Novels2Search
Night Before the Clypse
The Boy (Part 1)

The Boy (Part 1)

~The Boy - Part 1 ~

"I get that we're not supposed to draw too much attention but..." Noise trails off as he turns his head from side to side to stare at the group. Or more specifically, their clothing. "Don't you think we stick out too much?"

While it was standard for them to visit a newly discovered world, everyone, excluding Xavier, wore hooded ponchos. Although they were designed differently, most of them couldn't deny they did somewhat stick out when crowded together. Noise tried to sneak his jacket with him so he can wear it later, but it was switched out without his knowledge. And he has a feeling on who it was that did it. One thing's for sure, they're not going to receive any pillow talk any time soon.

Percy sighs, "We don't have a choice in this matter. Since losing communication with the last team, Beatrix believes this is the best course of action." He tugs at the neckline of his white poncho. "But I must admit, wearing this and a gorget was not the best decision."

Stunned, Sound wrote, 'You're also wearing Arm Armor and Pauldrons, yet THAT's what's making you uncomfortable?'

"We're getting advise... from the shut-in tech," Noise deadpanned. "I can see why we lost contact. Those poor suckers- I mean, comrades," he corrects himself after receiving a look from Percy. He shakes his head then shrugs. "Shouldn't have had their last meal in the mess hall. What a way to go."

'Can we go already?' Sound holds up his notebook again, this time in between the two. He flips to the next page and wrote, 'If you haven't noticed, we're standing in the middle of the road in a fairly populated city.'

He wasn't wrong. The group stood at what they think was the center of a bustling city. It was charmingly quaint, especially with how the buildings were constructed and the presence of gas-lit street lamps. When the group first laid eyes on the residents of the unknown world, they wondered if there was some sort of event going on for all of them to adorn such formal-looking attire.

Percy almost thought they entered a world with an era similar to his own, but there were many things that were far too many things that were considered advanced for his time. And the others started to notice this as well. The very first was the presence of vehicles, but unlike the ones they encountered in seperate (slightly more advanced) worlds, the ones they saw drove by had very questionable designs. For starters, the engine seemed more like one you fine on a steam locomotive.

The wheels appeared similar to the ones found on Rei's motorcycle, and what's most bizarre is that the body of the car had too many working cogwheels and tubes pumping out some clear white smoke. It was completely made of metal. Just looking at the lack of cushion on the carseats was enough to make Ayane's butt and tail ache. Then there were several other things that went by which made them further question what was going on.

There were hot air balloons that flew over at a surprisingly fast pace. Though the group were no longer as impressed when they realized they were simply ships with one or two giant hot hair balloons attached and tied down by a web of thick ropes. Rather than standing around and waiting for something else to move by or fly into view, they decided to walk around a bit to get a better perspective of the new land. Ayane had to stick to her brother closer than usual to hide her tail.

Although it was concealed underneath her poncho and skirt, her nervousness caused her tail to jerk or twitch every few seconds. And the explosive sounds emitted from several passing cars didn't help. Ayane kept a hand on her twin's arm as she tugged at her hood when she felt her ear were about to slip out.

Concerned over her well-being, Rei asks Sound, "You sure it was a good idea to bring her?"

Two years after their first mission, the girl's condition worsened. It's become far more difficult to conceal her other physical fox-like traits. Beatrix's inventions could no longer help conceal her tail. Her eyes, although still a shade of gold like every other Nors, now had thin vertical pupils. Thankfully, there were no signs of whiskers growing anytime soon. The reason she's still able to manage most of her human form is due to help of a Nors she recruited not too long ago.

Sound was about to write something but paused, thinking carefully on what to write before jotting down his thoughts. He holds up his notebook again. This time, it read, 'She's fine. I'm sure that bastard wolf will help her once we find him and the others.'

"Speaking of," Xavier spoke up in a slightly childish voice. He walks closer with his arms casually placed behind his head. "Who exactly got lost in this world?" He whistles when he saw someone walk by with a metallic arm. "Because I wouldn't mind walking around a little bit longer."

Rei rolls her eyes. "Stop it, Xavier. Nobody's paying attention so you can drop the act."

"Oh thank God..." Xavier said, this time with a slightly lower voice. His demeanor changes as he straightens his posture. "I swear, I thought I was going to gag if I didn't stop."

"Believe me, I was starting to believe you were finally becoming delusional..." Percy grumbles, narrowing his eyes at the seemingly younger boy.

Compared to the four of them, Xavier was physically by far the youngest. However, he was also the mentally oldest. Due to a mishap with the Ceremony, Xavier came out far too early and had only slightly grown. He tried to inquire to undergo it for a second time but was told that such a reckless attempt would inadvertently result in his early retirement. For this, he's stuck with the appearance of a 12-year-old boy. Another downside was his hair, something that no one could provide a proper explanation.

No longer was it the expected hair color of a Cursed Blood. The incomplete process had completely turned his once ashen colored hair to pure white. While his mentality had matured to compensate for his lack of physical growth, he is often referred to an old man because of that.

"Back to what we were discussing earlier," Percy began. "We need to decide on our next course of action. Standing around won't do is any good, it'll only get us to attract more unwanted attention."

Xavier crosses his arms and nods. "You're right. We need to cover some ground, but splitting up isn't ideal, especially with what little info we were provided."

"We could always use you as bait," Noise said while fighting back a yawn. "It certainly helped us find Succu."

"No," Percy bit out. "We are NOT going to do that again. Gods knows how many pedophiles we've had to protect him from last time..."

"Wait, what?" Xavier looks up at the two as they both avert their eyes away from him.

As the boys were discussing their next course of action, Ayane and Rei had been keeping a watchful eye of their surroundings. With her enhanced hearing, Ayane had closed her eyes to focus and listen for any approaching footsteps. As for Rei, she secretly searched for any suspicious on-lookers. While this world may appear peaceful, from their past experience, looks can be deceiving. There is always a price for peace; a truth they've come to learn and experience many times, over and over again.

They rarely encounter individuals who do it for good intentions; who are willing to carry on the guilt while there to be a future for later generations, blissfully unaware of the price that was paid for the sake of their future. Then there are those who do it out of greed and power. That was something Percy himself personally experienced when he was younger, long before Rei saved and took him away to their current home.

That's why whenever they encounter a peaceful world, such as the one they're currently visiting, he held little to no expectations on there being any genuity to its peace. That way, when they discover the truth, Percy wouldn't have to feel (once again) disappointed at humanity. Or at least, towards a race that shares some similarities to them. Once they came up with a proper plan; they inevitably chose to split into pairs of three. That way there is a decreased chance they'll get kidnapped.

The groupings were expected; first group will consist of Sound, Noise and Ayane; the second will be Percy, Rei and Xavier. It wasn't so there was one girl in both groups. It was to avoid any altercations. Although they are friends, if paired for too long with someone with an incompatible personality, they'd instantly clash with each other. And considering the fact the person to start it is usually Noise, the only one who can tolerate him is Sound.

Percy did consider having Noise or Sound in his group instead of Rei, but then he also took Xavier and his (or lack of) sanity into consideration. While the most mentally mature of the group, his tolerance level has lowered substantially since they established their team, Mythral. They can still work together properly as a team, and they can hold proper conversations. It's just the boys' antics can... Well, from Percy's perspective, he doubts anyone that's left alone with either of them will end up walking out alive.

The plan was simple; search for any physical evidence to confirm the missing group's presence in this world, and, if possible, question the locals if they've seen at least one of them. However, they have limit their interactions. For them to suddenly lose contact the way they did, Percy and the others cannot allow too many to know they were looking for them. If word spreads, the chances of finding them would become slim.

Percy doesn't want to assume the worst this early, but he needs to prepare himself just in case it does turn out that way. Just one look at their determined faces before they went their seperate way was enough to tell Percy he was the only one that wasn't so optimistic about what they'll find. Then again, it is far better than giving up right off the bat.

With the plan in mind, the two groups split up. It wasn't that hard to lose sight of them. With the number of strange machinery and the people controlling them walking around, it was a surprise one hadn't accidentally drifted off elsewhere. The technology, though still considered primitive due to the heavy reliance on steam, was impressive to say the least.

Even those with mechanical prostheses was something that would cause anyone, even a mechanic, to stop and marvel at the craftsmanship. Too bad for them, their team isn't assigned for scouting to look deeper into such things. Making sure to stick close a possible, the one to stay in between the two and Percy was Xavier, who hadn't one thought of his current position until he heard a passing comment.

"My, what a lovely family," a passing elderly woman innocently comments, unknowingly earning a middle finger from Xavier.

"She better not be referring to me as a child..." the snowy-haired boy grumbles as he continues to glare at the back of the elder's head.

"Technically, you are," Rei points out. She immediately adds after receiving a dirty look from Xavier, "To them, at least. This and every other world works differently, remember?"

He sighs. "Well, it's best it remains that way. I'd rather not see another poor soul experience a similar fate as mine. Being stunted with such a short stature is something I wouldn't wish upon anyone; even to my own enemies."

"Speaking of your stature... I believe we can take advantage of it," Percy said, grinning as he stroked his chin.

"Um... I don't like what you're implying." Xavier steps back as he looks up at him with wary eyes.

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In the farther end of the city, Sound had guided the two to the last place both wanted to be. The food market. There were a variety of stalls as far as the eye can see. From where they stood, it appeared as if there were more people entering than exiting the longer they stared. Noise didn't even have to see under his mask to know what expression the dark haired boy was wearing.

If they weren't confused about the culture and religion of this world before, they certainly were now. There were food stalls that nearly covered the entire street, overlapping much of the walkways on both sides. Unlike the dull colors of the surrounding buildings, the stalls were popping with color. Aside from the excessive amount of smoke from all the cooking, it was still inviting to whoever laid eyes upon it. In Sound's case, it was enticing enough to want him experiment with his stomach again.

"Thinking with your stomach... Smooth," Noise said sarcastically.

Soun draps his arm around Noise's shoulder before handing him a note. 'Think of this as a date.'

"With your sister," Noise deadpans. "That's the worst kind of date. Ever."

'C'mon, it's not like you don't mind.'

Noise rolls his eyes. "Of course I mind. This is your sis we're talking about. If you're not doing anything chaotic, then she will. It's like you two have this unknown quota you have to fulfill every week." Then he notices something off about the girl. "Hasn't she been oddly quiet?"

Usually by now, there'd hear someone scream that they lost something and she'd panicked then realize, once again, she accidentally stole something. Noise stopped questioning how something like that can be considered a habit, especially when he compared the girl to her void for a brother. Rather than wondering around, she was strangely behaved and made sure to stick close to them as possible despite being in the lead. But for Sound, he understood why she was acting this way.

He secretly holds his notebook in front of Noise. 'She's jusr worried about Ulric.'

The red head scrunched up his face upon reading the name. "Oh... Him."

Many already know that Noise wasn't the most sociable person in their group, but he tolerated others in and outside of it. And in return, they tolerate his chronic laziness. Sort of. It was only Ulric he couldn't stand, and the feeling was mutual. While he and Xavier took some time to respect one another and learn to tolerate their unchangeable differences, him and the wolf could never find some form of common ground. No matter how hard they tried, it would leave both feeling disgruntled afterwards.

Though Sound wasn't any better, but that's because it's sibling related.

Noise thought of just leaving the girl be, then he saw the tip of her tail being partially exposed from the bottom of her skirt. He was going to tell Sound to fix it for her since he's the sibling, but then he saw it was slowly moving. He thought it was just moving around since she's walking. Then he saw there was slightly movement from underneath her hood. His facpalms as he stares at the girl's head in annoyance.

"Hey, Ayane!" Noise shouts. Ayane's shoulders jolt before partially turning to face them, drool dripping at the corner of her mouth. The boy sighs and facepalms. "If you're hungry, say so! Geez... I'm cutting my precious sleep hours just to babysit you..."

Sound wrote while leaning against the somewhat smaller boy, 'Hey, at least it's keeping her mind off Ulric.'

"I'm sorry!" She turn around and runs up to them, completely flustered with her behavior. "It's just the smell was so strong that my instincts kicked in."

"Just PLEASE keep it together until we find them," said Noise. He yawns again and stretches his arms above his head. "If not, I'm gonna have your brother carry me around again."

She doesn't exactly see why that's an issue. Since they brought Noise back, the boys have been have been stuck together like glue. Though Noise certainly changed from how she remembered him, she was glad their relationship hadn't. It's just seeing Sound carrying Noise around whenever the lattter passes out took some time to get used to.

While the two were arguing, Sound noticed something very peculiar about the market. He had noticed how very little people came in and out of the market, but what he found most peculiar were the children. Earlier, he saw parents would bring their child, appearing somewhat tired of their antics, but after several minutes had passed, they would step out, appearing completely refreshed. Without their child.

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"Once this is over-" Xavier's left eye twitches as he growls, "I'll make you pay what you've done to me in blood, Perseus Vlahos."

Percy turns his head away and struggles to contain his laughter. Enraged, he was about to kick Percy's shin but stops when a pair of women walks past them, whispering to one another as they stare at the three with curious eyes.

Rei calmly responds, "Sorry Xavier, but bear with it for just a little longer."

As amusing as it was to have the boy in the middle and hold hands with them like a child would, there was a very good reason for placing him in this position. While Percy doesn't know if the boy noticed, but he know Rei hasn't, and he prefers to keep it that way. Until they figure out what's going on with this world. Since they split from the other three, he's noticed one thing peculiar about the people. And that's the lack of children.

At first, Percy thought he was simply being paranoid and was assuming things for the worse, as usual. However, Xavier had noticed it as well. He spotted several baby strollers and some strollers, but that was about it. He couldn't find anyone that was phyisically around the same age as him. They can understand if it were a school day, but it was almost noon, and there were far too many out and about for there not to be at least one child in sight. If it's related to the disappearance of the last group, then, once they reunite with the others, they'll have to leave immediately.

Though Percy knows Xavier will ask to be compensated at a later date, he was grateful kept quiet about it. The last thing either of them want is for Rei to react. As much as Percy loves the brunette for her compassion, it's that said compassion which got them into various skirmishes. Out of all the Cursed Bloods, her curse is the most problamatic to deal with.

"Rei," he began, gaining her full attention. He forces a smile as he asks, "You've got my back, right?"

"Always." She narrows her eyes and reaches to touch his shoulder. "Is there something you're not telling me?"

"No..." He hesitantly answers. When she cocked a brow, Percy changed his tone, "No, I'm not hiding anything." She could still see it in his eyes. Then, to her surprise, he said, "Because I'm going to tell you later. Like I always tell you, there's always a time and place for everything."

Xavier's his face contort when he felt the air around the couple change. Since he was smack in the middle of this, he practically had to pull himself away before they did anything else he found unsightly. While he doesn't childishly view it as disgusting, Xavier just doesn't like being this close to public displays of affection. After gaining some breathing distance between him and the couple, he looks over his shoulder and slumps when he saw their expressions as they maintained eye contact.

'Well... least we've successfully passed ourselves off as a happy family,' he thought. Alhough, he'd prefer it if they don't forget the mission. Xavier coughs then spoke up, "As much as I want to leave you both to plan your wedding, I think we should remember we have friends and acquaintances to find."

Both turn away from each other, with Rei fidgeting with the bottom of her cloak while Percy's ears had flushed into a slight shade of pink. This prompted Xavier to roll his eyes.

"Right, where were we?" said Percy..

"We were going to go around and pretend we're a happy family of three."

"Ah, right. You're supposed to be our child."

"I swear to Belial, if you dare tell anyone about this..." Xavier growls, his expression darkening.

Rei cuts in before things get heated, "Okay, can either of you tell me WHY the midget old man eagerly agreed to be our kid." The brunette narrows her eyes and crosses her arms. "And that usually takes a hefty bribe or something from Sound's long list of blackmails on Xavier to go with whatever plan you've cooked up."

"Look- Wait, Sound has a list of what?"

Before she could say anything, there were several sirens going off in the distance. All three whip their heads around to see what appeared to be three pillars of black smoke; one being ahead of the other two as it appraches rapidly starts to move to their general direction. People around them began to panic and moved out of the way, allowing the three to get a perfect view of what's going on. The sounds of violently roaring engines soon overpowered the sea of panicked screams as a vehicle rapidly drew closer.

"Rei!" Percy shouts when he saw the vehicle was swerving to her direction.

Rei jumps back in time before the steam engine vehicle could hit her. Even so, Percy grabbed and protectively held her in his arms as the other two vehicles drove past them. He knows nothing like an incoming transportation can harm her, but he can't help himself. It's never easy to lost another directly in the line of danger right before him. Not when he is able to do something to prevent their potential premature demise.

As Percy protectively held Rei close to him, Xavier watched in awe as the vehicle chase continued until the three disappeared from sight around the corner of a tall building. All that was left is the trail of dark smoke that rose into the already brown sky. If he was being perfectly honest, Xavier can't tell what the approximate period of time it was. There was so much smog in the air that it made the Great Smog in his verious of London feel less polluted. Well, somewhat.

Once the chaos had passed, the people surprisingly acted as if nothing had happened. This stunned the three in just how instant the residents were to go about their business. Neither knew how to respond to this. They had no right to judge, but it was still odd. Considering the difference in lifestyles; they can only assume this is a common occurence.

Still, something bothered Xavier about the nature of the incident. Why were the police after the driver? He doesn't know if it's pure luck on the driver's part, but from what little he saw, there wasn't a hint of blood on the front or on the pipes protuding from its sides. At least it scratched out the possibility that it was a hit and run.

He was intrigued at how it appeared slightly more advanced and refined than the other models of transportation they've seen. Though it certainly didn't stop it from producing an excessive amount of smoke. Either that, or it was purposely designed that was to act as a sort of smoke screen for the driver. Whoever's driving, they clearly didn't have the intention to kill anyone from how careful the driver was in making sure not to hit anyone during their escape.

"You both alright?" Percy asks.

"More or less. How about you two-" The boy couldn't finish as he was interrupted by a shrill, ear-piercing scream not too far away. "Now what...?" Xavier grumbles.

A woman runs past Xavier then immediately approaches the couple.

Panic laced her voice as she asks the two, "Have you seen a little boy? Around your son's age?"

It came to a surprise to Rei that they had been able to pass off as two young adults with a son. As Percy tried to calm the woman so she could properly explain herself, Rei moved a little so that he wasn't hugging her anymore, but still was close enough for their hands to touch. Seeing this, Xavier averted his eyes before he could dare himself to look at Rei.

It wasn't that he didn't want to deal with her personal issues. Like him, others find her burdens unresolveable. They can relate to the fears that comes with her curse, but they cannot think of anything that could put her mind at ease. All Xavier can do for now is leave her be. Just as Rei was about to move to check on their 'son', she was stunned to feel a familiar metallic gloved hand grab her. While trying to concentrate on the ground, she was bug-eyed at the sudden physical contact.

When she tried to move her hand away, Percy tightens his grip, refusing to let her move any further from his side. Rei sends him a quizzical look.

Ignoring her stares, Percy asks the woman, "And you didn't tell the police of your son's disappearance?"

"I did!" she cried. Realizing she had raised her voice at the wrong person, she retracts and clasps her hands close to her chest. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to raise my voice."

"It's fine. Your reaction is completely understandable. Now, take a deep breath and recall what happened."

"Yes... But, it'll be a bit difficult to explain."

Looking around to see if anyone was watching them, the woman took a step closer and began to unbutton the top of her dress shirt. Realizing what was going on, Xavier and Rei moved so that they were shielded as much as possible from prying eyes. Well, Rei was able to. Xavier was barely at Percy's chest level to block anything of importance.

"I thank my beloved creator for that..." he grumbles to himself as he glares up at the cloudy sky.

Partally parting her shirt, the woman reveals a silver tattoo on her upper chest. Embedded onto her skin was the symbol of an upside pair of wings; the identification symbol of an Outlander, or Traveller as most prefer to call them.

"I see you travel a lot," Percy casually comments. He lifts his arm above waist level to partially pulls up his sleeve, revealing his own tattoo. "We're also passing through the city."

The woman's eyes lit up, elated to have found someone that similar.

"Thank the gods...! I wasn't sure-"

Xavier raises a hand to interrupt their conversation. "Listen, this isn't the place to discuss this."

"Right," the girl answers, slightly taken aback by the boy's mature demeanor. She looks around then whispers, "Follow me..."

Without another word, Percy and Rei stepped aside as the woman walks past the two, avoiding as much eyes contact as possible. After waiting for a few minutes to provide some distance, Percy looks around then tugs Rei's hand before silently follwing after the woman. Placing his hands behind his head, Xavier follows after them. While it's not necessarily a good idea to be in the back, he wants to bait any potential kidnapper to nab him.

It's not that he can't take care of himself (which he can), he just found it annoying and tedious at how often he's the target for almost everything. Kidnapping, assassination, you name it. And honestly, he's gotten so used to it that he has little to no expectations in encountering a challenge. The only time he doesn't want to act as the bait is when it's planned as a group, because every time it is, it goes downhill. And it always does.

Since they're walking to meet with a Traveler in a more secluded spot, Xavier thought this was the perfect opportunity to go fishing. A Traveler can't provide them the answers related to the whereabouts of the other team, but a criminal that lives here is close enough. If anyone was watching them, or more specifically Xavier, then he knows they'll be stupid enough to think the 'parents' lowered their guard and left behind their 'defenselesss child'. And he knows there are kidnappers.

The four of them already stick out like a sorethumb. Three of them are wearing ponchos while almost appeared as if she was from a different era. Xavier was pretty sure at this point this world that the era of this world was still not open to the idea of women wearing pants.

"I'm a little surprised," Xavier said.

"About what?" Persy asks, confused at the off-hand comment.

Rei giggles then playfully chimes in, "Oh you know, about how you didn't get flustered at the sight of a woman's bossom."

His ears turned red as he snaps his head in another direction. "Don't use my words against me! Not every situation recquires me to uphold the Knight's Code. And in this case, I cannot talk nor act as a knight just yet. Besides, it is not my place to judge where one chooses to place their mark."

"Mmmm... True, but," Rei pauses glances over at Xavier, who appeared to be holding back his own laughter. She continues, "That didn't stop you from fainting in front of the only two people that would use what happened to you as blackmail."

"Please don't remind me," Percy said with an exasperated sigh. "The last thing I want is to remember of my early days as a Nors. You can't expect one to be used to such foreign conditions after one mission."

"Not my fault I happened to be in the area," Xavier smirked.

After several minutes of walking, they stopped for a moment when the woman enters a shop. There was a small wooden sign hanging above the entrance. It read; Time Hollow Cafe. Percy gives Rei and look, who nods, understanding his silent thoughts. But when he was about to look over his shoulder and check on Xavier, to his sutprise, found he was missing. All that was left was his black and purple arm warmer.

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Xavier had to admit; he was impressed. Not many could sneak up behind him without him sensing their presence. Xavier knows it's wrong to compliment his kidnappers, since it was bashed into him that such acts are wrong no matter the reason, but at least he got some idea on the type of people they're going to deal with laer.

"Still..." He looks around the room with bored eyes. "I kinda wish they'd stop this kind of set up "

It was pitch black but his eyes adjusted enough to make out the little bits of the room he was tossed in. He was surrounded by more than a dozen children; who were all huddled up together in groups and they remained in the farthest corners of the room. This wasn't an uncommon sight, but Xavier still empathized with the kids. They were terrified, and they had every right to be. Having no idea where you were, relying on the presence of strangers for emotional support, anyone would be terrified if they were in their shoes.

As he stares at the locked door, Xavier reaches up to touch the glass armband on his upper left arm. It was a round armband which was made in a braided knot design. Contained and floating within the glass, if one were to play close attention, was an abundunt amount of deep blue crystalline dust. All of it moved in a clockwise rotational flow.

Usually, Xavier would conceal it underneath his sleeve as it is a vital piece of equipment, but in this case, he made an exception. While not necessarily safe to use on living creatures, both mortal and immortal, it's a weapon his people use only for self defense. If he has to, he'll use it to bust out of here if it turns out this is more than a mere child trafficking ring.

'If they think they kidnapped some big shot's kid...' He looks down at his attire then smirks. 'Then I'm certain that an idiot or two will think of trying to ask for a hefty ransom.'

After they forcefully took off his poncho, Xavier noticed the looks he was receiving after they saw his clothes. Rather his usual casual attire, he decided to one-up his clothing. His current attire consists a light purple short-sleeved turtle neck and black short trousers. Over his shirt was a dark purple waist coat with a zipper rather than buttons. The only thing he had kept were his customized combat boots, and he doubts any of his kidnappers noticed.

He isn't sure whether he's allowed to use his weapon yet, but if worse comes to worse, it'll be used as a last resort. For now, all he can do is sit in the room full of terrified children. Rather than seating himself with a group, he chose to sit in the middle. It's not that he doesn't want to associate himself with them; for their own safety, he has to put some distance between them from him. Plus, he has to be ready for when someone enters the room to fetch him.

He further analyzes his surroundings. "I don't see a window anywhere, so either we're underground or they properly boarded up the windows..." Xavier murmurs to himself. He lifts his hand and stares at his right bandaged arm. "They didn't tie my arms, so I can assume they didn't do the same for the other kids. Either they're stupid and think we're incapable of fighting back or..." he trails off to glare at the door. "Or they're smart and plan to use us..."

The author's narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

Lowering his hands, he felt around the rough surface of the floor. "Cement... Strange. And it's really smooth. I thought they only used brick," he said, recalling the paint that had mostly been peeled from most of the buildings. "This area might be located far from prying eyes. Anyone would want to hide a such an advanced facility like this."

Then he took something else into consideration. Before he felt a poorly done jab to the back of his neck - from what he assumed was the back of a gun - he got a chance to look at his captors. Neither appeared to be type to willingly participate in such deeds. Though Xavier felt that they have some experience based on how they were acting, there was a subtle hint of hesitation from the looks he was receiving from the adults.

Although the hit wasn't enough to render him unconscious, it did cause his the back of his neck to throb. During the time he pretended to be unconscious, he felt a sack being quickly placed over his head before carried away to Gods knows where. From the sounds he picked up before being placed into a running vehicle, he knew there were witnesses to the kidnapping. And, which was the only thing that surprised him, he heard casual greetings being exchanged between passerbys and his kidnappers.

Even when the voices were heard right next to him, they would simply ignore him and walk away. That was enough to tell Xavier that everyone's in on whatever they were doing in this world. Too bad it didn't explain what happened to the previous group that was sent here.

He doubts the public knew the location of this facility or its existence. From his experience, there had to be several individuals that rebelled against whatever type of goverment that was formed upon the founding of this world's country. To make sure none attempted or even thought of destroying this place; little to no information is to be spread about what happens to the children. The adults wouldn't appear so calm if they were to learn whatever it is the types of conditions their children were placed in.

Or at least, that's what a part of him hopes. No one could truly be that heartless and accepting of such a cruel system.

"Ugh... I just wish we'd finally get sent to a world where it doesn't involve me getting kidnapped... AGAIN," he grumbles to himself.

"Excuse me..." a small voice whispers to him. Xavier turns his head to find a boy physically around his age scooting closer towards him. "Were you kidnapped too?"

Holding back a snide remark, Xavier answers, "Yeah, just a few minutes ago."

"Same..." The boy looks around then pulls down his collar, peeking Xavier's interest. He didn't see much due to the lack of light, but he was still able to see the tattoo etched on the boy's skin. "I came here with my sis..." he tells him.

"So... You've been travelling a lot..." he said, refraining from addressing the kid as a 'Traveller'.

"Yeah," he nods. He extends a hand and said, "My name's Alphonse."

He took this moment to take in his appearance. Alphonse physically appeared no older than him. His attire resembled to that of a papper boy; a casual brown and grey vest, a loose dress shirt, worn out shoes and black trousers with grey strips. Over his ash-blonde head, he wore an oversized brown flat cap with some patches on the side. Probably due to the boy's travels, he had naturally tanned beige skin. What Xavier found most curious were his eyes.

While he had no right to judge, as he chose to use violet contacts to conceal his true eye color, something appeared unnatural about Alphonse's. The other boy's almost resembled an unnatural color of teal. Then again, with how dark the room was, he could hardly the large pair of glasses on the bridge of Alphonse's small nose.

Xavier takes his hand and shook it. "Xavier."

Smiling, after letting go, Alphonse positions his hands on the floor behind him and leans back to stare at the darkened ceiling.

"Looks like we're stuck here, huh?" said Alphonse, sounding oddly calm, which didn't go unnoticed by Xavier.

"You're not scared?" he asks, curious.

Alphonse shrugs. "Eh, I've been through worse. This is a first I've been kidnapped, but I don't see these guys as the murdering type."

This was a first for Xavier as well. It's not every day you'd hear or see a kid act so calmly while being away from their parental guardian While Xavier can live without hearing a bunch of children screaming at the top of their lungs to be released, it's.concerning to see one be so accepting of everything. Xavier has an excuse for being able to keep his cool; the question is what's Alphonse's.

'Unless...' Xavier found himself unable to finish that thought as he felt his stomach drop. "Are you-" Before he could say anything, the door was suddenly kicked open.

Light spilled into the room, and he doesn't know if it was the light or the sound that scared them, but all of the children, aside from him and Alphonse, began to whimper and huddle closer to one another. Xavier dared not stand, nor did Alphonse as a tall figure stood at the doorway. He strains his eyes in hopes of seeing the person's face, but the light from behind the person obscured his already poor vision.

Had he not focus on seeing their face, he would have noticed a familiar older teen before he was tossed into the room like some sort of ragged doll. Xavier moves his feet away as the person lands a foot in front of them. Xavier immediately recognized who it was right as the door was slammed shut. He waited until the heavy footsteps had stopped echoing from the hall outside before making his move.

Going on all fours, Xavier crawls to the older teen's side. From what he could make out; tawny skin; tall and lean build; shoulder length grey layered hair; and face only the opposite sex finds loveable yet punchable by the same sex - he knew who it was.

"Ulric..." whispers Xavier. When he received no response, he places a hand on Ulric's shoulder and tries to shake him awake. "Ulric, c'mon, get up..." Still nothing. Now he was getting tempted to do something he shouldn't.

"Are you sure he's alive...?" Alphonse said quietly.

"As if something can kill this mutt..." Xavier tries again, except this time he took something out of his pocket. "Looks like I've not no choice." He reaches and rummages for something in his back pocket.

He initially thought they only dealt with children; but with Ulric present, Xavier started to wonder what happened to the teenagers. He was so focused on the much younger populace that he had not taken into account on the possibility of other victims.

"What's that?" questions the boy as he observed the former. Xavier take out a red capsule filled with a refined powder.

"Chili powder." He snaps the capsule in half and waves one in front of Ulric's nose. Xavier explains, "Ulric's people worshipped wolves so much that they were eventually blessed to become one themselves." He stops moving his hand when he saw the teenager's nose twitch. "While they can revert back to their original form-" Ulric's eyes snap open before he swats the capsule out of Xavier's small hand. "Most of their senses are similar to a wolf's."

Ulric jerks to a sitting position and starts to violently sneeze, causing many of the children to scream in fear. For him, it felt like ash had been forcefully blown into his nose. Not only was the scent unbearable, but the burning sensation throughout his nostrils was irritating. It wasn't necessarly painful, but did feel a bit difficult to breath until the smell went away. He tightly shuts his eyes as he instinctively scratches his nose.

For a second there, Xavier thought he heard a canine-like whine as Ulric hastily tries to rub out the remaining smell from his nose with the back of his arm.

"Welcome back to the land of the living," Xavier deadpans.

Having better eyesight in the dark, Ulric's head automatically snaps in his direction. He dryly responds, "Xavier, of course you'd be the first person I meet in a dark room full of terrified children."

"For your information, I'm not the source of their fears. This time..." Xavier quietly adds after recalling who was right next to him. He changes the subject. "Where are the others?"

"Don't know." Ulric looks around the room with a deep scowl. "We got grabbed after Succu ditched us for some old fart." Wanting to relax for a moment after being abruptly woken, he lays down on his back, much to Xavier's annoyance. The teen then continues, "Somehow, they got the idea that we weren't from here."

"You mean they figured out you were born somewhere else? Aren't they a little paranoid-"

"No," Ulric interrupts Xavier. His voice deepens to a low growl as he mutters, "I think someone ratted us out..."

"Hey," Alphonse spoke up to remind the two of his presence. With a lopsided grimace, he hesistantly asks them, "Who are you guys...?"

Xavier and Ulric exchanged full of concern, as if they were uncertain about something only they knew. Ulric stares down at his lap and habitually rubs the back of his neck.

Carefully picking out his words, Xavier answers, "Think of us as the guys who... may turn into the bad guys at a certain point."

----------------------------------------

The three continued walking around what appeared to be a maze of small, hand-made food stalls. The set up was pretty simple, a singular straight row was set on both sides of the street while the rest of the stalls set in groups of four and placed along the midsection. The canopies above all of the stalls appeared woven together, providing very little sunlight, or lack of since the brown clouds continue to block out the daylight. At least they were given more than enough shade.

Still, despite the poor lighting, the vibrant colors of the cloth did give an uplifting feeling when looking around the stalls. Compared to how dull colors that appeared bleached into the city, this was certainly pleasant change of scenes.

"Can we leave now....?" Noise complains while plugging his nose. There was some smoking being produced by whoever was cooking, and the mixture of the smells from different dishes produced a somewhat pungent odor. It was a surprise that Ayane, who has the most sensitive nose in the group, wasn't reacting at all.

Sound, having expected this, held his notebook up. It read: 'I told you to wait outside.'

"I know, but..." The redhead glances around they continue to walk by several food stalls. "You said I have to get my feet wet sometime I can't play the role you risked your life to give me if I remain on dry land forever." Noise yawns and stretches his arms over his head. "Though it's too bad... I was really enjoying the feeling of a proper mattress..."

Sound was about to write something but stopped himself before he could write the first letter. There was a lot he could write down, but he knows that it won't have the same effect when it is conveyed verbally. Rather than writing anything, he drops his arms to his sides and slides his pen into his sleeve. While he knows Noise is old enough to take of himself, Sound wished there was more he could have done.

In all honesty, he was surprised the Noise had been able to adjust to their lifestyle a few weeks after his arrival. Sure, it was rocky at first, but he still adjusted to his new life far earlier than anticipated. Noise caught him at the corner of his eye when Sound sullenly turned his head away. Despite wearing a mask, Noise could tell something was wrong just from Sound's change in posture. He was about to say something until he heard a weird noise in front of them. They both stop and look to find Ayane staring at something.

Her fox ears had flattened underneath her hood and her tail had become bushier than earlier. In Noise's eyes, she more looks like a frightened cat. Having been born with her, Sound knew she was upset.

Noise cocks a brow. "What?"

"I don't know... something stinks," she said, glaring in all directions.

"Huh?" he said, confused.

"I'm not talking about you, don't worry!" said Ayane, causing Noise glare at her. She sniffs the air and turns to follow the scents direction, only to directly face the red-head. "Huh. Maybe its is you. For some reason, you smell more like a an In-Worlder today..."

This was a first Noise heard this. While fox girl was trying to make out the scent, Sound was internally screaming at his twin. He had completely forgotten to remind Noise to put on some incense before they left.

Fearing she'd figure it out, Sound moves back and starts waving at her, fruitlessly signalling at her to stop. When Ayane failed to notice him, Sound slaps his hands over his mask and struggles to not to scream out of frustration. He tries again. Unlike the first time; his movements were more frantic; more erratic as he tries to grab her attention behind Noise's back.

Noise, on the other hand, could not for the life of him understand what was going on. The only reason he could think why Ayane was basically telling him he stunk, which he finds insulting, is that he forgot to put on that powder Sound gave him. Pushing Ayane a bit when she was getting too close for comfort, he glances over the boy who jumped and pretended he was preoccupied with one of the food stalls.

He didn't see anything wrong with this since Sound is known to eat everything he finds edible, so seeing him intently stare down at the displayed food was expected. In actuality, Sound was trying to figure out what to do to distract his sister. There's no way he can write to Ayane to drop it until they get back home. Because he knows if he does that, Noise will start raising questions. He hadn't realized someone was behind the food stall he was standing in front of until a small plate of food came was handed to him.

Surprised, Sound looks up and is greeted with a smile of a short oldman but with a stout built. His squared face seemed worse for wear, but the shine in his bright blue eyes said otherwise. If he wasn't offered some food, he would have mistaken the old man as a blacksmith due tp his poorly trimmed beard, darkened-skin, and clothes that appear different from the local denizens. While cautious, the masked boy silently takes the plate.

Pleased, his smile reaches the corner of his eyes. "I see you three are fellow travelers. Never thought I'd encounter others."

Sound points to himself with his free hand and tilts his head.

"Yes, I know what you are," he chuckles. "I retreated to this world five years ago after mine went to shit. I didn't think I'd meet others like me." The man glances over to the other two. "But you know, this is the last place you should have visited."

This peeked Sound's interests. Reluctantly ignoring the food, the masked boy places the food down then takes out his notebook, which was hung on his right hip.

The old man raises a brow at this. "Having trouble speaking?"

He hesitates before writing, 'No. I'm a Cursed Blood.'

There was a flicker of fear in the man's eyes before he instinctively took a step back. This was normal response on Sound's part. He'd be more concerned if they reacted the opposite.

"I-I'm sorry," the man apologizes, realizing how insensitive his response was.

Sound raises his hand and shakes his head. He wrote, 'Don't worry. Having a condition that's the equivalent of an STD isn't something even I would want to avoid too.'

The man had to do a double take then leaned closer and reread contents of the notebook to see if he understood it correctly. A few seconds later, the man slaps his hands on his belly and barks out a hearty laugh, disrupting the other two and grabbing the attention. Sound was surprised as well; people who know about Cursed Bloods would shoo them away.

"The name's Tholvion," he said, extending his large hand. Sound took it and they both shook hands. "I know I may not look like it, but I'm half giant half dwarf."

All three felt as if their eyes would pop out as they stare at the man and, they didn't want to, have a mental image of both races to compare him to. Ayane's mouth completely wide open as she slowly starts to recoil. Sound, without looking, placed a hand under her jaw and slowly pushed it back up. This prompts the man to laugh even more.

"Is it that surprising?" he asked, grinning.

"Can you blame us?" Noise answered, still feeling baffled at this revelation.

"What, that someone that appears more dwarfish has a food business?"

Sound slowly wrote, 'No... That's not it.'

Both boys didn't want to say anything. It wasn't the fact that someone part dwarf is cooking; which is honestly not the first time seeing a race professionalize in something that is not commonly known to be a races' area of expertise. No, it was something they'd rather not say. Until the girl openly admitted it.

"How did a dwarf and a giant end up having you!?" she blurted out.

Sound went behind his sister and pinched her cheeks, roughly stretching them as he pulls her aside to write her a long lecture. She cries in pain and struggles to break free from her brother's grasp, but each time she did, he would pinch her cheeks even harder. Once they were away, Sound took his notebook and started write out his entire lecture to Ayane, who was cowering as she sensed his slowly rising anger.

Noise gave a short bow to Tholvion. "I'm sorry," he apologized. "My friend's sister doesn't know when to shut up."

"It's fine," Tholvion said calmly. "But I would keep a close eye on her," he warned, earning a suspicious look from the red-head. Looking around to see if there were any near passerbys, he beckons the boy to come closer. When Noise did, the man cups his hand near his mouth and whispers into the boy's ear, "The people here do despicable things to the young ones... You better keep a close eye on her. Her baby face could get her and you two roped up in this world's business."

This was a warning he could not take lightly. Having said everything he needed to say, Tholvion goes back to doing his business, leaving Noise to his own thoughts. He thought about what he said. Looking at Ayane, she did somewhat appear younger than others believe her to be. And her exciteable nature doesn't exactly help either. Noise continues to watch the man as he slowly turns to face the twins, who had just finished their little (one-sided) argument.

Rather than immediately rejoining them, Noise paused and turns his head back to the half-dwarf.

"Is it worth it...?" the boy quietly asks, causing the man to halt in his movements. He clarifies, "Are the sacrifices made for this peace worth it...? Can you truly stand living in a world like that...?"

Tholviion didn't need to say anytjomg. He knew the moment he saw the red-head that he was different from the other two. While all three gave off an aura that said they've had their share a certain degree of experience, something about Noise felt off. Like as if he had experienced the same things the half-dwarf did. Only very few and recognize the walk of an injured soldier. And he doesn't mean the physical type.

"You can judge me all you want," he said, his voice losing its previous warmth. A hollowed expression crosses his aged features as he spoke, "No world is perfect, that I know we both understand. Adults are selfish, they'll do whatever it takes to have peace even if it's just a moment of bliss. Regret only occurs once you start seeing wrinkles on your face and your lucious hair turning grey." He paused and tightly shuts his eyes. "Sometimes, it's impossible to move more than you already have."

That was all he needed to hear. Noise silently sends the man a short salute before taking Sound's previously forgotten food and bringing it with him. Tholvion, although he refused to look his way, felt a familiar pang in his chest. Despite coming from different worlds, all soldier's share the same gesture which demonstrates their respect for a fellow combantent.

Having seen the brief gesture, Sound wrote, 'Is something wrong?'

"We've got a problem," he tells them. "We need to cover your sister's baby face."

Ayane scrunched up her face. "Excuse me?" she muttered, insulted.

"No offense, but I can't exactly have your brother going ballistic if you were to suddenly go missing."

"I'm not that easy to snatch!" Ayane snapped.

"I'm not saying you are," Noise said sternly as he crosses his arms. "But we can't risk it. I just got a nice warning from the old man." He partially turns to look back at the food stall. "Unless you're Xavier, you CAN'T get kidnapped."

As the two prepare to argue, a dark figure looms next to one of the closest food stalls.

----------------------------------------

"So let me get this straight," Xavier began, his left brow twitching. "You decided not to look for Succu, went to the government itself and blatantly declared yourselves as travelers."

Ulric refused to answer.

"And you're wondering why you were two were caught," the boy deadpans. "I can't tell whether to be disappointed in you guys for your incompitence, or in myself for not realizing it sooner why we lost contact with you guys."

While it is understandable since Ulric is fairly new to their line of work, it doesn't give him the excuse to not use his common sense. That's why Xavier didn't oppose the idea of not going on a mission with Succu. As long as there was at least one mentally mature individual in the group, he didn't have to worry about the others since the wolf would be there to make sure their to keep everyone in line. Yet here he is, locked up with Xavier and a bunch of frightened children.

As frustrated he was with the situation as a whole, a part of Xavier was relieved; relieved to know that Succu was alright somewhere in this unknown world. He knows he'll regret feeling like this later when they reunite, but he can't help worry over the demononess's safety.

"So, what do we do now?" the grey haired teen asks.

"I have a few ideas... but I had a bag over my head so I couldn't see the lay out of this place," said Xavier as he clicked his teeth. "I hate to admit it, but as easy as it is to pick that lock, we'd be walking around a maze."

Ulric's head perks up upon picking up on what he just said. "Wait, you're telling me this whole time, you could have just unlocked the door."

"Hm? It's a simple copper plated warded lock that can be opened on both sides," he said in a matter-of-fact tone. Xavier cocks a brow when he realize both Alphonse and Ulric were gawking at him. "What? I was getting tired of the old man's nightly visits at the orphanage in my first life," he said nonchalantly. "Besides, isn't lock picking common knowledge by now for kids?"

Earlier, Ulric felt pieces of his pride being chipped away when Xavier chided his inability to keep such a small group together. Yet Xavier here admitted that he knew how to get out of the room this whole time. He doesn't know whether to laugh or punch the kid for not saying anything sooner. Then again, since it's Xavier. There's no knowing what he's got up his sleeve, all Ulric knows is that Xavier has a certain set of skills that he does not know how he acquired them.

Standing up, he grabs the small boy up by the back of his jacket and lifts him off the ground with ease. Alphonse stands as well and follows as Ulric carries a stunned Xavier to the door. The children who were close by slowly watched the trio. Although still fearful, there was a glint of curiousity in their eyes. Xavier's initial thought was to try and break free, then he thought of the

"What do you plan on doing?" Alphonse asks as he carefully watches the pair.

"Midget here is our ticket out of here." Ulric began. Xavier sent Ulric a spiteful look even after he was placed back down. The older teen lifts his chin up as a smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth. "And I happen to have a nose that's strong enough to have memorized all the smells we passed when I was being dragged here."

The realization dawns on him. He hadn't thought about it. Xavier was so busy formulating a potential escape plan that would involves rescuing most of the kids that he had forgotten who it was that was tossed into the room. As much as he hates to admit it, and he really hate it, Ulric plays a much more vital role than he previously thought. That doesn't mean he'll admit any fault in the delay of their escape.

Dropping to the floor, Xavier sits on the ground in a cross legged position and starts unbuckling the belts of his right boot. Still observing the pale boy, Alphonse steps a bit closer to Ulric, who had been too preoccupied with his own thoughts to notice his presence. There was something rather strange about the two; and it wasn't just their outlandish appearances. Ulric reminded Alphonse of a native, yet at the same time, had an animalistic nature to his actions.

It doesn't help that he was just told that Ulric can turn into a wolf and heard the teen openly admit he can navigate their way through smell. While Alphonse is a Traveler, him and his sister began their world-faring travels when he was a toddler. They settled down into a normal(ish) world, but it's only recently the siblings resumed their travels. Aside from the fellow Travelers and friendly locals they've encountered along the way, they've never met someone that had a certain type of shape-shifting ability.

"How long?" Xavier vaguely asks without looking up. Though Alphonse knew the question was aimed directly at him.

A quizzical look crosses his face as he stares at the back of the other boy's head. "I don't know what you mean."

Xavier stops after unclasping the last belt and slips off his boot. His shoulder drops as he tilts his head all the way back to stare up at what he hopes is the ceiling. There was a moment of silence between the two. Ulric sensed the tension and, rather than act as the mediator of the group, chose to give them space and check on the children to see how they're holding up. Since he's new to most of what they do, he knew it wasn't his place yet to speak up.

With Ulric gone, Xavier had no qualms in confronting the boy. There were other children but their young minds aren't mature enough to comprehend most of what they're about to say. Even if they did understand, no one will believe them, and eventually, they'll forget the conversation altogether as they grow up. That's how children are, and Xavier is grateful for one to have been mistaken as one to be thrown in a room full of them.

That makes things a lot more easier for him since Alphonse obviously cares about these little munchkins. If he is what he thinks he is, Xavier is confident their conversation won't turn for the worse.

"You're like me," he vaguely began, detaching the bottom layer from the sole of his boots.

"Like what?" Alphonse said, controlling his voice as much as he emotionally could.

Taking two two long pins, he slides the removable sole it back in place. Alphonse moved several steps back as he watched with suspicious eyes as Xavier go on his knees and positions himself in front of the lock.

"You're a Cursed Blood," Xavier bluntly tells the boy as he adjusts his grip on the pins and starts working on the door. "Since you and your sister travel a lot, I can assume you've heard of them?"

Alphonse's posture changes. Moving one foot forward, Alphonse crosses his arms and slightly tilts his chin down. His lips tightly pursed together as he begins to glare at the back of the white-hair boy's head.

"A few times, but only in places that were aware there were other places beyond their own."

"Then you know what I'm implying..." said Xavier. He remained focus on the lock, but Xavier could feel the eyes boring deeply into the back of his head. "Then again, you may not even know yourself even if you put the pieces together. Not surprising since there are very few of us that willingly talk about it."

Although he was far on the other side of the room, Ulric could still hear their exchange. He sullenly stares up at the the ground. While not one himself, with his circle of friends consisting of mostly Cursed Bloods, and he knows the difficulty a person faces once they learn what they are. From what he's seen, it's never easy when dealt with alone. It doesn't have to be for Alphose. Hopefully, he doesn't react negatively.

And there's so much a person like him can hope in situations like this.

"Then tell me what I am," Alphonse demands.

There it was - confusion, anger, frustration. That's the only thing they ever want; to have someone tell them to their face what they are - at first. Those born with it feel like that until someone tells them the truth. From there, they learn how they obtained their curse, and that process is never one you should tred alone. Maintaining a neutral face, Xavier goes back to working on the lock.

"Cursed Bloods, like in the name, are those cursed by their blood," Xavier explained, earning a blank stare from Alphonse. He continues after noticing his silence, "Although not rare, there are very few born in one world. Whatever you've heard is merely based on speculation since they haven't met others like them. And you can't blame them for their lack of knowledge since it's hard to tell who shares the same condition.

"Yet you knew right away," said Alphonse, his jaw clenching as he spoke.

"That's because I'm not afraid of exploring," Xavier snaps, turning his head to look back at him as he clenches his utensils with both hands. "And neither are you. You yourself know there's something different about you, you just can't bring yourself to accept it. You want someone to tell it to your face on what you are so you can stop denying it."

Alphonse stood there, sinking in every word that came out of Xavier's mouth.

"You're someone that was given a second chance," said Xavier. "But rather than a miracle, it's an ironic form of punishment by whatever God governs the world you were originally born in. The mechanics of your curse are based on whatever gut-churning sin you comitted." He leans closer to the rusted keyhole when he hears a familiar click. "Or should I say, your past self."

There was a spine chilling silence which pregnated the dust-filled air, leaving only the continual sounds of whimpering children and the dripping of water from the ceiling into an unseen puddle. Alphonse felt the walls close around him; a sudden emergence of negative thoughts flooded his mind. All his life, he's always wondered why he and his sister had to travel so much. And then there were times he questioned his own existence.

It was the same every night - nightmares. Dreams of a life not his own. And every time he looked at a reflection of his dreamself, he would wake with his chest tightening and the feeling that the air of his lungs had been completely sucked out. He feared sleep during the first years of his life because of that. He couldn't time to anyone; not other travelers, not a scholar in a different world, nor his own sister. Then he met someone, someone that had the same golden-eye color as him.

They didn't tell them much except to be careful of spilling his blood; to keep others from coming into contact with it, and most of all, conceal his true eye color. So when he requested this from his sister, she had no qualms with his request, though she did voice her concerns. Despite the limited information he was provided, somehow, the dreams became tolerable. He would still abruptly wake, but he was simply find himself drenched in sweat. And now, at the age of 11, he finds another like him.

Only this time, like as if a dam had burst open, a swirl of emotions began to violently clash. What this the truth? Had he comitted some unspeakable deed in a life he has no full recollection of? And if so, was it worth living for a second time? The more he thought about it, the more his surroundings began to feel nonexistent. His hands began to violetly quake, the sides of his face began to sweat. Breathing was difficult as he felt a pressure tighten around his lungs.

The beat of his heart began to painfully hit the walls of his chest at an alarming rate. Stumbling forward, a hand automatically grips at his shirt and his vision began to spin. Xavier could sense the anxiety radiating off of Alphonse. But rather than helping, he maintained his focus on the lock. It wasn't that he was purposely being slow. The locks inside the keyhole are so rusted that it's difficult to press the specific keys without accidentally breaking his utensils.

They were too costly to replace.

"Hey." Ulric's voice and his warm hand on the boy's head was enough to bring him back to reality. Ulric's sharp icy-blue eyes stare down at Xavier. "Verbally attacking him won't do anyone any good. Not only that, we're in a room filled with human pups."

"Childhood amnesia," he bluntly said, shrugging. "Everyone has that. Besides, we know how adults treat children. Whatever they say to them will simply sound like some make-believe story to compensate for the fear they felt when they were captured. " He sticks his tongue out when he felt the door was close to opening. "Besides, what's the point of being gentle about it? His memories will deal the final blow." Xavier hears a much louder click before the door cracks open. "Rip the bandaid soon."

A glimmer of hope shone in the children's eyes as Xavier stands and kicks the door open. Light pools into the room, revealing numerous children, several of them from an entirely different, yet humanoid, species. While some had flinched at the uncharacteristic nature or unnatural skin pigmentation on these next to them, none care. They clung to one another all this time, sharing the warmth of their presence as a form of reassurance. They were all torn from their families.

While some had been handed down by their guardians or relatives willingly, others were not. Just like Xavier. All of them shot to their feet and closely stood b, but hesitate to move when they hear a thunderous roar of footsteps echoing in the hall.

"Because-" Xavier paused as his outstretches his bandaged arm and his armband begins to glow. A wild smile stretches across his face. "Being a Cursed Blood is something we need to live with. Only a dumbass would think of wimping out by suicide."

Something about that last line resonated with Alphonse.

'Could he too have had...?' Before his thoughts could finish, Ulric steps in front of him, his taller frame blocking the child's view.

A low growl could be heard from Ulric. If anyone were to look at his face, they would see fangs slowly becoming elongated and the pupils in his eyes becoming constricted. He tightly curls his fingers as his nails begin to turn black and sharpen. Fear began to grip at the hearts of the children as the footsteps approaches the loosely opened door. Xavier was just about ready to conjure up with weapon when the figure steps into view.

With a hand on the doorframe, his eyes adjust to the light as the figure of a young woman, no older than Ulric, is revealed. She doesn't appear tired, but worry and fear was etched on her pale features. Upon seeing the smaller boy, her face lit up and the color returned to her face, allowing her face to glow with delight.

"Xavier!" she cries, practically jumping as she runs towards the boy.

Xavier, on the other hand, turns as white as paper as she approaches. "Succu-" Before he could finish, let alone run, he finds his face being forcefully slammed against her bossom as she throws her arms around his head.

Ulric relaxes and retracts his claws, blinking until his eyes returned to normal. Rolling his neck, he straightens his posture and watches as Xavier flails his small arms around. Fruitlessly trying to break free of Succu's bone crushing grasp.

"Ah! I've been so bored without you around," she said. Xavier, unable to say anything, had his face buried in between her chest. "Who would have thought my beloved would follow after me." He muffled something only she understood. She happily answers, "I saw you with the other two when I was racing the policemen! The moment I saw you, I knew I had to come find you!"

The only saving grace was that she was in proper clothing. Had it been her usual attire, he was certain he'd die. Not from her usual choke hold, but her poisonous pheremones

"That was you!?" he angrily gasps after breaking free, only to be pulled back towards her.

"Yep! I borrowed it from a guy that told me he was part of some guy that said he was from the resistance! I wonder if that's why the police were so quick to chase me..."

The more she leans forward, her long wavy chestnut hair spills over her shoulders, concealing much of Xavier's head. Not wanting to see their only lock-picker to pass out, Ulric decides to step in. Unless he does something, Succu will carry around Xavier's unconscious body and leave him and the others in this god-forsaken world.

"Succu," Ulric spoke up, gaining her attention. "You're going to kill him if you keep doing that." She pouts but relents.

Xavier gasps after being freed. "I told you not to do that!"

"Aw~ But that's all you ever allow me to do."

As they argue, Alphonse was at a loss for words. He already knew Ulric and Xavier were an odd pair. Just seeing their third party member makes him wonder if the rest of their companions are as rambunctious this supposed teenage girl. He receives another pat on the head by Ulric, who appeared exhausted just from watching the two.

"Don't worry, this is a normal thing for those two," he tells him.

"But aren't those two..." Alphonse trails off as he stares at the duo.

"Not age appropriate?" the wolf boy finishes. "Don't worry, she's not after his body if that's what you're thinking. She's more attracted to his mental maturity and the age of his soul." Ulric looks around at the room of children and announces, "Anyone that wants to get out, follow us. We may not know where you're originally from, but if you come with us, we'll get you back safely."

"Wait, are we not saving everyone!?" Alphonse shouts.

"Take another look around you." Ulric points out to several children. "Some appear to be residences of this world. You can tell since they're the only ones who have their backs pressed against the wall."

And just as he said, several children were found by the four had moved to the other side of the room whereas the rest had gravitated towards them. Or more specifically, the exit he had oh so graciously provided.. However, since they were still afraid of being caught by any patrolling guard. As for the ones that appeared glued to the dirtied wall, whereas many found it concerning, Xavier found it questionable.

Aside from the fear of being caught, there was no other reason for them to appear so adamant on remaining in the room. It was dark, quiet, the ceiling was, thanks to the provided light from the hallway, revealed to be cracked in various spots. This caused droplets of water in the room. Not only that, they didn't appear to be visibly shaken from their current situation. They were no signs of physical trauma, well dressed in proper attire, and most of all, appeared well-fed.

This was a stark contrast in comparison to all the tired, hungry children that appeared they haven't had a bath in weeks. Their clothing was a simply white shirt and pants, as well wore shoes that appeared ready to fall apart. This was enough evidence to show those that were born in this world have been living the good life. They had no reason to be here. None of them do.

So why, why did they appear as if they wanted to remain while others appeared ready to flee?

----------------------------------------

"Let me OUT!" Ayane bellows as she repeatedly slams her body against the glass wall. "I swear, if any of you DARE touch my brother and our friend, I'll... I'll... I'll rip off your legs and stick them on your heads!"

The guards standing in front of the containment exchanged looks after hearing such an odd threat. As she was throwing whatever threat that came to mind to the armed guards, Sound struggles to free himself as he his roughly pinned to the ground by to other guards. One had their hands tightly gripping the back of his neck and head while the other held both of his arm below his back.

Even the slightly jerk would cause the one holding his arms to twist the skin of his forearms, causing his body to instinctively stiffen as the pain radiates to the rest of his body. The pain was so great that Sound had to forcefully bit onto his lower lip to muffle out his voice when he felt like it was about to leak out. Being kicked in the stomach, Noise's legs buckle as he is forcefully held up by what he can assume is a robot.

Although it appeared to be a walking trash-can with a giant - malfunctioning - lightbulb for a head, its sturdy built compensated for what it lacks in its design. And that meant, if Noise made one move, he'll go to sleep forever. As tempting as that sounds, he'd rather sleep naturally rather than having help from a complete waste of resources. No one bothered to acknowledged whoever entered the room as a high, groaning sound of the large, rusted metal doors open.

"So, these are the three you called me for?"

The sounds of high-heeled footsteps echoed in the room. Since the only source of light was the small droplight from the ceiling and the machine's head, the three could barely make out who it was that ended. The person stops before they completely stepped foot into the light.

"I thought I told you I don't deal with children," a woman spoke. Her honeyed voice would have been found attractive by the boys if it weren't for the way she spoke to whoever was in charge. She sighs, "If you only wanted me for medical advice then..." Her voice trails as her eyes fall on the imprisoned girl, who was placed at the nearest corner of the room.

"My, my~" Her sudden interest sent shivers down Ayane's spine as she felt the woman's eyes stare deeply into her own. "Now isn't that something. I always thought human evolution would be extraordinary but... this is truly something."

"Don't you dare... touch her..." Noise wheezes, which earned him another punch to the gut.

The woman ignores him and moves around the light to walk over to Ayane. When Sound saw the grey heels crossing his line of sight, he tries once more to free himself.

"Hold... still!" one guard grunts as he tries to maintain his grip on the boy's arms.

Rolling her eyes, the other guard removes her hands from Sound's head and punches him. Due to the sudden blunt trauma to the head, Sound accidentally bit through the skin of his bottom lip, causing it to bleed profusely. However, that was the least of his problems. Upon hearing a click on the side of his head, Sound froze as he felt his mask fly off his and watches as it slightly to another part of the room.

Ayane sees this and starts to panic. She presses herself against the glass wall and starts repeatedly slamming the side of her fist against it.

"Sound!" She beats the glass with both fists when she saw Sound try to turn his face towards the floor. "Just stay calm! I'll get us out of here! HEY YOU!" The two guards in from of her jump when she directly addressed them. "You have to give him back his mask! Please! I'll let you do whatever to me!"

"Tch, what's her problem." The woman grabs the boy's lower jaw and forces him to turn her way. "You've got anxiety or... Some...." Her voice begins to slur as she stares directly at his face.

Her partner notices this and reaches over for her shoulder. "Hey, you alright-" The second his fingertip touchers her, her body goes limp and collapses over Sound's head.

Others look on in confusion while Ayane desperately shouts things that became incoherent to Sound. Shaking, without moving his head, his eyes slowly turn to look at the woman's face. The eyes that stared back at him were lifeless; the skin of her face, while still with some color, rapidly starts losing its previous warmth the longer it presses against his own. He begins hyperventilate the longer he stares at woman's dead eyes. When he blinked, he swore he saw the eyeballs move to look directly back at him.

As much as he wanted to look away, his eyes remained transfixed to her face. The body was eventually pried the body off him and his mask was returned to him, but he remained still as the others inspected the body.

"I-I can't believe it..." Ayane and Noise watch in horror as one guard looks up at the woman. His voice shook in fear as he finishes, "She's dead...."

Ayane covers her mouth and begins to whimper. Noise stares down at Sound with wide eyes. He's heard of it before, but he never thought he'd actually get to see it in person.

"I see, he's one of those rumored Cursed Blood." A wicked smile stretches on the woman's face. "This is definitely worth more of my time than I initially expected."

To Be Continued