image [Pinterest]“He could be anywhere, so keep searching,” a man urged, scanning the wreckage of the fort.
The full moon illuminated the destroyed shrine, casting its eerie glow over the scene. Despite their efforts, the men found no trace of the boy amidst the rubble, only scattered concrete fragments.
“Where are they? What could have happened here?” With no clues, they head back to town to report the situation. Even though they didn’t find anything there but one thing they made certain; the threat to the town is gone, so they can safely pass through that area.
The chandelier was shining from the light reflected by the moon, inside the courtroom where a thoughtful boy and other Borion generals were discussing about something. The boy, worried, explained to the Borions in a dimly lit room, “I don’t know who they are, but if that Grail falls into the wrong hands, it could be dangerous for everyone. We need to find out their intentions.” One of the Borions reassured him, “Worry not! I’ve already sent one of my wingmen to investigate about them and retrieve all the items.” As dawn broke, the boy felt a sense of relief, knowing he wasn’t alone this time.
The trees rustled in the night breeze as the campfire crackled pleasantly. A boy in a stylish crop shirt, which also covered his mouth, rifled through a bag Sehoon had been carrying. Sehoon lay unconscious against a tree, with his hands and legs being tied. It seemed he had been abducted by the stranger. The flickering fire stirred, waking up the sleeping boy. His body felt heavy with tiredness as he struggled to shake off the deep slumber. With a hazy vision and drowsiness lingering, he tried to make sense of the situation and his surroundings.
Sehoon noticed a stranger, rummaging his bag and tossing aside his stuff that he was carrying along all this time. Before he could even act, he realized that his hands and legs have been tied, rendering him unable to move. He tried to break free of those binds with his mere strength but failed as those binds were casted with some magic. Sehoon looked around helplessly as he searches for his sword.
“Good Lord, finally you woke up... took you long enough,” said the stranger, his eyes holding the sharp glint of a thief as he observed the struggling figure. Sehoon met his gaze, a mix of confusion and wariness evident in his expression. “Who are you, and why have you captured me?” he demanded.
The stranger’s brow furrowed in a mixture of surprise and annoyance. “What do you mean by ‘captured you’? I saved your life,” he retorted defensively.
Sehoon, with a calm demeanour, extended his bound hands and gestured towards the restraints encircling his wrists and legs. “What do you have to say about this, then?” he questioned, his voice tinged with scepticism.
The stranger took a few steps back, a wry smile on his lips. “Oh, that’s just a precaution, my friend,” he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “Can’t be too careful these days. You might have some murderous tendencies I’m unaware of.” Sehoon furrowed his brows, genuine confusion flickering across his face. “Kill you? Why would I want to do that?” he asked, his voice tinged with incredulity. “I don’t even know who you are.”
“I witnessed your transformation into that Demonic Beast, unleashing destruction that sent shockwaves... It was truly terrifying,” the stranger struggled to contain their words, before adding with a shiver, “Absolutely spine-chilling.”
Sehoon gazed at him with a hint of judgment in his eyes, assessing the stranger before him, who seemed to be of a similar age. With a tinge of melancholy in his voice, Sehoon confessed, “I’m not sure what came over me. It felt like something else was in control, like I was lost in a deep sleep.” The mysterious boy let out a heavy sigh, revealing, “You’ve been unconscious for the past five days, buddy. I’ve been lugging you around this whole time.” Sehoon’s cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and gratitude for the stranger’s help. As the binds were loosened, Sehoon’s mind raced, still grappling with the events that had unfolded. Meanwhile, the enigmatic stranger seemed lost in his own thoughts, his actions shrouded in mystery.
“Here you go,” he handed Sehoon a bottle of water, urging him to hydrate. Sehoon accepted with a nod of thanks, noting that despite the boy’s somewhat childish demeanour, he didn’t seem like a bad guy. As he drank, Sehoon’s sharp gaze bore into the boy, who felt a shiver run down his spine as if his soul was being scrutinized. Finally, Sehoon broke the silence with a question, “So, can you fill me in on everything that happened while I was out cold?” The boy let out a sigh of relief, he has been holding his breath when Sehoon stared at him.
“Call me Kai,” the stranger declared, smirking.
“Kai!?” Sehoon repeated, his curiosity piqued.
Kai continued with unwavering excitement, his words tumbling out in a rush. “So, just a few days ago, I was on this super important mission, you know? Like, top secret stuff. Anyway, I was passing by the site where I found you, totally on a different mission, like, retrieving this insanely dangerous object. And then, bam! I sense this crazy unbalanced force, right? And guess what? It was coming from you!” Sehoon’s expression remained unchanged, but his curiosity was definitely piqued.
“I’m, like, used my abilities to peek into the fort where you were, you know, just to check things out. But, man, your aura was like a brick wall, totally blocking my vision. And then, kaboom! The fort just explodes! Right in front of my eyes!” Kai paused, taking a dramatic breath, clearly reliving the moment. “I rushed over there to see what was going on, and there you were, lying all unconscious under a mountain of debris. You owe me big time, dude! I totally saved your life from that heavy concrete avalanche! Its fine you don’t need to thank me it’s not like I did something hero-”
Sehoon instantly asked, “What about that lady?”
“Huh!? Which lady?” Kai questioned, perplexed. Sehoon looked towards Kai with grief, still unsure about what had happened to Artemis. “Man, I only found you half dead there. What were you doing with a lady.... who wasn’t even there!?” Kai asked, seeking clarification.
“Never mind,” Sehoon muttered, averting his gaze. Kai’s expression hardened, his features masking his emotions. “Forget it! You must be starving. Let’s grab a bite,” Kai suggested, taking out some meal from his stacks. Sehoon accepted the bread Kai offered, and they settled down to eat in silence, their thoughts drifting in unspoken currents between them.
“Thank you for saving me...” Sehoon uttered in a low voice.
Kai glanced at him and, after a brief pause, couldn’t help but flash a smug grin. Sehoon caught the expression and irritably retorted, “Wipe that smug look off your face.” Kai just chuckled in response, and they continued their banter as they journeyed towards their destination. Kai was fully immersed in his playful antics, while Sehoon struggled to match his energy. Despite their differences from ordinary humans, they found joy in each other’s company, relishing in their unaware bond as they move on with their adventure together.
The night hung quietly over the forest as Sehoon and Kai set up camp. Sehoon noticed Kai perched on a tree trunk, his gaze fixed on the ocean of stars above, each one twinkling like a distant dream. He joined Kai for a moment, then decided to lie back on the soft forest floor, feeling the magic of the night wrap around them like a comforting blanket.
“Ha Se-woo!?,” Kai called, drawing Sehoon’s attention. Sehoon, without a word, glanced up at him. “Just curious, what were you doing there?” Kai inquired. Sehoon let out a heavy sigh and launched into the tale of his journey to Wizard Land. He recounted being sent on a mission to vanquish a devil, a task he likely hadn’t succeeded in. Kai, taken aback, interjected, “Um, Sehoon, Wizard Land vanished ages ago. No one knows its whereabouts.” Sehoon continued, undeterred, “I may not know where fate will take me, but I’ll fulfil the promise I made.” Kai gazed down at Sehoon, concern evident in his eyes, as the uncertain traveller adjusted his sleeping position.
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“Hey! Sehoon,” Kai proposed, extending an invitation. “Why don’t you accompany me on my mission?” Sehoon sighed inwardly before responding, “I don’t plan on changing my plans.” His decision was firm, his path set yet uncertain. However, Kai couldn’t shake the feeling that Sehoon was merely deceiving himself. As Sehoon stared at his hands, grappling with his inner turmoil, Kai sensed the weight of uncertainty pressing down on him, a burden of thoughts too heavy to bear alone.
Kai settled himself comfortably on the sturdy branch, gazing up at the vast expanse of the night sky. Its beauty enveloped him, casting a spell that lulled him into a peaceful slumber.
The next morning, Kai stirred awake, his vision blurry from sleep, only to find himself hanging upside down from a branch. As he slowly blinked his eyes open, he noticed Sehoon packing up nearby, the glint of a sword catching his eye. Startled, Kai shifted, suddenly aware of his precarious position, and promptly tumbled to the ground with a yelp, his head spinning as he saw stars from the impact of the fall.
Sehoon glanced back at the fallen figure, unimpressed, as Kai sat on the ground, nursing his throbbing head. “Ouch!! It hurts,” Kai exclaimed, his tone a mix of pain and indignation.
Ignoring Kai’s complaint, Sehoon continued to organize his belongings. Kai shot him an accusatory look, his expression sour. “How rude! You didn’t even help me stand up,” he grumbled.
Sehoon finally turned to face him, his demeanour unapologetic. “It’s your own fault for choosing such a precarious sleeping spot. It was obvious you could fall from there.”
With a resigned sigh, Kai picked himself up, brushing off dirt and leaves. “You’re leaving already?” he asked, a hint of disappointment in his voice.
Sehoon stated he didn’t want to waste any more time and began scouring for links to The Wizard Land. As he walked with determination, Kai intercepted him, grasping his hands to halt his progress. Sehoon turned, ready to rebuff him, but before he could speak, Kai interjected, “If you’re set on finding that place, then come with me. Together.... I mean, I can help you uncover the paths leading to the Wizard Land.” Sehoon, intrigued yet cautious, queried, “How exactly do you propose we do that?”
Kai’s voice echoed with a seriousness that sent shivers down Sehoon’s spine. “The items I was tasked to retrieve is no ordinary relic—it’s like an ingredient for the sacred artifact from Wizard Land, a Chalice steeped in untold mysteries known only to the Wizard King himself,” he divulged. Sehoon’s eyes widened in astonishment, instantly bracing himself to accompany Kai on this daring quest. “I hope you’re not leading me astray,” Sehoon warned, his tone laced with a hint of menace, “or else you’ll find yourself in the grips of a nightmare you couldn’t imagine.”
Kai chuckled, brushing off Sehoon’s threat with confidence. “Come now, my friend,” he replied, his demeanor unwavering, “I’ve been intrigued by your tales from the moment we met, and I assure you, there’s no falsehood in my words. But together, we can achieve what neither of us could alone. You aid me in securing the items required for that Chalice, and I’ll guide you to the elusive Wizard Land.” With a cheerful smile, Kai extended his hand in a gesture of partnership, his gaze fixed on the horizon.
Sehoon hesitated, his gaze flickering between Kai’s outstretched hand and his earnest expression. After a moment of contemplation, he firmly grasped Kai’s hand, sealing their pact with a shake. “Alright, it’s a deal,” Sehoon agreed, determination gleaming in his eyes. Kai’s jubilant shout rang through the air as he leaped up, inadvertently colliding with the tree branch he fell from—a moment of clumsy enthusiasm between both.
“Hitting his head once more, he crumpled to the ground, eyes rolling as stars danced around his face. Sehoon gazed down at him, a mixture of exasperation and concern etched on his features. “You are such an idiot,” he muttered under his breath, resigned to the inevitable trouble that would now tag along with him.”
In the dimly lit chamber, amidst the velvety shadows, a mysterious object beckoned with its radiant allure. Gleaming with the luster of pure gold and adorned with sparkling gems that seemed to dance in the faint light, it exuded an air of enchantment and whispered promises of boundless wishes fulfilled.
This object, this chalice of destiny, held within it the very essence of magic itself. Yet, it was not merely a vessel of wonder and hope; it was also a harbinger of peril, a coveted prize sought by the forces of darkness for their nefarious desires.
Ruby Chauhan, her eyes reflecting both determination and apprehension, stood guard over the chalice, a solemn vow etched upon her lips. “Fear not,” she declared, her voice resolute yet tinged with a hint of urgency, “I shall safeguard this precious artifact until the day of the festival. But Fujin, you must hasten to gather the remaining essentials that could awaken its dormant power before the forces of darkness lay claim to it.”
With fate hanging in the balance, she looks at the chalice, “I never thought this chalice would be that dangerous.”
“Is this the place where that thing is?” Sehoon inquired, his gaze fixed on the grand Kingdom in the distance, bathed in the gentle glow of the sun. Kai, with a hint of pride, responded, “That’s the Kingdom of Dymat, renowned for its textile and apparel industry. You’ll find people donning exquisite outfits and...” Sehoon’s stoic expression halted Kai mid-sentence, his voice quivering in apprehension. “Just answer my question,” Sehoon demanded, his tone tinged with intimidation.
In a timid, almost feline whisper, Kai replied, “N... No.” Sehoon’s annoyance was palpable as he pressed further, “Then why are we going there?”
To answer, Kai gestured towards his torn outfit and remarked, “Judging by your attire, it seems you’re due for some fresh threads.” Sehoon glanced down, realizing the extent of the damage to his clothing from the earlier skirmish at the fort. “Oh... but I don’t have the funds for a whole new change of clothes,” he admitted, feeling a pang of embarrassment.
Kai reassured him with a grin, “Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.”
“But—” Sehoon began to protest.
Ignoring Sehoon’s protest, Kai grabbed his arm and propelled him towards the bustling streets of the kingdom, exclaiming, “Let’s goooo!”
Sehoon glanced at him, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he observed Kai’s overflowing happiness. It could very well be the first genuine smile to grace Sehoon’s face since that unfaithful incident.
“I only met him yesterday, yet he feels so unlike anyone else I’ve known. For years, I’ve been confined to the mansion, only venturing out with Father. My interactions were limited to the servants and my training. So why is he being so kind to me, a stranger? Is it because he sees me as useful? Is he just using me? But there’s a warmth in my heart, unfamiliar yet comforting. Could this be what it feels like to have a friend? Ah, I’m overthinking again. We’ve simply struck a deal, nothing more. We’re just two strangers lending each other a hand. Sehoon, focus on your goal, on finding that person waiting for you. I hope you’re out there, waiting for me too. Guide me, Father,” Sehoon murmured, his gaze drifting upward as a flock of birds soared across the sky, the sun casting a warm glow on his face.
“Ah-choo!” The boy sneezed, setting down his cup of tea. A concerned Borion nearby asked, “Are you alright, Your Majesty?” The boy waved it off, replying, “How many times do I have to tell you not to address me like that? It’s nothing, just someone probably thinking about me. I can sense it but I wonder who?” Suddenly, a chill wind swept through the garden surrounding the towering castle, its floral beauty in full bloom. A female Borion, clad in armour as she tended to the flowers, glanced at the pair sipping tea, sensing an impending event of great significance—one that might not bode well for all.
Kai was captivated by the picturesque view of the quaint houses and bustling shops in the kingdom. Sehoon, on the other hand, simply surveyed the streets and the people milling about. Despite the elegant attire of the locals, Sehoon stood out with his ragged and torn clothes, attracting curious glances from passer-by. Unperturbed by the attention, Sehoon continued to stroll alongside Kai, who couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sympathy for his friend.
“Look over there,” Kai exclaimed, pointing towards a clothing store nestled near a grand fountain at the heart of the bustling street. Surrounding the fountain were an array of shops and restaurants, each exuding its own charm. Towering above them all was a majestic church adorned with gothic inscriptions and a statue depicting a mysterious figure—a solitary boy with an air of judgement and darkness about him.
They stepped into the store, Sehoon looking bewildered amidst the sea of clothes while Kai’s eyes sparkled at the sight of crop shirts and bandanas. Unable to contain his excitement, Kai insisted on grabbing a pair for himself too. Sehoon, feeling lost in the fashion world, stood there clueless. Kai, with a dramatic sigh, exclaimed, “Seriously? Okay, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Let’s find something for you first.” Leading Sehoon to the dressing room, Kai made it his mission to help his friend decide on an outfit.
As Sehoon tried on various shirts and apparel, nothing seemed to resonate with his simple taste. Kai, with a mix of frustration and amusement, teased, “Everything looks amazing on you; you just lack a bit of fashion sense.” Just then, the shopkeeper approached, offering assistance. Politely declining, Kai assured him they were fine.
After Sehoon’s unsuccessful attempts, Kai returned the clothes to their racks. The shopkeeper, appearing slightly agitated, watched from a distance until he noticed something alarming—a symbol etched on Sehoon’s back as he took off his shirt, a three-faced hound. Fear gripped the shopkeeper as he recoiled, sweat beading on his forehead. Sehoon, unaware, caught a glimpse of the terrified shopkeeper’s reaction in the mirror, leaving him bewildered. As the shopkeeper caught Sehoon’s gaze, a shiver ran down his spine, and he bolted from the scene as if he’d just encountered a specter.
Suddenly, Kai reappeared with a blue jacket for Sehoon, but Sehoon, feeling drained from the ordeal, declined, “Just buy it; I’ll wear it later. I’m tired of this.” Kai, ever the supportive friend, insisted, “Yes, sir! It’ll look really cool on you. I also snagged a pair of crop shirts for both of us, and this—"
Sehoon abruptly interrupted him, his voice tinged with urgency. “We should leave now. Grab what you want; I’ve got a bad feeling about this place.” Kai nodded in agreement, taken aback by Sehoon’s unease, and they headed towards the counter to settle the bill. However, they were met with an eerie sight – no staff, no customers, just an empty shop. Sehoon’s discomfort grew, urging Kai to leave, but Kai hesitated, pointing out that they hadn’t paid for Sehoon’s new clothes yet. Sehoon sighed, frustration evident. “Can’t you see something’s not, right? The shopkeeper was acting weird, and now he’s vanished.” Suddenly, Kai’s eyes widened in realization, “Did that shopkeeper saw the crest on Sehoon’s back while he was trying on the clothes?” Kai’s mind raced with worry. “We’re in deep trouble if they find out Sehoon is one of the Sinners,” he thought, his heart pounding with fear. But before he could speak, a sense of foreboding swept over them, signalling danger lurking just beyond the shop’s walls.
Kai was about to utter a word, but Sehoon seized his hand, pulling him to the exit, flung open the door, bolting outside. Kai attempted to halt Sehoon’s rush, pleading, “Sehoon, wait! Don’t-”
His words were cut short as they beheld the scene before them. Kai’s eyes widened in disbelief, while Sehoon’s gaze turned deadly, a silent warning to whatever dared to confront them.
A tense silence enveloped the scene, awaiting an explanation for what had transpired. What had they witnessed there? A peculiar, subtle breeze stirred as the church bell chimed.