Prologue

12th of Creo, 997th Year of The Era of Creation

            Explosions from distant fireballs roar in the distance, the ashen sky flashing with magic nonstop. Hordes of disfigured monsters screamed as they charged a fortress in the mountains. Large lizard-like creatures, called dragonewts, clamped their jaws shut before fire spewed from their mouths turning the desolate night into a glistening day. Some dragonewts close to the encroaching hordes attempted to thin the number of these monsters’ using swords made of mystical fire. These monsters, called nonels, however, seemed unfazed by the attacks. Most of the nonels simply recovered, their bodies reconnecting and for those seemingly dead the other nonels would simply march over the corpses. One dragonewt, adorned in semi-translucent metallic armor, began shouting at those around himself, a pained look covered his face. Those who heard him began to run towards the fortress, getting inside before the gates closed. As they retreated however the hordes drew ever closer, the three moons bring light to the now dimming battlefield as the dragonewts began to retreat into their fortress, though thousands remained outside unable to make it inside and continued fighting the encroaching hordes. A massive barhonic circle surrounded the fortress as a barrier descended from the highest tower of the fortress. The circle had a vibrant red glow with small eyes, with runic symbols for pupils, floating lightly above it. The armored dragonewt then voiced an incantation, which lasted for 15 minutes before the glow of the massive barhonic circle intensified. The runic eyes flew higher into the air reaching the tallest peaks of the fortress before a bright light once again filled the sky. The barhonic circle suddenly and rapidly expanded before tearing the ground around the fortress to shreds. Before the hordes could react the ground splintered as pillars of crimson red flame spewed from the ground. As the ground stopped splitting all that could be heard was the screams of dragonewts who failed to make it to the fortress and the howls of nonels caught in the flames, their bodies slowly melting and the purple glow of the nonel’s perturbing insides revealed. For 1 grueling hour the sound of screams echoed before an eerie silence replaced it. Although the battle seemed to be won the fortress was silent, the terror of war crushing any desire to celebrate this victory. The armored dragonewt spoke to the survivors, numbering in the thousands. Regret and pain painted his face. His face hung in defeat before he finished his speech. The dragonewts began preparing to leave the fortress gathering food and medical supplies for the next 2 hours. As the dragonewts leave the fortress the orange sun began to rise over the horizon. Dragonewts broke down outside the fortress, few amazed they made it to the next day, most mourning those they lost the night before. As they left all that was visible was an ashen black ground with the earth jutting out of the ground. For the few flat pieces of land remaining the ground was covered in the corpses of friend and foe alike. Despite the proximity none of the dragonewts recovered the bodies or keepsakes fearing that they would be joining them soon enough.

40th of Dasos, 997th Year of The Era of Creation

            In a hot arid desert large, robust, green and maroon skinned orcs were rushing to grab potions and salves. Hundreds of orcs laid on cloths right above the sand in a temporary tent hospital right outside a city. Many orcs were using magic to prevent those in critical condition from bleeding out, or even using it to avoid hearts stopping. Orcs trained in medicine were dressed in bright red toga styled robes, while most patients were wearing light leather armor. This medical camp was set up right as the battle the previous night ended. While most orcs with magical talents end up in a combat role, they retain the skills necessary for first aid. The battle was extensive and the destruction sickening. The injuries of the warriors were severe with large numbers of the orcs missing limbs, with strange bite-like wounds covering their bodies. Hundreds of orcs were moaning or screaming, fearing their lives were near their end with the bright noon sun beading down on them, the pain slowly driving them to the edge. Even those with minimal injuries found themselves unable to comprehend the horror they experienced, dozens of surviving orcs were caught in what felt like a never-ending nightmare watching their friends and comrades get mercilessly ripped apart by the nonels. Despite the fact this medical camp was outside a city their cries fell on deaf ears, with most residents either having been evacuated or massacred. The smell of blood was strong in the air and not far in the distance an open-air grave painted the yellow-orange sand a deep hue of red, the blood of orcs spilled in a violent battle. There were nonel corpses littered around but they were fewer in number than the orcs. Seeing the commotion, one orc doctor began gathering the doctors and nurses not helping those in critical condition. A barhonic circle encircled the medical camp as the doctor began a chant, runic eyes filling the air as the green circle began to glow. After a few minutes, the green circle dissipated as the runic symbols attached themselves to the critically injured. Their wounds began to clot near instantly and their breathing slowed as their pained expressions eased. The doctors and nurses rejoiced before the doctor who performed the barhonic spell collapsed. He was carried to a cloth where he was given fluids and was checked on often. After he collapsed a seldom feeling filled the medical camp as everyone realized the lengths that they must push themselves to survive. As the sun continued to beat down an unbearable heat the orcs continued to work, with many collapsing. Those still standing continued with the fear that they would be next lingering in their minds.

2nd of Metallo, 997th Year of The Era of Creation

            In a vibrant green forest full of life a castle stood tall, silver covered its towers as it pierced the heavens. Large dark green windows covered the halls of the castle. The castle in all its glory could only be described as an elegant and beautiful piece of art resting peacefully in the forest, however, the forest surrounding the castle could not be described the same. Bodies laid strewn about, trees toppled or ripped in half and the once green grass painted a deep crimson as the blood of elves soaked in. Inside the castle many finely dressed elves were discussing something. They sat at a table of indescribable beauty, it glistening as the light shines from the windows. The material being a special wood having great strength and beauty, its long lasting nature leading the table to be passed down from the current king or queen to the next. The room was silent for but a moment before the elves, dressed in fine clothing adorned with small jewels embedded into their clothing. As they began to speak color began to drain from their faces, they tried to hide their stress, some even carrying cloths to prevent beads of sweat from running down their face, though it was clear that no one here was ready for the upcoming report. At one end of the table an elf dressed even finer that the others with a radiant crown on top her head. Her long flowy dress looked to be softer than silk. Her face was the most distraught, a worried look woven into her face. One hand on her head as she sank her head towards the table. With every word the others spoke it was as if she winced in pain, bracing for an impact that never seemed to land. Silence filled the room momentarily and she looked up to find all the elves staring at her. She panicked as she tried to readjust herself. As she prepared to speak a younger elf burst through the door, catching everyone’s attention. The younger began to speak startling the older elves their mouths became agape as the elf spoke. The elf at the end of the table broke into tears. She had both hands on her head as she began murmuring incoherently, the others trying to calm her. Despite her reaction however, the young elf continued. The more he spoke the more she freaked out. She suddenly stood up and frantically began looking around the room before her eyes settled on the large green glass. The young elf stopped talking immediately, as the others looked at each other before realizing what she was going to do. She sprinted full speed towards the glass, escape right in front of her. She closed her eyes and jumped but the sound of the glass shattering never reached her ears. She felt a force she wasn’t expecting and opened her eyes only to find herself under one of the other elves, his face ghostly white as if he himself tried jumping out the window. The elf, with reality once again clear, began to yell, hands on her hand once more. She tried to push the elf out of the way and once again locked eyes with the window, but she never made it off the ground. Elves in armor came in, and while holding the arms of the elf, took her away. She yelled as she was removed from the room yet none of the other elves dared to look at her. The young elf began to speak once more but the crippling weight of the news was enough to crush the remaining elves. They hung their heads in fear, afraid of what to do if the monsters that desecrated their forest returned. One by one the elves began to leave the room; they exchanged goodbyes as if they’d never return.

33rd of Skia, 997th Year of The Era of Creation

            Silence echoed in a golden space, seemingly going on forever. Then a human entered, adorned in golden jewelry and a flowing white robe. They knelt with no set direction and spoke, “Lord Sanctus, please forgive me for disturbing you with our mortal issues however the advance of the Mad God Chaos is a greater threat than we can handle. Her forces know no fear, and show no weakness, their undying bodies even allow them to repel our greatest attacks. There are even reports of nonels on the other continent causing casualties to even the great dragonewts. I fear that if you do not save us our lives will become forfeit.” A voice boomed in response from all directions, “Nay, you were right to come to me. The actions of my sister are beyond acceptable. It is clear that we must get involved personally to deal with this arrogant mistake. Inform all you can, the Gods will assist the races, we will eliminate the threat that is Chaos and return this beautiful world to peace, as Father intended.” The voice was direct and flat, and yet energy surged through the room when Chaos was mentioned. The human bowed deeply before exiting the space. The world around the human was gray with lengthy stones lined the walls. A hooded figure dressed in similar attire approached the human. His voice quivered as he spoke, eyes locked to the ground as if he was afraid of what he’d see. The human placed his hand on his shoulder and spoke to him, his voice gentle like a soothing melody, the fear left the figure’s body. The figure looked up at the human tears in his eyes and a smile growing across his face. He quickly turned around and ran rushing to spread the news. The human heard cheers erupt in the building as people ran around, tears streaming down their faces praising the gods. Hope seemed to fill the air as bells began to ring. The streets, which had become desolate and depressing, erupted in excitement with children running around. It was as if the war had already ended. Life returned to the kingdom in full force. The fear suffocating all seemed to had loosened its grip, making way for hope and a chance to rebuild. Before long, the entire city was swept into the commotion. Cries of joy and hearty laughter could be heard for the first time in weeks, as the city seemed to glow with peace of mind. Happiness once more filled their hearts.

25th Polemos, 997th Year of The Era of Creation

            The sounds of fire roared, along with the ring of steel being beaten into shape. Stout men and women, dwarves, were hard at work in the forge, seemingly aglow with the furnaces ablaze. The sounds of deep grunts were plentiful with glowing orange rods of steel were formed into incredible blades. Due to their industrial nature the dwarves became the heart of weapon production, and metal work in general. The blades the dwarves were crafting were incredible enough to be called works of art, yet their durability was second to none. Sharp enough to slice through the body of a nonel like paper and sturdy enough to survive a hit from a god. Due to their home in the mountains, they were lucky enough to escape the majority of the fighting. Mining and metalwork making up the majority of a dwarf’s path, however, not even the dwarves escaped the nonel hordes. For dwarves unlucky enough to find themselves opposing a nonel death was considered all but certain. Although their weapons were incredible they could not replace skill or practice. Dwarven muscles trained to mold metal as if it were clay but their short stature and limited reach made them ineffective at combat, many dwarves never even considered combat, even the dwarven army was relatively ineffective typically using spears and pikes as weapons of choice. While effective against races where puncture wounds could prove fatal against the undying nonels any attacks that did not dismember them were worthless. For the dwarves with copious amounts of mana the best it could offer them would be a better life, being able to more effectively work with metal. Despite mounting fears of nonels marching on the capital, dwarves remain diligent in their metal work. As the threat of nonels rise around the world the dwarves have remained strong, metal has essentially become the blood of the dwarven people. While the dwarves were slaving over the anvils a delivery of ore and beer arrived. Cheers erupted in the forge as the dwarves chugged a mug of beer before grabbing a handful of ore. For the dwarves with magic they formed the ore into balls before adding it to the kiln while the others began cleaning off the extra dirt and minerals. Once again the forge flared to life as the ripping hot fires burned blue in their intensity. The searing heat filling the forge becoming so intense that dwarves even began fainting. However, those who remain conscious remained hard at work pushing themselves past their limits. The dwarves never faltered, their determination stronger than any steel and their skills sharper that any blade. Failure was not an option and no matter the challenge, no matter the sacrifice, they would push forward to a brighter tomorrow. Survival was the only path left for the dwarves and they would claim it.

14th of Fotia, 997th Year of The Era of Creation

            In a clearing in the swamps of northern Terra a lone lizardman, armored in a radiant azure scale-plated armor. He stood on tentacles made of jade green water, with an extra pair of arms using that same vibrant water granting him the ability to wield four swords simultaneously. The swords were curved like scimitars, with blades the length of his legs. This lizardman was surrounded on all sides by a horde of nonels, encroaching ever so slowly as a pile of corpses began to grow. His four beautiful blades sliced through the nonels as he moved with grace. His moves so perfect, with each move leading to the next it was as if he was reading the minds of the horde. His tentacle legs helping him move in ways no swordsmen could match the powerful moves of his swords. He was covered in the blood of hundreds of nonels, but no matter how many he cut down their numbers never seemed to thin. Regardless a determined look remain in his eyes, as if he saw past the horde and was slaying all that approached him to reach his goal. As he continued massacring invading nonels a larger one appeared. A creature known as a savage nonel, known to be animalistic in nature unlike the mindless wrath of nonels. This savage nonel was large, towering over the horizon as it slowly approached. It walked on all fours with a long, slender body, with a long flowy tail flickering in the wind. Spines ran the length of its back, the were jagged and rough, the body itself scaly acting as a natural armor. When the lizardman’s eyes landed on the savage nonel a smile carved itself into his face. He began to charge the savage nonel, balls of jade water imprisoning nonels as he passed by. Right before he reached the savage nonel 4 jade tentacles erupted from the ground, their movements flowy and free. Those along with the imprisoning balls of water dealt with the surrounding nonels as the lizardman began his assault on the savage nonel. His first attack was quick and decisive, as he slashed through the creatures front legs sending it toppling down. The lizardman went to complete his kill when the beast shot up. It bellowed a roar so great it disrupted the lizardman’s magic. His tentacle legs trembled from the shockwaves of the roar alone. The savage nonel swung his tail towards the lizardman, who braced for impact using his swords. The impact was so heavy the lizardmen felt his bones splinter. The impact sent him flying, landing on a large tree. Blood poured from his agape mouth as he reeled from the shock. Despite the damage once again tentacles formed around his legs. He stood up for one final offensive. His once jade green water magic was now clouded by blood, with the magic becoming a dark brownish yellow. The light visibly faded from his eyes as he moved towards the savage nonel once more. His arms lagged behind, still recovering from the previous attack and so he used magic arms once more, they were similarly clouded. This time he went for the beasts head and channeled a weapon much greater than before. A great sword appeared in his hands and using all the force he could muster slammed it down overhead cutting straight through the savage nonels head. Once more the creature collapsed to the ground, blood spilling out of its head and yet its arms remained in motion. It grabbed the lizardman, grip squeezing even more blood out of the lizardman, before slamming him into the ground. It once again stood, forcing its head back together before biting the lizardman. Its mouth on his midsection, it bit down cutting the lizardman in half. The lizardman let out a cry as his body split before his tentacles and arms dissipated. The savage nonel approached to crush his head but an explosion of water erupted from the lizardman swallowing the beast whole. A ball appeared around the beast which began to shrink crushing the savage nonel causing a shower of purple blood and viscera. The lizardman with his dying breaths let out a hearty laugh before coughing up blood. His eyes locked with the sky as nonels began to surround him. As the light faded from his eyes a smile once again carved itself into his face.

28th of Magro, 997th Year of The Era of Creation

            Deep in a great forest, with trees that seemed to pierce the heavens, demons lurked in the shadows. They laid in wait for any nonels which they would dispatch without mercy. Any nonels that did appear had their shadows captured, rending them immobile, where they would be chopped to pieces by the demon’s dark magic. The squads of demons were few, usually ranging about 20 demons. Despite that their nonel hunting abilities were incredible, their knack for taking complete advantage of the forest led them to have the fewest casualties of the races. Their unique magic also helped them attack in ways not possible. Shadow magic not being used directly as a weapon in combat seemingly led them to fighting styles that are more guerilla in nature, allowing them to easily dispatch forces larger than their own. Demons also live in a unique social structure, living in tribes rather than a united kingdom, as such ranks such as nobility didn’t exist, meaning that those with high amounts of mana mingled and even had children with those with lower mana, creating a higher than average level of mana among demons. Shadow magic is also incredible malleable making it easier to learn for younger members of their race. This was at least the case for the demons on the western continent Terra, on Senex, the eastern continent, demons lived in a more common kingdom and were much more separated based on mana levels. Most of the ground was covered in shadows, from the great trees, and the blood of nonels. If any stronger nonels appeared the squads would converge to conquer the foe together, their teamwork proving impeccable, capable of crushing all nonels that entered the forest. Unlike the other races the demons of the western continent seemed as if their lives were relatively unaffected by the invasion of nonels, even the dragonewts, known as indominable warriors, and the lizardmen known for their legendary warrior, could barely handle the weight of a nonel attack. The separate tribes have been working closer than usual, experiencing many things and yet their cooperation and teamwork would lead you to believe that they have been living side by side their whole lives. The chiefs of each tribe would have meetings reporting how the fighting has been progressing. Chiefs, who have traditionally regarded each other as bitter rivals, have been effectively working together adopting strategies from each other including the guerilla fighting style. The average nonel hunting squad strategy consist of four steps. First, have five to ten members of the squad lock the nonels shadows in place, having more people working to secure them lowers the risk of nonels escaping. Second, once contained begin eviscerating the nonels to prevent them from regenerating, nonels lack cores so the only way to ensure their deaths is to cause damage too great for them to heal. Third, lure more nonels, either by using decoys or the corpses of other nonels, this prevents them from catching the squads off guard. Four, lastly prepare to begin the assault once more, making sure all magical weapons are summoned. These four steps have proven to work near flawlessly against nonels, though special protocols are enacted for nonel sins, larger versions of regular nonels, or savage nonels. Despite their great record against nonels the demons have remained nebulous about their abilities, as if they fear of a greater enemy.

1st of Thanatos, 1st Year of The Post Patron War Era

            It was a silent day, as if the sky itself waited with bated breath as the vessels of the Patron Gods descended. One by one, avatars of these great beings appeared on Skotadi ready to finally vanquish the threat that is the Mad God Chaos. These vessels were beaming with mana, each having a slight glow. From a glance it could be believed that these vessels were members of the races however upon closer inspection their magnificence was clear. The vessels were much to intricate to be of natural origin, their forms being delicately crafted by incredible hands. Though their vessels were not as strong they allowed for much more precise actions by the Patron Gods, being able to more directly interact with the environment itself. Vessels also had the ability to use the mana in the air, allowing them to use the vessel to its full power without fear of it depleting its mana reserves. The Gods were constantly creating mana, similar to nuclear fusion stars undergo, however their vessels lacked that ability. The Gods, having heard the pleas of the races deemed it time to put an end to Chaos’ rampage. Many plans were thought of in terms of dealing with Chaos, granting the races a person capable of creating their own mana, a person with all of their blessings, or even vessels of their own, however it was decided that the only force strong enough to deal with a rebelling God is another God. Her fate was decided to be permanently be sealed in the heart of Skotadi, serving as a warning to any future Gods yet to be born, and while many of the races wished to see her destroyed for her actions their devotion to the Patron Gods led them to accept the decision. The Patron Gods created a sealing spell, so strong that they would have to work together to completely undo the sealing. It was named Trinitas Sealing, as it came from the trinity of the Patron Gods. Due to its power a mana dead zone would be created after its use lasting for centuries. This zone would become devoid of life and incredibly dangerous for any living being and as such the area was chosen carefully. The site the spell was used would also stand as a memorial, for the lives lost during Chaos’ rebellion. It was decided that the best location would be the Grand Desert of Senex, located in the middle of the eastern continent. Due to its harsh conditions the only living creatures there were the Orcs, and even they remained in a coastal location unable to bare the inhospitable desert for long periods. The only question was how to lure Chaos to desert. Due to the nature of her birth Chaos was able to manifest a physical form on Skotadi without needing a vessel, this meant that if they could convince her to show up sealing Chaos in her godly form wouldn’t be a long process. The Patron Gods traveled to the center of the Grand Desert and pleaded Chaos to meet with them, claiming they wish to seek peace. Chaos was still young and naïve, believing her siblings grew tired of the loss of life she appeared. Chaos was said to be rather receptive to the idea of peace, being so forward as to halt the assault of the nonel hordes during this day. The Patron Gods seized the moment to seal Chaos, using the mana in the air to create a seal so strong that Mavros himself would have to undo it. The dead zone was so large that the eastern half of the Grand Desert became uncrossable, the dead zone draining the mana of all who enter so quickly that death was certain with in thirty minutes. Chaos was enraged, her siblings had betrayed her once more, they even began to paint her as a villain. A monster who delighted in the deaths of mortals. Her rage grew so strong children would be born with a blessing of Chaos magic. As the races feared her claiming the children as vessels they would be put to death. This practice went on for four thousand years, leading us to today.

Chapter 1: A Cursed Child

            It was a beautiful day in the kingdom of Caelum, a human nation. In a hospital in the city of Lux a woman laid in bed preparing to give birth. “Magnus dear, I believe it is almost time. Our bundle of joy will soon enter the world.” The woman said, her skin caramel and her eyes a light lavender. She was dressed in a gown covered in a plush blanket, with doctors and nurses running around. Magnus, a dark skinned man of large stature, looked the woman in the eyes, “That’s wonderful news Simul. Have you thought of a name? As a Cassius my family is filled with strong mages, the child’s name will likely go down in history so a strong name is all but required.” Simul smiled and opened her mouth to respond but instead a yelp escaped her lips instead. “I-I think the child is here!” she exclaimed her breathing becoming labored. A doctor ran over, “It’s going to be alright madam. The first thing I need you to do is spread your legs and breath deep for me. A nurse will cast a spell to help ease the pain but unfortunately we cannot complete erase it.” She said standing at the edge of the bed. A nurse ran over an light began to glow around her hands, Simul sighed in relief as most of the pain instantly vanished. She began to rhythmically breath based on the doctors orders and spread her legs. Although the pain was being eased it felt as it if had increased tenfold as Simul began to scream. “I know it hurts madam but you need to continue the breathing. We are going to be working together for a while so tell me about yourself, don’t focus on the pain.” The doctor said. “My name is Simul and I was a solider in the Caelum Holy Army for a decade.” Simul said, occasionally gasping for air or moaning in pain. Magnus held Simul’s hand and attempted to help her with the breathing. The doctor continued to distract Simul for 3 hours before yelling out for a second nurse. “I need a second nurse! Madam Simul is crowning!” Simul’s screams became more intense as she entered the second stage of labor. “Don’t worry Madam, a second nurse is on the way, she’s going to cast more magic but now comes the hard part. I need you to breath and push!” The doctor said to Simul, providing an example with the breathing. Magnus groaned lightly as Simul’s grip of his hand grew tighter. Simul began to follow the doctors breathing and began pushing. 45 minutes later the doctor began to yell once more, this time directly to Simul, “We are almost there. I need you to do one more big push alright Madam?” Simul nodded and breathed deeply, she screamed as she pushed. She felt the pain rush from her body as the doctor spoke, “Congratulations! We have a healthy baby boy!” As the doctor finished her sentence, a shiver was sent down the spines of all who were in the room. The doctor handed Simul the baby before backing away, a horrified look locked on her face. She began to head towards the door before Magnus stopped her. “Hold it.”, a cold look on his face as he spoke, “Simul, I want you to know I truly loved you. You three come with me, if you tell anyone that I was here, or worse that I am related to that cursed child, I swear that the Cassius family will have you put down, do you understand?” The doctor and nurses furiously nodded in agreement before running out the room. Magnus began to leave as well before being stopped by Simul. “Magnus! This is our child, you don’t know for sure do you? How could you abandon him? Abandon us! What about the life together you promised me?” She cried, tears rolling down her face. He turned to face her but the cold dead look his eyes sent shivers down her spine. “You common piece of trash dare to utter my name. Though I don’t know who you are I can tell when a child is cursed. I am going to gather the guards, you and that creature are to be dealt with here and now.” He turned once more and exited the room. Simul broke down, “How did this happen? We were supposed to be a family. So why? Have you abandoned us Sanctus?”, staring into the sky as she spoke. She heard the clattering of armor not far outside the room and attempted to stand. She took the blanket she had been given and swaddled her newborn son. She swung her feet off the bed and placed them on the floor. She felt her legs unprepared to support her weight once more but decided to try and stand regardless. She yelped as she fell backwards. She used the magic spell ‘Shot’ to temporarily give her legs the boost they needed and attempted to stand once more. Though unsteady Simul was once again able to stand. She headed towards a window, slowly wobbling and began to try and get out. The clattering of armor got louder as she struggled to fit herself through the window. Just as the armored guards entered the room she was able to slip out onto a nearby roof. She looked for a safe way down and found a nearby rooftop garden. She used the magic spell ‘Weapon Creation’ to create daggers to stick into the wall as she slowly descended from the roof. As she entered the alleyway below the roof garden Simul collapsed. Her mind was racing as the sun began to set in Lux. Where would she go? Is the city even safe anymore, and if it isn’t were else could she hide? As her head swirled with thoughts she looked down at her newborn baby, surprisingly sleeping and steeled her resolve. Though she wasn’t sure how yet she would escape Lux tonight and seek refuge outside of Caelum.

            Simul checked her surroundings as she stood up and listened for any guards. She headed towards the main street and checked for guards once more as she exited the alleyway. Simul knew her best chance at escape was at night when the guards were at their lowest number. She casted the spell ‘Light’ creating a ball of light. The light awoke the baby who began to cry. She began to gently rock the baby as she began leaving the area. Simul headed towards the eastern exit of Lux and stopped just short of it. There were two guards and the city gate had closed for the night, making it impossible to simply run by. Simul had access to a large range of magic spells due to her time as a solider however she specialized in combat magic, which wasn’t an option with her son. She could only use low ranking utility magic spells and since the gate was closed she’d have to find some other way out. She briefly considered using weapon creation to scale the wall but decided it was too tall to risk climbing. She settled on using the spell ‘Field’ which creates a dome that can protect her from damage as she ran past the guards. The only issue was the closed gate but she was confident she could cut through it. She dispelled the light spell and used field and weapon creation. She created a long axe and began to run towards the gate. She was hoping to catch the guards by surprise giving her time to escape without them being able to properly react but her son began to cry from the jostling of her running. The guards turned and used the spell light before shouting to stop, “Hey! Madam I don’t know where your going but the gate is closed. And combat magic is not allowed in the city, especially after dark. Go home!” The guard on the left said. Simul did not faulter however, as she continued to run full speed ahead. “Hey! Come any closer and we have to stop you by force. We don’t want to hurt you or your baby so please come back tomorrow in the morning.” The guard on the right said casting weapon creation. The guard on the left grabbed his sheathed sword and prepared himself. Simul continued to run, preparing to swing as neared the guards and the gate. Both guards yelled as they began to swing in turn only to be repelled by the field spell. Simul cleaved through the gate and continued running. She dispelled the axe and held her son close to her chest. The guards yelled more but she could no longer hear them as she continued to run, following the road. Simul continued to run for ten minutes before sitting down. She once again casted light and listening out for guards chasing her from Lux. She held her son and spoke to him. “I don’t know where but we are going somewhere we can be happy. So you can grow up like the normal boy you are and no one will call you cursed.” The baby laughed at her, his gentle laughs bringing a smile to her face. She turned towards the forest before heading in. She kept field casted as she prepared a place to sleep, she was exhausted and knew a long journey awaited her. Simul awoke to sunlight shining through the forest and sounds of people travelling along the road. She prepared herself and her child to continue their journey. She dispelled field and light, then waited to no one to be around before leaving the forest. She continued her journey thinking of a destination. Due to her departure east two options presented themselves. The mixed kingdom of Yafnit, ruled by elves but it accepts those of all races, pledging themselves to the elven god Silva in name only. Second was the demons of the Celetic forest. They lived in tribes and usually ignored outsiders. Both nations were a months journey away and neither guaranteed safety. Simul decided to head towards the demons, hoping that she’d be able to create a home in the forest without any issues. She began heading towards the Celetic forest, her son bundled to her and began her journey.

            One month passed as Simul trekked to the Celetic forest. The journey has been rough but made easier by her son, whose development has begun faster than she expected. Though he cannot walk yet he has already begun crawling on his own. They neared the entrance to the forest, the boy laughing as he watches birds fly around, Simul preparing a field spell just in case. She grabs the boy and enters the forest, but as she walks she notices its too quiet. Though she sees no one she feels as if she’s being watched from all angles. She attempts to ignore and continues walking until she suddenly stops. She attempts to move her leg which has frozen in place but is unable to. She holds the boy close as she uses weapon creation to create a short sword. She hears murmurs as she looks around, still seeing no one, but cannot understand them. She recognizes the language as Umb, the language of demons, and speaks out. “We come in peace. Please I ask of you to ignore our passing we simply wish to find a place to call home.” The boy looks at Simul with a quizzical look before looking out and pointing at a demon. The demon approaches Simul, towering over her in height, the demon’s dark skin blending in perfectly with the shadows, with small dark gray horns emerging from its head. “Human, I am sure you’re aware but that child is cursed. His mana is unmistakable as Chaos Blessed. So why do you travel with him?” She spoke, her deep voice ringing in Simul’s core. “Be-because he is my son! I won’t let harm come to this child. I’m sure he’ll grow to be a normal boy so please, please let us pass. I came here because I heard demons typically ignore outsiders, so why let us leave.” She pleaded with the demon, tears forming in her eyes. “Human, its impossible to ignore the presence of a cursed child. And now its impossible to ignore what you said. I understand attachment to ones child but this child is not normal. He will grow and worship Chaos, in the worst case she may even use his body as a vessel, causing uncontrolled havoc and pain around the world.” She spoke her tone cold as ice. “No this boy isn’t like that. He’s a sweet child who would never attempt to take the lives of others!” Simul yelled in retaliation. The demon looked at Simul with pity, “How old is the child?” Simul’s face showed her surprise, “He is only a month old.” The demon’s face shifted from pity to concern. “A month and he’s already grown this much. Human do you not realize what this means? She truly does plan on using him as a vessel! The only option is to eliminate the child now before its too late!” The demon said using weapon creation to create a dagger. The boy tilted his head at the demon before his eyes fixated on her dagger. Simul, still unable to move, attempted to cover the boy. “No! Please, he’s all I have left, I couldn’t go on without him!” she shouted. As she finished speaking a chill ran down her spine, she turned to the boy only to see him glowing with a strange purple energy. “No, its too late!” The demon said before lunging towards the boy. The boy opened his mouth yet his voice wasn’t the one that escaped. “Hoh? I finally return and you wish to take my body from me?” A feminine voice boomed from the boy. He lifted his hand and a shockwave flew away from him blasting the demon away. “Rejoice Human! You’ve done an excellent job protecting my vessel as he developed. Hahaha.” The voice boomed once more. Simul screamed before shouting, “Who are you? Where is my child!?” The boy turned and faced Simul and spoke once more “Ah the boy? He’s still there but this body is no longer his. Skotadi brace yourself. The God of Disorder has returned, this time all will worship Chaos!” The voice bellowed, become even louder. The demon had returned and shouted, “Human hurry this way, more demons are on the way but we will not be able to protect you from there.” She said a worried look painted across her face. She motioned Simul towards her yet Simul didn’t move. “That is my son, no one, God or not, can take him away from me! Give him back Mad God.” The boy frowned, “Tsk, it seems the races haven’t dropped that name despite my absence. Human I believed you to be a follower of mine and yet you claim that this child is yours. Did you not protect my vessel for my grand return?” Chaos spoke her eyes locked on Simul. Simul’s brow furrowed as she shook her head, “My child’s body belongs to none but him. I protected him because he is my son!” She yelled. Chaos laughed, “Hahahaha, you mortals remained interesting in absence apparently. This child of yours has fallen under my control, why would I give him back so soon. As long as I am sealed I must make use of what I can get my hands on. Now since you still believe this child is yours, show me your strength, a weak human clearly cannot try and lay claim to the belonging of the Gods now can they?” Chaos said as the boys body began to float. Simul tried to run towards the boy but was grabbed by demons and dragged away. “Let me go, please you cannot leave him like this. I have to save my child!” She shouted. The demon from earlier returned, “You need to back up, whatever she is about to do it won’t be good. Should it come down to fighting you’d only get in the way with how you are now. Someone lock her shadow, this might get nasty.” A demon nodded before Simul once again felt her legs frozen. As her movement was locked she sees portals form in the air surrounding Chaos. Nonels begin to spill out of the portals in droves and within seconds hundreds of nonels appeared. “Hahaha, lets see you mortals handle these.” The nonels let out a foul cry before charging towards a gathering force of demons. Off in the distance Simul heard more demons yelling in Umb seeing a force numbering 75 arriving preparing to fight the unexpected nonel threat. The demons used shadow magic to lock as many nonels in place as they could before cutting them down, however, their usual tactics wouldn’t work, more nonels poured in from the portal and began to climb over their still allies. Casualties began to rise as the nonels began to push towards the grouped-up demons keeping nonels still. Simul yelled out, “Chaos stop this, can’t you see the suffering your causing?” tears streaming from her face, still unable to move. “Hahaha, foolish human. What do you not understand? Your lives are tools, and what do you do with a tool that isn’t functioning properly other than dispose of it?” She said, her voice flat. “We aren’t tools!” the demon from earlier shouted before charging into the nonel horde with a few other demons. Chaos began to laugh as they were smothered by nonels however, the demons roared out in victory as they pushed back the nonels, sending them flying. “Hoh, so it seems some of you have skill, how interesting. How about you join me instead of losing your lives in such a meaningless place? I’ll even grant you powers beyond your imagination.” Chaos spoke, extending the boy’s hand. “Ha, as if we’d ever consider that! Once we crush you we’ll be lauded as heroes, who needs the power of some dead god?” She shouted in response. Chaos’ brow furrowed as a frown appeared on her face. “The arrogance of mortals. To think you have any right to call me a dead god, nay to believe you even have a chance of defeating me. Fine, I’ll show you the might of a ‘dead god’ but know that no mercy will be granted to you, nor your race.” The boy’s body flew higher in the air before the portals combined. Silence was in the air as the demons waited with baited breath, before the nonels suddenly returned to the portal, as if sucked in. “Haha, your great plan was to get rid of those monsters?” The demon taunted Chaos. Her face of triumph soon turned to terror as a massive hand exploded out of the portal. It began to drag itself, being joined by a second massive hand. Simul cried out once more, “Chaos! You can’t do this. Do you truly feel no pain for the suffering you’re causing? Does a god as great as you really fail to feel empathy?” Chaos froze for a moment as the massive monster continued to escape the confines of the portal. “Mortal, do not dare to presume my abilities. Whether I feel pity for you lower life forms is not of any importance.” She said. Her voice trembling lightly as she evaded eye contact with Simul. “What else am I to do? You claimed my child’s body as your own and are using it for such horrific acts! It is as if you truly feel nothing, do you not care of the pain you cause?” Simul yelled. Chaos winced in response, the beast’s contorted face now emerging, before responding. “Human, you have no clue of the pain I’ve experienced, I was betrayed and have been sealed by my siblings for 4 thousand years. Do you understand the nightmare that was my existence, unable to do anything but sit there and watch, the world slowly forgetting me.” Simul looked at Chaos, once more trying to move but finding this time she actually was able. Simul began to run towards Chaos, “Human! Where are you going, do you not see that monster?” the demon yelled, “Chaos, I cannot compare to your pain but that doesn’t mean you have to cause more. Please give me my son, there must be a better way to regain what you’ve lost. If you understand my feelings please don’t take him from me.” Simul shouted, now coming face to face with the emerging nonel. Chaos froze once more, she clenched her fist, the nonel being pulled into the portal slowly as she began to speak. “Mortal, you are very interesting. Even in the presence of a god you refuse to back down. I cannot give up a vessel I’ve fought so hard for so easily however. Let us make a deal, I shall return the child’s body and leave him to you. However I will return in 10 years time, his body should be fairly developed by then, and I will find out if your feelings are true. If this boy can show love to all of Skotadi’s life then I will accept my defeat, relinquishing my control, however, if you fail you and this child will help me achieve my goal and claim rule over this world.” Chaos said as the boy’s body returned to the ground. Simul spoke without hesitation, “Chaos I will prove you wrong. I accept.” Her face serious as she held her son. “Haha, you truly are interesting. Human I will return.” Chaos said, an energy leaving the boy as her voice faded. The boy’s body slumped in Simul’s arms. She held him close and said “I’ll never lose you like that again. I wanted to do this under better circumstances but your name will be Novis. ‘New life’ in Ianua, so grow strong and impact many people and lead them to their new lives Novis.” A tear streaming down her face as she spoke.

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            The demon from earlier approached Simul. “Are you sure about what you’ve done? A deal with Chaos is not something you can simply come back from. You’ll likely make lots of enemies anywhere you go.” She said. Simul looked at her Novis in her arms tight, “I will never give up my son, the entire world could come after me and I will fight still my dying breath.” Her face as serious as when she spoke to Chaos. “Ah well I won’t stop you if your that determined. There is one issue, we cannot let you stay in this forest any longer, but due to your deal with Chaos we cannot just kill you. Human head for Impling Forest, the journey is that of 3 to 4 months, there we can promise you to be unbothered. Of course you won’t be making this journey alone, two demons will accompany you and report back if anything of importance happen.” She said. Simul’s face filled with shock, “Why would you go so far to help? I don’t understand.” The demon shook her head, “Don’t misunderstand, I don’t believe your doing the right thing but now that you’ve made a deal with Chaos we have to keep an eye on you. Plus no demon here feels safe with you around. Though we won’t tell the other nations who we will tell them about this deal.” Simul smiled, “Thank you. I appreciate your help, even if you don’t agree.” The demon smirked and nodded before meeting with other demons. Though there had been deaths Chaos’ plan to release the larger nonel resulted in less deaths, however, demons were watching Simul and Novis with hatred in their eyes. After 30 minutes or so the demon returned with two larger demons accompanying her. “Human, this is Rideat and Cogitare. They have volunteered to go with you to Impling Forest.” She said motioning for them to introduce themselves. “Hi, names Rideat, you’ve got to tell me what’s going on with you and that kid.” Rideat spoke, his voice cheery. “Hello, I am Cogitare, I too am interested, though more so in the child. I look forward to journeying with you two.” Cogitare said, rather emotionless as he spoke. “Hello, my name is Simul. This is my son Novis, it is very nice to meet you two. I appreciate your willingness to join us on our journey.” Simul said smiling. “Human you will be spending the night here though, the chiefs would feel much better observing the child before we send you off, it’ll also give us time to get you things you’d need. Food, clothing, the essentials is all.” The demon from earlier spoke. Simul nodded and shouted before she departed, “What is your name? I must properly thank you one day for all you’ve done for me and Novis.” She smiled at Simul before turning around, “The name’s Traska, but don’t rush to thank me.” She headed off towards the forest before vanishing. Cogitare spoke up, “Simul, I believe it is time we get some rest as well. I’m sure that was draining for you and Novis.” As he pointed to a shelter set up for them. Simul, holding Novis, followed Cogitare and Rideat as they headed towards the shelter. It was not much more than a tent, though it was relatively spacious. Simul took a spot near the entrance of the shelter while Cogitare and Rideat took spots closer to the back of the shelter. Simul held Novis close, singing him to sleep before laying down. Simul closed her eyes thinking about the journey ahead of her and beyond. “Can I really protect Novis? Can I trust Cogitare and Rideat?” she thought as she laid there. Eventually Simul drifted to sleep.

            Simul awoke the next morning to find Novis hugging her and Cogitare and Rideat nowhere to be found. She grabbed Novis and exited the shelter to find them sitting around a campfire. “Ah, morning Simul, we decided to get some breakfast started before we left. Can’t travel on a empty stomach right?” Rideat said, absolutely brimming with energy. Simul, clearly stunned, nodded before taking a seat next to the fire. Novis woke up not long after in Simul’s arms. She fed him and spent time talking to him as the food cooked. Cogitare spoke up as Rideat began serving up the food. “So Simul if you do not mind me asking what is your story?” his quizzical tone clear as day. Simul whinced as she prepared to answer, she explained how Novis and her ended up in the Celetic Forest, Rideat and Cogitare entranced as she spoke. Cogitare, while avoiding eye contact spoke, “I am so sorry to hear that.” Rideat nodding in agreement, “You must be pretty strong to make it here.” Simul smiled at their responses, “Thank you, I’m just glad that Novis will finally be able to grow up.” Novis turned to face Simul, a smile beaming on his face. They finished breakfast in silence and began to clean up. “How difficult would you say the journey to the Impling Forest will be?” Simul asked. Rideat smirked before responding, “Don’t worry! You’ve got one of this forest’s strongest demons here. I have the second highest nonel kill count in forest history!” Cogitare rolled his eyes, “That’s because you like to get into unnecessary fights, how many times have you almost been killed?” Rideat ignored him striking a pose. Cogitare groaned before answering Simul’s question “The journey itself should be relatively safe, it will be slow though that’s for sure.” Simul nodded as they finished cleaning. Simul found the essentials Traska promised them and grabbed Novis and hers packs. Cogitare and Rideat followed suit before departing off.

            As they journeyed Novis continued to rapidly grow. Novis learned lots from Simul and Cogitare, playing lots with Rideat heading towards Impling Forest. Novis began walking a month and a half into their journey and speaking at 2 months. Simul was stunned by Novis’ growth, often calling him an incredible boy, despite his rapid growth however Novis showed no talent in magic. Though blessing aren’t granted until the age of 18 Novis was blessed by Chaos at birth, meaning he should have had a head start in terms of mana control, especially considering the effect it has had on his physical and mental growth up to now. Simul tried to not let it bother her though Cogitare was clearly interested in learning more. Rideat would often tell Simul that Novis is also getting stronger just about every day, able to lift heavier and heavier things. Despite the anomality that is Novis though their journey continued. After 4 months of traveling the group found themselves in a large clearing with a forest in front of them. The trees in the forest were even taller than the trees of Celetic, the tips of these trees not even visible from the ground. “Ah so we’ve made it huh.” Rideat said his hands on his hips. Cogitare lightly bumps Rideat, “But our journey still hasn’t ended. Let’s go, I would like to find a place to settle before nightfall.” Rideat sticks his tongue out at Cogitare but continues on. Novis and Simul stand there in awe looking at the massive trees. “Incredible, isn’t Novis sweetheart?” Simul says to Novis. “Yes!” Novis excitedly says jumping as he speaks. Simul grabs Novis’ hand and catches up with Cogitare and Rideat. The group sets up tents for the night before delegating tasks. Simul prepares a campfire while Rideat goes to gather food. Cogitare teaches Novis more about Skotadi in the meantime. “Novis, do you remember what I told you about the continents?” He asked. Novis nodded, “We’re on Terra, Senex is far, and theres islands in the middle.” He proudly responded, his words slightly slurring. “Good job, that’s correct Novis!” Cogitare says cracking a smile. Novis smugly chuckles in response before running to Simul. “Mommy, mommy, I got the question right!” He said hugging her leg. She looked down at Novis and smiled, “Good job. You really are an incredible boy!” She hugged him back as she spoke. Rideat soon returned, having successfully hunted 2 rabbits, while finding some berries. The group made a stew, eating it as the sun set on the horizon. After finished the food they cleaned up and headed to bed. First Novis, then Simul, followed by Cogitare and Rideat. Novis wakes up to the feeling of intense shaking. He opens his eyes but doesn’t see any sunlight. As he looks up he sees Cogitare carrying him in the moonlit. Novis goes to open his mouth but winces in pain as he notices blood coming from his forehead. He begins to cry, catching Cogitare’s attention. “Novis your awake. Now listen to me, I am going to take you to Simul, she’s going to make you feel all better ok, then I am going back to Rideat and we’ll meet up with you two alright?” He said, visibly shaken. “Where’s Rideat?” Novis asked looking around. Cogitare closed his eyes before speaking, “Alright then lets go, Simul’s waiting.” Novis began kicking as Cogitare began running once more. “Where’s Rideat? Where’s Rideat!?” his cries becoming screams. Cogitare stopped once more. “Novis, he’s fine but he’s busy. He needs help but we have to get you to Simul first. Do you understand?” his eyes looking through Novis as he spoke. Novis shook his head, “It makes no sense. I wanna help too!” Novis shouted trying to push himself from Cogitare’s grasp. “No Novis! I can’t let you get hurt, so you are going to Simul.” Cogitare shouted back. Novis began to kick and scream louder, eventually worming his way out of Cogitare’s grasp. Cogitare shouted “Novis where are you going? There is nothing you can do as hurt as you are, you have to come with me.” Novis didn’t stop to listen, he began running as soon as he stood in the opposite direction. Cogitare ran after him begging him to stop. Novis shouted for Rideat as he ran before seeing a strange creature in the forest. It was large with three arms, an extra one emerging from its torso. It had the head of a lizardman but the body of an orc, with legs of a dwarf. Novis froze in his tracks as the monster turned towards him, Cogitare continued running, charging the nonel with a short sword he had grabbed from his pack. Novis shouted, “Cogitare!” but Cogitare never answered. Novis returned to looking for Rideat hoping he’d be able to help. Novis began searching, the ground painted red as if leading to a spot. As he searched he heard Simul shouting out for them, “Novis! Cogitare! Rideat! Anyone! Where did you go, it isn’t safe here we must continue!” but Novis didn’t respond. Novis followed the trail to find a corpse, it was Rideat. Novis ran towards him, tears streaming down his face as he began shaking Rideat. “Wake up! Wake up!” Novis shouted. Rideat didn’t respond however and as all seemed lost Novis felt his mana flare. As if by instinct he placed both hands on Rideat and waited with baited breath as the mana flowed into Rideat’s lifeless body. Novis saw everything suddenly go black. “A child?” Novis heard, a collection of voices speaking together, “How could a child use this magic?” Novis opened his mouth but his voice did not come out. “Child, you are aware that this demon is dead correct? Yet here you still are. His soul has already left.” The voices sounding quizzical. Novis once more opened his mouth still to no aval. “Wait. This spell, can it be? But a mortal doing it, and a human child at that. It is such a gentle use of the spell and yet this would be the first time he’s done it no?” The voices clamoring over each other as they spoke. “Interesting, too interesting. Child I shall let this pass but know that this will not work again in the future, you will have to use the proper means. Good luck.” The voices spoke, before the world returned to Novis once more. Novis looked down at Rideat and noticed mana was no longer flowing from him to Rideat. Novis fell to his back, feeling winded and empty as Rideat began to move. At first it was slow as if he was waking up but then Rideat suddenly shot up. He was breathing heavily as he began looking around. His eyes locked with Novis and he gasped. “I survived? Novis what are you doing here. Why do I feel so energized right now, I was totally on the verge of death   .” He began speaking as he continued looking around. Novis sprung up and hugged Rideat tightly. “You woke up! Thank you!” tears streaming down his face once more. “Help Cogitare please!” Novis shouted before point towards the monster, who was on the verge of eating Cogitare. Rideat stood up, “I’m still confused but I’ll ask later.” He said as he created a spear using weapon creation. Rideat threw the spear towards the nonel with all the force he could muster. A shockwave blasted back as the spear tore through the nonel. The nonel exploded, covering Cogitare in its purple blood, shocking Cogitare. He shouted as he looked around locking eyes with Rideat. “How! You were dead, and you’ve never been that strong!” Novis tried to stand to hug Rideat but collapsed instead passing out. Simul arrived as Novis collapsed, running to his side immediately. “What happened, Rideat how are you okay? Cogitare why did you never show up? Is Novis okay, why is he unconscious?” Simul clutching Novis in her arms. Cogitare spoke up first, “Novis awoke in my arms before running off to Rideat. I defended him from the nonel, albeit unsuccessfully, while he was with Rideat, that’s as far as I know. Rideat looked at both of them, “I’m not sure either, I woke up feeling incredible with Novis on my side. I threw a spear at the nonel, which did much more damage that I thought possible. Then Novis collapsed trying to stand up.” Simul pulled out a blended vial of herbs and fed it to Novis. A slight glow appeared around Novis as he began to wake up. He awoke on Simul’s lap surrounded by Cogitare and Rideat. Everyone looked at him with relief in their eyes. Simul hugged him tightly as Cogitare and Rideat began to smile. Simul began to cry lightly, “Novis sweetheart, never do anything like that again. Okay?” Novis nodded hugging her back before asking “What happened?” Cogitare looked at Rideat before looking at Novis, well I was hoping that you can help us out with that. Rideat was certainly dead when we made it to him and yet not only is he alive once more he’s even stronger than before he died.” Cogitare explained before Rideat chimed in “Ya man, I was definitely gone. I was in this weird gray place that looked like the forest but had no life. Plus I don’t think that was a regular nonel, none of my shadow binds worked on it.” They both looked at Novis, anticipating his response. Novis tilted his head before shaking his head. “I-I don’t know. I put my hands on Rideat and I heard a voice. Some weird energy came out before I spoke to something. It told me that I wouldn’t be able to do that again then he woke up and I felt really tired.” Cogitare tilted his head in response, “Could you describe this voice, and did you see anything?”, as he tried to think of what Novis could have heard. Rideat’s eyes suddenly widened as he spoke “Hey Novis, that voice you heard, was it like a weird collection of voices? Like multiple people speaking together saying the same thing?” Cogitare looked at Rideat with a bizarre look “As if such a weird thing could exist.” Lightly shrugging his shoulders as he spoke. Novis began to furiously nod, “It was really weird. I couldn’t speak either but it kept asking me questions.” Cogitare was taken aback in shock. “You mean this weirdo wasn’t simply making things up? I can’t believe you actually heard a collection of voices. What could this mean?” Cogitare asked as he began excitedly pacing around. He ran to his bag as he began to hurriedly dig through it. “While he’s doing that let me ask you Novis are you ok?” Simul asked as she let Novis go. He nodded and smiled bringing a smile to Simul’s face. “I’m glad you care so much for Rideat and Cogitare but please, remember to take care of yourself. Your too young to try and shoulder the responsibilities of another person’s life. Do you understand?” The smile fading from her face as she sternly spoke. “I understand mommy, I will do my best!” Novis spoke a smile still beaming on his face. Simul smiled once more are Cogitare rushed in. “I found it! A record of tales from those who’ve survived near death experiences. What you two spoke to was the God of Death, Interitus. Although not much is known about them they are rather enigmatic, there’s no record of them from before the Patron War but despite that they remain a central figure.” Novis looked confused as Rideat sat in disbelief. “There is no way that I spoke to a God, like a God god.” Rideat said still reeling in shock. Novis, however, sat there puzzled. “What’s a god of death? And why were they there and not helping Rideat?” Cogitare turned to face Novis, “They watch over those who have died. Like Rideat did but they can’t bring them back to life. Once they die they aren’t supposed to come back like he did. That’s why we want to find out what happened Novis, you’re clearly very special and to help keep you safe we need to know as much as we can. Now this book is a collection of stories but there is one thing that remains consistent. Interitus finds the living extremely interesting, often conversing with them after they die.” Cogitare began to explain. “Now despite the fact these people survived none of their recoveries were like Rideat’s. In all other cases, though on the brink, through medicine and care they pulled through. This means Novis didn’t simply heal Rideat. I believe that he truly brought him back to life and if that’s true, we cannot tell anyone about Rideat’s death.” He spoke as his face turned serious. Simul nodded along with Rideat. Novis spoke up once more “But why not? I can help save people right?” Rideat turned to face him, “I maybe the wrong one to say this as I’m here cause of you but Novis buddy, people aren’t always nice. If they hear you can bring back the dead they might hurt you to try and force you to revive specific people.” Novis sat there frowning, tears forming in his eyes, “Why would they do that?” Simul hugged him and tried to calm him. “Not everyone is like that sweetheart but the amount is not enough to risk it. Just be careful and don’t tell anyone else and you can live a normal life, I’m sure.” She said smiling at him. Novis wiped his eyes as he nodded. She nodded and said, “Now lets teach you about mana now that you’ve used magic! Mana is a gift from the creator God Mavros, it is present in all living things but there are only 2 ways of actually making use of it. First is magic, which is what you used to save Rideat, and then there is barhonic, which is really special. It can be really powerful but incredibly difficult to do. Now lets have you try and feel the mana in your body, okay?” Novis nodded in excitement. He sat down and closed his eyes. As he tried to focus he felt a strange power welling up inside, as the sounds of the forest faded away. Before he knew it, it was completely silent. He opened his eyes to tell Simul about that strange power but was met with a pitch black void, just like when he revived Rideat. “Ah, your back much sooner than I expected. I knew you’d be interesting. How can I help human.” A familiar collection of voices spoke. Novis opened his mouth but still no sound escaped. “Sorry about that, I’m not use to having others in this special space of mine so I’m still configuring it to be a good meeting place. You should be able to speak now, though I can also hear your thoughts if you’d rather think.” The voices spoke once more. Novis shook his head, “Hi, I’m Novis. I don’t know how I got here, I just wanted to feel my mana like mommy told me to.” The energy in the void shifted, “I see, well since you’re already here mind if I tell you something important?” They spoke. Novis nodded in agreement a smile already beaming on his face. “Glad you’re so happy. Well if you ever need an extra pair of hands simply focus your mana in your eyes. You’ll see the souls of the dead around you. If you can convince them to help you and shake your hand you’ll be able to use mana to revive them! Any questions Novis?” They spoke happily. Novis thought for a moment, “I think I understand but why are you telling me this?” The void’s energy once again shifted. “Ah well I get bored only talking to the dead. Plus as the God of Death, that’s is my realm so if you’d ask anyone I would probably top the list. There are only two other Gods you could ask and even then…” They began to trail off into thought before going completely silent. “Well regardless you and I are going to be talking a lot more in the future, so if you ever need any advice from your favorite God just focus your mana and I’ll come right on over. Alright Novis have fun now.” They said as the void began to dissipate. Novis felt his eyes forcibly shut as the sounds of the forest flooded his senses. He opened his eyes to see Simul sitting there, “Have you already done it Novis?” she asked puzzled. “I don’t know Mommy. I think so but I learned something.” She smiled, “What did you learn sweetheart?” Novis looked at Simul, blissfully unaware of the weight the knowledge he gain held, he spoke “I learned how to revive the dead, and how to talk to the souls first!” A bright smile on his face made it clear he expected nothing but praise. Simul was stunned into silence before she organized her thoughts. “What are you talking about sweetheart? All you did was focus your mana how would you have learned that?” As she spoke she did her all to not stare at him in disbelief. Novis’ smile grew larger as he puffed his chest. “I spoke to Interitus! They taught me everything I needed to know!” a proud huff following his response. Cogitare and Rideat, who were to shocked to speak, shouted in surprise. Cogitare began to mutter and pace attempting to reel with the truths this revealed while Rideat saddled up next to Novis. “So you met that weirdo too Novis? They were pretty strange huh?” Novis nodded while giggling, “They even called themselves my favorite God.” Simul was stunned once more into silence. “Novis sweetheart, you truly are incredible huh. Now I will warn you that you can’t just do everything Interitus tells you to alright? No matter how nice they seem until we know more it maybe dangerous to just listen to them without much thought okay?” Novis nodded. Simul headed off to setup a campfire to make dinner while Cogitare continued to pace around. Rideat went off to find some food leaving Novis to his own devices. Novis sat down before feeling for his mana. He closed his eyes before focusing his mana in them. Though he didn’t hear any difference when he opened his eyes he found a world of gray. He still heard birds and other wildlife and yet none were visible. As he scanned his newfound surroundings his eyes met with that of a large lizardman. The lizardman was sitting down, and yet his presence still set off alarms in Novis’ head. “Oy, who are you kid?” The lizardman’s voice was deep and gruff. “I-I’m Novis. Who are you mister?” Novis responded, he was curled into a ball as he spoke. “Ha! As if you don’t already know. Interitus I don’t know how you find turning into a child is entertaining but I grow tired of your presence. Either send me through reincarnation or let me live once more!” Novis flinched as the lizardman raised his voice. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’ve never seen Interitus but they don’t sound like a child.” Novis responded, visible shaken. The lizardman stood up and began approaching Novis, “So you truly find this worth all this trouble? I’ll show you I can’t be fooled!” The lizardman shouted, now sprinting towards Novis. However, before he could reach Novis, Novis closed his eyes distributing the mana throughout his body. Novis opened his eyes once more to see a world of color had returned. Novis breathed a sigh of relief before folding his arms. Novis thought to himself for a moment, “If I can’t convince one person that I’m not an enemy how can I help Mommy? What if I can’t save her like I did Rideat?” Thoughts of Interitus’ words flooded his mind. Novis took a deep breath, once again closing his eyes before focusing his mana towards them. He opened and began looking for the lizardman. Once more their eyes met but it was different. The lizardman’s hostility faded. “Ah so you’ve comeback. To think that eccentric weirdo wasn’t lying.” Novis was taken aback as the lizardman continued. “You said your name was Novis correct? What business do you have that you’d come to the land of souls?” Novis sat in silence trying to collect his thoughts but instead tears erupted from his eyes. “You’re mean! You yelled at me and wouldn’t listen! I just wanted to talk to you!” The lizardman shrunk in response to Novis’ cries. “Look, I’m sorry. I thought it was just Interitus playing tricks on me again, its not like I was yelling at you in particular.” As he spoke Novis continued crying. “Hey I’m sorry. I’m sorry, you said you wanted to talk right my name is Rex, and I swear I’m not that scary so please stop crying.” Rex was on one of his knees frantically waving his hand trying to calm Novis down. After a few minutes Novis did calm down, though he was still sniffling. “Rex are you strong?” Novis asked, now hiccupping from all the crying. Rex wore a shocked expression for a moment before a smirk appeared in its place. “Hehe, ya I’d say I’m pretty strong. I am easily one of the strongest lizardmen.” Novis continued his questions a smile peering out, “Would you help me?” Rex, once again shocked, retained his smirk. “Sure Novis, whatever you need. How can I help?” A large smile appeared on Novis’ face as he continued once more. “Yay, then can you help me protect my mommy?” Rex raised an eyebrow as he sat in silence for a moment. “Wait, Novis is your mom here? Is she dead too?” Novis tilted his head a Rex before responding. “No? Neither of us are dead.” Rex’s brow furrowed. “How could that be? This is the land of souls. No living person could get here.” Novis shook his head and spoke, “That’s not true. I’m here and I’m alive.” Rex, no longer believing Novis nodded in agreement. “Ok then. I am dead though so if you and your mom are alive how could I help.” Novis smiled once more before sticking out his hand. “If you shake my hand I can make you alive again.” Rex’s brow furrowed once more but instead of voicing his disbelief he grabbed Novis’ hand. “Alright Nov- no Boss! Alright Boss I’m excited to work with you!” Rex let go of Novis’ hand after shaking before looking around. Nothing seemed to be happening before mana suddenly spiraled around the two. Novis stood up and ran towards Simul shouting. Simul turned only to scream in return before using weapon creation to conjure a sword. “Rideat! Cogitare! I don’t know where he came from but a Lizardman just appeared! Novis sweetheart, get behind me.” She pulled Novis behind herself as she spoke before speaking once more. “I don’t know who you are or how you got here but I need you to stay away from my son!” Cogitare and Rideat run up next to Simul, blocking Novis grabbing weapons of their own. Rex put his hands up before speaking, “Whoa. Hey Boss what’s happening? They seem convinced I’m here to fight for some reason.” Simul shot a glance at Rex, “Who are you calling Boss? I don’t want to hurt you nor do I want to fight but you need to go away! I will protect this child with all I have and no one will get in my way.” Novis began tugging on Simul’s clothes. “Mom, mom its okay! I brought Rex here to help us!” Simul, shocked, looked back at Novis. Rideat and Cogitare lowered their weapons, though they remained at the ready. “Novis sweetheart, what are you talking about? When would you have met a lizardman, and where did he come from? People don’t appear out of thin air like that most times.” Novis breathed a sigh of relief as everyone settled down, “Remember how Interitus said I could summon those who died? I asked him to help me protect you and he agreed and it brought him back to life!” Novis smiled after his explanation expecting plenty of praise. Instead he froze up hearing Simul’s aggravated voice. “Novis, what did I just tell you about doing whatever Interitus said? And why didn’t you talk to me first before you just started reviving those who died?” Her brow furrowed as she spoke. Novis, realizing he messed up ran towards Rex, “I’m sorry Mom I just wanted to make sure you stayed safe!” Simul sighed before walking over to Rex. “Hello, my name is Simul, Novis is my son so I’m sorry for any trouble he caused you and sorry for threatening you as well. Now Novis sweetheart, let’s go have a talk ok.” Though Simul was smiling it was clear she wasn’t happy as she dragged Novis away by his ear. Rideat returned to hunting for food while Cogitare sat by the fire with Rex trying to get to know him.

Chapter 2: The Forest of New Beginnings