was helping her. Maricul luck was at a cross roads. It would allow her to get into near death experiences but in the end someone or something always manage to save her at the last minute. Once Maricul felt the release of the chains that was around her limbs she sat up spitting out the apple in her mouth, and unleashing three fire balls that burned the remaining orcs alive. The blond headed woman didn’t even find the spell that shocking as she had ran over to the chest. The smirk on her face could not be seen thanks to the veil as she pick up the chest and Maricul heart skip a beat at seeing the prize collection of her grandmother being stolen.
“HEY! Hey wait you can’t take that!”
The woman ran off as fast as she could as Maricul proceeded to running after her. Going up a hill that led to a chariot. She place it into the chariot quickly as she jump up onto the horse leading it as she drove off into the distance. Maricul tried to keep up with it but she wasn’t fast enough to keep up with it and she ended up having to stop to catch her breath as she watch the chariot ride off into the night.
The Animal Within
“Come back!” she said hopelessly into the distance.
Maricul fell to her knees as she stared to the ground. She lost her grandmother sword, and probably the most important item she had with her at that time. How odd was that? The stranger saves her life just to turn around and steal from her. Maricul turned her head to hearing a meow, now seeing Ko-Ko walking up to her.
“Your okay... I lost it Ko-Ko, I lost grandma sword.”
Ko-Ko just reply in a meow as he walk over to Maricul and rub his head against her leg in some kind of comforting attempt. Maricul just smiled down at the kitty and petted his head lightly. Maricul got up to her feet and pick Ko-Ko up in her arms as she walk down the hill and back to the orcs camp to look for her stuff. She was even more depress to find her bag full of food empty, as she assume the orcs stuff their faces with her food. Maricul sighed as she walk off into the night. She finally found a safe place to lay her head as the moon fell from the sky and was replace with the rising sun as the second day of her journey began. Maricul at once went down to where the water flow near land and took another drink before continuing on. Maricul had Ko-Ko on her head once again, and she was happy not to have the weight of the chest to carry but she was still upset to losing her weapon. And she didn’t know where or if she would find that thief that stole her chest. But she would stick to her original plan and travel to Floas. Maricul already forgot what it was like to have a warm cozey bed to lie down in. The days came easier to her as she manage to avoid all the orcs and goblin hot spots. Even though the days felt like years she manage to pull through, hunting and killing dead animals just to stay alive. Finally the fifth day came and at night she made it to the entrance of the city. Maricul fell to her hands and knees and kiss the dirt of the ground being overjoyed with finally making it to the city as Ko-Ko just tilted his head and glance at Maricul kissing the ground. The feet of a knight of the city stood in front of the overjoyed Maricul. She saw the feet and slowly rose her head above to see the knight of Floas in his long brown hair glory as he look down to Maricul with a risen eye brow. Maricul just laughed nervously as she got back to her feet and did a polite bow.
“Um, hello sir. Sorry I was just so happy to see this place I’ve been traveling for five days now so can you please let me in?”
A second knight walk up next to the current one as the two traded glances at each other before looking back down to Maricul.
“She could be a spy for Isa,” said the first knight.
“And why would Isa send a weak little girl to spy for him?” question the second knight.
“So no one would ever suspect her.”
“Hey! Wait a minute I’m not a spy for anyone, I don’t even know who this Isa is.”
“Identify yourself,” said both knights at the same time.
“I’m Maricul and I’m from the city of Fano. Please, I don’t have anywhere to stay now since a knight attack my village and nearly killed everyone. Please let me in your city.”
The two knights traded glances again at the woman words before looking back down to Maricul.
“What did he look like?” asked the first knight.
“Like a knight... In black armor, a red cape on his back and he had red eyes. Came to town on a black horse and well he was killed during his attack but not before he killed someone who was very close to me.”
She didn’t even bother to say she was the one that killed him. One, dhe didn’t want to talk about it, and two she had doubts they would believe she manage to kill a trained knight. The two
Chapter Three
knights glance at each other and whisper to each other. Maricul just stood there hugging herself as the night wind felt cold against her body as she two men finally got through talking.
“If that knight attacked Fano then they could attack here next,” began the first knight.
“You may stay in town, and then the Queen will want to know about everything you saw tomorrow afternoon,” finish the second one.
Maricul just sighed at the thought of having to relieve the events that happen back in Fano. All she could do is nod as the knights made room for her to walk between them and into the city of Floas. Many buildings was on both sides of the city as the castle could be seen over head and the entrance to it was at the end of the city. In the center of the city was a large fountain with kids that hung around it. It was only evening but still she wonder why little kids was still up and about outside their homes. She barely avoided a dog that began to bark at Ko-Ko. Ko-Ko hiss and then jump onto Maricul shoulder as Maricul giggle.
“It’s okay kitty.”
When Maricul got closer to the fountain she came to a halt to see a large chest that look just like the one that was stolen from her. Three boys was in front of it as a blond headed woman dress in brown was talking to them. Maricul move over to the left and got in ear shot when her eyes widen to see that was the same woman that saved her life only days ago. She had taken off her veil revealing the rest of her pretty face as she was a inch shorter than Maricul. A smile grew on her face as she seem excited as the three boys seem surprise and vex to see her back. She bent down and open up the chest lid to reveal the large blade within it golden sheathe to the three boys.
“You actually went?” asked one of the three boys surprised.
“Yeah, you said the orc camps had treasure and you couldn’t have been more right. I was amaze to find such a weapon among them myself. It looks like it weigh a ton and could be worth three times that. So what do we do now?”
“We?” question the second boy.
“Yeah. You guys said if I got the treasure from the orcs you would let me play with you.”
“We didn’t think you’d be stupid enough to really do it,” said the third kid.
“Yeah but... I did... So I can play with you guys right?”
“No way, we only said that to get you out of our hair Miracle. We don’t play with freaks,” said the first kid.
He stuck his tongue out immaturely at the blond as the three chuckle, closing the chest lid and picking it up and walking away with it leaving Miracle all alone. Maricul felt sorry for the woman as she listen in on them, before reality struck in and she needed to get that weapon back. Maricul ran after the three boys and got in front of them to block their paths.
“Who are you?” question the second boy.
“I’m Maricul, and that sword you got there is mine.”
“Not anymore,” proclaim the third boy.
“Please give it back!”
While the four spoke Ko-Ko jump down to the ground and walk up to the leg of the boy carrying the chest. He claw the boy leg making him hiss in pain and dropping the chest as Maricul grab the chest quickly and stood up with it. The other two boys pound their fists looking ready to hit Maricul, but she drew her sword from it sheathe and pointed it at the two boys who eyes widen at seeing the sword pointed at them.

[Ayen]

The Animal Within
“Try me.”
The boys became frighten as they ran away and disappear into the night as Miracle walk over to the girl, receiving a loud hiss from Ko-Ko as she had a very sorry look on her face remembering Maricul from before.
“Hi,” Miracle said quietly.
Maricul grasp her chest tighter as she move to protect it from the blond woman grip afraid she might snatch it and run off again.
“Don’t worry I’m not going to take it again. I didn’t even know it was yours, I thought it was the orcs.”
“So what did you think when I running after you then?”
Miracle just put on a weak smile as she then laugh off the awkwardness between them as she smiled.
“Oh well, the past belongs in the past. But I want you to know I’m very, very sorry mis.”
Maricul didn’t know rather or not she could trust the girl, but if Miracle was the type that didn’t care then she wouldn’t be here now apologizing for what she did. Unless she wanted the sword, but Maricul truly doubt it.
“Forget it. My name is Maricul,” she said dropping the chest gently onto the floor long enough to hold out her hand toward Miracle.
She smiled brightly as she shook Maricul hand, “I’m Miracle, nice to meet you. You must be new in town.”
“Is it that obvious?” she asked while sheathing her sword and picking up her chest again.
“I’d lived here all my life and have a lot of free time on my hands, I think I would know all the faces that run around here by now. What you did to those boys was great, I think two of them wet their pants when they saw that sword.”
“Yeah, I guess... Why would you want to hang out with those jerks anyway?”
Miracle happy expression suddenly turned into a frown as she place her arms to her back crossing her hands together.
“Oh you heard all of that huh?”
“I— I didn’t mean to, well okay I meant to, but I—“
“You don’t have to explain yourself. I guess I’m just lonely, they promise they would be my friends if I did what I did. I was just a fool, I should have known they never agree to be my friend.”
“Why was they calling you a freak?”
Miracle look up to Maricul nervously as if she asked a question that threaten her in some way or form. She just stood there prolonging the silence between the two girls as Ko-Ko look up into her eyes with a calm expression. Maricul just stood there blinking at Miracle blankly a few times before the silence was finally broken, “No reason, you know how boys can be... Like you said they were jerks...”
Maricul rose a eye brow at how she answered. Already wondering if the woman was hiding something but she didn’t question it. If she had something she wanted to keep secret then she would respect that. Maricul didn’t want people to know she was a witch quite frankly because in most towns they would tie her to a stake and burn her alive for it.
“Yeah, they was jerks. So since you been here all your life maybe you wouldn’t mind showing me around? I fear I could get lost around here, I lived in a very small town before here.”
Chapter Three
“The city ain’t that large, though I guess it is to a small city folk like yourself. But I doubt you’ll get lost. Behind the buildings are just walls and nothing more. But sure I’ll love to show you around.”
She wrap a arm around Maricul shoulder as she led the way across town. The buildings on the right hand side of the town had a weapons shop that was made of wood and brown, next to the weapon shop there was a item shop that sold many different items, and next to them was a magic shop, when Maricul saw this she blinked surprise. She never seen a magic shop in a town before.
“A magic shop?”
“Yeah, for witches and wizards. We’re not like other towns when it comes to them, we welcome them here. Why, you ain’t against them are you?”
Maricul shook her head as she was surprise. She finally found a town that didn’t burn witches to the stake, this almost felt too good to be true. The final buildings was a few houses of people and then Miracle took her to the left hand side that gave home to a inn, many of the buildings was of the same color, brown and made of wood. More houses that differ from the rest continue on the left side as two houses was made out of bricks and was gray, and thus the tour ended back at the inn.
“I got to ask,” began Miracle, “Why do you carry that thing in a chest? Wouldn’t it be easier to just strap it to your back?”
“I would but I can’t hold it. It’s too heavy.”
“What are you doing with a weapon you can’t even hold then?”
“It was my grandmother’s. Two swords of her, a kitty and a necklace is about all I have left of her memory.”
Miracle eyes soften up a bit, almost as if she could relate to Maricul losing a love one. And needless to say she could but then I would be getting ahead of myself. She reach her right hand into her pocket and pulled out enough gold for Maricul to stay at the inn for the night. She handed the handful of gold to Maricul.
“Here, that should be enough for a night at the inn.”
“I can’t take your money.”
“It’s okay, go ahead and take it. It’s the least I can do after stealing from you.”
It was at least a full minute of take it, and I can’t between the two women before Maricul finally gave in and took the money. At that moment a knight ran up to the two. He was large and had black eyes that look as pitch black as a night without the moon. He place his hand on Miracle shoulder and smiled lightly.
“There you are princess, what are you doing out and about this late, it’s not safe for you.”
Maricul eyes widen at the word princess as Miracle appeared to be embarrassed no thanks to the knight for giving away her secret.
“You’re a princess?”
“What, I didn’t mention that?”
Maricul just shook her head as the knight tug lightly on Miracle arm to make her follow him back to the castle leaving Maricul standing there surprise. But before Maricul went into the inn her eyes trail off to look at the magic shop on the other side of the city. With some time still left she walk toward the magic shop and push the door open. Smelling a strange and foul smell in the air coming from potions as the lighting in the shop was very dim. The first thing you saw when you enter was a desk with a doorway that obviously led to the back. With potions and books
The Animal Within
stack against the wall. Maricul set her chest down as she looked around the potions. Finding nothing of interest until she saw a black cover book with old yellow pages. No title was on the book cover as she open up the book to the first page. It went on about the purposes of spells as each chapter listed a different spell. Maricul jump when she felt a cold hand touch her shoulder. She jump around to see a old short woman that look to be five one and had a rather long nose. Her right eye was blue as her left eye was green and she was dress in old gray ragged robes.
“Can I help you?”
“I was just looking.”
The shorter woman look over to the magic book Maricul was taking a glance at and pick it up. Blowing off the dust that had gather over it from it sitting there for many months and opening it up gently to reveal the old yellow pages.
“This book is old and ancient, but it has spells that are no longer in use anymore. In fact it has illegal spells in it pages.”
“Then are you really allow to sell it?”
“You’re a witch yes?”
Maricul nodded in reply not even realizing the woman was purposely changing the subject.
“In other towns I wouldn’t even be allow to state what I study, let alone be allow to sell such supplies as I do here. This book is the first book ever created, it spells goes back through thousand and thousand of years ago. From the most simple to the most advance spells of the world.”
“How did you get a hold of it?”
“Does it really matter? You desire to know more of this book do you not?”
“How much?”
“Ten coins, nothing less.”
Maricul pulled out the gold that Miracle loaned her. She wasn’t sure if she should do this, she didn’t know how much the inn was, and Miracle only said this should be enough. But she couldn’t let this book slip through her fingers. She counted the coins seeing she had up to one hundred. Maricul drop the ten gold coins and took the book as she left the shop. Maricul hurry back into the inn as she walk up to the front desk, looking up to a man who was bald with a black mustache.
“Um excuse me sir, how much to stay the night?”
“Forty gold coins,” replied the deep voice of the man.
Maricul sighed relieved as she had more than enough to pay for the night. Pouring down the coins needed as she went up the stairs case and into one of the rooms with a single bed that sheets was winkle and mess up. Maricul set her chest down next to the bed as Ko-Ko curled up in a ball and laid down on the end of the bed falling asleep as soon as he closed his eyes. Maricul smiled over to the kitty as she sat down on the bed and open up her book. She scan the first page that had a list of all the spells they talked about. When her eyes stop dead on a spell that said, “Revival”. Maricul flip to the near end of the book and red about the spell;

Revival
I’m sure many of you have lost a loved one that was a untimely death. Well this spell is for any of you who want to cheat death and revive your lost loved one. Be warned this is for ADVANCE wizards and witches only. And even for the most powerful this spell could mess up
Chapter Three
and there’s a chance your loved one could come back wrong. It is also very dangerous for any witch or wizard under the level of advance to attempt this spell. First you must be close to the body of the loved one, this shouldn’t be too hard you can either summon the body to you with one of the earlier spells talked about in the book, or go to that person grave. Recite the following, “Heavens hear my plead, bring my loved one back to me” and be sure to be focus on nothing other than bringing he or she back from the dead.

Maricul read the words over and over again. There was actually a way for her to bring her grandmother back from the dead? But it was for advance witches only though. And even then it could be mess up, and Maricul would never forgive herself if she brought her grandmother back wrong. This felt too good to be true, what if it was. Maricul closed the book and place it down as she took off her brown coat and drop it down onto the floor, feeling too tired to even bother to put it somewhere. She laid down on the bed after slipping off her shoes. Putting her legs under the sheets and moaning slightly. It had been five days since she had slept in a comfortable bed like this and she was happy and pleased to be in one again. Her eyes closed like Ko-Ko before her, she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow.
Meanwhile back in the city of Fano the clouds clear up revealing the lights of the white moon across a blood red sky. The smell of death have not left since the five days time between the event and now. The body of the knight still laid there on the ground in two but as the wind began to blow the right eye of Kaso open up and his two parts began to reunite like long lost brothers finding each other for the first time. He sat up with both eyes now open looking up across the red sky.
“Should’ve aimed for the head foolish girl.”
The sound of his horse was heard as it reappear at the reawakening of it master. He stood up and jump over his horse turning around to face the exit of the city. A look of anger in his eyes as revenge was now on his mind, as his horse ran off into the distance.
Maricul eyes woke up like she just had a nightmare. In a way she did she saw the events of Kaso waking up and getting on his horse but it didn’t end there. It ended with her being suck in a unbreakable box and being taunted and mock by Kaso, Ranko, and her father for hours until she awoken. She look over to see Ko-Ko still laying down but his eyes was open. She sat up and leaned over to him petting his head.
“Good morning Ko-Ko.”
Her good morning was disrupted when there was a knock at her door.
“Who is it?”
“The knights of Floas, here to take you to the queen.”
Maricul just sighed as she pulled her legs out of her comfy sheets and had them met firmly on the ground as her elbows balance on her knees and her hands press up against her cheeks.
“Give me a minute, and don’t come in I’m not dress.”
That was half true. She wasn’t fully dress, but not barely either. All she needed to do was put on her shoes and coat and she would be good to go. Maricul slip on her shoes and pick her coat off from the floor as the knights waited outside. Slipping it on she petted Ko-Ko and look over to her chest. She didn’t feel like carrying it and she didn’t want to be question about the size and purpose of the blade, so it was better off here. And she didn’t want to be arm with her other sword before the queen either so she left her other weapon in the room also.
The Animal Within
“And you be a good boy and stay,” she said sweetly to the kitty.
She open the door and was led by the four knights out of the inn. The city look even more beautiful in the day time with the clouds passing the deep blue sky as the little kids was jumping and playing. She notice the three brats of the other night standing in a corner just looking all tough. She rolled her eyes at them as they probably thought she was either arrested, or someone special with body guards. That brought a smile to her day as she was led through the doorway and the small path that led to the entrance of the castle. When they push open the doors of the entrance Maricul saw gray walls on the inside, with silver shining floors that was cover in blue carpet that went up to the stairs in front of them. On the right led to a tall brown door that led to the dinning room as to the left led to a stairs case that went down to the dungeons. The knights led Maricul up the steps and open up another set of double oak doors that led down a long hallway. Paintings on the walls of both sides, of old men and women. If Maricul had to guess they was probably paintings of past kings and queens of the kingdom. When they got to the end of the hall she saw one painting of Miracle and she smiled at it. She look so peaceful even in the painting. They open up a set of double blue doors with silver symbols on them. The symbols was a circle that held a cross in the center of it. To reveal further blue carpet as a woman dress in a blue dress and a silver queen crown on her head, sat on her throne. No king in sight as the first thing Maricul knew she needed to do was bow. Seeing the knights do so was her cue as she got down on one knee and bowed along with them. The next person she notice was a handsome young boy that appear to be around fourteen sitting next to her mother as she saw out of the corner of her eyes Miracle dress in a baby blue dress and wearing her own crown peaking from around the corner.
“Rise,” spoke the royal tone of the queen.
The queen look to be middle age with long black hair that was tied up in a ponytail, she had bits and pieces of gray hair mix with her black hair as her eyes were a green color. Her son hair color was also black but short and he shared the eyes of his mother. As his green orbs couldn’t get off the figure of Maricul. He smirked at the sight of her and found her very attracted as Maricul only notice him staring for a second before she look over to Miracle in the shadow waving at her before her eyes went back on the queen.
“They tell me your village was under attack?”
Maricul nodded in response as she closed her eyes for a moment. Having to relive those memories was very painful to her. Watching people in her own town be killed, watching her own grandmother be killed, and listening to her own father tell the others she and her sister needed to burn to the stakes. The last two hurt the most, how many people had to witness a family member death then to have their father say something like that? She open her eyes and explained the whole story about the knight Kaso that was fighting her grandmother, how a distraction from her resulted in her grandmother impaling and so on. Though no sadden expression came from the queen face. She was hanging at the edge of her seat by the end of the story.
“Your grandmother fended off the knight?”
“Yes...”
“And you sure you killed this knight Kaso yes?”
“Well, I did cut him in half when he wasn’t looking.”
The queen folded her hands as she leaned back in her chair holding her hands in her lap.
“Kaso like he said is a undead. The only way to kill a undead is to cut off their head. Do so
Chapter Three
anywhere else and they can revive in a matter of hours, days, or weeks. So he’ll be back.” Maricul let out a quiet sigh as she closed her eyes for another second. She didn’t think this visit would be pleasant but the last thing she wanted to be told was that the knight she thought she killed would come back and probably come for her. Maricul felt a small blush rise on her face when she notice the young man continuing to stare at her. She was flatter to say the least, as many men over looked her through the years. Though he was too young for her, she was still flatter nonetheless. More so at the fact that this was a prince checking her out, and most girls would die to have a prince that found them attracted.
“And you say he was after this Kasul sword?” the queen asked breaking the silence.
“Yes. A strange looking blade that my sister stole from the church like I said.”
“What was it doing in a church.”
“I don’t know, that question should go to my father Saul. But I don’t know where he is, he took off after the events in Fano, also like I said.”
The blush was dead now, and it was replace with irritation. She was irritated at having to repeat herself over and over again. And many people I know despise having to repeat themselves over and over again. Some wouldn’t mind it if the person was def, but the queen wasn’t def so this irritated Maricul at the many times she was asked the same questions over and over again. But this person was a queen so Maricul found it best to keep her mouth shut, and just answer the questions given to her. No matter how many times she heard the same questions.
“I heard enough. You’re free to go Mis. Maricul.”
Maricul was relieved to have this end as she bow quickly and made her leave out of the throne room this time without the knights being around her. She had her head tilted down a little bit as she heard foot steps following her. She expected knights about to pass her by or maybe Miracle was chasing her down, but when she turned around she saw the prince instead. Maricul just smiled at him as he waved lightly and she bowed quickly.
“Maricul, is it?”
“Yes it is.”
“I’m Prince Danyal. You’re so beautiful.”
Maricul felt that blush come back to her face as she couldn’t meet eye contact with the boy as she felt flatter once again. Her arms behind her back as she shook to the left and right a little with her upper body.
“Thank you. You’re a handsome young prince yourself.”
The boy smiled brightly as he step closer to Maricul laying a hand on her shoulder as he stared at her with his green orbs looking into her brown ones.
“I’m sorry for your lost...”
Maricul couldn’t really say anything as she didn’t even want to think about it. Looking at the boy hand as it slid down her shoulder and down the rest of her arm in a comforting rub. She soon felt his other hand on her side running down to her back as he was getting a little close for comfort. When Maricul notice his face closing in on hers she put up her hands to block him and keep him back from her lightly as he looked disappointed at this.
“Thank you, I should be going.”
Maricul turned around and dash off quickly as Danyal just stared at her butt as she exit through the end of the hallway. Maricul face was red and full of blush at the events that just happen here. First she was being check out by a prince, and then she was almost sure he was trying to make a

[Ayen]

The Animal Within
move on her in that hallway. She didn’t know if she should feel honor or what. But the age difference bother Maricul more than anything else. As she continue to walk and walk she found herself at the doorway of a dark and damp room, only the candles burning bright in it. She had no idea where she was, she wish she had asked for a escort out of the castle but she didn’t. And the knights must’ve assumed she remember her way out. She sighed as she step in the dark room hoping someone was in here so she could ask directions to the exit. She lift up the torch that was on the wall and walk forward until she saw bars that look like a cage. Maricul figure this was the dungeons. When she turned around she shook slightly at the Miracle being right behind her.
“Not a pretty sight, is it? The cage.”
Maricul press her spare hand to her chest feeling her heart beats return to normal.
“Don’t sneak up on me like that!”
“Sorry Maricul. I notice you with my little brother.”
“Oh, did you now?” she asked as her face began to blush once more.
She couldn’t remember ever blushing this many times in a row on the same day, she never had a reason to before now. Miracle place her right hand on her mouth and giggle before removing it.
“I know it wasn’t your fault. It must be a boy thing in his case. But I can see why he likes you, you’re very pretty.”
“Thanks. So is this the dungeons?”
“No, the dungeons is back in the first room of the castle on the left.”
“Then what is this?”
“A one person cage. It’s rarely used within the months of the year.”
“Who cage?”
Miracle prolong answering as she lower her head and look to the ground. Wrapping her hands around the bars as she look in the other side of the cell.
“Mine.”
A shock expression appeared on Maricul face at Miracle answer. She ran a finger through her long hair as she look over to Miracle who was avoiding all eye contact with Maricul. Miracle at once believed the judgement was going to come from a woman she was starting to think of as a friend. But no judgement came as Maricul was still confused.
“Why do they put you in a cage?”
Miracle finally met with Maricul eyes as she had a confused look of her own. Did Maricul not get it? Could she not put two and two together here? Miracle just sighed as she hoped not to have to explain what she meant by this.
“Remember when that kid called me a freak? It because I am one Maricul.”
“What do you mean?”
“Come on, put two and two together... Cage, me. What do they lock up in cages? Monsters. I’m a monster... A werewolf to be more exact.”
The confusion on Maricul facial expression died down once it all came to her. Slapping herself mentally at not getting it before. Now the surprise look recapture it ownership of Maricul face as she look over to Miracle who was giving her a weak smile in return. Maricul walk over to her and place a hand on her shoulder and smiled over to her.
“I don’t think you’re a monster.”
Miracle weak smiled grew in power at Maricul words as a real smile appeared on the blond face. She kissed Maricul lightly on the lips which here meant thank you as she giggled.

Chapter Three
“That means a lot to me.”
“Your welcome. If you don’t mind my asking, how did this happen?”
Miracle smile disappear as she leaned against the bars of her cage as she let a small sigh escape from her lips. Closing her blue eyes for only a moment as she began to relive the events that led to her becoming a werewolf.
“A year ago I talked my friend into letting me hunt with them. And we were doing just fine until we heard a howl. It was on the night of the full moon. Hardly any werewolves come down to these parts so we shook it off as a wolf howl. But then I turned around and saw a werewolf attack me. My friend saved me at the last minute but it was already too late. I was bitten and on the next full moon I turned into a werewolf and killed some of people in my town.”
She stop talking when her voice sadden and she was wiping a hand on her eyes keeping tears that desired to fall from doing so before she continue, “That why no one wants to be around me. That why I’m called a freak whenever I’m in town, either by those boys or anyone else. Because I’m a werewolf that killed parents children, children parents. I hand out loans and do people favor because I’m trying to make up for the sins of the past. My mother had this cage built for me so I have somewhere for the nights of the full moon. It’s not easy for my mother having a daughter that is a werewolf, being queen and all.”
“But it’s not your fault you killed those people, you couldn’t control it.”
“Maybe I could have. My friend didn’t want me to go on that hunting trip for obvious reasons, I should have listen to her, I could have avoided the whole thing right there.
“You had no way of knowing this would happen.”
“I still killed people Maricul. In my mind that makes me a monster.”
“Did you enjoy those kills? Do you look forward to turning into a werewolf so you can go out and kill whoever you can?”
Miracle eyes widen, and her face look offended at Maricul even suggesting that as she push herself off the bars and cross her arms in front of her chest.
“God no! How can you even say such a thing!?”
“Then, you’re not a monster. A monster is something or someone who doesn’t care about the lives it ends. You can’t help it, and you obviously weep for those lives you taken. That doesn’t make you a monster.”
Miracle smiled again. She didn’t know what it was about Maricul but she just manage to make her smile even when she found herself being drowned in self pity. She leaned against the bars again and let out another sigh accepting defeat gladly at being proven wrong.
“I know... But do you have any idea what’s it like to be named a out cast because you’re different from everyone else?”
“Yes,” Maricul answered simply.
“How so?”
“Because... I’m a witch...And that is greatly frown upon in most places.”
“I knew it!” she proclaim happily, “You just had something special about you. I always wanted to meet a witch! What all can you do?”
Maricul blinked blankly. This was the last response she ever thought she would get from someone when they found out she was a witch. The ones she was used to were, “WITCH! BURN THE WITCH!” and, “Servant of the Devil!” and so on, and so on. This was a very welcome change.

The Animal Within
“Well, simple spells really. The four elements, fire, water, lighting, earth. Holy spell, healing myself. And floating small objects. Just the basic stuff. I got a magic book from the magic shop of late to help me learn more though.”
Miracle smiled brightly as she pulled her body up from leaning on the bars and walk closer to Maricul.
“I want to see a magic trick!”
“They aren’t meant as magic tricks, they’re for defense purposes...”
Miracle started to make a sad baby face flashing her huge blue orbs that you can call the ‘puppy eyes’ look as Maricul sighed and gave into her desire.
“Oh all right.”
She held up her right hand turn it with her palm facing upward. She closed her fingers to make a fist and shook it lightly as she open up the palm of her hand a small fire ball appeared from it as Miracle smiled brightly and her eyes grew as the flames reflected it light into her blue orbs. Maricul smiled back and closed her hand again as the fire ball vanish.
“That’s amazing. Can anyone be a witch?”
“Not anyone. Their not born really, it’s not a race or anything. Humans can just study it and train their body to use the magic energy. It’s really isn’t something I know how to explain too well. And well, I should be leaving so if you can direct me to the exit I’ll be on my way.”
“Um, before you go I got one last question. Is there a spell or a potion you could make, that can cure the werewolf curse?”
Maricul eyes soften a little at Miracle question. She wanted to nod and say yes, but in truth she had no idea and she didn’t want to give the girl hopes up. But in reality rather Maricul knew this yet or not there was no cure for the werewolf curse. Once bitten you are curse to be one until death. The only escape of the curse is death.
“I don’t know.”
“Could you look it up in your book? Pretty please?”
“I will, but I can’t promise anything Miracle.”
“I know... Just take a right and go forward until you find the stairs leading down, and then just continue to go forward from there.”
Maricul kissed her thank you and goodbye as she left through the doorway of the dark room, her eyes being blinded slightly by the light as her eyes slowly got used to it again as Miracle just continue to stare at the bars of her cage.

[Ayen]

Chapter Four
Secrets to Immorality
Meanwhile far away from the city of Fano, and Floas. Away from the journey of Maricul and soon to be new found best friend Miracle lied the other side of the new country. Where the blood red eyes of the Red Devil Ranko walk on this day. How she manage to get to the other side of the New Country was due to the demonic speed channel through her thanks to the Kasul blade. Now the demonic duo look forward to see a village that was built by elves after the war. Elves used to be the most populated people in the entire world. But after the war with Isa many elves have lost their lives to the cause. And now there was only one remaining clan of elves left that are important to the future of the race. If they wish to survive they will need to start producing now. Even though elves was immortal, meaning they always look young, much like a vampire only they didn’t need any blood, just food. But death still hung over them just as much as death hangs over a human. The race have never been in such fear of dying out as it was on this day. Which is why the town was built so far away from the others, they didn’t want to risk outsiders coming in and killing off what they couldn’t afford to lose. So strange fate is for a woman such as Ranko to be looking over their town, a woman who had the power to destroy them all if she desired too.
“Where am I now?” Ranko asked after minutes of staring toward the village.
“Eloto, a elf village. Home to the last clan of elves that survived the war.”
“Why did you lead me here?”
The words of the Kasul was interrupted before they even began as Ranko stomach protested to the long needed hunger she had been ignoring for the last couple of days as Ranko emotionless eyes look down to her protesting stomach.
“Question answered. I can’t have my baby dying of starvation on me now can I?”
When most would blush Ranko just sighed as if she had lost a very long and enraging battle to a beast she did not desire to lose to under any means at all. She made her way into the entrance of the city and the first thing she saw was gold buildings. Each house was made out of this gold as elf guards watch over the city from the left and right pass the entrance. Ranko assumed the elves was living large if they had the luck to live in simple houses that was made out of gold. The grass was a deep green, as many gardens at the side in front of some of the home grew lovely during this time of year. Ranko made her way pass the children that were playing, each one staring up at her, but mainly the first thing they notice was the giant sword that was strap to her back. The red eyes of the Red Devil notice a few of the guards giving her a suspicious look as she made her way through the city. Ranko always hated those that judge a book by it cover. All people ever chose to see in Ranko was the unusual blood red eyes that would glare at you blankly without even the slightest hint of emotion within them. Or the coolness in her voice when she spoke. Emotion was almost a thing of the past for Ranko, as you can barely ever notice any in Ranko facial expression, or her voice. Though the only emotion she ever express the most would have to be her anger. And the rare grin that would cover her face for no more than a second. Dare blink and you would miss it completely. But perhaps if Ranko understood their situation better maybe she could understand why they were so suspicious. They were scared of their race being wipe out. And the fact that a stranger had just enter their home, with eyes that gave most a shiver up their spine, and a sword that look like it could tear your body apart in just a few slices, it was hard not to be frighten, not to judge this book of Ranko by her cover and ready to strike at her in self defense if she did do anything. But luckily for them Ranko had no wish to kill them, unless the Kasul wanted souls. But even then Ranko didn’t feel lucky enough to take on a whole army
Chapter Four
by herself. Unlike the houses, the shops, and the tavern was made out of silver. There was a large golden castle in the back of the city. Ranko eyes never seen anything like it. When the sun glowed on it the gold shine brighter than ever, almost with a blinding amount of light as Ranko place her right arm above her eye lid so she wouldn’t be entirely blinded due to the light. She enter the tavern that was as gold on the inside as it was on the outside, Ranko was beginning to think these people was a bunch of show offs. The elves in the room of both female and the male sex, some look awfully pale, while others skin was just as normal as Ranko’s, while other look more tan than others, each elf having of course their trademark pointed ears as they help themselves to the tavern meals and drinks. Ranko sat up on a stool as she gave her order, a few minutes later a plate of raw meat laid in front of her. Ranko was not lady like when it came to eating her meals, why in all of her twenty four years of living she never had a single lady like meal. Though I guess it’s unfair to count baby years as how many people know a baby that eats cleanly at a table? Please they either eat their meal leaving it everywhere, or wear it halfway through the meal you provide for them. Ranko never understood nor really like the lady like way of eating, if you’re really hungry as she was now you would just want to stuff your face, clean your plate and leave it at that. If men could do it, why couldn’t she? While she ate she notice out of the corner of her eyes the elves staring at her, they quickly turn away their glances when she look their way. Ranko didn’t know if she should be glad people was afraid of her, people with power was always a figure to be feared, and Ranko did desire power and to strike fear in people hearts. But at the same time she hated being judge so harshly when all she was doing were eating. Sitting among the elves that was watching Ranko, were a woman at five foot four who had very long blond hair that look almost white than blond. Her eyes being baby blue as she took a sip from her cup of pumpkin juice, her eyes never leaving Ranko unless Ranko eyes turn to meet with her baby blue ones. No one liked to be stared at and the blond elf didn’t wish to be caught staring, but unlike the others who was all amazed at the size of the sword she carried the blond elf who name was Aval, only cared about the woman. As she thought no swords could be a dangerous threat without a wielder to carry them. She was partly right, the Kasul wouldn’t be as big a threat as it is now with Ranko, but even without it still held powers that the mind of human, elves, dwarfs and inhuman things alike could not imagine in this day and age. Aval sat up from her seat and walk toward Ranko ignoring the loud whispers that told her no, unlike them she wasn’t afraid of outsiders she just didn’t like suspicious looking people.
“Hello stranger,” she began standing behind Ranko.
Ranko turned her head slightly to see the blond elf from the corner of her eye before dismissing her and returning to her meal as she pick up the golden cup full of red wine and taking a rather large gulp from it. Vex she was being ignore she decided to once again break the silence that hung over both women and the rest of the room,
“What your name stranger?”
Still no answer came from Ranko lips as she proceeded to chewing her meals and then allowing it to slide down her throat when it was ready to, while the dim maroon auror of the Kasul glow unnoticed by Aval or anyone else as it reacted to the strong soul of the woman elf as it auror then fade away slowly before one eyes could notice it, but luckily for it all eyes was on Ranko.
“I guess it’s polite to introduce one name’s first, I’m Aval, what yours?”
“Ranko,” she replied dryly as she pick up her drink again and took another gulp from it.
Aval pulled out the stool next to her as sat down beside Ranko, her elbows resting on the table as
Secrets to Immorality
her hands still held the pumpkin juice filled cup. The first thing that did catch Aval eye was how emotionless Ranko seemed to be, but giving the fact all they was doing were eating, this was a bad time to judge on one facial expression when they are trying to eat.
“My friends are just dying to know how you came across such a unrealistically large sword.”
Ranko prolong answering as she took another bite out of her meal and shallowed, still ignoring the glares from the other elves, they were either staring because they found her attracted, buzzard, or they was staring at the Kasul as Ranko figured those was the only choices.
“None of their business.”
Aval sighed and rolled her eyes while Ranko wasn’t looking, easy to say Aval was a quick one to judge and already she thought this woman was just an annoyance more than a threat but since she was here already she might as well see how much information she could get out of her, maybe it would put to rest the fear coming from the other elves in the room. She shot a glance at them to get them to stop staring as it was annoying her even more than Ranko attitude.
“Where you from? Or is that none of my business?”
“Why do you want to know so much?”
Ranko eyes locked onto Aval as for the first time Aval got to witness the harsh coldness that radiated off of Ranko face. Her eyes reminding her of the blood that flow in every creature, her auror being as cold as ice as Aval was the first to break eye contact as she took a long sip of her pumpkin juice to buy her time to think of something to say, it was obvious both had high suspicion of the other as Ranko never allow her eyes to leave the woman as Aval finish her pumpkin juice and place it back down on the table.
“Just trying to start a conversation stranger.”
“I’m from Fano.”
“Fano? Long way from home stranger.”
“I’m just passing through.”
“I’ll be honest, I’m only over here because my kind are scared to death of your unusual long sword.”
“Their smart to be afraid.”
Aval cock a eyebrow as her facial expression show more curiosity than suspicion now upon Ranko and the words that escape from Ranko lips Just what exactly was so special about this sword? Yes you and I both know little of what the Kasul can do to a person, but Aval however did not. And if I could have it my way I would wish for her to never have to witness the power of the Kasul, but sadly that will not be as she would have the pleasure to know why exactly Ranko said they was smart to be afraid. She leaned closer to Ranko, daring to restart their staring contest that they had going a little while ago. Aval face was only a few inches away from Ranko, to one who didn’t know any better you would swear they was a few seconds away from kissing.
“Where you heading to stranger?”
“What’s it to you?”
“Just, curious.”
“Such curiosity could get a person kill.”
“Is that a threat stranger?”
“It’s a statement. Where I go and what I do is of no concern to you Aval.”
“I never seen eyes quite like yours before, they seem unnatural, evil, deadly. Everything about you from your face down to your toes seem deadly.”
Chapter Four
Ranko just smirked, being the first emotion Aval had the pleasure to witness since Ranko enter the tavern, this was also one of the more interesting conversation Ranko had has for the last five days. Her smirk then faded away after the passing of ten seconds, and Aval wasn’t getting a better feeling from the woman, smirk on her face or no expression at all.
“You have no idea.”
Ranko place down enough gold to pay for the meal as she stood up from her stool, still keeping eye contact with the blond elf as she began to back away.
“Have a good day,” Ranko said finishing with a wave.
With the stares leaving Ranko sight she exit the tavern leaving Aval still getting the image of her blood red eyes out of her head. Ranko proceeded to the exit of the town but her ears was taken over by the sounds of a boy repeating the words stop. Her head turned to the right to see a boy who was being bully by two older elves, though they appear to be around the teenage years. The little boy had short wild blond hair with brown eyes, and unlike the rest of them he had no pointed ears and he was not a elf. Ranko could’ve dismiss this, claim it none of her business and move on, but something about seeing that made her stop. She hated those who bully the weak, it reminded her of her father. And even though Ranko had bully Maricul, Maricul was never consider weak by Ranko standards. Maricul can usually hold her own against Ranko just fine, even though she rarely beats her.
“That boy is none of your concern, leave them be!”
But this time Ranko ignore the words of the Kasul as she did back at the tavern outside of her hometown. When one of the two elf raise their hand to push the boy again Ranko grab it and snap it back, using too much strength she ended up breaking it out of socket as the man scream in pain like a baby, as Ranko push him away. The second elf went right on the defensive and threw a punch at Ranko, he soon realized his mistake as Ranko grab the arm and pulled on it flipping him over her head and onto the ground, though he quickly got up and went to his friend aid.
“Not so fun when they fight back is it?”
The two elves ran off as Ranko turn around to look down to the little boy who look to be the age of seven as she got back up to his feet.
“T-T-Thank you mis.”
“Don’t mention it kid.”
Just like everyone else, when the boy saw the size of the Kasul sword when Ranko turn her back on him, his eyes widen greatly as he was in shock.
“Big Sword Momma!”
Ranko froze and turned around to face the kid half way with her eyebrow raised.
“What did you call me?”
“Big Sword Momma, looks suiting. What is that?”
“A sword... People been using them for years to kill other people.”
“Have you killed anyone?”
“You can say that.”
“Why?”
Ranko groaned at all the questions. Kids just asked too many questions, why couldn’t he just be thankful someone help him and leave it at that? Instead he has to ask several questions from just seeing one object. One or two questions Ranko wouldn’t mind but she could see where this was going, and she didn’t feel like answering so many questions.
Secrets to Immorality
“They gave me no other choice.”
Ranko didn’t know why she was being so honest with the boy, she trusted him for a strange reason. Kids was usually rather just cute and innocent, and it wasn’t like she could lie. She didn’t believe kids was idiots, ever hear a old expression kids are like sponges? They absorb everything? Okay maybe that wasn’t around back then in their day and age, but if it was Ranko would believe in this, though if only she knew the right to remain silent she would do that and walk away.
“Why?”
“You ask too many questions kid. I gotta go.”
“My name is Kirkan, just thought I’d say. What yours?”
“Ranko.”
Ranko said no more as she made her way to exit the city, the elves that have been watching done nothing only because Ranko only succeeded to help a kid, though she wished they were paying more attention to the happenings of their own town then being too focus on watching her every waking moment since she step into the city. She was relieved to be out of the city and back into the wild of the New Country as she stood there looking at the beautiful view of the day as she ponder on where to go next.
“What am I to do now?” Ranko asked.
“We need to unleash your true power onto the world, but we need certain tools to do this with. You see Nara has a temple that has a entry way into the lake of fire, hell itself. This is where your true powers can be unlock in the fire of hell itself, it was sealed away by Semi warriors so it can never again be unlock without the right tools.”
“Which is?”
“Five crystals that each hold a special power on their own. You need each to put on the door to unlock the temple and enter. Semi trusted each to a certain dragon to guard for all time. There is a white crystal, black, red, blue and green. The nearest one from here is the black crystal it holds the powers to grant one with a black heart, their deepest desire.”
“Their, deepest, desire?”
“Just continue on this road my baby, and we will find the cave that holds the Black Dragon that guards the crystal.”
Ranko found it funny that a black dragon was guarding a black crystal. Are they really guarded matching the same color as their dragon guardian. When Ranko asked she was told it would take three days to get to the cave and that she had to reserve her strength and speed for the dragon. They was the second most powerful creature in the world so Ranko understood why she had to reserve her power, but she was vex that she had to travel for three more days when she felt so close to her current goal, yet so far at the same time. Soon it was night as the wind grew cold along with the air Ranko breathed. Her senses started to react as she came to a stop, feeling like she was being follow. Have you ever had that feeling that you were being watched, or being followed? Ranko felt both these feelings the only difference is she knew for sure she was being watched and follow, by who was unknown to her as of yet. When Ranko hearing pick up the foot steps behind her she spun around and unsheathed the Kasul, it came inches before the person stopping in front of his neck as the person screamed. Their screams sounding like a seven year old boy as Ranko blinked, seeing Kirkan whom she met back at the village. The heart began to skip a few beats but settle down once he saw Ranko sheath the blade.
Chapter Four
“Why are you following me?”
“You’re human aren’t you?”
Who answered a question with a question anymore? Ranko ponder on how exactly to answer this question, she was a human but she had company. That was the short and easy way to sum it up, but it still left questions in and of itself.
“More or less.”
“Well as you can see,” he began pointing to his ears, “I’m not even a elf, I’m human like you. I don’t belong there.”
“What is a human doing among them anyway?”
“I was adopted by my Elf Mommy Aval, but I haven’t fit in ever since, that why those two was picking on me. But when I saw you I saw my own kind, I feel I should go with you Big Sword Momma.”
Ranko eyebrow rose again as the name Aval rolled off his tongue. The same lady he met back at the tavern. She couldn’t afford to allow the kid to come with her, for two reasons. The obvious reason being what her mission was, and the second being because she knew Aval was looking for any reason to strike at Ranko, and this could be enough to send her over the edge. She look like the type anyway, and since they were judging her by the cover she thought it was fair to do likewise. Eye for an eye, as they would say.
“Just call me Ranko kid, and go home, trust me you don’t want to come with me.”
“Please!” he pleaded.
He got down to his knees and wrap his arms around Ranko legs tightly holding onto them. Ranko look down at him in a annoyed look as she tried to shake him off her legs but he wouldn’t let go no matter how hard she tried to shake him off, and she ignore the Kasul simple words of striking him down. Ranko could not bring herself to kill a child who knew not what he did.
“Look, your mother would be worry sick about you, go back to her.”
“I wanna stay with you Ranki!”
“You can’t— Did you just call me Ranki?”
“I think it cute, I like Ranki,” he replied with a cute smile towards her.
Ranko sighed as she bow her head in defeat and ignoring the protest from the Kasul that enter her mind once he knew what she was thinking her red pupils look down to the boy as her face was still as cool as it ever been.
“Let go or you can’t come.”
Kirkan smiled as he let go of Ranko legs and got back up to his feet taking a hold of Ranko free hand as he continue to smile that cute innocent smile as Ranko manage a real smile of her own. Not just a smirk, nor a fake smile, it was a real live smile. Still ignoring the protests from the blade she led the boy down the long path to the dragon cave. There was peaceful silence in the air as Kirkan just look around the area with his eyes widen as he rarely ever been outside the town at all. Always told it was too dangerous, but so far he didn’t see why. It was beautiful out here and he felt safe around Ranko, as he kept close to her side with his hand firmly wrap around her own.
“You have no time to babysit Ranko!”
“He wouldn’t leave.”
“Then you make him leave.”
“I can’t hit a child.”
“Never said you had to hit him to make him leave. But it’s not can’t that’s stopping you, you

[Ayen]

Secrets to Immorality
won’t.”
“Silent, I’m the master here Kasul. The kid won’t be a problem.”
One would say this was said too soon as the silence was broken to the rumble of one’s stomach. Ranko turned her head to look down at Kirkan who was smiling embarrassed at his raging on stomach that demanded food.
“Do you have anything to eat?” Kirkan asked.
“No, I just ate.”
“And you didn’t get any food in town?”
“I don’t have the money to buy food.”
It was true, her pockets was empty at this point in time as she been too caught up in her journey to gain the true power Kasul claims that she has. Ranko eyes spotted a deer as it was taking a drink of water.
“We’ll have to get food the old fashion way.”
Ranko motion for Kirkan to stay put as Ranko feet stalk the ground not making a single noise. If you had nothing but your ears to trust you up to this point you would have no idea Ranko was sneaking up on you, her sneaking act was near perfect as she was now behind the deer, it finally turned around only to be strike down by the Kasul sword. Ranko drag the dead deer back to Kirkan who was just standing there looking sad at the death of a animal. Ranko then went off and collected firewood as she tap the tip of the Kasul sword onto the wood after it was all gather and the sword itself started the fire cooking the deer.
“There, food.”
“I don’t like eating animals.”
“You either eat or starve, I’d make a exception just this once.”
“Thanks but no thanks.”
“Fine, starve to death, see if I care,” she said irritably.
Turning her back on the boy as she began to walk away. Kirkan just looked sadden as his stomach roared in hunger once more. He ran over to a near by apple tree and climbed up, picking out a apple and taking a bite out of it. He pick a few more, as many as he could carry with him and ran to catch up with Ranko. He smiled as he held up one to Ranko.
“Want one?”
“I said I just ate did I not?”
Kirkan frowned a little as he just help himself to his apple not being bother by the cold wind of the night. Ranko came to a sudden stop as she sense something else close by, this auror being darker than the last as she held out her hand in motion for Kirkan to stop walking. He look up to Ranko wondering what was going on as Ranko hand reach for the hilt of the Kasul blade strap to her back.
“Your senses are getting better my baby.”
A loud moan soon filled the area around them as a man appear out of the shadow. His skin had decade and he held the smell of death on his body, as he look to be among the undead, a brainless zombie looking for a bite to eat. Kirkan grip Ranko arm shaking in fear at the zombie that had appeared out of the darkness. His moan was shared with others as seven more zombies all of the male gender had also came out of the darkness.
“We have cross the zone of the undead such as these. Their soul already lost but let have some fun with them shall we?”
Chapter Four
Ranko could see the fear in Kirkan eyes as she glare back to the eight zombies just stalking the two as Ranko drew the Kasul and pointed it blade at the group.
“Stay at my side Kirkan.”
Ranko eyes glew like a burning fire as she lunged forward, cutting right through the zombie chest as it crumble into ash by the time it hit the ground. Ranko turned around and saw the second zombie running at her, swinging it arms to hit Ranko face. With her unarm hand she caught the incoming arm and twisted it back as she slice the Kasul through the zombie body and then thrusting it forward into the zombie face as it dusted. Kirkan stay by Ranko side but keeping a safe distance in fear that the blade would cut him by mistake. When Ranko saw a zombie heading for the kid, a orange fire surrounded the Kasul blade as it unleash from the blade and cover the zombie in a fiery inferno as it ash after being burned alive. The remaining five all surrounded Ranko in a circle. Ranko just snorted as she spun around but the zombie leap back and then all charge Ranko at the same time. One manage to bite her neck, as she impaled it with the Kasul and threw the zombie into another one before it burst into ash. The other two zombies charge at Ranko and she jump over them, spinning around and chopping off both their head as their dust blew in the wind. She turned around to see the zombie she knock down wrapping it arms around her leg looking to bite down on her ankle but Ranko thrust the Kasul into it skull as it rotted into ash. Kirkan was happy to see Ranko win as he clapped his hands together.
“Yay Big Sword Momma!”
Ranko re-sheathed her blade as she turned around to look at the boy, smiling slightly. This boy must’ve been the only one that could make her smile, therefore showing Ranko still had some human emotion within her, no matter how much the Kasul liked it, it couldn’t stop her from smiling at the boy.
“We should get back to the fireplace I made, it’s getting late.”
“But I’m too scared to sleep, what if there are more of those things?”
Ranko walk up to the boy and kneeled down in front of him to be at eye level with the boy as she rested a hand on his shoulder smiling once again at him.
“Then Big Sword Momma will keep all the scary monsters away while you sleep okay?”
“What about you? Won’t you be tired?”
“I’ll be just fine, all right?”
Kirkan nodded and kissed Ranko thank you, which in our day and age would look very wrong to the eyes of some, but of course it meant nothing here, as Ranko stood up to her feet and allow the boy to take in her hand as she led him back to the campfire. Doing exactly what she promise sitting near the boy head as he laid down and looked into the fire as his eye lids felt heavy and they closed. Ranko ran a hand through his hair as she look down finding him cute while he was sleeping.
“You shouldn’t get too attach to this boy Ranko.”
“What is it to you who I grow attach to?”
“Feelings can make a warrior weak, your enemies can very well use this against you if they knew this.”
“Let me worry about that.”
Ranko just look down to him, not understanding what she was feeling. She was however always good with children as her grandmother always told her she would make a great mother some day, but she never saw herself having children to tend to. And then Kirkan comes along and makes
Secrets to Immorality
her feel different. Bringing back the loving, caring, Ranko that Maricul once knew. Maybe she had a weakness for children, something about their innocence or anything about them that made her unable to be mean to many. Whatever the reason she just enjoy the company of another besides just talking to the sword all the time. She felt no evil aurors around as Ranko laid right behind Kirkan. Knowing her senses would wake her up the minute something began to come close. Wrapping her arms around the boy and holding him close she gave into the will of sleep as her eyes closed and everything went dark.
Soon it was the birds song that awoken Ranko ears as her eye lids came open seeing the kid still sleeping near the dead fire in the fireplace as Ranko sat up and look around. How was she going to tell this kid what she was doing without him freaking out? She had failed to think this far ahead and now it was far too late for any of that. She stood up and step off to a near by tree, knowing better this time she pick out fruit like apples, and oranges and came back to the camp and saw Kirkan opening his eyes as he sat up and ran his hands in his closed eyes as he look over to Ranko and smiled.
“Morning Ranki.”
Ranko toss a apple to Kirkan as she took a bite out of the orange and chewed it up. Ranko didn’t eat that many fruit but she wasn’t a stranger to them in the past, since her mother and grandmother both had trees that grew fruits in the backyard, she just rarely decided to pick one and eat it. She was more of the meat type, but seeing that Kirkan didn’t like to eat meat she’d thought she would respect that and not eat meat in front of him.
“Aren’t they yummy?” Kirkan asked, stuffing his face with his apple.
Ranko just nodded. She’ll admit they are tasty but she would rather have meat than fruit but for now this would do just fine.
“So where are we going anyway?”
“A place.”
She knew her answer sounded stupid and it would just lead to more questions, but she wasn’t sure how to tell him the truth and she didn’t feel like lying as it would be pointless once they made it to where they were going. And just as she thought the question came in the voice of a light and cute voice,
“What place?”
“A cave...”
Kirkan eyes lit up as he heard the word cave. Kirkan was one that always wanted to go exploring in a cave, and it seems like his dreams would finally come true. If only he knew the reasons behind all of this, then I wonder what he would think of the one he calls Big Sword Momma?
“What kind of cave?”
“Eat your fruit,” Ranko said in more of a commanding tone.
She was getting vex with so many questions, but at least she understood them. At the end of breakfast they set off with Kirkan always staying close to Ranko out of fear of their surroundings. He held out his hand wiggling his fingers wanting Ranko to take his hand. And of course when Ranko look down at him she found it hard to say no. She wrap her hands in his and led him down the road. And after the three days was completed they was standing at the front of the cave. It was completely gray as the inside was pitch black and appeared very scary. Kirkan didn’t want to go inside as Ranko felt the grip on his hand tighten in her.
“Don’t be afraid Kirkan, only people let fear take over them. You don’t want to be weak.”
Chapter Four
“Are you seriously going to bring the child with you?”
“What other choice do I have?”
The Kasul spoke no reply on the subject, instead it quickly changed it, “No matter. The dragon is located at the bottom of the cave, then you can figure out how you plan to fight a dragon while worrying about this boy!”
Ranko just ignored the last words of the Kasul as she enter the dark cave with Kirkan shaking at her side.
“Ranki, I can’t see a thing!”
Ranko didn’t get what he meant at first, she could see just fine. But then she remembered her eyes was able to bleed through the darkness Kirkan however could not see in the dark. Ranko unsheathed the Kasul and cause a burning flame to surround the whole blade that allow light to enter the cave as it walls became a bit more clear, and strange writing that couldn’t be made out at all was on the caves. A obvious old unknown language glowed on the cave wall as Ranko led Kirkan down the thin path of the cave until they came into a more open space.
“Stay beside me.”
Ranko didn’t even have to say that, Kirkan was already by her side keeping his hand in hers not wanting to let go. Shaking in his boots as Ranko was still being vex by the Kasul words. But right now she was too busy within the chamber of her own mind to pay attention to the Kasul words. What was she going to do when she met the dragon that guarded the crystal she needed? She couldn’t afford to have half her mind on the boy, in fear that he’ll be hurt during this. But she still didn’t understand why she cared so much for this boy who she only knew during the three day trip. Ranko then led the boy to the cave wall covered in the strange writing. It was glowing a very light blue color as the first symbol went in a circle and then came down diagonally from the right down to the left. The second one look like a spoon with a added line going up at the end of it. The third one look like a check mark with an added oval at the end of it, as the fourth one looked like a person arm but badly drawn as the last one look like a person face poorly drawn, with just the circle for the head, and another loop that made the eyes and it continue on to the mouth appearing to never be ending until the mouth was finish. Ranko just raised a eye brow at how strange the writings were. In fact it appeared more like random drawings on the walls then writings.
“What is this?”
“Writings of the Dragon. They have their own ancient language that is nearly impossible to translate.”
Kirkan was still at awe at the strange looking writings thinking them to be drawings made by kids as Ranko led him down the wide open area. Keeping her eyes and ears open, as usually wide open areas like this led to something dangerous. And of course Ranko just had to be right about this. She step on a part of the ground that went down under her feet as she heard something rumbling. Kirkan griped Ranko arm very tightly as he shook in fear as Ranko look up and shot out a spark to light up the entire room. And to her dislike she saw a very large stone coming from the right heading down to in hopes to run both of them over. There was no where to go forward so the only choice they had was to run left and hope there was a exit near here that the stone could not follow. Ranko tug on Kirkan arm as both of their legs began to pick up in speed as neither wish to be run down by a giant bolder that wish them harm.
“Look at you running in fear, this is not the behavior of a true devil. Destroy the bolder!”
Secrets to Immorality
“There’s no time to!”
“DESTROY IT! Because it’s blocking your way!
Ranko just ignore the sword, but when she saw a dead end coming up she realize the only way further in the cave was pass the bolder. She came to a halt and Kirkan heart could almost be heard in Ranko ear even though she wasn’t close to his chest. Or perhaps it was the enhance hearing of the Red Devil, but either way she had no time to even ponder on it. As she lunged forward and swung the Kasul blade into the bolder and slice down it. Cutting the runaway bolder in half as it split ends fell to the ground. Hearing clapping come from the little boy as she sheathed her sword and began walking forward.
“This way.”
Luckily the well known quote, “I told you so.” haven’t been heard of yet, or the first thing to come out of the Kasul mouth would’ve been, “I told you so.” It had told Ranko that was the way to go but of course she thought he was mistaken. She just ignore the sword chuckle proud of being right as Ranko enter the next part of the cave. This time what lies before them was springs full of acid as Ranko pulled Kirkan closer to him as they carefully avoided the acid. They came deeper and deeper into the cave as it became darker and darker. Soon the light provided by the Kasul went out as Ranko and Kirkan was now in a pitch black room. Not even Ranko eyes could bleed through this darkness as neither could see. They also could not see the giant black scaled cover dragon that laid before them in the darkness cover room. It eyes open and they showed to be a purple color and full of malice as it lift up it head. But the room was so pitch black Ranko could not see any movement, and with the dragon color it blended in perfectly with the pitch black, but now even Ranko could not see her own hand in front of face. It was the sound of the black dragon roar that warned the two of it presents as in a result of it roar torches around the room lit up to bring light into the room and reveal the black dragon to both Ranko and Kirkan. Kirkan once again cower behind Ranko holding her tight as Ranko stared into the purple eyes of the dragon completely unafraid.
“Who dare to disrupted my slumber?”
“I do,” replied Ranko, “You have something I desire.”
“Leave this place human, what lies here isn’t worth your life.”
“I believe the question here,” she began, unsheathing the Kasul, “Is it worth yours?”
The dragon roared in anger again as Kirkan went over into a corner and sat down, hugging himself as he watch the ongoing battle. Ranko lunged into the air and swung the edge of the Kasul blade for the dragon face, it easily pull it head up to avoid the attack as it swung it claws smacking Ranko down onto the ground. Ranko just lied there for a moment seeing the dragon open it mouth, when it did Ranko unleash a wave of black lighting into the dragon mouth but to her surprise that only charge it own attack as it release a wave of black fire onto Ranko body slightly burning her. She hiss in pain as she got to her feet and jump back away from the dragon.
“What are you thinking using a dark element move on a dark element monster?”
“I thought it would work.”
“Thought isn’t good enough, it is never good enough.”
The dragon open his mouth again but Ranko lunged up high in the air avoiding the flames as she landed on it head and thrust the Kasul into it skull, it was about to rip through the scales easily before it shook it head hard to the right causing Ranko to lose balance and fall off it head, it claws now under Ranko body catching her in the middle of the fall as he slam her on the ground.
Chapter Four
Kirkan cover his eyes not wishing to see anymore as Ranko got up from the ground only to be smack into the wall with his tail.
“Get up! GET UP!” yelled the Kasul.
Ranko indeed got up only to be knock back down by a head butt from the dragon crashing her back into the wall, now biting down onto her chest slightly throwing her to the other side of the room as she rolled around on the ground. Ranko felt like a rag doll being thrown around by a larger than life man. She hated the feeling of being weak, of being helpless. Her eyes was now burning as she truly felt the power within her. She got back to her feet and as the dragon head was coming for another head butt, she thrust her blade right for his right eye, carving it out of it socket as the dragon scream in pain. Now Ranko kick it jaw in as she cut out if second eye, the dragon pull it head back and let out a sound that could be understood as weeping. I for one almost pity it as I write these words thinking about the events in this cave, while Ranko became merciless in the eyes of all that saw this. Though the only eyes that now witness the battle was Kirkan. He couldn’t look away, he continue to stare at the fight scene scared on how Ranko seem to changed attitudes during a battle. Ranko held out her sword and felt energy running through her body. She was thinking of a quick way to end this battle, if only she had that acid in the other room, that would be quite a way to end a battle. And then as she thought about it the Kasul reacted to her thoughts and glow a bright lime green color as acid was summoned toward them. Being held at the tip of the blade like a spell would be, as the dragon follow it nose to Ranko. When it open it mouth to shoot out flames Ranko unleash the acid into it mouth, and one did not need ask what happen next. The dragon felt a hot burning pain inside it, as the acid burned and killed the dragon from the inside out as it dead body fell limb onto the ground. Kirkan was still too horrified to clap or speak any words as Ranko sheathed the Kasul.
“Good work, my baby.”
Ranko step over the dead body, respecting the dead you could say. As she look down to a golden chest that shine in the dim lighting of the torches. She knelt down in front of it and open it up. But instead of a black crystal resting on the confounds of the chest, it was empty. Nothing but dust had collected inside the chest as no crystal, nor gold, nor anything rested in the chest.
“There, there nothing here.”
“Impossible! There has to be something in there!”
“There isn’t... Could someone had gotten to it before us?”
“No, or else the dragon would’ve already been dead.”
Ranko had no time to go back and forth with the sword as she heard foot steps from behind her. When she turned her head she saw the tip of a blade aim point blank in her face. Point blank meant there was no way to dodge it if the person behind the weapon used it, as the mind could not think fast enough to react before the deed had been done by the user weapon. Ranko also saw Kirkan being grab by one of the men, as both were elves.
“Let him go!” Ranko growled.
But they did not as the man kept his blade near Ranko neck ready to slice it open if he must. Aval then enter the room looking over to Ranko as she order the second elf soldier to let Kirkan go as she wrap her arms around him and hugged him closely.
“Are you all right son?” she asked in a worried tone.
“Yes I’m all right... What do you plan to do with Ranko?”
“Sh sweetie. Don’t worry about it.”

[Ayen]

Secrets to Immorality
Aval peaceful eyes turned into a fit of rage as she stomp over to Ranko, the soldier moving out of the way as she slap the spit out of Ranko mouth before she could react to it.
“Who do you think you are stranger? Taking my son away, bringing him here to a dragon cave where he could have been killed!”
Ranko own anger got the best of her as she grab the woman by the throat, holding up the Kasul up to the man chest obviously threatening to impale his heart if he dare made a move. Her blood red eyes piercing into Aval’s as the two glare at each other for a full minute. Even if Aval felt like she was staring into the eyes of Satan himself she didn’t back down as Ranko heard the pleads of Kirkan saying to both not to kill the other. Ranko then push Aval away keeping her blade held up in defense.
“I didn’t kidnap your boy. He followed me, so I had little options but to keep him safe while I did what I needed to here.”
“You should have turned around and sent him home.”
“Then he would’ve just follow me again when he would never catch up to me, and probably would’ve been eaten on the way. I did what I thought was better at the time, I had every intention on bringing him back to you.”
“Sure you did. Why are you here anyway? Why kill this dragon!?”
“That isn’t any of your concern now is it?”
“Why should I believe you haven’t kidnap my boy? I’m use to people lying to me.”
“And I’m used to people judging the action before understanding the meaning.”
“Save it for a judge. Arrest her.”
The two elf guards just glance at each other, then back to the large sword Ranko held as she just smirked at the mere thought of these two trying to grab her.
“I advise you let me go, I wish no harm on either of you. You have your son back, now I’ll leave in peace.”
“ARREST HER!”
“Everyone have to learn the hard way...”
Ranko spun and beheaded the elf soldier. Aval move her hands to cover Kirkan eyes so he wouldn’t see the sight but it was far too late, he had already seen with his own two eyes the terrible image of one losing their head, and I don’t think I need to get into much detail about it. The second elf soldier rush but he never got to her as she unleash a fire spell that burned him alive. While she was doing this Aval took out her bow and arrow and fire a single arrow through the air that hit Ranko chest. But to her surprise it hurt like hell, for the silver arrow was obviously bless. Ranko felt weak, but only a little as Aval fire another arrow at her stomach causing her to fall to one knee. And finally Aval fire another arrow next to the chest area that cause Ranko to fall to her back. Kirkan step in front of her mother line of fire as she had every plan on killing Ranko where she laid.
“Out of the way Kirkan.”
“Please! Please don’t kill her!”
“She’s a murderer Kirkan!”
“Your suppose to uphold the law not break it!”
During this Ranko had manage to roll over onto her face and use her hands to pull herself up to her knees, while facing away from both Aval and Kirkan. Still feeling the burning pain from the bless arrows, she wrap her hand around the end of one of them and pulled it out of her.
Chapter Four
Hissing due to the pain they was causing her. Aval just patted her son on the head as she put her bow away, seeing Ranko begin to get up and pulling the arrows out of her flesh. Aval sneaked up behind Ranko, appearing to have very light feet as she didn’t make a sound when her feet touch the ground. As Ranko took out the final arrow she felt a arm grip around her neck as Aval put her in what we call a sleeper hold. Cutting out the oxygen in Ranko just enough to knock her out as she let go before she ended up killing her. The Kasul now laying beside Ranko as Aval attempted to pick Ranko up.
“What about her sword?”
Aval turn her head to Kirkan then back to the Kasul as she was dragging the upper body of Ranko still. She release her grip on Ranko and then walk over to the sword. Knowing that back home they would want the murder weapon during the trial. She wrap her hands around the hilt and then proceeded to pick it up, but of course she couldn’t even make it budge. And while she had a hold of it she felt something draining her, as a piece of her soul was yank away from her body.
“YOUR SOUL IS MINE!” yelled the Kasul in her mind.
She at once release the hilt getting away from the sword as she stagger a little.
“Are you okay momma?”
“I’m fine, leave the sword here it isn’t important.”
Aval was still recovering from the Kasul power. If only she knew what had really happen she would wish destruction upon that blade, and worry about her own soul. But for now she knew not the effects it had as she manage to pick Ranko up in her arms and lead Kirkan out of the cave.
When they got out Aval drop Ranko into the chariot they had came in. Putting Ranko hands into shackles that was use as cuffs back before they had any. Placing a silver collar hook to a chain around her neck that would be use to drag her like a animal when she woke, to make sure Ranko could not escape she wrap the chain around her right wrist, as it would choke her if she attempted to run off. The chain was long enough for Aval to climb up on the horse at the end of the chariot. She first help Kirkan up on the other horse and told him to hold on tightly as he didn’t want him sitting with Ranko before she got up on hers, and so they ride into the distance.
Night arrive and Ranko eyes open up to see Aval a few feet away from her. Kirkan was already asleep by this time as now the chain was wrap around the tree Ranko was leaning against. When she saw a chance to run at Aval she took it. Getting up and running forward but didn’t know the chain was there as she felt the silver collar like object around her neck it tighten as you would feel when something was choking you. It cause the chain to tug and made Ranko fall to the ground as she scooted back to the tree. Catching her breath as she turn her head and saw the chain that was wrapped around the tree. Having her fingers tail around the collar as she glared at Aval.
“You hold me here like a dog?”
“Can’t have you running away, now can we?”
“Listen, I didn’t kidnap your son, now let me go!”
“No. Even if what you say is true, you still killed two of my friends, I have you for murder either way. You’re coming with us.”
“Where my sword!?” she demanded, mostly ignoring what Aval said.
“I left it back at that cave. You must be a very strong woman, I couldn’t even budge that thing and yet you carry it with only one hand.”
Secrets to Immorality
“You left it?”
Ranko anger was rising within her as she glare down Aval. If only it was her strength that allow her to carry the sword. But it was of course the Kasul wants that allow her to hold it. But even if that was the case, she still felt the power to break the shackles and the chain and choke the life out of Aval. But she didn’t, and there was one reason why. Kirkan, she could not bring herself to kill someone the boy deeply cared about. She knew what it was like to lose a loved one. The night she saw her grandmother body dead on the ground. Even if she had not shed a tear she still felt the humane feelings one would get when seeing a loved one dead. She was just able to hide her emotions and keep them at bay to do what needed to be done, and that was to avenge her death against the black knight. But now she felt herself at a disadvantage, how could she fight without a weapon? How could she fight without the Kasul? Or could she fight without it? Ranko wasn’t sure what to do until the silence was broken, “Yes I left it. I couldn’t carry you and the sword now could I?”
“It’ll come for me.”
“Swords can’t get up and walk away.”
“But they can float.”
Ranko now had no doubt that the Kasul would come after her, which is why she chose to stay put and just wait. She now just watch Aval expression that cock a eyebrow for Ranko as she place her hands on Ranko shirt. Lifting it up as Ranko just growled.
“What are you doing!?”
“You were wounded last I check, and I can’t have you bleeding to death before we get back to town.”
But when she stare at the places on her body that she knew she wounded, there was no proof of a wound. Nothing at all, not even a scathe on her. She looked into Ranko eyes in amazement as she lower Ranko shirt and scooted away.
“How did you do that?”
“Why should I tell you my secrets? Why don’t you figure it out for yourself?”
Aval gave no answer as she turned around and drop grapefruits onto Ranko lap.
“In case you get hungry. Good night.”
Aval got up to her feet only to drop back down to her knees and lay down next to her son leaving Ranko alone with her thoughts. Looking at the grapefruits as she attempted to pick it up with both hands being in the shackles. Lifting up both her arms above her head and taking a few bites out of it, before letting it drop back down to her lap. She was angry at herself for not being able to do better in that battle. But it was something about those arrows that made her weak. But how could they? In her mind she did not know they was bless of course, so she was mad at herself for what she thought was her being defeated so easily by a mere elf. What if the Kasul no longer care for her, because of her weakness? And decided to move to someone else? But then again why would it do that? Inside Ranko was the devil Nara, so why would it dare go on to someone else? Ranko just sighed as she finally fell asleep within the void of her own thoughts.
The three day trip was the worse three days in Ranko life. Well her life would get worse but this was the worse at this point in time. Being held as prisoner, being treated like a animal as Aval tugs on the chains when they make camp. Even the comforting words of Kirkan couldn’t make Ranko feel any better. She wanted nothing more than to just kill Aval and leave but she didn’t want Kirkan to feel the pain of losing a love one. She could only wait and hope that the Kasul
Chapter Four
would come for her. A week ago she would have never thought she’d be in this kind of situation. Locked up, and being taken to trial while waiting for a cursed demonic blade to spring in and save the day. If you repeated those words in this day and age you could score yourself a one way ticket to a nut house. The days seem longer as Ranko was just waiting for what was her day of judgement. And finally the three days was up, and their was no sign of the Kasul. What if it had abandon her? What if she had no way out of this? She wasn’t about to allow her life to end if they order her death in this town. But when she was about to break out of her shackles she felt her chains being tug on as she was choked and force to follow Aval into Eloto. You can imagine the reaction from the common folk. Being stared down by everyone in the town while Kirkan just look down to his feet as he walked.
“Go home Kirkan.”
“But—“
“I don’t want to hear it, go home and wait for me.”
Kirkan let out a sigh as he look over to Ranko who was still be yank forward by the chain as he waved and ran off inside his house. Now the red eyes of Ranko saw the two elves she had saved Kirkan from before, now mocking her as Aval pulled her into the golden castle at the end of the village. The main hall of the castle was of course just as solid gold as the outside of the castle.
“You’re...choking me!” Ranko spat out while being strangle.
“Good.”
She finally stop tugging on the chains as Ranko drop down to her knees, catching her breath. Looking up to Aval with obvious hate and malice in her blood red eyes. Another elf soldier walk up to the two, with long blond hair and crystal blue eyes looking from Aval over to Ranko.
“What is your business here?”
“This woman is here for kidnaping, remember?”
“Where are the others?”
“Their dead, she killed them.”
“I’ll take the prisoner from here.”
Aval handed the chains to the elf man as he tug on it and drag Ranko across the floor as she was unwilling to follow him by choice. The next thing she knew she was looking up to another ceiling while being yelled at to sit up. But she did not answer the command. She felt like a beaten down dog at this moment. She was pulled up by her pigtail and force into a seat as she was in a throne room. They must’ve been addicted to gold as it was everywhere in every room of the castle. Only the carpet differ from the room, being a deep purple color. A much taller and paler elf then enter the room. His hair was long and as white as snow, his eyes a piecing green color. He wore purple robes and a golden crown that had one single white crystal place in the center of the crown. He sat at his throne as he was silent as the grave for a few minutes, glancing at everyone in the room before speaking, “State your case.”
Ranko looked around the room to finally notice Aval had follow them up into the throne room. She cleared her throat before repeating the whole events of what happened back at the cave. The sight of the dead dragon, and Ranko killing the two elves as she drag her back to the town like a dog. Ranko thought she would leave the last part out about treating her like scum. But it seems Aval had no shame of the way she treated her. The Elf King face became more pale than it already was when he heard that the dragon was killed. This made Ranko raise a eyebrow. Why weep for a dragon over his own kind? And then the green eyes of the Elf King met with the blood

Secrets to Immorality
red eyes of Ranko.
“How do you plead to these charges?”
“Not guilty on the kidnaping, guilty on the killings.”
She could hear the gasps fill the throne room as others began to whisper to each other. It was obvious she was telling the truth. Anyone with half a mind who wish to lie would say not guilty on both accounts, now wouldn’t they? Ranko saw no reason to lie. But what happen next would change the life of elves forever within the pages of history. As the throne room doors was push open and a woman that held a strange similarly to Ranko only her hair was a glowing green color. Her eyes and entire outfit match the color of her hair which held the same hairstyle as Ranko. But it wasn’t the fact that she looked so much like her that caught Ranko attentions, it was the fact that in her right hand held the Kasul blade, both glowing the same auror as the Elf King stared toward the new comer.
“What is your business here!?” the king demanded.
“Well first, I was going to impale this man over here.”
And indeed, as soon as she said the words she thrust the Kasul forward and impaled the heart of the elf guard that was to her left.
“Then I’m going to knock down the man about to run towards me.”
And again another perfect prediction, as the second guard ran to her and was punch hard in the face. It felt like a large monster made of steel had hit him as he flip through the air, being stabbed by the Kasul blade as soon as his back hit the floor.
“And well, to skip right to the point, I plan to send you all to hell.”
Every elf but the King charge at the lady in green, but it would be too late before they realize their mistake. The Kasul blade was now charged with hellfire as she unleash a massive wave of it killing the elves, Aval was the only one that had jump out of the way just in time. But when she got up she felt the flat end of the Kasul blade slam into her skull knocking her back down to the ground. The lady in green walk over to Ranko breaking the collar off her neck and releasing the shackles from Ranko hands.
“Who are you?” Ranko asked.
“It’s me my baby. Didn’t think I’d leave you behind did you?”
The body of the green woman then left as the sword was left behind floating in front of Ranko. She reclaim her weapon gripping the hilt as she look back over to the Elf King that was shaking in fear.
“Ranko! The crystal in his crown! It’s the white crystal!”
“What?”
“The one that grants the wish of a man with a pure heart. Get it!”
Ranko and the Elf King met eye to eye before he began to run away, but Ranko enhance demonic speed easily caught up to him as she was now standing in front of him. He took out a dagger but Ranko grab his arm and twisted it back, head butting the king down to the ground as his crown fell off. Ranko walk over to it and picked it up. Taking out the white crystal from the crown.
“And what would you, want with this?” Ranko asked.
“I should demand the same thing from you!”
“I’d tell you, but it’d be a waste of my time. You won’t live pass tonight anyway.”
“I see,” said the Kasul within both Ranko and the Elf King minds, “The secrets to your immortality as elves. You found the white crystal, and wished that you and your kind would be
Chapter Four
immortals.”
“What’s it to you!?”
“Too bad immortality doesn’t come with invincibly.”
The Kasul blade then charge up more hellfire around it blade as Ranko impaled his chest and then burnt him alive afterward leaving no proof his body was ever in the room. Ranko once again was on top, and she loved it. These people gave her bent up rage that wish to be unleash and gain revenge on them all.
“Ready for some fun, my baby?”
Ranko barge open the doors leaving the throne room as elf soldier, after elf soldier charge at Ranko. Each one was cut down by the Kasul blade and their souls lost forever. They fed the power of the Kasul even more as the events that unfolded here was no battle. But a slaughter of men and women that held up the sword to fight for what they believed in. But each one would die in vain as they were easily cut down by the Kasul. There was nothing but horror in the eyes of the witnesses of that fateful night. Dead bodies flew through the air as Ranko shared no respect for their dead bodies. Everything was cover in hellfire. The once beautiful golden castle was being burnt down with hellfire. Ranko charged up another wave in her blade and unleash it to burn both elves and the buildings around the town. Ranko saw the two elves that mock her while she was coming in, now they shook in fear as Ranko closed in on them.
“Want me to make them do whatever you say my baby?”
Ranko follow the words of the Kasul as she extended the blade toward the two men. Soon their free will was gone as they had been taken over by the powers of the Kasul.
“Command them to do whatever you wish them to.”
Ranko just laughed coldly. She loved the thought of having complete control over people lives, there was something charming to some about playing God with people.
“Sit,” she ordered them, like one would to a dog.
Both of them sat down even though they fought with all their strength to resist, they could not overcome the Kasul powers.
“Bark.”
It was like a force game of Simon says. Both elves barked like dogs as Ranko laughed as they had no control over their bodies. She now mocked them as she was enjoying herself. A eye for an eye as some would call it.
“Roll over.”
Both elves rolled over as the hellfire was burning through the homes as if they were made of paper. Ranko walk up to the two rolling around and told them to stop.
“Play dead.”
But before they could answer this command Ranko impaled both with her sword finally killing them. Meanwhile Kirkan had fled his burning down house as he shook in fear. He then came to a stop just in time to see Ranko killing the two elves.
“Ranki!? Ranki what are you doing!?”
The rage and malice in Ranko eyes faded out of them as they look more peaceful now, and more innocent. She turned around and face Kirkan as he look up to her with tears falling down his eyes.
“What are you doing? Where is my mommy?”
Ranko just extended her hand out to Kirkan motioning for him to come forward.

[Ayen]

Secrets to Immorality
“YOU STAY AWAY FROM HIM!”
Both Ranko and Kirkan turned their heads to see Aval with her sword in hand. Saying she was full of rage would be a understatement, she was furious. The anger had completely took control of her as she close out the distance between her and Ranko.
“DON’T LAY A FINGER ON HIM!”
“It’s obvious he likes me more Aval. Why else would he runaway from home and come after me? You must be a terrible mother.”
“SHUT THE HELL UP! YOU DON’T HAVE A RIGHT TO JUDGE ANYONE! YOU’RE A STONE COLD MURDERER! I SHOULD’VE KILLED YOU WHEN I HAD THE CHANCE!”
“But yet you didn’t. That what’s wrong with people like you, you don’t have the guts to do what is needed to survive. I told you I had no beef with you, that he followed me. But you wouldn’t listen, now would you?”
“GO TO HELL!”
Aval charged Ranko swinging her blade toward her neck, but she merely step off to the side avoiding the whole attack. The Red Devil would only play with her, as she wish not to take the life of Kirkan mother.
“Mommy, Ranki stop it!”
“Don’t worry Kirkan, I’m not going to kill your mother, I’ll merely humor her.”
“HUMOR THIS!”
She leap forward and swung her blade again but Ranko simply block it and shove her away.
“You shouldn’t rush so blindly Aval. And your comebacks need work.”
“SHUT UP!”
Her mind was clouded in anger, and when such a thing happen even some of the wisest of people had trouble thinking things through. Aval swung with no thought but hate toward the Red Devil. As Ranko with a lazy swung of her arms block each attack of Aval blade.
“I’LL RIP YOU TO PIECES!”
“Is that the best you got? Perhaps I should give you a list of things to day so you won’t embarrass yourself.”
“I SAID SHUT UP!”
Kirkan just stood there not knowing what to do. He was crying his eyes out, two people he cared about was fighting. And his mother seemed as to have every desire to fight Ranko to the death, even if Ranko wouldn’t kill her. How long could Ranko play with her before being force to end this in murder? Or maybe the Kasul would wish to finish what it started after sucking out a part of her soul.
“You can’t take it can you? Not so tough when they fight back are you?”
“WHAT PART OF SHUT UP DON’T YOU UNDERSTAND?!”
Aval strength began to pick up as she kick Ranko back. Now leaping forward again but this time as she appeared to be going for Ranko upper body she suck and slice into Ranko right leg. This made Ranko put all her pressure on her left leg as the wound quickly began to heal over. When Aval turn around Ranko spun and kick her in the face with the once wounded leg, knocking her back onto the ground.
“I— I slice through that leg, I know I did!”
“Haven’t figure it out yet? My secret that is.”
“I don’t care what you are! YOU’LL GO TO HELL ALL THE SAME!”
Chapter Four
She jump to her feet at once and swung her blade once more as both swords collided several times as the fight rage on. The image of this would not be one Kirkan would soon forget. Hellfire all around them and two women fighting a battle in the dead middle of it all. It felt like hell to the child, nonstop hell. Aval manage to get the upper hand again as she jump over Ranko and spun around slicing into Ranko back. But her eyes widen when she saw the wound she gave Ranko heal over in mere seconds.
“W-What are you?!”
“Figure it out.”
Ranko did a spin herself, but Aval manage to duck just in time. Then she swung her blade in a uppercut motion cutting open the center of Ranko face, however Ranko only stagger back as that wound also heal over in mere seconds.
“What are you? A devil?”
Ranko backed away as she smirked toward Aval. Even if Aval anger was making her out to be a fool, this fight had been a even match with both women making their swords screaming for more as Ranko was having fun. Even though she wasn’t trying to kill the woman at all, nor win this battle.
“Bingo. What’s the matter Aval? Don’t like what you see?”
The question seem to be a fool’s question. What she saw was Ranko red eyes glowing brighter with the flames of hellfire all around her. This was indeed, in Aval mind, hell. Everything she feared, as if you believed in hell or not, you would have to admit after hearing what it could be like, it was a scary and painful place. And even though Aval was not in hell, this small taste of it was more than enough for Aval to never want to experience the full package.
“Just die. JUST DIE!”
Aval rushed again as Ranko just snorted.
“Foolish.”
Aval then lunged halfway through and swung her blade, Ranko ducked and pulled on the free arm of Aval flipping her over her head and down onto the ground dirty ground. As she did with the teenage elves.
“Pathetic.”
Aval just grunted in anger, and in the fit of her rage she spoke out filthy words which was rude to say to others each time they were spoken. Aval heard Ranko words while pulling herself back to her feet.
“If I’m so pathetic, then why is it I still stand Ranko!?”
“Because I’m not taking this battle seriously,” she answered in thought.
But even though she wanted to use that answer, she respected Aval skill in battle nonetheless and replied with, “I never said you were weak.” Aval was hunch down while standing, looking over Ranko figure. Nothing she was doing were working. Every cut she made continue to heal over at once. But she knew she was not impossible, every creature in the world and out of it had a weakness, one just had to find it. She then remember the night in the cave, her arrows of silver blessings kept Ranko down longer than her attacks. Maybe if she used them again and in the right places, she could end the Red Devil life. She then took out her bow and arrow and fire it in front of Ranko. Ranko just smirked as she lazily swung her sword and repel the arrow away.
“So you do remember my weakness? But not going to work this time, your arrows aren’t faster than my arms.”

Secrets to Immorality
Aval just ignore Ranko words as she began quickly unloading with arrow after arrow, reloading
as fast as she could. But Ranko repel each one away from her, only this time each arrow that headed for her was repelled back to Aval faster than when they were sent to her. Before she could even blink the four arrows hit Aval flesh. Going into both her shoulder and legs making her fall to the ground in result of the attack.
“I say again, pathetic.”
Ranko stalk the ground around Aval as Kirkan had finally seen enough. He ran forward and cover her mother who was trying to pull out the arrow out of her shoulder.
“STOP IT RANKI! PLEASE! Don’t hurt her anymore.”
Ranko lower her sword as she thin her eyes down on Kirkan. She just nodded as she sheathed the blade and then extended her hand over for Kirkan to take. But he almost looked offended at the mere thought of Ranko thinking he would still go with her.
“Get away from me you monster!”
The words cut through Ranko like knife through butter. And I know that saying had been used to death but I can’t think of any other things to say to compare this too. Ranko had cared, and even liked this kid and now she had ruin the friendship they had before these actions took place.
“But... you aren’t happy here right? Because they aren’t your kind”
“I’m better off here in hellfire than with you! And I love my mother!”
Ranko eyes then burned as hot as the hellfire itself as her hand came down and slap Kirkan hard enough to knock him down to the ground. Aval screamed in both rage and fear for her son as she held him even with arrows still in her. Ranko glared down at them both as she turned her back on them and walk away. Explosions now sounding as the buildings around them was being ate away by the fire. As Ranko left them both for dead as she now held the white crystal that the Elf King had kept for many years.
“Well done, my baby.”

(Okay I think that's enough for now, feedback welcome... Btw my grammar sucks so no need to bug me about it...)