CHAPTER 31

“No one can ever change the fact that you are my precious.”

The Governor’s place was successfully torn apart by the Kazans after the Meijin was defeated. Visanté and Ismael led a few surviving men to capture Dymaz who was hiding in his chamber. Kaza City received Raviex, Christine, Kyoden, Sonia and Lorenne with a roar of jubilation as they returned from their fight. It was a time for celebration as the people of the City of Bravery were finally free from Dymaz’s tyranny.

The Yamist and Messenger of Bravery came forward to them with smiles of triumph. “Kaza City will live in peace from now on thanks to all of you,” said Visanté.

“It is our victory together, Visanté,” corrected Raviex. “I’m glad to know that my people will live in joy again.” The Kazans, though suffered casualties themselves, were excited that their city would be restored to its previous glory. The injured did not flinch at their wounds nor did they complain about their injuries. Everything was worth it for the better future.

Kyoden looked around in swift glances. “Hey, where are Yexi and Shenjoon? I don’t see them anywhere.”

“Yexi brought Shenjoon back to my place once Dymaz’s defeat was secured. She was worried for his condition. I think he exceeded his limit during the fight,” informed Visanté.

“Poor Shenjoon, I should go and see if there’s anything I can do to help him,” suggested Lorenne kindly.

Visanté nodded in agreement. “I have assigned the women to take care of the medical needs of those who were involved in the battle. Some of the men who are still capable of work will be helping me and Ismael group the bodies of those who had sacrificed their lives for our victory. Tomorrow morning, we will give them the heroes’ burial. They will know that they did not die in vain.”

“I will help,” offered Raviex. Not too long ago, he had told Keith that casualties were unavoidable in a war. But he, as the Prince, could not deny the guilt for the lost ones despite the fact that it was truly not his fault. He felt a gentle squeeze of comfort on his hand from Christine.

“I guess I’ll help out too,” said Kyoden as well but both of the guys’ offer for help was shot down by Visanté.

“You guys had it rougher than us. Your battle with the Meijin must have taken quite a toll on you. I believe you all need a good and well-deserved rest more than we do now. Return to my place first. I will join you shortly when we’re done here,” he insisted.

Sonia spoke for the team. She knew they wanted to help out of thoughtfulness but she also knew that their bodies were about to collapse due to exhaustion. They had been up all night, battling all-out. Their worn-out physiques would not be able to assist Visanté much anyway. “Once we’ve regained strength, we will do what we can for the Kazans.”

“Oh yes, before I forget, Lorenne, could you please place a binding spell on Dymaz and cage him up nice and tight? We’d like to make sure he will be punished for all his crimes,” said Visanté, smiling grimly.

“My pleasure to do so,” said Lorenne, her magical staff ready in her hand.

Visanté escorted her to the porch of the mansion where Dymaz was tied up. Lorenne grimaced in repulsion at the sight of the obese Governor. So did the others who had followed her.

“What is that ugly and oversized thing?” uttered Kyoden with a face of disgust, giving one the impression that those very words left foul taste in his mouth. Sonia did not retort his insult because she had to agree with it. If there was any word which could represent more than the word ‘obese’, it would be a very good time to use it then. She doubted his feet could support the weight of his enormous body.

Dymaz was sprawled on the ground and seemed to be barely conscious. His large nose was broken and bleeding. His thick lips were cut. It was easy to assume that some Kazans had decided to deliver their punches and kicks on him as early payment for the miseries that he had given to them.

“Please, I beg you… no more…” he moaned, cringing fearfully at them.

Visanté ignored him and told Lorenne to begin whenever she wanted. She stomped the end of her staff onto the ground and muttered incantations in a strange tongue, none that Raviex had ever heard of, he was sure.

A glowing purple rope materialised in midair. Dymaz squirmed in panic, trying to put some distance between him and the snake-like rope. But the rope circled him and knotted itself. It went out of visibility after that.

“Cut the ropes off him, Visanté,” spoke Lorenne calmly. Trusting in her, he did so without questioning her. The ropes fell off him harmlessly. Dymaz wanted to run for it but discovered that none of his limbs would respond to his command.

“Anyone besides me cannot free him and because Visanté and the others ardently wish that you face justice, I’m summoning a guardian to ensure that you cannot leave this spot,” said Lorenne with mocked sweetness. “Come forth, Teruya!”

A white altar shone in front of Lorenne. A huge beast appeared. It resembled a full-grown polar bear with vicious fangs. It growled gruffly at Dymaz who whimpered and hid his head beneath his fleshy arms. When it saw Lorenne, it welcomed her friendlily and nuzzled up against her.

“Good Guardian, Teruya. Please guard him for us,” she said politely. It blinked at her meaningfully. Giving it a last rub behind its ears, she turned to her friends. “Teruya is one of Jerusyn’s Guardian Beasts in Amaea. I’m on good terms with it. So, it will do my biddings. With it around, anyone who dares come within its range will be its… meal.”

“And you’re sure it won’t make Dymaz its meal?” Kyoden asked.

“Oh, so long as he doesn’t try anything which Teruya deems funny,” she smiled.

“Alright, now that it’s done, you can all go now. Just leave the rest to me, yeah?” Visanté shooed them away.

Lorenne tapped on the Tao-yang couple’s room’s door softly and it was opened silently by Yexi who smiled at the sight of the group. She pressed a forefinger on her lips and beckoned them to come into the room for she knew their concern for her little husband.

They saw the Flamese boy fast asleep on the bed; his bruises and cuts were already well attended to. There was no need for any healing skills. His black hair which was partially tied up into a small bun for most of the time, was now let down. Kyoden watched him respectfully, not forgetting how Shenjoon had impressed him with his own abilities.

The dutiful wife herded them out of the room after a full minute. “Don’t worry about Shenjoon. He will be his energetic self again when he wakes up,” assured Yexi. “In the meantime, I think you should all follow his example and take a good rest too.”

“Not just us, Yexi, you should also rest,” said Raviex.

“Indeed, Raviex.” She bowed and went into her room.

Kyoden stretched his arms wide and yawned. “I gotta catch up with my beauty sleep. I wouldn’t want any wrinkles on my flawless face, no?”

“Whatever, Kaneshiro,” Sonia muttered. They both entered their rooms which were directly opposite to one another. Kyoden and Sonia certainly did not waste any time to disappear into the rooms.

“You coming, Christine?” asked Lorenne, a hand on the door’s handle. She did not catch the answer as she was yanked into the room and the door was shut.

“Yeah, I’m coming,” she said. The auburn-haired girl gazed at her right hand which was held by Raviex all along. “Well…”

“I’ll see you in a few hours, right?” he murmured, looking at her tenderly.

A playful smile broke across her face. “Of course, where else would I go if it’s without you, silly?” She brushed his front hair once teasingly and giggled. “Pleasant dreams this time, Raviex.”

“Ryn—”

Raviex stared at the door which was closed on him. He sighed and then chuckled, ruffling the back of his brown-blonde head. He was contented that their relationship was mended and felt a little giddy and breathless at the thought that they now shared a much special bond compared to before.

Standing over him, Yexi caressed Shenjoon’s face lovingly, careful not to disturb him in his sleep. She sensed for his heartbeat. The melodic rhythm told her that he was in a calm state. One day, this young heart would grow into a valiant one, burning with infinite passion to fight for the Light.

She was astounded when she saw him execute the skill 365 Palms of Cosmic Divinity. Although it was one of the Tao-yang family’s legacies, his grandfather did not teach it to him. Shenjoon could not possibly let his grandfather know that he could perform it because… he had copied and stole it from him probably when he witnessed a stimulated match between him and his father.

“You’re so impatient, Shenjoon,” she whispered, smiling at his peaceful features. Grandpapa would have taught you when he thinks you are ready. Look at what you have done to yourself and I was worried sick for you. You have such a long way to travel still.

Nevertheless, you have proven so much more of the strength you have attained. I am convinced now, Your Holiness, Elinas, that my decision is the right one.

She slid her legs underneath the blanket and laid her head on the pillow with the least movement. Pressing her palm against his, Yexi eased her mind to sleep.

Droplets of water splashed onto his military uniform-like clothes as he stood at the edge of a small waterfall. The water fell noisily, splattering on the rocks beneath it but the noise was not enough to muffle the clear and soothing music of a harp produced from a silver orb which was descending to him.

A tall woman of celestial beauty emerged from the orb; her hair was long and their colour, shining silver. They parted at the centre back and were tied to the front separately with two red ribbons in a criss-cross pattern.

She took a deep breath of the fresh air and sighed in envy. “If this is the way you spend your time in the mortal’s world, Calith, I wouldn’t mind joining you any time.”

“I thought you weren’t the type to follow Kaisen’s crazy examples, Elinas,” said Calith, opening his amber-gold eyes to see the goddess of Inspiration in his company.

Her enchanting amethyst eyes met his, a powerful gaze combined with a touch of longing. “I think... a goddess like me has the rights to visit someone she misses and wishes to see.”

Calith felt his cheeks grew warm. He averted his sight to the waterfall and pretended to be very absorbed with it. Elinas and Lorenne were two completely different individuals (besides their mortality status). Elinas had been his closest female companion ever since their creation. No one could have known and understood him better than her.

Long before he stumbled across Lorenne, Elinas had clarified her feelings for him. It was an open secret among the other members of the Light. Unlike Lorenne who, when he first met her, lacked the confidence Elinas always radiated. She was a fragile mortal whose sweet innocence caused him to love her so irrationally.

Occasionally, he would wonder if things would have been better off if he had chosen to accept Elinas’ feelings and never come to be acquainted with Lorenne. Then, she would not have to go through the suffering she was undergoing now because of him.

Elinas turned away dejectedly. She did not need Jerusyn’s ability to read another’s mind to know what he was mulling over about. At moments like these, she wished she did not understand him too well. She restarted the conversation to smoothen the situation.

“Calith, is it really fine for you to involve yourself with mortal affairs?” There was no scepticism, only worry. When he refused to answer her, she continued cautiously. “I am referring to that boy, Shajou. Xeloah seems to disapprove your coming in contact with him.”

He weighed up the decision to share his knowledge with her but who could he believe in more than her, the one who took his side in spite of his sin and love for another that was not her? She deserved his full trust after how she had risked her own godly status and defied Xeloah in his terrifying wrath because of him.

“Not too long ago, Kaisen visited me too and his words drew suspicion in me, Elinas. The Kaza War… the outcome, it was far out of our expectation. I honestly thought it had something to do with Kairos and Chronos but Kaisen insisted that there was someone or at least something different at work, assisting the Darkness too much that the balance of the Light and the Darkness was toppled over.

For once, Kaisen is above all of us. I was convinced by his theory. My absence in Amaea is not the primary reason the balance is destroyed. The Kaza War is a sign that the Darkness has overridden the Light. There is a high chance that the Darkness has initiated a move which is veiled from us.”

Calith observed her reaction as he spoke. Her eyes penetrated and searched his, perhaps hoping that he would be bluffing. But why would he? His statement was a serious one and definitely of non-humour material.

“Calith, don’t you think that Jerusyn would have known?” she voiced her only reservation about what he said. The suggestion that their counterparts were conspiring to overthrow them unsettled her.

“We might possess extraordinary abilities, Elinas, but our abilities have their respective weaknesses and flaws. While we may be called the mortals’ gods, we are merely instruments to connect them to the Creator, the Ancient Spirit. My current state is evidence to our imperfection,” said Calith with repentance. “Life forms with sensitive life force can feel the imbalance clearly. They are responding in ways to the unnatural phenomenon. My Yamist is one of them.”

Elinas stared at him. “Christine Falcon? But is it not because you… have yet to present her, her Scroll?”

He shook his head to deny it. “On the contrary, Elinas, my banishment has interfered with the timing of it but I have still planned to bestow her Scroll to her supposed Messenger, Keith Falcon but I am unable to when I should be able to. If I am not mistaken, Christine is the only Yamist who has not received hers.

The timeline explains that my exile worsens the imbalance. Christine’s soul reacted to it by rejecting the Scroll without her knowing it. It’s the first time that a Yamist’s soul rejects a given Scroll. Something extraordinary is going on. Surely, I am not one who would forsake his Yamist.”

“Not at all,” she admitted. History recorded the god of Righteousness as the most promising among the other gods to his Yamist. Why should there be an exception to his existing Yamist?

“That boy, Shajou as he is called now; he was the one trailing me for quite some time. I assumed he was the source of the disruption of the balance. However, my investigation showed it to be a wrong hunch. He may be a pawn in the player’s game.”

“You are trying to save his soul then?” she queried.

Calith smiled bleakly at her. “He is so young and has a kind heart. It justifies enough for him to get a second chance to turn over a new leaf.”

Elinas leaned her head against his arm fondly and said, “You are kind; too, Calith and I believe you will get your second chance. You will return to Amaea one day.”

Deep in the Valkyr Empire’s fortress amidst the Tempest of Poseidon, a boy’s lifeless body was seated on a misshapen chair carved out of a rough rock in an empty dark cellar.

“I should have realised that you’re much too soft, Shajou,” whispered the man with the snake-like mask into his ear though he could not listen. “Saving your enemy is something I cannot tolerate. For that, I will make you do the things you so hatefully do for me, things which are far more terrible than what you have done thus far—without your conscience, without a will to resist.”

Lazachus Valkyr smirked as he left the boy who was now only a living shell. “You are my pawn, Shajou. It is a fate you cannot break away from.”

Dressed in clean clothes and after a refreshing bath, Raviex walked over to the still slumbering Kyoden and nudged him. “Hey, Kyoden, I think you should get up now. Everyone’s up already.”

To his surprise—more like horror, actually—Kyoden grabbed at him blissfully and made smooching actions. Raviex let out a frightful yelp and tried hard to yank himself away from him.

“Kyoden, what in Calith’s name are you doing?!” exclaimed Raviex, panicking at the closing distance of their lips. “Let go of me before I do anything I would regret later!”

The Haikenese came to his senses the same instant the Prince wanted to do something drastic to defend his dignity. “W…what…?” he stirred, his feminine eyes opened. He shrieked when he found himself in a dangerously close distance with Raviex. Instantaneously he let go of the Prince, gasping for air.

“Raviex Katelion, what in Kaisen’s name are you doing?!”

Raviex looked at him, wide-eyed and speechless. “You were the one who jumped on me, trying to… trying to—”

“And just when I thought you were a straight guy who loves Christine!”

“I am a straight guy!” he said defensively. How did things turn out this way?!

Kyoden chuckled. “Oh, Raviex, now I understand your secret desire! Well, well, I promise Christine would never know of it.”

“I have no secret desire for men!” Raviex practically shouted, beet red in the face.

“Now, now, let’s not live in denial…”

“I’m not living in denial, Kyoden!”

The other laughed heartily. “Of course, you’re not. I was only joking with you.” He stretched and got to his feet to go wash up.

“Err… Kyoden, just what were you dreaming about?” asked Raviex before he disappeared out of his sight.

“About you,” he said playfully.

Raviex felt an overwhelming wave of nausea after immediately hearing Kyoden’s answer.

Of course not, Raviex, even I am wondering who I was dreaming about. Kyoden sighed. There goes my habit of forgetting dreams when I wake up, he thought disappointedly.

Collecting his cool, Raviex tossed Kyoden’s bad joke out of his head and went out of his room. He saw the back of the red-haired girl at the front yard, talking enthusiastically with the now active Flamese boy. She heard his footsteps and spun around, a bright smile on her face.

“Hey there, sleepyhead, about time you come out of your royal chamber,” teased Christine.

Raviex blushed. “You’re up early, Ryn.” He saw Yexi reading a book while sitting on a swing nearby which was made by two thick ropes hung over a firm tree branch and a wooden plank as the seat.

Shenjoon left the scene, feeling rather unwanted at the moment and somewhat awkward. He let out a groan of boredom, sauntering towards his wife. The pair of silver-grey eyes looked up at him from the book, her lips forming a smile.

“You don’t seem very happy, Shenjoon.” She gestured for him to sit next to her on the swing.

He sat down and sniffed. “I don’t get it, Yexi. I thought Christine disliked Raviex. But now, she’s so nice to him. Christine was about to teach me some of her combat moves…”

Yexi chuckled. So that’s why he’s upset, she mused. “I’m sure if Christine said she would teach you, she eventually will. She is just appreciating the time she is having with the Prince.”

Frowning at her, befuddled, he said, “You’re not making it any easier for me to understand too.”

“When she acted coldly towards him, it doesn’t necessarily mean that she disliked him. There might have been a misunderstanding between them. Now that they have cleared it, they are fine together,” said Yexi patiently.

He hummed as he brooded over her words. “Does that mean that if we have a misunderstanding, we will be like how they were?”

“Even if we do, you know that I still care about you more than myself,” she remarked.

Shenjoon shuddered. “I’m okay, Yexi, you should care about yourself. I mean…,” he glanced sideway at her, “I wouldn’t want anything to happen to you…because of me.” She giggled at his discomfort. He stood up abruptly; there were obvious pink on his fair cheeks. “Whatever that means…” he added hastily before walking off with his round urn. “Girls are such a bother.”

More than half an hour later (after being rushed and yelled at by Sonia because he was taking such a painstakingly long time), Kyoden was prepared to leave the wooden house. The gang of friends strolled to the beach under the evening sky. Visanté who was the latest to rest but the earliest to rise, had informed Yexi (she woke up comparatively early too!) that dinner would be at the beach.

While Christine and Shenjoon resumed their conversation regarding hand-to-hand combat skills, Kyoden held Raviex back to speak to him in private. He made sure no one was in the earshot beforehand.

“We didn’t exactly have the chance to talk this morning. So, you’re with Christine now?” he questioned secretly.

Raviex exhaled softly. It was in his expectance that Kyoden would talk to him about it. “Well… I suppose you can put it that way.”

“But…” Kyoden’s voice was so low that he had to strain his ears to listen. “What about that girl who’s waiting for you on Floating Land?”

The Prince’s countenance condemned himself for the dilemma and guilt he was grappling with inside him. “I’ll find a way to tell her about Ryn when I go back to the Capital.”

“I trust you do like Christine sincerely in a special way… Let’s just hope the girl understands and is able to accept… err… the sudden end of the relationship,” said Kyoden unconvincingly.

He stared at the sand his bare feet were stepping on. I know who my heart is with now. I will protect Ryn from any harm. That’s a lifetime’s promise—a promise which will harm another who I care about as well. Sweet Airemi, how I dread the day I have to face Kairalina…

Kyoden nudged him from his spacing out. “Heads up, Christine’s coming.”

Christine peered at Raviex. “Are you still tired? You don’t look too good.”

He glared at the Haikenese’s back. He was moving ahead to regroup with the others, leaving them behind. “I’m fine, Ryn,” he said reassuringly.

“Great!” she beamed. “Let’s go, then, everyone’s waiting for their Prince!”

When he did not budge, she turned back and asked worriedly, “What’s wrong?”

“Umm… Do I get to be escorted by my fair lady?” he enquired innocently.

She gawked at him, tongue-tied. When she recovered, she declared, “No way, I’m not escorting anyone anywhere.” Sticking her tongue out at him roguishly, she ran off before he responded.

“Christine Falcon, how dare you disrespect a royalty!” he yelled at her jokingly and gave chase.

Dinner was an understatement when they saw what Visanté and the women laid out for them on a large square table. It was closer to a feast! The numbers of traditional Kazan dishes which were served could not possibly have lost to a meal Raviex generally had in the palace, therefore the phrase, ‘A meal fit for a king’. Since the Prince insisted, Visanté joined them but the women dared not for they thought they should honour him by remembering their lowly status before the royal blood.

The air was cooling with a slight salty scent. The sky turned dark and a campfire was set up to give them warmth and light as they carried on with their dinner after a prayer of gratefulness to the Light. Since most of the group besides Christine had never tasted Kazan food, they had to overcome the sense of unfamiliarity with them (Mabluku Territory was partially influenced by the Kazan culture).

“This is one of the more famous dishes around here. It’s called daging rendang,” introduced Visanté, referring to the plate which held beef cooked in the colour of brownish-black, which seemed to be mixed with coconut flesh shavings.

Raviex, Sonia and Lorenne hesitated upon eating it due to the colour. They had never seen anything like it in their places of origin. Christine took some happily and began chewing it with white rice. Kyoden blinked at it twice, but after sniffing it, scooped a large portion of it onto his plate greedily.

They stared at him. He looked up unknowingly. “What…? Just because it’s black, it doesn’t make it inedible. Back in Haiken, we have food that’s of this colour too, like the seaweed we use to wrap sushi,” he said, stuffing a mouth full of the daging rendang into his mouth. He shifted it around in his mouth, savouring the taste of it. “This is good stuff, people. It’s kinda’ spicy but you just gotta’ love it!”

Visanté laughed at his recommendation. The Fierell sisters ate it and were also delighted. It was something new and fresh to their taste buds. Raviex nibbled a little of it complete with his dining etiquette which he had practised since young. He had never experienced eating spicy food as it was not really approved in the Royal Palace to take it. However, after the first time, Raviex made a mental note to promote it in the palace.

“Try some serunding with pulut,” said Visanté, and then quickly added eagerly, “Let’s not forget the satay! One of my own personal favourites!”

He enjoyed watching his friends literally fell in love with his race’s food. Serunding is dried minced meat while pulut is made out of sticky rice. Satay is basically chunks of meat which is barbequed over the fire strung together using a neatly cut and thin bamboo stick.

Soon, they were launching themselves onto the varieties of dishes without any uncertainty. Most Kazan delicacies were spicy but they were, too, bursting with tastes of rich ingredients and spices.

Two hours later, they were officially done eating. They thanked Visanté and the humble women for the pleasurable and delicious meal. As they walked, a question developed in Kyoden’s mind. “Visanté, I thought the people were living in poverty. Where did all those lovely food—bless those who cooked them again—come from?” he asked.

He answered with an amused smile, “We savaged the cold freezer in the kitchen of Dymaz’s mansion and there was quite a handsome amount of leftovers. We can’t hold a huge celebration for you due to the post-war work and casualties but the Kazans thought it was the least they could do for you guys by providing a filling dinner.”

“Oh, they got that right,” Kyoden quipped. A small laughter was heard but as it died down, Raviex announced that they were to leave tomorrow early before daybreak. It was to avoid any large activities of sending off which might attract attention.

“Besides, I have told Erik to send some officials from the Floating Land to capture Dymaz. I wouldn’t want to be seen here as well,” he informed his friends. They nodded in agreement.

The following morning, they set off as according to plan. Visanté was the only one who sent them off and also the only one who was allowed to keep the genuine memories involving the presence of the Prince. Yexi had modified the Kazans memories through producing huge sound waves over the city to remember Raviex merely as a person named Cedric with the revelation of his true identity was erased completely.

Visante presented a silk pouch to Raviex as they spoke their farewells. “Ismael discovered this in Dymaz’s bedchamber. We believe it belonged to the late King Levon, your father, Raviex.”

Speechless, he accepted the pouch and loosened its top. His slender fingers reached into it and retrieved the King’s Rysalis which was worn by his father and was thought to have disappeared during the Kaza War.

The Rysalis is a long necklace, strung together by beads. It is a religious item and a tool of prayer. A believer of the Light would normally own one. The King’s Rysalis, however, is unique as it is classified as one of the Royal Treasures which could only be used by the King or the Crowned Prince.

“How did Dymaz get his hands of this?”questioned Raviex, eyes still transfixed on the gleaming sapphire gemstones that made up this necklace.

The Yamist of Bravery shook his head. “We do not know. He could have found it and chose to keep it for himself. We are more concerned about returning it back to its rightful owner.”

“Thank you. You have no idea how much this means to me,” said the Prince.

“Well, this is it. If there is the need for it, I will assist you in defending this Kingdom from your enemies, Raviex. When you become king, please know that you will have this city’s full submission,” vowed Visanté.

The two exchanged a firm handshake. “Take care of my people, Visanté. When I return to the Floating Land, you are to formally serve me and the people as the leader of Kaza City.”

There was nothing left to be said. The group treaded off, resuming their primary journey to Sage Village with two new companions: the Yamist and Messenger of Inspiration.

CHAPTER 32

“How high a price would you pay

for a treasure you have always wished for?”

“This is so cool!” Shenjoon exclaimed breathlessly. “I’ve always wanted to go on a holiday here!”

“You got that right,” said Kyoden gleefully. “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Midas City, one of the busiest port city in the Kingdom!”

The seven young people strolled into the bustling city under the late afternoon sun, smiling and laughing away. Though Midas City was predominantly influenced by the Haikenese culture, it consisted myriad of cultures from all over the world due to its status as an international port. People from different walks of life could be seen everywhere.

Western and eastern culture appeared to have clashed in this city. Though there were short buildings made out of wood and bricks with roofs which arched at their ends, there were concrete buildings which could be seen in a distance. Passing by a few shops, Raviex noticed that the interior design and décor of the shop largely depended on the trade and nationality of the merchants.

“Hey, Raviex, let’s check out some places here. I’ve been here a couple of times and I know some interesting places to go!” invited Kyoden spontaneously.

But before the Prince could answer, Sonia dragged the archer along with her. “We need to find a place to rest and I need you to do the talking.”

He objected, “But I refuse to be your translator! Let me go!”

“I can’t speak Haikenese,” she said dully.

“But Yexi and Shenjoon know how to speak Flamese! Most people here speak Flamese too!” he whined.

“Shut up, Kaneshiro. They are off window-shopping already.”

“I also want to go window-shopping with Raviex. Raviex, save me!”

Raviex watched him powerlessly. Christine and Lorenne giggled at the two. Out of pity, Lorenne voluntarily accompanied her sister and Kyoden. A shout for Christine caught their attention, however.

“Hey, Christine! Come here!” It was Shenjoon who was waving at them from a shop.

Raviex and Christine went over, wondering what would be the matter. When they entered the shop, they were astounded by the collections of pole weapons it held.

“Wow…” breathed Christine. She found herself wishing she actually owned every single item there was in there. Raviex inspected the weapons out of curiosity.

“Come, look at this!” Shenjoon pointed at the back of the shop. Christine hurried behind with him. The two martial arts enthusiasts gazed wishfully at an impressive Flamese pole weapon which was encased by glass. From end to tip, it was taller than the two of them.

“What would I give to own it…,” Shenjoon sighed.

“Me too… This reclining moon blade is awesome even just by looking at it,” agreed the other.

“If I’m not mistaken, it was invented and belonged to the legendary General Gan Yi who was born in the Flame Empire two hundred years ago before the Kingdom of Katelion was founded, which means it’s actually older than Letaikno,” informed Raviex who stooped over the two.

“You know about the origin of the Green Dragon Crescent Blade too?” said Christine and Shenjoon in unison.

Raviex nodded. “Of course, Sir Damien spoke about it before. A brass shaft coated with a layer of gold, made with the height of six feet ten inches and a thick, deeply curved blade forged by a famous blacksmith of Gan Yi’s time. The entire shaft is engraved with the depiction of a Flamese dragon on it and has two jade stones on each side as the eyes of the dragon. Well, it all fits the exact description of the Green Dragon. But honestly, don’t you think that it is strange for such a weapon to be found in a shop?”

“Does it matter?” Shenjoon said distractedly, completely disregarding his words. The same was with Christine. “Maybe we’re just in luck. Check out the carvings of the dragon’s scales on the shaft… It’s amazing! Not only does it prevent slipping from the hands, it’s a beautiful art altogether,” he added randomly, “Green Dragon worths forty-nine kilograms, you know.”

“Gan Yi must have been a really strong man to wield it,” Christine wondered aloud.

“History does records him as a man of strength. During the War of the Tragic Bloodshed, Gan Yi defeated the ambitious Haikenese who tried to conquer the Flame Empire. With only five thousand men, he protected the empire from the enemy who had three times the number of his soldiers. Historians believed that Gan Yi alone killed two thousand men in the war using Green Dragon,” said Raviex. “I must still emphasise that it is strange that Green Dragon is here. It’s supposed to have vanished after a few years Gan Yi died.”

An elderly man chuckled at them. The three turned around to see a Flamese in his sixties. “It looks like you have been paying attention during your history classes, young man. It is, indeed, the legendary Green Dragon Crescent Blade of General Gan Yi. A lot of my customers come to me, hoping that I would give my consent into selling this treasure to them. But I turn every single one of them down. You three would not be any exception, too.”

“Oh, no, we don’t want to buy it,” half-lied Christine, embarrassed.

“I do,” muttered Shenjoon sadly.

“Pardon me, sir, but how did Green Dragon end up in your hands?” asked the Prince politely.

“I may not look like it but I am a descendant of Gan Yi,” answered the man, patting his round belly lightly. He had a Flamese accent as he spoke in Exodian. “Naturally, it is in my possession.”

Shenjoon gave him a quizzed look. “But Gan Yi’s a Flamese. Shouldn’t it be found in Flame City? What’s it doing across two seas?”

“As time changes, people change too. Although the Flamese and the Haikenese shared an unhappy past, the two nations have moved on, even more so after the union of the Eight Powers under the reign of King Leo Katelion. It is a long and boring family history which would not be of any interest to you young people,” he smiled.

But I thought…

Then, the plump man tapped on his forehead apologetically and laughed softly. “Oh, dear, look at me. My age is catching up with me. I’m afraid I’ve forgotten to introduce myself. I am the owner of this store, Gan-Zhang Wei.”

“Pleased to meet you, Mr. Gan-Zhang, my name’s Cedric Castillo,” said Raviex, shaking his hands but his mind was occupied, trying to recall something he was not sure of himself. Christine did the same but introduced herself using her real name. Shenjoon, however, bowed as it was in his Flamese culture to respect the elders.

“Xiăo dè jiào Shén-Jùn. Qĭng Gān-Zhāng qián bèi duō duō zhĭ jiào.” Shenjoon had introduced himself in his mother tongue, causing Mr. Gan-Zhang to beam in delight. Christine blinked blankly at the thirteen-year-old, not catching a word he said. The Prince could speak Flamese, but with limited vocabulary.

Instantly, Mr.Gan-Zhang and Shenjoon were engaged in a Flamese conversation. Christine tugged at the Prince’s sleeve and asked if he knew what they were talking about.

“Nothing much, I guess. Mr. Gan-Zhang is simply happy to discover a youth like Shenjoon to be quite knowledgeable in the traditional Flamese martial arts,” translated Raviex. “And he just told Mr. Gan-Zhang that you’re pretty good in the more contemporary martial arts too.”

Christine blushed as the man nodded in recognition in her direction. Mr. Gan-Zhang dug into the left pocket of his trousers and retrieved a silver key. “You are in luck, Shenjoon. It has been a while since the last time anyone moved me to see the Green Dragon danced again. I will let you keep the memories of wielding the Green Dragon if Miss Falcon agrees to duel you in a friendly match,” he said as he unlocked the glass casing.

Mr. Gan-Zhang and Raviex laughed as the two squealed in thrill at the proposal. The Prince understood how much the two fancied it. Neither had expressed verbally the wish the duel one another in a match but he could tell they wanted it from the time when they first met.

“Miss Falcon, I’ll take that as a positive answer. Are you two fine with it if we proceed with the match immediately?” asked Mr. Gan-Zhang thoughtfully.

“We’ve been travelling for five days straight. Are you sure you two would not like to postpone the match?” said Raviex, concerned.

“I’m okay with it. How about you, Christine?” the boy referred to her.

She grinned in confidence. “Ready when you are.”

“Ah, youth is definitely an asset,” joked the weapon trader. “Miss Falcon, you may choose any weapons found in here. Then, I will take you to a place where you can duel freely without obstacles in your way.”

While Christine went to select her pole weapon, Shenjoon placed his urn on the ground and reached both hands into the glass casing. He wrapped his fingers around the metal shaft. It was a fantastic moment for him. What fortune was this that he should be reserved the honour of holding the celebrated Green Dragon?

Shenjoon halted before he lifted it. “Umm… Mr. Gan-Zhang,” he hesitated, “why do you think I can carry such a heavy weapon?”

“Oh, but you have underestimated me. I am far more experienced in life. One look at your urn, Shenjoon, I know you have undergone trainings enough to use the Green Dragon,” said Mr. Gan-Zhang. Shenjoon was amazed. Most would have passed it as a normal urn but he had seen right through the trick of the urn.

Christine took her time in choosing her weapon. Normally, she would have stuck it out with her daggers but in this case, she was about to fight an opponent who was using a weapon which covers quite a large area.

I definitely can’t carry weapons as heavy as the Green Dragon. I need something I can come within range with the Green Dragon but not as heavy as it so I can use my agility and flexibility to my advantage too.

“This will be it,” muttered Christine in satisfaction, grasping her chosen combat weapon.

“Ah, a five feet seven inches Haikenese naginata. You are a practised fighter, I presume. Knowing how to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses is always important,” said the man as he stroke his long white beard. “This naginata’s shaft is made out of the Haikenese white oak, thus, giving it a lighter weight compared to most pole weapons.”

Besides the weight factor, she selected it because of its shaft which was oval in its cross section. It gave her the advantage of easy manoeuvre of the blade. Like the Green Dragon, its blade was curved. She had learnt back in the King Leo Katelion Royal Academy that the blade of the naginata was forged with degrees of hardness which vary on the spine and edge to retain a sharp edge but also be able to absorb the pressure of impact.

“Come,” beckoned Mr. Gan-Zhang. Raviex, Christine and Shenjoon followed him down to the basement of the shop unquestioningly.

It was something unbelievable and incomprehensible as the older teenagers watched Shenjoon carry Green Dragon. How was it possible for him to heave an object which was taller than himself? Although he appeared strained due to the effort, he was managing the task without a problem.

When Mr. Gan-Zhang flicked on the switch for the lightings, they were astonished to see such a spacious room in terms of length, width and height below.

“I didn’t know that the shop lots in Midas come with a huge basement,” said Shenjoon to Christine. She shrugged, showing that she had the same idea. Raviex thought it was rather impossible.

“Ready?” asked Christine, slightly nervous but absolutely geared up.

“Totally,” uttered Shenjoon smugly.

“You two better keep in mind this is only a friendly match, alright,” cautioned Raviex.

“Yes, father,” drawled the boy teasingly at his advice while Christine giggled.

Raviex added firmly, “I’ll interrupt the match if I think thing’s are getting out of hand. By the way, don’t you think we should get Yexi’s permission beforehand? Hang on… where is she? I thought she was with you, Shenjoon.”

But Shenjoon and Christine were already making their way to the centre of the room. “She left for the store next door to check out some stuff, I think.”

He honestly thought it would be better to inform Yexi first. Nonetheless, the other two seemed impatient to commence the match.

Mr. Gan-Zhang rested a hand on Raviex’s shoulder. “Observe carefully. I am sure this would be a duel to remember.”

“You are certain you can handle Green Dragon?” said Christine as she performed a forward slash, the tip of the blade aimed at Shenjoon, her hands comfortably handling the naginata. Dagger was her ideal weapons but it did not imply that she was incapable of using any others beside it. She was a martial arts master after all. Even so, she was bothered by the fact that Shenjoon was obviously having the drawbacks in this match due to the mass and length of Green Dragon.

“I suppose action speaks louder than words,” remarked Shenjoon. Determined to assure Christine to give her best, he set his feet apart and swung the long weapon to the back while his left palm was thrust out in Christine’s direction. “Tao-yang Energy Cloak!”

She saw a bright red light shimmered from Shenjoon, as though he was indeed wearing a cloak of red energy. She had a hunch that it was a skill which provided him with additional strength to utilise Green Dragon to the maximum because all of a sudden, he was swirling Green Dragon upwards and downwards before his body almost effortlessly.

“Shadow Steps,” he muttered. The moment he shifted, the duel officially began. He flitted towards her in a considerable speed despite his load. He took a leap and hacked at her from above. But the girl, who was no alien in a fight of speed, blocked his blade with hers through an upward slash. Though so, the mass of Green Dragon was dire on her. She gritted her teeth as she shoved him away before her knees buckled.

I must not waste a single second.

Without delay, Shenjoon advanced on her again. But Christine was already on the move. She directed vigorous stabs at his torso. He too did not lag behind and was quick to defend himself. He retreated backwards with precise footwork while deflecting her naginata by swinging Green Dragon horizontally left and right.

The stabbings ended abruptly. Christine made an anticlockwise curve sweep at his feet. As predicted by her, Shenjoon leapt into the air to escape it. But he had also foreseen her objective. He drove Green Dragon downwards when he was still in midair to meet Christine’s incoming upward slash.

“I must say, Shenjoon, you’re really good in this,” she complimented him after hopping a few feet away from him to recommence the match.

The boy landed on his feet. “You fight equally well, Christine.” He balanced himself on his right foot; the side of his body facing her. His right hand supported the upper part of the shaft whereas his left hand gripped the centre of it at his waist. “Here I come.”

There was the same blur of Shenjoon as he moved in her direction. She was stunned that he had closed in their distance so fast. He whirled Green Dragon in a full rotation on the right side. His right hand carried on and powered the shaft to rotate on the left side. He swung it to the back and brought it forward with a fierce cut. Christine was lucky to have come to her senses to avoid all his attacks. Even the spine of the blade must be avoided for it had teeth like the saw’s and a deadly crescent hook.

Just when she thought he would continue, he staggered and for a second, he lost his firm grip of Green Dragon.

So soon?

It was as though Green Dragon was starting to rebel against its user. Shenjoon felt it became heavier in his hands. In actual fact, it was his skill which was wearing off. He ignored it and proceeded with his moves.

“He’s slowing down,” murmured Raviex in a pensive mood.

“Yes, he is growing tired,” said Mr. Gan-Zhang. “The reclining moon blade is a weapon which demands much strength and flexibility from its wielder. If the wielder is not well trained, he will experience it getting heavier and heavier until the stage where he cannot move it.”

“Should we not stop the match then?” asked the Prince.

“We do not have to, Cedric. He knows his boundary. If I am not mistaken, he has four minutes to exploit.”

Four minutes? How does he know?

Raviex frowned. However, he looked back at the arena once he heard a thump on the ground. Shenjoon had fallen on a knee and became motionless while still clinging onto Green Dragon. Christine thought that it was a hoax to trick her into letting her guard down. A few seconds later, she and the two spectators knew the boy was encountering some difficulties.

They rushed for him to check on his condition. “Shenjoon, are you alright?” asked Christine anxiously who was the nearest to him, placing a hand on his shoulder.

“I’m sorry, Christine. I can’t go on with this match,” apologised Shenjoon. He sounded a lot exhausted than he should have been. Raviex guessed he was taking the toll for wielding such a massive weapon for his age and such an exertive skill.

“It’s okay, silly, it’s only a friendly match,” comforted Christine.

“This is my fault. I should not have made this request. You are too young to use Green Dragon,” said Mr. Gan-Zhang shamefully.

Shenjoon inhaled deeply and exhaled. “You are not to be blamed, sir. I have only reached my limit. My condition now is because of my own incompetence. After a short rest, I will be fine.”

Raviex glanced at his digital watch. “The others will be looking for us soon. We must go back up to the shop. Mr. Gan-Zhang, if you do not mind, I will help you return Green Dragon to its glass casing,” he offered. The shop owner nodded and thanked him. “Can you walk, Shenjoon?”

The boy passed Green Dragon to him and then, gradually, stood up. “My strength is coming back. I’m feeling well,” he assured him.

Lifting the forty-nine kilograms pole weapon for himself, Raviex would not have believed that Shenjoon could battle using it if he had not seen the scene personally. Just carrying it was arduous enough a task for him. Swirling it was out of the question.

Christine put her naginata back where she found it as instructed by Mr. Gan-Zhang. But she doubted anyone would want to buy it now that it was used. On the other hand, Mr. Gan-Zhang smiled satisfaction as he carefully locked the glass casing.

“You have made an old man very happy today, you three youngsters. It has been a while since I had any company,” he said gratefully.

“We thank you for your generosity and time as well, Mr. Gan-Zhang. You were right. It was truly a match to remember,” told Raviex as he shook hands with him. Christine grinned at Shenjoon who were also pleased with the Prince’s compliment.

After bidding Mr. Gan-Zhang their goodbyes (and a respectful bow from Shenjoon), they walked out of the shop. The first person they ran into was a panicking Yexi.

“Yexi!” Shenjoon called out.

She reacted to his voice and was washed over by a wave of relief when she saw her husband safe and sound. Yexi hastened her steps to him. The three were shocked to find her at the verge of tears.

“Yexi—”

“Where were you!” she practically yelled at him.

Raviex and Christine looked away guiltily. Shenjoon, however, was stupefied for Yexi was never one who would lose her calm terribly.

“But we were just—”

“Do you know how scared I was when I couldn’t find you, couldn’t feel your presence… couldn’t hear your heartbeat?” she chortled on angrily.

At this point, the Prince and the other were curious. From Yexi’s words, she might have just the same said that they had died or vanished from Midas City. They shared an uneasy gaze.

The Flamese did not understand why she had said so and assumed that she was being ridiculous and over protective. But he was tongue-tied as she embraced him. Her trembling shoulders told him that she was sincerely afraid.

“I… I’m sorry, Yexi. I thought you knew we were just next door in the weapon shop,” explained Shenjoon softly, a little red on the face that she was hugging him in public. Moreover, by-passers were ogling at them. “Please… don’t cry.”

Yexi dried her tears, regaining her self-control. “What are you talking about Shenjoon? What weapon shop? The shop you entered was a pottery shop. I thought you wanted to compare the pots there with you urn.”

“Are you kidding me, Yexi? You know I always boast about my urn being the best. Besides, you must have seen wrong. I entered a weapon shop. Raviex and Christine were there too!” he corrected her but gasped abruptly. “My urn! I left it in Mr. Gan-Zhang’s shop!”

He wheeled around to go collect his urn but found himself facing Raviex and Christine’s back. “Err… excuse me?”

They did not budge; rooted to the street they were standing on. Shenjoon frowned at their unsettling stillness. He skirted to Christine’s side. The couple’s faces expressed utter shock and were drained to the last drop of their colours. He looked ahead. What his brown eyes captured next sent his stomach churning terribly and the hair on the back of his neck standing on their ends.

The shop which they had visited only a few minutes ago was gone like a ghastly ghost.

CHAPTER 33

“My little princess…”

“Still sulking over his urn?” guessed Christine as Yexi entered the room she was sharing with the Fierell sisters. They were fortunate to have found a new hotel at the quieter parts of the city which offered promotional rates for their customers. Two twin double beds room and one double bed room remained affordable for them. Though the rooms were not of grandeur, they promised enough comfort for the night’s sleep.

“I have never seen him so depressed,” the Daiburno admitted miserably.

Kyoden flopped onto one of the double beds relaxingly and crossed his arms behind his head. “What happened to his urn? I thought it was his second shadow,” he said but was scolded by Sonia for messing up the bed. He stuck out his tongue at her and went to sit on a vacant chair since Christine and Raviex were sitting on the other bed.

“He lost it,” answered the Prince vaguely.

The black-haired one laughed. “You don’t just lose an urn like that. He must have left it somewhere when he was window-shopping earlier on.”

Christine grimaced. “He did.”

“Then, go and get it back. Is it so hard?” he returned, amused at what he treated as a menial problem.

“Okay,” she said sarcastically, “just tell me how I can go to a place which existed for one moment and gone at the next.”

Lorenne’s attention was seized. “What is this about? I want to know from the very beginning of it.” Sonia was of the same opinion. Raviex made no notion to do the storytelling. So, Christine took the role of narrating their mind-boggling adventure. When she ended it at the part where they discovered that the shop had disappeared into thin air, the audience was flabbergasted.

“Poor urn! It must feel so lonely right now, lost in a different dimension!” Kyoden mourned dramatically.

Sonia smacked him on the head with a perfect aimed pillow. “That’s not the point, idiot!” she scowled.

“Sonia’s right,” said Lorenne broodingly. “You are sure you never left the city?” She looked at Christine. The girl nodded in affirmation.

“Yet I could not hear Shenjoon’s heartbeat,” muttered Yexi. “But if you did not leave the city and I cannot pinpoint your location…” She left her sentence hanging.

“Simple, they entered a different realm— or dimension, as Kaneshiro puts it,” concluded Sonia calmly.

The Haikenese scratched his chin. “But I was only joking about that, Sonia.”

“Do you have any other better suggestion?” she snapped. “There’s no other way to explain it. There’re too many riddles in front of us.”

Christine gazed at the Prince who seemed to be in deep thoughts. “What are you thinking about, Your Highness?” she asked softly, slipping a hand into his.

He smiled at her tenderness. “Ryn, do you think it was all an illusion?”

She considered his words but shook her head. “I believe it was not an illusion. Shenjoon’s missing urn is proof, isn’t it? He left it in Mr. Gan-Zhang’s shop but now, it’s nowhere to be found.”

“If we agree that it was real, logically, everything we saw, heard and felt was not a bluff too,” Raviex revised her statement.

Kyoden gaped, “So, Green Dragon exists!”

“Let us suppose it exists,” said Lorenne, “but I must point out that Mr. Gan-Zhang might only be someone who does not want to be identified because there is no Gan-Zhang Wei. His existence is impossible because Gan Yi’s bloodline was wiped out after his enemies slaughtered the last of his grandsons.”

“I should have thought about it! If only I remembered it when he was introducing himself,” Raviex scolded himself for his lack of memory that time.

“Aww… you shouldn’t be too harsh on yourself, Raviex. We all know history is practically the most humdrum subject back in school,” Kyoden consoled him in a cheerful tone. Lorenne coughed, disapproving his lopsided concept but decided to pay no heed to it. He gave a silly laugh and then asked, “Can we determine if Mr Gan-Zhang is for us or against us?”

“We cannot justify that for the meantime. If Mr. Gan-Zhang meant harm, he would have just sealed them Raviex, Christine and Shenjoon away in that dimension when he had the chance. Similarly, if Mr. Gan-Zhang meant no harm, then what was his purpose here?” Sonia laid out her point of view.

“As far as history records, the last person who was known to hold Green Dragon was Gan Yi’s second son, Gan Shing---”

Kyoden unwittingly interrupted Lorenne. “Why didn’t his eldest son inherit it?”

The elder Fierell grunted. “Well, if you had paid attention in class, you would know that Gan Phen, died together with his father in the same war six years after the War of the Tragic Bloodshed.”

“How do they know so much?” he mumbled in Raviex’s direction.

He shrugged. “They studied?”

“Pardon me, as I was saying…,” continued Lorenne. Raviex made an apology. “There was a saying that Gan Shing gave Green Dragon to a friend and the unnamed friend became the broken thread to historians in their efforts of tracking it down. A second but simpler hypothesis was that it was stolen from him.”

“Therefore, how that so-called Mr. Gan-Zhang comes to own Green Dragon is a complete mystery. My bigger concern is his ability to cast dimension spell,” she finished.

“Why? Can’t you? We’ve seen what you’re capable of,” said Kyoden.

Yexi, who was quiet all these while, stood up from the sisters’ bed. “I do not doubt Lorenne but you have overestimated her, Kyoden,” she remarked in her melodic voice.

The girl nodded. “Dimension spell is purportedly a myth to spell-casters. The disappearance of White Ruins is the only evidence in magic history which supports the theory of dimension spell. You must know that dimension spell can only be cast by a being that is as powerful as a god.”

Everyone besides Yexi stared at her, wondering if it was a joke—and if it was not, then, which god had descended to Senadon?

For a heartbeat, she weighed the possibility that Mr. Gan-Zhang was him. However, she dismissed it a second later with a rueful sigh.

It can’t be him. He is a half-god now, no longer a god.

The silence was broken by Yexi’s light footsteps which were headed for the room’s door. “Are you going back to your room?” asked Christine.

She chuckled dryly. “No, Christine. Shenjoon is not in our room now. He sneaked out a minute ago.”

“Are you serious?” Kyoden blurted.

“Yes, I hope he doesn’t wander too far off. I will go and find him.”

“Why not let us all go? Perhaps we could cheer him up by accompanying him,” said Raviex.

Yexi inclined her head and said, “Thank you, Your Highness. Your thoughtfulness is much appreciated.”

“Please, ‘Raviex’ would be enough,” he insisted as the rest moved for the door as well.

Christine laughed at his modesty. “Come on, dear Prince, or you’ll get left behind.”

He groaned at her teasing as she pulled him up by the hand and trailed behind their friends.

Two children giggled and ran on the streets merrily; the girl chasing the boy in a game of tag. People did not care. They were ordinary children, playing an ordinary children’s game. Their laughter was merely a part of the noises of the lively city.

“Chronos, I am tired!” she yelled for him to stop but enjoying herself all the same. She bent over and gasped for breaths. The boy slowed down and turned back for his twin sister, grinning.

“It is not everyday that I hear you complain about being tired, little sister,” he teased.

“For crying out loud, I never agreed that I was younger than you, Chronos. I still believe I was created not a second later than you,” she said tersely, feeling crossed. “And it’s not my fault I tire so easily. This child form of a female human is simply weak.”

The one named Chronos laughed childishly. “Come now, Kairos, I honestly thought you look cute in that form.”

“Oh, stop joking already,” she chided but smiled despite herself. “I’ve had enough of running. I don’t see why children love this meaningless activity.”

In the midst of people on the street, Kairos transformed from a little girl into the figure of a grown woman. Her shoulder-length black hair grew longer, covering her blossomed chests and her bronze eyes matured to match her altered looks. It was as though she aged ahead of time. A plain pale blue dress clothed her body.

Chronos raised an eyebrow at his sister’s action but underwent his own transformation, changing into a grown man. He towered over her and the side of the same black hair he shared with her grew a little past his ears while the front of his hair were matted and ruffled.

“We should not do this too often, Kairos. Strong Lundae may be able to see our changes,” he said quietly in contrast of his former offhand character as they walked on naturally.

“On the contrary, Chronos, it seems that I did not lose my touch in years. None of them could distinguish my Genesis Energy from their own Sacred Energy; not the Prince; not the Yamist; not the Messenger,” she boasted and giggled at the varieties of lanterns sold by a stall. She paid the lady seller a few Kihs and took the butterfly-shaped lantern.

“If they could, then you have no rights to remain as the Guardian of Fate anymore. That’s really nothing to boast about.” He chuckled at her conceit but added, “I presume you have shown that little Messenger Gan Yi’s Green Dragon?”

“Rest assured that I have played my role well,” guaranteed Kairos. “Oh, by the way, the Messenger forgot to take his urn with him when he left! What am I to do with it?”

The man smirked. “It doesn’t matter. When one thing is lost, just replace it with a new one—a far better one! I will present to him a gift. He is a smart boy and he will know what to do with it.”

“Gan Yi was only an excuse from the very beginning, wasn’t it, Chronos?” the sister asked, even though she knew the answer.

He gazed at the starlit sky. “Gan Yi wanted to protect his empire. We gave him Green Dragon for a good purpose. The Light had no reason to oppose our deed and we were true to our words. We reclaimed Green Dragon from his son. But time showed me Letaikno’s birth while fate proved it to be predestined. Wouldn’t you like to know… whose creation is stronger?”

“Are you testing the Light?” Again, it was a question with a known answer. Her face was untouched with any emotions.

“Both the Light and the Darkness,” he rectified. “We are superior beings, ranking beyond the twenty gods, my sister. We were first; they second, remember that.”

Shenjoon stared with dejection at the pottery shop. He fervently tried to recall how he had discovered Mr. Gan-Zhang’s shop but it was of no help. All he did was walked right into the shop without any suspicion. So did Raviex and Christine! He sighed as he acknowledged the fact that he was desperate to get his urn back. He looked to his left, however, noticing a disturbance down the road.

A five-seat vehicle was blasting its hone in a boorish manner at the pedestrians. People scrambled to the two sides of the street although it was a non-vehicle road. The crystal-powered vehicle (CPV) hovered half a metre above the ground and cruised through the path opened for them. Another black vehicle which was more luxurious-looking and longer than the one in front of it followed with an air of arrogance.

“Look at those maggots, standing there, admiring us,” the woman in the second car sniggered. Her husband was about to join in on the comments when their driver suddenly stomped on the brake, almost throwing them off their seats.

Furious, the woman jabbed on the button to wind down the sound-proof window which separated them and the driver. Her companion stuck his fingers into his ears and prepared for what was to come. “What is the meaning of this, Furino!?” she bellowed at the driver at the top of her voice.

The young driver stammered, “I…I’m sorry, ma’am b…but Dashui st…stopped without warning.”

“Well, tell him to get moving!” she screamed.

“Y…yes, ma’am.” He contacted Dashui using his walkie-talkie and reiterated the report to his employers that a small girl had fallen down and was blocking the road, only to be yelled at again to remove her from their way at once.

Dashui poked his head out of the car’s window and glowered at her, heartless to her frightened face. He punched on the hone. It blared and deafened those who were nearby but she remained on the spot, too afraid to move.

“Get outta the way, you stupid girl!” he shouted, annoyed that he was scolded by his employers because of her. When she did not respond besides looking at him in fear, Dashui ordered, “Huwan, make her leave!”

One of the doors of the CPV flung open and a sturdy man hopped out of the vehicle. He appeared to be a professional guard for he wore a uniform of black coat and trousers. He loomed over the girl and sneered.

“What are you going to do to her? She’s only a child!” A woman from the crowd stood forward to defend the poor girl. Huwan turned to refer to his leader for orders.

“Just deal with the girl! If anyone interferes, make them regret they acted brave. And hurry up! You know the mistress is impatient!” Dashui blustered.

Huwan understood. He shoved the woman hard to the side. A few women caught her before she fell and glared at him. The people watched in horror as he stretched out a hand to grab the girl on the neck. She started to cry, wishing for her parents to appear to protect her.

As his fingers were about to clasp her fragile neck, a grey blur was seen. Dashui was confused when Huwan suddenly huddled over and crashed to the ground. His frustration was at the peak when he met a pair of sharp and intense brown eyes.

“Call yourself a man, picking on a girl?” snarled Shenjoon.

“Boys, make him pay for what he did!” spat Dashui. Three more men with the equal build of the first got out of the vehicle, heated that their colleague was taken down by the likes of a teenager.

People were amazed, witnessing Shenjoon’s victory over the men with mere kicks on their upper body. They marvelled and cheered for him. It was Dashui’s turn to tremble. His employers had also come out of their CPV to demand an explanation of delay from him.

“You bunch of useless backbones!” the woman shrieked at her defeated guards. She strode over to Shenjoon, her face distorted with rage. “Who are you to block my way home?!”

“Who are you to bully others, old hag?” Shenjoon retorted, crossing his arms. A pretty woman with a fantastically hideous heart… she is a shame to all oriental beauties.

“How dare you call me an ‘old hag’!? I am only twenty-nine!” She fired at him, her oriental eyes enflamed. “For your information, you rude and pathetic boy, my husband, Koon Thye, and I, Koon Dahn are the wealthiest people in this city.”

“Money doesn’t give you the right to bully people,” he said coolly. “The Kingdom’s laws protect lord and commoner alike. And if I am not mistaken, this road disallows vehicle to enter.”

“Fines are nothing to me. Money, you little maggot, changes everything. It changes what is right to wrong and wrong to right,” she stated, jabbing him with her red purse which matched her red sleeveless and v-cut collar qipao.

“Do you think your money can protect you if I have a go right now at you?” questioned Shenjoon. “I’m pretty much done with your henchmen.” He jerked his head at the men who were either crouching over in pain or retreating from him. He did not think he would tolerate her any longer.

Koon Thye yanked her on the arm urgently, not doubting that Shenjoon meant what he said and told her that they would be taking the CPV road home for the day. She insisted on using the route they were on but let in after he promised to purchase her the diamond necklace she wanted the other day.

“You are lucky, boy. Don’t you ever show up before me again!” threatened Koon Dahn. “Get up. You lousy worms. We’re leaving!” She exclaimed in disgust at the hired guards.

“My grandfather once told me, Mrs. Koon, wealth comes to those who share the warmth it can bring with others; wealth goes away from those who are self-centred.” he cautioned, when she was entering her CPV, “Riches of the world are mere illusion. The wealth my grandfather referred to is true wealth which is stored in Amaea—the blessing of the soul to live eternally in joy.”

She snorted. “Oh please, spare me your grandfather’s lecture. Those are words of denial spoken by the lower-class which is jealous of the upper-class.”

Shenjoon shrugged and shook his head in disgust. I should ask Grandpa if owning one of the world’s largest crystal mines is still considered a poor man. But because there are rich ones like Mrs. Koon, well-off individuals are almost always condemned of being snobbish. The spectators dispersed soon after the two CPVs left but not before they smiled and complimented the Flamese for his good deed, leaving him feeling quite pleased.

Nevertheless, his good mood was temporary. When the distraction was over, he sank into gloominess again. He turned back bleakly, his mind congested as he grieved for his urn. It was with me since… since forever, he sighed.

His thoughts were interrupted shortly by silent weeping. He suddenly remembered the cause of his encounter with the Koons. He wheeled around and knelt down beside the girl but found himself untutored on how to deal with a girl and her tears. Yexi rarely cried. In addition, she was a stranger. What should he say? He wrecked his brain, snapping his fingers when it hit him.

“Are you hurt?” he asked. Sweet Elinas, I feel so stupid.

She lowered her hands from her eyes to see her consoler. A peculiar feeling coursed through Shenjoon when he caught her attractive and familiar pair of evenly-spaced grey eyes. His lips broke into a sub-conscious smile, knowing who he was reminded of. However, she wore silk-made Flamese clothes and her facial features did not belong to a Daiburno’s.

The eleven-year-old girl quieted down as she peered into his eyes. He wondered why she was not answering him but out of the blue experienced pain on his arms and knees. He winced and checked his limbs for injuries but he found none and the pain disappeared.

Then, he understood (not that he knew how it was done) the pain was the girl’s. “You must have injured yourself. Argh… I don’t have any healing skills,” he muttered frantically. He snapped his fingers the second time. “But Lorenne has! Come, I’ll carry you on my back. I’ll take you to Lorenne. She’s a friend of mine who’s a great healer—”

“Why, thank you, Shenjoon.”

“Of course you are, Lorenne—” He paused abruptly, looking up to see his friends. He greeted them with an awkward smile. “I didn’t know you guys were around.”

Lorenne sat on her heels beside the girl, smiling reassuringly at her. She laid a hand on her head and muttered, “By the power bestowed in me by the Light—Heal.” A white light glowed. The girl cringed but realised she was cured. She lifted her long sleeves and saw that there was not even a scar on her arms nor her knees. A look of wonder was expressed on her face.

Shenjoon, however, noticed a strange, knowing smile on Yexi’s face.