Never

Peace
By Lexus Browning

Copyright 2016

-I give thanks to my mother, father, and very energetic brothers. I

also give thanks to my friends and those people in my summer
creative writing class

A synonym of immortal is a star

Much like a star, immortals live a long time
But not forever, no matter what people say, immortals die someday,
somehow, whether it be at the hand of a similar being, animal, or the
end of the world

Prologue
Part I
There once was a goddess that took notice
in the war of the human race. She could not
bear to watch it destroy itself, for she was Ren,
The Goddess of Creation. So she created a land,
a land in which she made immortal people that
would stop the war. But instead the immortal
people, who were called the Rennions,
established an economy, and when mortals
moved to the land the immortals became the
powerful, and mortals were reduced to mere
commoners. Ren barely had any power left, for
she used it all creating those people. So, she
decided to watch how this land, later named
Allion, would turn out. She watched perching on
a small, faraway star.
War.
The mortals caused a rebellion and there
was a small war. The mortals were helpless and
backed down but in the process the Rennion King
and Queen were killed and it was up to the three
remaining sons to take over the land. Then that
war was raged, this war had a name, the
Successors War. The last one standing of the
brothers was one named Felix. But in the
process of this war, every last Rennion died
except for Felix, or so he thought.
Felix went on to marry and have three
boys. Those boys were the first Rennions in a
long time. The mother died giving birth for she

was a mere mortal. Those brothers were a

miracle to have survived, and they each gained a
power. The first son, Aeolius, was given the
power of the gunner, a weapon that included
archery and soon to be something even more
powerful. His aim exceeded all and he taught his
army, that was given to him by his father.
The second son, Felix, who was named
after his father, was given the power of a thin
and dangerous bland called the sword, which he
also taught his own army.
The third son, Achmetha, was given the
power of the human body's strength. And he
taught his army martial arts. He was the last to
be given an army.
Soon, the king had a daughter with a new
wife, who also died giving birth. This daughter,
Aida, was not given any gift and she was angered
by this. Her hate went toward her father, for not
giving her an army because of this, and she
wanted revenge and rule over Allion.
Ren had been watching the war before go
on, and she was near the end of her life, so she
created an orb, and a prophecy to go with it. The
orb when it was awakened would give the user
immense power over all magic that Ren had.
Arcane, Light, Dark, and Elemental. The one to
activate it had to be of the royal blood of the
Rennions. If one should activate it then there
would be a reincarnation of Ren, all of Ren's
power would be given to that person, and that
person would become Ren, and watch over Allion
and maybe finally cure the land.

If anyone were to kill someone with the

power of the Orb, then the power would be given
to anyone within a radius except for those related
to the person who used it.
Aida found this Orb deep within a cave,
when someone showed it to her. She never saw
that person again, and she gained the power of
the Orb.
She finally has the power she needed.
With this power she killed her father in his
sleep, and can you guess what happened? The
power was given to people of the land, and it
would be dormant inside them until they
awakened the creatures inside. She waged war
against her brothers with these magical mortals,
after she told them she could lead them. She
won this war, and the land was split into four
parts, with her faction as the governing.
This is the history of this story, and now,
history will be complete through the eyes of
someone very special. The person who led Aida
to the cave was no ordinary man, so he daughter
was no ordinary girl, and soon you will see how
Ren's legend plays out.

Prologue Part II
My name is Audrielle, my name has the
meaning of strength even though I am mentally
weak and cowardly. But after the incident with
my mother I began to change. I found a secret
within myself, a secret that became my fear, my
strength, and also the enemy.
It got my friends in danger and one of
them lost their life to my stubborn foolishness
and I keep it as a reminder, and that has made
me stronger. My friends that are with me today
help me through hard times and they make me
stronger. The memory of my mother, her smile,
her crazy attitude, and the many important
lessons she had taught me that only someone
who has lived a hard life can teach, has made me
stronger. My companion through life, Keoat, who
started this wild bumpy wagon ride, who has
always been at my side and has watched over me
even though he has always had problems of his
own, he has made me stronger.
So my name has the meaning of strength,
but this strength is not mine, it is all of these
people, and all of these things that have made
me strong. So my name is not the meaning of
strength, it is the meaning of my friends and
familys strength and kindness.
You will not understand unless you know this
story, the story which I am about to tell you.
This takes place when I was weak, and you will
see this story is not mine, but is the story of,

Keoat, Rekin, Magia, Yei, Zelan, and many

others. I will start at a peaceful time when I
knew bad things were coming, but my mind was
elsewhere of where it should have been. A girl
just trying to figure life out.

Chapter 1
I layed up against the tree trunk looking
at the stars through the dome of branches. I
havent really thought of an appropriate name
that would not take away from its beauty. I
dont like to label things, and things dont like to
be labeled. But a name that would catch its
essence, if only a little bit. Would be...The Star
Catcher. I just sat there trying to find a peace of
mind.
I heard footsteps approaching, and I
placed my calloused hands on the cold dirt and
grass, lifting me up and I jumped on my feet,
then kneeling. This part of the forest is one were
lots of runaways would be, us being so close to
the border. I looked around for a weapon as the
footsteps got closer and my heartbeat quickened,
it jumped all the way into my throat and my
breath was caught. Closer they came, quicker
my breath. Then, I was relieved to see who it
was.
I let out a relieved breath. Keoat dont
scare me like that. He came inside with a weak
smile plastered on his face. Keoat, whats
wrong? He didnt answer. He just slowly came
over and sat down next to me and I relaxed,
sitting back down as well. He kept his head down
and thought of the words to say to describe what
had happened.
But he said something else. Audrielle,
your mom wants you home. I squinted my eyes

and raised my eyebrow knowing there was

something else on his mind.
Keoat, whats wrong? I asked again,
this time with more force in my voice. He shook
his head and a rare tear slide down his face.
My sister is gone. He wiped the tear off
his face as he tried to be strong, like he usually
did. I set my head on his shoulder and cried for
him, I knew he wasnt going to. He was to
strong for that. A peace of mind, huh? I wonder
what thats like.
Keoat, you can stay with us now. You
have no reason to stay with you're Stepfather
now. He looked at me right in the eye for a
moment, but then looked away and shook his
head no.
I couldnt do that. More tears slide
down my face and I looked him right in the eye.
You will stay with us...I want to do
something important for once. Do you remember
that time when you carried me on you're back
when I twisted my ankle? And that time when
you stood up for me when the other girls where
making fun of me when we where little? You
joined the army, you became the assistant to the
commander of Spathi, and you took care of your
sister after your mother died! Let me take care
of you, please. You need someone to do that for
you every once in awhile. I let out a breath and
then crossed my arms waiting for him to answer.
He was in a surprised state, he wiped the tears
from his eyes.
Ok. He answered. I blinked in surprise.

Just, ok? Really? You're going to give

in? You usually put up a fight? I rambled on.
You're going to let me pay 300 terans
every week. He smiled getting up and ruffling
my hair. Thats the Keoat I know. I nodded and
he helped me up, I blinked the tears away and
we left the beauty of the Star Catcher to go greet
my overprotective mother at home. It was a
long walk of silence back to my house. The kind
of silence that makes your deepest thoughts
arise. The silence I try to avoid.
Once we arrived at my house I hesitated
to open the door. So, I knocked so she could
cool her head while coming to the door. Once it
opened I flinched which caused Keoat to giggle.
Where have you been? Mr.Harper was
nice enough to give me a lamb chop, and I was
nice enough to cook it...and you let it get cold. I
gave her a weak smile.
Im sorry mom. You dont have to
forgive me for a thousand years but I have a
favor to ask. She scoffed.
A favor? And what would the favor be?
She leaned against the door frame with a very
pissed look still on her face.
Can Keaot stay with us for awhile. His
sister
She put up her hand to stop me. Of
course he can. Now come and eat dinner its
getting dark outside. I gave her a hug and she
pat me on the back of the head.
She sighed with a weak smile. I swear,
sometimes you are still like a child. We went

10

inside and then I saw the food, still steaming on

the table.
A small grin appeared on my face. I
thought the food was cold? I said sitting down
at the table. My mother was making a plate for
Keoat.
How long have you been my daughter?
I didnt answer. Forever. Exactly. When youre
with Keoat you're late. Since best friends all
always together, you are always late. So I
usually start dinner at a later time now.
Well...thanks mom.
Yeah, you're welcome. She said putting
Keoats plate on the table.
Thank you. He picked up his silverware
and started eating. As silence filled the room as
we all ate. What comes with silence you ask?
The things that you bury at the back of you're
mind. Keoats sister died from illness, the same
untreatable illness my mother has. Keoat joined
the army in hopes of having special access of a
treatment for his sister. We would go to the
biggest hospital in Spathis Capital, my mom and
I, but we dont have the money. Thats why I
want to join the army, to get enough money.
But if Keoat lives here, then soon enough we will
have enough money.
Audrielle, can you hang up the laundry
while Keoat goes to pack?
Can I go with Keoat to pack? I asked.
If Keoat doesnt mind you're company.
She gave me a grin and I took care of the plates.
Then Keoat and I left to go pack.

11

As we where on our way I thought of

something.
Things are going to be different from now
on. I commented. He thought for a moment.
Yeah, I guess they are. But we never
expected things to always stay the same, right?
As long as we look at life and its events as a
glass half full, then we will always come out
okay. He smiled. Things are going to get better
from here, money to move my mother into the
best hospital in the Capital of Spathi, Keoat will
get enough money to find his own place. Maybe
the army will finally accept someone with my
weak sword skills.
When he finished packing we headed back
down the dark empty streets. Today was the
birthday of our land, Allion. To celebrate this
everyone closes down their shops and turn off all
their lights so the star that Ren rests on is the
only light that shines down.
When we got back I showed Keoat to the
guest room and then left him to unpack his
things. I was going to read, but found that my
eyes would now stay open and I just fell fast
asleep. I guess today was one of the tiring days
of the year.

12

Chapter 2
I awoke to the blinding light
coming in through the window and it seemed like
it was going to be a splendid day. I went into the
living area to see my mother gone, I assume she
went to the market which was extra busy today
due to everything being closed yesterday. Maybe
I would teach Keoat a few things about living on
a farm.
Goodmorning. He said coming down the
hallway as I was making us something to eat.
Goodmorning. You should put on some
clothes you wouldnt mind doing some farm work
in. I smiled at him, putting some bread and
fresh fruit on a plate for him and some for
myself. I ate while cleaning the house a bit, my
mom deserves a little break from work. Then we
went outside to feed the animals.
After awhile I started to get worried.
Dont you think she should be back by now?
Keoat looked up from a bucket he had been
washing. He gave me a reassuring smile.
Im sure shes just caught up in the busy
nature of the market today. I nodded but a
worry still nagged me all the way back to the
house. I then decided I couldnt take it anymore.
Keoat, Im going out to go look for her.
I said getting some shoes on and some sort of
coat to go into town with.
Well then Im coming with you. He told
me getting his boots on.

13

We headed into town in a rush, we went

to all of our family friends houses and no one was
there, all of them where empty. I started asking
people going through the market if they had seen
her and none had. Then I heard someone calling
my name and I looked behind me to see
Mr.Harper running toward me. Keoat and I
started heading toward him, he was coming from
the direction of the town's...hospital.
Miss Audrielle...your mother collapsed
when she came to pick up some meat from my
shop and right now shes in the hospital. He
told me, trying to recover from running.
Is she okay? I asked worriedly.
I dont think shes gonna make it. I
couldnt think now, I just wanted to get to my
mother. How did this happen? She seemed fine
yesterday and we finally had a plan to get the
money, she cant die now while were so close.
When I got there I figured out where our
friends and family friends were. I ran into her
room, one of the only occupied room in the
hospital, us being the smallest town we there
aren't many people so there is not very many
sick people. Thats why everyone helps everyone
out us being the smallest town in Spathi.
Mom. My voice shakes and quivers and
thats all I can really say at the moment. She
gives a weak smile, her smile was lively before
this, like she forgot she was sick. Now her smile
shows sickness, she has been able to smile
before, that still surprises me.
What happened. I asked her afraid of
the future, it never seeming clear anymore.

14

Mommy is going to have to leave soon

honey. She said softly, Im guessing she cant
speak any louder.
You're coming home right, you're talking
about leaving the hospital because you're going
to get better right. My words were showing my
defiance. She cant leave, she just cant.
Honey, please dont make this harder.
my mother pleaded, close to tears. I need to
tell you something, please listen carefully. Im
sorry I didnt...didnt tell you sooner but I knew
you wouldnt understand. Youre a special girl,
and the army doesn't like people that are youre
kind of special. I wish your father was here to
teach you but sadly hes not with us anymore. I
couldnt teach you because I dont know anything
about it, so if something happens youll know
why. Your father was a kind man, and very
special. He passed on his specialness to you,
please if you read the letter your father left you,
then you might not be confused. Its in the box
in my room that I told you not to open, I will
always love you. Im sad I wont see you again.
tears rolled down her eyes as she brushed my
tears from my face.
You are my special little girl, no matter
how old you are, I will always watch over you, no
matter what you do, I will always love you, no
matter what path you go down, I will always
guide you, please be happy, and its ok if you are
sad, just dont be sad now, I want to see you
smile one last time. she was crying then.
I couldnt smile. It was the most
impossible thing at the moment. I dont think I

15

will ever be able to smile again. I heard Keoat

and Mr. Harper came in but my eyes stayed
focused on my mom. I sat there stupidly, tears
streaming down my face, they were hot and salty
and made my face sticky.
My mother's hand that was held to my
cheek, fell to the bed. I could not speak, I
couldnt even move. I was completely frozen and
I didnt know how I would be able to do anything
ever again. She has always been there.
When she got sick I just thought, why not
join the army to pay for it. My mom seemed fine
and stayed herself and so I just kind of forgot
about it and thought it wasnt such a big deal.
But now I wish I told her she to lay low and I
would do all the work, then maybe she would
hold out long enough.
Just maybe, just maybe...those words
repeated painfully in my head striking it hard
making me feel guilty.
Mom. I said softly hoping all she had
done was fall asleep for a few moments. Maybe
she was just tired. Mom, mom...mom...mom. I
repeated, Mom...MOM. I didnt realize that I
started yelling, not yelling screaming.
Audrielle, please calm down.
Keoat said from behind.
I stopped my movement and just feel like
I didnt belong in that room anymore. I felt like I
needed to leave and do something. Anything to
make this pain go away, even...no not that would
be too easy.
Happy is what she said, but I find that
very impossible no matter what I do, or how

16

much time passes. I got up at looked at my

mothers lifeless body, she died with a smile and
a tear still drying at her now pale face. I stared
at the sad teary eyes faces looking up at me.
I left there slouching and miserable. My
heart was aching and pounding and my face was
an ever-growing mess.
What I was going to do would make
everything my mother said make sense. But it
doesn't make me special, it just makes me a
problem.
When I got back to my house I
went straight to my mothers room and took out
the box, a tin box made of steel and not heavy at
all since I always thought there was nothing in it.
There really is nothing but a little letter sealed
with the sign of Mageia, which puzzled me. Why
would a letter from my father use the seal of
someone from the Mageia army?
I took the letter and went to the Star
Catcher, because that place is special and now
my home smells like my mother after she picks
berries from the berry bushes.
When I got there I sat down quietly
and thought to read the letter carefully and
quickly because I was sure Keoat was going will
be there soon. The letter said:
Dear my Audrielle,
I am sorry I am not able to help you but I hope you dont have
any problems with your powers. I knew that you would inherit my
magic, but since I am different from most people, it gave me powerful

17

magic and I knew yours would be strong once you started to use it and
you would learn quickly. The queen has grown jealous of the power I
have and wants everything under her control so I cannot stay with you
and teach you. I hope you will have grown up to be a fine woman like
your mother. Im sorry if you dont understand very well now but I am
from the Mageia faction, and your mother is from Spathi.
We lived in the littlest town of Spathi that is closest to the
Toxoulia border if you dont live there now. No one bothered us there
when I retired because they didnt think that there would be someone
who lived in the Mageia faction would be there. I bet you're wondering
how me and mom met, and I tell you its not the most wonderful love
story there is so dont be expecting much. I was a high-ranking army
member of the Mageia army and was picking up some produce from
Spathi that day because the queen wanted some of their berries but really,
just wanted us to check on them. I saw her running that inn by herself
moving about like the most hard-working worker bee you have ever seen.
Her inn had the best and biggest berries grown on the small farm that we
would both soon live in. She had a tight wit and was quick on her feet.
I fell in love with her right away and we spent many days together when

18

I would come to check on this town of Spathi, I always asked to take the
job of checking on that town.
I told the Queen I was retiring and she was against the idea
but she couldnt stop me. She wanted to know where I was going and I
think she wanted to keep track of me since I was so powerful but I
simply told her I didnt know. I disappeared into the little house in
Spathi your mother owned and married her. When we had you we knew
you were special because you gave your mom a hard time when she was
giving birth. She became sick but thats not your fault its mine for
falling in love with her. As you know the sickness eats away at you, and
now there is no cure but they are close. I hope that your mother survives
this illness, for the Queen has found me and said that if I am to be
executed then she will leave your mother be, but she doesn't know about
you and if she did she would kill you so I asked your mother to give this
letter to you when you were old enough so you would be safe. I love you,
and Im sorry, you dont have to ever forgive me for this but I just want
you to know I love you and will always love you. No matter how old
you are, I will watch over you. No matter what you do, I will always
love you, and no matter what path you go down, I will guide you. Please

19

be happy, and I will cherish the laughs and giggles I have gotten from
you since you were born.
Love, Your Father

By now tears were streaming down my

face and I was beyond confused. I wished I had
known my father, from this letter I know he is a
good one.
No matter what anyone says though, I
blame myself for making my mother sick.
I could never blame my father for
anything, there is nothing to forgive him for
doing. All I knew is that I hate the Queen.
Before I just thought she was unfair and greedy
but now, I hate her. She took my father away
from me and my mom probably had to use the
money my father had to raise me, and keep the
small Inn that she ran instead of treatments at
the hospital in the biggest town of Spathi.
We never got anyone to come from any
faction to get our berries, well at least I dont
remember. Those berries were me and moms
personal treat and we only give them to the
people we are close to in town.
Right now I wanted revenge, and to stop
the Queen from ruining anyone else's life from
her greed.
I went back to my house and gathered my
things and made sure that I sealed the letter
back up and put it in a cloth bag carefully. I was
going to leave now, nothing is keeping me here.
Keoat would be fine and when I killed the
Queen everyone would be free from her greed. I

20

am doing a great good right? I can do this

myself, and I dont want others to get mixed up
into this. But of course I took a little too long
reading that letter and packing.
Audrielle, are you here. I heard Keoat
call from the front door. I could escape through
the back and leave him a short letter.
I quickly took a piece of paper and wrote
that I was going to kill the Queen. Then I
escaped through the back and hid watching as he
read the letter as he picked it up from the back
steps. He looked confused for a moment and
then he had a panicked look.
I escaped quietly into the woods from the
bushed I was hiding behind and started my
journey.
I found a place to lay, tired from running,
by now it was starting to get late. It was a small
grassy area and I set out my wool blanket that I
packed and laid down pulling an apple out of the
bag. After I ate the apple I fell asleep and didnt
wake up until early in the morning.
When I woke up you could imagine my
surprise when Keoat was standing over me, a
very mad expression in his face.
What were you thinking. he yelled at me
anger turning to worry.
You dont understand I managed to
say before he cut me off.
Yeah I might not understand but you
must have had a good reason to say Im going to
kill the Queen Ill see you when I get back. but
Im pretty sure that youre just being crazy ,

21

stupid and crazy. he lectured me and I just sat

there not considering anything he was saying.
I pulled the letter out of my bag and
handed it to him, then I went back to my bag
and got out some dried apple. I just sat there
eating, not very happy at the moment, and I
dont think I will be happy any time soon.
So you might be angry because of this,
and I dont blame you for wanting to kill the
Queen, but this gives you no reason to just go
ahead and do it. he yelled angrily not
questioning anything about what my father said
in the letter.
If Im not going to do it who will? Im not
going to sit back and watch her ruin everyones
life for personal gain. There was a reason I did
not tell you because I knew you would be like
this. Just think for a secondif she keeps going
on than someday there will be a rebellion and
war, and people will die. So why not stop it
now?
You're going to get yourself killed? How
are you even going to do this. he questioned.
I dont care if I die as long as others get
saved. My life is not worth thousands of others.
I said.
Did your dad tell you this to get yourself
killed? That got to me, and I didnt know how to
answer.
I know something has to happen, to fix
this, so my dad is going to have to deal with the
choices I make from this.
I dont abide how he would want things, I
just listened to the problem he presented. You

22

cant stop me, and you know this. So stop

arguing and go back before anyone get
suspicious. I know that the townspeople know of
my magic, or else my father would have been
caught long ago so tell them to make up a story
that I died or something. I finally looked at him,
hoping he would listen to me, but I knew he
wasnt going to.
I know your minds set, so Im going to
join you. And, how are you supposed to get
through the gates without a military member of
high-ranking? He smiled as he helped me up. I
opened my mouth to defy and realized it was no
use. Both of us were stubborn and we both
weren't going to get our way so we
compromised.
If you're coming then I guess winging it
isnt going to be an option. I smiled weakly.
Nope, and I already thinking of a plan.
he grinned sitting down and taking some dried
apple out of his pocket. I guess he packed
before he came to find me, so he already was
planning on going with me if I wasnt going back.
You can never be as ready as Keoat.

Chapter 3
23

As I sat there waiting for Keoat to finish

the plan he apparently had, I decided to try to do
magic. I knew it was dangerous because I knew
nothing about it. Not including seeing guards
torture people on the streets who did something
the Queen was not happy with.
I wondered what the guards did, what it
looked like they did. Each guard took turns
which I thought was horrifying but each have
different magic. One guard seemed to use pure
energy through attacks, his attacks seemed to
have the most power of all the guards. Another
guard had the very wood the person was
strapped to, attack the person. Like it came to
life. The last guard that was there used water
from his satchel, and he also used fire from a fire
nearby.
I didnt learn that much about magic from
my schooling, so I was kind of in the dark about
it.
Keoat, wouldnt I need to learn about
magic to use it? I asked him.
Right when I said this he seemed to get
an idea. Thats it! One time I met with a retired
military general that was stationed in Toxoulia
and she is hates the Queen. Im pretty sure she
would teach you about magic. I think what she
uses is called Arcane, I think she can help you at
least get started. I have papers that will get me
and you through the gate, and I have never
taken a sick day in the army yet or taken any
time off, so if Im gone thats what theyll mark it
off as. But that wont work forever so we have to
be quick about what we do.

24

So were going to travel to Toxoulia and

meet this lady that wont arrest us?
He thought for a moment. Yeah, but we
are stopping by an old friend of mine who runs
an Inn. He we let us stay there while we wait for
a response from the retired general. Her name is
Genta, she lives by herself at the edge of
Toxoulia next to the Anthropina gate. I then
realized that I was given a sword and was
carrying it with me. It was left from my father
and my mother gave it to me after I was finished
with my schooling. I might not be amazing with
my sword skills, but I was decent enough not to
hurt myself, and hurt the enemy. I pulled out
the sword and looked at the red iron that always
mesmerized me.
Do you think sword is anything special?
Like my father gave it to me for a reason? I
asked. Keoat just shrugged.
We should start walking now, we only
have half a year before the army starts looking
for me, then you, and thats not including the
fact that they might check up on me. If I
disappear, and they find that you disappeared to
we are going to be in trouble and stopped before
we even started.
Then lets get going. I said getting up
and helped him up this time. The Toxoulia gate
was visible is the distance, it would take about a
day to travel there if we didnt make any huge
stops. I got an idea. Hey, Keoat.
What.
Lets race.
What?

25

Go! I took off running and got a pretty

good head start before he realized what was
going on and started running after me. I knew I
was faster than him, but he was always trying to
prove that he was faster. Its the one thing I am
better than him at, and since I am a girl he
always gets embarrassed by it. I ran about four
miles before I got tired enough to stop, or had
enough sympathy for the huffing and puffing
Keoat to stop.
He looked up at me seeing that I wasnt
actually that tired. You could keep going,
couldnt you. I gave him a wink and took out a
canteen of water.
If we keep on running we might get there
in less than a day. If youre up for it. I smiled
at him tossing him the canteen of water. He took
one long gulp before answering.
I think that we...should...walk the rest of
the way. He said through labored breaths. I
sighed.
Fine, Mister we dont have much time.
I grinned at him. Its funny seeing his face puff
out when I tease him. Hes been like that ever
since we were kids. It made me laugh, thinking
about the small Keoat. I used to be so much
taller than him, and when we where really little I
would stand up for him. But after we became
teenagers I guess he started looking out for me
and now he is the one I depend on.
Are you okay Audrielle? He asked
seeing me spacing out.

26

Fine, just think about the past. He

sighed and came and pulled me into a hug.
Keoat, what are you doing? I asked surprised.
Just being a friend. I sighed, returning
the hug.
Thanks.
No problem.
We started walking then, and it took a bit
to catch out breath, more like for Keoat to catch
his breath. There really was no path, so when
some of the trees where to tall we had to guess
we werent getting off track and getting lost,
letting out a breath every time the gate was back
in sight. But the trees cleared quick, and it
started getting hot, really hot. Soon we knew we
were within hours of the gate due to the
humidity. Toxoulia is mostly desert, the climate
can change very quick around here. That is one
of the wonders of Allion. It ignores the climate of
the rest of the world and is just split up into four
parts of different climate. This place was created
by a goddess to be the perfect land after all. Or
thats what people say. Its like our own little
world in this country, and the other countries
dont like it. So Allion has made enemies.
Were almost there. Keoat said,
pointing to the gate that was clear in the near
distance.
I then started to think about what we
were going to do once we were there. What are
we going to do once were there? Just knock on
the door and ask to come in to another faction?
I have papers, my status can get me
through each gate except for Mageia with one

27

other person. I then remembered him talking

about that and let out a sigh in relief.
Then what are we waiting for, lets go! I
then started running toward the gate, keoat
cursing behind me as he slowly got up to a
running speed.
We then approached the gate, there were
two guards posted to the front, and two high up
in towers above us. Keoat shuffled around in his
bag as we approached and I realized that there
was no turning back. After we enter here, we
need to be careful, or we will be executed. Keoat
made up some lie to why we were there and then
showed one of the guards the papers. The guard
nodded, not a hint of suspicion due to how good
of a liar Keoat is. Then the gate opened slowly,
and then once there was enough space for us to
pass through it stopped and we walked through
into the town of Rel, the smallest in Anthropina.
Here, these are to protect our skin from
the heat. Keoat told me as he handed me some
robes. I put it on over my head and over my
shoulders.
Im following you Keoat, lets go quickly.
He nodded and I followed him through the streets
to the place he was talking about. As we went
about the town of Rel I noticed there was a
different sort of market here. Instead of foods
like they do in Spalon, the town I lived in in
Spathi, they market gunners. Some were used
for archery and some were this new form that
shot small pellets made of teran at high speeds.
Seeing one now made me realize how different

28

all of the factions are, and not just the climate or

the use of fighting in the armies.
Keoat then stopped I looked up to see an
Inn called Never Dawn.
Is this where your old friend is? I
asked. He nodded and then went up and opened
the old wooden door and I followed him inside.
Inside of the Inn wasnt much of a temperature
difference than outside. I cant really imagine
what it must be like to live here all your life.
Keoat walked up to a plump innkeeper with a
long white beard that had apparent crumbs in it
that fell every time he stroked it.
Keoat my boy! What brings you here
today, and youve brought a lady friend! The
innkeeper exclaimed as I let down the hood of
the robe. Keoat pushed the innkeeper into the
kitchen and I followed him.
Hurley, I have a huge favor to ask and I
also need your word to keep quiet. If you try to
breath a word of this to anyone me, and my
friend, will be in danger and I hold grudges.
Keoat warned him as he pinned him against the
wall. The innkeeper looked over to me and then
back to Keoat.
You dont have to be so serious. I got
your back, you're one of the only ones who make
me laugh anymore. Hurley said and Keoat
released him. He looked up to Keoat with a
curious glare. What have you gotten yourself
into?
We need to see Genta, so we need to
write a letter, and then wait here for a response.
We are planning to take back Allion from the

29

Queen, but to do that we need allies. I need to

know that I can trust you to help us. Keoat had
a calm look on his face, showing that he trusted
Hurley more than he was showing.
Of course. While youre here I expect
some work out of the two of ya though. And you
didnt tell me you had a lady friend. Hurley
gave Keoat a grin.
Its not like that! The two of us
responded, a blush appearing on our cheeks.
Hurley gave a confused look and then seemed to
finally get it.
Oh! Youre the lifelong best friend
Audrielle! Keoat has told me so many stories of
you, its so nice to finally meet you. He said
coming up to me and holding his hand out for me
to shake. I took it and gave him a smile.
Its nice to meet you too. Then Hurley
took a good look around.
I think I could use someone on kitchen
duty, and Audrielle. A pretty face like you would
be a good waitress. Do you think you could do
that? He asked. I nodded and he went and
handed me an apron and handed Keoat one as
well. That leaves you to the kitchen. I know
you can cook, if you have any questions you can
just ask me. Keoat then went off to go cook,
and I stepped out of the kitchen to the main
room to go serve some customers. There were
only three that I saw, one had already been
served so I walked over to an old man and took
his order. He seemed like he was retired from
the army. But then I noticed from all the people
passing through that they all had an edge to

30

them. All ruff and easily irritated. Maybe

building themselves up that way helps them live
in this harsh climate.
It was dark by the time Hurley closed the
Inn for the night. He showed Keoat and I to our
room, Keoat had the one next to mine. Hurley
gave me a nightgown to change into. I noticed it
was much cooler as night took over the sky and
was filled with stars. As I crawled into bed my
hidden thoughts began to resurface, no matter
how hard I tried to push them back. Thoughts of
my mother, Keoats sister, my father, and what
what my father meant by him being different.
I searched my bag for his letter and pulled
it out and reread it again and again. Slowly, I
started to drift off in sleep, but its dangerous to
think sad, traumatic thoughts before you go to
sleep. Because then they come back in your
sleep, trying to prevent you from sleeping.
It was dark, so dark that when I looked
down at my hand, I couldnt even see a vague
outline. I looked forward, and I saw my mother.
She was sick, she was falling slowly, like time
had slowed. Once she hit the ground she would
be gone. I dont want to lose her again, it would
be all my fault. I tried to run toward her but she
just kept getting further and further away.
Everytime I tried to save her, I just got further
away. Everytime I try something, I fail. Then
her head slowly looked toward me. It was painful
that it was so slow, like you know something bad
is going to happen, and you just close your eyes
as your heart races and you wait for it to hit.

31

She then fell with a loud bang and I knew she

was gone.
I woke up with tears drying on my face
and my heart racing. I looked around and
realized where I was, and remembered why I
was there. I looked down at my father's letter,
and I put it on the dresser by my bed. I held my
hand to my head, trying to calm myself down,
and I then heard something. It sounded like
weeps, coming from the room across from me. I
got up and opened my down quietly, shutting it
gently behind me. I put my ear to the door and
listened. I heard silent cries from a child, maybe
not a young child, but not a teenager either. I
then heard footsteps coming toward the door and
I scurried back to my room and closed the door
quietly and went back into my bed.

32

Chapter 4
I woke up very tired from not getting
much sleep last night. The thought of the crying
child came right into my mind and I decided I
was going to ask Hurley about it today when we
write the letter to Genta. I changed back into my
leather shirt and pants, put on my boots and
combed my dark auburn hair. I put on the robe
but kept the hood down and then went down the
stairs to the main room. Keoat was there sipping
on some water and Hurley was cleaning the
tables. I thought I woke up early.
Good morning, there is some pie for you
in the kitchen if you would like some, and I plan
to make some cider later today. Hurley told me.
I smiled thanking him and went into the kitchen
and put a piece of cinnamon pie on a plate and
went into the main room to go sit down by Keoat.
I already wrote the letter, its been sent.
We should only have to wait about a day. keoat
told me. I looked up surprised.
You already wrote it?
Yeah, we need to move quickly and I
didnt want to wake you up.
Its fine. Youre a better writer than me.
I laughed taking a bite of the pie, finishing it off.
I then turned my head over to Hurley.
Is there someone in the room across
from mine. A child maybe? I asked him. He
knew who I was talking about right away and
was very hesitant to answer.

33

You dont want to go near that boy. He

doesnt talk to me really, his sister was murdered
and he just wandered over here after being
kidnapped. He killed his kidnappers, really
easily. He came to me covered in blood. That is
a very dangerous child. Hes been through a lot.
Ive taken care of him for two years and hes
barely said three words to be. Just, dont bother
him. Hes long gone, its to late now. Hurley
then shook his head thinking about it and picked
up our plates heading back to the kitchen.
Audrielle, dont think about it I know that
look. Keoat warned me. Knowing that I was
going to help that boy.
No one is so far gone you cant bring
them back. Its never to late. I told him.
You might get hurt. Remember what
were actually trying to do, were not here to help
all the ruined lives, we are going to stop the
source. He warned me. I just shook my head.
You know damn well I cant sit by. Im
not going to deal with this right now, we have
work to do. I then got up from the table and
went into the kitchen to put on my apron. Keoat
came in silently behind me, putting on his apron
and started getting things out to cook with. I
went out into the main room and a woman came
in, looking like she was part of the army, just
passing through. She ordered some cinnamon
pie and I went to get get her some. Just a few
more customers, just passing through for
breakfast.
It was getting around to be the middle of
the day when three men walked in, they seemed

34

to be drunk already, but looking to get something

to speed up the process to. They went and sat in
the corner and I walked up to them, ready to
take their order.
What would you like? I asked them,
trying to hold my tongue and not snap at them to
leave, giving them a forced smile.
Well what would you give me? One of
them said, his arm snaking around my waist. I
immediately stepped back out of reach.
Ill come back when you drunken idiots
are sober. I snapped at them and then started
to walk off when I heard a click and I knew what
he had in his hand.
A gunner.
I turned around to see an the man
standing up with the gunner pointed toward me,
a stupid grin on his and his buddies faces.
Now, come here or else you wont be
able to help anybody anymore. The man said.
I was about to take out my sword, which was
hidden behind my robe when I realized it would
raise suspicion from the people sitting at the
other tables, who didnt seem to really care.
I dont listen to people like you. You
should be ashamed of yourself. Keoat then
appeared from the door of the kitchen and he
was about to pull his sword out as well before I
gave him a look not to.
Leave her alone! Keoat yelled walking
over. Then I heard the shot of the gunner and I
closed my eyes and Keoat yelled for the man to
stop. I expected it to come fast and take me out
right away, but it never came. When I opened

35

my eyes I saw the pellet, just floating there in

the air. I was in awe, I didnt expect there to be
magic. But then I realized that there was that
boy upstairs, and Hurley said he was dangerous.
When I looked behind me to the staircase I saw
the boy, he looked like a smaller version of
Keoat. The same hair and big green eyes.
Before I could say anything he ran upstairs and
the pellet just dropped to the ground.
I ran after the boy, I got to the top of the
steps and saw his door close behind him without
him touching it. He must have magic! I went to
the door and knocked on it, but got no answer, I
then tried to open the door but it seemed to be
working against me, like the wind was pushing up
against it. I then gave up and sighed, walking
back downstairs.
Keoat ran up to me with concern written
all over his face.
Audrielle are you okay? I nodded.
It was that boy, he saved me. He can
use magic, I want to ask him questions.
No Audrielle. This just proves how
dangerous he is. We cant bring people we dont
know into this. I sighed in frustration but held
my tongue not wanting to argue with Keoat right
now. But I havent given up on finding out who
that boy is.
I went back to serving customers, Hurley
kicked those drunk men out and told them that a
soldier from Mageia was passing through and
thats what stopped the bullet, they didnt see the
little boy, they were too busy being shocked over
the bullet stopping.

36

Then a boy came in through the door and

walked up to Keoat who was cleaning the tables
getting ready to close down and gave him a letter
and then ran off.
Already? Keoat said as I walked up to
him.
Is it the letter from Genta? I asked him.
He nodded.
That boy must have taken a wagon there
or something. She lives in the next town over it,
should have taken him at least a day! He
opened the letter and then read through it,
smiling and then giving it to me. I straightened
out the page and skimmed through the short
letter, not knowing the person personally and
nervous about what they are going to say.

Dear, Keoat and Audrielle

I heard about your request and would like to see you
sometime soon to see Audrielle abilities. I will decide if it is a
lost cause or not. From there we will decide what happens.
Hurley knows where I live, Keoat as well. See me some day
soon around the evening, I will be ready for you.
From, Genta

37

I let myself smile and I gave the letter

back to Keoat.
Lets get a good sleep and then leave on
a wagon first thing tomorrow. I said.
Will we have enough time to get there by
the evening if we leave in the morning?
If a small boy can do it then we can to.
Fine, we should pack now so were ready
in the morning.
I nodded and we headed upstairs to do
just that. Before I opened my door I glanced
over to the boys room. I didnt hear anything at
the moment, it was like everything on the outside
has been shut out. I just sighed and went inside
my room to pack.
After I finished packing my very few
things I opened my father's letter once last time.
I dont get why he would leave things out like he
did, not tell me why he was different. What
made me so powerful, and why the Queen would
be jealous of him. I wish he was standing in
front of me right now. But that is an empty wish,
isnt it. Im always dealt a dented card.
I put the bag of my things on top the
dresser and changed into my nightgown. I
prayed to Ren that I would get a good night sleep
that night. But why try to fix a dented card? It
will still remain imperfect, the fact that it was
dented in the first place will haunt it at that
crease. My life is just a playing card.

38

Chapter 5
I woke up with no troubles during the
night. I took a stretch just to top off that fact. I
got dressed and brushed my hair and then
cleaned my teeth. I then remembered that we
where leaving today, and I still havent thanked
that boy.
I left my room and went to the boys
room, slowly opening the door. He was sleeping
there, and I just decided to pull up a chair.
I just want to thank me for what you did.
I dont think I would be standing here if you
didnt do what you did. I know you lost your
sister, and it haunts you. But I understand. As
I finished saying this the chair was pushed back
and I fell out, my head hitting the floor. I cursed
and looked up to see him sitting up, anger
written on his face.
What do you know about me to
understand! He yelled. I rolled myself on my
back and started inching backward while he got
up and came closer and closer, the wind around
me started to picked up, almost pushing back.
Then air started to flood my lung and I couldnt
breath as I was being lifted into the air. No one
understands! The last time someone said they
understood something about me, they killed my
sister! He telled again. Tears started flowing
down his face.
I...lost...someone close...too. I
managed to choke that out, and his face went
from anger to sympathy for a brief moment and

39

he dropped me down and the I was able to

breath again. I gasped for air and I heard
footsteps running up the staircase and before I
knew it Keoat was kneeling beside me. And
Hurley went over to the boy and had him sit on
the bed.
Audrielle, are you okay? I nodded and
then looked up to the boy as Hurley was giving
him a lecture.
Rekin, you cant attack guests. Audrielle
was just trying to say thank you I bet. Wasnt
she. The boy, Rekin, just stayed silent.
I lost my mother. She died because of
me. Rekin looked at me again, the same look
from before.
My father told me that someone took him
away from me and my mom. You know how I
feel, someone being taken from you He nodded.
I know my mother is still watching over
me, so is my father. Your sister is watching over
you. I just know it. You know, maybe my
mother and father are keeping her company, but
they are watching over the both of us, hoping we
could become friends. You saved my life, maybe
you would like to be my friend? Tears started
streaming down his face and he got up from the
bed, racing over to me and hugged me, and
started crying. He then slowed to a stop, got up
on his knees, and looked at me.
You would be my friend? I smiled at
him and nodded. He then smiled, I have have to
say, a smile fits him. I then helped him up and
gave him a hug.

40

Do you want to come with us. I know

Hurley is all good fun, but I think friends should
stick together, shouldnt they. I asked him.
Audrielle, I thought we were going to
keep our group just us, not any outsiders?
Keoat spoke up behind me.
But I thought we needed allies. And I
think this is a good one. Plus, look at him, hes
like a tiny version of you. I countered. Keoat
sighed, looking at Rekin and giving him a wink.
Yeah, he does. Maybe I can teach him
some things. Keoat chuckled. Its easy to get
Keoat on board with things if you know him well
enough.
Well Rekin, you better pack quickly
because we need to leave soon. Rekin nodded
and went to go get things together. Meet us
downstairs when youre done.
Okay.
We ate a quick breakfast, I had some
bread and berries for Rekin to eat on the wagon
ride. And Hurley gave us a bag with some
cheese, two bottles of milk, and a fresh loaf of
bread for the road.
Just something for you guys working
here, and here are 100 terans, for emergency.
Hurley smiled as he handed me the bag of food
and with the other hand a small pouch of 100
terans.
Youve done so much already, I-
Go on, take it. Go save Allion and maybe
even find something interesting about yourself
along the way. Its the least I can do. He gave
me a hearty smile as I hesitantly accepted the

41

pouch. Just then Rekin came down the stairs and

Keoat handed me my bag.
All ready to go? I asked looking to the
two boys, still amazed at how much they look like
each other.
Lets go. Keaot grinned, slinging his
travel sack around his shoulder and I did the
same, and then we looked over to Hurley to say
our goodbyes.
Rekin, I hope you have found some
clarity and I hope Ive been more than a
bothering oaf to ya. Hurley had a tear in his eye
as Rekin gave him a hug. It was obvious that
Hurley thought of Rekin as a son.
Youve been like a father to me, and I
know Ive never said it. But thank you. Rekin
told him, it just made more tears fall down
Hurley's face. Then Keoat came up to Hurley and
have him a good ol pat on the back.
Im gonna miss you Hurley. Maybe Ill
come back here in the future and get another
another drink from your fine inn. Keoat gave
Hurley a smile and held out his hand to shake.
Hurley grabbed his hand and pulled him so he
could whisper something in his ear. I didnt
make out what he said, I think I have a guess
now, but at that moment I didnt. All I could see
is that it made Keoats eyes go wide.
Its not like that. He said walking away.
Yet. I heard Hurley say under his
breath.
I walked up to Hurley and gave him a hug
and he ruffled my hair.

42

You know, you are a very special girl.

You take good care of those boys, boys get
themselves into trouble.
I will. I assured him. I then walked
over to stand by the boys and we waved Hurley
goodbye. We opened the door, Gentas letter in
my pocket, and we were on our way to the first
step. I was going to learn about magic, and
learn how to get revenge for my father.
It was about half an hour before we found
a wagon to actually stop for us, the driver was
very unpleasant, wanted 50 terans for the ride
we were asking for. Im glad Hurley gave us
that pouch. In Spalon everything was in walking
distance, that was just how small our town was.
We took care of ourselves really, the capital
never really payed attention to us, so the town
just looked after each other. Thats what made it
so nice a place to grow up in. Everyone knew
each other and the markets is where people talk
and get social. I wonder what would happen to
them, not telling the Queen about two migrants.
A runaway soldier? The whole town would be
burned down. And it would be my fault, for
dragging everyone into my mess.
Audrielle, are you okay? Keoat asked
me.
I just nodded and gave him a weak smile.
Yeah. You know me, just thinking.
The rest of the day we just rode in that
wagon, it stopped for one person, but they didnt
have enough money to pay and they looked like
they were so tired of walking.
Ill pay for them. I volunteered.

43

Audrielle, no thats all the money we

have left. Keoat whispered to me.
Look at her, she looks like shes been
walking for days. I told him. He sighed in
defeat. I gave the terans to the man and the girl
gave me a smile as she stepped on. Instead of
robes she was using a small blanket to cover
herself from the heat. The girl looked about
Rekins age, she had black hair that matched
perfectly with her eyes and scars on her face.
Were are you going? The man asked.
Anywhere. She said simply. The man
just grunted and kept with wagon going on a
path. The market was behind us and it was just
a few houses and a small path surrounded by
desert now.
What is your name? I asked her.
I dont know. She looked into the
distance.
Were you ever given one?
I dont know.
Do you know where you come from?
The only thing I know is that I was born
from the stars. Or maybe that was just a dream
I remember. Thats the only thing I saw before
waking up.
What do you mean waking up?
Audrielle. Keoat said in a harsh tone.
Sorry, Im asking to much.
She looked at me with kind eyes and she
smiled.
Its fine. I woke up in the middle of the
desert, I have traveled through one town
already. Now Im just walking. I dont have a

44

destination, I am just going where there are

things to keep me alive. Jobs I can do for food
and clothing. I dont remember anything except
a dream of a voice and the stars. The voice said
that is where I am from. But now I dont belong
to it anymore. I pulled her into a hug, her
reaction was a small gasp and then she returned
it.
Would you like to come with us? I
asked her.
Audrielle, are you sure. Keoat warned
me. I nodded.
If we are going to save Allion, then lets
not let people we met die before we can save
them. I said, and he nodded.
Would it be okay? She asked.
Of course. I smiled at her. I thought
about something for a moment.
Would you like a name? I asked her.
She nodded excitedly, her blanket falling down a
bit. I pulled it back up and then noticed scarring
on her forearm. It looked at it closely at looked
at it. It said, Magia. Is Magia your name? She
just shrugged.
But it seems like a nice one. She told
me. I gave her a grin.
Magia it is then. I am glad to have you
with us, Magia. She gave me a smile and then
we were on our way, to Gentas house. The
home of my first teacher of magic. There I would
learn the basics of magic. And then learn get my
very first magic spirit, an Arcane Sellia.

45

46

Chapter 6
We had about four hours before it was the
evening at we where eating some of the food
Hurley packed us when the waggoner said he had
to make a stop. It was a run down house, and
he rushed inside. I sensed something was up, I
could feel it in my gut. Keoat was suspicious to
and I know he wanted to go check it out.
We should go and get him, we are in a
hurry. I suggested to Keoat. He nodded.
Rekin, look after Magia. Dont leave the
wagon. He nodded and we got off the wagon
slowly approaching the building. It looked about
two stories high and we didnt care to knock, the
waggoner didnt knock before, he just came in
like he knew the place and hasnt come back for
awhile.
It was dark inside, there were no candles
lighting up the place and the dust inside was
floating around making me cough and bothering
my eyes making me blink repeatedly. There was
nothing around that I could see, just a wooden
floor and a worn staircase. There was not a soul
in sight.
Ill check upstairs and you check down
here, call of theres trouble. Keoat whispered,
and he headed up the stairs.
Be careful. I warned him and I took out
my sword, sunlight coming in through a cracked
window made the red tinted alloy reflect off it
and create cracked red reflections on the walls. I
put my sword away not wanting to draw

47

attention. The waggoner was nowhere in sight so

I decided to open a door. I opened it slowly so
my presence was still concealed and closed the
door behind me, but before I could turn around a
cloth covered my eyes and someone's hand was
over my mouth. I bit that hand and there was a
yelp sound, coming from a man. It wasnt the
waggoner though, it was a younger man. Then I
heard the shuffles of feet and I tried to reach for
my sword but found it was not there, then
someone hit me in the back of the head with
something hard and I blacked out.
The next thing I know, I was waking up in
the corner of a room with one window. My sword
was gone but the blindfold was tied loosely
around my neck. My hands where tied to a chair
and so were my feet making it impossible to
move without hurting myself. There was a cloth
gag making it so I could not talk and the door
was locked so even if I got out I wouldnt be able
to get out. But then I thought of the window. If
I could get out of this binding then I could try to
break the window, and even if that doesnt work I
could wait behind the door for someone to come
and take them by surprise and make them take
me to Keoat and my things. Then I remembered
that Rekin and Magia were in the wagon and they
might of gotten to them.
Little did I know they would save us, but
not listening to a word we said. Let me move on
to their situation for a change.
Rekin had been waiting for only ten
minutes when he thought something was up. He
looked into Magias worried eyes and decided he

48

needed to do something. He finally had people to

protect and he wasnt going to lose them because
he was to afraid to act.
Magia, wait here Im going to see what
whats going on inside. Magia didnt like this
idea.
But they said stay in the wagon and wait
for them to come back. Rekin shook his head.
We need to do something. Just wait
here. Rekin then got out of the wagon and
looked through the window. He saw four men
dragging Keoat, who was unconscious, into a
back room. He about to go inside but then
stopped and thought of the situation. If they
have Keoat and me inside then they had
hostages.
Rekin, one of them uses Dark magic, you
dont want to go in there alone. Based on the
wind currents, the next house is only a few
minutes away by wagon. If you hurry, you could
get Genta to come and save Audrielle and
Keoat. Rekinss wind Sellia, Lahi, told him. He
hesitated for a moment and then nodded.
But do you know how to use the wagon?
Magia asked. Rekin was confused as to why
Magia could hear his spirit, like it was normal,
unless she had one of his own, but even then you
have to be highly skilled to see other Sellia
besides your own.
Can you see Lahi? Rekin asked.
By Lahi, do you mean a spirit made of
wind floating right next to you? If so, then yes.
Do you have a spirit?
No.

49

Then how can you see mine. She just

shrugged. Rekin looked over to his Sellia. Does
she have a Sellia spirit as well? Lahi shook her
head.
She does not, but...I dont know why.
But she seems dangerous, she has massive Sellia
magic power stored inside her. That's all I can
see. Lahi told him. This confused Rekin, and he
just rationalized that he would find out more
later. Right now he needed to focus on saving
Keoat and I.
Im gonna try my best at driving this
thing. But hold on tight just in case, Lahi, you
can go back now. Lahi nodded and then
returned to Rekins inner Sellia. He grabbed the
rope that was tied to the horses, which seemed
odd to be in the desert, even though they were
covered from head to toe with robes. He
whipped the ropes and they were off faster than
rekin could keep up. He didnt know how to calm
them down and he tried to slow them down by
pulling the rope back but they where just to
strong and didnt seem to want to listen to him.
Lahi? Rekin yelled. She appeared at his
side.
Yes, master Rekin?
I need you to control these horses, if
they are going off course then steer them back
on track.
I will do my best. She responded. The
horses then kept the same pace, but where
easier to control and staying on the small path.
Rekin looked up from bracing himself to see a

50

small cottage on a small patch of grassland with

a single tree next to it.
Were here sir. Lahi informed.
Can you stop the horses?
Yes. The horses then were coaxed to
stop when the wind fought against them, leaving
them fatigued.
Thanks Lahi, you can go back now. She
nodded and then returned to Rekin. Rekin got
out of the wagon, as well as Magia, and they tied
to the horses to the lone tree and went to go
knock on the door.
As they were doing this I managed to
slide the robe off of my hands and immediately
bent over to untie the rope around my legs and
then took the gag off letting it hang next to the
blindfold around my neck. I looked to the
window and examined it, noticing that if I broke
it then it would make a loud noise and the men
who brought me in here would come running and
catch me before I escaped. Being unarmed and
not knowing the profile of the enemy, or the
numbers I would like to be safe and just wait
behind the door someone to some in and then
take the gag and choke them. I would then tie
them to the chair and ask him some questions
before I go and look for Keoat and see if Rekin
and Magia were safe.
It didnt take long for a single man who I
recognized as the waggoner entered and then
noticed that I wasnt tied to the chair and before
he could react I took the gag and choked him
until he passed out. I closed the door and kept it
unlocked and dragged the man over to the chair

51

and tied him to it with the ropes that where used

to tie me before. I then tied the gag around his
mouth so he could not speak and waited for him
to wake up. When I was getting impatient I
slapped him awake and his eyes shot open and
darted around.
Hello there, wagon man. May I ask what
quick stop this was suppose to be, nod, if youll
answer. He shook his head noticing I had no
weapon on me. I then slide the knife from his
belt and took it out of its holster.
Why did you attack us. I asked, taking
the gag off his mouth but keeping the knife to his
throat.
Youre not gonna kill me, no one who
saves a little girl off the streets will kill someone.
You're just bluffing to get to your boyfriend. He
shot at me.
He is not my boyfriend, he is my best
friend and if youve done anything to him dont
think for a second that I wont kill you. I
whispered in a harsh tone, letting the knife pierce
his skin, blood trickled down his neck and stained
his tan robes.
They have him in another back room, but
he is guarded by five men, one of them uses
magic, he gave me a grin, youll never got to
him. Youll die in the process or just end up as
you were before. I put the gag back on him and
kicked the chair so his face hit the ground and he
passed out again. I took the knife and held it up
just in case as I opened the door trying to figure
out where I was. I walked down a hallway and
then ended up in the room we were in when we

52

entered. I then heard a shuffle in a back room

and carefully headed toward it, keeping the knife
up and ready for any attack. While I approached
the room Keoat was being questioned,
Do you have some place that you keep
your valuables. One man asked Keoat. Keoat
kept his mouth shut and didnt say anything.
One of the men came up, he had darker robes on
and had a evil grin plastered on his face.
You answer me, or youre not making it
out of here alive, and your girlfriend isnt either.
Then man warned him.
Shes not my girlfriend.
Then you dont mind our friend that left
doing what he wants with her I guess.
Keoats eyes went wide and rage
consumed him. He better not dare touch her.
Then answer me.
People like you dont take deals. So Im
not gonna answer. Keoat spat at them. The
man in the dark robe clicked his tongue in
disappointment and shook his head in
disapproval.
Well, thats not what I wanted to hear.
The man looked next to him and he seemed to be
whispering to thin air. Then Keoat felt himself
getting weaker.
What did you do! Keoat yelled, and
then ended up in a fit of coughs.
Just a curse that will slowly eat you away
until your body cant stand it, and then
you...die. After he said this I bure through the
door with the knife and tacked him stabbing him
in the back and then cut Keoats ropes loose.

53

One of the men came up behind me and I did a

roundhouse kick and reached for my sword and
then handed Keoat his. I ran out of the small
room into the main area and unsheathed my
sword, the same spark effect as before making
the room look enchanting. Keoat ran out of the
room and unsheathed his sword revealing his
black tinted sword. Two guys went for Keoat and
the another one came to cross swords with me. I
saw a knife in his belt but he reached for the
opposite side. My eyes widened as I realized
what they had.
Keoat, be careful they have gunners! I
yelled over to him. Then I saw him fighting, but
he was on the defense which wasnt normal for
him. Keoat are you okay?
The one you took out in the dark robes
cursed me. He said that it would eat away at me
until my body gives out and I-
Well figure something out, Ill be right
there just hold out. I told him. The man who I
was facing had his gunner in his hand and was
loading it with teran pellets. I ran at him while
he was doing this, not giving him time to reload
and thanking the gods that he didnt think of
loading it before we came in. I took a few swings
at him but he took out his knife and countered it
in time, dropping his gunner. I then did another
roundhouse kick, which made him stumble
backwards and I kicked him again to make him
fall. I then took my sword and stabbed him in
the chest. I got up and looked over to his
gunner, and then up at the weakening Keoat
fending off three enemies still. I put my sword

54

back in its sheath and picked up the gunner

which was now loaded. I pointed it at one of the
guys that Keoat was fighting and waited until he
took a moment to stop. Right then I pulled the
trigger and it hit him right in the eye and he fell
backwards.
Audrielle! Are you okay! Keoat said but
then he went into a fit of coughs and fell to the
ground with his hand over his mouth. One of the
men took out his gunner, which was already
loaded, and pointed it at Keoat while the other
man did the same thing but pointed it at me.
No dont! I screamed, but then I heard
two shots, and two people went down.

55

Chapter 7
I opened my eyes and saw that the bullets
had stopped and the two men were down, their
facing draining quickly. I looked around to see
who could have done this and then noticed that
the glass from the windows where broken and
the glass pieces were scattered all over the floor.
Then the door opened behind me and I held up
the gunner and then Rekin and Magia entered
seeing us and then they ran over to the still
coughing Keoat.
I got up and followed them over to Keoat.
Keoat! There were footsteps behind me
and then someone pushed me out of the way.
She had light brown hair and hazel eyes with a
simple uniform for a Mageia soldier.
Who are you? I asked. Then a spirit
type thing appeared right next to her and she
started speaking to it.
Heri, can you do anything about this
boy's condition? She asked the spirit.
I can lend him some of my Sellia, but
that would make you weaker, and that would
have him last for at most three days but it would
drain from your strength. If we go see Lexani
then she could heal him. Heri said.
Who are you? I asked again, this time a
bit louder. She looked over to me and sighed.
Not very good observation skills. Im the
one you sent the letter to, Genta. And you are
Audrielle, and this boy is Keoat and we need to

56

take him to a friend of mine to rid of this spell.

Or else he will end up dying.
How far is Lexani, and will he make it if
he only has three days? I asked her. For some
reason she seemed surprised.
You can see my Sellia Spirit? Heri
looked over to me and he seemed to be looking
for something.
She is much like the girl. She has a high
Sellia, but everything else about her that I would
be able to read off other humans are blocked.
Her and the girl...I dont think they are- Genta
stopped him.
You dont need to say anymore, it doesnt
matter. Youre lucky, Lexani visited me for the
day to talk about the affairs going on in Mageia.
If she was back at her house it would take a little
under a week to get there and we wouldnt make
it in time. I sighed in relief and crawled over to
Keoat and embraced him.
I better not lose you already. I need
you. I whispered to him and he gave a weak
chuckle as he hugged me back.
Lets go now, we have things to do.
genta said getting up. Hari, you can go back
now. The spirit nodded and he disappeared.
We all got into the wagon and it seemed a
little beaten.
How did you know we were in trouble? i
asked her as she started the wagon.
These two children came and got me
telling me that you two were attacked by the
man who owned this wagon. Theyre a local
terror around here. They made sure no one went

57

to the queen about it by keeping people silent, I

was going to take care of them soon. I dont
know how that dark mage got here, I dont
remember him being a part of them. Ill have to
look into that. She then asked me a question.
How come you can see my Hari? You dont have
one of your own so they cant be revealing mine
to you. I just shrugged.
Well, you might be the one that man
from long ago was talking about. She said
amused.
What man?
Its not my place to explain this to you,
or maybe I just dont want to. Dont worry, youll
be told in time. Dont ask questions, I dont like
questions when theyre not wanted. I gulped
and then the wagon stopped into front of her
cottage.
Keoat, can you walk? Genta asked.
Keoat nodded and I helped him out as Genta
went inside followed by Magia and Rekin. We
walked inside and there was a woman blonde hair
and orange eyes which I have never seen before.
She came over to Keoat and sat him down in a
chair.
How do you feel? She asked him.
Like hell- and then he went into a series
of coughs.
This is a strong curse for someone in a
local gang. But itll be easy to heal, dont worry.
She said. Geria, heal this boy. She said and a
spirit appeared before her.
Yes maam. She said before she held
out her hands and they started to glow. After a

58

few seconds Geria stopped and then looked to

Lexani.
You can go back now. She smiled at her
spirit and the spirit disappeared.
Now how do you feel Keoat? She asked
him.
I feel better now, just a bit tired. He
said getting up. I hugged him, relieved he was
okay.
Your lover seems relieved. She
laughed. I pulled away right away and my face
went red.
Its not like that, were life long best
friends. I said quickly.
Oh, I see. Lexani had a hint of a grin.
She looked up to Genta.
Im gonna leave for now, I dont want
Solxa to break into my into my house and steal
anything and curse me or something. She said,
seeming to be joking. I laugh to myself now
thinking of their silly rivalry that they had. But
Im getting ahead of myself, back to the story.
Yeah, maybe you two should try to get
along. Genta told her. Lexani shook her head.
That is not gonna happen. Were just to
different, plus...its to late. I already messed
that up. Lexani laughed quietly to herself.
Genta gave her a weak smile. Well then,
see you soon.
Yeah. Lexani grabbed a bag off the
wooden table and then was out the door. Genta
then looked over to me.
I have two empty rooms. One will be
girls and one will be boys. Go figure it out and

59

then unpack. After you are done then I will have

some dinner ready for you. We all nodded.
The rooms are the last two doors at the
end of the hallway. She said before
disappearing into her kitchen.
We all gathered our things from out of the
wagon, we were glad to see the horses didnt run
away. We tied them up to the lone tree and then
went inside and chose rooms. Girls on the right
and boys on the left. Magia had only a few
items, 23 terans and two dresses, one to big for
her and one to small for her. I had my letter, a
nightgown, and my sword. As I placed my sword
on the small dresser Magia looked curious.
What is that? She asked. It took me a
moment to realize what she was talking about. I
picked up my sword and unsheathed a small bit
of it for her to see the red blade.
Its a sword. I told her.
Were did you get it? She asked me.
My father gave it to me. I told her. She
seemed even more confused.
What is a father. I froze at that
question. She doesnt know what a father is? So
she doesnt know what a mother is, and doesnt
understand what parents are
He is someone who takes care of you and
looks after you. A mother is someone else who
takes care of you, and they created you.
Sometimes there are bad mothers and fathers.
But I had good ones. I told her.
How do they create you? She asked
me. I froze again and then burst out in laughter.

60

Whats so funny? She asked me. I

shook my head.
Ill tell you some other time, or someone
else will tell you. For now dont worry about it.
Lets go eat some dinner. She nodded and we
then headed out into the main room to have
dinner with Genta.

61

Chapter 8
We ate dinner in silence, well at least I
was silent. Magia and Rekin finished early and
he was explaining whatever he could to her that
she didnt understand. Keoat was talking with
Genta about what happened and I pretended to
listen. But really, I was thinking.
Magia mentioning my sword earlier
brought me back to the thought of why my father
gave it to me. One of the local blacksmiths in
Spalon told me he didnt recognize the alloy at
all. But the interesting thing is, he said the
sword might be as old as Allion itself. Which
makes me wonder why my father had it to begin
with, and how special it has to be to have
survived that long.
Audrielle? Keoat said which made me
snap out of my thoughts.
What?
I asked what that waggoner did to you?
He said.
Oh, he didnt do anything. After I got
myself free I waited behind the door for someone
to come and get me. I then choked him with my
gag and tied him to the chair. When he woke up
I threatened him so he would tell me were you
are and who was guarding you. I told him. He
blinked in surprise.
Well, you saved my life. he smiled at
me.
You would do the same for me. I told
him. Its the least I could do.

62

Well Audrielle, its getting late now. But

tomorrow right in the morning, I will start
teaching you about magic, and Sellia, and
everything you need to know. Genta said to
me.
I was overjoyed that she would teach me.
What made you decide to teach me?
A lot of variables. But none of those
matter. Just be happy and go get yourselves in
bed.
We all went into our rooms and we got
situated. Magia fell right asleep as I once again
pulled out my father's letter. It was one of the
only things I have of him beside my sword.
Reading his words made it feel like he was there,
and mom was there too. It comforted me as I
fell asleep.
Light was shining through the window and
made me squint as I woke up. Magia was sitting
in front of the mirror, already awake, brushing
her long raven black hair.
Am I human? Magia said out of
nowhere. I was confused by the question, and
why she would ask that.
Of course you are, why would you ask
that?
Because Hari said I wasnt. He said I
wasnt natural. She told me. I shook my head
and brought her close to me embracing her.
Dont listen to him. Hes just a spirit,
hes not human. So what would he know about
humans. I reassured her. She gave me a weak
smile.

63

Now let's go and greet everyone good

morning. I told her. She nodded and we went
into the main room. We ate quickly, food was
already on the table and I wanted to start my
training. Maybe I was too eager, I didnt want to
give Genta a bad impression of me.
Lets go into the back, that is where we
will complete the first step. After that we will
decide if I am the right one to train you or not.
She then got up and opened a backdoor to a
small grassland before it dispersed into desert.
Why wouldnt you be the right one to
train me? She held up her hand and gave me a
disapproving glare.
Do not ask questions, if I tell you
something and dont tell you to ask questions,
dont. Answers are better learned when you
figure them out on your own. I nodded and
decided to keep my mouth shut.
You know that there are different types
of magic? I nodded. Well each fits a person
depending on their life, personality, strengths,
weaknesses. You will spend time gathering your
Sellia into one focused space. Depending on the
type of magic you use and your natural strength,
it might take days or weeks, minutes or hours.
You cannot take a break, so I ask you now. Are
you ready, both physically and mentally to be
focused on one thing for the amount of time it
might take? I nod. Good, we will get along
well.
She then came up to me and took my
hand. Hari. She said. Her spirit appeared.
Yes, maam?

64

Try to foresee her magic. The spirit

nodded and he then grew to the size of a full
grown man. He took my hand and sat me down
across from him. He looked like a person made
of pure energy. It was beautiful.
I cant read her maam. I am sorry, its
like she is everyone of them. No one of them
matches her Sellia personality. It is all things. It
is strong, kind, dark, wild. I cant foresee just
one. He said. Genta nodded and sent him
away. I have a feeling that was not normal.
I will explain the four magics. First,
there is Arcane magic, which is what I practice.
created an Arcane Sellia spirit because of my
stamina and my strength. But I need to tell you
more about Sellia creatures first. And how to
protect them. She paused before continuing.
After you create your Sellia creature through
Sellia, which is basically like your magic stamina,
you can name it or it can name itself. It has all
the memories that you have and can see
everything that you see. You can erase
memories from their mind as well. So all your
dark secrets can stay to yourself.
You can talk to your Sellia creature
through telepathy. No one can see your creature
unless you want someone to. And even then
they have to be close to your Sellia level. So its
hard to see Arcane creatures, since those who
use them have high Sellia.
Your creature can see other Sellia
creatures and other thye can see yours unless
you shield it, and they might have a shield on
them that prevent your spirit from seeing them.

65

As you notice there are many names for these

creatures. Sellia creatures, Sellia spirits.
Arcane, Light, Dark, Elemental creatures or
spirits.
It is possible to have more than one
spirit, but it would most likely kill you. It is
impossible to have spirits of other magics other
than your own. If your spirit is killed, then you
will most likely die, or never be able to use magic
ever again. If you are an Elemental magic user,
you can have more than spirit. Three is the most
anyone I know has achieved without dying and
even some have died. These people are even
stained, on thin ice. Those who try four...its
suicide.
Now, we can talk about each magic.
Arcane magic is you're creature using pure Sellia.
This magic can be considered the most powerful,
but most dangerous to have another creature of.
If you have an Arcane creature then that might
mean that you have a lot of stored Sellia
meaning you are able to have powerful attacks
while still having a safe amount of Sellia.
Light magic, which is what Lexani uses, is
the magic of creating and healing things. You're
creature can bring things to life and have that
thing sign a contract to follow you, but only by
will. This also has healing properties and most
people with a Light Sellia become doctors. If you
have a Light Sellia it means that you are very
pure and have very wise knowledge about
creating things and medical information. This is
not a very good offensive magic.

66

Dark magic is the magic of destroying

and cursing things. Your creature can kill things
or make things follow you against the things will.
You can curse things and bring down illness and
find someones weakness and use it against
them. If you have a Dark Sellia, it means that
you are very cold, and very secretive and
manipulative, maybe even crazy if it doesnt drive
you crazy.
Elemental magic is the magic of
controlling the four elements. Fire, water, wind,
and earth. This might mean that you have grown
up with a lot of different lifestyles and the Sellia
inside you has changed many times to the point
that it becomes one or two things, or maybe
even three things. Your creature will be able to
control one of the elements, and usually will be
summoned with a twin which controls a similar
element.
I tried to process all of this information
given to me, making sure it doesnt fly over my
head. I was always good with large amounts of
information in schooling, which I am thankful I
can use as a skill now.
Now, time to find out which one of these
magics suit you.
I then, broke out in a grin.

67

68

Chapter 9
You will sit down in an almost meditative
state. Then you will hold out your hands and
gather all of the Sellia into one area which you
will see in front of you forming a ball in your
hands. Focus on what is inside you, it should
come easy. Then after a certain amount of time
it will burst, and then you will meet your Sellia
creature. She explained to be as I crossed my
legs over each other and held out my hands.
I bet it will be Arcane. You can a stamina
even cant match. But then again you might be
Light, you are the kindest person I know. Keoat
appeared, leaning on the frame of the door.
We will all stay inside and not bother her
until she is finished. Genta warned as Keoat
gave me a wink and disappeared inside. Genta
then gave me a smile as she closed the door
behind her leaving me to start this by myself.
Ok...just focus your Sellia Audrielle, right
into your hands I said to myself. I closed my
eyes and I could feel it, like it was waiting there
just for this moment. I opened my eyes again
and it started forming in my hands, slowly at first
but then it went faster, and faster, forming a ball
of energy in my hands. Then in a second, faster
than I could blink, the energy burst and I fell
backwards from the amount of force.
What did I do wrong. I said to myself as
I got up. It wasnt even minutes, it was seconds.
It couldn't have worked.

69

Hello master. I heard a voice in my

head, a small child like voice, a girl. Im right
over here master. The voice said again.
I cant find the direction youre in. I
looked frantically around. Youre speaking in my
head.
Oh, sorry master. I am by the well.
The voice said again. I looked over to the well
and there, sitting on the well, a small creature
the size of my hand.
You are my Sellia spirit? I asked.
Who else would I be. Would you like to
give me a name?
What magic are you.
I am Arcane.
I am not good at giving names. The best
I have done was naming a stuffed bunny. His
name was Mr.Fuzzy. So, you give yourself a
name if you would like.
Thank you master. Then I, will be Fell.
It is very nice to meet you. I am sorry about
your mother. And I hope to be helpful to you in
defeating the Queen and taking back your land.
I hope you will to. You can make
yourself visible to Genta, Magia, Rekin, and can
you make yourself visible to Keoat.
Im afraid I cannot.
Well then just those three will be fine.
Lets go inside.
Lets.
When we went inside everyone was
gathered playing a card game. Genta looked up
and looked to the spirit next to me.

70

Impossible. She breathed. All of the

color drained from her face.
I know it was a little quick but is it really
that impossible. I asked her. She shook her
head.
Its not that. You might be the one we
have been waiting for.
Which one that you have been waiting
for? She came up to be and looked into my
eyes, as if looking for something.
Sit, we have much to discuss. She said
in an urgent tone.
What about training? I have questions, I
need to train quickly. Time is running out.
You understand nothing. Sit down and
you will. Not a word out of you. Listen, then we
have somewhere to go. I sat down in a chair
and she began, all the way from the beginning,
long before she was even born.
Long ago, hundreds of years, a man
came to a small group of developing rebels,
planning to attack the Queen. He told them to
wait for a person, this person would have yellow
eyes that would turn gold with each spirit that
they would summon. First it would be Arcane,
then Elemental, then Light, then Dark. They
would master the magic's in that order.
That person he said was going to be our
saviour. They were going to lead in a war
against the Queen, and we would take back
Allion. Audrielle, I think that person, is you.

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Chapter 10
What do you mean, its me? I never
heard anything about this, or who the man youre
speaking of!
I will not answer your questions. You
have a destiny, deal with it. You cant run away
from destiny.
But who is involved with the rebellion,
how do they expect me to head this war that is
coming. The reason I want to kill the Queen is to
avoid war. I yell. This is just making my head
spin, I want revenge family...not have a whole
country hoping I will free them.
I cant force you, I will take you to the
current leader of the rebellion. She can figure
out what to do with you. Genta said.
So now I dont even control my life
anymore? You know, maybe I should not have
set out in the first place on this mission. I left
the room and went out anywhere but there, were
my destiny is...I cant be a saviour, a leader, I
never was, so I cant be now.
I wandered, and someone tapped my
shoulder. I looked around to see a boy about a
year older than me with blonde hair and brown
eyes. He then had a look of surprise and seemed
to take in all of my features.
Sorry I thought you were someone I
know. He gave me an apologetic smile.
Who are you?
He looked at me with a challenging grin.
Who are you? He asks me.

72

Audrielle. I told him.

My name is Kralim. Age 18, it is very
nice to meet you. He said taking my hand and
planting a kiss on it making me blush. My I ask
why a beautiful girl like yourself is wandering a
busy market town in Guneir all by herself? He
waited for an answer, I tried to think of a
half-truth.
Someone told me I am something I am
not, so I ran away. I told him. He didnt press
on.
Would you allow me to escort you
through this market . I have a place I go when I
am reminded of my past. He told me holding
out his arm for him to take. I eyed him
suspiciously as he led me down an alleyway.
***
Keoat was taken by surprise, me losing
my temper like that. Of course I have lost my
temper before but not like that. After he
recovered from the shock of what happened he
ran out the door and into the market. There
where so many people, he tried to spot a head of
beautiful auburn hair that smelled of berries and
roses, eyes that remind one of the good things in
life. He then stopped himself from thinking like
that, like a...he stopped himself again. He
realized he had feelings for me too late he
thought. I lost my mother, I got a letter from my
father, and I set off on a mission to avenge
them. Him confessing would just confuse things,
but not telling me was eating away at him. And
he couldnt do anything about it.

73

He then heard laughter, a laughter he

knew all to well. He couldnt quite find were it
was, but then he heard the laughter loud and
clear. He looked down an alleyway and heard it
again and knew I was there. He walked down
the alley seeing me talking with Kralim.
***
Before Keoat found me Kralim helped me
get my head on straight. We sat down and he
just started humming. After a bit he stopped and
then looked over to me.
Are you sure this someone this person
wants you to be, is not just the future you? he
asked me.
What do you mean?
I mean that maybe its not who you are
now, but its who you are meant to be.
But she was talking about something big
that I was suppose to do, and I cant do
something like that.
People change, and that change can
make a change in the world. Whatever this big
thing that you are meant to do, I bet you can do
it. I can tell that you are strong now, and even
you are meant to be stronger, then you will be
able to accomplish whatever task people though
at you. His words I really took to heart. Maybe
I just needed to hear words from a third party.
What about you? I asked him.
About me? You want to know something
about a desert dweller? Well, you want to know
something? I have never been sunburned. He
told me. I let out a small laugh. It seemed to
amuse him.

74

But you have such tan skin, are you

telling me you are some kind of sun god?
A god? Hah, if I was a god I would make
this place springs and large forests! He
exclaimed causing me to laugh even more.
Thats were I come from, a place with
large forests and miles of lake. As I thought of
my home I thought of my mother.
Well then, you are going to have to take
me there someday. Get me away from this
cursed land. He said.
I swear to Ren. I answered. He then
gave me a smile.
You know, now I dont have anything to
give back to you for your promise. He sighed.
You gave me plenty. I told him. He
shook his head.
I will give you a nickname. It will be
Gold One, for your eyes. He then thought of
something else. And I have something I can
show you! Have you ever seen a man do a flip.
I have always wanted to do one as a child after a
troupe passed through here.
Are you saying you are going to do a
flip?
Yep.
Dont hurt yourself.
Ill try. He said. He then got up and
braced himself, and then jumped high and flipped
mid-air. He landed on his feet with a certain
clumsy grace that made it funny to watch. I
started laughing. He then lost his balance and
fell backwards.

75

I said dont hurt yourself! I said through

laughing.
It doesn't count if it wasnt caused by the
flip. He told me bursting out into laughter as
well. Then, Keoat came down the alleyway.
***
Keoat was worried at first, but when he
say Kralim there his face change to anger, he
just tried to brush it off,
Audrielle, why did you run off Ive been
looking everywhere for you. He said. He didnt
just seem angry about me running off, it seemed
like all the worry fell away and was replaced with
jealousy. Something Keoat so rarely feels.
Who are you? Kralim said.
Keoat tensed. That is the question I
should ask you. Come on Audrielle we should be
heading back now. Keoat said, his voice low
and demanding. I didnt question, and I decided
not to bug him. He has gotten like this once
before, he was talking to his stepfather. His
stepfather threatened Keoats sister and it sent
him in an outrage, but when Keoat is outraged he
makes himself intimidating to the point that he is
you're only fear, you're one nightmare. He
learned this from his mother, she was a scary
woman.
So I backed off right away and went with
him.
Maybe we will meet again, Gold One.
***
When we arrived back I calmed down
enough to apologize to Genta.

76

No need to apologize. I should have told

you more. Your destiny is not you, it is defined
by you and you can follow what path you want as
long as its your best self. Those words were
one of the wisest I have heard Genta say.
She then got down to business. We will
head for Anthropina tomorrow. She told us.
So pack up you're stuff and get your act
together because you have to treat these people
as they were Ren herself.
We packed our bags and we got a good
night's sleep, the last sleep in this cottage, We
have only been here a few days, and I have
known Magia, Rekin, and Genta for a few days as
well. But isnt that how everything starts? A few
days, a few years, and then eventually you just
expect them to be there. Those are true friends,
and true friends, are family.

77

Chapter 11
We left early in the morning, flatbread and
berries in our stomach to fuel us. Genta was out
waggoner and the rest of us tried not to get sick
in the back due to the bumpy wagon and the
heat of Toxoulia. It slowly got more bearable as
we got closer to the Anthropina gate.
Genta, if you are from Mageia, then why
are you living in Toxoulia? I asked her, the
thought just coming to me. She had a hint of a
smile.
Well, the Queen gathered a few people
that have been in her army awhile, and I was
stationed here in Toxoulia. The funny thing is,
the leader of the Rebellion, Ran, convinced her
to. Its easier to have meetings for the Rebellion.
So I am a spy for the Rebellion when the Queen
thinks I am her spy. It just makes me realize
more of how much a tyrant the Queen is. She
has most of Mageia brainwashed by their special
treatment of silks with gold accessories. Im glad
I left and that my mother kept me on the right
side.
Who is your mother?
A very strong woman. A leader to
everyone. A quick wit and clever tongue that
makes everyone listen. And above all, she is
wise. The wisest person you will ever meet.
It was nice to learn more about Genta.
You are much like your mother. I told her.
She smiled.

78

So Ive been told.

The rest of the way we ate some fruits
and greens and a bit of meat. Keoat seemed
very tense still. I was back here, I was going to
meet the leader of the Rebellion. So why is he so
tense.
Keoat, is something bothering you? I
asked him finally. It took him a bit to realize that
I said something. He was deep in thought.
Huh?
Is there something bothering you? I
repeated. He opened his mouth to say
something, but then just shook his head.
Its nothing.
It was left at that.
Soon enough we could see the Anthropina
gate. The hot air was long gone and was now
replaced with a chill in the air and light snow in
the distance. There was grass for a brief
moment, wet and bron from melted snow.
What is this place? Magia asked.
Its the snow faction Anthropina. The
army is trained in martial arts that make
themselves a deadly weapon. I told her. She
nodded, contempt with this answer, it is the
smallest of the factions. There are only three
cities, the capital being the biggest. Very few
towns in these cities. Each town does not have
an official name, but are each unique.
When we get through the gates we will
be going straight to Rans house. I remind you
again to be on your best behavior. Keoat, I trust
you to keep them in order. Genta said. Keoat

79

nodded, and I kinda agreed...Keoat was the most

mature one there.
***
Once we arrived at the gate Genta jumped
off the wagon and showed the guards her papers.
They gave her a nod and got back in the wagon,
bringing us in Anthropina as the gates opened.
Ran lives in Antia, if we follow Border
Wall we can pass quickly through Anto and into
Antia. It will only take about an hour. She told
us.
After a while had passed I noticed myself
shivering even though the robes were thick. But
they where meant for heat, not the cold, and the
chill was biting at me.
Audrielle, are you cold? Keoat asked
me.
Im fine. I told him.
You are not. He said as he scooted
closer to me and put his arms around me to keep
me warm. The warmth of his skin, his smell of
iron and at the same time honey and trees. I
blushed being to close to him, and the way I was
thinking about him. Come on Audrielle, hes your
bestfriend, dont think of him like that. But I
couldnt help it. I wanted to reach out my hand
and touch his face, I wanted to lean on his
shoulder and rest there, like it was the safest
place in the world. I wanted him to pull me to
him, to connect our lips. I shook my head, trying
to shake away those thoughts.
His thoughts where vaguely similar. The
smell of berries and roses, the gold of my eyes
and the softness of my hair made him want to let

80

his hands go through it, letting it loosely fall over

my face. But he didnt, even though I so deeply
wanted him to, he didnt know, he didnt want to
trouble me with his love. Though I didnt realize
it then.
Were here. Genta announced pulling us
out of our wanting thoughts. I looked up to see a
huge mansion, the biggest estate I have ever
seen other than Felixs castle at the parade in the
Capital of Spathi. Genta took the horses into a
small house that had one other horse inside of it.
The many lights inside heating the horses. We
then followed Genta to the front door and she
knocked on it loud and hard. It opened and
there standing was a girl with black hair and
bright blue eyes.
Hello Yei, do you mind finding Ran for us,
or Belan would be good. I have urgent news for
them. Genta said to the girl. She nodded and
motioned for us to come inside and we did. We
sat down on very comfortable chairs and then
she disappeared to find them.
Two people came up to us. One had silver
hair and silver eyes who I assumed was Belan
and one had silver hair and hazel eyes. The
same hazel eyes as Genta.
I am Ran, this is my husband Belan. We
are leaders of the rebellion. I assume you are
the one we have been waiting for? She asked
me. I nodded. It was nice of my daughter to
bring you here. How long have you been staying
with her? It took me a moment to realize that
by daughter she meant Genta and then I realized
why they had the same Hazel eyes.

81

A few days. I told her. She nodded.

I will have Yei show you to your rooms
upstairs and then please come back down, we
have have much to discuss.
***
After we finished putting away our things,
a thing we did a few days ago. I had my own
room this time. Keoat had the room across,
Magia next to mine, and Rekin next to Keoats. I
started to wondered when we would pack our few
things again, who would join us to the next step?
I went down the long white steps and
everyone was gathered.
Come sit. Ran said. I obeyed sitting
down in a laced chair. How do you feel child?
She asked me. I thought of how big of a
responsibility this is, leading people. And why it
is me who should do this.
I feel overestimated. I told her, trying
to summarize it. She nodded.
Yes, you might feel like this now. But I
assure you, at the end of all of this, at the end of
your training you will be the greatest of of and
the most fit to lead against the Queen. She
assured me. I smiled. Now, I want to show you
where our headquarters are and tell you of how
long we have waited.
She led all of us to a library, bigger than
the town library I grew up with. Everything
about this place seemed enchanting, like a castle
that a beautiful princess resides in. She went to
a small book case, only a bit taller than me, and
she picked out one book and I heard a click. She
then waved for us to follow her down the

82

cobblestone steps and walls, a lanterns along the

way. Then she opened a door, it seemed heavy
for someone of her age but she opened it with
ease. I dont know what I expected, a small
room maybe, but it was more like a cavern. A
cavern that stretched for at least a mile that held
tables and tables with one big table in the middle
that was filled with maps and notes, some
seemed to be thousands of years old.
Its a cavern...but why? Why not a
secret room or a path to another building? I
asked her. She seemed amused with my
response.
The cavern leads all the way to Mellani,
the city next to the Capital of Mageia. We will
someday gather an army here of those who are
willing to fight against the Queen and we will
walk down this cavern, to the city where our
allies reside, and we will then travel to the
Capital of Mageia and take back our kingdom
from a tyrant that has ruled too long without
being opposed. She clarified. I wondered how
long they have been waiting for me, itching to
take back what is rightfully theirs. They have
been ready for so long, and now they just await
for me to be ready.
So, we cant waste anytime. Do you
have any Sellia spirits yet? She asked.
Fell. I called.
Fell appeared before me. I was
wondering when you were going to call on me
master.
Can you let Ran and Belan see you? I
asked her.

83

Certainly. Ran then looked to Fell and

so did Belan. Genta finally has the chance to
meet her as well.
Deri and Galla, come out please. Ran
said. Just then two spirits appeared at her side,
one looked to be fire and the other water.
Theyre twins. I said, then realizing I
said it out loud.
You can see them? I havent let you see
them yet? She gasped.
It seems to be the same with every
magic user she meets. It is the same with the
girl. They have very mysterious Sellia. Genta
announced. Ran turned her head to Magia. She
approached her and Magia turned to me, fear
coming over her face and I nodded showing her it
was okay. Ran held out her hand and Magia
placed her hand in it in response. Ran closed her
eyes whispering a few things to her Sellia spirits.
She then released Magias hand.
You are right, very mysterious indeed.
She then did the same thing to me and came up
with the same conclusion. I have never seen
anything like this before. It must be something,
maybe its what makes you special. And this girl
is suppose to help you in some ways. She told
me gesturing over to Magia.
Maybe. I agreed, not knowing what was
different about me, they seem to know more
about this then me.
Have you trained with Fell yet? She
asked me. I shook my head.
Well then Genta, you better get to that,
we have had enough of destiny and rebellion

84

today. We better make some steps toward it and

not fantasies over it. She smiled. I have been
noticing the girl, Yei, looking at me the whole
time, she looked like she had something she
wanted to say to me. And Belan was very quiet,
he had this vague presence that sent chills up
your spin.
You can use this cavern as your training
space, just make sure it is far out. We do not
want anything damaged. She then left, Genta
staying as well as Keoat, Magia, and Rekin.
Genta led me about a fifth of a mile away and
then stopped.
You need to be coordinated with your
Sellia, and your Sellia spirit. With Arcane, it is
pure, and so it is dangerous. What I want you to
do is build up Sellia, learn how to transfer it to
Fell. Fell will then use it to do what you ask her
to with it. You will ask her to shoot the rocks
around us, and once you can control the damage
you do, and the level of your attack, and where
you aim it, then we will move on to the next
step. She pulled out a book from her back
pocket and went to go sit and lean on a rock,
reading. I sighed and then looked over to the
many rocks ahead of me.
I sat down as well, knowing it will help me
focus. I then closed my eyes and let the Sellia
inside me manifest. It seemed to want to go
toward Fell, but I let it gather more, get more
focused before I let it transfer over to her. It hit
her, and it seemed to throw her off balance.
If you transfer over to much pure energy
to Fell at one time it will hurt her. Its like having

85

to much medicine, it begins to have the opposite

effect. Control it, that is the main thing. Genta
lectured, looking over her book, and then looked
back down letting me fix my mistake.
Sorry Fell.
Its okay master. We will just try again.
I tried gathering up the power inside of me, and
as soon as I felt the pull I made sure it was a
controlled energy and then let it transfer over to
her. She seemed to gather it better this time.
She closed her eyes. What would you like me to
do master? She asked.
Throw the energy at that rock, make sure
its controlled and make it so it doesnt break the
rock, okay? She nodded and opened her eyes
and looked at the rock, bringing her hand
together, Sellia gathered around her, circled her,
it was an enchanting thing to watch, and then
she released it forward toward the rock. It
cracked the rock, I was afraid it would break, but
it did not and I let out a breath I didnt know I
was holding.
A little less energy next time, please,
Fell. I warned her.
Sorry master, I will do better next
times.
Its okay Fell, were learning together.
She told me. We repeated the process a for what
it felt like a thousand times, for the better part of
four hours. Keoat was playing a card game with
Magia and Rekin, more like teaching them the
complicated rules of all his favorites and then
letting them win only to beat them later. Ran
brought down a stew for us to eat and then left

86

again. I went back to the energy against rock

training, by the time Genta stopped me seven big
rocks fell victim to Fells blasts.
Good job, I think thats enough of Arcane
Blast for now. She told me.
We can start Arcane Rain and then
maybe perfect it tomorrow. Its the second
hardest thing to master of Arcane magic, but
thats why we should get it out of the way.
What you do is gather your Sellia above
you without your enemy knowing and then have
it rain down on them. This requires control and
stamina. After you master these two things, you
will be able to accomplish Arcane Rain, then
there is something else to master, and then after
you bring all of that together you can maybe try
to bring them all together for a huge attack that
can shatter houses. For now, we should all get a
good night's rest.
We then ended training for that day and
then went up to our rooms and got our sleep to
train the next day. The bed was like a cloud, and
the blankets blacked the cold making me almost
forget about it. There was a fireplace in the
room and I fell into a sleep that took the top of
the list on best sleep I have ever gotten.

87

Chapter 12
Breakfast went by fast and right in the
morning I was sent to the market with Yei. The
whole time as we picked up fresh fruits picked
from Spathi and grains from Mageia, she looked
like she had something to say right at the tip of
her tongue. Then, she finally spoke.
Can I ask you something, if you really
are the saviour?
I nodded.
Would you find my father and his friends
and kill them. Im afraid that they will come for
me again, that they will find me and they will
bring me back. I dont want to be afraid
anymore. Will you do that for me? I was taken
by surprise. She barely knows me, and here she
is asking for me to relieve her of her fear, I can
see how long she has been waiting to ask me.
Not even knowing who I was going to be. I
didnt know what to say to her, to put her at
ease.
I can try. She had thankfulness in her
eyes.
Thank you. She told me. I smiled. We
then traveled through the market and she told
me more about herself. She is an Elemental, she
only has one, and that is fire. Everytime she
tries to summon another one it backfires, but she
has become powerful with her one. She told me
of how her mother always hid her from her father
when she was small, and then moved away from
him by illegally migrating. Her father found
them, and he killed her mother, and then used

88

her like a slave. Ran saved her, took her in. She
now lives in fear of her father finding her.
***
We arrived back and I went into the
cavern to train with Genta again. She made me
warm up with Arcane Blast, telling me it needed
more work. She asked me if I wanted to
continue and I decided to try to perfect Arcane
Blast. So thats is what I spent the day doing.
Good job Fell! I exclaimed when she
made a blast so focused that it made a small hole
in the rock we were using, only a few small
impact cracks around it. Genta looked up from
her book and her eyes widened.
That is one of the cleanest Arcane Blasts
I have seen in years. I think its time to move
on, dont you think. I looked over to Fell and we
both nodded.
Genta repeated what she said the day
before, and I sat down again to start with, trying
to give small amounts of Sellia over to Fell as it
floated up into a small cloud in the air. After it
was getting very heavy to keep up, I told Fell to
release it and it rained down as we both tried to
control it, me trying to give her enough strength
to control it and her trying to use it to control the
large amount of energy raining down. One blast
hit a rock that fell close to Genta.
Hey, watch where you are blasting! She
yelled.
Sorry Genta. Fell and I apologized. Our
first attempt at Arcane Rain failed as we looked
around at the scattered hits we created and the

89

difference in size. It seemed impossible to

master.
Genta sighed. Lets take a break and
come back to it later. Ran approached us with
some lunch and we sat in a circle and ate.
Ran looked over to Magia. Do you have a
Sellia spirit? Magia shook her head.
Should we see if we can summon one?
Ran asked her.
Magias face lit up. Me? Learn magic?
Ran nodded. As we ate Ran explained to Magia
what to do in a clear calm voice, very much like
Genta. Magia then held out her hands and
started collecting Sellia in her hands as it formed
a ball in her hands. We continued eating while
Magia tried to summon a Sellia spirit. A few
minutes passed when I heard a scream behind
me. My head whipped to where Magia was
sitting to see that the energy that was forming in
her hands exploded and sent her flying back. I
ran over to her and picked up her head setting it
in my lap.
Magia, are you okay? I asked her. Her
eyes fluttered for a moment and she whispered
one thing before falling back unconscious.
Ren, has returned.
***
I waited in front of her room as Ran was
tending to her. When Ran emersed from the
room she looked up to me with confused eyes.
Shes unconscious. She has a fever and
should be left alone. Would you mind going into
the market and get some medicine, there is a
very skilled herbalist, Yei will know where it is. I

90

nodded and went to find Yei, I told her of what

happened and we headed into the market again.
She told me to go inside and get the medicine
while she goes and gets some from cloth from
the building next door.
After I got the right medicine, surprised
that it only cost 20 terans, I went into the
building Yei was in and was surprised at what I
saw inside. There were things thrown
everywhere, a sign of struggle, and the man
there was slowly coming into consciousness.
What happened? I asked him in a
hurry. He held his hand to his head.
These men came and took the girl that
came in here, the leader said we finally found
you and they left. He told me.
Did you see where they were going?
No.
Damn it...damn it to the star in which
Ren sits on. I cursed as I ran out the shop and
looked around for any sign of Yei. I ran back to
Rans estate with a harsh breath from running.
Yei...was...taken. I coughed out while
trying to regain my breath. Ran came up to me.
What happened?
Her father. Rans eyes went cold.
Rekin! She called. He then appeared at
her side.
Take these to Magia, have Belan help
you. He nodded as I handed over the herbs and
then Genta came up to us.
What happened? Genta asked.
Yei was taken by her father. Ran
informed.

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Damn it, bleeding stars I knew we should

have killed them when we had the chance.
Genta cursed. Lets go. They must be close.
***
We searched for at least an hour before
we say her red silk belt that tied her long shirt
together. After we ran in the direction we found
it in a small house came into sight. Ran stopped
us.
Wait. She closed her eyes and one of
her spirits appeared, she asked him to see how
many people in there with Sellia he could pick up.
About nine.
Thank you Deri. Are they powerful?
Not really, I sense Yeis Sellia, but it
seems like it is being suppressed by a curse. If
we kill the user of the curse she will be able to
use her Sellia again.
Thank you Deri. Galla? Deris twin
appeared, the water spirit.
Yes?
We are going to see some action. Ran
told them.
Fell.
Hari.
We headed toward the house.
Genta went to the front door as Ran
sneaked over a window on one side and I went to
the other. After three minutes we would go into
the house with the objective of getting Yei back.
I peeked into the window. Yei was in a chair,
tied to it with rope and a man was circling her, he
had the same black hair as she did. That must
be her father. There were only a few seconds

92

before we went attacked. He approached her, he

had a knife. I wanted to go inside right then, I
was sent into an outrage at how he was treating
her. Yei seemed so quiet and kind, she doesnt
deserve her father to be like this.
5...4...3...2...1. I broke the window open
with the backside of my sword and then jumped
inside. The father whipped around to face me,
holding up the knife in his hand. Genta and Ran
faced the other seven goons of his.
What is a little girl like yourself going to
do to me? He laughed, his laugh was low and
selfish. It made me want to stick my sword
through his chest. I gathered Sellia and then
transferred it to Fell and she blasted it at him but
he deflected it with a burst of energy in his hand.
He used Arcane as well.
Ha, is that the best youve got? He
challenged me. I brought out my sword. I
started gathering Sellia again when my sword
seemed to respond. It sucked in the Sellia before
I could transfer it to Fell, and it glowed. I swung
the sword at him and the energy was released in
a big blast that knocked him backwards cutting
deep into his chest.
Damn girl. He said. I walked up to him,
another goon coming toward me but I just took
the energy into my hand from the sword and held
my hand up to him and blasted him away in
sharp attack going right through him and killing
him instantly. I then approached the father,
anger in my eyes. I felt the Sellia inside me, I
felt like I could use it, I felt like if anything got in

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my way I could destroy it within seconds. Fell

could sense my power.
Audrielle, you need to calm down. Fell
warned me. I ignored the warning. I got even
angrier as I approached the man, and I then held
up my sword to his throat and came down on it
not giving him enough time to even cough before
his death.
I then snapped out of the rush I was in
and felt backwards, tired and scared. I shouldn't
be able to use my Sellia directly...and there is
blood, all over me. I looked over to Yei and
Genta was getting her out of the ropes and I
nearly started crying. But I held it, one single
tear streamed down my face. After Yei was free
she ran over to me and caught me as I fell over.
I looked at my hand, blood covered it.
The rusted smell, the dark color, the wet sticky
feel of it. All of this made me want to be sick.
Audrielle, are you okay? She asked me.
I stood up again.
I shook my head confused. What am I?
Audrielle, you just discovered something
different about yourself. Its okay, you are
Audrielle, you are human. Ran told me. I shook
my head.
Im not human. I dont think I ever was.
I just want to know what I am.
That will come in time. Ran kept trying
to comfort me. I looked to the two men that I
killed so easily.
I lifted my hand, and they were dead.
I...I killed them so easily...and I felt like I could
do anything. Im afraid, Im afraid...Im afraid.

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I fell to my knees in sobs and Yei put her arms

over me.
***
We returned to worried faces and a shot
of questions right when we walked in the door.
What happened?
Are you okay?
Where was it?
Where did you go, why?
Everyone, Audrielle needs a little rest
right now, and Yei does as well. Let them be.
Ran warned them off. I went upstairs to my
room, stares following me, questioning stares. I
have no idea what happened, I am not okay, I
am afraid. It was in a place were evil resided, we
went there to free Yei, I killed them. I dont
know how. Im afraid, Im afraid.
I fell to my bed and broke out in more
sobs. The power I felt was more than I could
handle. What if I get angry and hurt my friends?
What if I lose myself and leave destruction and
terror in my wake? What if I am not the saviour
but the start of the war? What if..those words
ringed in my head, pounding until my heart hurt
and the tears clouded my vision.
There was a knock on the door.
Whos there?
Keoat.
...
Can I come in?
...
Im coming in.
...

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He came in, as soon as he saw the

wetness of my eyes and the fear in my face he
rushed in and embraced me. I started to sob
again into his chest and didnt stop for awhile.
He stoked my hair, he held me closer. My
sobbing stopped and then just wanted him to
hold me there. To keep stroking my hair, to hold
me close to him, to lift my chin and kiss me. But
he just held me and then pulled away giving me
a smile. He got up to leave but I grabbed his
shirt, my hair falling in front of my face.
Please...dont leave. He looked
surprised by this, but just sat back down and
pulled my close to him again.
I killed those men. Within seconds. I
dont want to hurt you Keoat. I I was close to
confessing, but stopped myself. I dont want to
hurt anyone.
You wont. Youre too kind for that. He
reassured me. I tightened my grip, and then felt
the full of my events today. My body tired, and I
fell into a sleep.

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Chapter 13
I awoke to the sweet smell of honey and
the trees of home and opened my eyes to see
Keoat there, his slow breathing as he slept there.
A blush crept up on my face as I remembered the
events of last night. I jumped out of bed and
then shook my head of all thoughts and went and
sat down looking into the mirror as I brushed my
hair. Keoat then slowly woke up and looked over
to me, our eyes met and then we both looked
away quickly, a red hue to our cheeks.
We went downstairs for breakfast and
then I went down into the cavern with Genta.
Keoat, and Rekin traveling behind. Magia was
still resting in her bed.
Now, what you did yesterday. Do you
think you can do that again? Genta asked me.
I was horrified by the question.
I dont want to do that again. I was so
scared of myself I...I-
You have great power. If we are going to
win this war, we better use it. If you dont want
to use it thats your choice. But if you dont learn
to control it, it will come back and backfire. She
declared. Now, what do you want to do?
I will use it.
Good.
I called upon Fell, and she appeared and
she seemed to have a stronger confidence about
her.
Now Fell, I hope you and Audrielle can
work on Arcane Rain more carefully this time.
Then, Audrielle, we can focus on this new ability

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of yours. I nodded in response and got right to

work.
I sent tiny amounts of Sellia to Fell, she
caught it like it was a child and threw it
peacefully in the air and it floated there. It
seemed easier this time, Fell seemed like an
expert as she kept tossing it in the air so quiet
and so gracefully that even I barely noticed.
Then she looked at me, telling me it was time to
let it all rain down. Now time for the hard part.
As each Arcane blast rained down both me and
Fell focused on half of the raining attacks which
made it easier this time, since I could control
some just as Fell could. It was hard though, to
control the Sellia as it was falling toward the
ground, to tell it where to go while not letting all
the other ones crash into places they are not
suppose to.
***
By the time Ran came down to bring us
lunch the Arcane Rain started to actually seem
like rain. We stopped for lunch and the absence
of Magia made my worry start to resurface.
How is Magia? I asked Ran before she
started off toward the cobblestone steps. She
gave me a reassuring smile.
She has woken up, but she wont say a
word to me. Would you like to see her? She
inquired. I nodded eagerly and followed her up
the steps and to the room that Magia was staying
in. Ran left me and I opened the door slowly to
see her there, her hair covering her face as she
sat up in her bed staring at her hands. She

98

seemed different, she seemed quiet and isolated.

I could see the trauma in her eyes.
Magia? She didnt look up. I went over
and sat next to her on her bed. She still didnt
look up.
Its true. She said.
What is. She looked up at me, her eyes
a soulless black and her face twisted in agony,
trauma, and fear. It broke my heart to look at
her.
Im not human. My breath caught in my
throat and I didnt know what to say to her.
Why-
I remember where I came from, what I
am, what I have done. It horrible, absolutely
horrible. She started to sob, the saddest sob I
have ever heard. I pulled her into my arms.
I dont care what you have done, or what
you are, or where you came from. You are here
now, you are Magia, you are a sweet girl, and
you are my friend. She looked back at me, and
she nodded. Like she didnt believe me. I
decided to leave her to herself
I went back into the cavern, Rekin ran up
to me.
How is she? Is she okay? He asked me.
She remembered everything about
herself, and whatever she is I think she was
better off not remembering. I then walked back
to Genta and then she got up, ready to teach me
the next step.
You have learned Arcane Blast, and
Arcane Rain. Now you are going to keep energy
focused above it, and let it down in one big ball.

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You will need power, control, and stamina for

this. This will be a hard attack to pull off, but it
is one of the most dangerous of all magics.
Depending on our strong you are, the attack will
be big or small. Fell should be able to take large
amounts of Sellia now, you have practiced with
her enough.
I focused my Sellia, something I near
mastered now, and gave it over to Fell in large
amounts. She then took that and added it on to
a large ball forming above us. It got bigger and
bigger, but soon I felt a strain, and I thought it
was time to let it down, so we would not use to
much power.
On the count of three.
Yes master.
1...2...3
It fell slowly into the distance before it hit
the ground and sent not only me flying
backwards but Fell circled in the air and Genta
looked up from her book as rock debris was
clearing up.
You did that. She said getting up and
pointing to the large crater it made in the cavern.
I nodded.
Well damn the stars that was amazing.
She laughed. I think the rest of the training you
can do would be on your own. Fell came up to
me and tapped on my shoulder.
Yeah Fell?
Well, there is this theory I have.
What is it?
Since you are so powerful master, I
thought that you would be able to summon more

100

Sellia creatures. Maybe all of them. Being inside

your Sellia, I sense brothers and sisters waiting.
I thought you would like to know master. She
addressed.
That is a very compelling theory Fell.
Audrielle, would you like to give it a try? Genta
chimed in. I gave her a nod and sat down telling
Fell she can leave now. I held out my hands like
before and gathered Sellia there and within a few
seconds it burst. Even faster than it happened
before. Two creatures appeared. One was a girl,
she looked like fire, and one was a boy, he
looked like water.
Hello master. They both hummed in
synch.
I got my own twins! I burst out, causing
Genta, Keoat, and Rekin to laugh.
Would you like to name us master?
No thank you. You name yourselves.
Then I am Daph. The fire one said.
And I am Ceri. The water one said.
Daph and Ceri. I am guessing you are
fire and water elemental spirits? They nodded.
We should go and see Ran right now.
genta suggested. We all went up the long
cobblestone pathway and found Ran reading a
book in a chair while Belan was writing
something at his desk near the fireplace.
Daph, Ceri, can you let Ran and Belan
see you. As well as Genta, Rekin, and Magia.
They nodded and then turned to Rans surprised
face.
Fell, come meet your brother and sister.
I called. The little spirit came out and smiled up

101

at them. Daph and Ceri seemed to be adult

looking, their voices added to that fact as well.
Well, looks like I get to be a teacher!
Ran clasped her hands together, putting down
her book and jumping up with a certain spry
nature you do not find in woman her age.
We went down into the cavern and she
seemed to be thinking.
I have only taught Yei, believe it or not.
And she was a natural, so i hope you are as well.
When you are learning fire and water, it is easier
to learn them separate. Then, they can work
together. Like, you cant force two people to fall
in love right away, love takes time, it takes
friendship and trust. With fire and water, you
cant force them to work together right away, as
much as they might want to. Now I know that
Genta is not one for demonstration. But I am.
So if I am going to teach you something, I am
going to show you first. I find it easier to learn,
and to teach like that. Deri, Galla. The twins
appeared. They looked to Daph and Ceri right
next to me and they introduced themselves to
each other.
Now, first we will learn water. I started
that way, so we will start that way. She sent
Deri back, so that only Galla was remaining. I
sent Daph back, and Fell back. Leaving Ceri
there, he seemed very mature. Like Keoat.
Well, I think we will need some water,
Rekin can you fetch a bucket of water for us.
Keoat, can you do the same. Two buckets of
water in total please. They left to go fetch the

102

water and Ran took this time to explain some

things.
Elemental magic is very simple, maybe
the easiest to learn. All you need to do is learn
how to control each element. Once you learn to
do that, then you can use the elements in any
way you would like. They become like an
extension of you and are very easy to use. You
then to use them together. Elemental magic is
all about being creative. So there are no set
things you can do, you do what you wish with
them. And they do as you wish. Ran then took
each bucket of water into her own hands after
keoat and Rekin handed them over to her. She
had surprising strength for someone of her age.
You are probably wondering how I am
able to carry both of them. Thats easy. I am
controlling the water inside. So I am basically
just carrying the buckets. That is your first
challenge. Carry these buckets for a mile and
then back. This cavern stretches for at least 100
miles all the way across the country. So just
walk a mile and then back without dropping the
buckets. Try to control the water inside the
buckets. It makes it easier, and once you
complete this challenge, we can move on to the
next step.
I took the two big buckets, and once she
handed them to me I dropped them to the
ground due to the weight, and water spilled over
the side.
Failed, you have to start over. She said,
the spilled water lifted back into the bucket.
Before she handed them to me, I told Ceri to

103

take some of the weight off by putting Sellia in it

to control it. Once I took the water from Rans
hands I almost dropped it, but then it became
light as a feather, and then heavy as a rock. I
kept it up, as Ceri tried to control his power over
it.
I started walking.

104

Chapter 14
After about ten minutes Ceri seemed to
get the hang of controlling the water because it
wasnt as hard to carry. I decided I would start
to run, and told Ceri to keep the water inside the
bucket. As I began to run, the water inside
swished around, but whenever it seemed like it
was going to spill over the side, Ceri caught it
and it fell back into the bucket.
By the time I got to the end of the mile,
only seven minutes had passed and I ran all the
way back were Ran was standing in half that
time. When I returned so soon she held out her
hands to check if the same amount of water was
in the bucket, I was sure that I had completed
the challenge.
Failed. You have to start over. A small
drop was lost from this bucket. She lifted her
left arm to show what bucke it was from.
I need you to go and find that drop, put
it in the bucket, and come back and start over.
You need to be able to keep track of every single
drop, every single atom of water, or else you will
never have full control over the element.
So I went off, after about two minutes of
walking I thought about how far ahead the actual
goal of taking back Allion is. I mean, they are all
waiting on me, and of I cant master these
magics quickly then the Queen might stop us
somehow. I still have to awaken the other two
elements, and Light, and Dark magic.
Audrielle, I found the water. Ceri told
me picking it up and putting it in the bucket.

105

Good, lets go back and finish this thing.

We walked back and then we had to do the mile
again. As we ran there Ceri and I separated two
jobs, I would keep track of the amount and he
would make sure none spilled over. We didnt
need to stop at all there and the way back. I was
gasping for breath by the time we reached Ran
again.
Good job. Now, go into town for me and
pick up some silk robes for Yei. Yeis where
damaged. I nodded, I told Ceri he could go
back and Keoat decided to accompany me.
We walked through the market, silence
following me, threatening me with its doubts and
truths. There was a certain awkwardness
between Keoat and I. As I came out with the
robes a crowd was gathering by a man, he looked
young enough, but in his eyes I could see many
things, a life long lived. He was wearing a robe
over him so no one could fully see his face. I
went over and joined the crowd, Keoat joined
next to me. Then the man, began to tell a story.
A story about the beginning of this land.
A long time ago, humanity was in a war
with no reason except for dominance over the
world. Through all of this, something had to end
it.
A goddess noticed this, and decided to do
something about it. Her name, was Ren. She
then created a land, where there were immortal
people to keep the peace within the world.
After awhile mortal people began to
move to the land Ren created. The very people
that caused war everywhere else. The immortal

106

people became known as the Rennions. The land

was named Allion. She sat on a star, waiting to
see how things would turn out.
Ren had given up on this generation, in
hopes of the world truly being peaceful in the
future, she created an orb and put her power into
it. She told a man, one of the only good
Rennions left, to watch over it, and lead one who
he would think worthy to the Orb.
After it was used, what would be born
would be reincarnations of Ren, so that she
would be able to forever live on and protect
Allion, and accomplish her goal of a truly peaceful
nation. She hoped that the world would not
become corrupt over and over again.
A world never peace.
It took me a while to realize that he had
stopped the story, and I looked closer at the
man. He lifted his face for a moment, and in his
eyes, I noticed, was the same golden color as
mine. Our eyes stayed locked for a moment,
there was surprise in his eyes as he saw me.
Like he didnt believe I was standing there. He
got up and began to walk toward me.
Audrielle. He whispered, his voice
sounding older than he looked. Tears were
threatening to spill as they started streaming
down his face.
Do you know him? Keoat asked.
He has my eyes, Keoat. I breathed.
The man got closer and closer, and finally he was
standing before me.
Audrielle. You have no idea how long I
have waited to see you again. How is your

107

mother? He asked me. All of the warmth left

my body.
My mother, is dead. Who are you? I
asked him. He shook his head.
That will come in time. Im sorry to hear
about your mother I- He paused as he looked
behind him, guards started closing in on him.
The guards were from Mageia, I could tell from
their uniform. I have to go now, you are special
Audrielle. Learn from the story of Ren, in there is
where your destiny is. I have to leave now, I
hope we meet again soon. And then the two
guards took his arms and put them behind his
back.
No dont! I yelled trying to pry the man
from their grasps. I had so many questions for
him. Who was he, how does he know my
mother, how does he know, me? One of the
guards looked at me and pushed me back.
Audrielle! Keoat was at my side, helping
me up.
You better run, girl. Before we take you
with us. The guard warned me, the crowd had
run away back to where they came from and we
were alone on the street.
Audrielle, you cant sacrifice yourself
being caught. Keoat told me. I shook my head
in disappointment and nodded hesitantly.
The guard gave a victorious laugh.
Thats what I thought. As the guards walked
away with the man, he looked back at me one
more time, his golden eyes the very image of
mine. I then saw a shimmer of red hair under his

108

hood. The guards forced him to look ahead and

then they disappeared into the distance.
***
I rushed back, running with the robes in
my hand as Keoat tried to keep up behind me. I
flung open the door and my eyes moved around
the room rapidly as I searched for Ran. Once I
spotted her I gave Yei her robes and quickly
made my way over to Ran.
Why are you in such a hurry child? She
asked me, noticing my shallow breath as I
breathed in and out trying to regain some oxygen
in my lungs.
There...there was a man. I coughed
out. She sat up a little more in her chair.
Who was this man?
We need...to save him he is-
Why should save one man, what
happened to him?
He was taken by the guards!
People get taken everyday, thats why we
need to stop the Queen.
But that man is important!
Who is he? Belan chimed in.
That man...was my father.

Chapter 15
Rans face showed confusion and she held
her hand to her chin in thought. I thought your
father was dead. She pointed out simply.

109

So did I. But its no doubt, that man is

most definitely my father. She contemplated
what to do about it for a moment, seeming
stressed by this fact.
If we try to save him now, then we would
risk everything that we have worked up to, Im
sorry Audrielle, Im afraid its just not possible.
My hope faltered and I looked away from her
apologetic eyes wanting no pity. I understood, I
was still just a child after all, such foolish hopes
would not just magically happen.
I understand. Then I thought, if I could
train enough with all of the spirits, then I would
be able to save him when we take back Allion.
Maybe a little hope was still left, or just me being
a child again. I chose to wait and find out. I am
ready to move on in my water elemental
training. I addressed, she gave me a grin.
That is not your decision, but yes, you
are ready.
We went back down to the cavern for
training, and now it was finally getting serious.
No more running with buckets.
Water people say is one of the easiest
and one of the hardest magics to control. You
have to understand it, and once you do its yours.
Its not an understanding that can be forced.
And with the time we have its hard not to force
it. But you are the savior; I believe you can do
it.
So, how do I understand it? I asked
her.

110

You need to be where it resides. Go get

something youre not afraid to get wet and meet
me back down in here. Hurry now.
I nodded and made my way up to my
rooms. I choose tight cloth pants and a cloth
tunic. Before I could change I heard a knock on
my door. I opened it to see Genta there holding
something.
Hey, I umheard you were doing water
training and thought I would give you this. She
handed me a red cloth dress that fell down to my
knees.
It beautiful, are you sure? I dont want
to ruin it? I ran my hand over the soft texture
of it.
Itll be fine, plus itll go with your hair.
She giggled. I blushed running my hand through
my red hair and gave out a small chuckle.
Thanks, Ill take good care of it.
Im sure you will.
I went back into my rooms and changed
into the red dress. As I looked into the mirror I
was surprised it was me looking into it. The
dress really did go with my hair. I then noticed
that my eyes were even more golden then
before. Its like every day the color deepens. I
just shrugged it off and headed back down to the
cavern.
Keoat was reading a book to Rekin, he
then looked up to me and stopped mid-sentence
and just stared.
UmKeoat? I said bringing his attention
back to reality.

111

Oh, Audrielle you lookamazing. He

managed to breath out.
Genta gave it to me. I said, a slight hue
appearing on my cheeks.
Audrielle, are you ready? Ran came up
behind me.
I turned to her and nodded.
Great, follow me.
As I walked with her she stayed silent,
leaving me to wonder just where we were going.
Is a place really going to help me understand
water?
My thoughts then drifted to Keoat. Ive
not wanted to admit how things were lately, we
seemed to be awkward around each other. Ive
been looking at him different than before, and
Ive not wanted to admit it. But in silence you
find truth about things. This is why I dont like to
be alone with my thoughts.
I keep thinking about waking up next to
him, how nice it was to have it scent there. And
I really think, noI know now.
Im in love with him.

112

Chapter 16
We were walking for awhile before Ran
suddenly took a sharp turn and entered through
a sort of white looking rock arch. Ran whipped
around and held her hand up for us to stop.
Only those who control water may enter.
She said. She looked over to Keoat, who I had
not realized was there.
I understand. May I wait here? Read a
bit? Keoat asked.
Of course. Audrielle, come.
I nodded and followed her as she entered
through the white rocks, we then kept walking on
a sand path and I heard the faint sound of
rushing water.
I stayed quiet, feeling that was the
appropriate thing for this place. We finally
reached the end of the path, and Ran one again
took a sudden stop. I then noticed that we were
at the edge of a cliff. I looked up to see a
rushing waterfall, green vines wrapped itself
around the rock edges, and the beginning pool of
water at the bottom was a rush of waves and at
the end it was quiet and still.

113

How is water here possible, I thought we

were in snow land? I asked looking up to the
clear blue sky.
There is magic here, a Nirvana in the
middle a vast land of snow. Ran explained to
me like it was the most normal thing in the
world.
I then remembered we were on a cliffs
edge. How do I get down?
She gave me a light chuckle. You jump.
I what?
Jump, trust the sacred place to keep you
safe, if you really are worthy of controlling such a
force of water.
I looked down to the pool at least a mile
down. A sinking feel sat in my stomach and
doubts littered my thoughts. For any normal
person, this would be highly dangerous. They
say Im the savior; maybe its time to see it for
myself.
I swallowed harshly, closed my eyes, and
took a deep breath. The wind floated around my
hair, whipping it around.
I jumped.
I opened my eyes and the feeling of
adrenaline, fear, and gravity pulling on you gives
you the most overwhelming feeling. The pool got
closer with every second and I didnt know what
to do.
Then the water whispered to me.
Not words, but a feeling. Like it was
showing me what to do without actually showing
me.

114

The water burst up from the pool and

cradled around me. It spun around like a
tornado of water, and brought me to the pool,
dropping me in like a raindrop.
I was safe.
The water around me was
speaking to me again. It was like a song around
me was playing. I closed my eyes once again
and just floated there in the water. I understood
more and more as I just relaxed there. That was
I need to do. Just let the water tell me, if it
wants to be understood it will let me. And thats
what I will wait here for.

115

Chapter 17
I heard the whispers of secrets, the
feeling of memories. It seemed like I was in the
waterfalls for days, then months, then years. I
honestly lost all sense of time, and just drifted
with whatever was happening. Everything just
became a blur of understanding. Nothing else
mattered then what was happening in the
moment.
After awhile of this new sense of peace,
thoughts that did not fit filled my mind.
How is Mageia doing?
Where is everyone?
Isnt there a reason Im doing this in the
first place.
Arent I supposed to be saving the world,
with little time left to prepare to do that?
What if Im too late? My eyes shot open
and I looked around frantically trying to
remember what I was doing before this.
Youre fine child. I heard someone say.
I looked back to find Ran there looking at me
with no surprise in her eyes.
W-what, I I took another look around
reality surrounding me.
You were really in a trance, huh? Youre
fine, back with us. Ran gave me a reassuring
smile and held out her hand.
I took it and she helped me out of the
water. The dress I was wearing was completely
dry, which caught me off guard for a bit.
Everything was kind of catching me off guard.

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Once you have a true understanding of

peace, its kind of hard to go back, isnt it. Youre
kind of in a trance still. Youre going to have to
get use to the uncertain culture of this world for
awhile. So lets get you to the cavern and have
you take a seat. I just nodded to her directions
and the water carried us to the top of the
waterfall to the edge of the cliff. I really at the
time didnt think much of it. Anything and
everything seemed normal and confusing at the
same time. I followed her out of the arch of
rocks and back to where we usually trained.
Audrielle! I looked up to see everyone
sitting around, seeming like theyve been waiting
for me for hours. I set my eyes on Keoat who
had stood up and started walking toward me.
So Audrielle, have you come out a wiser
being like Ran said you would. Maybe youll be
the professors favorite now; even though school
is over he might change your grading. Keoat
laughed.
Wisdom and intelligence are two different
things Keoat. Ran corrected him.
I know, I know. So, Audrielle, how do
you feel? He asked me. I was confused by the
question, more as I wasnt really listening.
What? I looked over to him.
Feel anything different? I mean you did
just gain control over water for stars sake!
I thought about the question for a
moment. I sure as hell want to take a nap. I
gave a slight giggle. Keoat took a moment to get
it and he let out a laugh with me.

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Ok, rest now. You cant save Allion tired,

now can you? Ran started pushing me to the
door.
Yeah, Im going. Want to get rid of me
so bad? I gave Ran a pretend hurt look and she
just shook her head at my immature nature and
gave me a slight amused smile.
As I arrived at the top of the long steps
Genta was waiting there with a curious look.
How did it go? It hasnt been that long,
I know it doesnt years but still. She came up to
us, I just gave her a goofy face and eyed the
glass of water on the wooden table right next to
her.
Hey Ceri?
I called him through my thoughts,
wondering if it would work. And sure enough
within seconds his composed self was floating
next to me.
Yes Master?
Damn this was cool. I gave him simple
instructions and watched my little prank unfold.
As the water lifted from the glass and inched its
way over Gentas head, Ran gave me a sort of
confused look. I just held a finger to my lips,
warning her to stay quiet. She let out a slight
giggle.
It went well. I said through my muffled
giggles.
Whats so fun- she stopped short as the
water was released from Ceris control and the
water soaked her head and dripped over her face
like rain.

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She got over the shock of what just

happened and looked at me, figuring out this was
my doing. She gave a look of utter rage and I
bolted past her erupting in laughter. I went out
the door to the back of the home and looked
behind me to see Genta catching up at a
terrifying rate.
Oh shit I mumbled as I took a turn
around the house. Once I arrived at the front I
took a sudden stop and my eyes hardened.
Audrielle I swear- she looked closely at
my composure. Whats wrong.
I saw in front of me a small girl, running
for her life.

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Chapter 18
Get back her you little brat! A Royal
guard called from behind her. She tripped over a
big pile of snow and fell face down in it. She
rolled over, terrified, to be faced with the guard
lifting her up by the shoulder.
I dont think you know how much trouble
you're in girl. He hissed at her, basically
dragging her behind him. Her dark ember hair
damp with snow, and tears streaming from her
icy blue eyes.
Audrielle, dont. Genta warned. But I
was already walking toward them. She took after
me, grabbing my shoulder.
You cant.
I gave her a look I didnt know I could.
My anger of such treatment toward a child, not
even 7, fed to the fire inside me.
I cant just watch. Its not like me. My
voice came out low, but it would make even the
Queen cower for a moment.
Y-you might jeopardize the whole
operation. She reminded me.
I dont care. And with that I took off
after the girl, and Genta knew she couldnt stop
me.
The girl noticed me, she must of thought I
was running toward something else at first, but
the closer I got she then realized she was my
target.
The guard looked back to see what was
going on, and right as he turned his head my first

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connected with the side of his cheek with such

force that I heard a crack.
I helped the girl off the ground once he
was dow.
Run, and dont look back. I instructed
her. She nodded and scurried off like a deer.
I looked back to the guard, and he was
slowly getting up, regaining his composure.
I noticed a crowd forming, but I just held
up my fists again. Ready to take out my rage on
this guard. As he started to get ready to attack
me I punched him again, this time he spun
around before he fell down. I didnt wait for him
to get back up this time. I just got down to his
level and let out all my anger I had pent up on
his face.
Audrielle! I heard a familiar voice
behind me. But I put it at the back of my mind. I
was harshly lifted from the man, my hands
covered with blood, bruised from the constant
impact.
I whipped my head to see it was another
guard lifting me up.
Youre coming with me. He said. I tried
to fight back, but I was then hit ever the head so
hard that my vision started to fade. I looked
past the guard and saw Keoat in the distance,
being held back by a cluster of guards. He
reached his hand out toward me.
Audrielle! He managed to break the wall
of guards only to be kicked back down. He
looked up in desperation, and his frightened look
was the last one I saw before I blacked out, and
felt myself being carried away.

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Chapter 19
I woke up to the sudden impact of hitting
the ground. I heard the slamming of a type of
door and look up to see in my blurred vision to
see that I was in a cell, and the guard was
walking away. Leaving me there.
I held my hand to my pounding head and
looked to my hands. My eyes widened as I
realized they where covered in blood, and I then
remembered what had happened.
What...the hell...did I do?
Blinded by rage and my reasoning
impaired by my time in the waterfall, Ive gotten
myself in a mess that I didnt know how to get
out of.
I pounded my hand to the cold stone wall
in frustration.
Why was I acting like this? Losing control
so much? I wasnt like this before. I knew that
for sure, that I would get what I needed to do
done.
But I beat that man. Over...and over.
Until he was nearly dead. I probably would have
killed him if I wasn't not stopped. The girl was
saved, why did I have to go on? Where was that
rage coming from? I could of just ran after the
girl disappeared in the distance. Why was I so
stupid?
How the hell was I supposed to save Allion
like this?
Audrielle? I snapped my head to the
bars of a door holding me inside of this stone
box.

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Keoat? I asked, surprised at the chalky

tone of my voice.
Ran in bailing you out He said. He
looked like he wanted to say something. And like
I did when he told me about his sister, I just
waited for him to tell me.
How? He choked out.
Excuse me?
How could you be so stupid? You know
how lucky you are it turned out this way? What
if they took you to the king? Why did you act to
rashly? The girl was free! Why did you continue
to bloody that guard so bad? He panted, out of
breath. He looked to me out of desperation for
an answer to explain all of this. Which I didnt
have.
I dont know. I whispered.
He didnt believe it. What?
I dont know, okay! I was just so angry,
and I took it out on him! At least it wasn't an
innocent person! Arent on my side?
He looked hurt by this.
Im always on your side! I just...thought
I knew you. But I guess I dont who you are
anymore. It was like he slapped me across the
face, or my mother died all over again. A single
tear was forming in my glassy looking eyes, and
right at that moment Ran arrived followed by a
guard who unlocked the door and swung it open.
Youre lucky my rank can get you out.
Next time...you wont be so lucky. She let it out
in a harsh tone and she then turned her back and
started walking, Keoat following behind her. I
just walked behind them, staying silent. Keoats

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words still ringing in my head like a knife digging

deeper and deeper into my heart. And the
silence he was giving me was just a twist to that
knife.
We took a wagon all the way back, the
silence didn't fade. I knew he didn't want to talk
me, so I just let it go. I didn't want to make him
even angrier with me.
Hes been angry with me before, but not
like this. And it was hurting me, the person I
love telling me they didn't know who I was. It
was the worst feeling. And I just wanted to fix it.
As we arrived back I just ran up to my
room.
I need to get control of myself, I don't
know what was happening to me, but it needed
to stop.
There was a rush outside my door, at first
I thought it was someone who followed me up
the stairs. But then I realized all the noise was
around Magias door.
Then there was a pounding on my door.
Come in.
Keoat came in with a look of worry on his
face. He was panting, like he had been running
around.
Keoat, whats wrong.
He put his hand to the door to try to catch
his breath.
Magia, shes he took in a big breath.
Magia is gone.

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Chapter 20
What do you mean gone, Keoat? I said
in a rushed tone. I then remembered the last
interaction I had with her. Whatever she
remembered, she was most definitely better off
not knowing.
He gave a frustrated and panicked groan.
I mean shes not in her room, and shes not in
the house, and shes not anywhere n
ear the
house either.
My breathing started to quicken as I
thought about how this was my fault.
If only I didnt leave her in the state she
was in.
If only I was easier to talk too.
If only I didnt let her try out magic.
If only...if only..
Audrielle come on, she cant have gone
too far. Keoat snapped me out of my thoughts.
I just nodded and followed him out the door. We
walked all around calling out her name.
Magia! Magia! I yelled. Tears where
biting at me as I thought of what dangers she
could be in at the moment. I tried to pick out her
sellia but I couldnt sense anything.
Magia I was nearly ready to give up.
Im so sorry...I-
Dont blame yourself. Keaot said to me.
I was kneeling in the snow, about ready to burst
into tears.
How can I not? She was just a little girl,
if only I hadnt bothered that guard, I could be

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there for her. A tear fell down my face and hit

the snow.
The moment you start blaming yourself is
the moment you start changing. He told me. At
this moment, I didnt really understand what
Keoat was telling me, later on though it will make
full sense to me.
Yeah.. I just trailed off. I pulled my
knees close to me and buried my face in them.
He came and wandered next to me, sitting down
and pulling me into his arms.
I really dont understand you
sometimes. He sighed and rested his chin on
my head. I really enjoyed times like this. Just
me and him, there for each other. But its
different now, were turning into such different
people that now we fight and dont understand
each other.
Are you still mad at me. I asked softly.
Keoat didnt answer at first. He let the silence
answer it, the answer being is that yes; he was.
He finally spoke. You shouldnt put
yourself in unnecessary danger, you saved the
girl you should have ran.
I know. I dont know whats gotten into
me lately. Theres something different and Keoat
Im- I paused for a moment, tears started
flowing down my face to the point I was crying.
Im scared of myself. I then went into an all
out sob and Keoat then held me to his chest as I
cried there.
Dont be. Is all he said as he stroked
my hair, trying his best to comfort me for
something he didnt even begin to understand.

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The weight of everything, the responsibility and

my changing personality was making me fall
through life. To the point that when it really
matters, I might not be able to get back up
again. It was Kralim.
Wandering alone yet again my sweet
Golden Eyes. Kralim said in a hushed tone as he
held out a hand for me to take.
Yeah, Im looking for someone. I said,
taking his hand and then I was hauled up.
And who might this person be? He
questioned me curiously.
A little girl, she was traveling with us
before she went missing. I answered, brushing
the snow off my bottoms.
How unfortunate. He gave his
condolences.
Yeah, and its all my fault to. Im not on
top of things, and acting rashly and it doesnt
even bother me. Sometimes even, I like seeing
those who hurt my loved ones in pain. Even if it
wasnt the guard personally that stole my father
from me, he was directly associated with the
Queen. So hurting him gave me a sense of
pleasure, a sense of...I dont know. Happiness,
to see him in pain. There is something wrong
with me, rash and unwanted thoughts keep
flooding my brain I...I dont know what to do,
and everyone expects me too. I huffed as I took
in a big breath.
Sounds like ya got problems girly. The
girl didnt happen to have black hair and black
eyes did she? He asked me. My senses perked
up at that sentence.

127

Yes! I exclaimed eagerly.

She was taken away by a
guard...but- He paused. She went with them,
willingly.

128

Chapter 21
We went back to Rans house and we all
sat around the dinner table to talk about the
important matter at hand.
What are we going to do about Magia? I
asked.
We cant do anything. Shes gone, she
might be gone for good. We can either just hope
she wonders back; or maybe well run into her
someday. I know this sounds selfish and mean
but we dont have time to save one little girl. As
Ran said this I slammed my hand on the table.
We dont have time you say? I say
bullshit to time. We dont have time to save my
father, dont have time to save Magia...who dont
we have time for next? If I know about
someones suffering, you expect me to ignore it?
Especially when I know them...care about them.
You say you know it sounds selfish, youre damn
right it is. Well I cant just sit back and watch. I
let out a last breath and Ran raised herself from
her seat, but before she said anything I said one
last thing. Im going to save someone, as the
saviour. Like Im suppose too. And I then ran
out of the house and started to search for Magia
again.
Magia! I screamed in the dark of the
night. Magia, please!
I am useless.
I cant even save one little girl. Its
getting to the point, where I dont think I can
even save myself.
I then heard footsteps behind me.

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Audrielle! I heard my name being

called. I whipped my head around to see Keoat
and took off running.
Keoat didnt even see me in the dark of
the night, so I made a quick escape of the
situation.
As I hid behind a wall of stone, sliding
down; trying to catch my breath.
I then heard I rustling behind me and was
about to move, but then the person standing
next to me was not who I expected. Which for
some reason calmed my nerves a bit.
Kralim? He sat next to me, and I was
confused as to why he was here. He was the
same robes as when I met him in Touxulia.
Hello Gold One, I see you are distressed
yet again. Can I help in any way?
Im looking for a girl named Magia, black
hair and black eyes. Maybe 11 or 12 years of
age.
Sorry, havent see her. I sighed,
starting to lose hope.
Why are you in Anthropina? I asked
him.
I was called here for a meeting, one that
has been awaited for thousands of years. After
all, you are the chosen one. When he says this I
look over to him, confused.
How did you know?
The more accurate question would be
who am I really? A name and age is all you
know. Before I could respond to that I heard
my name being called by Keoat and looked

130

behind me to see him approaching. When I

looked back to Kralim, he was gone.
Audrielle! Keoat then caught up to me,
as I tried to brush off my weird interaction with
Kralim.
You really need to stop running away, it
doesnt solve anything. Keoat says to me. And
then instead of yelling he pulls me into a hug.
Im sorry. I say. I just...I am not very
good standing by and watching the people
around me get hurt.
I know, but we need you to focus on your
destiny. Now come back, finish your elemental
training; move on to the next and then next until
you are finished and ready. Only when you are
ready can we really do this. Everyone in this
rebellion have been waiting for you, and I might
not have known it but I have been waiting for
you to free this world too. I knew throughout my
whole life of knowing you, that you were special.
You were meant to do something great. And
dont forget, you have a whole rebellion backing
you up. I will always be there for you, youre not
in this alone.
A tear was sliding down my face.
Thank you. I gave him a big smile and
hugged him even tighter.
Of course, youre my best friend.

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Chapter 22
As we arrived back I searched around for
Belan. I wanted to get my training done as soon
as possible to move on to the next. Keoat was
right, the only way I was going to save anyone is
if I focused and on getting stronger. I saw Ran
and Belan reading in the den of the house.
Ran? Her name escaped my mouth
quietly. She was probably more than pissed at
me. She peered at me over her book, when she
saw my sorry expression her face softened. She
set down her book, and Belan sat down his as
well and turned to me.
Now, I dont condone of you talking to
my wife how you did. All she is doing is trying to
help you, trying to get you to see the road to
your destiny. I know it seems like too much, but
you arent alone. By the end of your training you
will have grown not just in strength, but as a
person.
I turned to Ran after Belan said this. Im
sorry. I have no excuse for acting the way I did.
I hope you can forgive my ill temper.
It was for the right reasons my child, I
understand. But in the long run, the reasons are
not enough to make up for putting all of us in
danger. Remember than for the future. I forgive
you. I gave a relieved sigh and Ran then got up
and nodded over to Belan, who also made his
way out of his chair.
Your training in water is over. There is
no more I can teach you. What you have
completed in less than a month many have taken

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years to try to master. Now, we move on to

fire.

133