The air, it courses within my body, purifying what was exhausted, it stung my lungs, my neck, my head. A thick purple fog hung in the air; it was all I could see.

“Our time is limited, created child.”

Too loud.

“You were not brought into this world to subjugate, but to learn.”

As the voice spoke, the mist blew out of my vision, the sky didn’t look right, it shimmered and rippled. The ground surrounded me like a cushion, the smooth cool ground tickled the webs of my fingers as they slipped through. Sand? Where am I?

“Aggie, can you? Are you capable of letting him go?” A stealthy voice surrounded me.

“No. B-but I will, for his… happiness. If-if he says being a-alone… then I’ll do it. I’ll try to show him that his death won’t…” Maggie… please stop overburdening yourself.

“He isn’t the same. It’s like he’s trying to save us from himself. But I… I don’t know what the right choice to make is. Aggie, I don’t know.” Iliana… do what you want to do, don’t worry about what the right choice is.

“The orphanage, with his power, we can speak.” The orphanage, I remember what the reverend said. But who wants to speak if not him, this voice, it didn’t belong to anyone I knew. I tried plunging my palm into the sand to support myself, but the mist rushed past me, the purple mist took the shape of two people.

“We-we have each other.”

“We do. We do. We… do.” Those voices were soft, distant, broken.

“I can’t help but feel like he’s floating away. Losing himself, losing….”

“He wants us to move on. This is the only choice we can make for him.” There was an incoherent scream shredding my throat, the figures burst into a cloud of purple mist as my body rammed through them. The only sound left was a running a faucet.

“Please seek me out.” Too loud, your voice, it’s too loud.

“Calm down, Bona, hey!” Freya held my shoulders down.

“Freya? Iliana?!” I turned to see Iliana still laying down, gently shoving Freya aside I sat up to see Maggie resting in the next bed over.

“The girls are in no danger. Your wounds are healed up as well, I see that you aren’t suffering from mana overuse. Honestly, it’s one thing after another with you. It’s hardly been 12 hours.” Freya stood and picked up my cap from the bottom of my bed and tossed it at me. “Found this odd apparel in the dungeon.”

“Thanks.” Pulling the bill down over my head, I traced the outline of her shoulder, of her hair sprawled over the bed. “What… what’s going on with finding a place for them?”

She signed and looked over at the girls. “Knight Nabeel, he’ll allow them to continue their stay.” Our eyes met briefly. “Should we fore go group training?”

“Yes.” My response was reactionary.

“Understood. Warren’s wounds will heal, I’ll be placing him under my protection for now. He knows something about the Balance, something I suspected. I have him in a room surrounded by a mana barrier.”

“What happened last night?”

Freya closed her eyes and placed her hands over her nose rubbing it just under the eyes. “A mana created body. I have memorized its mana, it was underwhelming. Too incoherent.”

“Where can I find him, or it?” I don’t know what I dreamt, who’s voice rendered the skies, that conversation between Iliana and Maggie, how did I hear it? For now, there is someone out there who would dare to hurt the people I care about.

“I… I don’t know. In Terrarum… but an assumption with no evidence.”

“I’ll find evidence then.”

“…I have a list of people in Terrarum we suspected to have ties with the Balance. Only the king’s knights know this, and some high rank adventurers, Terrarum hasn’t devolved into nothing. It is uncertain how, no envoy we’ve sent has returned unharmed, or with usable information. But many cities still function.”

“I’m sorry for freaking out... How much longer?” I nodded towards the girls.

“Soon, there’ll be up soon. And no need to apologize, I’m sure nearly dying causing one to see things they wish they could forget. I’ll meet you out at the training square, take a left out…”

“I know, it… it was a long walk.”

“Cease staring at them.” Freya joked, looking behind her. “There is no need for worry. I wanted to train you in mana storage, Iliana told me about your dagger dilemma. And try using mana in archery, we need all the fighting force we can muster. Do you still need rest?”

“No… I’m not worried about them Freya. You stated that they are okay, I have faith in your words. I’m not worried about them.” I bit my lower lip and stared off into the distance with my eyes narrowed, focusing on something in not-so-distant future.

“At least my words hold value.”

“I’ll head on out.”

“Understood. I will fetch a servant to take my watch.”

The feel of the mana enveloping, memorizing, and swallowing the blade was difficult to comprehend. To mess up and ask the mana to store something I couldn’t visualize would destroy the item as the mana manipulated it.

“That’s the basics. We’ve already lost a good number of training daggers, but you can still practice with some sticks, or rocks. I had hope with the stake of using wooden daggers that you may have been able to accomplish the task in your first or second try.”

“Mana isn’t exactly second nature to me.”

“I… yes, I recall.” Freya’s smile looked distant. “Let’s head to the armory.”

“Lead the way.”

We gathered some archery equipment. Freya warned that mana in usage with weapons is finicky. Focus on your goal, you intend to change the trajectory of your arrow, nothing else. Erase form, erase calculations, take aim, fire and focus on connecting with the mana.

In front of me were six in line targets. Aiming for the gap in the middle, I was able to land my hundredth arrow in the left most target.

“I’ve expected you to wear out. This should be enough. Understanding the fundamentals is all one can be taught, where you go from here is your choice.”

“I get it.”

A knight walked up to us, his armor rattling as he came to attention. “High Mage Knight Freya, a servant has informed me that Warrior Iliana, and Warrior Maggie have awakened.”

“Thank you, Knight Klaydon. Rest up, Warrior Bona.”

I waved goodbye and headed towards something I couldn’t get off my mind.

“You get enough rest?”

“Yes Ma’am. I have nothing but excitement at the idea of training.”

“Don’t make me laugh... I’ve had a rough night.”

“I heard…”

He said it was in the middle of the stairs. There was one spot where the gap between the wooden boards was slightly larger. Sticking my fingers in the small gap was futile. I looked around, the office desk was marred and scratched. The right window shattered; claw marks penetrated the wooden floorboards leading to it. What went through their minds, Iliana had a love for fantasy, Maggie was always grounded in reality, how did they react to Warren?

I suppose it’s too late to wonder about it. Maybe it hasn’t been a popular topic for very much the same reason for why I couldn’t bear to walk past the door where Emily lost a part of herself. I feel like Iliana, did I make the right choice?

“Damn it!” The room echoed with a loud ban, my knuckles protesting at the abuse as they were pressed against the wooden desk. “Emily… Maggie… Iliana, I’m sorry I can’t be the person you need me to be.”

“Ahh!” I slammed my heel into the floor with an axe kick, breaking the board covering the hole.

A white, plastic bottle labeled “Blebbistatin+” in English. The cap had a symbol of a microscope looking at a solar system. The rattle was a familiar sound, the pills were small, circular blue and white capsules marked with the microscope symbol, and dosage value.

Two pills danced on my palms, my salvia marking a path for them. The world would be better without all these emotions. It was familiar, that bitter taste. It stayed on the tip of my tongue as I held the bottle closer to my chest.

“Emily… hopefully this’ll be enough.” I stared at the pills in my hand. “I’m sorry, but I need my emotions, or I’d have no reason to live.”

My room had a story to tell, Emily’s story. The servants did what they could, sweeping the hair, tidying the bed, furniture, and bathroom, but they couldn’t hide her story. Gripping the bottle tighter, I sat at the desk and rested my head.

Why do they want to fight? I don’t want them to ever feel death’s gaze. Think, they’ve been seduced by this world and its blight, they want to protect something worthless. How can I help them without spitting in the face of their resolve?

When a car is set for release, it has to run through testing. Is it safe, what issues does this new suspension, or ECM bring?

There is always testing, make a prototype, find out what need’s improvements, make them, and sometimes succeed. If those two want to fight… what if they fought a safer battle? I’ll have to consider my options.

If this worlds magic is based on what I was willing to study, learn and practice, then I will use everything to defend them. This God wanted the weak to be a match for their oppressors, then let me match his power. He has oppressed Iliana and Maggie, therefore he has oppressed me, and if toppling this world will save them, so be it.

That voice told me to go to the orphanage, it’s getting late, maybe tomorrow. Walking back to Capella didn’t sound appealing, besides the soft leather mattress already bounded me.

My mind wondered to the funeral. Iliana and Maggie were given permission to attend. Funerals run by the church is normally an event for royalty, church officials, or high ranks in the military. Other than that, families are responsible for burying their dead.

I hope that high honor gave Emily some closure. The only help I can offer is my absence, the absence of the man that ruined her life…

The next morning, I woke, showered, and headed towards the orphanage. I didn’t know exactly where it was, asking the guards at the gate solved that issue. The bottle of pills rattled in my pocket, what exactly was my plan, just give it to Victor? He wouldn’t know what they were, but Emily would.

They may spark something. But is it even the right choice, what if she decides to take them, then runs dry? Is such a temporary solution even worth the trouble? I hate the idea of her suffering from the grief. The last time I cried was at the loss of an old friend at church, a man in his late 80s, one of the greatest men I’ve ever known. The pain of losing someone by their own willingness hurts, but the pain of someone passing was worse than slamming my head into the corner of a car lift’s arm.

A knot in your chest, a conscious mind floating above a physical body, a hand shaking from the sheer rush of emotions. What pain is worse? A knife wound heals, a bullet wound, a bump, but a broken heart can only grow callous to hide the tattered heart within. Maybe Emily and I both need these drugs, it maybe our only defense to these decrepit emotions in a world where we don’t belong. For that matter, is there even a world where I belong?

“Welcome sir, how may we help you?” At the entrance to the large building in a section of the city designated for the church, a young girl answered my knock. The orphanage was on a large open lot, it was one of the few open spaces visible from the palace.

“I need to see the Reverend.”

“Reverend Mirth? He’s currently praying. I’m sorry, can I ask you come again sometime later.” A boy wearing an ironed cotton shirt and clean black pants pried the door open a little further inspecting me.

“Mister, your muscles are so big.” He squeezed out the door standing within kicking distance from me and started squeezing his arm.

“Wesley!”

“Yes, Ms. Estella?”

“Just because there is a visitor, that does not excuse you from your studies. Go!”

“I’m sorry.” The boy turned and slowly walked back into the building.

“Tell the Reverend, Warrior Bona is here to speak to him.”

“Oh, Warrior Bona, yes, I’ll take you to him at once. Come in.” She stepped away from the entrance giving space, inside smelled of plants and chalk. Children’s voices bounced off every inch of the spotless walls. Estella led me through a hall with classrooms to my right, and a wooden board in front of every door designating classroom numbers and teacher’s names.

We took a right at the corner, walked a few feet to a set of double doors to our right. “God’s Tabernacle” labeled the room. We walked down the carpeted path, 2 sections of pews on our left and right. We headed for the Reverend bowing to a figure standing on top a hill. Its head was only a few inches from the tall ceiling, body covered in a robe, it’s face looked dignified, hands outstretched from left to right, engulfed by the light leaking through the large window behind it.

The room extended for 14 meters; our footsteps muffled by the carpet. There was an intense heat surrounding the Reverend as we approached him, his prayer reaching our ears.

“We asked for saviors, please… saviors. Show me your wisdom, God of Mana, perplex this lowly life with your words. It may be too soon for your child to ask more of you, but saviors they are not. I use this power you granted your children, my pleas will persist for their sake, my Lord. We asked for saviors, saviors. Please God of mana, speak to this lowly servant.”

Estella sat in the front row to my left, I sat in the front row to the right. Mirth was 20 feet away, on a lifted platform with him and the stature at its center.

“God of mana, they seek their home. They are not fighters, Bona has a love…”

“MIRTH!” I yelled.

Immediately the heat he was radiating vanished as he stood from his kneeling to face us. His hair was patted down to his head, sweat drenched the front of his purple robe. “B-Bona… Estella, thank you for guiding him here.”

Estella stood and bowed her head. “God of mana, thank you for allowing me in your tabernacle.” She raised her head and looked at me expectedly for a few seconds before responding to Mirth. “You did tell me to bring any of the warrior’s here immediately.”

“Yes… yes. Can the warrior and I speak?”

“Certainly, I’m sure the children are eagerly waiting for their teacher. Farewell.” She waved at us and walked out the double doors.

“I’m sorry...” Mirth pulled his lips in; his eyes were sincere. “God Coelum spoke to me, he asked me to use my connection to the mana to invite you to speak to him. I asked concerning you three, he… he will not return you three to your world.”

I flinched at the dreaded words. An urge to walk up and confront him swelled up, instead, I turned and started walking off. There just wasn’t any reason to hurt him right now. “Bona, what is that sound?”

“Nothing.”

“Please, don’t leave. You’ve come this far, please speak to the God of Mana.” He took a few steps towards me.

“Piss off!” I turned, fighting my body, every muscle I still had control of stopped me from assault this good man. “THEY ALMOST DIED! How can your God be of any use to me! Why would I speak to such a worthless overlord that I can’t have faith in! I have no faith that he’ll protect my loved ones! They’ll suffer, I’ll suffer, and his machinations will march on! That’s what I have faith in!”

The room fell silent, my neck cramped as every muscle bulged. “Please refrain from blaspheming my God. Warrior Bona, you don’t lack faith but hope. I cannot understand your plight, the world has always been good to me. My family loved me, my father was a good man, my mother was a good woman, my brothers were well known. When my father and my brothers died, my mother never once failed in her faith because of her hope.

“Her hope that they are still near, I may never get another scolding from my father, or my siblings, but I feel them in the mana, I feel them when I am with my God. All I know about you is your desire to be alone, to make… to make others forsake you. A hero that doesn’t inspire hope, a man with no home, no family. That is your wish? My God doesn’t wish that for you. Speak to him, he wants you to know that you are not forgotten, that you can have what you desire, what you truly desire.”

He spoke calmly, it was obvious he didn’t want a shouting match. I closed my eyes, feeling the mana around me, breathing it in, holding it, memorizing the feel of it before slowly exhaling. “How? I’ve been nothing but a burden to you.”

“No. You’ve shown me there is more to humanity than good and evil. I’ve always struggled with the idea, that those who love and serve God are good, and those who serve other gods, love other gods, they were evil. My desire to not summon you three wasn’t out of compassion.”

“You’ve been nothing but kind.”

“As I was taught to be. Now, my God wishes to speak to you. What will you do?” He smiled at me.

I adjusted my hat, the pills rattled as I walked up to the base of the statue. “Do I just kneel here?”

Mirth placed a hand on my shoulder. “Lord, I ask that you share your wisdom.”

Purple mist clouded my vision from all sides, my feet sinking into the ground as I shifted my weight looking around. “Created child, why do you hate?”

Breathing here felt like a crime, my feet kicked the sand into the air as I fell back to sit.

“Created child?”

“Send them back.”

“Hmm. Do you know who I am?”

“Yeah, God of this world, I’ll call you Bob. Bob the creator.”

“I am known by many names, though, Bob has not been one of them. Call me as you wish, it matters not. Please, created child… Why do you hate?”

“You know all I’ve been through? I showed the world a love it never deserved. I sacrificed to have those I helped offer me for more sacrifices. What purpose is there to love everyone?”

“I see. My knowledge of your life only began when we brought you here.”

“We?”

“I suppose, you can call him my brother. The creator of your magic less world.”

“Ah, Jehovah.”

“Jehovah, an excellent name… We’ve made many mistakes, caused our many worlds uncountable troubles. Our time interfering in our worlds have ceased, but my ways have made my influence unremovable. This world thrives on my power, to remove it would be devastating. But your world… from countless wars to peace treaties and worldwide trades with many believing in no God.”

“Is there a reason for this conversation. You know what I want. And hopefully know that I don’t give a…” My voice went dead silent. “What was that?”

“Ah, I despise words I deem despicable.”

“Well Jehovah would’ve allowed it. Any ways, I hate backstories, it annoys me.”

“And what you want is to return those two home. Then stay in my world. I know, but that would break my covenant. You three were not set upon this world to subjugate it. You will bring sorrow to the sorrow bringers; you will harm those that seek powers from other worlds. But if gods cannot change the world, we want to help our worlds through you three.”

“… off… it… Ahh, just, look I don’t want to help your world, or mine. But I don’t want those two to go through the trials ahead of them. They don’t deserve to have their happy lives turned upside down for some ploy.”

“If only you understand them. Their desires, the things they love, the sadness they must bear.”

“I don’t, and I never will. I bring nothing but sadness. I break their hearts over and over… I hurt others and feel no regret, the thought of killing the daughter of one of the coolest men I know keeps popping in my head for no reason. What can I do to better this god… world? And quit censoring me!”

“Open the well you covered. It will drown any world’s suffering in a blinding, healing light.”

My hand cupped the bottle in my right pocket. “Bit hard to do that.”

“Yes… I know. Steel, cement, cast iron, they are hard things to break.”

“Ha, not kidding, but with your power, it’ll probably be no sweat.”

“Yes, but it wouldn’t help. I can break, I can mend, but when a created child breaks the invisible, mends the invisible, it helps more than themselves. To have a god intervene only begets unforeseen troubles.”

“Well, you did… up in bringing me here, Bob.”

“That would be true… if it wasn’t for them.” The mist started to thin. “Hmm… it seems we’ve been at it for too long. My servant needs his rest. You three will face our tests, and only after you’ve succeeded will we send you back. May we meet again. I promise you my help when I deem it appropriate.”

“… off…” I stared at the base of the statue, realizing I was now out of that censored world. “Fuck you. Ah, that feels better.”

Mirth’s hand burned into my shoulder, I turned to face him. “B- B-, la…”

Placing his burning arm over my shoulders, I led him to the pew and sat him down. “Good-bye, Mirth. And your God… never mind.”

I… forgot about training. It was late into the day when I left the orphanage. I was there by 7am most likely, and according to the clock Mirth gave me, it was around 1pm. It didn’t feel like I talked to Bob for that long. Using mana movement, I popped into the training square. Iliana and Maggie were sitting by the fountain in the middle of the square. Freya and Victor were discussing something off to the side.

When the girls noticed me, they stood and ran over. “Bona, we were so worried.” Iliana wrapped her arms around me. “You know, it was almost like you knew he was going to attack.”

“Yeah, it seems that way, Little Goose.” She pulled herself in closer as I spoke.

“Mmm, your voice vibrates throughout your whole body, you know.”

Maggie stood hesitantly off to the side for a few moments. “Where were you, idiot?” Her arms snuck over Iliana’s, hugging me from the side.

“I’m happy to see you two are good, Busy Bee.” My elbows were sticking out perpendicular to the ground, hands in the air. Maggie and Iliana let go simultaneously.

“Bona? Where were you yesterday?” Iliana shoved me, rattling the pills in my pocket. “That… that sounds like marbles… no… pills in a bottle.”

“Oh yeah… got it in my room at the palace?” I pulled the bottle out, knowing I couldn’t hide it, doubtful they would know what it was. “Had it with me when we were brought here.” I rolled the bottle in my hand.

“I don’t remember you having it. I swear we would’ve noticed it.” Maggie said as she reached a hand for the bottle. “Hmm… Bleb… bis…”

“Blebbistatin?” Iliana asked as Maggie handed her the bottle. “I remember this from when I worked as a nurse.”

That fact slipped my mind. I suppose it isn’t surprising, I knew Iliana before she was 18. At the moment, I can only hope she didn’t have any information on the pills.

“If I recall, I read an article… they were testing it to erase… emo… towards...” She ran her hand over the label. “Bona… um… where did you get this?”

“Don’t remember, CVS?”

Iliana shook her head. “Ha… if you knew about this chemical compound… you’d know how stupid that sounds.”

“Warrior Bona, how are you feeling? We missed you during training.”

“Victor. I’m good.” I snatched the bottle out of Iliana’s hand. How do I give Emily these drugs? How would I get her to take it? My eyes looked at Victor, how could I use him to help Emily?

“What is in your hand youngling?”

“It’s nothing.” I shoved the bottle in my pocket. Iliana stared at her empty hand, biting her lips.

“Iliana, are you well?” Freya asked.

“Illy?” Maggie leaned forward to look at her face.

“I’m hunky doorie.” Iliana straightened herself and smiled at them, running a hand over her face and through her hair.

“Hunky doorie? I assume that means you are okay?”

“Yes Freya. Sorry.” Freya nodded.

“Warrior Bona, what was that bottle?”

“If you want to know, it’s something I came here with from my world. It’s nothing more than medicine.”

“Oh… Victor, make sure to stay away from it and the pebble like things in it. Their pills, medication specifically for his body.”

“Ah, understood. Something a healer made just for him.”

“Yes, but in our world, medicine comes in hard, small, pebble like capsules.” Iliana smiled at him.

Freya seemed interested in that fact. “That sounds effective. I could see it extending the length of time the medicine remains potent. And it would make it easier to digest. I wonder if Scientia has something similar, or Remidium?” Freya walked in front of me. “Are you well, Bona?”

No… of course I’m not. Iliana ruined any chance I had to help Emily. How could I be okay? Emily is gonna have to stew in her own suffering. “I-I’m… ugh.” I pulled the bottle out and dropped it, a defeated scoff escaping as I started walking off. The thought came that I should just keep it for myself. But there is somebody out there that needed to know my emotions.

Iliana ruined my chance to help Emily. She doesn’t understand the pain of losing someone prematurely. I can’t hate her for growing up in a life where old age is the only thing that separated you from the ones you loved.

Freya picked up the bottle that rolled behind her. “What is this made of?” The bottle rattled as she ran beside me, pulling me around. “Bona, what is going on?”

“Freya, stop, let him go, please.” Maggie stepped up. Freya obliged her and looked at the bottle in her hand.

“Those…” Iliana had one corner of her lip raised, and her brows lowered. With her eyes closed, she bowed her head, “They’re just medicine from our world. I think Bona is just acting childish again. The Doofus doesn’t know how to act like an adult.” Her head raised with a smile.

“What are these inscriptions?”

“Letters from our world. Then the symbol next to it is a plus sign. Meaning add unto, example is if you had 10 soldiers, then 15 more came, you added 15. Or 10 plus 15, making…”

“Stop.” Freya gave Maggie a chuckle. “We have the concept of addition in this world.” She looked the bottle over again. I felt thankful the two of them were covering for me, even if Maggie didn’t quite understand what was going on. But being who she is, she understood the situation well enough.

“Isn’t this the Scientia insignia?” She looked at the top of the cap, her mouth hung open, eyes slightly widened.

“What?!” Victor quickly looked at it before stepping in to hide it.

I made an effort to look at the logo. “What’s the deal? I didn’t even know it was, we have a company in our world that uses that logo.” I lied.

Freya grabbed my hand and placed the bottle in it, covering it with my other hand. “It is important that no one lays their eyes on this insignia. If it is similar to one in your world, I understand, and I will not confiscate your medication. But keep it hidden.” Freya warned before removing her hands from mine.

I opened my hands to look at the bottle for barely a second, Iliana snatched the bottle. Victor’s, and Freya’s hands were there an instant later.

“Hidden, Doofus. If you can’t comprehend what that means, I’ll hold on to it.” She placed it in her pocket.

Maggie whispered, “Illy, what does Blebbistatin do?”

“We’ll talk about it later. Okay?” Maggie pulled her lips in and nodded.

“With that taken care of, Freya, do you think I could grab that list from you?” Everybody’s hands returned to their resting positions.

“What list? Why do I feel so lost?” Maggie asked.

“Well, the break is over now, but if you have an errand to run Knight Freya, I can continue the girls training?”

“Sure. Bona, let’s head in. I don’t have anything to write with.” She headed toward her house before stopping and turning. “Iliana, hidden.” She said with a nod, Iliana replied with a smile and thumbs up, Freya returned the thumbs up before continuing towards the house.

“Wait, what list?”

“List of people of interest in Terrarum, Maggie. It’s for when we head down. I just want some intel from them.”

“Oh. Thank you.” Maggie patted my shoulder, resting her hand.

“I’ll see you two in a little bit.” Picking her hand up and moving it aside, I followed Freya.

“What were you three hiding?” She asked once we were inside.

“Hiding? Was it that obvious?”

“Tell me… what individual takes the time to explain the working theory of plus? Especially if that word exists in our language?” The lump that traveled down my throat trapped my answer.

“The only thing I can consider is that medication…” Freya’s steps slowed. “Hmm…” She stopped and turned to me, crossing her arms.

I bowed my head. “What’s the matter?”

Freya signed. “I suppose Emily losing her family has ruined more than her life only. But you must not push aside your humanity. Your grief, it will change you, if for the bad, acceptable, if for the good, acceptable. But to live a life that doesn’t allow a person room for growth is despicable. I’d rather a good man turn bad.”

“Would you rather a broken girl suffers because of that grief your fond of?” My eyes glared at the ground thinking about Emily. Her scared lips, her missing hair, her wounded soul.

“Sometimes, the sole of your feet must imprint the lowest soil. The anchors of life digging a trench to hold your sorrows down behind you. But the first step towards the keys to those chains, towards the silk that comfort your weary soles, those first steps could save a world.” Freya bit her lip, and inhaled. “I have left many trenches in many paths. I am happy I have lived long enough to see the mountains they’ve climbed. Bona, I’d rather you an ally, than an enemy. I cannot say with certainty what those girls would do if I acted upon my emotions. Please dispose of those drugs, give me your word, for your sake… and for Emily’s.”

“You know, you’re very long winded.” My hand scratched the back of my ear. “I can’t get the drug back anyways. Iliana knows too.”

“Still, she covered for you.” Freya chuckled. “You three… Would’ve made a great team, and a fearsome enemy.” She pulled a sheet out of her pant pocket. “Pockets, one of the many benefits of not wearing armor. I question why my knights insist upon it for training. But here is your list.”

I grabbed the parchment. On it was written 5 names, possible locations, and an unknown numerical number labeled vis. Example being “Elyn Ikaria, Katara, 5.199.494.1vis.”

Freya must have noticed my confusion. “Don’t concern yourself with the group of numbers. If you see them yourself, then I’ll explain. They have no value for you right now. Let’s get some training in.”

“How were the girls?”

Freya thought about my question before walking back. “I apologize for my world; it wasn’t always like this… They don’t know how to react, gladly they are reluctant to let it smother them.”

“Why? Those two need to know when something is beyond their ability.”

Freya looked at me with a weary smile. “Yes, I suppose they do.”

The rooms in Nabeel’s were furnished with a bed, a large desk I could lay on, and a nightstand beside the bed. The nightstand was to my right, the bed along the wall. The floor was carpeted, the walls were made of white clay, windows in their usual place, high up, few inches below the roof. I sat in the warmly lit room, staring at the top of the desk, Bob’s words popping into my head.

Because of their interference in their many worlds, they’ve screwed things up. Many worlds? Not just the world I come from, not just this world… but those portals, aren’t they just connected to other worlds?

I can’t help but think I’m a monster created in the world I came from. Bob believes those two care, no, their just too kind.

Iliana knocked on my door, entering before I had a chance to reply. “Tomorrow is the last day of our “month” long training. Ha, more like 3 weeks’ worth of training.” She walked past me as she was speaking, sitting on the edge of my bed. “So, we hunting down those guys on that list?”

“I will be.”

“Oh, I feel bad for them poor guys…” I peeked over at Iliana as she stared distantly at the ground.

“What did you really come here for Iliana?”

“What were you planning to do with these?” The bottle of pills took shape above her hands before popping into existence and falling.

“How did you already learn that? Damn, I’m falling behind.”

“Please stop cursing. And answer my question.” Her nose flared, pulling her lips up with a pout, eyes burning holes in mine.

“Um… yeah, no problem.” I stood and turned the chair to face her. “I’m sorry. It upset me when you cautioned Victor.”

“Yeah, I noticed. Maggie thinks you wanted to give them to Emily. Explains that little shin dig.”

A chuckle escaped my throat. “She is always so reliable. Wish she’d act more like her old self.”

“I wish we all acted like our old self. Ready for training tomorrow?”

“Yeah.”

Iliana nodded. “I’m glad to hear you’re still concerned about Em.” She snickered. “Camilla is over the effects of the drug… she’s hurt over what she did when she was under these stupid pills influence.” Iliana played with the bottle.

“What you thinking about, Little Goose?”

“You know, the scariest part of a scary movie isn’t the monster for me, but the idea that the monster is always right behind you. And now, I’m scared the monster might be right. There was always a reason for them doing what we think of as bad.”

I stared at her, remembering her resolve to defend what the monster wanted to destroy. “You’re scared Warren may have been right?”

“Emily…, Camilla…, you…, Aggie…, Julie…, me. All of us could be happier without emotions. We could’ve been friends for longer. No… I mean… I would’ve never thought pushing you and Josiah away was the right thing to do, maybe. Ha, what is the right to do now, anyways?”

“Iliana, the right to do will always be what you think is right. Of course, its like your father used to always say, pray, and seek counsel before you decide, but whatever choice you make, make it the right one. The only possible option you could have chosen.”

She bit her lips, thinking about what I said. “It will never be the right choice, but we have to, I guess.” She fought to keep that faint smile on her face. But what bothered me was how her body reacted at the mention of her father.

“Do… I suppose it’s a stupid question. But, do you miss your family?”

“Hehehe. You’re right, that was a really stupid question.” She replied, her eyes reflecting the light of the sconce behind me.

I grunted. “H-how are you and Maggie feeling?”

She pulled her lips in pinning them between her teeth. “Good. We’re gonna find him, or it, and kick his butt. We weren’t ready, but next time we see him… we will be. That list Freya gave you, are they connected to him.”

I shrugged. “Its what I intend to find out.”

“Let us help you find him.”

“Whoever that was hurt you guys. I don’t want you around when we meet.”

Iliana shivered. “Bona the Mechanic.”

“Your father let you watch R rated movies?” Iliana looked off to the side raising her head with the motion.

“Ohhh, maybe.”

“I’m telling on you when we get back.” We shared a laugh in the warm light of the sconces.

“Bona? Do… do you hate us?” The question immediately put me on edge, I felt the warmth of my body telling me to flee, but I knew fleeing was not an option I had.

“I don’t, you two choose a path, and it didn’t involve me. I can’t hate you for being happy.”

Iliana’s scratched the top of her knee. “Happy?” She whispered the word, her mouth forming it as if it were foreign. “Why did you change so much?”

Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

Resting my left elbow on the armrest, I rubbed the side of my face. “Where is Maggie?”

“She… she… she can’t be here. She’s trying her hardest to give you what you want.”

Trying her hardest? I remember hearing that in that world where the air’s pureness sanitized me from within, leaving behind a stinging pain. Was Bob staying out of this world, technically messing with me should be considered faulty to that claim. “Trying her hardest huh? I hope she succeeds.”

“…Yeah…”

Iliana stood and left the bottle on my desk. “It… it was good to have you be a part of my life again Bona. And me taking these away from you would violate my decision. Please take care.” She waved with a smile that may not be able to call itself a smile, my eyes didn’t leave her till the door latched shut.

Before the sun rose in the morning, I packed my belongings and headed for Alvin’s shop. I couldn’t stop picturing Metalli writhing on the floor, bleeding from her neck, me standing over her, watching. Alvin is a lighthouse, a source of joy and safety, and Metalli was a large portion of the fuel he needed to be that man.

My steps were long, slow, it was as if I was trying to hide my presence from the rising sun. Alvin should’ve been open for about 30 minutes by the time I arrive. I just had to get there.

The bells rang at my entrance, Alvin stepped through the curtains with a customer in fresh light metal armor. I decided to look at the sculptors Alvin made from different materials that lined the walls along with his armor, and weapons.

“They fit like they were made just for me.” The customer joked.

“Gain another 3 pounds and they’d stick to you like a parasite. I’m telling you; you should’ve let me increase the size a tad Malin.”

“No, no. I promise you, this is exactly what I wanted.” Malin patted the breast plate, and knee pads. “Thank you so much for your excellent service. How much do I owe you?”

I adjusted my cap and headed for a rack to the right of the entrance, another baseball cap sat at the top. It looked lonely on the rack full of other hats, did Alvin have trouble making these?

“Ha, okay, as long as you are happy. How bout we make it 6 silver pieces, and 3 aluminum coins.”

“Hmm, I’ll give you 7 silvers, keep the rest.”

“Thank you. If you ever have difficulties with the armor, I’ll give you a discount on your next set.” Alvin said with a chuckle.

“Thank you, Sir Alvin. I will gladly return; no other blacksmith would make such fine equipment with the strict blue prints I offered.”

“Wish I could tell you it was a pleasure. Tell your father I said I miss his business.”

“I’m sure it was difficult, and I will. Good day to you then.” Malin walked past me and out the door. As he steeped out I heard him silently exclaiming, “Thus begins my adventures.”

“So, 1 silver coin for a hat huh?”

“Yeah. Well, silver piece. They’ve been selling well, that one is the last out of 10, hung on that rack for 2 days.” He headed to the back, signaling me to follow.

There was a set of leather armor on one of his workbenches to the left. “I added the groin protector. Really sorry about the kid.”

“Oh… Met-olly, its fine.” He tapped me on the shoulder and pointed to a second bench to the right. “Hey, you got a handle on the blade tip designs.” 8 daggers gleamed in the light of the oven, a 64” long bow sat unstrung underneath them with a quiver full of arrows.

“Yeah, pain in the ass, but once I envisioned the concept, it just came to me. Clip… point, I visualized how it was different from our usual daggers and envisioned a hunter using this to skin an animal and pounded the blade into the shape. Then your spear point, and your tanto point. You wanted 4 of the clip points, 2 of the others, made with the strongest steel this world could afford... It’ll be damn expensive, but we’ll work out the details in a bit.”

“Alvin, you’ve out done my expectations man.” I looked up at him, he seemed lost in thought. He noticed my stare and turned to me, moving his jaw side to side, wiggling his beard. “What’s up?” His eyes moved to my backpack.

“Not training today?”

“Oh, no, I’m moving back to the palace. Decided to stop by to pick up my things.”

“It’s early. Girls know?” I looked around the room, what do I say?

With a sign, he walked out the curtains leading into the store front. “Today was supposed to be your last day of training and living in the city, according to Freya… I hate knowing I was wrong. You seem committed to leave those two. They do have a place to stay in the city, right?”

I followed him, “Yes, they’ll stay in the house they’re at now.”

He reached down to a dagger sitting underneath the countertop. “Honestly… seems like a waste to give this to you.” He handed me an ornately decorated scabbard with a custom dagger handle. “I didn’t do any of the art.”

The leather scabbard had carvings of interlocking gears on one side and a flaming skull with wrenches making a cross bone on the other side. The handle was painted black and grey. “Where’d the paint come from?”

“I have a small supply; how’d you think I painted your hat. It’ll cost the person a fortune, but they were willing to take on the debt.”

“Maggie, or Iliana?”

“Can’t tell you.”

I replied with a exasperated ha.

“Metalli didn’t deserve those… um… those cupcakes. But I love her, still, I need to learn how to punish her committedly. Once my wife decides on a punishment, even God himself could not move her will. I’ve only changed her mind once about something she had no right to believe in… But I guess that’s how she shows Metalli her love. Through her toughness.” Alvin’s eyes fell unto the sheathed blade in my hands. “Look at the dagger blade, I learned you could engrave steel in a rather inexpensive way. Mana can do some pretty amazing stuff with some creativity.”

I undid the strap holding the dagger in place, as the blade slowly slid out, on the left side were engraved words in english, a blue tint decorated the edge of the blade all the way up to the clip point tip. The letters were colored in a gradient, light purple fading to a dark blue on the right. I read the engravings, nibbling on my tongue. “Those two idiots.”

Alvin placed a hand on my shoulder. “You have to do what you think is right. But you three belong together.” I nodded as the blade and its engraving hid itself in the sheath.

“How… How much do I owe ya?”

“Total… 1 gold piece, 18 silver pieces, 6 copper coins, and 2 aluminum coins.”

“Yeah, I… I don’t know if that’s a lot or not.”

“Will, gold is 100 silver, silver 80 aluminum, aluminum 100 copper, which is 50 zinc, then 30 mercury. It’s expensive. Let’s say, the city on average pays a working citizen 45 aluminum coins for a day’s labor.”

“Wow… I think your over charging me, brother.” I said sarcastically. My eyes remembering the dagger’s name through the scabbard.

“Yeah, everybody says that, you’re not the first. If you want, I can show you a list of the time it took to make your weapons and armor, and the price of the materials.” Alvin said accusingly.

“No, I’m kidding. Is it discounted?”

“Maybe if you were Iliana, or Maggie, but brother, you’re getting charged full price.” He wore a weak smile.

“Well, that’s fine. Let’s try the armor on.”

“Sure.”

The dark brown leather armor fit perfectly, protecting my elbow, fore arms, shoulder, chest, upper back, knees, shin, and crotch. Alvin gave me a rug to carry my daggers, I placed the ornate one horizontally on my belt, the interlocking gears facing out, under my belly to the left where I could easily reach the handle with my right hand. I walked out, promising to give Alvin his payment after my first ‘paycheck’. Before I opened the door, Alvin caught my attention.

“Hey!”

I quickly turned. “What’s up?!”

“Just so you know Bona. I could never forgive anyone for hurting my family. Especially my little Hearth….” Alvin’s voice boomed, but it sounded muffled to me.

I shook where I stood as I gave him a quivering smile and wave. “I’d never for-give them either, brother.”

Alvin replied with a grunt before speaking, “good, and don’t let those two believe you ever stopped caring about them.”

Pulling open the door was like opening the cap to a pressurized radiator, the world hissed at me, the world showered me in an unbearable heat, painful itches erupting all around.

He’s right, I don’t deserve such a personal gift. He should have given it back to the girl who put her effort in this blade. Why didn’t he?

I skipped training, how could I go after a good-bye like that from Iliana? That smile of hers was the poster for the end. But I felt the urge to go, to see them, to just apologize for being late, for not being in my room that morning. Ignoring the emptiness, the urge, the itchiness, the heat, I headed for the palace.

The remainder of my time at the palace was spent training. Victor came by and assisted. After much trial and error, I’ve finally gotten the basics of mana storage, and using mana in my archery. 9/10 times, I can perform the spells without fail, but the time it took for me to cast mana storage was absurd compared to the speed at which Freya and Victor could achieve, or even Iliana.

I haven’t seen or heard from her and Maggie in seven days. Finally, the day came that the king arrived at Capella. I stood at the palace doors, watching the city as a large band of black armor suited men rode on horseback towards the city. The 4 wagons in the group looked utilitarian, but to believe there was no royalty was foolish. I could tell that even from the large distance between us.

A crowd gathered at the pavilion, a welcoming party. Never understood the appeal of celebrities, they were just people. People grown into a certain family, people good at what they did, but to border worship for someone strikes me as crazy.

The call will come, the ceremony to grant Iliana, Maggie and me the title of Warrior. I paced around the halls after walking back in, I imagined it didn’t feel good when I ditched them. I just have to handle it, I know the decision they’ve made, its time I put their resolve to the test. For now, I needed some breakfast.

“Warrior Bona. I’m afraid our resources are still dwindling. And I haven’t had the chance to officially show you my gratitude.” He bowed his head with a fist resting against his chest. “Thank you for ridding us of Warren’s harsh employment. I’ve been able to spend time with my family, and save my earnings. Life as been improved for me and them greatly.”

“Please shut up.”

“Oh… sorry.” His eyes darted as he awkwardly fidgeted with the knife on the tabletop.

“Make a decent breakfast with what you got. I’ll be in the dining hall.”

Food shortages were happening again. The other cities nearby tried their best to increase their harvest supplies and deliver them to Capella. Capella depended a lot on Terrarum trades for food, Terrarum’s soil and climate was far more suited for farming. Capella was surrounded by hills making irrigation a hassle, therefore the city never developed its own farmlands. The cities nearby didn’t have much flat terran either, but I assume they overworked their fields and can no longer supply Capella with any more of their surplus. I can’t help but feel the fall of Capella nearing.

In the middle of my meal and thoughts, a messenger arrived. “Warrior Bona, Knight Freya has asked that you make haste to Capella.”

“Got ya.” My gaze didn’t leave my plate as I waved him off.

“Sir… she asked that I follow you there and lead you to her.”

“I know where she’ll be… most likely. But I’m eating my grass, so if you could excuse yourself that would be helpful.”

“I’m sorry sir. Please hurry, I’ll stand here.”

This was exasperating, it was just the king. I push the chair away from the table and stood. “Fine, let’s go.”

We rode on horseback towards the city, the guards saluted us and advised to be on our best behavior. The messenger brought the horse to the stables and headed in the direction towards the high residential area.

“Ah, tsk, tsk, Warrior Bona, I heard ya breaking hearts.” Tor held a rough looking book in his hands.

“Tor. Why exactly are you reading about other people’s sex life? Ought books mainly written about other people’s experiences.”

“Ho, that hurts man. These are tales from adventurers traveling the world. I can’t afford that lifestyle, best if I just read ‘em.” He began unlocking the gates for us, hiding the book between his arm and body as the messenger walked closer towards the gate.

“Wish I could attend ya ceremony. Warrior Iliana and Maggie have already left, they couldn’t stop talking about you… You really are a riot.”

“Tor, we should spar sometimes.” I smiled at him as I walked past.

“Sorry, can’t fight, never had the time to train.”

“All the better for me then.”

“Oh, ha, ha, Mr. Riot… Hey! Thanks for all ya done man. I’ll miss having you around Capella.”

“Yeah.” The messenger was solely focused on his mission, getting me to Freya as soon as possible. Only slowing down to urge me on with his gaze.

We met Freya in her home. I was wearing a white shirt and buckskin pants stained with blood, along with a pair of tan moccasins.

Freya looked me over, then at her messenger. “Have you advised Warrior Bona for the reasoning for my beckoning?” The messenger nodded.

“Understood. Bona?”

Feeling my face hang low out of boredom and annoyance, a “Hmm?” rumbled out.

“Alright, borrow clothes.” We were in a large dressing room. “Servant. Please gather garments for Warrior Bona to wear to the ceremony.”

“Yes, Master Freya.”

“I swear.” Freya said while adjusting her black and silver armor. “Could’ve at least worn your armor. But the dagger on your hip looks expensive. Keep that in the open.”

I took a deep breath. “How long will this take?”

“It depends if the king is there or not. I spent some time with the Princess, she arrived a few hours ahead of the large caravan that pulled in moments ago. She hopes to extend it for some time, the kind heart she has was what granted her family the throne. She wants to give you three a taste of the overwhelming gratitude she has.”

“A taste? Based off those choice of words, does she know food isn’t all that abundant?”

“Her caravan brought plenty. Enough for three feasts.”

“Ah, okay. Makes sense then, last thing I want is a battle for every scrape of morsel… And if the king is there?”

“It’ll probably last a few minutes, an hour at most.”

Scratching the back of my ear, I joked, “Well, here’s to hoping the king is around.”

The servant entered with fancy clothing in his arms. “Ah, these are made with silk, imported from Mundus. The dye they use have the most exquisite color.”

“Exquisite? Freya, that word does not suit you.” I grabbed the clothing, feeling the roughness of my fingers catching the fine threads. I was given a black suit jacket, red dress shirt, gold tie, black suit pants, and hard black leather shoes.

“Please sir, let me know at once if the garment’s fitment is unproper.” I waved him away as I started changing. Pulling off my t-shirt, pants and shoes.

Freya signed and turned away. “If I wasn’t a soldier, I would have impaled you into the ground.”

“For what?” I said as I poked my head out of the collar of the nearly buttoned up dress shirt.

“Don’t… there are buttons that need to be undone on the shirt.”

“Oh, this is faster.” I buttoned up the two buttons I undid.

“I fear for your offspring.”

I let out a chuckle.

Freya led me towards the district owned by the church where Mirth’s orphanage resided. It was heavily guarded, men in city guard uniform were led by men in black armor. Up close, the armor was a deep black with thin lines of gold and silver moving vertically down the entire length of the armor. Some wore black helmets only exposing their eyes, cheeks and mouth.

At the entrance towards a large cathedral like building we were stopped by two guards, one examined us with his mana connection before letting us in. We entered a grand foyer, large pillars of marble reflected off the glossy floor, ahead 4 meters there was a raised platform at the top of beautiful granite stone steps, there was an opening to the left and right of the platform leading towards separate hallways.

“Welcome, Warrior Bona, High Mage Knight Freya.” A robed man noticed us amidst his large workloads. The church was converting the Foyer for a fellowship, food lined the tables by the walls, each pillar had a circular table attached at the bottom of it.

“Hello, minister.”

“Allow me the humble honor of leading you two to the ceremony.”

“Thank you kindly.” Freya said with a nod.

We were led down the right hallway, at the end we stood in front of a pair of large double doors guarded by another pair of black armored soldiers. They held spears with a large pummel at the bottom of the shaft. As we approached, they watched, I could feel the warmth emanating from them using mana. They opened the doors for us once we were 10 feet away, their mana usage stopping as soon as they touched the handle.

“This is as far as I can go.” The minister bowed and walked off.

“Be on your best behavior.” Freya warned me after returning the minister’s bow.

The room we entered reminded me of a classroom, or training room. The sides and the end of the long room were raised, 3 steps led to a U shaped platform. It was relatively wide, Freya led us towards the far end where Maggie and Iliana stood at attention focusing on the raised platform ahead of us with an empty large seat. I stepped up to the left of Maggie as Freya joined a group of 5 knights dressed in similar armor on top of the platform, behind the chair.

The sides of the room had evenly spaced pillars of clay, with 8 black armored soldiers, each standing between a pillar against the wall. I spined around looking at the pure white walls, the tall ceilings with 3 rows of thin strips of windows squeezing the sunlight that lit the room. I saw Maggie in my peripheral as I spun, taking in the sights.

“What you glaring at me for?”

“Bona, this is a ceremony. Remember JROTC… stand at attention.” I gave her a quizzical look before shaking my head. Maggie decided to ignore me and focused ahead.

There was a door to the left, a second entrance, it had one guard standing slightly off to the left of it. Staring at the ground, listening to the silence of the room, I felt a yawn creeping up. My right hand covered my mouth as my face stretched into in exhausted yawn. Maggie looked as if she was about to retort my actions but stopped herself.

On the platform the princess was taking her seat, her eyes meeting mine. I finished my yawn by wetting the inside of my mouth. “Howdy.” My hand left my mouth, going into a weak wave.

“Insolent. How dare you?” A royal guard scolded me to my left.

The princess lifted her hand to silence the guard. “Lady Freya?”

Freya stiffened up. “Yes, your highness.”

“My father had other business to attend to.”

“Understood.”

“Now, Warrior Bona, your instructor has offered a great deal of information. I understand the three of you have…”

“Skipping introductions?” I felt the entirety of the room glare at me.

“No, he is correct. I cannot expect my warriors to serve a nameless princess.” The princess cleared her throat. “I am Theodora Astra, daughter of King Lithin Astra, and the late Corina Astra.”

An innocent smile crossed her face as our eyes met. “I understand you have been summoned from a world of peace, that some nations war not for survival but petty reasons. Even in war, there are greater powers observing and delegating what a nation can and cannot do. Our God has summoned warriors of peace.”

The royal guards mumbled and groaned. One of the knights behind the princess tsk at this news.

“Your highness?” A knight on the far right spoke. His armor marred, dented, and a logo of a large shield carved into his breast plate.

“Yes, High Mage Knight Bulruck?”

Bulruck took a step out of line and turned towards the princess. “Are we to believe these peaceful warriors can lower the death count of our men? Are they capable?”

“Knight Bulruck! I suggest you silence yourself. How can you expect them to fight for a kingdom that offers them no faith in their skills?”

“Knight Freya, I have seen battles unheard of in this world in these last seven years, creatures incomprehensible. Your men guard the rear, your men offer back up, I have no doubt in your training, but can they take on giants? Can they even kill?”

“Knight Bulruck, Coelum is a God that understands things we can never comprehend. Show these warriors respect, and kindness, as you would any man fighting alongside you.” Bulruck returned to his post.

“My apologies your highness.”

“I deserve none. Direct your sincerity to those you’ve offended.”

“Warriors of Coelum, and of the kingdom, I apologize for my misconduct.”

“Thank you.” Maggie whispered.

“We appreciate the concern you show for your men. It’s honorable.” Iliana said, earning a smiling from Bulruck.

“Tell me, Warriors do you wish to fight?”

I looked over at the two to my right. They couldn’t look the princess in the eyes as they replied, “Yes, your highness.”

“Thank you. Being appointed as my family’s warriors does not grant an easy life. I sincerely thank you.” Theodora’s smile was too perfect, too coordinated. Did she have to practice that smile under an iron heel? Its one of the things I can never understand about fame, having to practice your smile, your talk, your lifestyle.

“Ah, Warrior Bona, what is your answer. The kingdom will hold no grudge if you deny.”

I played the girl’s reply in my mind, hearing the princess’s words along with it, a feeling they agreed to something they didn’t truly want set something ablaze in me. I took a few steps towards the princess. Three Royal knights blocked my path, one stood right in front of the princess, two baring their spears at me.

I knocked the right spear aside with a hand and kicked the other guard’s spear aside, the guard to my right tried to sweep my feet with his spear, I jumped up, kneeing him in his unarmored face. His head reel back from the strike, his balance didn’t falter.

The pummel of the guard to my left aimed high trying to catch my chest as I fell, I caught it with my hand on the way down and elbowed him in the face before being shoved back by the other guard. Regaining my balance a few feet away, I ran at the guards, using the momentum to jump and slam my knees into them.

Their spears reflected my kinetic energy, I bent back and flipped to land on my feet.

“No mana.” The guard on my left yelled and slammed his spear into the ground. All the other guards in the room copied the motion.

I bit my lip, all I wanted was to talk to the princess face to face. Fine, if they want mana, I will use mana, this fancy, smancy outfit is already ruined by everything I’ve done already. I got into my martial arts stance, paying close attention to when exactly my mana activated, it wasn’t until I bent my elbows with hands near my chest that I felt the warmth enveloping my body. I put as much torque as I could into a straight kick, aiming for the royal guard’s leg.

I saw the mana silhouette hit the spear, it shined in a blue light brighter than my mana silhouette. He blocked my mana with his own.

“Mana creation.” The other guard slammed his spear into the ground twice. “Mana strengthening, Mana manipulation.” They slammed their spears into the ground four, then six times, it was hard to count as the speed in which they moved their spears was unnaturally fast. As their spears hit the ground, a surge of warmth spread throughout the room, the floor rippling like disturbed water.

The guard I attacked started going on the offensive, as I was occupied defending and dodging, the other two guards switched places with two different guards. I caught the spear of the guard attacking me and pulled it out of his grip, smacking him in the face with the pummel. He spined to the right, trying to slam his left fist into my skull, I ducked and stuck the spear under his arm and around the back of his head, throwing him into the ground. Before I could knock him out, the other two guards were on me, we traded blows with our spears as the guard I knocked down regained his footing.

The two I was fighting shined with mana, their spears pummeling mine, they were using mana strengthening. I sensed that the guard I knocked down earlier was aiming a punch at my spine, I quickly spin as his fist drove past, then knocked the spear coming from left into his fist. But before the spear hit, it shrunk, mana manipulation… he was manipulating his weapon.

I got some distance between us, and the guard without a spear backed off, as another stepped forward.

“ENOUGH!” The princess yelled. The guards disappeared from my sight, reappearing at their empty posts. Relaxing I dropped the spear, before it hit the ground, it was wrapped in a blue light, stopping it mid-fall, before vanishing and reappearing in the hand of the unarmed guard.

Taking a deep breath at my utter defeat, I continued my journey towards the princess. I stood standing over her, not more than 4 feet away.

“I understand your disdain, but am I offered no courtesy as a person who’s taken the royal name?”

“Ain’t anything special about you or your name to me.”

“Interesting.” Before I could react to the mana surging around her, I was thrown back, hitting the wall above the door. The impact on my back made me feel sick, the room was sideways, maybe all that flipping around got me nauseous. Why haven’t I fallen, I was at least 14 feet above the floor. Iliana, and Maggie turned and attempted to rush over to me.

“Iliana, Maggie, hold!” Freya voice reverberated in the air, stopping them as they stood staring at me. Come on girls, leave me alone. I smiled at their stupidity, why can’t they understand I brought this upon myself, don’t worry so much about me.

“To suffer so much and still wear a smile.” The princess stood, the royal guards lifted their spears off the ground, ready to move. “To give my royal guards so much trouble.” She took a step, the royal guards took a step forward. “Hold, return to your posts, this man is no threat.” The black armored men stepped back at the sweet, innocent voice of the small girl, returning their spears to the ground, standing like a statue.

The princess walked towards where I hung on the wall, the heels of her shoes clicking against the stone floor. I wouldn’t mind staying here, a show of how mighty royalty could be. The thought made me chuckle as I stared at the other side of the wall, waiting for the princess. She stood 10 feet away, looking up her eyes beckoning mine to look at her.

Instead, Maggie pointing at me caught my attention, Iliana’s eyes widened beside her. What was so surprising? Of course, I’d get my ass whooped by the princess. I looked at the princess’s face, she looked more like a general than a princess, except for the purple and white dress.

“What was the question that burdened you?”

Ah, playing the nice cop. “Send…” I tried to speak but my voice rattled some interior injury. My body flinched at the pain, making me push my back against the wall.

“My apologies.” The princess bowed her head. A warm sensation ran over my body, I felt my insides repairing itself. A relief too great for me to keep silent washed itself over me, leaving me in a chill when she was finished. “Now…, you were saying.”

I cleared my throat. “First, let me begin my three-part apology by saying, I’m jealous. Second.” I lifted my head and looked at my body. “Will, we’ll save that for when I’m down. Third, my request, send Iliana and Maggie back to our world.” The two looked at each other, then at me shaking their heads.

“Interesting.” The princess turned towards the girls. “You two did seem hesitant in your replies. I’m sorry, understand, we are not forcing you to fight, please my Warriors, do you wish to fight for my kingdom?”

“I… I’m afraid of what’s to come, your highness. I’m afraid for the battles we…” Iliana’s eyes glanced at me for a moment. “We two will have to fight.”

The princess began walking back towards the large chair, as I was pulled off the wall by some invisible force and gently brought to the floor. “Warrior Bona, return to Maggie’s side.” The princess calmly asked.

“What about the second part of my three-part apology?” I asked as I dusted off the fancy clothing.

“Bona, you have failed me greatly.... Young Dora, do what you must.” Freya said from the other side of the room. The princess nodded, she didn’t look up, rather her head dropped when she was addressed. Freya wore a warm smile, keeping her eyes on the princess, till she turned and sat.

The princess’s gaze was on me as I stayed by the door, leaning against the wall. Her neutral face made me feel guilty, she was trying her best to remain calm, and I was being a jerk for the sake of it. Gently the princess asked, “Warrior Bona, are you alright? If you need more healing speak up.”

“Princess, when can I leave?”

“As soon as we are done. First, I would wish to explain the role of a Warrior of the king. Please, can you follow my orders till we are finished?”

I obliged and lazily stood beside Maggie, her eyes on the dagger at my hip.

“A warrior is a friend of the king, and his family. My father sends his apologies for not being able to attend. Your roles grant you a stipend of 2 gold pieces a month, freedom to leave the kingdom’s borders, exemption from most laws, and free acquisition of any merchandise sold by Astrum citizens. The mana that surrounds a person can be used to identify an individual; it takes a mastering of mana sense. The Warrior’s mana will be branded with the Astra family name, any who sees you will know your importance, and your strength.”

The princess turned her attention to me. “Warrior Bona… you… you will not be given the rights to have your mana connected, nor will you receive a physical medal to show those who cannot use full mana sense. For my sincere apology of our God acquiring you from a world bereft of wars, and warriors, I will grant you the benefits of Warrior.”

“Why?” Iliana asked before covering her mouth. “My apologies your highness.”

The princess smiled at Iliana. “Theodora is fine…” The princess put a hand to her chest, bowing her head and closing her eyes with a deep breath. “Have you three been informed as to how one ascends to the throne?”

“Beating up the little guy?” I joked.

“No, your… Theodora, we haven’t.” Iliana said.

“Theodora, can you reconsider, we need Bona with… us.” Maggie asked.

“I’m sorry, Maggie, I cannot, for the sake of the throne, and the kingdom. It’ll make sense with my explanation…”

“I’m… yeah hey, I’m really sorry, but can we speed this up? Also, what about my request?” The princess ignored me.

“Kings, in a sense are elected, like your presidents. Our church does what it can to aid the world, not just our kingdom. Before Terrarum suffered, citizens of Astrum would enter small villages, towns, people who may have need in any of the kingdoms on this continent. Their deeds were recorded, confirmed, and brought before the church. It is a rule based upon one’s charity, if a friend of the king, a Warrior of the king were to cause mischief, to provoke and undermines all he encounters, it may deter the church from our family, leading to our dethroning.

“But, Maggie, Bona is still recognized as a Warrior… ah, Warrior Bona, that depends, will you fight for us?”

I looked over at Maggie and Iliana, their focus was on the young girl sitting on the throne. “If… they are out there risking their life, I’ve no doubt that I’m fighting for them.” My eyes narrowed as I turned to the princess.

“Interesting, rather than a populated kingdom, what have you been through?” Her gaze turned to side as her thoughts wondered for a second. “Ah, a matter for a different time. Bona, we have no ways to send them back. Reverend Mirth has inquired of us beforehand when you first arrived. The only answer Coelum has given is your strength from your weaknesses must be found. Coelum believes you three have great potential to save our world, and yours, but you must learn what you have forgotten.”

That seems to fit with the conversation I had with Bob.

“Let us begin. I will bestow upon you two the royal name of Astra. Before we depart, I have a feast prepared for celebration. We will meet again tomorrow to arrange for your expedition into Terrarum. A portal has been suspected of recent disturbances to our southern boarders, we have lost 1 knight to the creatures that attacked. But details will be given in full in due time. Guards, call upon the clergy men.”

“Yes, your highness.” The last guard to our left, closes to the door exited the room.

“The men of God will endow you with the Astra name, the process will take a few minutes. Afterwards, we will eat, drink, and be merry for the night.”

I raised a hand up. I heard Freya groan as the princess stared at me. As I waved my hand, the princess finally answered, “Warrior Bona?”

“Ah, yes, is this after party mandatory? Do I have to stay? It seems like I’m not needed anymore? I’d really like to get back to the palace for some rest.”

“No, you are allowed to leave.”

“Thanks.” In the middled of turning, Maggie’s hand grabbed my arm.

In a whisper only audible to those around her she asked, “Bona… please stay, this is the last time I will beg… ask of you for something personal, I swear. But please stay till the ceremony is done.”

“Yeah doofus. This is important to us.” Iliana leaned over with a smile.

“Yeah, no problem.”

“Warrior Bona, are you staying?”

“I’ll stay till the minsters are done.”

“I feel as if your presence will sour the mood.”

Iliana fought back a smile, but loss. “Was that a diss, um, insult at the doofus.”

The princess giggled. “Yes, a diss, indeed it was, Iliana.” The princess’s eyes landed on Maggie staring at the ground. “Maggie, you are awfully quiet.”

Maggie looked caught off guard as she quickly raised her head to look at the princess. “Ah… I’m, yeah, I’m sorry.”

“No, no, it is no problem. But you’ve really only spoken to Iliana, and Warrior Bona, do I frighten you?”

“No, your highness…”

“Uh-ah.” The princess held up a finger.

Maggie let out a silent laugh. “I’m sorry, Theodora, it’s just I don’t have much to say.”

“I understand.” The door to the left opened, three men in purple and white robes gracefully walked out and stood side by side to bow at the princess.

“Hmm. We only needed two.”

“Sorry your highness.” The guard bowed and returned to his post.

“No matter.” She looked to one of the robbed men. “Please minister, can you assist the other two with your mana connection?”

“Yes, Princess Theodora. May I ask who we are avoiding?”

“Warrior Bona.” The princess pointed at me.

“Yes, Princess Theodora.” The three men walked off the steps of the platform, two stood in front of Maggie and Iliana, asking them for their hands, the third stood behind them with his hands on their shoulders.

They prayed holding onto the girls hands, the bodies of all five engulfed in a deep, rich blue, nearly purple in color. I watched unnervingly, just because Freya trusts these people doesn’t mean I do. I can’t even fully trust Freya.

The robbed men didn’t speak outwardly in their prayers, the girls didn’t seem to react much. Their eyes were closed, their breathing normal, their face serene. I saw the mana flowing between the five of them, looking for anything I consider abnormal, whatever it could be.

Four minutes passed and the mana began letting up.

“Welcome to the Astra family, Iliana Astra, and Maggie Astra.” The robbed man holding onto the two others said. The three bowed and smiled at the girls before turning to bow at the princess. Theodora stood and bowed back.

“Thank you. May the God of Mana bless you.”

“You as well, Princess Theodora.” The three spoke in unison before walking back out the door they came from.

“Why did they call us by your last name?” Iliana looked at the princess.

“Iliana, you may address yourself as Amana in your private life, we ask that as a Warrior of the Kingdom of Astrum, under rule of the Astra family, that you use the royal name.” Theodora smiled, using her hands to pat down her dress as she sat.

She closed her eyes and placed a hand to her left temple, putting her right hand up, catching the attention of the knights and guards. Nearly two minutes passed, she raised her head up, taking a deep breath with her left hand on her chest. “Lady Freya?”

“Yes, young Dora?”

“I’m sorry… I’ve just been informed that we lost another knight at the border. Knight Honora passed fighting a long battle with a group of… Goblins. They have broken their treaty with us.” The princess began flaring her nose, breathing heavily.

“Give the order, your highness.” Bulruck boomed. “My frontier squad will descend upon them with the fury of Coelum.”

“Frontier squad?” Maybe it was the way I asked, but everyone’s fury turned to me.

“Silence you impotent, heartless beast.”

“Whoa, Mr. Bullrump, calm down.” I had two hands up in surrender. He took a step towards me but stop when Freya spoke.

“We can discuss this later, Bona.” Her voice wasn’t pleasant, it was the voice she used when Maggie first overused Mana, and I didn’t rush in to help. It sent a shiver down my arms.

“Sure. Maggie, Iliana, you two feel okay?”

They both looked at me and nodded. “Princess… sorry, Theodora, are you okay?” Iliana asked.

“The loss of a citizen of this kingdom weighs heavily on me.” The princess stood. “Enough. Let us enjoy your ceremony. As previously stated, welcome to the Astra family, my sisters, and Warrior Bona.”

“Make sure they don’t get hurt.” I sneered, turning to leave.

“Bona…”

“Maggie, no, you need to remember, try your hardest, okay?”

“Tomorrow, 8am, return to the city, to Freya’s home.” The Princess spoke softly but her voice boomed in my ears.

I lifted a hand up quickly to signal that I heard before leaving.

Thinking about the princess, she looked more like a young soldier, clean face, sweet, almost childlike. Short black hair just passed her shoulders, but it wasn’t cut to perfection, when I stood near her, I saw where she had the hardest times reaching her hair for a clean cut. Her clothing had loose threads here and there as well, the sewing wasn’t straight, but unnoticeable to someone focused on her status. In any case, I know not to mess with her, or Freya, they’d kicked my ass in a heartbeat.

I undid the knife on my hip and looked it over again. I miss them, but they seemed happy. Maggie wasn’t so focused on trying to keep me under control, Iliana seemed more decisive and took initiative. I know it is the right the choice, they don’t need me. But I am not letting the horrors of this world lay its claws into them. This world will not beat them, because it will be too focused on me.

“Bona… you inquired about the frontier squad?”

We were in Freya’s home, in a large room with a large oval table, the princess sat at one of the ends. Wearing a t-shirt, and tan buckskin pants that hug her legs tightly. Her hair tied into a short ponytail. I sat to the right of the princess, staring at the thin window on the wall behind her, letting in a little bit of daylight.

“Bona, young Dora is speaking to you.” Freya’s first words to me today were harshly spoken. I looked straight ahead at her, tilting my head.

“Bona, are you planning to join Knight Bulruck’s squad?” Victor sat to the left of Freya.

The edge of the hard sole of my shoes caught the gap of a wooden board as I slid it against the floor. “Explain to me… what is this frontier squad?”

“They are the front-line fighters, and supporters. They will travel 1 or 2 days ahead of the expedition force.” Freya quickly explained.

Why did that sound so perfect. A way to set things up for them. But that Bulruck character seemed like a strict bastard, working with his men may put their lives at risk. “Maggie and Iliana, they’ll be in the rear?”

“Yes. Warrior Bona, can I ask a personal question?”

I nodded at Theodora. “I spoke to them for some length of time yesterday. What do they mean to you? How could you have spent many years departed but retain such loyalty?”

“Loyalty? I’ve done nothing but push the people I love away, as it should be. The things I’m willing to do… I don’t want it to hurt them.”

“Ah. Victor, lady Freya, I have heard your opinion on warrior Bona, but I’ve noticed one thing you’ve missed.”

Freya thought about what that could be. “Young Dora, continue.”

“It is not our place to pry, maybe we should continue onto more important matters.”

The princess seemed to have a difficult time looking Freya in the eyes. “Thank you, Lady Freya.” She looked at Victor, “Knight Victor, a little detour wouldn’t hurt. Now, what we have seemed to miss is that Warrior Bona doesn’t know anything about women.”

“What?” I couldn’t help but race my mind through what I said, looking for what prompted her conclusion.

“Warrior Bona, your choices, if you remained with them, may hurt them. But leaving them, so you can pursue your bad decisions is a thin veil, just because they may offer you what you’ve begged of them, it does not erode their feelings for you.”

“Okay. I know that the things I do, whether with them or not, will affect them. That’s just common sense. If we stay apart, their feelings will fade, and they’ll forget me.”

“My lady, I believe Bona has little innate social abilities, but I believe in him.”

Freya made a curious sound as she looked at Victor.

The princess gave a small chuckle. “I will arrange for you to depart with Bulruck’s squad. They will be leaving the city tomorrow. Lady Freya, we need to set up a meeting for the High Mage Knights to speak of the diplomacy with the goblins.”

“Yes, young Dora.” Freya stood. “Perhaps after meeting with my expedition team?”

“That will do.” The princess said while looking at the table.

“I’ll head home and pack.”

“I’ll accompany you. If you will be fighting with Bulruck’s men, your expedition will be more self-reliant. Though I’m sure his men will show… will depending on you, they may assist you.” Victor stood, bowing towards the princess and Freya before exiting.

I remained seated, thinking about the names on the lists, how do I get them to talk? The princess pushed her chair back to stand, as she walked to the left, her foot caught the chair. Freya quickly stood in front of her and held her up. “Ahh!”

The princess yelled, pushing Freya off. “Young Dora, I’m sorry. I-I couldn’t let you blemish yourself.”

“No-no, I’m sorry, Lady Freya.” The princess took a few steps to the side, walking behind her chair to push it in. “I… I’m sorry you had to see that.” The princess looked at me with a weak smile, this one didn’t seem practiced.

“Yep. I’ll get going.” Freya glared at the ground, both arms supporting her weight as she leaned on the table.

“Lady Freya… I…”

“Stop, young Dora… I know, I understand.”

The situation couldn’t be more blissful. I can make it so those two can be safe. I know we can’t kill every monster, whether human or not. But at least 24 hours to make sure their path is not over burdensome? Thank you, if you had anything to do with it Bob.

“You may have to hunt, fish… oh, be sure you are prepared for making camp. Also, be prepared to make a fire, purchase a flint and steel from the shopping district. Hmm…”

“Victor, I get it, I’m packing for a long backpacking trip. I spent 5 months out in the mountains back in my world. Only difference is I had food shipped to me and my friend while on the trail. But with mana storage, I can store my bow, arrows, knives, and sleeping supplies without having to physically carry them around.”

“Technically, you are carrying them around. It isn’t the end all traveling spell, Warrior Bona, the more you store in the mana, the more it weighs on you. Like the gravity you feel from overusing mana, have too much in your storage it will affect you in the same way. Some knights would use that setback for training their core strength.”

“Didn’t know that. Anyways, get back home, watch Emily, okay?”

“I… I’m bringing…”

“Don’t say it.”

Victor took a deep breath. “She desires change.”

“Fine. She can do as she pleases.” My eyes wandered to the wardrobe where I hid the pills. “Victor… if… if Emily had a way to rid herself of the morbid feelings eating away at her, what would you do?”

“I’d be the fool that swam through the earth. If I could help her… I will, same for anyone.”

“Hmm. Then…”

“But what Warren said. I cannot agree to that, so in the case of ridding her of these feelings, I would do everything I can to help her overcome it. Freya said it best, grief changes us, for bad, or for good. But when we lose someone, we need to embrace that grief, learn from it, let it mold us into better soldiers, better people. If we fall, then those who have found the steps to force their grief into submission need to guide their fellow soldier. Emily is going through much grief, disrupting her nights.

She’s spoken to Paul, he woke up some time ago. Paul must have said something she needed to hear, though it occupies her mind too often. I promise, I will help her find those steps to free her from her morbid feelings. But what I mean to her will never be enough.”

Those pills stayed in the wardrobe. I could’ve made some excuse to have Victor give them to her despite what Iliana said, but if he learned their purpose, he’d dispose of them. I signed shoving the last of my clothing into my pack.

“Tomorrow, what time?”

“I believe Bulruck’s men are planning to leave by sun up, around 6:50am, the princess will certainly postpone them. Arrive in Capella by 6am. Return to the church where you first met her, that was where she planned to wish the knights well before they set off on the journey.”

“Okay, I guess I will need to head back to Capella later today. Pick up a flint and steel, possibly some scraps from tailors, and food for the road.”

“I’ll head back then.” Victor waved a goodbye as he walked out of my room.

Walking up to the kitchen, I heard two servants speaking.

“Do you think it’ll ever be normal?”

“Our home is gone, my mother would never just stop…”

“Hey, hey, if it’s too much, don’t talk about it. Wait till you’re ready.”

“I… dang it, I want to go back, make sure.”

“We’re not even supposed to mention to anybody that Segola is still up and running.”

“I know, I know. I’m sorry, it... it’s just been bugging me.”

“It’s alright.”

After I heard the knife hitting the cutting boards, I walked in.

“Ah, Warrior Bona, hello, sir, how can we serve you?”

“What’s the food situation?”

“We have some root vegetables, some cheese, but livestock, and fresh veggies are scarce… Will that be enough, sir?” The servant stopped his explanation when I signed.

“Yep, just roast the vegies and melt some cheese over it, I’ll eat it.”

“Yes sir.” They immediately ran into the pantry and pulled out some veggies, the other servant took some cheese out of the magic item for food storage. I headed for the large dining hall, sitting at the edge of the middle table, looking up at the tall ceiling. The palace was too quiet, since Warren’s been discharged, the servants assigned a new leader for themselves, and he seems to be too much of a pushover from the state of things.

I ate the food and headed back for Capella. A flint and steel wasn’t hard to find, but none of the tailors offered any scrape materials, claiming they kept it for repair purposes. I could’ve forced them to give it over, but it would’ve been too much of a hassle. I held on to all the clothing that I’ve ripped, they’ll do for starting fires.

He walked in, his men filing behind him, their movements precise and infallible. His eyes picking mine out from the small crowd, those cold, angry eyes. His rough, patchy facial hair, his armor only catching the light here and there gave him a gritty look.

“Your highness, we are honored to have you with us before my brave soldiers depart in their service to you and Astrum.” He bowed, his armor creaking.

“Thank you, your highness.” The 20 knights behind him followed, their glistening armor nearly silent as metal slid across metal.

“Knight Bulruck, the brave knights of Astrum. I have a request before you depart.”

Bulruck must have noticed the backpack I carried on my back. I adjusted my cap, armor, and the ornate dagger at my hip, as he looked at the princess. “Yes, your highness?”

“Warrior Bona will be joining your ranks.” I hope this doesn’t drag on, if he keeps staring at me, I might just test my luck with him.

“Your highness, do I have any say in the matter?”

“If your reason is good enough to persuade me, I will reconsider.” We were in the same room where I first met the princess. She sat in her seat, me to the right of her, and 6 royal guards spread evenly along both sides. Knight Bulruck and his men stood at the center.

“My soldiers are experienced; they have fought countless battles as a unit. Training for the good of our kingdom. Are we to expect an unexperienced man to lead my soldiers because of the title he holds?”

The princess turned to me. “Warrior Bona, do you have any words to defend yourself?”

I slid my left thumb under the strap of my backpack, nibbling on the inside of my cheek. “Well, I’ll be frank, I hold no titles. And was I expected to lead? Sounds like a real pain in the balls.”

“Watch your tongue!” Bulruck shot back.

Blinking slowly, I looked at him emotionless.

The princess put a hand up. “Knight Bulruck, I have no intention of putting Warrior Bona in charge of your soldiers. I fear if he took charge, your men’s lives will not be considered. Knight Alvara has my full trust.”

“Your Highness! My honor and pride are in the soldiers I lead.” Alvara stood tall on the left corner of the squad, it pissed me off how uppity she seemed.

“Before you depart, have a meal, the road ahead for will not favor you. Allow me to humbly feed you in peace before you tread in the depths of Terrarum’s trouble.” The picture of chickens raised in large cages came into my mind. When I worked on a farm, I learned about how much weight a chicken needs to put on to be considered profitable as I stared at them in their large cage. I couldn’t help but snicker at the idea that these disciplined soldiers were being treated like livestock, fed in peace before the slaughter.

“Knight Bulruck, take some time with Warrior Bona before you join us.”

“Yes, your highness.” He bowed, before turning. “Knights of Astrum?!”

“Yes, sir!”

“Raise your swords!”

The sound of swords unsheathing from leather scabbards dressed the atmosphere in the room, the clang as those swords banged into the knight’s armored chest deafened the room.

“For Astrum, for Astra, for the people!”

“Sir Bulruck, Princess Theodora! As head of the frontier, the love Coelum has for all will be made known unto the stars and moons!”

“Glory to life, glory to Astrum, glory to the God of Mana!” The swords clang against their armor once more.

“Men, at ease, it is time to eat, drink and be merry. We head out in 1 hour.” The soldiers sheathed their swords, turning and filing out. Bulruck signed and turned to me and the princess. “1 hour enough time, your highness?”

“More than enough, Knight Bulruck. Now, I’ma “hang out” with the knights.” The princess stood, her blue and purple dress swaying as she took the three steps to the lower floor. “Thank you for obliging me.” The princess spoke softly as she passed Bulruck.

He turned to look at her with a warm smile and nod of the head. “Don’t put the thought in my men’s heads that they oughta stay with you.” The princess chuckled as she hustled towards the exit. An intense heat along the side walls erupted before circling the princess. Two guards zapped in front of her opening the door, four straggled behind her.

“Warrior Bona… tales of your… charisma are abundant.” His steps pounded into the floor, we stared each other down, my arms crossed.

“Ah, you’ve heard all the good news.” My hands slipped into my pockets as I lightly stepped down.

“You will not give orders. My men will do everything they can to keep you alive. Take this as school time for yourself.” His voice was low and methodical.

“I’ll do, what I do.” I signed and looked away. “1 hour of you badgering me.”

“Your fight with the royal guards was impressive. I will not deny your skills. But you are fighting along side my family.”

“You know, a great man once wrote, a person near death sees themselves as diamonds and rubies. A captain of a boat had a sailor climb a mast, a giant wooden pillar. This sailor, in the middle of a storm climbed the mast to repair a sail and clung to the branch where the sail was affixed, he was afraid to lose the diamonds inside of him.” I traced the veins on my hands and forearms.

“What does the sea have to do with this?”

“The man fell. He cracked his head on the ships deck. The other sailors tossed his corpse into the sea and washed those precious rubies and diamonds overboard. Tell me, was that sailor worth as much to you as rubies, and diamonds, as swords and shields. Do you feel any lingering sadness at the loss of worthless life, as he clung desperately to save what was precious to him?”

“It is true, all life doesn’t burden me. I’ve taken the light out of men’s eyes, women too. They were bloody, and long battles. But I feel nothing as their… rubies, and diamonds flowed over my blade, onto my hands, and drenched the dirt. But they were my enemy.”

“Victor’s scars, his eye, Warren’s deceit, Terrarum’s fall, what caused these foils?”

“My men did not... Must they journey with the likes of you.” He shook his head. “I understand the root of all those incidents were the whims of evil people. But there are those who sees the rubies and diamonds in all, till they can make out the imposters. You have turned all men into monsters, no, into worms. Where there are jewels, you see nothing but the blemish upon them.”

“Blemish runs deeper than that.”

“Why fight for Warrior Iliana, and Warrior Maggie?”

“Because blemish runs deep. They saw my… It-it doesn’t matter.”

I walked past him, heading for the foyer.

“Warrior Bona. The frontier squad has no quartermaster. Pick equipment up from your enemies if you can. Food, water, and rest are things you may have to inquire by your own means. I have advised my men to attempt preventing you from spilling innocent blood for those means. But if you refuse, they will oust you. Alvara will handle setting things up for the Expedition squad, do not interfere in her duties.”

I stopped a few feet behind him, twisting my body slightly to look back. “Why aren’t you going?”

“A High Mage Knights duties are to train our apprentices, and appointed knights, along with being the last line of defense for the royal family. Since we can out power any foe, the royal family keeps us within the borders. Believe me, if I could fight alongside my men, if I could eliminate those damned portals myself, I would.” He turned, walking past me. A voice within told me to make amends, to make comrades. Yet, I picture the dead surrounding me, I picture the knights caging themselves from me, these thoughts washed away the silent desires as I walked towards the Princess’s banquet.

I sat at an empty table, Bulruck spoke with Alvara, her glance aimed towards me once or twice as I watched them from across my table. There was laughter, conversations about wives, daughters, sons, friends, craftsmen. The princess let out a loud laugh as a knight smacked his fist into the table with a scrunched face, holding a small cup in his other hand.

“Now how do you expect to find your destination in drunken state. No more drinking.” The princess recollected herself and healed the knight. I guess the princess really wanted everyone in a good mood, like fatten chickens before the slaughter. I remember that honored rule, don’t let the other chickens know, keep them happy.

After taking the last slow bite of my meal, I decided to depart this familiar atmosphere. Leaving my plate, my drink, and the church, I waited by the gate till we were ready to travel to the southern lands.

“Ah, you’re here.” Alvara sounded annoyed.

With a wave I looked at the horses the knights mounted. “Am I sharing a mount?”

“Nope, princess has one prepped for you, she’s waiting at the stable. You have 5 minutes.”

“Leave. I can follow your sloppy tracks.” The squad of knights trotted out the gate, some of the horses were packed, saddles only capable of seating one, with an extended 10 feet concaved wooden platform behind them.

The princess stood by the stables, looking towards me. She held a bag in her hand, royal guards dressed in black with a solid golden line crossing their chest stood on either side of her.

“I’m here for a mount.” The princess put the bag up in front of me, her head slightly tilted with her eyes narrowing in on me.

“Warrior Bona. I had some food packed for your journey, leftovers from the sendoff ceremony. You waited for hours alone?”

I grabbed the bag and using the back end of my left hand on her shoulder, I tried gently pushing her aside. The sound of the blunt end of the royal guard’s spear whipping towards my chest didn’t surprise me, I caught it with my free hand, feeling it hit the callus on my middle finger.

“Call off your posse.” I hissed.

“Hector.” The spear was pulled out of my hand and returned to the side of the royal guard. “I’m sorry, I was blocking your way.” The princess stepped off to the left.

I entered the door, removing my backpack to shove the bag in. I hopped on the horse, and left through the stable gate, stopping in front of the princess and her guards. “Princess, give my first payment to Alvin, tell him he can keep the change.”

“What? How much is he charging you?” She shook her head. “Also, you don’t have to pay him… will officially you aren’t my Warrior, but I’ll speak to him about…”

“Shut it. Pay him.” Instead of anger, the princess looked confused as something occupied her mind. The sound of the guards’ armors shifting as their spears threatened me was annoying. I shook my head as I ordered my mount forward, heading for the gate.

Alvara and her squad had left, I was alone as I followed the path in the early morning sun. The hills surrounding the city blocked any view I could’ve had of them. Based off the disturbances on the road, it was reasonable to assume they were going at a good speed, I had no choice but to follow at a slow pace to avoid following the wrong tracks.

The general location was known to me, but I had no map, no knowledge of this world. I had to rely on these tracks. As the sound of the horse’s hooves pounded the empty road, a smile crossed my face. For the first time, I was finally alone.

Roads straight, path clear, is there reason to the stumble?

Anchors grip the Rocky bottom my soles imprint, skies shine only in God's holy light.

What has passed lingers and what is to come brings questioning.

Before me, paths set in smooth pavement asking submission to their riches, the silent path rugged in its justification.

If God controls, then bring restraint. Trembling feet trod to and fro.

Horrors befall the good heart, does love repay not?

Choices was taught, what choice has been taken?

Can they change, if lightened from the burden of loss, and hopeful in the light of love?

Excerpt from “Poems of Bona Gallio”