Kai snapp

Kai snapped awake; a cold sweat beaded his brow. Labored breaths irritated his dry throat; shoulder burning from residual magic left by the curse branding. Heart drumming against his chest.

Tiredness overtook him the moment he regained composure. As though he’d gotten no rest at all. His mind fogged. Erasing the visions that startled him from memory. Heavy eyelids threatened to allow sleep to steal him away. As they fell shut the hinges creaked, and the heavy slam of wood soon followed.

His visitor approached his bedside. Footfalls quiet, but not silent. Without a look, Kai asked, “What do you want, sister?”

“Just checking in,” Vivian said. “Glad to know you’ve finally awoken. You had us worried, brother.”

“How long have I been out?”

“A little over a full day.” That helped explain the growing hunger pangs. It had been some time since he went that long without a meal. “Mira made sure to change your bandages every few hours, though I convinced her to let me do it this time. But since you’ve awoken, do you need anything else?”

“Water,” Kai managed to croak. As his twin went to fetch him a drink, he found the strength to sit up. His belongings had been neatly stacked in a chair at the bed’s foot. Vivian returned with a pitcher of ice water. Before she could attempt to pour a glass, Kai stopped her. Requesting the entire pitcher at once. As she surrendered it, he smiled, “Thank you, Viv.” Kai greedily gulped. Downing half the pitcher before he pulled away to breathe. Already feeling better.

“Is everyone ready to leave?” he asked before finishing the pitcher off.

“Not quite,” Vivian answered. Taking a seat next to her brother. “Jorn arranged an airship to take us back to Arasta. But it won’t arrive until sometime tomorrow. Until then, we’re free to do as we please. He also requested you come and visit him.”

“Did he explain why?”

“He only said it was important. Outright refused to tell me. Does the bastard not trust me?”

It hurt to but Kai couldn’t help but laugh, “I imagine this has to do with his request. The one where he’ll find out who killed our father so long as we leave him alone.”

“A dangerous deal. Do you plan to take it, brother?”

“Viv,” Kai sighed, “I, I really don’t know.”

A knock at the door was followed by the arrival of Mira. Now that she was there, Vivian took off. Leaving the two alone. As Vivian left the room, she called back to her brother, “I suggest getting that meeting over with. We don’t need any more trouble than you’ve already caused us.”

Mira stepped aside to let Vivian through. Gently closing the door behind her. Gliding across the room, Mira pulled a chair up to the bedside, “I’m glad you’re awake. I—We were worried.”

“My sister told me you helped care for me,” Kai kept his gaze averted. “Thank you for that. Truly.” The two of them sat in silence. They hadn’t been alone since the night Kai confessed to her. He stole a glance at her the same moment she did the same. Both their faces flushed red. Come on Kai, he cursed himself, you can fight demons. This should be easy. Both situations caused his heart to drum, but this was different. There was no thrill or fear and that was what made it so difficult.

“I’m sorry,” Mira spoke. “I didn’t mean to overhear your conversation. But, when did Alister die?” Her question caused Kai to take pause. Mouth held open. “Sorry, I shouldn’t have asked that.”

“No, it’s fine,” Kai reassured her. “I just,” he grabbed hold of his blanket until his knuckles paled. “It’s a difficult memory for me. It was ten years ago. The Aranea, they attacked Hamal and spared no one. Me and Viv, we barely escaped. Though neither of us know how.”

Mira’s eyes shimmered with tears as she listened to the story. Kai told her about how the two of them struggled to survive at first. The hardships they faced just to find their next meal.

When he was done, Mira had only one question, “Why did you take the job from Percival?”

“I had no choice,” he relented. “The night before we left Arasta, I tried to trail them. Find out who he was and why he was willing to lose as much coin as he did. And after getting caught, I was beat. He gave me a choice. Run the job, or die. And the branding was for good measure.

“But Percival doesn’t know my past. Gaining his trust might help me take him down one day. In the end, this might have been beneficial.” Kai turned away and swallowed, “We should celebrate. Just the two of us, like we agreed.”

“Huh?” Mira asked.

“When I get back from visiting Jorn, the two of us. We should spend a night on the town. If you want.”

“I’d love that.”

Kai met with Jorn in the estate gardens. Wildflowers had been planted into a spiral of blue, pink, and yellow; a pond in each corner. At the center of the garden stood a statue of the being who acted as the namesake for the Syndicate. An angelic woman whose lower half was a spider. In one hand she held her divine spear, in the other rested the Eye.

“Beautiful, isn’t she?” Jorn asked as he gazed upon the form of Aranea.

“Why did you want to see me?” Kai asked. Never once looking over the spider goddess’ effigy.

“I wanted to know your answer. Shall we continue to be secret partners?” Jorn had Kai follow him from pond to pond. Each one housed exotic fish that he fed. “Your father’s killer in exchange for my life.”

“If you provide useful information,” Kai said, “I can look away for a time. But I won’t promise we’ll never come for you.”

“It’s a start.” Jorn then pulled a red envelope from his vest. Black wax sealed it shut, the Aranea marking imprinted upon it. He handed it to Kai, “I would also like to request you deliver this to Percival when you reach Arasta.”

“Since when did I become your messenger?” Kai still took the letter.

“It’s too dangerous to send one of my men. We still don’t know who sent those shadows, or if they’ll return.”

Kai shrugged, “He’ll get it. If that’s everything, I’ll be on my way.”

That evening Kai left his room at the inn. Trading away his usual leathers for a black silk shirt and trousers; a burgundy vest embroidered with ornate golden patterns that resembled vines. His usually unkempt hair brushed back and tied into a short ponytail.

He’d found the outfit sitting on his bed when he returned from his meeting. A note attached to them. Torrik had been sent to purchase the outfit under Vivian’s orders.

In the common area, Kai found Mira waiting for him. She wore a violet gown—black lace sleeves trailed down her arms and framed the neckline as it dipped just above her cleavage. The hemline stopped just beneath her knees; black stockings were worn to hide the remaining exposed flesh.

Though the gown was far from revealing, she seemed to be uncomfortable in anything less than the priestly robes she usually wore. The outfit had likely been picked by Vivian. Torrik was nowhere to be found. Likely he retired to his room or had gone out drinking. Vivian had stayed with Mira until Kai arrived.

“So, my brother can clean up well,” she said with a sly smile. “And here I thought making a gentleman out of you was impossible.”

“I’m choosing to ignore that,” Kai said. He stepped to Mira’s side and looped his arm around hers, “Shall we go?” Mira answered with a nod, and the two were ready to go.

Vivian caught Kai’s attention before they left. A hand on his shoulder, she whispered, “Father would be proud of you tonight. And so am I.”

“Thank you, Viv,” he whispered back. He hadn’t realized it, but he’d been using his childhood nickname for his sister more often. He tried not to think about it at that moment, as he wanted all his focus to be on Mira for the evening. Now if only I knew what to do.

The pair wandered through the city for some time. It was a warm night, quiet night. The pair settled on having dinner at an outdoor tavern called the Blooming Lotus. Each table had been sat beneath a wireframe arch overgrown with vines and flowers. Brass lanterns sat upon each table, sculpted into the likeness of animals. The table they had been seated at was illuminated by a sleeping fox. Silverware and glasses had been set before they arrived, making it easier on the servers.

Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

An elven woman in a dress woven from autumn leaves approached them with a pitcher of water and fresh bread. Her voice was sweet as honey, “Pleased to have you with us this evening. Have you dined with us before, or will you need to be informed of what we have?” When asked to, the woman recited all available meals to them. Mira chose to order a simple salad, while Kai ordered the salad as well as honey-roasted pork and spiced lamb.

“I hope your night is going well,” Kai said, pouring them both a glass of water.

“I’m enjoying myself,” Mira answered. “Though, I don’t know if I’m supposed to do anything in particular.”

“I don’t think so,” Kai shrugged. “But you aren’t the only one unsure.” The two shared a laugh. “What made you decide to be a priest?”

“I was born to be one.”

“Do you mean it’s a family trade?”

“Right. My mother, and her mother, and so on were all priests. My family has received the Mother’s blessing for eight generations.”

“Did you ever want to be anything else?”

Mira shook her head, “Not at all. Was your father also an archer?”

“No, neither of my parents were archers. My father was actually a skilled mage, and my mother trained with swords.”

“So then, what made you choose to use a bow?”

“I never considered why,” Kai admitted. “One day I shot an arrow and completely missed my target. And when Vivian laughed at me, I grew frustrated. And I kept trying until I could at least hit a target. And since then, I’ve always had a bow. Though, I did learn to fight with knives from my father. He told me to never limit myself to one weapon.” Mira seemed amazed to hear his story. “Have you ever thought to do more than what your family has?”

Mira shook her head, “I’ve never felt like I chose the wrong path in life.” Kai smiled as she then went on about her life in Tir’Ava. Rolling hills and towering mountains in a land of eternal spring. Magical creatures a common sight. No rarer than a red fox or brown bear.

Elven cities carved right into the forest itself, the night sky filled with dancing flames of unusual colors. The more she spoke of her homeland, the harder it was to think anyone would want to leave such a place.

When their meal arrived, smoke still rolled from Kai’s lamb and pork. Both fresh from the spit. Each salad had been made of a mixture of lettuce and spinach leaves. Topped with shredded carrots, onions, beets, and olives. Whole baby tomatoes sat atop the pile of vegetables. Kai removed the half dozen or so tomatoes from his meal.

Mira took each one. Unable to hold back her laugh, “I didn’t take you as someone who refused to eat something.”

Kai glared at her, “There are some things only a starving man can eat. And that’s one of them.” He winced as she took one of the tomatoes and popped it right in her mouth. “And here I thought it was against the Mother’s teachings to hurt someone.” The two of them shared a laugh at his joke.

After dinner, the pair found themselves before an amphitheater. Despite the recent attack on Karo, many had gathered. Filling the audience quickly, leaving Kai and Mira in the back. Forced to stand as they watched.

For the show, the performers put on a rendition of The Monster Mage, an old tale of a warrior mage who only used the spells of the monsters he killed. Kai paid little attention to the play—having seen the show many times over as a child. Mira on the other hand was completely sucked into the performance. Laughing at every joke, and getting teary-eyed with each emotional beat of the story. She even joined in with the crowd to jeer at the actor playing the fallen hero who betrayed the lead.

Mira let out a terrified gasp. Kai broke from his thoughts to find out what was wrong, only to be relieved when it was just in reaction to the play. The actor playing the lead was laid out on the ground, desperately reaching for his prop sword. Meanwhile, the traitor stood over him gloating.

“Our poor hero has fallen,” the play’s narrator wept. Pacing in front of the crowd, lip quivering as though he were going to cry. Of all the performers, he seemed to be the best of them—or at least the most invested in his role. “Whatever shall we do? The world is doomed!” From behind the backdrop rose a woman dressed as a faerie. Her golden gown flowed in the wind as she passed over the crowd, a misting of glitter released from her satchel.

“Dear viewers,” she magically amplified her voice, “I have bestowed my magic onto you. Cheer now for the hero and give him your strength. Help save the kingdom.”

The actor playing the traitor turned to the audience, “No! You cannot save the hero. I have won! You cannot take that from me. Or can you?”

“Cheer now,” the hero’s actor said, still acting as though he couldn’t reach his sword. “I cannot do this alone.” People in the crowd, and Mira, all began to call out to the hero. Screaming at the top of their lungs.

Mira looked to Kai with wide, teary eyes, “We have to help him.” Red-faced, Kai reluctantly gave a half-hearted cheer. Mira seemed to be pleased with his efforts as she continued to cry out at the top of her lungs. He continued alongside her despite his embarrassment. He could only hope she wouldn’t talk to Vivian about this.

“No,” the traitor called out. He slapped his hands to his face, “Your love, your friendship: the hero’s strength is returning. I must stop this now.” The actor drew his sword and approached the fallen hero. “By my blade, die!”

“My power,” the hero grabbed his sword. He went to block the attack but missed, causing them to have to reposition themselves. “You all have given me the power to win. Go, Dragon Spell!” Stagehands came from the side. A massive paper dragon that was crudely prepared hid all but their legs as they crossed the stage. Dragging away the villain with them.

“Curse you,” the villain shouted in an over-the-top manner. Everyone but Kai ate up the performance.

Kai faked a laugh, “Well, that was—”

“Great,” Mira perked up. “I’ve never seen a play before. Are they all this good? Do you think we should see if they’re putting on another show?”

Kai cocked his head, “You enjoyed it?” He wanted to tell her that what they had just watched was mediocre at best, but Mira was enjoying herself. He could see the actors setting up to start another show. He needed to find a way to prevent Mira from wanting to watch the next performance without hurting her feelings.

“How about we find the book,” he suggested.

“The book?” now it was Mira who had a cocked head.

“The play was based off an old fairy tale. I bet we could find a copy of it somewhere.” Mira’s eyes seemed to light up at that idea. Kai then saw her looking towards the stage. A longing look in her eyes. “But we can watch the play again if you want.”

While they had put on the same show, the lines, and action scenes had differed between shows. Something Mira had been enraptured by. Which only fueled her desire to find the book. Wanting to know what the true story was like.

The pair found themselves at The Yellowed Page, a used bookstore not far off from where the play had been put on. It was a quaint little shop nestled between a tailor and an armorer. Rather plain on the outside, and cluttered within. Books were haphazardly stacked on tables as well as in the middle of the floor. The towering shelves were disorganized. Some books flipped backward. Others lay on their sides. In some cases, the books were double-stacked.

“Can I help?” an elderly orc woman greeted them from behind the counter. Mira froze when she saw the woman. “What a pretty elf,” the woman continued to smile. Visiting from Tir’Ava, or are you Valstrom born? Oh, it doesn’t matter. Always nice to see an elf in my store.”

“An elf?” echoed a gruff voice from the back room. An elderly orc man stepped out. A smile on his face, “Why, your eyes are working. Pleased to meet the two of you, I’m Gher and that’s Gedta.” Mira quietly shuffled behind Kai. Pressing as close to his body as she could. Gher was oblivious to her fear, “How can we help you?”

“We’re looking for a copy of The Monster Mage,” Kai answered. “We just saw the play, and I thought she might enjoy the original version.”

“The Monster Mage?” Gher rubbed his chin. “We might have a copy of that.” He reached for a jar on his belt. Uncorking it, a ball of green light rose from the container. He said the name of the book to the light, and it fluttered off. “Follow that and it’ll show you where the book is.”

“Go on,” Kai urged Mira to follow. “It’ll be fine.” She hesitated but followed the light. Kai stayed behind with Gher and Gedta.

“Not often we see an elf,” Gedta said, “but rarer we meet someone who’s been blessed by a phoenix.”

“Huh?” Kai asked confused. “I’ve never seen a phoenix before.”

“You must have,” Gedta retorted. “No other way to get eyes like yours.”

“Like mine?” Kai placed a hand just beneath his left eye. “I’ve always had these, same with my sister.”

“Gher,” Gedta turned to her companion, “do we still have books on phoenixes?” Once again, the orc man released a ball of light and sent it out into the shelves. Kai was urged to follow it. He did so if only to humor the orcs. It was difficult to maneuver through the loose books piled all around. But Kai never lost sight of the light.

His breath misted before his face; goosebumps crept up his arms, a shiver down his spine. Standing across from him was the Night Weaver. She motioned for him to hush as she placed a book down atop a nearby pile. Black leather bound the cover with no visible text.

Heat returned to his body and she was gone. But the book remained. His heart drummed as he felt a desire to take what she had left behind. He reached for it.

Mira let out a scream and the tome was forgotten as he rushed to her side. He found her two rows over with her arms defensively over her head. Books scattered open around her feet as dust was kicked up. Among the books was a snapped shelf. He was relieved she was safe. Only an old shelf breaking under too much weight.

“Are you alright?” he asked while picking up the fallen books.

“Yes,” she answered. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to cause trouble.”

“Don’t apologize,” Kai finished collecting the scattered books. “You aren’t hurt, right?” He placed the books off to the side and turned to her. There were no visible injuries. And in her hands was the book they were after. “Ready to go?” Mira decided to continue to browse through the books. Finding three more volumes that caught her interest.

As Mira talked about the books she had chosen, Kai began to zone out. Her words a muffled whisper in his ears as the Weaver once more appeared to him. In her hands that same black book. Words trapped in his throat as she stepped to him. Gently placing the book into his hands.

“What’s that?” Mira asked, her voice breaking him from his trance.

Kai looked the book over. Wondering how it came into his possession, “I’m not sure. The orc’s light guided me to it, so it must be what they wanted me to read.”

Paying for their books, the pair thanked the elderly couple and went on their way. By now the streets had cleared out. Only those making their way home remained out. Mira had already begun to read through The Monster Mage. Pointing out all the differences she noticed between the show and the actual work. When she compared Kai to the traitor, he felt a bit embarrassed. Though her enjoyment kept him from protesting.

Roars like thunder echoed over the horizon. Startling Mira, pulling her attention away from the pages. Scarlet flashes danced through the clear skies. Over the horizon appeared the silhouette of a massive creature. As it drew nearer panic settled into the hearts of those who witnessed its arrival. A legendary beast, the most powerful in all the lands: a dragon.

Moonlight reflected from its silver scales. Wings alone eclipsed the market district of Karo. Glass shattered and whirlwinds whipped up clouds of dust; a single beat of its wings summoned storm winds. Kai grabbed hold of Mira and guided her underneath a nearby colonnade. Dust drifted from the ancient stone but the structure held sound.

From there, they watched as the behemoth flew off towards the northern end of Karo. “It’s ignoring the city?” Mira questioned. “There’s no record of dragons nesting here, so why did it come here?”

“The ruins,” Kai answered. “We need to get back to the others, now.” The pair hurried off toward the inn. Kai pushed his body to move quicker than he’d ever run before. Pausing only once he realized Mira lagged behind. As he waited for her to catch up, his attention lingered to the horizon. The Brimborne brothers came to mind. Dammit, he grit his teeth. Let them survive.