Chapter 4

CHAPTER 4

I pass through the thick, sludgy brown fields, my only good pair of black boots now drenched in mud, and head toward the stables.

The fairly large-sized wooden structure is held up partially by its extra supported wooden beams, added by Ryuu himself, but mostly by sheer luck and hope. Hope that it will not fall apart at its seams due to rot and old age.

Once inside, I look around to find all seven stables are occupied. The horses all belong to the Caligo guards who are stationed near this side of the kingdom and wall.

My smile stretches across my face when I spot an old friend.

Blaze.

Walking up to the colossal dark horse, I take slow, measured steps. Though we are both old friends, her tricky temperament assures unwelcome visitors a swift punishment. Her glossy black fur shines even in the darkest of rooms, making the other horses pale in comparison.

"Hello, old friend," I whisper.

Blaze hesitantly steps forward, her nostrils flared. "It's just me, girl." Stepping closer to her, I slow my movements further and reach a hand out. She shakes her long dark mane before stepping closer, sniffing my hand and nudging it, looking for any treats.

I chuckle, pleased that she remembers our little secret, and rub a hand over her silky mane as I move closer to her.

"Not today, girl. I didn't realize you'd be here."

Blaze had become a prominent addition to the guard's arsenal once they realized her potential. Her raw power and strength surpassed the other horses, making her stand out. But it was her lack of fear when near the walls closest to the dark forest that made the guards choose her over the rest.

What once was a sickly young filly, ignored and thought of as nothing but a waste, is now the leader of her herd and paramount to the guard's duties.

Our training together ensured her place among the guards, and in return, I found a long-lasting friendship, now bound through years of merciless practice and preparation. Our determination and unyielding spirits gave way for a better path for her future while also giving me hope for mine.

"Tomorrow, I promise."

I lean my forehead against hers, closing my eyes, and soak up the serenity and calm of being around these beautiful beasts.

I'm so absorbed in the tranquility that I almost miss the thud of boots across the dirt floors as someone enters the stables. My body grows stiff as I wait to see who it is.

"Ah, there she is, my favorite mulch partner."

My tense body relaxes hearing Jarek's jovial voice.

Jarek has a soft roguish look that many fall for. His soldier's build and light blue eyes are the cause of many brawls. "How is the beautiful Ren today? Break any hearts yet?"

I roll my eyes at his bestowed childhood nickname.

"Physically, you mean?" With there being more important things to think about, I'm not interested in fooling around. "Not yet, but the day is still young."

Jarek's deep chuckle echoes off the stable walls. "I, for one, cannot wait to see the day you finally meet your match."

I doubt that day will ever come.

"I prefer the company of these beasts over foolish boys."

He dips his head, agreeing. "Of course you would. But how about we get you a nice guy to have some fun with? Might help you loosen up a bit."

I narrow my eyes at his idiotic idea. Most guys my age are either settling down or full of stupidity. I need neither the companionship nor the melodrama that comes along with such an arrangement.

Jarek sighs loudly, glancing over at me. "It is a pity."

"What is?" I frown, hesitant to hear where he is going with this, knowing from experience it could be anything.

"That we could never be matched." He exaggerates a sigh, shaking his head. "You and I, we could have been amazing."

I grin at his jesting. "Is that so?"

He nods his head, a serious expression on his face. "If only I were swayed by your beauty alone." A smile full of mischievousness lights up his face. "Alas, I require a certain… instrument the female variety do not possess."

Jarek's perpetual wit and whimsy is one of the things I love most about him. He sees the world around him in shades of color instead of the drab monochrome it usually is.

"Apart from me not being able to fulfill your physical needs, you aren't my type anyway. Too high maintenance for me to even attempt to keep up with," I tease with a smirk.

He grabs his chest in a mock blow. "Downright merciless, that's what you are."

My replying chuckle and grin are wicked. "You wouldn't have me any other way."

A genuine smile crosses his face, one he only shares with close family and friends. "Not even a little."

Tilting his head, he casts a brief eye around the stables. "What did you do to irritate the captain today?"

"Apart from existing, you mean?" The captain likes to think of me as one of his soldiers until he is dissatisfied with something I do, and then I am nothing more than an inconvenience. "I was late."

Jarek chuckles, shaking his head. "He should know by now what you're like. When are you ever on time?"

"When I'm required to be." At least I'd like to think so, but life seems to have a way of placing obstacles along the way. "Also, when the situation is dire, and training is neither."

"I'd have to agree with you on that. The amount of training you do should be outlawed."

His statement causes me to frown. "Everyone should know how to wield a blade and protect themselves."

"I agree, but not to the extent of your proficiency, nor the amount of time you spend at it." Jarek chuckles, jostling my shoulder. "Some of us like to do more than just exist in this world. We want to live in it too. Remember that, Ren. There is more to life than fighting."

Unless fighting is the only way to live.

I look back at him, seeing a light in his eyes that is usually dimmed by the weight of his responsibilities. "What has you in such a cheerful mood?"

His eyes are wide when he gives me a strange smile. "I didn't realize I had to have a reason to be happy."

"You don't, but you just seem… lighter. I want to know the cause." Moments of happiness should never be taken for granted, especially when of late, they're hard to come by.

Jarek shrugs as if his behavior is an everyday occurrence. Which I know for a fact, it's not. His life has been far from easy. From losing his mother at such a young age to then having to grow up quickly and provide for himself and his father. A father that is now a lost shell of a man who retreated from the world once his wife was gone.

"Today is a good day. We are all alive. There were no dark creature attacks last night, and things are looking up. I, for one, would not disregard the small gift of reprieve and hope it means something good for us all."

I face Blaze, hoping Jarek can't see the guilt on my face. The attacks have not stopped, instead getting worse with more creatures getting past the shield and wall. A reprieve will not be coming anytime soon, with the ominous stench of something malevolent on the way.

I push down the guilt and send him a small smile. There was no point in destroying his frail moment of peace, not when he looks so happy. I will just have to work hard to figure a way to make sure he and this kingdom are kept safe and, in turn, try to preserve his slight reprieve and hope.

He clears his throat, giving me a shy look. "That, and I met someone."

He mumbles it so softly I barely catch the words. They send a bolt of relief throughout me, moving away from the subject of dark creatures and my omission of the truth.

"Of course you did. What is his name and when am I meeting him?"

Jarek scoffs, waving a hand in front of me. "So you can frighten him off with your insane warrior skills or turn him to your favor with your striking beauty? I think not."

Although playful, his tone and the slight shift in his normally rested demeanor make me wonder what has him anxious.

"Is everything okay?"

"Of course. You know me, I'm always fine." His grin is brittle, and his far-off look causes me to doubt his words, which makes me want to push him on this. But I know it will get me nowhere until he's ready to tell me.

He must see the worry mirrored on my face, as his smile turns warm. "Don't worry, you'll meet him soon enough."

"I better," I warn him, but I tack on a smile so he knows I'm not being completely serious. Only just mostly.

Jarek chuckles, giving me a knowing look. "I overheard the guard's competition this year is being held in the palace grounds."

I quirk a brow at his quick change of subject. "And you're telling me this for what reason?"

A playful glint enters his eyes. "Not only do you get to see the palace up close but you also get to meet those secretive royals too."

I have no intention of ever joining the Caligo guards and their army, nor do I care for meeting any of the royals that continue to have such bias toward the Sidus.

Jarek narrows his eyes. "I imagine them to be hideous to have hidden away for so long. I can't fathom why else they would not show themselves."

Blaze nudges me, seeking attention. I chuckle, rubbing my hand along her soft face.

"Maybe they see us beneath them and nothing more. Maybe they prefer to stay with their Caligo up in the mountains, where everything is clean and gold and bright."

"Maybe…" That far-off look returns to his eyes once more, making me frown.

"Why does any of this matter? You have never cared for any of the other competitions." They are held each year, each one the same as the last. And the Caligo use every single one of them to make sure the Sidus know just how powerful and brutal they are, should we ever try to defy them. Them choosing to close it off and have it in the palace grounds is a small mercy we will be granted.

Being forced to watch it every year is not something I ever look forward to.

A sliver of light returns to his eyes as he focuses his attention solely on me.

"Well… none of them have ever been in the palace, nor has there been a little… incentive involved."

"An incentive?" I ask.

"Think about it, Ren. With your skill and abilities, you would win it without breaking a sweat."

"You're forgetting the part where I don't care for meeting the royals, nor do I ever want to join the Caligo guards."

"Yes, but?—"

"Jarek. Is there something wrong?" I frown, wondering if there is something more to this. "Have your rationings gone?" If he was without food, I would make sure to find him some.

"No. No, nothing like that. I just thought it would be nice for you to show those Caligo guards how useless they really are, and should you end up with some winnings— that you would love to share with your favorite friend —why not give it a chance?"

I shake my head at him, the worry quickly slipping from me. "We don't need to prove just how useless they are; they do that all by themselves."

Jarek sighs but nods his head, dropping it, knowing I will not give into this with my stubborn nature.

"Come on, I'll give you a hand." He turns around, heading toward the small rack of shovels.

"And here I thought it was I who was giving you a hand." One of the many jobs Jarek has is helping the stable hand when there are more than a couple of horses present. Being that there are over half a dozen, his presence is definitely required.

Jarek scoffs. "Let's not concern ourselves with the technical details. I'm here to save the day, as usual. You can just say thank you, and we can move along swiftly."

Giving Blaze one last rub and promising her I'll be back tomorrow with her treat, I follow after Jarek, chuckling.

"I'm still waiting on that thanks," he calls out, leaning against the tool rack, his arms crossed in mock protest.

"You might be waiting a while," I tell him, passing him a shovel and pushing him toward the pile of horse manure.

His roaring laughter rings out around us, filling me with warmth and easing the heaviness from my chest.

I play the part of a hawk, observing the people below me from the rooftop of one of the highest buildings in the Sidus town. The dark, deserted chapel still stands tall and towers over most buildings, granting me the concealment I need to keep watch.

Along with the dark cover of night, my black armor and cloak help me blend into my surroundings, becoming part of the chapel itself. Though the only way I would truly stand out is if I were to wear colorful or bright clothing. The Sidus have access to neither and end up wearing dark, muted tones that ensure we blend in.

From this height, I can see most of the town and its people, helping me ensure their safety.

It's not only the dark creatures the Sidus have to worry about. Some Caligo guards take advantage of their position and power and often need a reminder that the Sidus are not the only ones who are being watched.

This past year, I have taken on the role of sentry over the guards. No longer able to wait for permission from my mother to help join them in their fight against the dark creatures, I needed to do something. Seeing firsthand some of the disciplines the guards handed out for the simplest misdemeanor made my choice for me. I could no longer sit by and watch a Sidus child struck for asking a simple question or hear the aftermath of a Caligo guard taking liberties with Sidus women and men.

So far, no word has been carried back about a hooded vigilante helping the people of Findias. After all, the guards would have to admit their vile behavior or tell their superior how they ended up in such a position in the first place, conceding that they were weaker than their attacker. A confession no Caligo guard would be willing to reveal.

For now, my secret remains just that.

It wasn't until recently, when I came across a young girl grieving the loss of both her parents from a dark creature, that I was impelled to pursue them as well.

My nightly duties, though, are still a priority as I continue watching the guards spread out across this side of the kingdom. Some walk about, taking their jobs seriously, leaving the Sidus be, while others gossip like old crones, getting drunk on expensive wines. They mull about the town, finding unsuspecting victims for the night, thinking no one will bother them if they have some fun.

So, I listen and watch and wait. Ready to take action if needed but always hoping that it will not be the case. I know fighting amongst ourselves will not solve the bigger threat coming, nor will it justify killing.

Those who only ever see a battle overlook the war upon the horizon.

A shout comes from below, shaking me from my wayward thoughts. I use my shadowing and jump from taller to lower rooftops to reach the source of noise. Coming closer, I see three Caligo guards blocking the entrance to the small alley. A man is injured on the ground while another guard shouts above him.

"Please, don't hurt me. I don't have it. Please, just leave me be. I beg of you."

I glance around, finding a small alcove that will suit my needs.

Most Caligo are limited in what they can do with their shadow abilities, and although not as limited as a Sidus, the guards favor sticking together to combine their powers. To pass through the void to move to places farther away takes at least a half a dozen Caligo joining together.

I have no such restrictions, with my powers sometimes feeling unending. My unique differences would draw attention, even for a lowly vigilante. I need to be clever when choosing my battles and only reveal what is necessary.

"Hand it over now. We know it is in your possession." The guard's tone is full of violence as he raises his hand, forming a baton made from his own shadows, ready to strike.

I jump down, entering the void before making sure my hood is in place, and pull the dark cloth up over most of my face before emerging in the shadows beneath the alcove.

Stepping out of the darkness, I glance down at the man about to collide with the guard's weapon.

The guard pauses his attack, seeing me. "What the?—"

I move swiftly, pushing my shadows toward him. They bellow out of me in puffs of black smoke, blasting the guard back against the wall. He slides down to the ground, collapsing from the force of the impact.

Feeling movement from behind, I duck, avoiding the shadowed blade directed at the back of my head, and twist around, catching sight of the three guards advancing, their powers at hand.

I unsheathe my daggers, stepping in front of the injured man. Using shadowed blades doesn't last long, and although they are efficient and useful when needed, I prefer the feel of hard steel in my hand and the control it gives me.

"Get him," one of the guards grits out.

I block a guard coming at my left, using the blunt end of my dagger to the side of his head. He crumples to the ground just as black smoke circles me, trying to cage me in. It draws closer, surrounding me like the rising waves of a dark ocean.

Before it closes over me, I see the two guards as they join hands, both wearing smug looks as they combine their powers for an attack, hoping to snare and suffocate.

Instead of fearing the darkness, I embrace the familiar power and step through the guards' tenebrous trap. A rush of power slides through me, brushing against my heightened senses and alighting every nerve in my body.

Coming clear of the shadows, I'm greeted by mirrored looks of shock.

"How did you?—"

"What are?—"

I don't give the guards a chance to finish their inquiry, and use their own trick against them. I watch as my own power swirls and coils around them before encasing them whole. Connecting to my power, I feel their life force like small embers in a flame as they slowly ebb away. Just before they dim completely, I pull back, revealing their slumped forms.

In a way, it is easier fighting the dark creatures. I don't have to hold back for fear of killing them. I can let go, embracing the dark side of myself that I know we all carry deep within us. We are not wholly good nor evil but flawed as all mortal creatures are. But I am also not a god and will not kill without cause. Their judgment will come when it is their time to enter the Otherworld.

Turning around, I drop to the man's side, noticing the river of blood around him, quickly realizing we don't have long before death calls to him.

"Thank you." The man's voice is but a whisper.

I find the source of his wound, a thick gash at his side. Tearing some cloth from my cloak, I use a hand to staunch the bleeding, trying to halt any further blood loss before I can get him help.

He reaches a hand out toward me, and I grab it with my free hand, thinking he needs some comfort and reassurance, but the look in his eyes tells me different.

"We must find you a healer," I tell him—and quickly, by the looks of it. The black cloth is already drenched with blood. I'm about to call on my shadows and bring him to safety, damn the consequences, when his plea makes me hesitate.

"My pocket." His pallor is gray and each breath he takes is labored.

"I need to get you to a healer; you won't last much longer?—"

"I do not fear death. I know it is my time."

I shake my head at him, pleading with him to trust me. "I can get you to someone. Just hold on."

" Please ." His voice is insistent yet weak. "My pocket." His eyes beg me, moving me forward.

I reach into his pocket and pull out a pulsing white orb the size of a fist. Its power draws me in, calling out to me.

"Forgive me, but they must never have it. It will destroy everything." The remorse in his voice shakes me out of the strange spell the orb has over me. I open my mouth to ask him to explain what he means, when the pulsing orb's light expands out around us.

"You must never allow them to get hold of it," he whispers.

I try to drop the orb, but it clings to me like a second skin before continuing to expand its light. The light intensifies until it's all I can see, the bright flare engulfing everything, causing me momentary blindness before it starts to recede.

I glance down, no longer seeing an orb but a glimmer of brightness. Almost like a piece of a star, its luminous shine so delicate yet alluring.

The illuminated sphere sends out one last small pulse of light before it flickers, shrinking inward and melding with my hand. I try to shake it away, but it does no good. It continues its process until no outward light can be seen.

A flicker pulses under my skin. Once. Twice. Before it disappears completely.

"Protect it." A weak, soft voice draws me back to the man just as the light leaves his eyes.

"No," I call out, hoping it is not his end even though I see the truth right in front of me.

"Damn it." Releasing a harsh sigh, I reach over and brush my fingers down his eyes, closing them for the last time.

My hair falls free as I bow my head and pray to the Gods that they grant this man a safe passage to the Otherworld.

"Farewell. May we meet again one day." I move back, waiting for the inevitable. A minute passes before the man's body begins the final stages of life. His body begins to shudder and shake before it lifts into the air like a weightless feather floating softly. Small shimmers begin to cover his whole body, turning it into a constellation of twinkling stars. They hover there for a moment before bursting high up into the sky and dissolving into sparkling dust.

"May the light guide you, the darkness lead you, and the night welcome you a safe passage home."

I look down at my hand, seeing or feeling nothing unusual and wondering if I should be worried of any lingering effects.

A rattle startles me out of my somber mood, back to the present. Pulling my hood back in place, I check around for any prying eyes.

Finding no one but the unconscious Caligo guards, I join the darkness once more.