Lucas's Perspective:
4/9/2017 - 4:32 PM
After arriving here, I took an inn to take some rest from my journey. But it was short ended...
You ever have one of those days where your system acts like your personal trainer, life coach, therapist, and also your biggest hater? Yeah. That was today.
Morning hit like a slap—no alarm, just pure guilt that I was slacking. So I asked the System what we were doing for training. Should've known better.
「Daily Quest Accepted: 'Grow a Brain.' Objectives: Meditate under magical pressure for 3 hours, analyze three different elemental compositions in the air, and successfully conjure a focused flame using zero chant. Rewards: +1 Intelligence, +2 Magic Control. Penalty for Failure: Eternal shame and me laughing at you for the next 24 hours.」
"You know, you could just ask nicely," I muttered, dragging myself out of the inn bed.
「You could just not be a dumbass, but here we are.」
Fair.
Afternoon came with a heatwave and some minor town chaos—kids chasing after a wild dog, a merchant yelling about stolen apples, and some sword saint slicing a training dummy like he was trying to cook it for dinner. Typical Rinascita. Me? I was sitting cross-legged under a mana-infused waterfall. Yes. A damn waterfall.
System said it was "spiritually beneficial." I called it "an aggressive shower."
Halfway through conjuring my fifth flame, my nose started bleeding.
「Congrats. Your brain is finally overheating. Achievement unlocked: Firebrain.」
"You're gonna keep roasting me while I'm doing your sadistic homework?"
「I roast you because you're doing my sadistic homework. Keep going, fireboy.」
By the time the sun started dipping, I had not only mastered the flame spell but hit a new level. I could feel it—the slight tingle in my core, the glow on my hand, the way my clothes were suspiciously more flammable.
**Status Menu:**
**Name:** Lucas
**Class:** Mage
**Level:** 8
**Age:** 15
---
**Attributes:**
- **Strength:** 5
- **Agility:** 6
- **Endurance:** 6
- **Perception:** 7
- **Intelligence:** 12
- **Mana:** 8
- **Divine Creation:** 3
---
**Skills:**
- Light-Elemental Magic
- Mana Control (Lv. 4)
- Divine Protection of Chaos
---
**Notes:**
- **HP:** 350/350
- **MP:** 450/284
---
7:58 PM – Banquet Preparation
"System, get me a suit. I need to look like I don't smell like some hobo."
「Deploying: 'Rich Bastard' Package.」
With a shimmer, a sleek black suit materialized on me, snug but stylish. I checked the mirror. Damn. I looked like someone who either had money or killed people who did. Hair? Done. Styled back with just the right messy class. Smelled like mint and threat.
「Hair Gel infused with 'Presence Enhancement' and mild intimidation. You're welcome.」
"Perfect. Let's go."
8:12 PM – Not at the Banquet
I… may have taken the wrong turn. Ended up one alley away from a slum where a guy with no shoes offered me "enchanted rocks." Politely declined, ran the opposite way, and finally—finally—reached the gates of the noble's mansion.
"System, please tell me I don't smell like poverty."
「You smell like anxiety and desperation. Spraying 'Noble Aura' cologne… now.」
The Banquet
The mansion was straight out of a fairytale. Golden chandeliers, floating crystals spinning lazily in the air, music being played by a band of elves with instruments that looked like they cost more than my life.
Nobles laughed in their tailored clothes, and elegant women sipped from wine glasses while tossing their hair back like shampoo commercials. There were adventurers too—lean, powerful types. Muscles on display, mana pulsing in the air around them. I spotted at least two A-ranks, judging by their aura. A few B-ranks too, flexing in tight outfits while acting like they didn't want attention. Classic.
Me? I was near the edge of the main hall, sipping something from a glass.
「Hey. You're underage.」
"It's orange juice."
「That's what they said about love in your last life and you still ended up crying in a bathtub listening to sad music.」
"Bro, I'm literally surrounded by nobles. You want me to spit this out like a fool?"
「You can not be a clown for one night. Just try.」
I almost dropped the glass from laughing, but I managed to hold it together and casually sipped my not-wine.
The Noble Arrives
The crowd shifted. People straightened up. Conversations halted like someone had unplugged the party.
Then he walked in.
Lord Avelric.
Tall. Silver hair slicked back. Dark crimson suit with a gold-stitched crest on the chest—Rinascita's flame emblem. His gaze could slice steel. The man moved like he owned the air itself.
He approached me.
Oh no.
「Do not say anything stupid.」
"You act like I planned to."
「You exist, therefore I worry.」
"Lucas Reinhardt," the Lord greeted with a tone that held both curiosity and authority. "We've heard whispers of your talents. I'd like a moment of your time. There is… something I believe only you can do."
I blinked, then smiled politely.
"Of course, my Lord. I'm honored."
Inside, though?
Bro what the hell is going on—
Meanwhile...
Eve's Perspective:
Rinascita, 8:30 PM
The stars above glimmered like scattered glass across the dark silk sky. Their soft light reflected in puddles on the cobbled streets, the air a gentle chill brushing against my cheeks. Lanterns hung lazily from wooden poles, casting golden halos along the path. I walked alone, smiling softly to myself as strangers passed by—chatting, laughing, living.
Their warmth didn't reach me. Not in a bad way... I just didn't need it right now.
I pulled my hood back just a little, letting the cold night brush against my pink hair as it swayed behind me. My boots tapped lightly on the stone road with each step. Rinascita was beautiful at night. Alive but not loud. Like it was whispering secrets only a few could hear.
This is something I have to do alone.
I held that thought gently in my chest, letting it settle there like a decision already made.
Lucas doesn't need to be dragged into this… I don't want him tangled in something that's only mine. This—this is my journey. If I want to find the truth about my past… I'll have to walk through it myself. Even if it's painful.
My fingers curled slightly around my sleeves. I kept walking.
Then—my legs froze mid-step.
The memory struck me like ice down my back.
The nightmare.
It always came in pieces… but last night, the images were clear.
Blood. Screams. My mother's gentle hands, now limp and lifeless. My father's protective stance as he stood between me and those things—those monsters, demons, twisted creatures with red eyes and cruel teeth. I watched them tear everything apart.
And then, me. Helpless. Frozen. Next.
My body trembled. Not from fear. No… not just fear.
I bit my lip, trying to keep the pressure inside. It wasn't just a nightmare. It couldn't be. The way it felt, the way I remembered it even now… it had to be real.
A memory.
The pain in my chest throbbed again.
And then—his face came to me.
Not clearly. Never clearly.
Just the sense of him. The boy who saved me.
Strong. Smart. Brave. So calm, even when I was crying. He didn't speak much, but… he stood in front of me. Just like my father did.
He protected me like… like a friend. My first real friend.
My lips moved before I noticed.
"…But why did you leave me before I woke up?"
A breeze passed, and I hugged myself gently, as if it could hold the answer.
I thought you would stay.
My heartbeat thudded louder now. Strange. It didn't hurt—but it felt… too full. Like something was alive in my chest.
I placed my hand on my heart. Slowly, instinctively.
And with the other hand, I unclipped the tiny locket hanging around my neck. It clicked open, and there—like always—was the picture.
A girl smiling like she didn't know pain. That was me.
And next to her… him. His face ripped off from the picture, but the two of us wore the same outfit—some kind of uniform. Matching.
I smiled faintly, almost without meaning to.
"I wish I could meet you, mysterious friend…" I whispered.
Even without his face, just seeing the shape of him in the photo made me feel… safe. Warm.
Who are you really…?
Before I could fall deeper into thought, a soft noise broke through the night.
A small sniffle. Muffled sobs.
I turned my head toward the alley to my right. Narrow. Dimly lit. Quiet.
Putting the locket away, I stepped toward the sound.
My boots barely made a sound now, my steps careful. As I reached deeper into the alley, my eyes adjusted to the dark—and there she was.
A little girl.
No older than seven. Curled into herself, hugging her knees. Her shoulders trembled with each sob.
"…Mommy…" she whimpered between her tears.
She looked so small. So lost.
Just like I had been.
No. Not this time.
This time… I would be the one who steps forward.
I crouched down slowly, careful not to startle her.
"Hey," I said, softly—like the wind speaking to a flower. "It's alright… You're safe now."
The girl looked up, her eyes wide and filled with fear. She didn't run, but her tiny body shook.
She was scared—but she hadn't moved.
Good.
I smiled gently and tilted my head, trying to show her she didn't need to be afraid of me.
"I promise… I won't let anything hurt you."
The little girl's wide, tear-filled eyes looked up at me. Her soft sniffles were like echoes from a time I couldn't forget. The way her tiny fingers clutched the hem of her dress... it made something warm stir quietly in my chest.
"It's alright," I whispered again, kneeling gently before her, "You're not alone anymore, okay?"
She didn't reply, but she stared at me, still hugging her knees. Her lips were quivering.
"My name's Eve," I said, slowly tilting my head with a soft smile, "And you?"
The girl hesitated, glancing down before murmuring through broken sobs, "...L-Lilly…"
Her voice was so small… so timid, like a candle flickering in the wind.
"That's a very pretty name, Lilly," I said, my tone light and soothing, "It suits you."
She blinked, confused for a second—as if no one had ever told her that before.
I reached out but didn't touch her, just placing my hand gently on the ground in front of her.
"Can you tell me what happened, sweetie? Where's your mommy and daddy?"
She bit her lip, then whispered, "I-I lost them… y-yesterday…"
My breath caught. "You've been here… all alone?"
She nodded slowly. "We came here f-for… for v-vacation… mommy said it was a s-special place… but… but it was crowded, and… and I l-let go of her hand… and then I couldn't f-find her again…"
Tears welled up in her eyes once more.
I swallowed gently, my heart aching at every word. Her small sobs were like mirrors of a past that clung to me in dreams. I wanted to cry too… but not now.
"I'm so sorry, Lilly…" I whispered, brushing her messy bangs to the side gently. "That must've been so scary…"
"I… I waited," she whispered, "but n-no one came…"
I reached forward carefully and placed my arms around her small frame, holding her with soft warmth. "You were so brave, Lilly… waiting all on your own. You did so well."
She shuddered against me, finally letting out a breath like she'd been holding it all this time.
"Come on," I said gently, pulling back just enough to offer her my hand, "Let's find your parents together, alright?"
Lilly nodded quietly and tried to stand—but she stumbled, her leg giving out.
"Ah—!"
I caught her just in time, steadying her tiny body with both hands.
"Careful," I whispered with a smile, "Don't move too much, okay?"
She nodded, a little embarrassed.
I knelt again, looking at the small bruise on her knee. It wasn't too deep, but enough to make walking painful for her.
I took a breath and gently lifted my hand over the wound.
The magic flowed easily.
"🌸O gentle stars above, cradle the pain with light, mend the broken with your warmth… Celestial Bloom. 🌸"
Soft silver light poured from my palm like moonlight on a calm lake. The bruise began to fade under its warmth, disappearing like mist in the sun.
Lilly watched with wide eyes, her pain slowly replaced by wonder. She smiled, small and sweet.
"There you go," I said with a wink. "All better."
She nodded shyly, brushing her dress—but it was dusty, torn slightly at the edges and stained with the grime of the alley.
I frowned gently. "Hmm…"
"Hold still for just a second, Lilly," I said kindly.
I lifted both hands this time.
A soft swirl of glowing water rose from my palms, shimmering like dew. The liquid danced and twirled as it flowed around her body without touching her skin—washing away the dirt and stains gently, as if kissed by rain.
Then, with a small flick of my fingers, a warm breeze swept in—soft and controlled—followed by a comforting heat, like sitting beside a campfire. Her dress dried instantly, the cloth fluffing up warm and clean.
Lilly gasped lightly, looking at her now clean clothes. Her eyes lit up with something more than surprise—relief.
"Thank you…" she whispered, barely audible, but heartfelt.
Then, without a word, she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around me in a small, quiet hug.
My arms instinctively wrapped around her as I smiled, holding her close.
"I've got you now," I whispered softly into her hair, "You're safe."
We walked hand-in-hand after that, her small hand gripping mine tightly. We didn't say much, just… shared the quiet, peaceful night together.
As we passed by a food stall, I felt her grip tighten. I looked down and followed her gaze.
She was staring at the freshly baked sweet buns on display. Her lips parted slightly, her eyes wide with longing.
Her stomach growled quietly.
I giggled softly. "You want one?"
She looked away, cheeks blushing as she nodded shyly.
I led her up to the stall and bought one. The moment I handed it to her, she stared at it like it was the most magical thing in the world.
"Th-thank you…" she mumbled, her voice muffled as she took the first bite. Her cheeks puffed a little as she chewed—too cute to ignore.
"You're welcome, little star," I smiled, gently ruffling her hair.
We walked on like that, her chewing quietly, her other hand still holding mine.
After a little while, I glanced down. "Lilly? Can I ask something?"
She nodded, still chewing.
"Where are you from?"
She swallowed and said softly, "I'm from a v-village called Rivermere… Mama and Papa brought me here so we could explore the town together…"
Her voice trembled slightly again. "I-I wanted to see the stars with them… from the tower…"
I knelt again beside her, looking into her eyes.
"I promise," I said gently, "We'll find them. You're not alone anymore, okay?"
She blinked, and her lower lip quivered.
"You're kind… like the fairies in stories…" she whispered.
I giggled softly, brushing her cheek with my thumb. "Not a fairy, silly. Just a girl who understands what it feels like to be lost."
Her fingers tightened around mine again.
"…But I'm not lost anymore," she whispered.
And for a moment, under the starlit sky of Rinascita, my heart felt light.
I held Lilly's small hand in mine, her fingers so delicate, like petals swaying in the wind. Her other hand clutched the last of the sweet bun I bought her earlier. She had such tiny bites. So patient and shy.
We walked past small stalls glowing with lantern light, the scent of spices and sweet syrupy bread mixing in the air. Shopkeepers smiled at passersby, the chatter of families and laughter of children echoing down the narrow cobblestone paths. Rinascita was alive, and yet… gentle.
"Lilly," I asked softly, tilting my head as I looked down at her. "What do you like to do?"
She glanced up at me, blinked once, then looked down quickly again. "U-Um… I like drawing... animals... and clouds..."
I smiled warmly. "Mm, that sounds really cute. What do you draw them with?"
"Sticks," she said shyly. "In the dirt."
I couldn't help but giggle softly. "That's very creative. I used to do that too, when I was little." I paused, then whispered, "Maybe… you can draw me sometime?"
She blinked up again, her lips curling just slightly into a soft smile. "…Okay."
We passed a candlemaker's stall, glowing with tiny flames dancing in colored jars. The light painted our faces gold as we walked, and I couldn't help but glance at her again. The way she admired everything made the night feel… safe.
But then—
I stopped.
My breath froze. My steps halted on instinct, like my body had touched cold steel.
Lilly nearly bumped into my side. "Eve?" she whispered.
In front of us, a figure stood still across the path, where the crowd had thinned. The flickering lamplight barely reached him. But I saw it.
His forearms—those veins. Not red. Not natural. They were cold. Blue. Like frozen rivers running under skin.
And his eyes—fractured. Like glass shattered inward, as if even his gaze had been broken by something he could never forget.
My hand tightened around Lilly's.
"…We need to move," I whispered.
"Why?" Lilly asked, innocently looking up. "What's wrong?"
But I couldn't answer her.
My heart began to race.
The cold in my limbs wasn't from the night anymore.
Something pulled at my chest.
A memory.
I saw trees, dark and reaching, shadows swallowing the world. I was younger—thirteen? Fourteen? My arms were scraped, my legs numb. My body was being dragged across the forest floor.
Hands in black sleeves. That same uniform. Their laughter echoing behind me. Sadistic. Mocking.
"Please…" I had cried. "S-Stop…"
But they didn't.
My hair was pulled, and I screamed—slammed into a tree. Bark scraped my back. Rain poured endlessly. My vision blurred.
A slap echoed, ringing through my skull. Again. And again.
And they watched. Five of them.
And the boy in front of me—strong, smiling with hate in his eyes—he…
"Eve?"
Lilly's voice cut through the noise.
I blinked.
Tears were at the corner of my eyes.
She pointed ahead at the man with the fractured eyes. "That's Azrael," she said gently. "He saved me this morning… from the mean people…"
My eyes widened.
"A-Azrael…?" I echoed. My voice trembled without permission.
She nodded with the warmest smile. "He's nice… I think."
I looked at her expression—so full of trust. A fragile kind of faith. One you don't question when you're that small. And I…
I turned my gaze forward.
He was walking toward us now.
His face was neutral—expressionless. Almost... empty. But his eyes—those broken shards—never moved from mine. Locked.
And in them, I saw—
That night again.
Another glimpse.
The boy's hand rose in the air.
I closed my eyes. Ready to be hit.
But—
Footsteps.
Not theirs.
Not mine.
From the rain, someone was walking.
I saw him between the blur of raindrops. His expression, unreadable. Cold.
Murderous.
His eyes—void blue. Empty. But aware.
His fists? Covered in blood.
So much blood the rain couldn't wash it away.
The boy who hurt me froze. The others turned pale.
I remembered only one word that left my lips in that memory.
"K-Kai—"
And then everything went black.
Back in the present, I opened my eyes.
Azrael stood still now—just a few steps away.
The night was silent.
The warmth was gone.
But I didn't flinch.
Not anymore.
I stood in front of Lilly, my hand still holding hers.
If he was that same presence from that night…
Then it was my turn to ask—
"Who are you… really?"
Lucas's Perspective:
Avelric led me out to the balcony like we were about to discuss top-secret world affairs, or maybe which brand of wine was better at making people forget their sad noble lives. The night was cool, stars scattered across the sky like someone spilled a bag of glitter on black velvet. Fancy.
The noise from the ballroom faded as the thick glass doors closed behind us. Just the two of us and the sound of overpriced fountains below.
"Lucas," Avelric said, swirling his drink like some aristocratic sommelier. "You've made quite a name for yourself. Heavenly Sorcerer, they call you. And after seeing what you did during the Helios Disaster… I must say, I'm impressed."
I held the wine glass the system insisted was "non-alcoholic," pretending I knew what to do with it. I even did the fake swirl. Elegance 101.
"I'm honored, Lord Avelric," I replied, forcing my voice to sound just the right amount of noble. "But I'm just doing what I can."
We clinked glasses. I took a sip, and the system immediately chimed in.
「 That's fermented. You're underage, dipstick. 」
I nearly spit it back into the glass.
"It's orange juice," I whispered under my breath, eyes scanning for judgmental butlers.
「 Oh yeah? And I'm an air fryer. 」
Bro. I managed to hold my poker face, but I could feel my soul crumbling.
Avelric took another sip, staring off toward the town's skyline. "I'll get straight to it. Grotesques have been sighted… near Rinascita. Marking places. Preparing."
I lowered the glass. "Marking?"
He nodded. "Like how a demon circles its prey before a hunt."
I leaned against the balcony railing, my eyes narrowing. "And what's that got to do with me?"
He chuckled. "You were one of the top five scorers in Solerenne Academy of Sorcery. One of the best of the best, in the entire world."
"…Top five," I said coldly, turning slightly toward him.
"Ah—of course," he corrected with a half-smile. "Didn't mean to insult you. Though honestly, the one who got the top score… probably cheated his way there."
My eye twitched.
"…Cheated?" I repeated slowly.
He nodded confidently. "Yes. A complete nobody. Below average for three straight years. And suddenly in the finale, he wins—barely. He must've cheated. Don't think too much about it. You're clearly superior."
I didn't respond. My fingers tapped against the railing, slow and deliberate.
Cheated, huh? Barely won? I thought to myself. I don't think a perfect score is a "bare win," my guy.
「 Best not to think about HIM. Focus on the grotesque demon-thingies instead of your emotional damage. 」
I exhaled, long and quiet.
"Why are you bringing up the past?" I finally asked.
Avelric's tone shifted, more curious now. "Because I was looking for you… and the girl. The pink-haired one from the Academy."
I blinked. "…Her?"
He nodded. "Yes, the girl who stood next to you in the rankings. Pink hair, blue eyes. I can't recall her name."
A name that burned every time I heard it.
"…Her name was Elfina," I said softly. "The most gifted celestial sorcerer the world ever saw."
There was a long pause. He looked at me, puzzled.
"She is…?" he prompted.
I looked down at the streetlights below. The town looked peaceful. Oblivious.
"She passed away," I said, a bitter breath slipping from my lips. "In the Asura Crisis. Two years ago. She's no longer in the world."
Avelric looked visibly taken aback. "I… I apologize, Lucas. I didn't know."
"It's fine," I replied, quickly. Too quickly. "What did you need me for?"
Avelric gathered himself, putting his drink down. "Right. I needed your help with the grotesques. I believe they're planning to raid Rinascita next—kill and eat the people, perhaps even worse."
He placed a hand on my shoulder, his voice steady.
"If you help me stop them, not only will I pay you handsomely… but I'll owe you one. And in this city, my favors are worth more than gold."
I stared ahead for a moment.
This city. These people. The air that still held memories of someone I lost. A promise I made—to protect.
"I'll need all the info you've got," I said finally. "Anything you've found. And I want access to your scouts."
"Of course," Avelric nodded. "You'll have everything."
「 Here we go again. The emo arc returns. 」
I ignored it this time. Just this once.
Because if grotesques were coming for Rinascita—
—I'd be there, waiting.
Avelric stepped back slightly, straightening his posture. He gave me a long look, clearly trying to gauge my reaction.
"I was planning to discuss the grotesques further, but..." he trailed off, clearly waiting for me to say something.
I leaned against the railing, staring out at the stars above us. "Actually, there's something I need to mention, Lord Avelric."
He raised an eyebrow, a signal for me to go on.
"I'm looking for a party," I said casually, tapping the rim of my glass. "You know, a group to work with on… certain matters."
Avelric chuckled softly. "A party? For what purpose would someone like you need a party? I imagine you could handle most situations on your own."
I sighed, my fingers tightening around the glass. "I'm hunting the leviathan."
Avelric's expression faltered for just a second before it shifted back to his composed noble demeanor. "The leviathan?" he repeated, voice tinged with disbelief. "Lucas, that creature has never been defeated or even successfully hunted in centuries. Anyone who tried, either vanished without a trace or became its next meal."
I gave a cold smile, a wicked glint in my eyes as I glanced back at him. "Its reign of fear will be crushed by me."
Avelric let out a small laugh, though it was slightly strained, as if unsure whether I was joking or deadly serious. "Bold words, Lucas. Very bold indeed. But I believe in your abilities. If anyone could, it would be you."
I nodded, eyes narrowing as I considered the leviathan. "It's only a matter of time before it falls. And when it does, I'll make sure it's by my hand."
He placed his glass down gently, giving me an almost conspiratorial smile. "In that case, I will offer you my full support. If you help me deal with the grotesque threat, I will ensure you have all the resources and assistance you need for your hunt."
I raised my glass in acknowledgment. "Agreed."
We shook hands, sealing the deal under the cool night sky.
With a nod, Avelric turned to reenter the banquet hall, leaving me standing on the balcony, alone. The sounds of the celebration continued behind me, a reminder that the world didn't stop for anyone—not even for the problems waiting to unfold.
I took a long, contemplative sip from my glass, feeling the weight of the situation settle in. The grotesques would be a problem, but they weren't the only thing I had to worry about. The leviathan, the grotesques, this whole city—they were all part of a bigger puzzle.
"System," I muttered, still gazing at the stars. "What do we do next?"
「 Well, first we keep an eye on the grotesques, protect the town, and maybe... just maybe, find some suitable people to join you in your quest. You know, someone who doesn't scream 'hero' at every turn. 」
I smirked. "Oh, I'm a hero now, huh? That's funny."
「 Of course you are, Lucas. A big, bad hero who saves the day and gets the girl, maybe. 」
I shook my head, smiling to myself. "Yeah, I'm a hero alright. Better get used to it."
「 Oh, I'm sure I will. Just don't go getting all noble and preachy on me. It's too early for that. 」
I laughed, a bit more bitterly this time. "Yeah, I know. But someone has to protect this town from whatever's coming."
「 You do that, Lucas. You're the hero, after all. 」
I blinked, surprised by the system's shift in tone. For a second, it didn't roast me or crack a joke. It just... agreed. And that threw me off.
I shook my head. "Wait, hold up. You just called me a hero. What's going on? Are you getting soft on me?"
There was a pause before the system responded.
「 Nah, man. Just calling it like I see it. You're a hero, whether you like it or not. Now go be one. 」
I let out a small chuckle. "Well, thanks for the endorsement."
I looked up at the sky again, the constellations reflecting a quiet serenity I couldn't quite feel. Not with everything on the line.
"I'll find the cure soon. Just wait for me, Mother."
And with that, the party continued below, unaware of the storm that was quietly gathering on the horizon. But me? I knew. And I wasn't going to let it break me.
Not this time.
— Eve's Perspective —
Azrael's voice cut through the silence like a blade through silk.
"Come with me," he said flatly, eyes lowering to Lilly. "I've found your parents."
His tone was devoid of warmth—no kindness, no emotion. Just… words. Meant to be obeyed.
Lilly's eyes lit up, her fingers twitching in my hand. "O-Okay…" she whispered, the corners of her lips curving upward in that soft, shy way of hers.
But I tightened my grip on her hand.
I pulled her back, gently but firmly.
"Don't trust him so easily, Lilly," I said, my voice calm… but guarded. I kept my gaze locked on his.
His face didn't shift. Not even a flicker. Only those fractured eyes stared into mine like he was reading through a window instead of a person.
"How can we trust you?" I asked, slowly.
He blinked once.
Then turned his head slightly, like I wasn't even worth the full turn.
"We?" he repeated. "I don't recall asking you."
His voice was emotionless. Sharp. He wasn't just distant—he was empty. As if care, concern… didn't even exist in his vocabulary.
I felt a chill crawl up my back.
"But she's with me," I replied, not raising my tone, not trembling—but firm. "If you expect her to follow you, you answer me too."
His eyes narrowed just slightly. "Then teach her better judgment," he muttered. "You let her starve in a corner until I saved her."
That one hit deeper than I expected.
My lips parted, but—
"Eve…" Lilly's voice slipped in like a soft wind brushing away the storm.
I turned, and she was looking at me—eyes wide, hopeful, like I was her shield, her safe place. Her little hands clutched mine again.
"We can trust him," she said sweetly.
I hesitated. Still unsure.
But then, she whispered something that froze me more than Azrael's stare ever could.
"…Big sister."
My eyes widened slightly.
Her voice had no hesitation. No fear.
Just… faith.
My heart trembled.
"…Alright," I whispered, gently nodding. "We'll follow him. But I'm holding your hand the whole time, okay?"
She nodded.
As we walked, I felt it. The rhythm in my chest—thump, thump—a little too fast.
I kept my hand wrapped gently around Lilly's, but she glanced up at me and tilted her head curiously. "Are you okay?" she asked.
I blinked, surprised by her perception.
"I'm fine," I whispered with a small smile.
Then her eyes trailed to the necklace around my neck.
The heart-shaped locket.
Her tiny finger pointed at it, shy but curious. "Umm… What's that, big sister?"
I paused.
Then reached for the chain, letting the locket rest in my palm.
"It's something precious to me," I said softly, pressing the clasp and opening it.
Inside was a photo—slightly faded from time. A younger version of me, smiling. Not the one that walked through blood, fear, and confusion.
Lilly gasped softly, eyes sparkling.
"Hey hey! Big sister, is that really you?" she giggled with joy. "You look sooo pretty!"
I couldn't stop the smile on my face. It just… appeared.
Even in the busy night, with voices and clatter all around us—her words wrapped around me like a blanket.
I nodded gently. "Mm. That's me."
Then she tilted her head.
"That uniform… Are you from that academy too, sister?"
I blinked. "Academy…?"
She nodded quickly. "Yes! That uniform is from the academy my brother went to! Were you his friend?"
My breath caught.
An academy. That uniform… She knew it. That meant she knew where it was.
The academy I saw in the photo. The same one I wore—
My fingers curled around the locket. My heart raced.
If she knows the location… I can go there. Maybe they have records. Maybe… maybe I can finally learn who I really am. That boy beside me in the picture… the one I've been trying to find for months.
Was that you, Friend…?
The lead I'd been praying for—it was here. In her words. Just one more question, and I could—
"Mommy! Daddy!!"
Lilly suddenly let go of my hand and sprinted ahead.
My voice caught in my throat.
I looked up and saw her—running straight toward a couple near the edge of the plaza.
Her parents.
Her mother gasped, dropping her bag, and fell to her knees as Lilly crashed into her arms.
Tears streamed down the woman's face. Her father dropped beside them, wrapping them both up. Their warmth—their relief—it spread like sunlight in winter.
I just stood there.
Quiet.
Watching.
Holding that locket in my hand.
Beside me, Azrael remained still. Silent. Eyes forward. That same expressionless mask.
No joy. No pride. No comment.
Just silence.
And I had more questions than answers.
Azrael turned.
No goodbye. No nod. Just the soft shuffle of his footsteps against the stone, fading with each step.
"Where are you going?" I asked, my voice chasing after him before I could even think.
He paused. Glanced at me over his shoulder—only slightly. One cold, detached eye locking with mine.
"To places that don't waste time with emotions," he said flatly.
Then he turned again and kept walking.
I didn't reply. There was no point.
But still… as the distance grew between us, I felt it.
That strange sensation—unease, uncertainty.
When he stood beside me, I thought it was him who was cold. But now, in his absence… it was the world that felt colder.
Was it his presence… that made me feel safe?
I didn't have time to dwell on it.
Lilly's parents approached, holding her between them. Her mother was still brushing back tears, while her father kept glancing down at Lilly like he couldn't believe she was real.
"Thank you…" her mother said softly, eyes glossy but sincere.
Lilly beamed up at them, then tugged gently on her mother's sleeve.
"Mommy! Big sister gave me a bun when I was hungry!" she said proudly. "And she cleaned my clothes, and she helped me when I was hurt too!"
Her mother smiled warmly, brushing Lilly's hair.
"You really took care of her, didn't you?" she asked, eyes shifting to me.
"I just did what anyone would," I said quietly. "It's nothing that big."
"No," her father said, shaking his head. "It is. You kept her safe, warm, and fed. We owe you more than just thanks."
I just gave a small nod, not knowing how to respond to praise like that.
But then, her mother's gaze sharpened—focused. It wasn't hostile… but something in her eyes was searching.
"…Have we met before?" she asked carefully.
I froze.
Before I could answer, Lilly piped up cheerfully.
"She's from the same academy as big brother!"
And just like that… their expressions changed.
Their smiles remained… but they weren't whole anymore. They flickered, like candles in wind.
"Is that so?" her mother murmured, voice suddenly distant.
I could feel something heavy beneath their smiles.
I swallowed, hesitating—then asked quietly, "Can I meet him…? Your son? I want to talk to him, if that's okay. I think… he might be connected to my past."
There was silence.
Then the mother's face crumbled, her lips trembling. She reached up, brushing her tears with a trembling hand.
"…He passed away. Two years ago."
My heart stopped.
"Passed… away…?"
Her voice cracked, like a dam giving way.
"He was a student at Solerenne Academy of Sorcery in Asura. But during the Asura Crisis… he was caught in the chaos."
She paused. Inhaled. Exhaled. Like each word was heavier than the last.
"…He didn't make it."
I lowered my eyes, guilt and shock twisting inside me. "I'm sorry… I didn't mean to—"
"It's alright," she whispered, forcing a smile through her tears.
Lilly's father gently scooped her up and said, "Come on, let's get you something to eat." He gave me a nod before walking off with her toward a nearby stall.
That left just me and her mother.
She wiped her eyes again, but didn't stop speaking.
"Lilly still thinks he'll return one day," she said with a bitter chuckle. "We never even got to see his body. Just… news. Silence. And a grave with no one inside."
My chest tightened. I couldn't even begin to understand that pain.
"I'm… I'm sorry," I whispered.
"It's alright, really." she whispered, forcing a smile again through her tears.
"What was his name?" I asked, almost afraid to know.
She looked at me, eyes still teary—but filled with pride and sorrow at once.
"Axel," she said softly. "His name was Axel. He was my dear son… he passed away too young."
I lowered my eyes.
Axel…
That name… it didn't trigger anything in my memory. But something about it made my chest feel heavy.
"I'm really sorry," I said again, gently placing my hand on her arm.
After a few moments, I reached into my pocket and pulled out the locket again.
"I… wanted to ask something," I said. "Do you know this person?"
I opened it and showed her the picture inside—me, from a time I no longer remembered.
Her eyes widened for a moment. Then, she slowly nodded.
"…Yes. I do."
My breath caught.
"She's Elfina," she said. "One of the top scorers of the academy. Talented… sharp… always so bright."
My lips parted. My fingers trembled around the locket.
Elfina… that was… me?
"I-I'm Elfina?" I asked, voice breaking in disbelief.
I felt something spark inside me. Something real. My name. My identity. After all this time…
But then…
"…She passed away," the mother added in a softer tone. "The same day as my son. During the Asura Crisis. She was caught in the same attack."
My blood ran cold.
My breath hitched.
"What…?"
She looked at me with sorrow. "It was heartbreaking. She and Axel were close… and they both—"
She didn't finish.
Because my legs were shaking.
She passed away…? But I'm standing here…
How… can I be dead… and alive?
My face paled. My hands gripped the locket tighter.
Nothing made sense.
I was Elfina.
And I died two years ago.
Yet here I was… alive, breathing.
What… am I?
Lilly's mother continued wiping her tears, her gaze fixed on the picture inside my locket.
"…Elfina was a kind-hearted girl," she said gently. "I met her once—only briefly—but she was sweet. Caring. She helped me with something small that day, and yet… she made it feel like I was the only person in the world who mattered."
I clutched the locket tighter, my voice trembling.
"Really…?"
She nodded softly.
"You… you look very similar to her," she said. "But you aren't her… right?"
I didn't respond.
I couldn't.
My throat had closed up, and my chest felt hollow.
She looked at the photo again, as if trying to peel memories from it.
"She had that pretty pink hair… and those soft blue eyes," she whispered.
Blue eyes.
The words echoed in my mind. I blinked.
Then slowly… I looked at the photo again.
And my world tilted.
All this time, I told myself it was the lighting. The picture must've faded. The colors just didn't come through properly.
But no.
In the picture… the girl was me. Me.
But she had blue eyes. And I didn't.
Mine were pink.
Pink. Not blue.
Lilly's mother tilted her head slightly, studying me. "Are you… her sister? Or family?"
I opened my mouth.
But no sound came.
"…No," I muttered. "I'm not."
Because I wasn't.
I didn't know who I was.
I had no memories. No family.
Nothing.
She gave a puzzled look, brushing her thumb across the photo one last time before closing the locket and letting her hand fall away.
"…That's really strange," she said quietly. "You act like her… gentle, warm. And you helped Lilly with so much kindness. But Elfina… passed away. Two years ago. I saw her name among the casualties."
I just stood there. Frozen.
She looked at me again with soft eyes, the kind a mother gives when she sees a lost child.
"You're a sweet girl too," she said with a faint, sad smile. "You remind me of her. That kindness… it's rare. But whoever you are… I hope you find yourself."
Who am I then?
That question haunted me.
If I wasn't Elfina…
If I wasn't her sister or kin…
Then who was I?
Before I could fall deeper into the confusion, Lilly came skipping back with her father, a soft doll clutched tightly in her arms. Her smile was bright, her eyes gleaming with joy.
"She picked this one," her father said with a chuckle. "Said it reminded her of someone."
The mother turned to me, placing a hand gently on my shoulder.
"We'll be heading off now," she said kindly. "Take care of yourself, dear. And if you ever need anything… our home is in Rivermere. Don't hesitate to visit."
I nodded silently.
Then Lilly walked up to me with the doll, her little eyes glimmering.
"Are you leaving already, big sister?" she asked, hugging the toy.
I looked down at her. My heart still a storm. But I forced a soft smile through the ache in my chest.
"Yeah… I have to go now."
Her lips pouted, and then without warning, she stepped forward and wrapped her tiny arms around me.
It was warm.
Soft.
I knelt slowly and returned the hug, resting my hand gently on her head.
"Thank you for finding me," she whispered. "You're like a big sister to me…"
My throat tightened again, but I smiled—this time, not a forced one.
"You be a good girl, okay?" I said softly. "Keep smiling like that. It suits you."
She nodded quickly, holding me tighter for just a second longer before pulling away.
"Promise me you'll visit!" she said, waving her little hand.
"I promise," I lied with a soft voice, standing up again.
They turned to leave, and I watched them go.
Lilly walking between her parents, the doll swinging in her arms, her laughter fading slowly in the crowd.
And then I turned the other way.
Alone again.
The streets were busy.
But all I could hear was the question repeating in my head…
If I'm not Elfina… then who the hell am I?
-------------------------------
I walked.
Alone.
Each step felt like it pulled a little more of my strength away, leaving nothing but this heaviness in my chest—like something invisible and cruel was pressing down on me, making it hard to breathe.
The streets were dark, quieter than usual. The lights above flickered faintly, casting long shadows against the stone. My footsteps echoed back at me, but there was no warmth in the sound. Just a reminder that no one was beside me.
That I was alone.
Why… why am I like this?
So lost, so far from anything that makes sense.
I don't even know who I am anymore.
And then, just like that—
The sky broke open.
Rain poured down.
Not gently, not kindly.
But with weight, with noise, like it wanted to wash me away.
I didn't stop.
I didn't run.
What would be the point?
My clothes clung to my body, soaked and heavy.
My hair stuck to my face, dripping.
The world turned cold again, and all I could remember… was that night.
That night in the rain from my memory earlier.
When I was smaller.
When I was weaker.
When they—
…Those boys.
Their laughter.
Their fists.
The pain.
I had cried then, too.
But no one came.
Just like now.
But even that memory—was it even mine?
I stopped walking.
My legs felt numb, but my heart still ached. My fingers went to the locket at my chest, that tiny piece of metal I had always held onto like it meant everything.
I used to think the girl in the picture was me.
That if I stared long enough, maybe something would click.
Maybe I'd remember.
But I was wrong.
That girl had blue eyes.
And I had pink.
My lips trembled.
"Then… who am I?"
The question slipped out of me before I could stop it.
It hurt more to say it out loud.
Like I'd just accepted that I truly didn't know.
That I might never know.
The rain didn't let up.
I dropped to my knees on the wet stone road, my hands hitting the ground, cold water splashing around them.
I leaned forward, letting the rain fall freely down my back, down my face, mixing with the tears I couldn't hold in anymore.
"I'm… not even her," I whispered.
My voice cracked.
"I'm not… Elfina…"
The one in the locket.
The one with the soft smile and kind eyes.
The one people remembered.
"…Why couldn't I be you?" I muttered, pressing it to my chest. "Why… did I ever think I was worth being someone like you…?"
My fingers trembled as they held the locket tight against my chest, pressing it into my skin like it could keep me from falling apart.
"I don't know who I am," I said, my voice cracking. "I don't know anything… not even my own name. I… I'm not even sure if I deserve one…"
The girl in the picture—
She was kind.
"I'm not her… I never was…" I choked.
She was remembered.
She was loved.
And I was…
A leftover.
"If I disappear now…" I muttered, voice trembling, "will it even matter…?"
The cold was seeping into my bones.
"Why do I still exist… when I don't even know what I'm living for…?" I was shaking...
But the emptiness inside was worse.
I curled in, wrapping my arms around myself, sinking lower, my forehead pressing against the wet stone beneath me.
I could feel every beat of my heart as if it didn't want to keep going.
Everything hurt.
Everything.
"I just… wanted to belong somewhere…" I whispered.
I wasn't even crying loudly. Just soft, broken sobs. Like my body didn't even have the strength to cry the way it should.
"I just wanted to be someone…"
A name.
A memory.
A place.
A reason.
Even one.
But I had none.
The locket shook in my hands.My eyes squeezed shut. I felt smaller than ever. Like the world had grown too big and I had no place left in it.
"I don't want to be forgotten…" I whispered one last time, "but I was never even remembered."
My body slumped. I was exhausted. My vision began to blur, not from tears this time, but from the growing numbness. I could feel myself slipping.
Everything turned quiet.
The rain faded.
The cold, distant sounds of the world pulled away—
And just before I lost consciousness—
It came.
Those same memories...
That night. It all came rushing back—like it never left.
The same rain.
The same forest.
The same darkness.
And me, soaked and shivering, with nothing but fear and pain filling my chest.
Slap.
His hand cracked across my face, stinging so harshly that my vision blurred.
Slap.
Again. My head jerked to the side. My legs trembled beneath me.
I cried out, my hands raised feebly in front of me as if they could stop him.
"N… no… p-please…" I begged, my voice shaking, the words barely forming through the sobs. "P-please… don't… I-I didn't… do anything…"
The taste of blood began to mix with the rain on my lips.
My legs gave out but I couldn't fall—he pulled me back up by my hair, pinning me against the tree, bark scraping my back.
His hand tightened around my neck.
I gasped.
My fingers clawed at his wrist.
I couldn't breathe.
I couldn't think.
The world spun.
I looked at him—those eyes full of hatred, that smirk full of cruelty.
He leaned in, voice venomous.
"Oh look… the pride of Celestine," he spat, mocking me. "What a joke. Crying like a filthy little rat."
His friends laughed behind him.
Their silhouettes blurry through my tears, their voices sharp like knives.
"Go on," he said, gripping my neck tighter, "beg me again, you disgusting freak. No one's coming. No one ever will."
"I… I… d-don't… want t-to… die…" I stuttered, tears pouring out as my voice cracked. "P-please… s-s-stop…"
"Aw, hear that?" he sneered. "She doesn't wanna die. Then why were you even born?"
Laughter. Cruel, merciless laughter.
I felt my chest burn.
My throat ached.
My body was cold and bruised.
I just wanted it to end.
He raised his hand again—ready to strike—
And then…
—Everything changed.
Just as Milo raised his hand again, ready to slap me, a voice cut through the laughter behind him.
"Milo! Stop—someone's coming!"
Milo flinched and turned.
Then I saw it too.
Him.
Walking out from the misty edge of the forest path, the rain trickling down his dark hair… his body soaked, his eyes dim under the shadow of the night.
But it wasn't just him.
It was the blood.
Staining his uniform, his sleeves, his chest—so much that not even the rain could wash it away.
My breath hitched.
My tears paused.
My eyes widened.
It was really you...
Milo chuckled, scoffing without a trace of fear.
"Oh look, your weak little boyfriend finally showed up," he mocked, giving me a sideways glance, "Another friend of the filthy rat."
I could barely speak, but I tried. I had to.
"N-no… please… d-don't hurt him…" I begged, shaking my head slowly, weakly. "P-please…"
Milo just laughed and turned to his friends.
"Take care of him. Use your cursed magic—tear him apart."
They nodded.
One by one, each of the five boys held out their hands, letting their magic awaken.
Or at least, they tried.
Their faces changed—confused at first… then panicked.
"What…?" one of them muttered. "Why isn't it working?"
"My spell—!" another said, looking at his trembling fingers.
Milo's smile dropped.
He stared at them. "What're you idiots doing?! Cast again!"
They all backed up, shaking.
"Milo! Our cursed magic—i-it's not responding. It's like… someone blocked it!"
"What…?" Milo turned, jaw tightening. "That's impossible. A barrier like that—doesn't exist."
But it did. And it was.
Because it was him who placed it.
He kept walking forward.
Every step sounded louder under the rain. Every drop of blood trailing down his sleeve made the forest colder.
There was no mercy in his eyes.
No emotion.
Just pure, merciless wrath.
His voice cut through the downpour—calm, but heavy like thunder.
"Touch her again..." He tilted his head just slightly, those black eyes staring right into Milo's soul. "...and I'll bury you where you stand."
Milo flinched. But tried to laugh. "Tch… what, you think we'll be scared of you now? If we can't use magic, you can't either. There's six of us. You're alone."
He waved his hand. "Get him."
They rushed him.
All five.
And I—I screamed.
"No!!" I cried out, voice trembling, choking with fear. "Please! Don't hurt him… please, don't… he's the only one… the only one I have left…"
I clutched the wet grass, dragging my broken body forward.
"He's… he's my only friend…" My voice cracked. "He makes me… feel like I'm still… myself…"
Milo glanced at me again, that twisted grin of his returning like none of it mattered.
As if my words were dust.
As if I was still nothing.
But what came next—
—would erase that smile forever.
---------------------------------------------
The downpour masked the first step.
One of Milo's lackeys, taller and built like a brawler, charged from the right with a wild punch.
He didn't even see it coming—his own body flipped mid-air as a precise side-step and counter sent him crashing to the mud with a cracked jaw.
Another came from behind, trying to grapple.
The dark-haired boy lowered his stance—Fighting to kill. He drove his elbow backward with terrifying accuracy, shattering the man's nose before pivoting to deliver a sweeping kick that knocked his legs out from under him. As the attacker hit the ground, a brutal stomp to the knee snapped it the wrong way with a sickening crunch.
His knee was completely broken.
"Get him! All at once!" one of them screamed.
Four came at him together. But his face—his expression—remained unchanged. Not anger, not excitement.
Only death.
He ducked under a haymaker and slammed his palm into one's sternum—forcing the breath from his lungs. A tight hook—cracked another's ribs with a loud snap. He grabbed the arm of the third—and twisted it mid-motion, dislocating the shoulder with a sharp pop before flipping the body into the other.
"Stay away from me—!" one shouted, but it was too late.
The dark-haired boy launched forward, a flying knee—landing directly into the man's gut, folding him instantly. Rainwater mixed with blood as it sprayed from his mouth.
The final one left standing tried to run.
A low kick—struck his thigh. He collapsed, screaming, as a second kick to the spine silenced him. The boy knelt beside him and slowly, almost mechanically, twisted his ankle till it snapped.
The screams echoed, then fell silent.
I... couldn't breathe.
I watched from the ground, arms hugging my chest as if that'd stop my shaking.
Each strike… was lethal. Each move precise. There was no wasted breath. No hesitation. Just the ruthless brutality of a professional killer who didn't flinch once.
They had all attacked him together. They had cursed me, mocked me, laughed while I begged and cried. But now they all lay twisted and broken in the mud… the same place they had left me before.
My heart raced.
He stood in the rain—drenched, blood dripping from his knuckles, his uniform already soaked and stained crimson. One line of blood ran down his cheek—probably from the wild swing that had barely grazed him—but it only made him look more terrifying. More real.
His eyes… they weren't human anymore.
And yet—I felt safe.
The rain didn't stop. It only grew heavier, like the sky itself wanted to drown what was happening in this place.
I couldn't move. My knees were still stuck to the soaked earth, the mud pulling me down, the cold slicing into my skin. My throat burned from crying, but I couldn't stop watching. My eyes locked on the only person who stood between me and that monster.
Him… my friend.
He didn't even speak when Milo stepped forward, blood and rain mixing down his cheeks. Milo's laugh was dry, brittle, almost afraid—but he hid it behind his usual arrogance.
"You think this changes anything?" Milo spat, rolling his neck. "You're the reason all of this happened. You set us all up—masking our minds, manipulating us like pawns. You're a monster."
My friend said nothing.
Not even a twitch in his expression.
Milo's brows furrowed, uneasy. He scoffed and lunged with a wild punch—but it never landed.
I watched his fist get caught mid-air.
Caught… like it was nothing.
Then the world broke around them.
In an instant, Milo's wrist bent backward, a horrible cracking noise echoing under the rain. Before he could even scream, my friend twisted his arm and drove his elbow deep into Milo's gut, forcing all air out of his lungs. Milo dropped, but didn't even hit the ground before a knee came crashing under his jaw, flinging his body back.
Milo tumbled, coughing blood, his teeth stained red—but he still tried to get up.
He screamed, "You think you scare me?! You don't know what power is—!"
His words cut off with a sickening crack as a side kick struck his ribcage. I heard bones snap from where I sat. Milo fell again, gasping, holding his side, coughing harder.
My friend walked.
Calmly.
With no hesitation, no pause.
Another punch to Milo's ribs—short, fast, brutal. Milo's body curled involuntarily, and just as he did, a foot rose and slammed against his kneecap, snapping it in the opposite direction. He screamed again, shrill and pitiful.
"You... you're insane…" Milo wheezed. "You don't even flinch."
My friend finally responded, voice low. Cold.
"You lost your right to live the moment you hurt her. It ends now."
He lifted Milo by his collar and slammed him against a tree. Milo tried to fight back with his good arm, flailing, punching, but every hit was dodged effortlessly. My friend's body weaved like water, never staying in one place.
A blow to the throat.
A heel driving into the shin, cracking it.
An elbow strike to the side of Milo's face, making him spin. Then he was dragged down into the mud again.
Milo coughed violently, dirt and water filling his mouth, and as he looked up, terrified now—truly terrified—he begged.
"Please... stop…"
But my friend didn't.
He stepped over him, grabbed his broken arm—and snapped it fully. Bone pushed out from flesh, blood washing away in the rain.
"This is for her tears."
Milo screamed.
Another stomp came—this time to the ankle. Then a knee drop into his shoulder. Dislocating it with ease.
"This is for her voice shaking."
He grabbed Milo's head. Slammed it once into the dirt.
Then again.
And again.
again.
again..
again...
again....
The sound of flesh and bone cracking against the earth drowned everything else. Milo wasn't fighting anymore. Just twitching.
And still… it didn't stop.
His head was raised one last time—and slammed again. So hard this time, the tree behind them shook. His face was unrecognizable. Just red. Pale. Swollen. Hollow.
I felt my body tremble, tears falling even as my heart pounded.
My friend stood up, breathing softly—not panting, not exhausted. His fist clenched, blood dripping down to the earth. And then—he turned Milo's body over, sat on top of him, and punched again.
Once.
Twice.
Ten times.
Thirty times..
Fifty times...
I lost count after that. The sound wasn't human anymore. It wasn't a fight. It was something else. The rain couldn't even clean it—it just painted everything in red.
He finally stopped. Milo… wasn't Milo anymore.
My friend stood. His face half-shadowed by wet strands of black hair. His eyes… glowed deep blue.
He looked at me.
I opened my mouth to speak—but nothing came out.
My vision—blurry.
My heart—too loud.
And then… everything turned dark.
---------------------------------------------
The sound of the rain hadn't changed… but something in me had.
When I opened my eyes, everything was blurred. My body felt light—warm. And then I realized…
I was in his arms.
He was carrying me gently through the downpour, shielding me from the cold with his own body. His dark hair clung to his skin, soaked, strands falling over those calm, unreadable eyes. A thin line of blood ran down his brow, but he wiped it away with the back of his hand like it was nothing.
He looked down at me… and smiled.
That same smile. The one I hadn't seen in so long. The one that told me I was safe now.
"I'm sorry for being late, Eve..." he whispered.
His voice—soft and warm—hit something deep inside me. I didn't even realize I was crying until he brushed his thumb against my cheek, wiping away the tears sliding down with the rain.
My fingers clutched onto his shirt, trembling.
I didn't want to let go.
Ever.
"K-Kai…" I stammered, voice small, broken.
But he stopped me, gently pressing his forehead to mine. That smile still there—so soft, so steady, so completely him.
"Yes," he said, "I'm your Kai. I'm all yours."
My chest tightened, and I held him tighter, almost afraid he'd vanish if I blinked.
"I-I… I was scared… I-I thought… I thought you wouldn't come," my words spilled out in stutters, "I… I didn't want to die… not like this… not without seeing you…"
"Scared?" he whispered. "As long as I'm alive… nobody is capable of hurting you."
His words… they wrapped around my heart like armor.
In that moment…
He looked just like him.
The boy from all those years ago.
I was six. The monsters had already eaten my parents. I still remember the blood, the screams. The way I froze, too weak to run, too terrified to scream.
But he came. A boy with dark hair and deep-blue eyes. He fought off the beasts. He held me in his arms. He carried me out. Just like now.
It was him.
It was always him.
"…It's you," I whispered. "You saved me back then… and now you saved me again."
He didn't say anything at first—just smiled faintly, leaned closer, and wrapped his arms tighter around me as the rain fell heavier. Like he was shielding me from the whole world.
His voice finally came, low and warm.
"Because I'm your best friend. I'll always be there for you."
And that's when everything blurred again.
My vision faded. My eyes closed on their own.
But this time… it wasn't out of fear.
It was peace.
Present Time:
My eyes opened. This time, not to warmth. But to silence. I was back at the street I collapsed earlier at, the rain ended.
The wind was cold. The sky still gray.
But I stood.
I wiped my tears, looked up through the lingering rainclouds, and muttered,
"…It's not over."
Even if I wasn't Elfina.
Even if I wasn't the person in that locket.
Even if I didn't know who I was supposed to be—
I'm still me.
And I would find out.
I would find him.
The one who never let me cry alone.
The one who made me feel alive.
My first friend. My only friend. The only one who ever protected me without asking for anything back.
There's something I need to ask him.
Something I need to know.
That… is my new goal.
Not just to survive.
But to find the person who taught me what it means to be saved.
What it means to be held.
What it means to be loved.
And until I find him again…
I won't stop.
No matter what.
Chapter Transition – Third Person
And so, Eve walked.
With the rain behind her and the weight of the past on her shoulders, she stepped forward—each footfall echoing with the soft uncertainty of someone searching for more than just answers.
She was searching for herself.
Her memories, her identity, her place in a world that never gave her time to breathe.
The remnants of her childhood clung to her like fragments of a broken mirror—shards of fear, warmth, grief, and hope. All reflecting a single, unforgettable image… him. The boy who saved her. The boy who smiled through the blood and the rain. Her friend.
Her Kai.
She didn't know if that was truly his name.
She didn't know if the memory she clung to was even real.
But she would find out.
As the gates of Rinascita faded in the distance behind her, her mind was already focused on what came next. The name that had echoed in the corners of every secret, every whisper, every twisted thread of power: Asura.
There, in that shadowed kingdom, the Academy awaited.
There, she would find the truth—about the test, about the masked manipulators behind it, and most importantly…
About him.
Her path wasn't the only one unfolding.
For what Rinascita didn't know… was that its peace was temporary.
Beyond its walls, they waited.
The grotesques.
Creatures born not of flesh, but of nightmares—biding their time, watching, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
The world needed a Hero to defend against them…
And the world needed a Villain to slaughter them all.
Soon… their paths would intertwine.
Lucas—the boy who once saved others with his light, yet carried secrets of his own.
Celia—the girl working to get stronger, her purpose to protect someone, and the name of the one she couldn't forget.
And soon, in a town far from where it all began—Levinton—she would come face to face with a man whose eyes carried a calm that could silence storms.
Was he the one?
Was he her Kaiser?
Or…
…was he something far more dangerous?
To be continued.