Maria, god of misfortune

During these turbulent times what do you think is the most effective way to win a war? That is to end it with less bloodshed as possible.

 

This has become the most important piece to win a war that is full of deceit, betrayals and lies...

 

In the middle of the night inside a camp base, you can see the soldiers chattering and drinking to their hearts content. Loud noises and laughter can be heard on the whole place, It was as if they already won the war that is yet to happen next morning.

 

In the center placed their general's tent and you can see soldiers and even women coming in and out from it. Inside was General Han and other captains who are sitting and enjoying the feast that was prepared for them.

 

"General Han it is now a sure win for us! The other group has been reported to have less than 10,000 soldiers compared to our 40,000 strong men" said by one of his men who then offer to pour him his glass with the wine bottle he is holding.

 

"Hahaha...what do you expect from that small country of Hellas?"  The general's laughter can be heard on the whole place as he accept the offered wine and then raise his hand to make a toast for victory they can already see - "I guess we can relax tonight and enjoy the feast before the fight tomorrow! " He shouted and then called for another set of food and wine to be given for all of his men. 

 

By tomorrow morning these men from the Kingdom of Arias are set to invade and enter the war with the small country of Hellas with only few men and soldiers they are expected to see.

 

"Sir, please enjoy this little entertainment we have prepared for you", said by his men who then offered him for their enjoyment a dancing troupe that they brought in.

 

Two women began dancing in the tune of the music played by a man whose body and face are fully covered in a black cloak. Although everyone seems enjoying the show, the general wasn't paying attention to it and seems to find them a bore so he demanded that they gave him a more entertaining show. 

 

The man covered in black cloak, who is playing the instrument, stand up and removes the cloak. And to their surprise a beautiful woman dress in red appeared.

"General I apologized if you find our show lacking..." said by the woman in red dress who seem confident and not afraid with the general,  "I humbly ask your permission to present a sword dance if your good officer will let me get the sword that they confiscate, although we already explained that its only for show"

 

"Hmm...swords dance? Alright let her get the swords! " The idea seems to interest him and so he ordered his men to get her swords let her use it for her to be able to start her dance now.

 

"And before you begin may I ask for your name young lady?"

"It is Maria at your service..." The woman in red dress then bows down and unsheathe the swords.

"let me present to you this dance depicting the death of the god of war..."

 

She begins with a poem depicting the life and death of the god of war, Lu Bu and then followed by her dancing while swinging the swords. The way her body moves like a fluid as she bend her back with ease - and glide the swords blade -- It was beautiful and deadly.

 

The lustful eyes of every man inside follows her every movement and can't help but be awe in her beauty. Her skin is so white and pure that the falling snow will be envy and her face is so beautiful that nobody notice the precious jewels that she wears.

 

The steps of her dance are becoming faster that they can barely follow her sword movement and to their surprise as she throws one of the swords up - then at the same time scattered Rose petals, she run towards the general and stab his chest with the sword. 

 

The other two women start stabbing the other high ranking officer inside the pub as well and then they fled out of the scene immediately. Leaving behind a bloody hell scene, no can think one can accomplish inside a camp with Forty thousand men on it.

 

Because of the incident it cause disarray with the army since all the general and most of the higher rank official was killed by the assassin so the next day they decided to retreat from the battlefield.

 

News about what happened that night circulated among the other states and they all can't believe that the undefeated general that caused fear to other states in one night was killed by a woman.

 

However when they heard that on the scene scattered rose petals where seen, which is the same things found on the scene with other high ranking officials and general that were assassinated as well, all doubts about the news were cleared. They all know that If it's a work done by the assassin who goes by the name Maria, whose methods include leaving behind on the scene scattered Rose petals, killing a general inside an army of 40,000 men is near possible.

 

Maria's gender were not yet determined since witnesses gave different stories about her but one thing is for sure she possess strength and skill that rivals those of a general and a beauty a kin to a goddess.

 

The Kingdom of Hellas was also rejoicing because of the incident and was glad that this all ended without even the need of shedding one blood of their people. Inside the king of Hellas audience room, the king and queen called upon the people and all the general who are supposed to enter and sacrificed their lives for the kingdom to give their appreciation.

 

In the front of the king, the two of most prominent men in their kingdom was kneeling and presenting their self in front of him.

 

"In behalf of our countrymen I would like to congratulate you for winning this war for us my son Leone!" said by the queen who seems to be very proud and trying to show off her son to all.

 

"I know that leading only 10,000 men wherein some are not even from the military is already a great feat for you but you manage to do it. Forget about the rumors saying that the enemy retreated because of some woman killing the enemy general it's your gallant presence that made them retreat"

 

She then turn her head and look at General Shin who is kneeling down in front of the king, "Unlike some uncouth general who became scared just because the enemy has more men with them".

 

" I understand your anger but asking me to lead 10,000 civilians to their death is something I can't do unless I am out of my right mind..." The Crowd gasp on his suggestive answer, while giving off a strong and serious eyes that's looking straight at the queen.

 

"You!"  the queen then act as if she was about to faint and so her servants offered to give her support but she shrugged them off. 

 

" How dare you talk back at me, even if you are considered as the strongest general you crossed the line this time!" She pointed her finger to him, as if she was cursing him but the general won't even avert his eyes who was looking straight to her.

 

"After we let you become a general although you came from unknown family, you don't know shame do you?"

 

Although Hellas was a small city, it becomes popular because of its general who was at this era considered as the strongest. The neighboring countries surrounding Hellas would are reluctant to wage war against them if they learned that it was him who will lead their force.

 

However ever since the king became ill, internal conflict have been going around for quite some time thus a large country like Arias see this as an opportunity to conquer the city since they are interested on its red land that allows cultivation of any.

 

 General Shin refused the order to lead 10,000 men that were mostly civilians against 40,000 soldiers of Arias and insist that they should just offered them a bilateral agreement in terms of trading that Arias would like to impose since he doesn't see any problem with it.

 

The queen appealed to have him decapitated but her son Leone intervene and explained that killing the general will just please the enemies since he was still being considered as one of their biggest threat. As a punishment the king ordered the general to go back to his villa and stay there until further notice.

 

"You are really something, are you trying to get yourself killed?" General Leone whose hands are shaking with anger shouted at General Shin who was just idly sitting in his bed while enjoying a bottle of wine inside his room. 

 

The general move closer and snatch the bottle of wine he is drinking - then drink it for himself.

 

" Urg...If I did not intervene what do you think will happen to you?" He glares at him and then put down the bottle of wine in his table.

 

"Hahaha... I know that you will not be able to leave your friend alone", General Shin burst in laughter upon seeing the general  facial expression as he try to contain his anger." You really save me this time...Leone." He told him as he placed his hand on his shoulder and then snort a laugh again.

 

"But honestly I was surprise when I heard that you personally lead our hopeless army into that war Leone, It's good that the god of luck smiled upon you". General Shin taps his shoulder and then smirked at him.

 

"Don't play dumb with me!" General Leone shrugged off his hand away from his shoulder and glares at him.

 

"I know that you are the one who sent those assassins to kill the enemy general. Why won't you tell the king these in order to clear your name? Aren't you concerned that the people were calling you coward now?" He asked him and was waiting anxiously for his answer.

 

General Shin's facial expression changes into a more serious one and then look straight at him; " Who cares what will people say? What's important is we were able to prevent a meaningless bloodshed"

 

"But still the problem doesn't end here", General Shin sit down on his bed and clasp both of his hand together and then looks up to him - "Leone I know that even you don't want to negotiate with the country of Arias but still the king must realized that war is not the solution for everything!"

 

"Shin, I can't believe I am hearing these things from you... even if we are a small country why do you think we haven't been conquered yet?" General Leone sharply said. He can't believe that he will show such cowardice.

 

"It's because our country were born from heroes and holy knights! I was more disappointed that you need to ask some woman to help us!"

 

A week before the assassination General Shin went on the outskirts of Hellas to look for a person he believe will be able to help him greatly on the upcoming war.

 

" It's not usual for a young man and a little girl to be staying on this deserted place",  General Shin asked the young man who was sitting nonchalantly on the window of an abandoned house that seems to be old, wrenching and a diminishing lesser rumbles of stones coming to rest.

 

"I am sorry Sir, but we are orphans and doesn't have anywhere to go now" The young man answered him while looking straight into his eyes and gives him a fleeting smile.

 

A young man on his twenties and a little girl were camping inside a deserted house located at the heart of the Hellas forest. He wears a black cloak covering his body and has his long red hair tied up all the way to his back, however the general noticed that he was carrying a sword behind and even though he is smiling, his eyes reflects a killing intent.

 

" It's dangerous for children to stay in this area but I guess such worries were no longer necessary for a skilled assassin like you... Maria"

 

The young man step down from the window and stand in front of him. " So what would a known general like you wants to personally go his way just to see a poor mercenary like me... Great General Shin?"

 

The Hero and Assassin

In the middle of the day the sky suddenly grew dark and rain drops started to fall. The two of us without the care of getting wet by the rain just stood still and it was if, for me the rain drops seems to move in slow motion as I stared at this man who just came out of nowhere.

 

"I was expecting to see a maiden to take out for the night but who would have thought that it's a young man I'll see, such disappointment." This man suddenly spoke up, breaking the long silence and move closer to me. " But I guess with a face like yours, You'll do for tonight." He told me with that grin on his face.

 

"Let's cut the chase off...are you here to arrest me?!" His words irks me and I don't plan on playing word games with him. " I am sorry but I am not planning to surrender quietly". I pulled the sword that I was hiding behind and unsheat it in front of him.

 

"Then I'll be straightforward to you, I want you to kill the biggest enemy threatening our country right now." He looks straight into my eyes with those unwavering eyes of his and I felt the shiver crawls in my body. I don't think it was because I'm cold from getting wet because of this rain.

 

A man whose form reflects someone with full of confidence appeared right in front of me. There is no one in this city who doesn't know this man name General Shin, who was said as the strongest general on this era of warring states. And for him to see me personally I understand the importance of the job he wants me to do.

 

I lowered my sword and then return it from its shaft, "I am a poor mercenary so I can do any job as long as the pay is good, but why me? You are skilled so why not kill him yourself?" I asked him.

 

I've heard that he refuses to lead Hella's army who was about to face death in the upcoming battle between Arias and Hellas, the country where I originally came from. But it's unthinkable for someone like him, will just sit around and watch his men dies. However to take a risk and leave such important job to a mercenary like me, I really don't understand this man actions.

 

"I need someone who is fast and strong enough to kill a general hidden inside an army camp of 40,000 men."  Is what he said to me, who can't still understand why he needs someone to do that for him.

 

At this point the rain stops and the dark sky slowly cleared up, the sun light also start to slip in the clouds. This made me able to see more clearly the face of this man. His looks was different from what I imagined from the stories about him. I was surprise to see that his red brown eyes were actually like a dead fish eyes, It was blank and unwavering. He has a natural perm hair that is dyed in silver white and was in messy state. And to be honest he has an air of laziness. 

 

" Is this really the man they called the strongest of all generals?"  I muttered.

" Did you say something?"

"No...Nothing" I shook my head.

 

 He place his hand behind his head then ruffles his hair and let out a sigh "Actually right now, I am under a condition that can't move at ease and if my involvement was known this can worsen the situation so I need somebody to do this. " He then put his hand inside his pocket and showed me a gold coin.

 

"I've heard about you and the reputable works done by an assassin who goes under the name "Maria",  I trust that you can do the job effortless. I am willing to pay whatever amount you want so long as you can do the job for me." He smirked -- then threw the gold coin at me for me to catch.

 

"I am also a straightforward man; Five hundred gold coins will do for these simple task and risking my life." Is what I said to him, as I flip into the air the coin he threw to me.

 

A stunned look on his face then follows, "Are you sure it's just that much? you are about to enter an enemy's den with 40,000 men and might have to kill more than one person and risk your life." He asked me. It must be that he is under the impression that I'll ask for at least five thousand gold coins as the first payment.

 

"Don't worry about it I will consider our meeting as a good investment and I also have work ethics so for now, these much will do." I smiled at him and unable to hide the excitement that I'm feeling right now.

 

It is said that man's life has only one path and that is death. Now it's a man's job to choose how he live until his death. Every man wish to choose and live on the right path but in my case for as long I remember I've been living in this path of no return.

 

It was because of this era where nobody cares even if a dead body was found along the street, has taken away my option of choosing how will I leave my life. What do they mean by right path? Is there even a clear definition of what right path is?

 

Regardless of my ramblings about life I still choose to live, thanks for my mother who on her last remaining strength told me to live on in order for me to be able to see someday a reason that will make me fight and die for, just like what she has found.

 

I can still vividly remember the scene of my mother dying in my arms, the people and the town I was born, engulf with fire. The scream and cries of the people I know, I can still hear it. And worst the smell of the blood won't seem to go away. I was only nine years old at that time and almost fifteen years has passed but it leave a deep scar that can never be remove and the memories are still fresh for me.

 

 "Urg...Mother this was all my fault, If I just listen to you and run away this will not happen!" My sobbing can be heard all over the place as I held thight my dying mother's hand.

 

In a small weak voice, my mother  opened her mouth and tell me her last will, "My son please forgive me, regrettably but I have to leave you all alone in this world, I know this is selfish of me to ask but please carry on and continue to live today in order for you to see the goodness in being born to this world which is just temporarily shrouded in darkness..."

 

" No!...please don't die... you are the only one left to love me" I cried and scream but my mother won't move and open her eyes for me. 

 

We were poor and my father died after going into a war, even before I was born. My mother works hard for both of us and were fine living like this. She would always say that she hope to see me grow up someday and never take the same road that she had. My mother in order for us to survive prostitutes herself -- at that time even as a child I help her by finding her a customer.

 

It might seem for others that my mother was unclean, but never did once I thought of that. Who are they to say what is right and what is wrong? At these kind of life we have I still felt happy by just seeing her try her best to smile in front of everyone , in front of me. She never did once complaint that she was tired in front of me.

 

My mother was killed by a soldier from Hellas when she tried to protect me. Out of nowhere they just killed everyone in our village and announced that it was done by an enemy country. I was one of the few survivors of that massacre and vowed to seek revenge to those who caused death to my only left family, my kind mother.

 

While fleeing the city a dying woman hand over a child and ask me to take care it. She insist that I protect the child with all of my life and at her last breath she whisper an important secret that I should never tell a soul.

 

I found myself in a middle of nowhere who cannot even think of a way to survive the day and live from now on, until I met a man who take us with him. My life after that was what you can say literally living in a place much worst than hell. 

 

At an early age of seven I was able to experience the harshness of this era which even made me into someone with a kind of thinking that the only way for me to survive was through killing.

 

"Are you sure in taking this job?"  I felt something cold that suddenly grab my hand, breaking from my thoughts. It was Elle, the baby that was left for me to take care.

 

"Elle I have to take this opportunity in order to be close to the general and I might be able to find clues and information regarding the massacre 15 years ago." I told her, but her face still show a warry look.

 

"I understand that but the job this time is very risky I..."

 

"Alright  hand me now the costumes and makeup we have a job to do and you yourself said that we haven't made good money for a while so what are you waiting for? Let's go! " I cut her off from saying more and then pick -up my swords." Call the others now, we still have a party we need to attend".

 

A Beautiful Lie And Painful Truth

Why do people love life but hate you?

 

That's because life is a beautiful lie and I'm a painful truth...

 

"I bet this is how Death will respond if asked why we hate him so much. I've already presented painful truth to several people for the sake of others, for them to continue living in this beautiful lie called Life." Maria stares up on the moon as he thought of these things.

 

 It's been a long night for him and for some reason he felt more tired than ever tonight.

 

"No matter how many times I washed these hands the smell of the blood won't come off "He clucked his tongue as he  tries to wash with the fountain's water his hands and face - drenched with blood.

 

 "I should be used to these things but this still makes me sick". He left out an audible sigh.

 

Maria then heard footsteps that's coming from behind and she glances at the silhouette of the man who came.  

 

"I can't believe that a wanted man like you will just nonchalantly go outside and stay in a place like this..." a familiar deep voice spoke and stepped into the shine of the silver moonlight.

 

Maria drew in a sharp breaths of air upon seeing the man who came to him sneakily,"Look who is talking...aren't you supposed to be under house arrest...General Shin"

 

"You did a great job, you really live up to your name Maria but I guess nobody would be able to tell that behind that face hides a cold blooded man." The general move closer to him while grinning.

 

"Yet I can't still believe it, are you really a man?" Said by the general in a mocking voice who then stared at Maria's look just after she went and assassinated the enemies general.

He was wearing a tattered red dress and a red veil that covers his head. The moonlight illuminates more the beauty of Maria's face and his red hair hiding behind the veil drenched in blood.

 

"Although that part is lacking..." General Shin shift his gaze on his chest and narrow his eyes to that place to have a closer look, "Altogether what I'm seeing is a woman, I bet with those thin arms of yours, dressing up and seducing your victim is necessary to get the job done" he leered at him.

 

Maria's eye brows drew down as his face started to frown , " Do you really want to know by seeing the real thing yourself !" His voice come out harsh and sharp as he drew his dagger then unsheathed it and points it to the general.

 

The general left out a soft laugh and then lift up both of his hands as if he was taunting him to come at him anytime he wish. Maria quickly move forward and the general found the end of the blade coming to rest against his throat for a bare second before he gets out of its range.

 

General Shin smirked " Not bad, Maria" he then rammed his knuckles on Maria's hand and the dagger dropped to the ground. 

 

Now both of them without weapons, began sparring and test the strength of each other until Maria found his self in the ground. While fighting the two seems equal in strength when suddenly the general eyes change into someone with a cold killing intent. Maria felt a sudden chill when he saw these and stopped his movement for a while, the general see this as an opportunity and pinned him down on the ground.

 

"Argh... Let me go you brute!" He shouted while gritting his teeth and struggling to escape from his hands that's holding him down.

 

 "Hahaha...I understand now how were you able to kill that general and the other's despite looking so weak, you are really strong and skilled. If I didn't get serious I might be killed by you now" The general snorted, then let go of him and stand.

 

"If not for these dress I would have been able to defeat you!" he frowned

 

"I know... you don't have to be so mad; I just want to test your skill." The general then offer his hand for him to grab and help him stand.

 

 " So what's your real name?" he asked him while leaning forward to him; " I don't suppose you want me to always call you Maria each time we met..." he then crossed his arms, waiting for his reply.

 

Maria was caught off guard with his question, "Its Kai... you can call me Kai, General Shin." he answered reluctantly.

 

"So it's Kai, Let's work together from now on Kai." He then offer his hand to Kai - waiting for him to reach and then smiled at him.

 

Just like what his name suggest this man is a beautiful lie that will sure bring the painful truth to all men. These were his thoughts of him.

Our Life Encounter & Choices

Elle's POV

 

"Hey, Elle wake-up! we have been invited by the general to start living in his place from now on" Said by Kai whom I regard as a brother, father and sometimes a mother.

 

I blink my eyes and then let out a big yawn "Huh?..live?...Where did you say we are going to live from now on?"Asked by me who was so confused on what is happening. 

 

"General Shin's Manor" Kai answered

 

"You..." I gasp while covering my hand with my mouth, "don't tell me that you are no longer satisfied of being an assassin and now...you are planning to be a man whore of some general...you...I know that we are poor and I'm fine with your current work but this...this is just something I can't accept..and.." he interrupted me by knocking my head down. 

 

"Ouch! What is that for!"  I screamed to him then placed my hand in my head to check if there's a bump because of what he did. 

 

"What the hell are you talking about?" Kai shouted irritably. He then pulled my hand for me to get out of my bed. 

 

"Stop saying nonsense things, we need to be there before the sun came down, hurry!" This man who always treated me like a kid, even though I am already 15 years old. And to think that I am a fine young maiden to boot!

 

Kai and I have been living together for as long as I remember. He said that I was given to him by my mother who asked to take care of me. Kai was only five years old at that time when our mother and neighborhood were murdered 15 years ago. Ever since then we have lived a frugal life in this era were in at the early age I realized that it's no use struggling to our fate. 

 

But Kai was different. Although he was suffering I can see both kindness and hope still being reflected behind his cold eyes. That's what saves me as well. He would always say that he believes just like what her mother said to him, that by just living we will someday see the beauty of this world and the reason why we were born.

 

Honestly, I don't regret being born in this world that's full of chaos -that's because it's the chaos that made it possible for our fates to intertwine. Our relationship is even thicker than any family bound by blood. Although in order to survive, Kai at his early age had to kill in order for us to survive.

 

I was only five years old and Kai was ten, when we met this man named Kaede who we thought will save us from our misery. Unknown to me he made Kai steal from houses and people, threatening him that he will kill us if we disobey or escape from him. And it was not just us; there are other children who work for him which were also forced to do things for him.

 

 But when he attempted to sold me out to a foreigner to be a prostitute, Kai, in order to save me killed him using his own hands. I remember Kai's bloody hand trembling while holding a dagger smeared by that man's blood.

 

 "Kai, I'm sorry because of me...you" I was sobbing and my face was dripping wet from my tears as I watch Kai's blank expression after he killed a man for the first time.

 

"Don't cry...it's not your fault! Elle from now on you should stop crying from things like this...we still have a long thorny path to take." He then pulled me closer to him and then hugged me in order to make me calm down.

 

"Save those tears once we reached the end!" Kai said firmly to me.

 

We escaped together with the other children who are even younger than me as well and tried our best to do anything in order to live. From lying, stealing and even being hired to kill, we did all this to survive. 

 

But at least this time we are working for ourselves not for anyone, and we are satisfied with that. At this chaotic world, those who would dare to say that the path he chooses is wrong, were just mere hypocrites who never experience the real taste of this beautiful lie called life.

 

Echoes of War

General Shin who was reputable as the strongest swordsman won't join the battle but instead chose to stay neutral with the issue. The neighboring kingdoms, not only Arias has seen this as an opportunity to subdue the small country of Hellas which they all have considered as one of the most threatening country due to its solid military foundation.

 

On the Far North side of Hellas located the kingdom of Cyrene who is planning to enter the battle as well. The kingdom of Cyrene located at the far North side of Hellas is a deserted place and like Hellas men of Cyrene were also used in war and battles although the reason is because of several internal conflicts occurring within their kingdom. They were often called as barbaric in nature but were very sensitive and loyal when it comes to their king and religion above all other nation.

 

They have sent their envoy to Arias in order negotiate with them, which surprise the whole kingdom because Arias and Cyrene have been on each other's neck for a long time now. What surprise them more is that the envoy that they sent was General Hawk, who's known as a strong swordsman in par with General Shin. 

 

He was a former manslayer that was able to climb his way all the way to the top because of his intellectual and guerilla military skills. Both of them were not born from the noble that's why they are always being compared with each other. Although this man was known for being ruthless and overbearing as well. His appearance reflects someone who doesn't care a thing about royalties or being a high ranking official. He doesn't have a shield or an armor protecting his body, just a pair of swords hanging on his back and a white cloak.

 

"The Kingdom Of Cyrene represents by General Hawk is now here to..." announced by the messenger but was interrupted by General Hawk; "I was sent here by the king to help your crying baby soldiers beat a small country like Hellas" He smirked and the crowd grasp because of his insolent comment. 

 

" You imbecile!" shouted by the king of Ares who was then pacified by General Rene. 

 

"Hahaha...lucky for us! and father please don't take this man's words seriously, he is just shy and overwhelmed with the responsibility given to him"  General Rene teased and then gave General Hawk a smile - which made General Hawk pissed with him.

 

Arias on the other hand have General Rene who was also the only son and crown prince of Arias, he was regarded as a meek and feminine yet his intellectual and negotiation skill are known to be outstanding.

 

He was often describe as a man that was hard to comprehend his way of thinking. This is the first time that he will be leading a battle himself that's why everybody was expecting to see how he fights. The news about Arias and Cyres collaboration and it's plan to subdue the kingdom of hellas spreads immediately to other neighboring countries, including Hellas as well. 

 

And this time an army of 100,000 men were ready to enter the battle, things will be different and not easy for the kingdom of Hellas compared before, that's what the kingdom of Arias announce to all.

 

"How can this be happening!" A loud bang noise can be heard as General Leone smash his hand against his table. His men just lowered their heads and avoid making eye contact with him

 

He then let out a sharp sigh "I thought that they were after each other's throat but why did the king of Cyrene decided to join its forces with Arias?" he grit his teeth in anger and the glares at his men who announce the bad news to them.

 

 "Why were you not able to foresee this things immediately, what's the use of those spies we have sent to those two kingdoms!" shouted by General Leone who can't believe the news regarding the plan of Arias and Cyres entering war with them. 

 

"Sir, we don't have anything to repute your anger but there's nothing we can do now I guess we really need him this time" said by his page who then gave him a desperate look.

 

Hellas upon hearing the news can't believe what was happening. Without anyone saying they all knew that the upcoming war will surely bring deaths to many people of Hellas and there's only one man they all agree will be able to stop this from happening.

 

 It was the same  back then -- General Shin was able to made the enemy surrenders and retreat even if their numbers were hundred times more of them or stronger than them with him on the lead. He won't be named as the strongest general for just no reason. The time has come for him to enter the battle again and prevent several deaths of his men. And this time tricks like sending an assassin is not enough to stop the coming war.

 

Naked Blade

General Hawk POV

 

"General Hawk, are you sure of participating this war between Arias and Hellas?" asked by this page of mine who has been one of my subordinates when I'm still a leader of our bandit group.

 

I let out a big sigh and raised up one of my eye brow to him "Do you think I'll personally asked the king to let me help our enemy subdue a small but strong nation if I'm not serious Noel? I replied irritably. 

 

"But Boss, I mean...Sir " He cleared his throat and move closer to me, then he whispered in a very low voice, "You are just doing this because of that assassin that goes by the name of Maria, right?" Noel stubbornly asked and won't let me enter my room without answering him first.

 

I remained silent --since I find it unnecessary answering such stupid question, "You've been looking for that person ever since the accident that happened 5 years ago, and when you heard about her appearance on the assassination of the general who was leading the campaign for Arias against Hellas you thought that it's your chance to face that assassin personally right? He pressed on.

 

  "What is it now if that's real case?" I asked sharply.

 

Noel seemed taken a back  "Sir, no matter how I see it it's as if you have fallen for that woman" 

 

"Tsk! Are you mocking me?" I frowned at him, "Do I look like someone who will play like a lovesick man for some woman? Is what I said, while grabbing his neck and then let it go as I enter my room.

 

Honestly speaking I don't understand it as well, what is it I want to happen once I saw her again. Is it because of my thirst to fight a strong man be it a woman or man? No - I know it's more than that--It all started when I first saw her again 5 years ago in one of Cyrene's town.

 

 At that time I just started to join the military and was just an ordinary soldier assigned on that town where I saw you again after ten years from the first time I saw you, when you was just a child around 9-10 years old. I immediately recognized you even though you have grown into a person that's wholly different from the time when I first saw you.

 

We were ordered to assist in arresting an assassin that escaped not too long ago after killing a high ranking officer in that town. By the time we arrive in the area I saw one man standing alone surrounded by 15 or more men that are being taken down one by one by that person. 

 

She was wearing a tattered white robe which is unusual for an assassin - who would prefer to wear black clothing to hide himself. Both of her dress and long red hair were drenched in blood, but she doesn't even flinch as her enemies blood splats on her face each time her blade cuts one. It was because of this that people starts calling her as the bloody "Maria".

 

 I noticed that aside from her there are others that she let to escape first, those guys were all wearing black clothing that helps them from escaping immediately. I guess she intended to wear something that will let us focused on her thus letting the others escaped smoothly.

 

 But what made me recognized her as the kid I saw 10 years ago was her eyes that might seems to reflect a cold and murder intent, but there's this hint of strong will to live. It was the same eyes of that kid which I though was a young man if not for today, whom I saw back when I was still a boss of a group of bandits and mercenaries hired for killing.

 

 A kid aged 9-10 years old together with other children who are younger than her, ages 4-8 years old was digging a grave for a man whom I recognized. It was Kaede, one the people we are working in trading human slaves, specially children that we sold to foreign lands.

 

Judging from the kid's appearance whose hands and clothes were drenched in blood while the others are not - it seems to me that he was killed by this kid who was digging his grave for him. For a child who killed for her first time, her eyes shows no fear or regret of what she has done. But what really surprised me was her answer to me, when I asked her why she's digging as well a grave for that man who wronged them; aside from the other children that she already buried.

 

"All men when died were all the same no matter who, it's a way to pay respect for a man who struggle as well for his life--the same life we all hold on to...mister"  Is what the kid said while looking at me unwavering. And her eyes although it looks dead and blank -- there's a hint of strong will to live. I was stunned and it made me silent for a while. 

 

I tried to asked her to come with me but she refused saying that from now on they will strive to live for their own and not for the others. It was a year or two after that incident that I was personally asked by the king's minister to surrender and join the army, in exchange they will pardon all of our misdeed and will even gave me an opportunity to be a high ranking official if I can prove my worth to them. 

 

I accepted the offer and thus begun struggling and proving myself all the way to the top. But my thirst is not yet satisfied, there's still this unexplained thirst that won't quenched no matter how many people I killed or high I climb.

 

 And then I heard you showing up again and even killed a great general hiding behind an army of 40,000 men, I know that this thirst will only be quenched once I see you again.

 

Birth of a Great General

Bloody White Beast, this is how his enemies would often called this man because of his white hair that's always dyed in red of his enemies blood. No one in this country doesn't know the name Shin-- who has been proclaimed as the strongest swordsman of today.

But honestly looking at him right now, I don't see anything but a laid back and uncouth man without an ounce of awareness for himself being a great general that must always look dignified and respectable.

 

"Hey, so how things are going on with you and that little princess you brought with you?"  asked by him with his face so close to mine and his arm wrapped around me.

 

I grit my teeth controlling my urge to punched him "Please stop acting so familiar with me"

 

I shrugged off his hands and move away his face, then give him a menacing look --but he on the other hand just laugh on my reaction. It's been three days since he invited us to live here in his manor but he hasn't told me on what would he like me to do or assign any task to me.

 

"Hey, general mind if you introduced us to this two beautiful ladies with you?" asked by one of his soldiers that's under him, "Specially this beautiful red haired woman" he chuckled and then kissed my hand.

 

"Don't touch Kai!" Elle shouted then move his hand away from mine.

 

 "Right don't be so quick with her" General Shin snorted and was obviously holding his self from laughing. 

 

  Elle glares at them furiously "Are you blind? Kai is not a wo..." General Shin covers her mouth "You don't know how strong this woman is" He smirked as he stop Elle when she was about to say that I'm a man.

 

"Its a secret but I'm trying to make her my woman so leave her alone" He jokingly told him in a low voice. 

 

His men then place his hand on his head and then ruffles his hair " Is that so? Tsk! Such a shame... Good luck then to you my captain" he grins then finally leave us alone.

 

The general who's been holding since earlier, finally let out and burst with laughter "You...what are you thinking? Do you think this is funny?!" I snapped while keeping myself from punching this man who wouldn't stop laughing.

 

"Ah...I'm sorry...I can't help myself from laughing but there's no need for you to tell the truth this is better for entertainment...I mean to avoid suspicion, said by him. But still given his reaction I believe he just find all of this entertaining.

 

The people of his manor has thrown him a welcome party that's been going now for three days, all of them were happy to see their master back and not worried about the fact that he was punished by the king to be house arrested.

 

I've learned so many things about him based on their stories which are unknown to outsiders like me, like him being a womanizer but never been into a relationship with someone or him being weak when it comes to alcohol but loves drinking, I don't know if these things are even of importance but these just made me think of him as someone really hard to read and understand.

 

It was at this point that I learned as well stories of his past before he became a general.

 

I heard that he was an orphaned who was brought here by Jin when he was still young, said by one of the villagers who has been living in this town for decades already. I noticed the sadness on their face when they mentioned this man named Jin, which made me curious and decided to hear more of the story about him and the young General Shin.

 

They told me that this man named Jin was their town former chief officer who's also one of the generals being deployed of the front rear guard. One day he just brought in a young boy with white hair - which is uncommon and very striking that's why at first the people specially the children, were reluctant to accept him first. They are thinking that he might be from some enemy country.

 

  "The first time Jin brought him, he was covered with wounds and his clothes were tattered as well" said by the villager.

 

According to them unlike now the young general Shin at that time was aloof and would only be with Jin all the time. But as days past the young general Shin becomes more childlike and even becomes closer with the other children on the village. This man Jin was the one who taught him how to use a sword and some martial art skills as well.

 

When he became older he brought him together with him to the frontier and even let him join the battle in order to hone his swordsmanship and fighting skill.

 

"Hahaha...I remember Shin often talk trash with Jin saying that he was strict and crazy enough to let a 16 year old boy join a war" the villager laughs as he remember how was the general before, which made everyone laugh as well.

 

"So where is this Jin that you are all talking about?" asked by Elle who become curious to see the man who raised General Shin. The atmosphere change and there was an awkward silence that comes next,  when she asked them if we can meet the same man that they are talking about.

 

"It's been 15 years now since he was killed and died from protecting a town that was burned down by an unknown Hellas enemy country" the villager explained.

 

They said that fifteen years ago the general has been summoned to go into one of the Hellas village which were said to be attacked by an enemy country. He was not informed about the specifics of the order nor the name of the enemy country that was said about to attack the village. That was the last time they saw him and just heard that he was killed in action. 

 

Not even his body was recovered-- they said that the enemy burned down the village and his corpse was never been retrieved.

 

Out of curiosity I have asked them as well how was General Shin when he learned about the tragic news of his foster father dying on the field. They said that he didn't even shed a single tear upon hearing it - and they were even more surprise that he remained cheerful in front of them.

 

 It was not that long after that incident when General Shin was accepted to the army and partake on his first rally.At the time Della, an enemy country has wage war against Hellas bringing about 50,000 of its men ready to take down the main city of Hellas. 

 

Hellas army in the city at that time was less than 5,000 lead by an inexperienced general, unlucky for them that almost all of Hellas army were deployed outside the city and engage with another war. The ones left were just reserved remained to protect the city, they were not aware of the sudden attack coming from another enemy.

 

"It was a dreadful sight to see" The villager shuddered as he remember the scene that happened at tat time. He also said that he was one of the former soldier who participate on that battle to protect the main city.

 

Surrounded by the enemy the only thing that was keeping them alive was the city tall and strong wall surrounding the city and the men's will to survive. They were able to last three days without sleeping protecting the gate and the city wall's protecting the people inside. It was by then the new recruited soldier that goes by name Shin, suggested to the general who was leading them at that time that it's not enough that they'll just be on a defense stance.

 

"Lend me five hundred of your men to infiltrate the enemy camp tonight and kill the enemy's general" He firmly said to him with his eyes looking straight and unwavering. The general reluctantly agreed to his suggestion, thinking that they will have a great chance to win this war if they can take the enemy's main head.

 

Then the night comes, Shin first sneak inside with some few men and starts a fire inside the main camp. They also burned the enemy's food ration and weapons storage, causing a commotion to the enemy's soldier who were at that time had they guard lowered down; thinking that it's only a matter of time till Hellas city walls collapse.

 

A man with silver white hair brazes through the wind while cutting all men who stands on his way, making his path cleared all the way to the enemy's general head. Not only the general, but all men inside all thought they are seeing a bloody white beast who swiftly kills all men and leaves behind a pile of corpses.

 

It was an impossible feat but with only 500 men with him they were able to cause an immeasurable damage to the enemy's camp and even killed their general. The next morning which also marks the fifth day since the battle begun, although exhausted the remaining soldiers of Hellas has gain unexplained strength and will to fight. While on the other hand the enemy who has lost their pillar and clouded with insecurities, was losing the will to fight cause they are thinking that they can't endure a long battle without a head and their foods and arms supply cut off.

 

"It was a miracle brought by Shin that we were able to win that war," said by the villager who was about to cry just from remembering that incident 15 years ago.

 

That incident marks the birth of a great general who have won several war and protected a small country of Hellas, who has been always threatened by its neighboring country. His accomplishment and name was known by all men of this era, and they all agree that right now he was one the strongest general of all times. 

 

 

Tranquil Rain

Once there was a man who promised to be the strongest in order not to lose anyone -and to live. For as long as he remembers he was living all alone in the middle of a battlefield and this chaotic world where in the first thing he learned was to hold a sword and protect his life.

 

 He has a body of child with his white hair drench with his own blood-- this kid whose eyes no longer reflects a desire to be saved but still his will to live was so strong that amidst those pile of corpse he was still standing--although all alone while holding a sword that he can barely hold.

 

One fateful day a young general that goes by the name of Jin, went to that young beast nest and was awed by the scene he witnessed. He saw the young white beast eating the corpse left over food and a sword drenched with that dead man's blood. For an instant he thought he saw a young beast eating the dead man's corpse. He was all alone eating in the middle of the field piled with corpses, were in it seems a battle has just broken down and ended not too long ago.

 

 He approached the kid to ask what happened but he, like a wild beast, unsheathed the sword he can barely hold and points its blade to him.

 

"I just want to ask if that thing you're eating is good" Jin said to him while smiling and then reach out his hand to move away the blade that was pointed at him. The Kid move back and grip his sword tighter, while giving him a menacing look.

 

 Jin move closer to him and kneel down to met his eyes "I came from from a long journey and haven't eaten yet, mind if I ask for some of that?" He then points his finger to the left over rice ball the kid was eating before.

 

The kid just stared at him blankly "Who are you?" asked by him, then lowered the sword he's holding.

 

"My name is Jin, I came here to hunt down parasites plaguing the land...what about you? What's your name kid?"  he asked him.

 

"I don't have a name..." he answered him hesitantly "But they called me monster maybe that's my name," he muutered, then suddenly the rain just starts pouring.

 

There was a long silence after that -- both of them just stared at each other's eyes and stand still on the tranquil rain. The silence just broken down when Jin move closer and then kneel down in front of him. he then lay his hand to feel the rain then look at the kid's eyes again.

 

"Would you like to come with me and live in a place where in you'll never be again drenched on this cold rain and blood alone...Shin?"  he asked him and then gave him a gentle smile.

 

"Shin?"  the kid look confused by what he meant by calling him in this name.

 

"Yes...that will be your name...Shin... which means New and also Heart "  he then pats his head and hold his hand. "From now on you will live like a man with a new heart!" he carried the boy and laugh while holding him.

 

The man brought him back with him and decided to take him as his child. He has no wife and was not even on his thirties so his men upon hearing can't help to think that it's a waste for him. But he was determined in taking care of the child he found and promised him that he will never let him felt all alone again.

 

"Come inside you'll get yourself wet..." Jin called out to the young Shin who was staring blankly at the dark sky. "Why do you always love watching the rain, Shin?" asked by Jin who was concerned on him getting drenched in rain while sitting on the veranda.

 

"I like watching the changes on the scenery colors that always happen when it's raining...Jin"  answered by him and then he tilt his head above to watch the rain pouring from the sky.

 

"Jin what is a monster?" The kid suddenly turned his head to him and ask this. He then explained that he heard the other children and villager calling him again by that name.

 

Jin who was taken a back with his question then place his hand on the boy's head and rustle his hair "A monster was something who doesn't have feel anything aside from greed and doesn't value life"

 

 The Kid just innocently stare at him "Didn't I say that from now you should stop worrying about this things? You just have to make an effort for them to know you better - Shin" He chuckles.

 

The kid little by little begun to open up and act according to his age. He was saved by the kindness Jin has showed him. As he grew older he begins to realize the importance of being alive and protecting a loved one. All of this was shown by Jin and the people around him that he treasured.

 

"I was saved by a man whom I never met as well when I'm on the verge of dying, I can't explain the feeling I have felt at that time and promised to myself that I'll make sure to do the same thing and save many lives as possible." answered by Jin in when the grown up Shin asked him on why did he decided to become a general.

 

Jin then have asked Shin to promise him that in case he died he wish to pass on these will to him and make sure to live from now on by not just protecting himself but live to protect his reason for living.

 

It was then a day after this that the news of Jin's death arrived on the the village. He felt unexplained sorrow and grief that he never felt before-- to the point that he cannot even shed a single tear to show the unbearable sadness he is in now. 

 

The only thing that keeps him from breaking down was the promise he made with him on that day which made him decides to get stronger and never again lose anyone -to live and most of all never again feel that way.

 

Life's Worth

I can still remember the first time I almost see death and the first time I brought death to others. It is funny to think that the first man I killed was the man I thought once will save me and will show me the answer on what is my worth.

 

Back then I was walking aimlessly while holding carelessly a little life that was given to me. The pain and grief I felt earlier when I saw death and almost die as well from the first time, have long gone -- only emptiness and numbness has taken over me.

 

"Are you a lost child?" A man suddenly spoke to me but I was so out of it that I didn't even bother to answer him.

 

"Is that your sibling?" He then reached out his hand to the baby I was holding tight, it made me flinched then shrugged away his hands and glares at him.

 

"Whoa...Easy...I won't take your baby from you" He chuckles and then reach out his hand again waiting for me the hold it. "My name is Kaede, if you have nothing to go... I can give you a place that both of you can stay and live happily from now on"

 

I stares at him blankly "There's a place that I can be in?" I muttered and reached out the hand which I thought will show me a path now.

 

At that time, I failed to see that man's evil grin as he watches me fall into his lie-- I honestly thought I was saved. When we got back to his house, what I saw first were the distorted and horrid face of other children like me who are bound by ropes and was crying. I turn my back and what I saw next was his face which was hidden most by his sun glasses but I can almost feel his cold breathe as I step back away from him.

 

He was smiling but it now reeked of evilness and even though I want to run away, my body won't move an inch. "What are you planning to do with us?" I can hear the hoarseness of my voice that was trembling in fear.

 

Kaede grins at me and lean forward "Don't worry I won't hurt as long as you quietly obey me all times"

 

I grit my teeth and give him a nod " I...I understand" 

 

He made me and the other children do some dirty works for him. From begging money on people in streets it got escalated to stealing and other mischief. The same routine went on everyday until almost three years has gone past.

 

Elle has also turned three years old and wasn't yet aware of the things Kaede made me do. I beg him to just let her stay at home and let me do all the dirty works for him. But as one would expected once a liar will always be deceitful and will turn his back against you. His eyes would always follow her and it cause me unease and fear. It was creepy. 

 

"Hey, want to go somewhere with me princess?" I saw him kneeling down and holding Elle's arm tightly. I hurriedly run over to them and then pushes him away from her.

 

"Elle are you alright?" I frantically asks her and she just gave me a nod.

 

"Hey, I'm planning to sold that kid to a rich pervert man that will sure give me a large some of money in exchange with that little girl" He grumbles and then grabs her away from me.

 

I bring out the knife that I was hiding and hold it tight with both of my hands. He just smirked at me and even dare me to come and stab him with the knife. I turn my gaze to Elle and saw her crying and trembling with fear. To my surprise that actually made me calm down and so I straighten up and then shift the knife to my right hand and tighten my grip on the knife. I take a deep breathe in then begin walking forward to him slowly.

 

"What's with you, why are our eyes looks like that?!" He looks surprised and as if he has seen a ghost as he watches me getting closer to him. He then shove Elle away and rushed forward at me.

 

I just stood still and wait for him to come at me. His eyes were focused on the knife that was on my right hand  as he come closer, then when we were just an arm apart I dropped the knife that's on my right arm which caught him off guard. Instinctively his eyes, as well as his body, follows the knife and I was able to avert his focus on me.

 

I drew out another small dagger that I was hiding at my left hand and stab his neck with it. "Shit! I can't believe that I was by a ki..." A large thump then follows as he fell down on the floor.

 

A large pool of blood appeared as his blood  flows non stop out of his neck. For a second, I thought I saw myself that was drenched in blood as I watches the lifeless body of the first man I killed. This thought suddenly brought down a chill into my numb body.

 

I was so confused on what's happening to me, but sure even as a child, I know that the something inside me has died as well. My hands suddenly trembles and I can hear myself screaming a soundless voice

 

How much a man life's worth and what is really life's worth--until now I haven't got an answer for that. But I guess in order to know the answer, I need to hold on to this beautiful lie called life.

 

***

 

"Kai, are you sure it's safe to stay here in Hellas?" Elle asked me while looking all serious and worried,"Are you not worried on the news that Two Big kingdoms have joint together to take down this small country?" she debated and anticipates my answer to her question.

 

"I know how you feels but I can't take away this feeling that I need to stay closer to that man in order to know all the answers to my questions, that I've had in mind since from the start " I said to her and then gave her smile to reassured her that everything is going to be alright.

 

But in order to be on the safe side I did asked Elle and our men to leave this place and wait until I called for them, but she and the others refused saying that they won't leave me alone in danger. But who would have thought that right now I'll find myself seeing almost my own death once again.

 

''I don't know if this man was brave or just plainly foolish'' is what I thought as I look at General Shin who is eating in front of me.

 

This man selfishly brought me together with him on this place, that no one would thought he himself will go to. I can't believe it myself but I am now right with him, yes--that same general who should be of all people knows, that if he went himself in Hellas enemy's den it's just death waiting for him.

 

"What are you staring at? Aren't you hungry? We haven't eaten for a long time and it's necessary that you fill your stomach and regain strength...Kai" this man said to me, which only made me furious on how relaxed he was considering that anytime, we might be spotted by someone who knows him.

 

"You! I can't believe how relaxed you are right now, do you think it's easy to enter that palace to see that weak prince of Arias and talk to him personally? I snapped and then he covered my mouth to stop me from saying anything more.

 

"Shhh...are you stupid? What if the people here heard you? he shooed me and then looked around to see if anyone heard what I said. "Sigh...Good thing, it looks like nobody heard what you said" He let out an audible sigh of relief after confirming that nobody heard us.

 

Earlier this man suggested an unbelievable plan to an important man from the palace of Hellas named General Leone, who went his way to him in order to persuade him to join the upcoming war and lead the Hellas army.

 

"Shin!", that man called Leone called out to him and then place his hand on General Shin's shoulder," I know that you are against this war but you can't escape from the reality that our men was about to enter a field that will soon bath in blood!" He grabs tight his shoulder and take out a deep breathe "We need you to prevent this from happening!" He sounded desperate. I almost pity him from the way he beg this uncaring man.

 

"I understand how you feels but not all the time we will win by fighting" Shin answered him calmly and then slowly removes the hand that's grabbing his shoulders. "Sometimes one will win by not fighting" He firmly said --which made me and the others who heard his answer confused on what he meant by his comment.

 

All of us believe that it's not like the general was afraid because of the numbers of the enemy, so what is it that he is planning to do in order to stop this war that will surely costs death to many.

 

"Sigh...you are really hard to persuade, I know that you have something in your mind right now to end all of this, just get to the point, Shin!" that man called Leone shouted to him after releasing a big sigh in front him.

 

General Shin smirked then winked at him " I know you might get mad at me on this plan but I have a proposal to made" He sounded confident with that plan of his and in front of all others who are listening as well.

 

This man actually proposed such crazy idea of going into the kingdom of Arias alone and negotiate with their prince personally. And if ever the prince would not accept his proposal, he would personally end the enemy's head. By doing this it will not just end the conflict but might even cause the other country to be reluctant in attacking them for a while.

 

General Leone frowned upon hearing his plan "Have you gone mad?!"

 

"You see a man's life worth depends on how oneself see it, but most of all on how other people see it" he said to him, half smiling and then suddenly draw his sword then kneel down in front of that man called Leone.

 

He then tilt his head up and glares at him "If you think that this is just cowardice and won't agree with me, you can now end my life with this sword, for I don't plan on dying in a fight without the chance of winning" 

 

All of us agree that this plan might work if it is him who'll do it. But just like what he said his life's worth might be less than of a prince if one will compares, but still for the people of Hellas--his life worth more than it's king. And yet this man, I know that for him his own life worth's less than the people he vowed to protect his life with.

 

I don't know if I can agree with his plan or not, But still chose to be with him right now and help him. I just hope that my decision of coming and staying beside him are all worth it.

 

The Black Snow Prince

Out of all kingdoms of this era, Arias was the closest in having all nation be united in one. But like any other country with too much land and people it needs to protect, this country can barely protect its own from the endless attacks coming from its enemies. Including internal attacks coming from grudges from the people of the lands they conquered before.

 

The same problem arises within its own kingdom, were lies and betrayals were so common that one can barely be surprised. This is where this prince have been living his life and taught to carry in the future.

 

Being such a large kingdom, who would have taught that it's king will only have one child and refused to have another one, after his queen died from the hands of an assassin send by unknown enemy. That prince name was Rene who was also known as the Black Snow Prince, because of his long black hair that flows on his pale white skin. He was often treated as meek and weak compared to other men in the military, but his accomplishment was not of the weak and his intelligence can't be compared even to their kingdom's oldest ministry and king's advisers.

 

He was the secret behind the kingdom's strong military and economic strategy, that's why on a young age he became as well one of the generals that leads their army. Some said that even though his strength can't be compared to other great general of this era, his sword and bow skills are top notch.

 

"Prince, what do you think Hellas will do upon hearing the news of Cyrene helping us on this upcoming war with them?"  One of the king's adviser ask him, who was also curious to see how would he answer this.

 

"If I were them, I'll make a move first" He grinned and make a sudden pause on his words; " And the best time to do it is right now! While both kingdoms are still preparing themselves for the upcoming war" he added.

 

The adviser seems to be taken a back with his answer and was staggering when he replied to him "What? then what we are waiting for, we should attack them sooner!" The adviser frantically told him, fearing that the enemy general might attack them first unprepared.

 

"Now...now...calm down there old geezer" he said to him while looking at him mockingly because of his funny reaction. " Didn't I say that there's no escape now for them, so rest assured and leave this to us youngsters" He smirked.

 

The adviser cluck his tongue and frowned on his haughty confidence "Tsk! we better not failed this war again for the second time!" he reasoned and tried to pressed on, but then the prince just excused himself to leave in order to rest now to his room.

 

While walking he got lost in thought and found himself smiling secretly "So what will be your first move now Hellas...No... General Shin!"  He became thrilled by the thought of what will the famous general will do in this hopeless situation.

 

The prince strongly believes that someone like General Shin will not just sit around and fight a losing war. He had this instinct that if he's going to make a move the best time will be this time around. He had sent spies on Hellas to watch his movement but no one has reported any suspicious activity by him--that's why he is also thinking what more can he possibly do to make a miracle and win this war.

 

But his instinct did not really failed him. Just like what he said, there is no other perfect opportunity to make a move than this time which is why right now, even his eyes can't believe what he is seeing right now--but a familiar face has shown in front of him.

 

 He gasped in surprise when he saw the man who sneak in his room "I...I didn't know that you have a hobby of night crawling a man's room...General Shin"  The prince stammered but then straighten himself up as he face General Shin, who was sitting on his room window.

 

"Heh...just like what I've heard you're really a funny guy, aren't you...Prince Rene" He smirked 

 

He raised an eye brow and frowned at him "I've heard that it was always your liking to cut down the enemy's head first, but I can't believe that you are this naive to think that by killing me it will stop the war...I'm so disappointed with you...is this all you are capable of?" As if he was taunting him he just wished to smear away the smirk on his face.

 

The General then grinned" Rest assured I am not here to kill you" He stepped down from the window and then came closer to him.

 

As he move closer, the prince can see the blood coming from his sword and some splats on his face and his silver white hair. His appearance was truly like that of a demon which even him can't help but shiver by the thought of what made this kind of man to come personally and see him.

 

The Prince shuddered as he move closer "So what is it you came here for?" he asked him while looking for a chance to draw his sword once he showed any sign of lowering his guard.

 

The General stops and then smile at him "Black Snow Prince, care to listen to an old story of an Unknown?" he said, with his eyes flashing.

 

Story of An Unknown

Once there was a king who took in a peasant woman whose family background and name was unknown to all. His current queen cannot give him a child and so the king's adviser told the king to get another woman as his second wife. 

 

Unknown to all that his queen was a jealous queen who did all things needed in order to make those women disappeared in the kingdom. She can't accept the fact that her king will have a child with another woman besides her.

 

The peasant woman has a long white silky hair that was uncommon to the people on the kingdom who have black hair. This made the queen more jealous of her--thinking that she was a witch that has bewitched the king. And so came the day that she's most afraid of.

 

The Queen learned that the peasant woman was bearing a child but instead she ordered that palace maid to keep this a secret from others, including the king. She told the peasant woman to hide this fact and instead the queen announce to all that she's finally became pregnant with the king's first child.

 

She asks the king and all to leave her alone with her most trusted palace maid and the king's second wife to assist and help her during her pregnancy. So for one year they live together on the queen's manor, unknown to all that it was the second wife who was pregnant and not her.

 

And so the peasant woman gave birth to a boy who was announced as the kingdom crown prince as well. The queen was glad to see that the boy has a black hair that he got from the king's genes and not the silver hair his real mother has.

 

Five years has passed since then but the queen noticed that the king's affection was still with her and his newborn child. It was as if she was out of the king's eyes even if she made sure to be the only one close to him. And to her surprised she learned that the peasant woman was gave birth to the king's second child.

 

The queen became restless and thought that not only this might take the king away from her more than what is now, she's always concern that the peasant woman might blabber the truth behind the secret of the king's first child. The second child although it's a girl, she has the same red eyes that the king's first child had, which made the other think that it was actually the second wife child and not of the queen.

 

One day the queen ordered some of his men to kidnapped and kill the peasant woman and her newborn child to get her away from her and her king's life. The peasant woman was able to escape with her child and got helped from her childhood friend who was a general of a small country.

 

The general who protected the peasant woman died from the hands of the queen's men and his own men who was bribe and betrayed him back then. But he was able to pass this story of an unknown to his foster son who made a promise to avenge his death.

 

And so that foster child of the general after he climbed his way to the top promised to avenged her foster father death and make all the people who caused his death to pay for their sins. He then started his plan by ordering one of his men to leave a secret letter to the king and let him know the truth about his queen and the disappearance of her beloved.

 

"That foster son was not surprised to hear that the queen just suddenly disappeared and said to be killed by an unknown enemy"  Said by General Shin; who was waiting for the reaction of the prince after he heard this story. An awkward silence then follows as both of them stares at each other.

 

Prince Rene close his eyes and then take a deep breathe out "The same case with that king's first child on that story who was told to keep this as a secret from his father himself" said by general Rene, half smiling  and then he walk closer to the general.

 

"That King and his child are willing to do anything in order to find their two beloved women, he added, Even if we have to work with an enemy with a hidden devil's plan" he strongly told him and then reach out his hand to him to mark his allegiance with the white devil in front of him.

 

General Shin smirked "I'm glad you enjoyed this little story of an unknown I've been wanting to tell you" General Shin said to him as he reach out to the prince hands to shake hands with him.

 

Fated Meeting With The Red Haired Devil

In sync with the music that was being played was her movement and her red hair that flows with it. She entice everyone in this place where one can find and enjoy all kinds of pleasure. The woman who has caught all men gazes, making other women inside the house jealous of her who was getting all the attention from their wealthy customers, was smiling like a devil who has perfectly let them fall into her spell.

 

  Kai was wearing a red floral Kimono with his long red hair down letting it flows as he moves. He was holding a paper fan that he flips open and close as he dances, while giving suggestive looks on the men inside who was watching her every movement.   

 

"I hope things on his side was getting good as well" Kai who was lost in thinking muttered, as he dances in front of the men who was seduced by his beauty, no woman in the kingdom can be compared.

 

Kai can hardly hold his laugh as he watches these men inside looking at him with such lustful eyes, not knowing that he was actually a man. But somewhat this also made him want to puke, thinking how disgusting they all look to him. But for the sake of his plan he must swallow all of these.

 

Kai and General Shin decided that they must get as much as many information that might be helpful on their current situation and in the future as well. And for them there's only one place one can get such important information, and that will be inside a prostitute pub house where high ranking officials and men gathers.

 

While the general was away he again disguised himself as a woman and work for the mean time inside the town's famous prostitute house. For just a few days she was able to gather important information and learned names that will be helpful someday to Hellas.

 

Tonight should be the last one that he will be here and hoped that nothing will happen that will ruin their plans. That was until she was told that an important high ranking official from a foreign land who came recently to their kingdom, insist to see her and even paid a large amount of gold and silver to be with him for the night. He doesn't want to look suspicious so he accepted the offer and told the manager of the pub that this will be the last time he's going to work with them. Kai thought that if that customer try to do something funny to her he will just need to kill him secretly and escape.

 

As he entered the room he felt two men hiding behind with such murderous aura and in front of him was a man who was wearing white cloak with his two swords beside him, making him alarmed on what's going on but he tried to remain calm and pretend that he did not notice the other men hiding behind.

 

"Who would have thought that I'll meet you earlier than what I expected? And it was here in Arias of all place" The man smirked and then walk closer to him.

 

"Sir, you must have mistaken me for someone" Kai told him calmly and faking a smile, while trying to remember if he had met him before.

 

 He chuckles on the sight of her trying to hide her nervousness with her awkward smile "My name is Hawk, General Hawk from the kingdom of Cyrene" He told Kai as he lean forward, moving closer to his face and suddenly grabbed his red hair towards him, then kissed Kai.

 

He kissed him so deep that Kai can barely stand and breath, but still he was able to push him back and then draw the hidden dagger he had. Kai also did not fail to be alert and get ready to fight as well the other two men who was hiding behind that might jump at him anytime.

 

 It was unknown to General Hawk, that Kai was hiding a poisoned needle inside his mouth that will killed anyone the instant it pricks him. He got this ready earlier in case needed.

 

He grunt and then spits his blood on the floor "That's what you get from being heated and excited so fast...you pervert general!" Kai told him mockingly while grinning--thinking that it's a matter of time before he dies.

 

But opposite of what he's hoping for, the general suddenly grabbed his hand then pinned him against the wall. He then knuckles his hand that's holding the dagger, making him dropped it on the floor. General Hawk open his mouth and showed him while grinning as well, the needle that was supposed to kill him that was caught between his teeth.

 

"Hahaha...so I was not mistaken it was really you, the red haired devil that I saw earlier, or should I say nice to see you again, Maria!" He shouted excitedly and  gave an eerie laugh that can be heard on the whole place.

 

Kai froze "How would this man knows immediately that I was Maria?" he then shift his gaze on his dagger that he dropped earlier.

 

"Tsk! Let go of me! I don't know what you are talking about!" Kai shouted as he struggle in order to escape from the general's hand.

 

"It's useless to pretend that you are not Maria, just one look in your eyes I know that it was you!" he let out a soft laugh and grabbed his arms tighter.

 

"You think this is enough to stop me?" Kai smirked and then shoved back as far as he could, he elbowed him on the stomach then turn around his body and gave him a kick which made the general loose his balance.

 

Kai then picks up the dagger on the floor and  turn his gaze on the exit door. He then run outside the room not wasting even a second. Panting, he then saw a faint glint of light on her left side but he quickly move out of its range and avoided the blade. Kai gasp as he saw three strands of his hair floats in the air. Kai's gaze flick on the man who attacked him so he twisted around and slice him through his throat. 

 

He grimace on the sight of the blood as the man fell down, with his eyes wide open --but he cannot stop. He can't allow himself being caught by the hands of this men and die here meaningless. It slips out of his mind that there are two of them and so he was caught off guard by the other man behind him. The edge of his blade caught his arm that's holding the dagger," Urg!" it makes him greet his teeth as it sent a sharp tearful pain to him.

 

The man then grabs him, encircling his arms on him. Kai, ignoring the pain on his arm, twist the dagger on his hands so that it will face backwards and then shove it back. The man groans as the dagger thrust into the side of his stomach. He then release Kai while he stumbles away and fell down to his knees.

 

He was able to knock down the other two men who was hiding before that gave him a chase but when she reach the top it was dead end. There's no other way to escape but to jump on this fifth floor tall building. 

 

"Shit! What now?" She looks around to see if there's a ladder or anything she can use to escape.

 

General Hawk was able to chase Kai but then was so surprise when Kai ripped the Kimono that he was wearing and jumped down the building.

 

 "You! do you wish to die instead of being captured by me!" Startled he then run towards the rail to see what happened after she jumps.

 

He don't know whether to feel happy or mad upon seeing her being still alive. She was able to tied the torn kimono's piece neatly on the first floor rails and then gave him a mocking smile as she jumps down and escape her way from him.

 

"This was the second time I let you escape from me...no it's the third time" He grunts and clenched his teeth as he watches the red haired devil slowly disappearing from his sight. He turn his back away on the rail to have his exit as well.

 

His face scrowl as he remember Maria's face as he escape from jumping off the rail "Tsk!" he clucked his tongue and then notice something on his clothes that was left by Kai.

 

Left by Kai was a strand of his long red hair that was caught between his clothes when he caught him earlier, The general clenched his fist that's holding his hair and promised to himself that this will be the last time he'll let Maria escape from his grasp.

 

Wheel of Fate Turning

"Hu...Huff ...Shit, what's with that man?" Kai was panting heavily and barely catches his breath from running, “I didn't expect someone who recognize and knows Maria" then he quickly turn back his head and look around to see if somebody was able to follow him; " Good, nobody has followed me." He let out an audible sigh and then has his tense shoulder rest.

 

"How unlucky for me to have such crazy stalker" His face scrawls suddenly upon remembering what the general did to him earlier.

 

He touched his lips as he felt the cut on it, "Tsk! There's even blood on my lips" he then spits some blood inside his mouth. “It’s that entire crazy general fault, how careless of me to let a man do such disgusting thing!" he grumbles to himself, disgusted with the kiss he made with the general.

 

Suddenly large pelting drops of rain falls heavily, making her drenched wet in a second, "I'm really unlucky today" he sighed and then closed his eyes as he let the rain washed away the blood on his face. “It’s cold but this feels nice" that's what he thought as he let himself get wet on the rain.

 

It was as if the world becomes mute and only the loud noise of battering rain keeps on ringing on his ears. Instead of sheltering his self out of the rain he just standstill outside for almost an hour, until the dark sky cleared up—and the sounds came back again.

 

 A man then lurked behind him "I didn't expect that you like the rain as well" said by the man, Kai thought he has to blame for all things that happened this night.

 

"I really hate that grin in your face that you are making right now...General Shin" Kai then turn his head back and gave him a painful glare that just made the general laugh in amusement.

 

Kai clenched his trembling fist from anger, controlling her urge to throw him a fist, “So...did it go well between you and the prince" He asked while biting his lips and force himself to give him a smile.

 

However, the general can see the curl between his brows as he tried to control himself from hitting him,"hahaha...sorry...you...you're just so easy to understand, aren't you?" The general snorted then he pressed his hands on Kai's shoulder," Don't worry I managed to convince him, so we can go back now to Hellas!" he said to him, with his eyes smiling as well.

 

Doubtful with his words Kai raised an eye brow "What the hell did he say to the prince that convinced him to stop that war that they started?" He thought since the general didn't tell him how he will convince the prince.

General noticed that his mouth is bleeding, then narrow his gaze to Kai's mouth to look closer "Hey, your lips are bleeding" General Shin told him and then pressed his fingers against his lips.

 

Kai blinks and then shove away his hand "Ah...No...This is nothing!" he stammered.

 

"What's with you acting like some maiden who had her first kiss stolen?" the general told him as he noticed his face became red and his eyes that can't seem to look straight at him.

 

Shunned by his words Kai then frowns at him "Me...a maiden? What first kiss...being...stolen you are spouting about! He shouted while covering his mouth; " I got this from a fight earlier" he desperately explained to him then immediately turned away his back from him.

 

Ashamed with his reaction he doesn't dare to look back at the general who was snorting behind. “Let’s stop wasting our time here while being drenched from the rain" he then walk away to go back inside the room they rented earlier.

 

"Hey! Haven’t I warned you to stay low as possible?" he shouted at him, "Pfft...what kind of man would say that with a serious face?" he muttered and snickered to himself as he remember his stern face, when he strongly repute his comment that his reaction was like a maiden, who had her first kiss stolen.

 

Meanwhile inside that Kingdom of Arias palace, two men have their minds filled with thoughts of what happened tonight, unable to sleep a wink.

 

"What's her purpose here in Arias?" General Hawk muttered to himself as he toss around his bed thinking of his fated meeting with the red devil.

 

"She is really interesting, I guess I won't be bored for a while" he let out a smile as he remembers the look in her eyes just before Kai Jumps out of the rails.

 

Her eyes that was strongly looking straight to his eyes, unwavering-- with a face that seems to be glowing with redness and surrounded by rose petals. It was because her hair was illuminated by the moonlight, that's flowing smoothly against the north wind. He can't help but shiver from the breath taking scene he saw, unable to move and take a step to catch her.

 

On the other side, the prince of Arias keeps on pondering if he made the right choice of trusting the number one enemy of their kingdom, General Shin. "What kind of joke fate has brought upon us" He whispered to himself thinking how funny it is that of all things that will led them a clue for his sister whereabouts, this coming war becomes his footstep for it.

 

It was also at the same time in the country of Hellas, Elle who was lost in thought while gazing on the moon that's seems to be so near that all she just need to do is to stretch her hand and she would be able to catch it. Yet it seems that it was her hand that becomes smaller as she tries to stretch it out to the moon.

 

Splash! (Sound of water) "Argh...it’s cold" Elle shrugged in cold as she take a deep on a secret swamp she found while in General Shin's manor. She always takes her bath in there secretly every night, while enjoying the quietness of the surrounding and the moonlight that's shines brightly in the dark.

 

"I wonder how Kai is doing." She muttered as she thinks of Kai who left her behind; saying that it would be dangerous if she went with him.

 

"Sigh...I should have insist to come with him" She sighed and then take a deep breath before she dive in. And when she emerged from the swamp, you can see her silver like blue hair shines against the moonlight.

 

"How lucky for me to see such stunning sight" suddenly a voice from behind said this to her.

 

"Who is there?" Startled, she shouted then looks around to see where the voice came from. A man then came out from behind and introduces himself to her.

 

The man came out of the darkness and came in the silver light that the moon illuminate "I'm sorry for my rudeness, but I can't help but be awed by this night princess that I'm seeing right now" said by the man that Elle recognized.

 

It was General Leone, the man who came to persuade General Shin to lead in the upcoming war between Hellas and Arias. He then move closer to her and kneel down in order to see her clearly.

 

Her face becomes red as she saw his eyes staring at her, who was bare and naked "You! How uncouth is it for a man like you to peek and disturb a maiden who's taking her bath right now!" Elle shouted while hiding her embarrassment and was just able to cover herself with her long hair.

 

Astonished with her reaction the General let out a soft laugh "Please don't mistake me, this area is restricted for outsiders like you and was curious to see who dares to be here this time around" he told her and gave her a smile.

 

A blank face from her then follows “But who would have thought that I'll found a night princess, how lucky I am!" he smirked and then jumped inside the swamp.

 

Elle was lost in words when he saw him jumped in and move closer to her. He then holds her hand and kissed it, making her tremble in anger and embarrassment.

 

"Please tell me your name, young lady" General Leone asks her while looking at her with such passion, "Are you one of the servants here?" he asked her and then pulled her hand to move her closer to him.

 

He was about to kiss her but Elle stop him in nick of time" What do you think you're doing!" she shouted with her voice trembling in anger.

 

Elle gave her a scorned look and then glares at him "You...stupid general, do you think anyone will just let you do anything just because you are a general!" she told him and then pushes him away with all her might.

 

Taken a back with her reaction the general let out a loud laugh "Pfft...hahaha, what...this is the first time I was rejected by a woman and with such strong passion", he then once again hold her hand and kissed it.

 

Elle with her mouth open gasp at his actions "I'll let you off the hook for now, since this is our first meeting" he said to her while grinning, I'll see you around...night princess!" that's what he told her before he left her alone.

 

Blood rushes to her face and she felt it becoming warm amidst the cold water "Shit! What the hell is his problem!? is what she thought as she watches his back as he walks away.

 

"Sir did something good happen to you?" asked by one of the general henchmen who noticed the general secretly smiling for no reason.

 

He turns his head to him "I just found something that will save me from boredom while staying here" he answered and then look up to see the full moon.

 

"This night princess is really beautiful" he muttered to himself.

 

"Oh...do you mean the moon?" his henchman commented and was perplexed on how the general eyes look like as he gaze on the moon.

 

Each one of them doesn't realize the wheel of fate turning against their will. No one yet realize the tragedy that will fall upon them in the coming days. Tonight's events have triggered a drastic change to their fate and life.

 

 

 

 

 

What Is A Promise

Kai's POV

 

There are times that I'll wake up in the middle of night from the nightmare of my past, fifteen years ago. I can still vividly see and smell the blood that's surrounding me at that time. And fate would have it, in the middle of my grievance because of my mother's death, I saw this woman stabbed with an arrow on her chest and carrying a child. She selfishly made me promised her to take care of the child in exchange with a promise, that this child will bring me happiness as well in the future.

 

At her last breath the woman whispered on my ears a secret she told me no one should ever be told...it was this child given name. What it means and who she is, none of it was answered, since dead cannot talk back anymore. 

 

"Since a dead cannot hear and talk anymore..." I muttered as I look on the child that was left in my hands, "I'll just made the promise with you that I'll take care and protect you for the rest of your life."

 

I was about to take an empty path but this promise gave me a reason to continue living in this chaotic world. It was just like what my mother told me to promise her that I'll find something not only worth dying for...but worth living for. 

 

General Shin's POV

 

The first time I saw these two people, that was drenched in the rain and said that they were orphans that has nowhere to go, I remember the two promises I made to myself and the man I looked up to.

 

The two of them claimed to be innocent orphans that's asks to be saved but their eyes, specially the eyes of this young man with red hair doesn't reflect hope to be save by anyone. But looking closely, his eyes reflects a strong will to live and is relunctant to depend on others. I remember myself past self to him, the time before Jin found me.

 

But unlike me the two of them has a name they can be called. I don't understand myself but by meeting them, I finally understand what Jin means when he said that he found his happiness by bringing hope to the others, who has lost fate in believing to other people's kindness.

 

I as well was saved by a stranger kindness thus as I promised to Jin, I'll also save many people as possible be it like a hero or an evil. But I want to find something worth dying for, like what Jin has found.

 

The day before Jin disappeared, he was able to tell me the story about an unknown woman, who seek help from him. It didn't take me long to learn the real story behind his disappearance and thus made my second promise not seek vengeance, but to carry his will. Which became one of my reason to become stronger and live.

 

I made a promise to myself to protect what's in front of me and never again  experience the despair I felt when I failed to protect, the person I found worth living for.

 

Innocent Calm

“Arg...That general never fails in making me pissed each time he'll open that mouth of his!” Kai shouted as he enter his room and close the door. He then removes his clothing that was soaked in blood and rain, then before he rest, he also made sure that his door was locked so that General Shin would not be able to bother him.

 

“Ouch!” He looks and noticed that he has sprained his left wrist; “did I get hurt because of that man strongly grabbing my hands earlier?” He mumbled and remember again General Hawk look in his eyes when he looks at him.

 

His eyes reflect somebody who has a strong desire to get and own something he has been wanting for. “What the hell did I do to him?” He asked himself; “this is the first time I saw him...so why does he sound that he knew me from a long time?” he tried to remember harder where he might have seen him before, but it was for no luck at all.

 

“Hey! Open the door for me!” The general shouted as he stands in front of his room's door.

 

“W...What do you want!?” Although reluctant, he opened the door and let him inside his room. “I'm here for this”, the general then showed him a first aid kit and then grabbed his left arm, “Ouch!” Kai shouted and then pulled away the general's hand.

 

“Just like what I thought”, he then sit on Kai's bed and asked him to sit beside him.

 

“What do you think you're doing?” Kai was so perplexed with this man's action.

 

“Isn't it obvious? I'm here to fix your sprained wrist with this”; the general showed him the bandage and then wrapped it on his sprained wrist.

 

Kai was lost with his words because he didn't expect him to bother himself with an injured hired mercenary like him. He noticed that the general seems good in this and unknown to him that he's been staring the general intensely.

 

“Are you trying to seduce me, Maria?” He leered as he notices him blankly staring at him and found it funny somehow, so as a tease he kissed Kai's hand like that of a princess and then grins at him.

 

You! Kai shouted as he blushes because of what the general did.

 

The general just gave him a snort and then laughs at him as he leaves his room and told him to wake up early tomorrow.

 

The next morning after they packed up to get ready and return to Hellas, General Shin told him that there is a place he wishes to stop first. On the way, he bought some flowers and then asked Kai to come with him in a place; he had wanted to go back.

 

This is... Reim

 

Kai was so surprised when the general brought them to a deserted place which Kai knows best what kind of place it is before. It's the town where he was born and forced to leave before. The noisy town folks chattering and the children laughing were nowhere to be found, all they can see is an empty barren land.

 

The general then took off from his horse and then placed the flowers to leave it on that deserted place. Kai was surprise to see that calm and gentle face that he is making right now.

 

“It was here that Jin as seen last back when he was told to protect this town people from an unknown enemy”, the general told him with his deep calm voice; which almost made Kai think that he is with a different person.

 

“Jin? You mean the man who raised you as his son?” Kai told him;

 

“Oh so you have heard about him, is it from my men?” The general turned his head to him, “that man was even more uncouth than me and always made me, a child at that time, to do impossible things that you can think of”, he chuckled then began telling him excitedly stories about Jin.

 

While the general was talking, Kai suddenly remembered what his men told him, about the surprising general's calmness when he first heard the tragic news of what happened to the person he must have considered most dear.

 

“He was strangely calm and collected, without even shedding a single tear after we told him what happened to Jin”, Kai thought and then suddenly remembered one of the villager commented when he asked them how the general when he heard what was happened to his benefactor.

 

Kai opened his mouth and then closed it again “Even right now, it was as if he was telling me these things that happened fifteen years ago nonchalantly and even looked like as if he was happy remembering his past” he said to himself.

 

“This is something I can’t do and wouldn’t even dare to do” Kai muttered.

 

“Why are you so calm telling me these things”, Kai asked him and was even pissed on how nonchalant he is right now. The general just half smiled and the turned his back on him.

 

“In a chaotic world like this, where war and death are everywhere...those who have regrets will surely be the one to die first” he told him and then ride back to his horse, “Let's go back now to Hellas!” 

 

“I really can't comprehend this man's thinking”, that's what Kai thought of him at this time. With the snap of the reins we galloped off on our stallion leaving as well our regrets on this barren land.

Requiem Of Chaos

“I received the message from General Shin that he's going to come back now” General Leone said to one of General Shin's men, he then anxiously sat down on his table and placed his hands on it. His men just quietly watch him as he sit there silently while tapping the table.

 

Almost three days has passed since General Shin left his manor and they never heard anything from him. Everyone was restless and the air has been heavy since he left because of the incoming war with Arias.

 

 “I know it's important but he could have let me know what happened in Arias!” he grumbles, his fist slamming down the table.

 

A running footstep breaks down the silence “Sir, The General has returned with his companion”, his adviser announced and then he hurriedly went to the main hall to see the general.

 

Shin! The general shouted in excitement, “how are the things in Arias?” he asked him and then turned his eyes to his companion, “Who's this young woman you brought in with you?”

 

“She's just a mercenary I hired; anyway let's talk about this inside my room... Leone”, General Shin circled his arms then led him inside and left Maria.

 

Kai! Elle shouted while running towards him, “I'm so glad you're back now” she jumped to him and hugged Kai.

 

“I'm glad to be back as well” Kai said while ruffling her head.

 

“What's the problem?” Elle asked Kai noticing that Kai looks lifeless.

 

Kai just shook his head “Don’t worry, I'm just tired...I'll go back to our room now”

 

Before Kai turned his back, one of General Leone's men came in a hurry and announced that another important guest has come to General Shin's manor. And before he can announce the guest name, he was interrupt by that person and welcomed herself inside.

 

“I'm Princess Lian and I'm here to speak with General Shin”, she introduced herself then asked for the general presence.

 

She has an intimidating aura just like her mother, the Hellas's queen and with quite noticeable dark black eyes and black long hair. But the relationship of the two was not of that mother and child. It was quite known in Hellas that her majesty's affection was just towards General Leone. 

 

She's around the same age with Elle, and not only that. Looking closely their face look the same, only that Elle's eyes were more gentle and kind. That's why the princess noticed and approaches her to look closely.

 

“Who are you?”  She asked Elle sharply, intimidating her.

 

Elle raise an eye brow “Why would a princess bothered to ask a peasant her name?” Elle back talk pissed in the princess haughty attitude.

 

”You don't think that because you're some...hmp!” Kai shut her mouth before she can even further say disrespectful words to the princess.

 

 Elle glares at the princes as she struggle and mumble while Kai was covering her mouth. “Her name is Elle, were just someone that consider General Shin as our benefactor so if you'll excuse us”, Kai bow her head then drag Elle out of the room and leave the princess behind.

 

Meanwhile the two General inside General Shin's room were talking about what has the prince of Arias told General Shin.

 

A loud bang can be heard inside General Leon’s room “Tsk! Are you kidding me?!” General Leone shouted after he heard what the conditions the Prince are and General Shin both agreed on.

 

“Leone, believe me this is the right thing we must do!” General Shin firmly said to him.

 

“Who would believe in such outrageous Idea?”  The general debated, waiting for him to give him realistic explanation.

 

They are having a heated conversation as General Shin relay to him the things that he has discussed with the Prince of Arias. He then begin explaining to him that since the start there are endless war everywhere because all wants to be recognized in power or protect themselves from those who are trying to take their existence. It all come to one cause and that is to be understood. Different culture, people, morals and principle, these things were the cause of endless war they have now.

 

“Man of the past was able to think of only one solution to this, which is to unite everything in one heaven, this was the biggest mistake our ancestor has done”, said by Prince Rene who sounded very confident that General Shin was thinking the same thing.

 

“I'm happy that we think the same solution for this”, General Shin told him with a grin on his face.

 

Returning back from his memories of his conversation with the Prince of Aria, general Shin then look straight to his friend eyes, unwavering “But this solution is even harder than making all nations be united in one heaven!” General Leone strongly said to him.

 

“We are planning to build a consensus of several nations who will made a pact to support each other and will join together in order to declare war to whoever is planning to threaten its member country” General explained to him and wishes for his friend to agree and understand its cause.

 

The general move closer and pat his shoulder, I was about to suggest it to the Prince of Arias and was surprise that he already started convincing other nations and was about to made this official to all, he then looked him on his eyes and told him that this will be a hard road to take but they need to take its risk for the sake of future.

 

General Leone then leave his room and told him that he would need some more time to think about what he said. General Shin believes that his friend would agree with their plan even though he'll be reluctant at first.

 

“Man, that prince was really unpredictable”, General Shin thought as he remembers Prince Rene words to him before he left his room.

 

“General Shin, I know that you'll be an important piece that will make this successful, not me” that's what the Prince told him before General Shin Left his room.

 

On the other side, Kai was also lost in thought because of the words General Shin told him before they leave Reim, the place which has now become deserted but was also Kai's birth city.

 

“I just want to ask...where you met that silvered haired girl”. The general suddenly ask Kai as he turns his back from Kai.

 

“You mean Elle?” Kai asked him, who was curious on his sudden interest with Elle.

 

The General was about to climb his horse when he pause and look back to him “We need to look for a person this a mission only you and I should know”

 

“What is it?” Kai asked him who finds it unusual for him to become restless like that.

 

“She should be on the same age with that girl Elle and also with a silver hair like her-- that person name is Elsa”, he said and then turns his back again to climb his horse.

 

 “Elsa, that was Elle's real name” Kai muttered while lying in his bed and thinking whether if it will be good to tell this now to General Shin or not.

 

The next day, a letter came in the kingdom of Hellas that surprised all. It was stated there that the Prince of Arias has come to announce that he's going to visit them and would like to make an audience with General Shin and the king himself.

 

***

 

Just after hearing the good news of the incoming war being postponed, news has been received by the Kingdom of Hellas about an important guest that will be coming to visit. It was like another festival has started, the city bustled with performers and shows, full of life and colors –it was a remarkable sight.

 

However inside the castle, it was chaotic-- specifically its occupants. The servants, maids, page and all people inside were occupied with each own business, in preparation for the coming Prince of Arias.

 

“Have you set-up those things I told you to get ready earlier?”  One of the men in castle said to a palace maid who was averting her eyes away from the man.

 

She breathes a sigh of relief when the man left, but when she turn back she stumbles across a man with such demur and gallant.

 

Startled, she dropped the vase she is holding and it break into pieces “I...I'm sorry, General Leone!” she immediately kneeled down and picks up the shards of the vase she accidentally broken.

 

“No, it's fine...”  The general reassured her and then have his men help the palace maid.

 

He was about to leave when he suddenly remembers the eyes of the princess he met one faithful night. “Wait a second is that...” He then turns his head back and grabs the maiden face that refused to look at his eyes.

 

“W...What is it you want from me?!” The palace maid who was surprised by his action asks him while averting her eyes on the general intense look.

 

“Where did that respectful and feminine tone you have earlier goes to?” He leered at her and then waives his hand to his men, signaling them to leave the two of them alone.

 

“So...What are you doing here, disguised as a palace maid…night princess?!” He smirked.

 

Elle turn his head and glares at him “Sigh...you're really one uncouth general” she sighed and move away his hands that's holding her face.

 

“It was none of your concern!” Elle ignore him and then look around to see if his men have really left them for good.

 

“Don't worry no one will dare to disobey me”, he told her upon noticing her trying to see if his men has left them, “And I do have the right to ask a suspicious person disguising herself as one of the palace maid”, he said while grinning at her.

 

Urgh, Elle was lost in words on his way of talking to her.

 

“Nevertheless, I'm glad to see you again”, the general then move closer to her and kissed her.

 

“Pfft...What a funny face you are making right now”, the general snorted at her reaction after he kissed her.

 

Her blank face then became a bit red upon hearing the general's laugh after he kissed him. It happens so fast that she barely reacts to it. She covers her mouth and then turns his back from him. She was about to run away but the general hold his arms and pulled her to him.

 

You! She wish to give him a scolding but was stopped by his lips sealing her mouth again and making her unable from uttering a single word. Hmmp! he kissed her so deep and even move his hand to open her mouth so he can kiss her using his tongue.

 

She can feel his tongue slowly locks with her tongue and having his way on her mouth. She was about to fell on her knees but the general hold her and pressed her against the wall. His kiss was so deep making her hard to breathe, Breathe through your nose, the general whisper to her and then kissed her even deeper.

 

Elle struggle with all her strength but her efforts were futile. Please tell me your name, the general at this point stop kissing her and let her go. 

 

“Who would tell a pervert like you?!”

 

Elle pushes him and then run away from him. The general can't help but be awe to her reaction and find her very interesting. He laughs as he became more amused by his found night princess.

 

On the dark corner of the room unknown to them that someone has seen the whole thing. She was covering her mouth to prevent herself from uttering a sound from the shock while secretly watching the two. "What in the world my old brother doing with some uncouth woman?" That's what Princess Lian thought upon seeing the two of them. 

 

"If I remember that's the peasant girl I saw on General Shin's manor", she muttered and then she  slowly walk away to avoid her being seen by her older brother.

 

“Hey little one where are you heading to?” she turn her head back and saw that it was General Shin who called out to her.

 

She frowned and place her hands in front of her skirt then grab on it “Sigh...when you will stop calling me that name?” She sighed and then looks to see if his brother has seen her as well. “What are you looking for?” the general asked him, noticing that her eyes seem restless.

 

“No...Nothing”, she hesitantly answered.

 

“Anyway, I've heard you came to my manor last time?” he suddenly asked her, “I'm sorry if I was not able to see you because of the things that are going around now”.

 

“I...It's not like I came for you!” She stammers and then averts his gaze to him, “I...I came for my brother since I heard he was at your place”.

 

“Is that so?” The general said while grinning at her.

 

Hmm...She nodded, but...I

 

General Shin! One of his men came interrupting them; I have confirmed that they are already on the north side of the city; the man whispered to him and then gave him a piece of paper.

 

"A shadow is lurking around the black snow prince...Maria" He opened the folded paper and sees this message sent by Kai.

 

“Little one I have to go now”; he crumpled the paper he is holding and then turns his back to her.

 

Wait! She grabs his hand and stops him from leaving, “L...Later I want you to be my escort”, she hesitantly asks him.

 

At night the kingdom will have a grand ball as a celebration and a welcome ceremony for their guest of honor that will be coming today. Everyone is anxious to see the man that holds their kingdom future.

 

“I'm sorry but I have something I need to do first tonight and I might be late for the party, just ask your brother to be your escort”, he pats her head and then leave looking preoccupied.

 

“You always made me look at your back, leaving me behind”, she muttered and just clenched her hands as she watches him leave her alone while having a disappointed look in her face.

 

“Miss Lian the queen is looking for you”, her servant who was frantically looking for her said.

 

“My mother is looking for me... What is it this time?” That’s what she thought as she follows the servant who guided her in one of the rooms in the palace where the queen was waiting.

 

“I've heard you called for me”, she said in a low meek voice as she enter the room and saw the queen sitting with her hands clasped in her table, looking all serious as she always been.

 

“Have a sit, the queen pointed at an empty chair in front of her table. “I won't beat around, you should probably heard about the prince of Arias who is coming today, right?”

 

Princess Lian lowered her eyes and takes a deep breath before she answers her mother, “Yes, I am aware of it my Queen”. She knew where this conversation will go to. With the current situation and her mother who wouldn't even care to look for her when she escapes last time suddenly wants to talk to her, it's obvious that they are planning to offer her to Arias.

 

“Then I supposed you understand your responsibility to our kingdom”, she stands and move closer to her, then tap her shoulder lightly.“Make sure you dress up well and make yourself prettier tonight”; she whispered to her and then walks away the room, leaving the mortified princess alone.

Black & White Rose

Elle find herself hidden in one of the chamber maid's room as she pants from running when she escape General Leone's grasp. "Urk...T...That lunatic general...H...How dare him to do that" Elle hissed as she wipe her mouth with her hands, disgusted with the kiss General Leone just gave her earlier.

 

She open the door slightly and peek to see if no one has followed her."I guess he didn't came after me", She breathe out a deep sigh of relief upon seeing that the general and his men didn't bother to came after her."What should I do now..." Elle muttered as she close the door and lean her back on it.

 

"Kai would surely get mad at me if he found out that I sneak my way here" She bites her thumb finger nail and her face grimed as she imagine what would Kai do if he found out that she sneak inside the Hellas palace. "He will definitely kill me!".

 

Several hours before, Kai told her that he will need to go outside the city to run some errand for General Shin and will be away for quite some long time. And Kai knowing Elle's character thought that she would definitely would want to come and follow him."I'm warning you, don't try to follow me and just stay here in General Shin's manor" He told her.

 

"YES...I know!" She answered him, shouting. 

 

But just like what Kai has predicted, she escape and sneak inside the palace, disguised as one of the palace maid."I can't just sit around and wait for him" She muttered.

 

She then heard voices from afar that seems to be coming closer. She open again the door slightly and peek whose coming. "It's that bratty princess" She gasped and see Princess Lian, together with her servant who look nervous and restless while standing in front of the door of a room that was adjacent from the room she is hiding right now. 

 

"What's going on?" She thought, curios on why the princess look pale and nervous as she enter the room. "I think its better if I'll move closer to that room", Elle then wait for the servant girl to leave first after the princess enters the room.She then lean on the door and tried to see if she can hear what the people inside are talking.

 

She could only hear murmurs inside so she gave up on the idea in trying to listen what the are talking inside. Instead, she get back in the chamber's maid room and wait until the princess gets out of that room as well.

 

After a few minutes, she saw a stern looking woman who left the room. " What a scary woman" Elle muttered and then waited until the princess get out of the room as well. Its been more than an hour already but there's still no sign of her getting out."What's taking her so long in there?" Elle thought, so growing impatient, she move closer and lean again to the room's door to check what's going on.

 

"What the hell is she crying?" Although she can barely hear anything inside, Elle could hear sobs coming inside the room. She tried to lean closer and move forward, when suddenly the door opens and made her fell on the floor.

 

"What are you doing?" The princess ask her sharply.

 

"N...Nothing,I... I'm just hear to clean the room" Elle stammered, but quickly gets up and then bow her head in front of the princess.

 

The princess just stood there in silence, "I don't know what you came here for, but you better leave now before my stupid brother finds you" The princess sighed.

 

"H...How did you know?" Elle asked.

 

"I saw your rendezvous act with my brother earlier" She smirked.

 

"Please don't misunderstand, I don't plan getting involve more than this with that pervert brother of yours!" She frowned."Anyway its not for me to meddle but It just got me curious, what could have happen for a bratty princess to cry that hard to the point your eyes become swollen like that?" Elle asked her.

 

A blank face then follows "I...I hate my life so much!" The princess suddenly burst with tears, like a child who suddenly throws her tantrums. Elle was so startled seeing the princess like this and so she grab her hand and then close the door immediately.

 

"I...I've been living my life like a puppet that was stringed and being led always by my mother, who seems to hate me from the very beginning" The princess started talking to Elle, who just stood still and watch her as she vent out her frustrations.

 

"Are you talking about that stern woman who came out first earlier?" Elle ask her. Innocently.

 

The princess nodded "She wants me to make sure that the prince of Arias would notice and like me" she told her and at that point stopped crying. "Why am I telling you these things" The princess gave her a soft laugh and then remained silent for awhile.

 

Elle look and pitied her, "Hey, do you want me to help you escape for a while" Elle ask her and grabs both of her hand then smile at her. "Sometimes you just need do breathe in some real air" Elle grinned.

 

"Pfft...Breathe in some real air... huh" The princess chuckled and then shook her head.

 

 "Its fine, I've been used with it and I know its my responsibility being a mere woman who can't fight in the battlefield.So things like being married off to some prince to maintain peace is all I can do" She told her in a low meek voice.

 

Elle raised an eyebrow "What the hell are you talking about? How did it became a common knowledge that just because those old people can't think of a better solution, you'll have to shoulder and save their asses!"

 

"Hey, I have a plan that can benefit both of us" Elle suggest her with her eyes getting bigger all of a sudden. She then move closer and then whisper something on the princess ears, which made her gasp and they both just stared to each other and gave a nod.

 

The princess called in her most trusted servant and ask her to do something for her. The servant followed her orders and then came back with the things the princess ask her. The princess ask her to go and bring her a dress and wigs colored black and sliver white.

 

"Are you sure this is going to work?" The princess ask Elle.

 

"Don't worry this is just so you can escape the palace for a while and experience a normal life outside" Elle said to her,"You look like your about to collapse anytime and break down, so a little rebellious act will be helpful" She told her and  gave her a wink.

 

They just both laugh and then began dressing up and wear each other disguise. Both of them can't believe the resemblance of their faces and their look at glance. "I can't believe it at as well but I guess no one could tell as a part if we look like this" The princess muttered.

 

"This might actually work!" The princess told her excitedly and then hold Elle's hands together."Thank you for this" She said and gave her a smile.

 

Elle was taken a back on the princess action "Y...You don't have to thank me, Its for my benefit as well!" she shouted, embarrassed by the way the princess act in front of her.

 

Deep inside Elle thought that by disguising her self as the princess, eventually she might see Kai often and be able to help him in some ways, if she stay beside his enemy.

 

Black Shadow

"They finally entered Hellas city front gate" Maria muttered as he look the horse-drawn carriage arrives in the city. The large yellow and blue flags flapped against the harsh wind, bearing the image of a Lion, The Kingdom of Arias symbol."But why a person with such importance would only bring less than twenty men with him?" Maria look farther to behind to see if there will be incoming carriage, but it was just really these batch that enters the city.

 

Maria then slip through the crowd who are watching the carriage as it enters the city.This time Kai didn't disguise himself as a woman but instead wear a black suit and a cloak. "I can't even imagine what would happen if someone attacks him while in Hellas" Kai thought as he follow the carriage secretly."Tsk!That lay back general, he always made me do the hard work!" Kai cluck his tongue and then move faster to enter the forest first before the prince carriage.

 

"I surveyed this area yesterday so it should be safe for the prince carriage to enter this area now" Kai muttered as he hide himself behind a tree and watch the horse-drawn carriage enter the woods. He kneels down and then carefully watch if someone is following the carriage aside from him. "The Hellas castle is still far away from here and would take another eight hours for them to get there with this pace, so if an assassin will attack, most likely the place will be here in these forest!"

 

Kai put a black mask, covering his mouth with his eyes only visible then tried to move closer, making sure that the prince men wouldn't notice his presence and then he run faster to the forest end making sure that the path where the carriage will go are clear from any assassins and enemy that might be waiting.

 

He move swiftly within the forest making sure that he won't missed a spot where an enemy could be hiding. Suddenly Kai heard something zip through the air and felt a sharp pain on his left cheek. Just a few meters away he saw an arrow stuck on a tree in front of him. He immediately draw his dagger then turn his head back and try to see who shot the arrow.

 

Shit! Kai looked around but was not able to see who shot the arrow. He tighten his grip on his dagger and then move slowly while trying to feel any presence of life with killing intent. "I should find them before the prince carriage arrives here" Kai muttered and then advance to find the man who shot the arrow and if there are more than one assassin who was just hiding somewhere.

 

"Who are you?" Kai felt the tip of the blade pointed at his back and raised his both of hands then turn around to see who came on him from behind. Kai gasp upon seeing a man wearing a white formal attire with two of his men beside him. Without seeing the prince of Arias himself, he knew that this man was Prince Rene or also known as General Rene.

 

"I am not a suspicious person" Kai said to the man who was pointing the blade at him but he suddenly pushes him and then throw his dagger on one of the men that was with Prince Rene. The man was holding a knife and was about to attack the prince when Kai noticed and killed him first for him.

 

"What is this all about?!" The prince shouted but before Kai could explain he grimed on the presence of fifty to sixty men approaching from behind. "RUN!" Kai grabbed the Prince arm to pull him away and then pulled his sword out. "I wasn't expecting this many will come after him" Kai hissed and his right hand twitch upon seeing one of the assailant running towards them with his sword up.

 

A surprised gasp escape the first assailant lips as Kai's blade plunged into his throat. Kai tighten his grip on his sword as he felt a movement from his side. He leaned back just in time, feeling a light swish of air as another blade passed, narrowly missing his face again. He twist his wrist and thrust his sword on the other assailant on the same time. Kai continued to move fluidly as he cut the incoming assailants without even flinching from the pool of blood that splatters.

 

Kai never paused, as he cut and thrust his sword on any silhouette his eyes sees. Kai tried to forget the fact that there are too many of them that's coming into them. Fortunately, the Prince men was able to catch on them and help Kai in protecting the prince. Kai sees these as an opportunity and grabbed the prince hands and run away with him.

 

"What's going on, who are you?" The prince with bewildered face ask Kai while they are running.

 

Kai glares back at him, panting hard "Just shut up for a while, I'm busy here trying to protect you!" Kai shouted at him.

 

The hood on the cloak Kai's wearing came down letting his long red hair tied up shows. His hair flows against the wind as they run away. The prince for a moment was stunned while looking at the back of this person who's trying his best to protect him. " Are you perhaps a woman?" The prince ask him but Kai was too tired and busy checking the path for an enemy presence to even bother answering his question.

 

"Good thing I have surveyed these area yesterday and secured escape routes" Kai thought to himself as he guide the prince, who just silently follow him. 

 

"Here, please mount on these horse and get out from these forest" Kai stopped and showed him the horse he had tied and left there yesterday just in case on one of the escape route he had secured.

 

The Prince stares at him for a while and then stand still, " What about you?" He ask him, concerned on how his savior will escape if he was to left him alone with the possibility of the other assailants that's on the way now to them as well.

 

"Don't worry about me, I have secured another escape route for me, it will be harder for me to fight with somebody I need to worry protecting first" Kai told him and then help the prince mount on the horse.

 

"Fine, I'll go ahead and ask help on the next village" The prince taking his hands on the reins, give a light click and then gallops away from the scene, leaving Kai behind.

 

"Another escape route my ass, this is the only escape route I was able to secure for such short time!" Kai let out a big sigh and then pulled away another sword, making him holding now two swords at his hand. " I need to inform General Shin somehow about these dark shadows lurking around the black snow prince" Kai muttered.

 

Kai prepared himself as he waited for the assailants that will come anytime soon. He didn't even flinch as he saw more than twenty men who was able to find the place where he is right now. Kai planned to be left behind in order to make sure that no one will follow the prince who escape first.

 

He slowly breathe out an air and then move quickly towards the enemies. The assailant can barely follow him and his swords movement as it cut through them effortless. He continued to move fluidly, ripping their blade free from their hands. Kai never stop from moving his swords and successfully found its mark and cut them without an error.

 

"W-What the hell are you!" The remaining assailants move away from him with their hands trembling in fear.

 

"Just think yourself unluckily meeting the god of misfortune, Maria!" Kai smirked and then lean towards the remaining assailant and cut through them one by one.

 

Kai silently cleaned his blades before returning them into their sheathes. He then look around and search for any sign of life from the pile of corpse that surround him. Kai didn't even flinch from the pool of blood that he is seeing.

 

"I guess these are all of them" Kai left an audible sigh of relief and then finally relaxed his shoulders. 

Ghost of Red Rose (Editing)

"Sir, are you hurt anywhere!" My personal guard and friend, Victor with such worried face came on me hurriedly. Shaking my head I assured him I am not hurt anywhere, Thanks to my men and that long red haired person who saved me. "Prince Rene this is an insult to you and our kingdom! How dare them to try and kill you amidst of your good faith when you decided to come here in Hellas!" He clench and grit his teeth as he look at the face of the soldiers from Hellas who was waiting as well on my arrival.

"We apologize for what happened" One of the captains bows his head before me.

I pat his shoulder and ask him to raise his head, "Its fine, things like this are to be expected and it was careless of me to nonchalantly parade myself like that, tempting an enemy to come at me."

 "We promise to investigate and punish all of those who were involved in the plan to kill you." The captain with his men then ask me to rest first in the Inn they have prepared before we go the Hellas palace.

"I want be left alone first" I told Victor who insisted to stay close at me.

"But Sir, y-" I cut him off before he could start his long argument with me. "I'm fine so you can all wait outside" I ordered him and he finally gave up and left me alone.

"I should not have left that person" I muttered and then breathe out a heavy sigh.

"Just like what I thought, it’s better if I stayed and fight with you, stranger!"  I know that I might be just a burden for him and I know that I'm the one they were after but still, I can't just leave one man against who knows how many of those assassin were left and coming now.

But instead that person chuckled and looks straight in my eyes, unwavering "Don't worry about me, I rather stay here and made sure that you're safe than to see that man face with his condescending look if I failed to protect you...so go now!" That's what that person with a long red hair told me, confidently before we part our ways.

"That person's eyes show no fear at all, I can't believe there's somebody who would risk their life for a stranger" My head is full of thoughts about that person who saved me. I know this is not the time to be thinking such unnecessary things but I can't help myself be curious on that person. 

I was stunned while watching that person fleeting red hair as that person move fluidly against those men who came after me. That person eyes were starving, as if it was craving for more blood coming from those men. This is the first time I felt this way.

 "I must be tired" I sighed. Suddenly someone knocks at my door and advice to get ready and they will escort me now to the palace.

As I walk out of the Inn, I saw these men lined up with a wary and eyes sneaking a look at me with such obvious malice that are still with them. I can't blame them yesterday our throats were against each other and suddenly talk about an alliance was brought out of nowhere. Only few men know the real reason of the alliance and I wouldn't be surprised if someone tried to assassinate me on this place.

But my guts are telling me that someone, who is not from Hellas, planned all of this. My instincts never failed me. "It must be them" I muttered and clenched my fist.

General Rene! Victor who was panting while hurriedly coming over to me called in, “I was not able to see that red haired person and the only ones left there were those assailants’ dead bodies, which I requested to be sent and investigated.” He whispered.

“Is that so?” I sighed, “Thank you for the good work, Victor” I place my hand on his shoulder and tap it softly. It was unfortunate but I guess it will be hard to look for that person now.

I step in the carriage that they prepared for me and silently watch the scenery as we pass by the streets. Victor who relentlessly complaint on what happened was sitting in front of me and argued that I shouldn’t come here personally. Even though his voice was so loud that it can be heard even outside, I was too tired to even try understanding any words he is saying to me right now.

Suddenly I felt the carriage stop, “Sir we are here now” said by my page, it took us some time to get in the palace because the roads were full of spectators who are watching. My visit literally became a parade which I was trying to avoid but I can’t help it now.

 

 

http://www.helenmarylabao.com/tag/how-to-change-your-name-in-the-philippines/

 

https://bpo.cognizant.com/is/hr/hmo

 

 

 

 

 

Imprint

Text: The Author
Images: All rights reserve to the Copyright holder of the images used in this book
Editing: The Author
Translation: The Author
Publication Date: 12-19-2015

All Rights Reserved

Dedication:
This book is dedicated to my friends, family and all young writers like me >_