SYNOPSIS

SYNOPSIS

Consumed by avarice, the four human kingdoms—the Infernal Empire, the Kingdom of Caelum, the Kingdom of Treterra, and the Nayale Archipelago—betrayed their covenant with Yther of Azitera, the race blessed by deities, who protected humans for untold centuries. They slaughtered and defiled the beings that once protected them from storm, famine, poverty, and pestilence without mercy.

Betrayed by the humans they protected, the Ytherians were enslaved. Their four queens were caged, chained, and imprisoned to serve as nutrients to the human kingdoms. The once prominent Ytherians were reduced to nothing but servants.

As the four kingdoms of the human race prospered for many years since their betrayal, one news staggered them, causing them to tremble in fear and rally their armies to protect and defend their domain: Sollel—the Mistress of Flame, one of Yther’s queens—had escaped her prison. Her flames will raze hell, ready to burn the souls of her betrayers.

[ BOOK 1 OF AZITERA: YTHER’S QUEEN ]

CECELIB | C.C.

SOLLEL

SOLLEL, The Mistress of flame

I commissioned Majuuri to make this, together with the other Yther’s Queens. This is how I see Sollel. And for those who are asking, yes, this is a series (Still no series name since I can’t think of one) Feel free to suggest a series name.

After Sollel, it’ll be Gatria, then Aenwyn and Astrid. I already have a temporary title for their story, but I might change it before posting it here on Wattpad.

This is my first time writing Fantasy and I find it very hard and challenging, but I’m also having a lot of fun. Thank you for supporting me still and indulging me to write this genre. Thank you for letting me explore other genres. From erotic and sexy romance, to action, to BL and now fantasy. It means a lot to me.

Thank you so much, CCBells.

CECELIB | C.C.

AZITERA MAP

I made this map to give you a visual of Azitera and it’ll be edited along the way, adding more towns, cities and other stuff.

For clear view, I attached the photo on the top. Hope you like the map 🥰

CECELIB | C.C.

PROLOGUE

PROLOGUE

INFERNAL EMPIRE, CITY OF FABERION

AT THE bottom of the Infernal Empire, in the city of Faberion, known as the city of forging and impenetrable stronghold, was a prison made of moonrite—a rare mineral used to weaken a being blessed by deities. Inside the moonrite prison, at the center, was a pale woman chained to the wall.

She was kneeling, legs spread apart, her head hanging low. Her hands were pulled up by shackles and chains made from moonrite, which were connected to the prison’s ceilings and walls, exposing the woman’s body as if she were an exhibit. Her once vibrant long red hair had lost its color and had become dull and lifeless, almost dark red. Her knees were scrapped and skinned, wrists bruised from her handcuffs. Wounds, cuts, and dirt covered her whole body, scabs now visible because of the many years of torture, especially on her arms. Her clothes were worn-out, unable to cover her whole body.

Inside the prison, around the woman’s immobile body, was dried and fresh blood from her skinned wrists, knees, and ankles. The smell of blood and rotting flesh lingered in the air, warning the guards who were about to enter the cell to cover their noses and mouths.

The woman inside the moonrite prison stirred awake even in her weakened state when she heard footsteps coming toward her cell. She wanted to raise her head and check who it was, but she couldn’t. She was too weak to move, too weak to fight, and too weak to struggle.

She could only kneel and await a blade to cut her flesh and make her bleed. This was nothing new to her, as it had been done to her so many times that she already lost count. So when she felt a sharp object penetrating her arms and cutting her flesh, she did not feel pain. She was already numb.

No torture or cutting of her flesh could make her flinch. No amount of pain could make her cry and beg. No amount of physical pain could make her move and react. She would never let these scums see her weeping and begging. No words could describe her pain and suffering during these untold years, and the only thing they deserve was her rage.

But even after she failed countless attempts to escape, the fire inside her was still burning, and her thirst for vengeance couldn’t be extinguished. As weak as she was now, she still hadn’t given up.

Up until that moment, she could still hear the screams of pain and terror of her people. She could still hear their pleas. She had never forgotten how they were betrayed by the people they protected and trusted. She promised to herself that one day, she would leave this prison and burn everyone who deceived their race. And she swore that she would return the pain and terror tenfold.

“Is this enough?” one of the two men who entered the cell asked his companion. He was referring to the blood from the prisoner filling the large bowl.

“Make another cut,” his companion, a forging master, answered decisively with a gruff voice. “We have a new batch of weapons to forge. We need more blood.”

The other man nodded and continued cutting the woman’s flesh as if it were animal’s meat. He was used to this. He had been doing this for a decade as the head guard of the prison. Like the person next to him, they had been working for the Infernal Empire for a long time that they had been entrusted with a secret of the moonrite chamber—this prison cell. Only a handful of the empire’s officials knew who was inside this prison and her importance.

It had been more than a century since the woman was captured, and everyone had forgotten about her. She was nothing but a myth, a story mothers tells their children before bedtime.

“It’s been so many years, but she’s still nourishing the empire,” the man said, sounding impressed.

The man with a gruff voice answered, “That’s her purpose. She should be thankful that she’s still useful, or else, she’ll be executed like those Ytherian scums.”

The man waiting for the bowl to be filled with blood smiled. “That’s true,” he replied before looking at the immobile woman. “That’s why you should pray that you remain useful, or else you’ll be executed once you become a trash. Do you understand?”

“Don’t bother talking to her,” said the man with a gruff voice, disdainfully. It was clear that he hated the existence of the woman. “I was told that this woman hasn’t spoken a word since her capture. She deserves this and more. If only her blood was not useful, I would’ve lashed her to death for even daring to hurt us humans. It was them who dared invade our lands. Only fitting to treat them like cows!” And in anger, he flew his fist to the woman’s head, punching the woman several times until he was satisfied.

The woman felt the punches but remained silent and immobile. Her head remained low, her eyes closed, until the two men finished stealing her blood.

The words and insults she had heard was nothing new. It was Yther that had been betrayed, but the story was twisted. The kings of the four kingdoms made the whole Azitera believe that it was the Ytherians who invaded the human lands when it was actually the opposite, but she was not surprised when she first learned about it. They had the audacity to betray them . . . what’s stopping them from twisting the story to suit their convenience?

The winners were kings and the losers were bandits after all.

Alone in her moonrite prison again, she once again remembered how they were deceived and betrayed by the humans they trusted and protected. Her fury made her blood boil. If not for the moonrite chains and shackles that could weaken her, she would’ve slaughtered and burned every human she could find.

The vengeance in her heart couldn’t be put out. It was burning, screaming, just waiting to be unleashed.

They will burn! I will burn them all! The woman swore with her life as she reminisced the unforgettable past. The past that still haunted her.

As her anger consumed every fiber of her being, she heard another set of footsteps coming to her prison, halting her thoughts.

These footsteps were different from the previous ones.

The woman immediately concluded that this person was a new visitor. Maybe a member of the royal family since some often come to see her like she was a part of an exhibit. That’s all they could do after all. Her blood was precious to them, so they couldn’t lash her and beat her up to death to show their supremacy. Neither could they molest nor defile her because her body was boiling inside, as if it was protecting her. Whoever dared to enter her without her consent would die and turn into a pile of charcoal, starting from their lower region.

But to the woman’s surprise, she didn’t hear a key opening her prison. Instead, there was a loud sound, like someone was destroying her prison’s door with force.

However, she was too weak to look up and see what was really happening. Too weak to lift her head to see the person wrecking her prison cell.

And finally, after two earsplitting sounds from the door, it swung open. Then, the person who destroyed the door walked in.

The woman was too feeble to move her body that all she could do was listen and observe. Seconds after the door broke, she heard another movement. A loud bang echoed inside the prison, like a sword colliding with crystal chains and shackles. The impact caused her body to sway.

But even with the loud sound echoing throughout the whole chamber, no one came to stop her visitor from destroying the moonrite prison that the Infernal Empire was so proud of. Who would come anyway? The chamber guards had already died from the hands of this person.

The woman didn’t know if these were hallucinations caused by being too weakened for countless years, but she felt her wrists and ankles were being freed from the moonrite shackles. Her whole body seemed to fall, but before she dropped to the ground, a strong set of arms caught her waist. She heard a soft murmur . . .

“I finally found you, Sollel.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 1

EMPEROR Gabrien Faberion’s harmonious and peaceful breakfast in the empire’s garden was ruined by the news reported to him by General Adri, one of the empire’s war overlords. The news came from Baron Arnott, the overseer of the moonrite prison.

“Sollel, one of Yther’s queens, the Mistress of Flame, has escaped her moonrite prison.”

When the emperor heard the news, his hand that was holding the cup of tea trembled in anger.

“Imbeciles!” He angrily threw the cup of tea on the general’s leather boots. The cup broke and scattered, but no one moved to pick it up, afraid of the emperor’s anger to fall on them.

The emperor, known for his vicious temper, screamed, “Search all the land and drag that woman back to prison! I will not let that harlot or any of you sully my name! For two generations, that woman is our prisoner, and I will not let her escape. Not in my reign, do you hear me?!”

The general who was kneeling on one knee and looking at the ground nodded. “Yes, Your Highness.”

Calming himself so he could think of a better plan to drag that woman back to prison, Emperor Gabrien took a deep breath while his lips were twitching in anger. “How did she escape? That prison is made of moonrite—their weakness. And from the report I received, that woman was weak and immobile. How come she could escape that prison?”

General Adri answered with a low voice, hoping that his answer wouldn’t anger the emperor more. “We believe that someone helped her.”

“A traitor?!”

“We believe so, Your Highness,” said General Adri. “All the guards in the moonrite chamber had been killed. No one was left alive. And the door to the prison was destroyed.”

The emperor couldn’t help his surprise while anger still boiled inside him. “The moonrite chamber has a hundred guards! Who could kill them all?! We have the strongest weapons, an impenetrable stronghold!”

“We do not know, Your Highness.” General Adri was scared to say the words I don’t know in front of the emperor, but there were really no words to explain what happened. “As of now, we are investigating and looking for the traitor and the woman. We believe that they are together.”

“And?”

“Still no report, Your Highness.”

In a fit of anger, the emperor’s plate made of porcelain was smashed in the general’s head, but the general did not even flinch. “Useless fools! Without the moonrite, that woman is powerful! Make sure to find her while she’s still weak, or I will have your head together with the baron’s!”

The general’s head remained low. “Yes, Your Highness.”

Letting out an angry breath, the emperor ordered, “Alert the imperial army on every station all throughout the empire to be ready, just in case that mad woman appears. Tell them to ready a moonrite weapon to subdue her. No one is allowed to kill her. Just weaken her.” Emperor Gabrien knew how important that woman’s blood and presence to the empire were. He couldn’t afford to lose her. Not while he’s the emperor.

“Yes, Your Highness.”

“Leave and don’t come back without that woman!”

General Adri lowered his head even more before he got up to leave the garden. On the other hand, the emperor had already lost his appetite and couldn’t even take a single bite of his breakfast.

“Sollel, the Mistress of Flame,” Emperor Gabrien whispered. His voice trembled for a moment when he remembered how his father warned him about her. Fear consumed him for a second before he discarded it. “What can that woman do? She’s nothing now but a slave to the royal family—my slave.”

The Infernal Empire and its citizens were very proud of their indestructible weapons; they had been the leading kingdom when it came to forging such tools. The emperor did not want to admit or believe it, but his father and grandfather treasured Sollel, the Mistress of Flame—the reason she was captured instead of executed. Her blood could make any weapon stronger, more powerful, and unbreakable. And not only that—her presence alone could strengthen the kingdom’s defenses, making it impenetrable.

Considering that, it was understandable that the Infernal Empire was the wealthiest of all the four human kingdoms reigning Azitera.

Emperor Gabrien did not fully believe the tales of Yther’s queens. He believed that their weapons were indestructible because they were skilled in making them, not because of some woman’s blood. Maybe because Emperor Gabrien was a third-generation emperor—years since Sollel, the Mistress of Flame, was captured—that he did not believe such tales.

After all, he was just keeping her because the nobility faction would see him as incompetent if she died or escaped during his reign; because just like his father and grandfather, they also believed that the Mistress of Flame was the reason of the empire’s prosperity.

But Emperor Gabrien did not believe that. The empire’s prosperity and wealth was because of him, because of his hard work. Because he was a good emperor. A brilliant leader that even deities would compliment. He would not accept that that woman was the reason. It was because of him. Him and him alone, and not someone else!

Overcome with resentment, Emperor Gabrien threw all the food on the table and even beat up the guard nearest to him to release his anger. And when he finally calmed down, he left the garden, leaving the half-dead guard on the ground.

♕♕♕

“WE HAVE TO KNOW who did this and their location,” said the baron after hearing what General Adri reported to the emperor. “If we couldn’t find her, the emperor will not hesitate to execute us.”

General Adri nodded before looking at the destroyed door to the prison. “Whoever did this is strong and capable.”

“Do you have someone in mind?”

General Adri shook his head. “Only a handful officials knew about the existence of the Mistress of Flame, and all of them could prove their innocence.”

“Maybe a member of their family?”

“We’re still investigating,” said the general. “Based on the information we have accumulated, the Mistress of Flame is already outside the kingdom. We asked the guard’s gate if someone left late last night, and they said a gryphon flew fast the gate, but they didn’t give chase.”

“A gryphon?” The baron was surprised because he knew someone who owned one. “You think it’s him who took the Mistress of Flame?”

General Adri shook his head decisively. “Aside from having no knowledge of the Mistress of Flame, we have a peace treaty with him. The warlord would never break the treaty. He is, after all, the emperor’s nephew. And it was not the first time he flew fast the imperial gate with his gryphon.”

The baron couldn’t help agreeing. “If the Mistress of Flame already left the kingdom, where could she be now?”

“Do not fret, Baron Arnott.” General Adri sounded confident. “I already sent a wanted poster all over the empire, even to the small villages outside. We will find her before she regains her strength, and we will drag her back where she belonged—a nutrient to the empire.”

The baron put his fist on his chest and muttered solemnly, “Long live, Infernal Empire.”

General Adri did the same, more solemn than the baron. “Long live.”

♕♕♕

A HUNDRED kilometers from the City of Faberion, in an apple woodland next to the small village of Mistvale, a woman with dark red hair was lying on a wooden bed inside a shack, her eyes were half-open, and a thick dark red cloak was wrapped around her body.

The woman was Sollel. Alone in the shack, in the apple woodland.

It had been days since she was brought there. The person who took her from prison left her in the run-down shack—alone. She didn’t even see her freer, given how weak she was.

After her freer left, no one entered the shack. She was all alone, which she preferred. She didn’t need food every day to live, so not eating for a whole week since she was freed had no effect on her body. What she’s focused on right now was getting back her strength.

Now that there was no moonrite near her, she’s slowly recovering her strength. But even after a week of recovering, all she could conjure was a small fire in her palm. If it couldn’t even light the whole shack, then all the more was it not enough to burn a trespasser to bring her back to her moonrite prison.

And that made her feel tense and anxious. If she couldn’t fight, if she couldn’t unleash her destructive flame, she’d be dragged back to her prison again. Back to that hell. Back to being a nutrient to the empire. Her escape would be useless!

Sollel knew that it would take time to recover her previous strength and power. And all she could do was wait and hide until she got her strength back.

Wait and hide . What a useless thing to do after escaping prison and swearing to get revenge. But Sollel knew that to get her revenge, she had to wait and hide to recover her strength.

Looking at the full moon through the small crack on the roof of the run-down shack, Sollel thought of her comrades, her sisters-in-arms—the other queens who reigned with her back when Yther was still a grand and respected country. The last time they spoke to one another was before they were sieged at the Yther Primal Hill Temple.

Even though it had been so many years, Sollel could still feel their presence. They’re still alive, but weak—just like me, she thought. I’m too weak to even pin down their exact location.

How many years has it been? Sollel had no idea. The only information she knew that could help her calculate the time was the current emperor now. He was the third generation to rule the Infernal Empire since her capture. That means a century had passed.

I have to get stronger.

Pushing herself up to sit on the wooden bed, Sollel looked around in the darkness. It was silent, and only the sound of insects at night can be heard.

Closing her eyes, concentrating, Sollel thought of her freer. Who was it? Who wants me out of prison? And it looks like that person had been looking for me. Why? It’s been centuries, we—I have already been forgotten by time.

The only long-lived race were the Elves, but Sollel was pretty sure that they wouldn’t rescue her. They care for their sacred forest too much to leave and sacrifice themselves for her.

Even when the Ytherians were sieged and betrayed, no one came to help them. No one stepped forward to save them. After all the protection and help they had given to every race, when it was time for them to need their protection, no one came.

No one.

Before, Sollel believed that kindness could change the world. Oh, how naïve she was. Their kindness was repaid by betrayal. And now, there was no kindness in her anymore. All she wanted was revenge. That’s the only way for her to live.

Revenge. I must have it, or I will die trying.

Sollel’s thoughts were interrupted when she heard multiple footsteps nearing the shack. And she instantly felt her strength draining.

Sollel’s eyes widened in panic when she realized and felt that familiar feeling. A moonrite is nearby!

Horrified even in her weakened state, she hurriedly put the hood of her cloak on to hide her face and left the shack, and then she started running. She ran away as fast as she could, but she was still too weak—too slow, but she didn’t give up.

No! I won’t be captured again! No! I will never be caged again! Sollel continued running barefoot and strengthless.

Behind her, she could hear the soldiers running with their torches, shouting for her to stop or she will be harmed, but Sollel did not listen.

She ran, uncaring if she was weak. She pushed herself to flee while trying to conjure a flame in her hand, but nothing. The flame she could summon couldn’t even harm a fly.

But the soldiers would not let Sollel escape. Never. Using their bows and moonrite-tipped arrows, they shot at the fleeing woman to weaken her.

Sollel immediately felt herself weakening. She looked back over her shoulder while running, her eyes widening in panic when she saw a dozen arrows with moonrite tips aimed at her.

Sollel stumbled, fell to the ground, but hurriedly got up and started running again, doing her best to run in zigzag to avoid getting hit by the arrows. But just when she thought she was safe, a moonrite arrow pierced her shoulder.

The pain was enough to make Sollel’s head ache, and her strength immediately dropped to almost nothing. But she didn’t stop moving her body to flee even when she was literally dragging herself and crawling on the ground just to escape her pursuers.

She would never let those scums imprison her again. Never!

Just when she was afraid the humans chasing her would send another volley of arrows, she heard clashing of weapons—sounds of swords and blades clashing against each other. Then she heard grunts and screams of pain, as if someone was fighting and killing the soldiers.

But Sollel couldn’t care less who it was. She forcefully pulled out the arrow from her flesh and threw it away and then started running again. Stumbling and falling to the ground a lot of times, Sollel continued to rush in the middle of the darkness without care where she was going. Her mind was focused on escaping that she didn’t realize she ran into a cliff…until she fell.

Sollel was already ready to accept her fate, that her body would soon break, but instead of feeling the hard ground, she felt herself sinking, followed by suffocation.

Before Sollel could figure out where she fell, her consciousness was already robbed from her by lack of air.

Meanwhile, from atop the cliff where Sollel fell, a man was standing there, looking at the flowing river below while holding his war blades covered with the soldiers’ blood. His eyes were focused on a certain part of the river.

And when the man didn’t see Sollel resurface, he left the cliff and vanished into the night.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 2

GENERAL ADRI was speechless after hearing the report early in the morning. His fear for his life was increasing day by day. As long as Yther’s Mistress of Flame was roaming free and not back to her prison, his head was in a great risk of being separated from his neck. The emperor already told him that he’d have his head if the Mistress of Flame was not caught, and now that it had been a week with no good news, General Adri was starting to become desperate.

“The soldiers that were sent to Mistvale Village has not yet returned. After investigating, we found out that all the soldiers had been slain. No one was left alive. And after further investigation, we found out that whoever took the woman from prison was the same person who killed the soldiers. It was a brutal killing, just like what happened in the moonrite chamber a week ago.”

Captain Hamlin, who was reporting to the general, looked up from bowing his head down to ask, “General, what is your next order?”

General Adri wanted to massage his forehead out of frustration, but he chose to show the captain of his soldiers in front of him that he was not a bit shaken by the news. He was a general; if he showed weakness, then what would his soldiers say? “Prepare five groups with a dozen soldiers each. We will hunt her down!”

Captain Hamlin was stunned. “Y-you’re hunting with us, General?” The soldier was surprised because it was uncommon for a general to hunt down prisoners. Even at war, generals position themselves behind the soldiers to command. They were not known to fight on the front line.

“Yes. That woman must be recaptured, or I will die trying!” General Adri swore, and Captain Hamlin felt an admiration toward the general. Unbeknownst to the captain, the general would really die if he couldn’t capture the Mistress of Flame. “Tell the soldiers that whoever captured the Mistress of Flame will receive honor and reward.”

General Adri wanted to take matters into his own hands. He would capture the Mistress of Flame and be in the emperor’s good graces again. He worked hard to get his position; he will double his effort to keep it. Besides, to stand behind the emperor was the greatest honor for a general, and he swore to support Emperor Gabrien until the very end.

So early that morning, General Adri and his elite soldiers rode their horses toward Mistvale, moonrite stones and chains ready.

♕♕♕

SOLLEL knew she fell from the cliff and almost drowned, robbing her consciousness away. So when she woke up and saw a run-down shack with a thatch roof, she immediately got up and winced when she felt a searing pain from her shoulder. The wound caused by that moonrite arrow.

Discarding the pain, Sollel became alert as she looked around. Where am I?

Just when she was about to leave the bed made of dried straw, the door opened. Sollel immediately grabbed the knife she saw from the old table, ready to defend herself, when she saw a beautiful young woman entered.

She was petite and tall, maybe as tall as Sollel. The woman was wearing a dark green tunic dress that did not reach her knees. It covered her arms and had a leather cincher around its waist. She also wore black leggings underneath the dress to cover her legs and black leather boots, with a bow and arrow strapped on her back. But it was her ears that caught Sollel’s full attention.

An elf? What is she doing outside their sacred forest? Sollel had a deep frown, still tightly holding the knife, ready to kill. Sollel did not care if the woman didn’t kill her while she was unconscious; she did not even care if the elf took care of her while she was weak. She had suffered enough to know that no one can be trusted, not even those who extended their hands to help.

“Take it easy,” the elf woman said as she entered the house. “I’m not going to hurt you.”

Sollel opened her mouth to answer, but her voice did not come out as she was expecting. It was raspy and small, and she could not create a coherent word.

It’s been so long since she closed her mouth and did not speak a word. Maybe this was a consequence of that.

Sollel closed her mouth and used the knife to write something on the ground.

Where am I? Who are you? These were Sollel’s questions.

The elf answered forthright, “This house is just outside the Beastrela, a place where halfling resides.” The elf woman put the vegetables she gathered in the woods on the table and continued, “Even though they are half-human, the humans still don’t want them and decided to put the halflings in one place to control them and make them work in the mine, mining iron for the Infernal Empire’s weaponry.”

When the elf didn’t continue, Sollel used the tip of the knife she was still holding to tap her other question: Who are you?

“I’m called Ciradyl,” the elf answered while inspecting the vegetables. “You can call me Cira. If you’re wondering why I’m outside the sacred forest, the answer is simple. I was banished for not adhering to their rule, which was to stay inside. I heard about this place, so I came here and became Beastrela’s healer. I saw you floating in the river. I thought you were dead, but when I dragged you out of the water, you were still breathing, so I took you here and nursed you.”

Sollel took a controlled, deep breath. Ytherians were a long-lived race. Still, just like any other race, they could be killed. But as Yther’s Mistress of Flame, a being blessed by deities, Sollel had an indomitable body. As long as her blood of flame flowed inside her, it would replenish her body with strength to live. That’s why she was so weak now—not only because of the moonrite prison but also because of blood loss. It would take time to recover it all back.

“I won’t ask you questions. You can leave if you want, I won’t stop you,” said Cira before handing a small vial with clear liquid inside. “Here. Drink this. It’ll heal your throat and other injuries.”

Sollel did not accept the vial, so Cira had to drink a small drop of liquid from the vial to show Sollel that it was not harmful.

“See? It’s a medicine, not poison.”

Sollel stared at Cira for a long minute before accepting the medicine.

“Give the medicine twenty-four hours to heal you and you’ll be able to speak,” said Cira before putting the vegetable in an old pot, and then she went to the back of the house to start a fire so she could start cooking the vegetables.

Sollel looked at the small vial in her hand, and then she used the knife to cut the tip of her finger. She put one drop of her blood inside the vial to purify it. Her blood could purify anything, detoxifying any harmful substances. Just in case.

After her blood entered the vial and was mixed with the clear liquid, that was the only time Sollel drank its contents. Then she went back to lie on the bed made of dried straw.

When Cira returned inside her house, she was relieved to see the woman lying on the bed again, resting. Cira moved silently while cooking the vegetable and the little meat she had to not disturb the woman.

While cooking, Cira kept on glancing inside the house. She couldn’t stop thinking about the woman inside. Even though she looked pale, the woman was still gorgeous with her dark red hair and eyes. Though those color combinations were uncommon in Azitera.

Not uncommon, Cira corrected herself. She knew a race that had such hair and eyes, but they were now extinct. But there were still halflings around, Cira thought because of the color of the woman’s hair. A pure-blood Ytherian had a more vibrant hair and eye color compared to the halflings who had muted colors, just like the woman. 

Halfling Ytherians were known as a slave to royalties in human kingdoms. There’s only a handful of them alive, and that made them rare and valuable goods to slave traders.

Cira entered her house after cooking the vegetable and meat. While setting the table, the woman got up, her eyes alert and ready.

Cira sighed. “Take it easy. I’m not going to hurt you.”

Cira could see that the woman did not believe her, so she just let the woman be and gave her food.

“This is not poisoned, just so you know,” Cira said after giving the bowl to the woman, who accepted it after a few seconds of hesitation.

And when Cira turned around to return to the table, Sollel used her flame to detoxify the food—just in case—before digging in.

It had been so long since she tasted good food that Sollel didn’t realize she was wolfing down the food too fast until she finished everything in less than a minute. Seeing that, Cira gave Sollel a second serving and a soup to pair with it.

It was Sollel’s first hearty meal since her capture, and it was satisfying. But knowing that she couldn’t stay to enjoy another bowl disheartened her.

Sollel knew she had to keep going, or she will be captured again.

Using the knife that Sollel was still holding, she wrote something on the ground.

How long have I been here?

Cira answered while eating on the table, “Three days now.”

Thank you for taking care of me. I need to go.

Cira shook her head in disagreement. “I won’t stop you from leaving, but you have to recover your full strength first. Give me a weak to heal you, then you can leave.” 

What Cira said made sense. Sollel knew how weak she was at the moment. Maybe if she accepted the elf’s offer since elves’ essence were known for their healing properties, she could recover even one-eighth of her strength. With this, she’d be able to fight her pursuer. She might not be able to raze hell yet, but Sollel was certain she could at least damage and kill her enemies while fleeing.

Sollel nodded at Cira, and then she wrote on the ground again: I don’t have anything to pay you.

Reading that, Cira shook her head. “It’s okay. You can just help around the house while I’m healing you. You can cook, get some water in the stream, or clean the house.” Cira had a feeling that the woman would be more wary of her if she told her to just do nothing and rest.

Sollel swiftly wrote on the ground with her knife: I can’t cook, but I can get some water or clean the house.

Cira frowned at Sollel. “How sheltered are you?”

Sollel wrote on the ground as her reply: Imprisoned.

Cira’s eyes widened. “How long have you been imprisoned?”

Half of my life.

That silenced Cira. Then she took a deep breath. “Very well. Just do what you can.”

Sollel nodded. Silence fell on the two until Cira asked, “What’s your name?”

Sollel wanted to lie, but to show her gratitude for the hearty meal, she told Cira her real name: Sollel.

When Cira read that, she smiled, like she remembered something good. “Sollel, the Mistress of Flame.”

That made Sollel eyes widened in surprise, but when Cira added, “Your parents must have liked the Mistress of Flame for them to named you after her.”

Sollel calmed down. You know the Mistress of Flame? Sollel wrote and asked Cira.

Cira shook her head. “Only from stories. My parents have seen the Mistress of Flame after visiting Yther. They said that when she’s enveloped with her flame, she shines brighter than the sun and more dazzling that any being in Azitera.”

Hearing that, Sollel felt her heart tightened and ached. The humans took everything from her, even the flame that she was so proud of.

“You must be an Ytherian halfling,” Cira continued. “Only an Ytherian could have such hair and eye color. So when you leave here, I suggest you use the hood of your cloak to cover your hair and hide your eyes. That way, slave traders won’t chase you.”

Slave traders? Sollel’s hold on the knife tightened. Her blood was boiling with rage. Ytherians were peace-loving, always offering their help. But now, they had been reduced to nothing but slaves!

I have to regain my strength , Sollel thought. She knew she could only take her revenge after her strength recovers. To burn them all and raze hell, I need my full strength.

Are there any pure-blood Ytherian left? Sollel wrote and asked Cira. She wanted to know if a small number of her people escaped.

Cira sighed and pushed the bowl with food away; she lost her appetite after reading Sollel question. “Some escaped, but they had been hunted down and executed by humans, while the not-so-powerful halflings are sold as slaves. Maybe there are still pure-blood Ytherians out there, but they’re well hidden. So if you are planning to look for them, I don’t think you can find them.”

Sollel felt a little happiness after what she heard. Some escaped the siege.

Her people were still alive!

The more reason that she had to get stronger. The only reason they lost before was because of the moonrite—their weakness. It sucked their strength and power. Not only that—they were betrayed by the humans they nurtured and protected.

Can you start healing me now? Sollel was so eager to get stronger and look for her people.

Instead of answering, Cira went to sit on the dried straw bed, in front of Sollel. “Give me your hands.”

With hesitation, Sollel slipped out her hands from the cloak. She flinched when Cira held her hands with her own.

It was Sollel’s first skin contact—no, it was not. Sollel corrected herself when she remembered the person who brought her out of prison. That person held her waist and even embraced her body.

“I can only do this for two hours a day,” Cira spoke, taking Sollel out of her reverie. “I can concoct medicine for you, but It’ll take too much time, so I can only heal you by passing my essence to your body. After that, I’ll be weakened for more than half a day, but that’s irrelevant.”

Sollel wanted to ask Cira why she was helping her, why she was doing this. Elves always hid their healing essence, but Cira spoke with sternness, not giving her time to ask.

“Let us begin.”

Hearing that, Sollel cleared her mind and closed her eyes to accept Cira’s essence flowing through her body.

The moment Cira’s essence entered Sollel’s body, Cira felt as if she were hit with ferocious and blistering flame, almost knocking her out. But Sollel grabbed Cira’s hand as Sollel controlled the raging flame inside her.

Her flame was very protective of her, so when it felt a foreign essence entering her body, it immediately tried to destroy it. But Sollel already calmed it down, and now all Cira could feel was warmth. Gone the ferocious blistering flame. Cira felt like the flame had been tamed.

Unbeknownst to Cira, only Sollel could tame the flame. Sollel was its mistress after all.

As Cira’s essence was passed, Sollel could feel the blood she lost slowly being replenished by Cira’s essence.

Just a little more, and I will be able to fight back, Sollel thought as she felt her blood boiling with rage…and more.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 3

CIRA’S RECOVERY EXPECTATION was nothing but a mistake. She calculated that she would recover in half a day, but that did not happen. She only gave her essence to Sollel for two hours, and the consequences were severe. She was spent, like her whole essence had been drained from her. Cira felt weak; she couldn’t even move a muscle, and she stayed on the bed for days.

Cira was grateful that even though Sollel already looked better, she stayed and cared for her. Though she couldn’t comment about her cooking—it was awful. But she had to stomach it, even though it made her stomach hurl.

As Cira lay on the bed, she couldn’t help thinking back to when she was healing Sollel. She felt as if she were filling an enormous empty cauldron, and that cauldron felt like an abyss. It couldn’t be satiated by her essence alone, and if she tried, she’d die without a doubt.

Cira turned her head on her house’s door when it opened and saw Sollel carrying a bowl in her hand. She flinched. Cira was sure that it was another one of Sollel’s horrible dishes.

And Cira was right. It was, indeed.

But Cira did not complain, since Sollel was feeding her diligently. She was actually delighted, but she didn’t show it. At that moment, Cira was still having doubts about Sollel’s identity. 

The days passed by with Sollel’s horrible dishes as Cira’s nourishment. Finally, after a few couple of days, Cira was now able to stand, and the first thing she did was cook.

“Just go get some water,” Cira said when Sollel offered to help. Cira wanted Sollel to be away so she could think clearly. 

Sollel listened and silently went out, holding a wooden basin. When she arrived at the riverbank, she filled the basin with water, but instead of lifting it back to Cira’s house, Sollel stared at her hands.

She didn’t mean to drain Cira’s essence. It was her flame that wanted to devour everything to recover its former strength, but she still felt guilty. If she didn’t stop her flame, it would’ve devoured all of Cira’s essence, including her life.

It was actually easy to recover her strength, but it meant killing innocent elves and draining their essences dry, starting with Cira. But such way of recovering was brutal and dark. She would never be like the humans she loathed, sacrificing other lives to alleviate their own.

Sollel heaved a deep sigh and clenched her hands when she remembered what she gained after Cira’s essence entered her body. Cira’s essence was drained, but her strength was only raised a little bit. Not enough to gain back one-eighth of her strength, but close enough.

At least with her strength now, she could deal with her pursuers—only if their numbers were low since she was still weak to fight a dozen of soldiers. She could damage them at most, but killing them? It would take a lot of time.

Sighing, Sollel picked up the basin and started walking back to Cira’s house, but before she reached Cira’s home, she felt her strength being drained.

Moonrite!

Sollel clenched her teeth and was about to run as fast as she could and hide when she remembered Cira. She was weak at the moment because of the essence she had given her. What if the empire did something to her?

Sollel couldn’t stand the thought of her healer suffering because of her. Therefore, with everything she got, she fixed her dark red cloak and put on her hood before walking to Cira’s house, leaving the basin in the middle of the forest.

Slowly inching closer to Cira’s house and hiding behind trees, Sollel saw more than a dozen of soldiers outside. Cira was forced to kneel, her face pressed on the ground while being interrogated.

“I am Captain Hutch Hamlin of the Infernal Empire. Some of the Beastrela’s residences said you saved a woman. Where is she?” the head of the soldiers asked.

Cira didn’t answer. Captain Hutch Hamlin put his left foot on Cira’s head to press Cira’s face to the ground. “Answer me or we will execute you for assisting a wanted criminal!”

Cira grunted in pain as the captain of the soldiers pressed her head harder. She could feel that it wouldn’t take long for her skull to be crushed, but she couldn’t open her mouth to tell them where Sollel was. She didn’t want to. 

“Where is the woman?!” Captain Hamlin asked angrily. “Speak or I will cut your tongue, you impudent elf!”

“I…don’t…know…” Cira answered difficultly. “S-she already left j-just this morning.”

“Where?”

“N-north.” Cira was squeezing her eyes tightly while feeling the weight of the captain’s feet on her head.

Satisfied with the information he gathered, Captain Hamlin took off his left foot from the elf’s head and kicked her away from him. Then he ordered his men, “Tie her up. We’re going north. If we didn’t see the Mistress of Flame on the way to north, we will kill her. For now, feel free to have your way with her.”

The soldiers who heard that snickered and licked their dry lips while eyeing Cira hungrily, especially her long, slender legs that were bared because of her torn clothing.

Cira was scared. She wanted to scream, but she knew no one would help her but herself. These were the Infernal Empire soldiers. Whoever dared to go against them would be considered traitors.

While feeling hopeless, she was thankful that she lied. Cira had a feeling that even if she told them the truth, what was about to happen to her now would still happen to her. She couldn’t escape, but at least, Sollel could.

But before the thought of Sollel escaping eased Cira’s mind, a ball of flame, two times larger than Cira’s fist, was thrown from the forest. The ball of flame looked weak that the soldiers even started laughing when they saw it. But when it reached the center of the soldiers’ formation, it exploded so massively that Cira felt a ringing in her ear.

In the midst of the fire and confusion, someone grabbed Cira and pulled her to run. But before they could run toward the forest and escape, Captain Hamlin saw through the fire and confusion and blocked their path while taking out the moonrite stone.

Sollel, who was holding Cira’s arm, immediately felt her strength being sucked away. She dropped on her knees, weakened by the moonrite. From Sollel helping Cira, now it was Cira helping Sollel.

Seeing the Mistress of Flame on her knees, Captain Hamlin laughed maniacally, already imagining the honor and reward he would receive for recapturing the Mistress of Flame. Captain Hamlin already forgot about Cira; his sole attention was focused on how to maximize the power of the moonrite that he began advancing toward Sollel, his hand holding the stone stretched to its limit. He was too focused on weakening the Mistress of Flame that the captain didn’t see how Cira’s elven eyes glint with understanding while looking at the stone that he held.

Sollel’s body was about to fall to the ground completely when she suddenly felt her strength slowly coming back. She looked around and saw Cira running away with the moonrite stone she grabbed from the captain’s hand.

When Cira realized earlier that the stone was weakening Sollel, she immediately made a plan to grab it and ran away, hoping that it would give Sollel her strength back. Cira didn’t even know if what she did made sense; she didn’t even know if running away with the moonrite was the right thing to do in their situation. She just went with her gut feeling. Using one of elven strengths, speed, Cira stole the moonrite stone and ran away.

“Don’t bother with that elf,” Captain Hamlin clicked his tongue, his voice was confident seeing that the Mistress of Flame was still kneeling on the ground near him, like she was groveling before him. He feel elated. “We already have what we came here for. Tie her up while she’s still weak. Then, we will regroup with the others and celebrate our catch of the day.”

Captain Hamlin was beaming with happiness, his lips twitching in delight. He couldn’t stop thinking about all the honor and the reward he would receive. The captain’s greedy eyes glinted in delight after seeing all the soldiers under his command readied the chain made of iron to tie Sollel, who they thought was still weak. But unbeknownst to everyone, Sollel had regained one-eighth of her strength now that there were no moonrite stones to weaken her.

In a heartbeat, before the soldiers could lay their hands on Sollel and before the fitly iron chain seized her, Sollel’s hand swiftly grabbed the captain’s sword, pulled it out of its sheath, and made two turns on her heel to put a distance between her and the captain.

“My sword!” Captain Hamlin gritted his teeth and bravely advanced toward Sollel, thinking that Sollel still hadn’t recovered. “Give it back, you witch!”

Sollel did not listen. Instead, she spun the sword around her hand like an expert warrior before gripping it tightly again and using its sharp blade to cut her other palm, letting her blood soak the sharp edge of the sword.

Standing in the center, surrounded by the soldiers and Captain Hamlin, Sollel slowly closed her eyes to concentrate before muttering under her breath, “Blood of flame, come forth and burn my foes.”

Sollel opened her eyes and saw how her blood on the sword turned into flames, gleefully dancing. Now the sword was eagerly covered with fire.

It was blazing and blistering hot, but Sollel wielded the flaming sword as if it were a part of her, spinning it around her hand as she moved to annihilate her enemies. Sollel was like a demoness wielding flame, and the fire burned fiercely as she mercilessly slashed and burned her foes, precisely moving her flaming sword like she was performing a piece of art, not sparing a life, but the captain’s.

Seeing how his soldiers were easily defeated, Captain Hamlin started backing away. His mind was planning to escape and come back with a moonrite stone, but before he could take a step, the Mistress of Flame wielding a flaming sword appeared in front of him.

Immediately, Captain Hamlin dropped on his knees and begged pathetically, “Please don’t kill me! I’m just following orders. It’s not me! It’s General Adri. Please spare me. Please! I’m a nobody!”

Sollel didn’t think twice or hesitate. With a single slash of her flaming sword, Captain Hamlin’s head was cut off from his neck and flew. When it dropped on the ground, it rolled down a couple of times before it stopped, Hamlin’s face facing the ground. Instead of blood dripping from his head, it burned; the flame mercilessly devoured it.

Seeing her dead enemies, Sollel dropped the flaming sword. The second the sword left her hand, it melted in a heartbeat.

Looking at the melted sword, Sollel remembered her war blades—a twin sword made of lava and fire stones blessed by deities. It was the only weapon that could withstand her blood of flame and would not melt. But it was taken away from her; she didn’t even know if it still existed.

Sollel stopped looking at the melted sword and turned her head to her right when she felt Cira’s presence.

“The moonrite stone?” Sollel asked when she saw Cira.

Cira showed Sollel a leather pouch. “In here. This is a sealing pouch. Don’t worry. It won’t leak.”

Sollel just nodded and silently walked past Cira. It was Sollel’s way bidding goodbye, hoping that their paths would not cross again. She knew she’d end up dragging Cira to her problems, but then, Cira ran after her.

“Who are you really?” Cira demanded. She had her doubts and wanted to be certain. 

Sollel didn’t answer. It’s better for Cira not to know.

“Don’t you think I deserve to know the truth after I lied for you and my life is now ruined?” Cira was just saying anything that came into her mind to get an answer from Sollel herself. 

Sollel stopped on her tracks and turned to face Cira. “We have to part ways here, or you’ll be in constant danger.”

Cira hid the leather pouch in her satchel and looked at Sollel sternly. “I don’t care about the danger. I want to know who I risked my life for.”

Sollel remained silent, so Cira continued asking.

“Why are the Infernal Empire soldiers looking for you? Why are they so desperate to capture you?” Cira asked, not giving up on getting an answer from Sollel. “Are you really a wanted criminal like they say? I saw you wielding a flaming sword…how could you do it? A halfling Ytherian couldn’t possibly wield such powerful flame. Does that make you a pure-blood Ytherian? But that’s just impossible! Even pure-blood Ytherians can’t turn a sword into a flaming one!” She looked into Sollel’s eyes. “Your name…is that really your real name, or did you lie to me about it?”

Sollel shook her head quietly.

“You were really named after the Mistress of Flame?”

Sollel looked into Cira’s eyes and answered, “I am she.”

Cira wanted to laugh at what Sollel said. But seeing Sollel’s earnest expression and recalling the event that had happened—her scabs and wounds, her unusual hair and eye color, the Infernal Empire soldiers, the moonrite stone, and the flaming sword—Cira finally accepted the truth that she had been doubting since she saw the woman. 

“I thought… you’re dead.” Cira was doing her utmost best to remain calm. 

A sad smile appeared on Sollel’s lips as she conjured a small ball of flame in her hand. “I maybe weak considering how I was caged and tortured for more than a century, but I’m pretty much alive, Cira.”

Cira’s jaw went slack, and her speech became erratic as she understood what was happening. “T-that’s why the I-Infernal Empire is l-looking for you! Th-they want to r-recapture you! Oh, my deities!” Cira’s hair on her skin rose. “So the rumors are true! It’s really true!”

Sollel’s forehead furrowed. “What rumors?”

“That Yther’s four queens, the mistresses blessed by deities, are still alive and being held prisoner by humans!” Cira exclaimed. She couldn’t believe it. Her heart was racing, and she couldn’t contain her excitement. “Oh, my deities! It’s been so long that no one believes it. It’s just a rumor—a bedtime story among halflings and non-humans!”

Sollel’s face darkened. “Tell me the story.”

Cira nodded and immediately told Sollel the story she knew too well. “According to the story, after the siege, you, Queen Sollel, the Mistress of Flame, was taken by the Infernal Empire. Queen Astrid, the Mistress of the Wind, was imprisoned in the Kingdom of Caelum. Queen Gatria, the Mistress of Nature, was imprisoned in the Kingdom of Treterra. And lastly, Queen Aenwyn, the Mistress of the High Seas, was taken to Nayale Archipelago.”

Sollel’s rage toward the four kingdoms doubled, but she controlled her raging anger and spoke to Cira calmly. “Thank you. I have to go—”

“Are you going to save the other queens?” Cira could guess what Sollel was thinking. “Let me accompany you! I can be your guide, Queen Sollel.”

Cira looked too eager, gone the indifferent elf who gave Sollel an essence. She would never let an opportunity like this pass. To travel with the Mistress of Flame would be Cira’s greatest honor. “I have travelled far and wide after I was banished from the sacred forest. I know everything there is to know about Azitera.”

Knowing that she couldn’t stop Cira and leaving her here was dangerous, Sollel nodded and accepted Cira’s offer. She needed a guide indeed. It had been more than a century. She knew that Azitera had changed over the years that she was imprisoned.

“Where to?” Cira was smiling happily because Queen Sollel accepted her offer.

Sollel took a deep breath and chose the nearest presence she could feel. “Gatria…”

Cira immediately faced north. “To the Kingdom of Treterra then.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 4

THUNDEROUS SOUNDS of footsteps from combat boots could be heard from the great hall where the lord of the castle was sitting on his black throne chair. The great hall was a rectangular-shaped room with a thick red carpet, a high ceiling, and glass windows with chairs on both sides. In the top-middle was the black throne chair that only the lord of the castle could occupy.

At that moment, the lord of the castle had his chin propped on the back of his clenched right hand, his elbow resting on the armrest, and his eyes closed while listening to the incoming footsteps.

Alone in the great hall, it only showed how confident the lord of the castle was on his combat ability that he thought he didn’t need the protection of his right-hand man, the commander of his warriors, to receive their uninvited guests.

Even after the door to the great hall opened, the lord of the castle didn’t open his eyes to greet his uninvited guests. His eyes remained closed.

Without waiting for the lord of the house to greet them, the head of the group that just entered the great hall introduced himself as he knelt on one knee, simultaneously bowing his head.

“I am General Adri of the Infernal Empire, requesting an audience with the warlord.”

With his eyes still closed, the lord of the castle, the warlord, spoke, his voice deep and callous. “Speak.”

General Adri immediately revealed the purpose of his visit to the warlord’s castle. “A prisoner of the empire has escaped, and the empire is seeking for your assistance.”

“Oh?” That piqued the warlord’s interest. “How do you think I could help? Do you want to borrow my warriors?”

General Adri answered without a thought, “The empire would appreciate it if the warlord lent us his warriors, but the empire would appreciate it more if the warlord himself would hunt the prisoner.”

The lord of the castle chuckled coldly at the audacity of the empire to order him around. “You can borrow my warriors, but I’m afraid I must decline the empire’s request to personally hunt down the prisoner. I have more important matters to take care of.”

General Adri gritted his teeth. He would do anything to get the warlord’s help, so he divulged a secret that he knew would get a positive response. “The prisoner who escaped is none other than Sollel, Yther’s Mistress of Flame.”

The warlord’s sharp black eyes opened. “The Mistress of Flame?”

General Adri nodded. “Yes. She escaped with a traitor’s help, and we found her outside Beastrela. Unfortunately, she escaped again and burned our soldiers until they couldn’t be identified anymore. But even so, the empire believed that the Mistress of Flame is still weak, and after spending all her energy fighting our soldiers, wherever she is now, she’s an easy prey.”

The warlord straightened his body and looked at the general. “There are strong warriors inside the empire. Why come to me?”

“Because you’re one of the seven remaining descendants of Sappher,” General Adri answered eloquently. “With your strength, weapons, and combat prowess, you could easily defeat the Mistress of Flame.”

The warlord gritted his teeth because he’s one of the people who knew the real history of Sappher with the Ytherians. The Kingdom of Sappher was known for their proud warriors and their arcane weapons that could grant its owner an ability that only the owner could wield. And as proud as they were, the warriors of Sappher declared war against the Ytherians to show the whole Azitera their strength, and it was a miserable defeat that caused the decline of Sappher, to the extent that only seven families remained. He came from one of the seven families.

After the decline of Sappher, the seven remaining royal families of Sappher scattered throughout Azitera to strengthen themselves with a vow that someday, they would gather again to defeat the Ytherians. And three generations later, the warlord still hadn’t met a descendant of Sappher other than his traveler good friend, Xeke.

The warlord took a deep breath. “Very well. As one of the descendants of Sappher, I will hunt her down, but I will do it alone. You and your soldiers will only slow me down.”

The warlord’s arrogant tone did not sit well with General Adri. He, too, was a warrior and shouldn’t be looked down upon. Not only that, but the warlord was also much younger than the general, and the general believed that young warriors should pay respect to their elders. But even though he felt insulted by the warlord’s arrogance, he still nodded and agreed. The emperor’s order was clear, and that was to ask the warlord’s help to drag the Mistress of Flame back to her prison.

The warlord looked at General Adri’s retreat as he left the great hall. When the general was finally out of his sight, he called Gabin, his right-hand man and the commander of his troops.

“Your excellency.” Gabin bowed his head and reached out his hands that were holding a simple set of garments: a cloak, two unappealing blades, and a slightly worn-out combat leather boots. “Everything is ready.”

The warlord got up from his chair and accepted all the things Gabin was holding out to him. “I will leave the castle to you, Gabin. If anything happened, you know how to contact me.”

Gabin bowed his head. “Yes, your excellency. May the deities bless your travel.”

The warlord smiled. “I’m already blessed, Gabin.”

Gabin smiled because he knew the warlord was speaking facts.

♕♕♕

“WHERE ARE we?” Sollel asked for the third time after sensing that they were lost. Sollel was just following Cira because she said she’ll be her guide, but Sollel immediately regretted her decision after walking on plains for three days and sleeping on the ground for two nights. And now they’ve entered a forest and they’re definitely missing.

Cira turned to face Sollel but couldn’t look at Sollel’s eyes. “This is the shortcut to the Kingdom of Treterra. I’m sure of it, really!”

Sollel just nodded at Cira and urged her to move forward. And as Sollel followed Cira deep into the forest, she left traces of burnt leaves along the way, just to make sure that they were not going in circles. Hours later, Sollel saw the same leaves she burnt.

Sollel looked around. All she could see were trees and grasses. There’s not even a single path that she could see. “We’re lost, aren’t we?”

Cira looked away and pretended to look for a path that could lead them out of the forest.

Sollel sighed. “What happened to ‘I know everything there is to know about Azitera’?”

Cira looked at Sollel and bit her lower lip. “Azitera…changed while I was in Beastrela?”

Sollel stared blankly at Cira and was about to scold her for hiding the fact that they were lost when she heard a rustling sound. Seeing that Cira was about to speak, Sollel signaled her not to say a word. Cira immediately held her tongue and readied her bow and arrow.

Sollel felt hopeless while the rustling sound got nearer and nearer. She didn’t have any weapon, and even if she could find a sword, it would melt in an instant after using her blood of flame. Basically, all she could rely for now was her ball of flame.

As the rustling sound got nearer, Sollel summoned a ball of flame in her hand while carefully backing away, not making a sound. And from the thick trees, Sollel and Cira finally saw where the rustling sound was coming from.

A huge black wolf with red eyes baring its fangs at them entered their line of sight, saliva dripping from its mouth. Sollel wanted to stay low, not wanting to make a sound, when she saw how the black wolf was looking at them. It looked hungry, ready to devour its prey—and they were its prey.

Before the black wolf could attack, Sollel threw the ball of flame in her hand to the black wolf, and then she started running. “Cira! Run!”

Sollel’s worry of Cira’s well-being was unfounded when she saw Cira running and sliding on the tree branches, expertly jumping from tree to tree like an elven warrior who were experts in forest battles. Seeing Cira safe, Sollel kept conjuring ball of flames one after another, throwing it to the black wolf while running. But her flames couldn’t penetrate the black wolf’s thick fur.

I need a bigger ball of flame, Sollel thought frustratedly. Back in the day, it would only take one ball of flame to destroy this beast, but now with her current strength, she was no match for it. All she could do was run and hope that her ball of flames could somehow distract the beast.

And as Sollel kept throwing her ball of flames to the black wolf, Cira, who was running and sliding on tree branches, shot her arrows at the black wolf. Cira’s aim was precise that even Sollel was impressed with the elf’s agility and aim.

“Head north, Your Highness!” Cira shouted while shooting the black wolf with her arrows. “I can see an exit!”

Listening to Cira, Sollel faced the black wolf and gathered the biggest ball of flame she could conjure in her hand. When the black wolf was only a meter away, Sollel released her ball of flame, blasting the black wolf into the air, a few meters away. Then Sollel started running north again, relieved to see that Cira was indeed right—there’s an exit. She could already see the trees thinning as she got nearer and nearer to the exit.

Cira jumped down from the tree and landed beside Sollel. The two ran as fast as they could to the exit of the forest, while the black wolf—now with an injured eye—chased them furiously. It was angry because of the damage that Sollel’s flame had done to its left eye.

Hearing the black wolf’s angry roar behind them, Cira and Sollel ran faster than the wind. They both had a triumphant smile when they reached the end of the forest. Without stopping, the two continued running until there was a safe distance between them and the forest. Their smile widened when they saw that the black wolf had stopped at the edge of the forest, glaring at them.

Cira giggled and danced to mock the black wolf, and together with Sollel, the two turned around at the same time to continue their journey. But their smiles instantly disappeared when they saw what was in front of them.

There was a wide grayish rocky plain, so wide that they couldn’t see the end of it. Two active volcanos were on each side, both spewing sulfur gases and ash. And in the middle of the two enormous active volcanoes was a wide path made of flat ash rock; there were also rock formations out of ashes.

Something clicked in Sollel’s mind upon seeing it. “The ash terrain?”

Cira’s eyes widened when she heard what Queen Sollel said. The ash terrain was harmful to any creature in Azitera. No wonder the black wolf didn’t continue chasing them; it was afraid for its life.

The ash terrain looked calm, and the falling ashes from the volcanoes could be mistaken as a pretty snow, but it was all a lie. The air in the ash terrain was toxic and harmful to the body, not to mention the heat that would consume them as they go deeper into the ash terrain. If humans tried to cross the ash terrain, they’d die in half a day, halflings would probably die within two days, while other races could probably survive up to four days.

Unfortunately, to cross the ash terrain, seven days were needed.

Sollel and Cira both came from a long-lived race. Sollel could definitely make it out alive because of her indomitable body, but for Cira, it would be a challenge.

“Let’s go back to the forest and kill that black wolf,” said Sollel. She’d rather risk her life fighting the wolf than to cross the ash terrain. Maybe if her strength was like before, she could even walk slowly and enjoy the heat, but with her strength and body, not to mention the toxic air in the ash terrain, it would drain her.

“Ahm…” Cira immediately turned around, eager to go back to the forest, but she didn’t dare take a step when she saw a pack of black wolves at the edge of the forest, looking at them hungrily. “I don’t think that’s an option anymore, Your Highness.”

Sollel turned around and gritted her teeth when she saw a pack of black wolves glaring at them, baring their fangs, as if they were challenging them to go back so they could rip them apart.

Sollel sighed and looked at the ash terrain in front of them. What choice do we have?

Be eaten or cross the ash terrain while praying to the deities for their safety?

“How long would it take to cross the ash terrain?” Sollel asked Cira.

“Seven days,” Cira answered. She felt guilty for not informing the queen earlier that they were lost. Maybe if she said anything, they would not be in their situation now. “I’m sorry. This is all my fault. I should’ve told you earlier that we were lost. I really thought we were going the right way. I just want us to reach Treterra fast.”

“No use blaming yourself,” Sollel answered while observing the ash terrain. “Let’s just cross this hellish terrain.”

Cira nodded firmly before she took out two leaves from her satchel. “Here, Your Highness. Eat this. This are areca leaves. It can protect our body from toxins for a few days. Though you can only consume one leaf every week, or it’ll turn to poison if you took two leaves within the same week.”

Sollel did not want to take it since her blood could combat and purify any toxins that entered her body, but she realized how the plant could help her conserve her strength. If her blood continued combating and purifying the toxins that would enter her for seven days, it would have a negative impact on her body, weakening her, for sure. I can’t have that, she thought.

“I will save the areca leaf when we arrive at the center of ash terrain,” Sollel advised Cira. “But you should consume it now. You may be long-lived, but you can still die.”

Cira shuddered at that and hurriedly consumed one areca leaf. “I’m ready, Queen Sollel.”

Sollel nodded and took a deep breath before she bravely took a step forward while Cira was behind her, following her lead.

Sollel led the first day of their journey to cross the ash terrain. They didn’t stop to rest or sleep. On the second day, still far from the center of the ash terrain, Sollel started to feel the heat, while Cira already felt the burning sensation of the two active volcanoes sandwiching them in between.

On their third day, Cira’s body was begging for rest, and the effect of the areca leaves was fading, but she kept going. Cira couldn’t voice out her complain, seeing how the queen caught her breath from time to time, tired just like she was.

On their third night, Sollel finally wanted to rest for a bit, but the problem was…where? Everywhere they turned, all they could see was a mountain of ash rock, and if someone touched it, they would burn.

The two enormous volcanoes were hundreds of kilometers apart, but the heat on the center between them still felt as if the craters were nearby. It was blistering hot. Well, for Cira it was, but for Sollel, she could only feel a little.

Sollel took the areca leaves she was hiding and ate it, and then she turned to Cira. “Are the areca leaves still in effect?” The toxic in the air was getting thicker.

Cira shook her head while trying to dry her sweat. “Don’t worry. I’ll try to use the essence in my body to heal myself, but it’ll slow me down.”

“Do it,” Sollel ordered Cira. “Dragging your dead body will be more arduous than slowing down.”

Cira looked at Sollel flatly and spoke with sarcasm. “Thank you for your worry, Your Highness.”

Sollel nodded. “You’re welcome.”

Cira just sighed at how earnest Sollel sounded.

Stopping for a few minutes, the two realized that they wouldn’t be able to rest even if they wanted to, so they continued walking until they reached the ash rock mountain—the center of the ash terrain.

Sweating, dehydrated, and exhausted, Sollel and Cira started climbing the ash rock mountain. The climb took a whole day and half a night. When they reached the top, Sollel and Cira expected a hellish temperature, but to their surprise, the heat was not as high as they assumed and anticipated. Still, they didn’t stick around and continued climbing down after they ate Cira’s dried meat provision and drank a little water from Cira’s water canteen.

Cira was full of blisters and burns; if not for Sollel’s fire essence being wrapped around her, she would’ve died—but Cira didn’t know that. She had no idea that Sollel was spreading her fire essence to protect her from the blistering heat of the ash terrain.

On their fifth day, Sollel and Cira were already at the foot of the mountain. Their hike continued. On their sixth day, the two finally started seeing vegetation. And when Cira saw a tree, the elf climbed it and slept on one of the tree branches without a care in the world. The temperature already dropped down, and they could finally rest.

Seeing that Cira would be asleep for a couple of hours, Sollel sat on the ground and leaned on the bark of the tree that Cira was sleeping on and closed her eyes, not to sleep but to plan ahead.

This can’t continue. To safely reach the Kingdom of Treterra, we need a proper guide that can also protect us, she thought.

If Sollel was not mistaken, beside the ash terrain was a human settlement, the small town of Ashmire. And if her memory served her right, there was a guild of hunters in that town.

Maybe we could employ someone from the guild of hunters. It was the only plan Sollel could think of at the moment since she was still weak.

Sollel took a deep breath and concentrated to feel her flame. After six days in ash terrain, after being immersed in high temperature for six days, Sollel’s strength did not change. I wonder where I can find a fire stone. Its essence can definitely help me recover a bit of my strength.

Sighing, Sollel thought of a plan since her elf guide was not reliable. To get to Gatria, Sollel needed to think ahead and prepare.

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 5

THE LITTLE town of Ashmire was just as lively as Sollel remembered, though the houses and establishments had changed. It even became grander. It was the farthest town under the Infernal Empire, and it was also the boundary town between the empire and the Kingdom of Treterra. Usually, towns like these that were far away from the main city were undeveloped, underprivileged, and unprosperous, but not Ashmire. And it’s because of the ashes from the ash terrain. Citizens of Ashmire used the ashes to build concrete houses and buildings, and their main livelihood was creating ceramics from volcanic ash.

These beautiful and artistic ceramics would be transported to big cities and were very famous with the royalties and nobilities. With the ceramics and concrete materials they could make from their endless supply—the ashes from the ash terrain—the citizens of Ashmire were mostly wealthy merchants and hardworking laborers. This was one of the reasons there’s a guild of hunters in this small town. Their services were needed when transporting goods to other cities to repel bandits and beasts.

As one would enter the town, stores and stalls selling ceramics could easily be seen. Some ceramic designs caught Sollel’s eyes, but she continued walking with Cira to find an inn. Both exhausted from crossing the ash terrain, they were both eager to find a comfortable place to sleep and rest.

Seeing Cira taking the lead, Sollel took back her words. Maybe Cira was reliable after all, except for directions.

It’s been more than a century since Sollel visited a human town, so she let Cira take the lead and just followed.

Cira found an inn and rented one room with two beds. And since Cira already had a good sleep on the tree yesterday, she roamed around town to buy the things they needed while Sollel took a rest. When Sollel woke up, the sun was already down, and there was already a garment on the foot of her bed.

Must be Cira.

Leaving her bed, Sollel took a bath in the bathroom inside their room. The wooden bathing tub was already filled with water, and Sollel immediately started washing herself. It had been so long since she took a bath and cleaned herself, so long since a soap lathered her skin.

While cleaning herself, Sollel realized that some of her scabs had disappeared. It’s a sign that her blood was slowly replenishing her body and healing her old wounds.

After Sollel finished bathing, she wore the garment Cira provided for her. It was an all-leather tube dress with a tiered skirt reaching her middle thighs; it came with leather underpants and a leather shoulder guard. There were also a light breast and back plate, an armband, and a gauntlet wristband.

When she stepped out of the bathroom, she was all clean and fresh. Sollel was surprised to see Cira in the room, clapping at her. Cira was like a happy mother after seeing her child wearing the new clothes she bought.

“I knew it! It looks good on you, Queen Sollel.” Cira beamed with happiness because the clothes she bought fit the queen well.

“Just call me Sollel.” She sat on the edge of her bed and put on her leather boots. “Thank you for the dress, Cira.”

Cira smiled from ear to ear. “Do you like it? Have you tried the cloak? I made sure that it could cover your whole body.”

Sollel finished putting on his leather boots and glanced at her dirty and ash-covered cloak that was hanging on the back of the wooden chair near her bed. “I would rather use my old cloak.” It was the only connection she had with her savior. She wanted to keep it.

Cira immediately sprang from her bed and grabbed Sollel’s old cloak. “Then I’ll wash it for you.”

Sollel shook her head. “No. I’ll do it.”

“Nope. The queen should just rest.”

“What queen?” Sollel became expressionless. “I’m no queen. After what happened to my people, I don’t deserve that title anymore.”

Cira shook her head and smiled confidently. “As long as there’s fire inside you, you will forever be Queen Sollel, Yther’s Mistress of Flame.”

Sollel smiled at Cira with gratitude. “Thank you, and thank you again for the dress and other things. I don’t know how I could pay you back at the moment, but I will.”

Cira waved her hand in the air, dismissing Sollel’s words. “It’s okay. I have lots of money.”

“Being a healer in Beastrela pays well?” Sollel asked while massaging her own shoulder, but her eyes were observing Cira.

Cira nodded with a wide smile. “Yes.”

Sollel did not ask any more questions about Cira’s “wealth” and just focused on her plan. “Do you think your money will be enough to hire a hunter to guide us to Treterra?”

“Huh?” Cira frowned at Sollel, like she was confused, and then she pointed at herself. “Aren’t I here for that?”

“No offense meant, Cira.” Sollel had a dry smile on her lips. “You suck at directions.”

“Oh.” Cira bit her lower lip and spoke regretfully. “It only happened because I was trying to look for the shortest path to Treterra.”

“I know,” Sollel placated Cira. “The hunter won’t just guide us to Treterra. The hunter will protect us too. I can’t keep burning anyone who means us harm. It’ll alert the empire. We have to travel without leaving a trace. And I also have to conserve my strength. I’m still weak.”

Cira remembered how Sollel wielded the flaming sword and burned the soldiers. If that was weak for her, she must be a terrifying being , she thought. “Very well. We will go to the guild of hunters first thing tomorrow to look for a hunter who can defeat a dozen enemies and who also know Azitera like it’s their own backyard.”

“I hope we find someone reliable.”

“Oh, we will.” Cira sounded confident that Sollel just smiled. “Anyway, it’s dinner time. Let’s eat at the inn’s tavern. I heard they serve good food.”

Sollel just nodded and followed Cira after wearing her new cloak for the meantime and putting on the hood to hide her hair and eyes. Walking behind Cira, Sollel couldn’t help seeing the changes in her elf companion. The first time they met, Cira was indifferent, but now she became so bubbly and kind. The duality was making her overthink. But except for direction, Cira had been a great help.

At dinner, Sollel still couldn’t stop thinking how Cira changed after knowing who she really was, so when they went back to their room after having a meal, Sollel asked, “Why are you helping me, Cira?”

Cira’s answer was immediate and without a lace of deception. “It’s personal. Don’t worry. I would rather harm myself than harm you. You can take my essence and my life if you think I’m lying.”

Sollel didn’t press for more. “And the moonrite? It’s still with you, right?”

Cira nodded before she took the sealing pouch from her satchel and handed it to Sollel. “You can keep it if you want, Your Highness, just don’t destroy it. I want to study its properties and find a similar sacred stone that can cancel its effect, so it won’t weaken you anymore.”

Sollel pushed the sealing pouch back to Cira. “You can keep it. I don’t mind.”

Cira’s smiled widely because she felt that she earned Queen Sollel’s trust. “I may not be good with direction, but I will really find a sacred stone that can cancel the effect of moonrite on you. That, I swear by my life, Your Highness.”

Sollel nodded. “All right. Thank you.”

Cira was happy as she went to bed to sleep, while Sollel stayed up since she couldn’t sleep at night anymore. Her body had lost its ability to distinguish between night and day after being caged for more than a century. The night didn’t mean sleep for Sollel anymore.

When Cira woke up and saw Sollel sitting on her bed, she thought Sollel woke up early, so she invited Sollel to have breakfast, which Sollel graciously accepted. After breakfast, the two went out to visit the guild of hunters. Since Sollel was covered with a cloak from head to toe while Cira was not wearing one, she looked out of place. People gave her a look, as if investigating her, especially when they entered the building for guild of hunters.

“We’re looking for a capable hunter that could take us to Treterra safely,” Cira said to the administrator at the front desk. “Preferably someone who can defeat a dozen of enemies without dying.”

The administrator was not fazed by Cira’s request and gave her a list. “These are our capable hunters. Beside their names are their successfully completed tasks and accomplishments.”

As Cira went through the list, Sollel was roaming her eyes around, looking for a suitable hunter herself, when her eyes caught sight of a tall man with broad shoulders entering the guild. His eyes were an enthralling hazel; he had a proud nose and jaw line—an appearance that was easy on the eye. Sollel could tell that his body build was of a warrior. But what really caught her attention were the two blades strapped on his back. It looked intimidating, but Sollel was interested. For someone to wield two war blades, he must be strong and capable.

Without much thought, Sollel walked to meet the man in the middle of the guild hall. Sollel basically blocked the man’s way; in turn, the man frowned at the cloak-covered individual in front of him.

“Are you a hunter?”

The man was not expecting a stern but pleasant voice of a woman underneath the cloak. “Yes, I am.”

“If I hire you to bring me and my companion to the Kingdom of Treterra unharmed, would you accept?” Sollel directly asked without lacing her words, even though the man’s deep baritone voice caught her off guard. “And can you handle it?”

The hunter tilted his head to the side to try to see the woman’s face hiding under the hood. “My lady, I am more than capable. The question is, can you afford me?”

“How much are you?” That sounded off to Sollel, so she paraphrased her question. “How much are your services?”

“One hundred gold coins.”

Sollel didn’t know how much the economy changed over the years, but she was sure that one hundred gold coins were too much. “Why don’t you just rob me?” Sollel couldn’t help being sarcastic.

The hunter chuckled and became even more attractive that all the women in the guild looked at him. “Let me have a good look at your face, and I’ll lessen the price to half. I’m a good-hearted hunter after all.”

“Or I can just burn you,” Sollel muttered under her breath. It was a mistake approaching this rude hunter.

“Feel free.” The hunter shrugged nonchalantly. “I’ll accept your fire anytime.”

Cira, who was watching and listening to the whole interaction, immediately interjected, “One hundred gold coins are okay. Just bring us to Treterra safely.”

Sollel snapped her eyes at Cira and chided, “Cira, one hundred gold coins are too much.”

“It’s okay,” Cira reassured Sollel. “I have lots of gold coins.” Then Cira looked at the hunter to say, “But you will get the payment in Treterra. Is that okay?”

The hunter nodded, his eyes never leaving the cloak-covered woman in front of him. “No problem.”

“All right.” Cira smiled. “Let’s talk to the administrator and register the task.”

Cira was already walking toward the guild’s front desk, but the hunter was still staring at the cloak-covered woman. It took him a full minute to pull himself together before he followed Cira.

Frowning, Sollel’s eyes followed the hunter and muttered, “Easy on the eyes, but impudent.”

The hunter, who already had his back on Sollel, chuckled and said, “I heard you, my lady.”

Sollel scowled and left the building to get away from the hunter, but it only lasted for a couple of minutes because Cira came out of the guild’s building with the hunter in tow.

“All right,” Cira clasped her hands and smiled. “Let’s be polite and introduce ourselves properly since we will be traveling together. I’ll start. I’m Ciradyl, an elf. You can call me Cira if Ciradyl is too long for you.”

Sollel did not want to be impolite, so she introduced herself after Cira. “You can call me El.” She didn’t give the hunter her full name for safety purposes.

The hunter offered his hand as he introduced himself, but only to Sollel. “My name is Hakken. An expert hunter who’s pleased to meet you, my lady.”

Cira was amused at Hakken, but not Sollel.

“Let’s leave tomorrow, early in the morning,” said Sollel, not accepting Hakken’s hand. “Our meetup place is here, outside the guild’s building. See you.” Then Sollel grabbed Cira’s hand and dragged her back to the inn.

While Hakken had a pleased smile on his lips. “El, huh? ‘My lady’ suits her better,” he muttered and went back to the guild.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 6

SOLLEL, Cira, and Hakken left the town of Ashmire early in the morning in a wagon after readying their provisions for their travel. The three were headed for the Kingdom of Treterra, and according to Hakken, they needed to pass three towns before they reach the City of Ager, the capital of the Kingdom of Treterra. Based on the movement of the wagon, it would be a long journey, but at least, they were safe.

The wooden wagon that Hakken brought had a canopy, so it would be easy for them to rest; it had become Cira’s new favorite place to sleep. Hakken and Sollel sat on the front, manning the wagon and reining the horse.

Hakken told Sollel a couple of times to get in the wagon and rest like what Cira was doing, but Sollel declined. She had trust issues, and she didn’t trust the hunter. What if he brought them to some unknown place? She had to stay alert.

After staying alert for three days straight, Sollel started to get tired and sleepy, and Hakken could see that. Sollel’s head was wobbling while trying to fight her sleepiness, and she would immediately sit up straight after realizing she had fallen asleep.

Hakken sighed. “My lady, you should sleep inside.”

“I’m fine. And please stop calling me ‘my lady.’ I prefer to be called El.” Sollel spoke sternly.

“You’re ‘my lady’ to me.”

Sollel didn’t argue anymore because she was really tired.

“You know, my lady, you have to talk to me if you didn’t want to fall asleep,” Hakken said with a smile. “You’d been awake for three days. I sometimes wonder what kind of person are you. Even I sleep at night to rest—” Hakken’s words halted when he saw his lady’s head dropping.

Hakken swiftly caught his lady’s head and carefully guided her body to sit upright, waiting for her to wake up. When she didn’t, Hakken scooted closer to El—but with a safe and appropriate distance so his lady wouldn’t think badly of him—and let his lady’s head rest on his shoulder so she could sleep better. Hakken even signaled the horse pulling the wagon to slow down a bit so his lady could comfortably sleep.

Hakken’s hold on the horse’s rein tightened when he felt his lady beside him scooting closer to him. She felt soft and warm, and she smelled nice. He had to keep taking deep breaths to control himself and focus on the road. This was a long journey, and if this kept up, Hakken was not sure if he could keep his mind sane before reaching Treterra.

Meanwhile, inside the wagon, Cira was not really asleep. She was watching the two on the front and couldn’t help smiling seeing Queen Sollel leaning on Hakken. According to the stories, the queens of Yther didn’t have lovers because no one was worthy of them.

Cira grinned mischievously and thought, With Hakken’s handsome face, strength, and body, he is definitely worthy to be Queen Sollel’s first lover. But Cira’s smiled slowly disappeared when she remembered how indifferent the queen was toward Hakken. She knew Queen Sollel would never waste her precious time on a man. They had an important mission to do.

I should stop thinking about pairing them, Cira scolded herself. I should focus on my sacred stone research so I can help Queen Sollel.

Taking a deep breath, Cira closed her eyes and went back to sleep, while Hakken continued to suffer from his lady’s closeness. He was a very healthy man after all.

---

SOLLEL WOKE up leaning on Hakken’s shoulder. It was already night, and the wagon was pulled over meters away from the path to not block other travelers passing through. As Sollel sat up straight, she saw the horse resting, and Cira was nowhere to be seen.

“Where’s Cira?” Sollel asked as she fixed herself.

Hakken handed her a piece of bread. “She said she needs some personal time.”

Sollel accepted. “How long has it been?”

“Half an hour?”

“And you didn’t check up on her?” Sollel gave back the bread before jumping down from the wagon.

“I didn’t want to leave you,” Hakken reasoned, his eyes following Sollel. “And this path is safe. No bandits or beasts.”

Sollel didn’t listen to Hakken and was about to go after Cira when she felt that familiar draining of her strength.

Moonrite! Sollel staggered back.

“You okay, my lady?”

“I’m fine.” Sollel tried to stand straight, but her strength was being drained fast that she couldn’t help it when her body swayed and fell on her knees. The empire found us again?

Hakken hurriedly jumped down from the wagon, seeing Sollel fell to the ground, on her knees. “My lady!”

Just when Sollel’s strength was down to its last drop, the feeling of her strength being drained disappeared. But before she could recover, she saw Cira come out of the woods, holding the sealing pouch in her hand.

Immediately after Sollel understood what happened, Cira saw Sollel being supported by Hakken.

“Your Highness!” Cira ran to Sollel with worry. “What happened?”

Sollel reached out her hand to tap the sealing pouch as her answer to Cira, and Cira instantly understood what Sollel meant.

“I’m so sorry!” Cira kneeled on the ground in front of Sollel to show her sincerity. “I left the wagon so I could inspect the stone and study it. I thought I was in a safe distance.”

Sollel sighed and pulled Cira up. “Stop kneeling. I’m fine.”

Cira was still worried. “Are you feeling better now?”

Sollel nodded. “Yes, I’m fine. Go back to the wagon and rest. We will leave early tomorrow.”

Cira’s shoulders fell as she went back to the wagon and rested, while Sollel took a deep breath and was about to go back to the wagon as well when a piece of bread appeared before her.

“You should eat.” It was the same bread Hakken gave her earlier. “And then have a good rest. We’re still in the Infernal Empire. This path we’re taking to Treterra is not dangerous to travelers. But three days from now, we’ll be entering the Kingdom of Treterra and trust me, it’ll be a dangerous journey then.”

Sollel silently accepted the bread and went back to the wagon’s front, while Hakken just shook his head at how indifferent his lady was. Though uncaring as she appeared, she was worried about her companion, Cira.

Looks like my lady has a heart after all. Hakken smiled and went back to the front of the wagon as well and sat beside Sollel with a safe distance.

While eating the bread Hakken gave her, Sollel heard Hakken speak. “Your Highness, huh?”

Sollel halted from biting the bread to glance at Hakken. “Don’t mind Cira. I’m no highness.”

“All right.” Hakken didn’t press for more, and Sollel was grateful for that. But he added, “But you’re definitely ‘my lady,’” annoying Sollel.

“I am not your lady.”

Hakken just smiled and started eating his dried meat provision and offered it to Sollel. “Want some, my lady?”

“No, thank you.”

Hakken shrugged and continued eating. Then after a while, as the night deepened, they could hear Cira snore from the back of the wagon. Hakken turned to Sollel.

“It’s humid even at night. You can rest in the back and take off your cloak.” Hakken raised his right hand like he was promising. “Hunter’s honor, I won’t peak.”

“I’m good.”

Hakken sighed at El’s short answers. “You know, too much heat can make you light-headed.”

That phrase actually made Sollel smile inwardly. “I’m okay with heat.”

Hakken sighed again. He could feel it; he knew when someone didn’t want to talk, and that’s the feeling El was giving him. She didn’t want to talk, so to respect that, he closed his mouth and just focused on his dried meat.

Hakken was used to silence. He liked silence. But beside his lady, he couldn’t seem to shut up. It seemed to him that he enjoyed talking to her even though her answers were short. Her voice was stern but pleasing to his ears.

Hakken sighed at that. Since when did a voice become a reason for his interest? Shaking his head, he leaned on the side of the wagon and closed his eyes.

While Hakken was asleep, Sollel slightly pulled back her hood, just enough to show her face, and glanced at Hakken to study the hunter.

Traveling with Hakken for a few days now, Sollel couldn’t shake the feeling of familiarity, as if she had seen this hunter before, though that’s impossible because she had been imprisoned half of her life. But his face was indeed familiar, like she had seen it already back in the day. It’s one of the reasons she approached him in the guild of hunters.

It’s a shame that she couldn’t remember all the miniscule details of her life before the siege. Maybe she had seen him before, and the fact that Hakken didn’t feel human to her fits her suspicion. That’s why she couldn’t let her guard down around this hunter like how she did with Cira.

“My lady, if you keep staring at my face, I might blush.”

Sollel hastily put her hood on and pretended that she was not staring at the hunter, while the hunter just smiled and went back to resting.

After a while, Sollel got bored being the only one awake. She got off the wagon and started stretching her arms and body, and then she picked up a tree branch from the ground and started practicing her sword skill, pretending that the tree branch was a sword.

Her sword skill had become rusty. If Gatria found out about this, she’d scold her for sure. Out of the four queens of Yther, Gatria was the one who exceled in sword fighting the most. Sollel learned all her sword kills from Gatria to help her have better control of her flame.

Unbeknownst to Sollel, while she was practicing her sword skill, a hunter was subtly watching, admiring her stance and her graceful movement. He was enthralled.

---

“WE’RE ABOUT TO enter the Kingdom of Treterra,” Hakken said, like he was warning the two women in the wagon with him. “This is the only path to the town of Belrac, one of the towns we need to pass to get to the City of Ager. It’s dangerous, but the shortcuts are more treacherous, so stay alert. We’re not stopping to rest at night like we used to these past few days.”

Both Sollel and Cira nodded.

“Cira, you should stay inside the wagon,” Hakken advised. “A pretty elf like you is a target for slavery.”

Sollel’s hand inside her cloak clenched. “I thought they only take halflings as slaves.”

“In the Infernal Empire, that might be the case, but not in other kingdoms,” said Hakken. “They don’t really care if you’re a halfling or not. As long as you are a ‘monster’ in their book and can give them a good profit, they will catch you and sell you.”

Cira hurriedly went inside the wagon and wrapped herself with a thick cloak.

“Monster.” Sollel clenched hand tightened even more. “Define monsters.”

“Anything that is not human,” Hakken gave it to El straight. “Humans have been a prosperous and supreme race for more than a century now, and to them, if you’re not human, then you’re categorized as a monster.”

Sollel could feel her fist heating up, her blood boiling with rage. “And where do you stand in all of this?”

Hakken glanced at the woman beside him. “My lady, human or not, as long as they have conscience, I’m good with that.”

Sollel took a deep breath to control her anger. “The town Belrac…what kind of town is it?”

Hakken was silent for a few seconds before he said, “You should see for yourself, my lady.”

Sollel gritted her teeth, and a tensed atmosphere fell on the whole wagon as they entered a forest. After traveling on the plains, this was the first forest they entered, and Sollel immediately sensed danger.

Only a few meters from the forest’s entrance, from out of nowhere, a halfling came running in their direction. He was ragged and exhausted, and he was asking for help.

“Help! Help me! Please help me!”

“Stop the wagon,” Sollel ordered Hakken.

Hakken was against it. “My lady, this is obviously a trap.”

“I know. Just stop the wagon.”

Hakken sighed and pulled the horse’s rein to make it stop. And the moment they did, from the trees, bandits with burly bodies appeared one after another, blocking their path.

“Great,” Hakken muttered with thick sarcasm.

“You did a good job, halfling,” the tallest bandit with the burliest body complemented the halfling before smacking the halfling’s head. “Now beat it.”

The halfling hesitated for a bit before facing the man who smacked his head. “Y-you promised y-you’ll give me money if I stopped them.”

The bandit laughed, like he was taunting the halfling. “And you believed that?”

“You promised!” The halfling looked like he was ready to cry.

“Well, I lied.” The bandit grinned deviously. “What are you going to do about it?”

The halfling knew he didn’t have a fighting chance against the Thew Bandits, but he still attacked their leader out of anger and desperation, and as expected, the halfling was beaten up to a pulp.

Sollel’s flame was ready to burn the scums in front of her when she felt Hakken jumped down from the wagon. While pulling out the war blades on his back, he asked “What’s your order, my lady?”

Seeing Hakken’s broad back, his hands both holding war blades, Sollel smiled at how reliable he looked.

“Kill them all, except for the halfling.”

Hakken smiled. “By your will, my lady.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 7

SOLLEL JUST watched Hakken face the bandits alone; even Cira was peeking outside the wagon to see Hakken fight. Since he boasted that he was an experienced hunter—an expert—and this was the first time they’d see Hakken’s skills, Cira was excited, while Sollel was anticipating. And when the bandits saw that it was just one man fighting a dozen of them, they laughed at the absurdity.

“You better run, boy,” the leader of the bandit sneered mockingly at Hakken. “What can one man do against a dozen of us? Just give us what we want, and we might spare your life.”

Hakken’s smile remained. “Sorry, lads, but not today. My lady is watching.”

The claymore sword in the bandit’s hand made a loud whoosh when he drew his sword from his back. “Be ready to die then,” the leader of the bandits said as he grinned. “Men, chop him into pieces and paint the ground with his blood!”

“Don’t play hero and just give us what we want, boy,” said another bandit while walking toward Hakken. “Or we will show no mercy.”

“I’m no hero,” Hakken replied as he straightened his body. “But disappointing my lady is out of the question.” After Hakken spoke those words, in a heartbeat, he stepped, lunging himself forward and slashing the nearest bandit from him, blood spewing from the bandit’s neck.

All the bandits showed fear after witnessing the quick death of their companion by Hakken’s hand, except for the leader who remained observant. And like a tide, the rest of the bandits attacked Hakken simultaneously, but no panic was seen in Hakken’s eyes. He was calm, just observing the enemies as they neared him.

Sollel was impressed when no sword hit Hakken. His movements were fast and sharp. He wielded his war blades as if they were a part of him, arrogantly spinning his sword around his hand before slashing to get the right angle. His agile body easily evaded the swords coming at him, his swords repelling attacks like they were nothing. Blow after blow, the sound of swords clashing echoed in the forest, together with grunts and hisses from pain every time Hakken’s sword would slash an enemy. And the longer Sollel watched, the more she realized that Hakken was not fighting seriously. He was like a master swordsman holding back while fighting novices.

“He’s so fast,” Cira commented.

Sollel had to agree with Cira: Hakken was indeed fast and agile. If they fought, even at full strength, Sollel was not sure if her sword skills could keep up with Hakken’s. Even now that Hakken was just playing around, her eyes could barely keep up with his movements.

“J-just who are you?” the leader of the bandits asked with a shaky voice, gone the confidence he showed earlier after seeing his men sprawled on the ground, dead. It was too quick that the leader of the bandits didn’t have time to run.

Swinging his bloody sword, Hakken turned to look at Sollel. To her, he seemed to be asking permission to give his name to the leader of the bandits, but she didn’t know what to say, so she remained quiet.

“My lady, should I give him my name?” Hakken asked, stunning Sollel because her deduction of Hakken’s expression earlier had been right.

Seeing how nonchalant Hakken was, the bandit leader’s anger rose. He then quickly attacked Hakken. “Don’t belittle me, boy!”

Hakken easily dodged the bandit leader’s claymore and shrugged nonchalantly. “My lady owns me till we reach the capital of Treterra. Of course her permission is necessary.”

Sollel just shook her head at Hakken’s nonchalance. “Stop wasting time. We need to keep moving.”

Hakken faced Sollel and slightly bowed his head, saying, “By your will, my lady.”

Sollel just sighed, seeing how Hakken quickly took care of the leader of the bandits. He even cleaned up his own mess afterward, burning the corpses so it wouldn’t rot and cause pestilence. And while Hakken was cleaning up, Cira gave some medicine to the halfling and brought him to their wagon for interrogation.

“What’s your name?” Cira asked the halfling who kept glancing at Hakken, fear visible in his eyes.

“L-Len…”

“Where are you from, Len?” Cira continued her interrogation while the wagon was moving.

“I-I’m from a small village outside B-Belrac,” Len replied, his voice shaking in fear. “I-I’m sorry! I s-swear I only did that f-for my family! They promised m-me money…p-please don’t kill me. Please…”

Hakken turned his head to look at the halfling and frowned when he saw the fear in the halfling’s eyes while glancing at him. Hakken turned to Sollel who as beside him and asked, “What did I do to scare him like that?”

Sollel looked at Hakken flatly. Of course, Hakken couldn’t see it because of her hood, but he felt Sollel’s dry stare.

“What?” Hakken asked.

“You killed a dozen bandits,” said Sollel. “Of course he’ll be scared.”

“You told me to,” Hakken defended himself. “Your wish is my command, my lady.”

Sollel sighed. She really didn’t know if Hakken was serious or if he was just pulling her leg. She might have been imprisoned half of her life, but she knew when a man was flirting, and Hakken had been doing that since they first met. She was not just taking him seriously. And she had a mission to do; she can’t afford distractions.

“M-my sister has been taken as a slave by the Duves family.” The halfling’s voice was still shaking in fear as he explained, “I have to earn money to get her back. P-please, don’t kill me. Please!”

“Who’s the Duves family?” Cira asked.

It was Hakken who answered, “The Duves family is one of the families that secretly control the slave traders in Belrac…and also one of the nastiest.”

Sollel grimaced. “How far are we to Belrac?”

“Few more weeks, my lady.”

Cira sighed and looked at Sollel. “Your Highness, can Len stay with us until we reach Belrac? I want to give him money to save her sister.”

Hakken cleared his throat, while Sollel nodded and said, “Do whatever you think is right for you, Cira.”

Cira smiled at Sollel. “Thank you, Your Highness.”

Hakken just sighed and just signaled the horse to run faster.

♕♕♕

TWO DAYS AFTER they entered the forest, they finally arrived at a small village. Passing on the village street in their wagon, Sollel couldn’t help her heart from aching when she saw ghastly halflings being lashed and forced to work, their eyes hallowed like they had given up. Slave traders pulled demi-humans, from young to old, by their slave collars. It was too horrible that Sollel’s body was trembling with rage.

Back when Yther was still a prominent country, halflings, demi-humans, monsters, and every creature in Azitera were harmoniously living together. Ytherian respected every race, and they would open their country’s gate to every creature of the land. It was a peaceful time.

So seeing what the halflings and demi-humans had become, Sollel was about to combust in rage when Hakken spoke, snapping Sollel out of her anger.

“Calm down, my lady,” said Hakken while guiding the horse to pull the wagon to a decent inn. “Your anger can’t help them escape this life. Even if we kill every slave trader in this village, another one will come and take their place. These halflings and demi-humans have nowhere else to go. Sooner or later, they will be captured again, and the cycle continues.”

Len, who heard Hakken, even voiced out his agreement. “Our lands had been stolen by humans, and no human territory would accept us. Even if we did make our own settlement deep in the forest, bandits and slave traders will still attack us and catch us. We have nowhere else to go.”

A tear fell from Sollel’s eyes as she clenched her fists. “We just want to live in peace…” Sollel gritted her teeth in anger and said, “How could they be so cruel?”

“Greed, my lady.”

Greed. Sollel knew that word too well. She was imprisoned—her blood stolen and drained—because of greed. Yther was destroyed because of human avarice. She suddenly remembered why she swore in her prison that would never forgive them.

I will burn them all! she thought. They will all pay for what they did.

“We’re here,” Hakken announced after they arrived in front of an inn. “Come on, let’s rest here for the night. Then we’ll leave early tomorrow.”

Sollel quietly jumped down from the wagon; she was still boiling with rage. She understood Hakken’s words earlier, but she just wouldn’t accept that she couldn’t do anything to save them. She once protected them, and now that she’s back, she would protect them again. Even if it’s futile.

When Sollel and Cira entered the inn, Hakken put his arm on Len’s shoulder and whispered in his ear. Hearing this request of Hakken, the scariest man Len had ever met, Len immediately nodded and left to do Hakken’s bidding.

When Hakken entered alone, Cira frowned. “Where’s Len?” He was barely a teen; Cira was worried.

“Just doing some errands. He’ll be back,” Hakken said as he positioned himself behind El, like he was protecting her back.

“But it’s dangerous out there.”

“He’ll be fine,” Hakken said reassuringly. “Don’t worry about it.”

Cira sighed and faced the woman managing the inn. “Two rooms with two beds please.”

The woman nodded and handed them a key. “That would be two silver coins.”

“That’s expensive,” Cira complained, the same elf who agreed to pay Hakken one hundred gold coins. But it was indeed expensive since ten silver coins were worth one gold coin. Usually in inns like these, their rent ranged from forty to eighty coppers only.

One hundred copper coins were equal to one silver coin, and ten silver coins were equal to one gold coin.

Cira gave one of the two keys to Hakken. “It’s yours and Len’s room.”

Hakken accepted it while his eyes were still on his lady. She was silent since they arrived at the inn. Hakken couldn’t help but be alert.

Even Cira noticed Sollel’s silence. So when the two entered their room, Cira asked Sollel, “Are you still feeling bad because of what we saw, Your Highness?”

Sollel took off her hood and smiled at Cira. “I’m fine, Cira. Don’t worry. You should rest. We have to leave early tomorrow.”

Cira did not buy that, but she didn’t press for more and went to rest on the bed. Sollel, on the other hand, lay until she was sure that Cira was already deep in her sleep. That’s when she left her bed and the room through the window, her hood on.

When Sollel’s feet touched the ground, she was surprised to see Hakken lazily leaning against the inn’s wall, below her room’s window. He seemed to be waiting for someone.

Sollel straightened her body and glanced at Hakken. “What are you doing outside?”

Hakken looked at her and smiled. “Well, I can’t leave my lady to fight by herself.”

Sollel’s lips thinned when she realized Hakken had anticipated her action. “You said saving them is futile.”

“Yes, it is.” Hakken pushed himself away from the inn’s wall and walked toward Sollel. “But…if that’s what you want, I’ll help.”

“Why?”

A small smile once again played on Hakken’s lips. “Why? Because you’re my lady, of course. You hired me to fight for you.” Then his expression turned serious. “If you want them dead, just say the word, and by your will, I will kill them all.”

That actually made Sollel smile. “How sweet.”

Hakken grinned wryly. “You are the only woman I know who finds that sweet.”

Sollel shrugged and started walking. Hakken immediately followed behind her.

Sollel frowned when, after walking for a few meters, she realized that Hakken was purposely walking behind her. “You can walk beside me, Hakken.”

“That’s the first time you called me by my name,” Hakken replied as he picked up the pace and walked beside Sollel. “My name sounded different when you say it, my lady.”

“Stop flirting and focus,” Sollel demanded, dismissing Hakken’s flirtatious attitude and words.

That made Hakken chuckle, but he became serious as per his lady’s request. “I sent Len to talk to other halflings and demi-humans earlier to gather some information for us.”

Sollel halted and glanced at Hakken. “You really know what I was planning to do?”

“I felt your rage, and it’s the kind of rage that is not easy to put out.” Hakken faced Sollel. “According to Len, there are two major slave traders in this village—the Nollane family who controls the slave trading for halflings and the Canson family who controls the slave trading for demi-humans. The Nollane’s base is in the south, and the Canson’s is in the north of the village. Both families have an army patrolling around, and they are all bandits. Expect a large number of enemies.”

“We have to destroy their base at the same time, but before that, we have to free those slaves,” said Sollel, “I’ll take the Nollane’s family.”

Hakken nodded. “Then I’ll take the Canson’s.”

Without hesitation, the two parted on the street.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 8

A DARK FIGURE blending into the night entered the Canson’s estate unnoticed. Every guard that the figure passed by dropped to the ground without much of a fight. How could they fight? Before they could draw their swords, one of Hakken’s blades had already slashed them. Hakken knew it’d be better to sneak in and not cause disturbance, but his lady ordered, “Destroy them.” Of course by his lady’s will, he would.

It was already past midnight; the moon was high, and the thick smell of blood surrounded the whole Canson’s estate. Anyone who tried to stop Hakken met their demise, and the whole Canson’s estate was in chaos.

“Don’t let him come any further!” screamed the head of the Canson’s house who was woken up by the commotion Hakken caused. “Kill him! Kill him now!”

The Canson’s hired men immediately surrounded Hakken. They believed in their numbers, but they were nothing but a small fry to him.

“Kill him!” The head of the Canson’s house felt as if his head were about to burst with anger. This man whom they didn’t know just entered their estate and started causing havoc. He couldn’t be reasoned with, and all his men met their end with his blade.

Hakken looked at the men surrounding him and sighed. “Come on, I don’t have all night. I still have to go see my lady.”

The men felt insulted at Hakken’s nonchalance that they all mindlessly attacked.

Spreading his arms, Hakken didn’t even move from where he was standing and just waited for his enemies. Taking advantage of his war blades, he use one to block and the other to attack. With his quick footwork that could evade any attack, his powerful slashes that could cut a man in half, and his strength that no one could penetrate, he made the head of the Canson’s house back away in fear.

Now the men that the head of the Canson’s house was depending on were all dead by the hands of one man.

Trying to escape, the head of the Canson’s house tripped on his own foot and fell on his back. He trembled in fear after seeing the blood dripping from Hakken’s sword.

No one had ever raised their swords on the Canson’s family. Everyone was docile and wanted to be connected to them because of the profit they could give, but all of that meant nothing now.

“W-What do you w-want? I-l’ll give it a-all to y-you…p-please don’t k-kill me,” the head of the Canson’s house begged. “I’ll g-g-give you a-all my m-money. J-just spare m-my l-life.”

Hakken sighed at the pathetic sight of the person in front of him. “Free the slaves.”

The head of the Canson’s family paused for a second before he started laughing hysterically. “All this for those worthless slaves?! Pathetic! Pathetic!” The man continued his hysterical laughter. “You made the Canson’s family your enemy for those worthless and filthy halflings?! You will pay for this, do you hear me?! You will not get away with this!”

Hakken expression darkened, and the blade on his right hand swung and slashed the neck of the Canson’s head of the house, beheading him in an instant. “That’s for calling my lady pathetic.” Hakken clicked his tongue as the head rolled on the floor, and then he left and went inside the Canson’s house, looking for the halflings.

When Hakken didn’t find any, he stepped out and started searching in the whole property until he saw a small house with a chained lock on the door.

Swinging his sword, Hakken slashed the chain lock and pushed the door open. He stopped when he saw trembling halflings, fearful for their lives. And they even became more scared when they saw Hakken’s sword covered with blood.

Hakken quickly put away his sword on his back and spoke. “Everyone in the Canson’s estate is dead. You’re free.”

No one moved even though they knew the man was speaking the truth. Their slave collars had opened, meaning their owner had died.

Hakken sighed. “Look, you can leave and be free, or stay here and be caged.”

“F-free?” the oldest of the bunch said with a trembling voice. “What is that? Even if we leave here, we will still be hunted and caged. We will never be free!”

Everyone nodded. They all have given up on their freedom.

Hakken expression darkened. “Honestly, I don’t care what you all do from here on out. My order is to free all of you, and I completed it. But my lady who’s fighting for all of you has not given up yet, and it will break her heart if you didn’t escape. So stand up and leave this village, or I will add your body to the pile of dead bodies outside.”

Every eye inside the small house widened in fear, but they also felt gratitude toward the lady the man was talking about.

“Go to Adral,” Hakken advised. “It’s a region under the Infernal empire. They accept halflings there. If you can get there, you’ll be free. Travel light and don’t use the normal travel route to avoid bandits and slave traders.” Hakken pulled a map from his small leather pouch and gave it to the oldest of the halflings. “Here, let this be your guide. Leave and stay in the forest on the north. Wait for the demi-humans that my lady is saving at the moment. Then you all can leave together.”

Hakken turned around and was about to leave when the oldest of the halflings asked hesitantly, “W-why are you helping us?”

“It’s my lady’s will,” Hakken answered and left, headed south, to the Nollane’s family base.

Hakken wanted to give his lady a hand, but when he arrived at the Nollane’s estate, the whole place was burning. The mansion had been devoured by flames, and in the middle of that blistering destructive fire was a figure clad in dark red cloak, her long wavy dark red hair was swaying with the flames, unharmed and unburnt.

The woman, Sollel, walked through the fire, toward Hakken. And at every step she took, the flames acted as if they had a will of their own, parting and giving way to their mistress.

Before Sollel reached Hakken, she put her hood to hide her hair and eyes.

“I like what you did with the place,” Hakken commented, trying to lighten up the tense atmosphere.

Under the hood, Sollel smiled. “Thank you. How about on your end?”

“Done,” Hakken answered. “They’re waiting on the north side of the forest so they could leave together.”

Sollel was pleased with the outcome. “I will inform them.”

Sollel went back to the blazing flame. It parted as she passed, and Hakken just watched his lady disappear into the fire. Moments later, Hakken saw Sollel walking back toward him.

“I already informed them,” Sollel happily reported to Hakken as she neared him. “Thank you for your help. I owe you.”

“You can show me your face and call it quits,” Hakken teased Sollel while a playful smile was plastered on his lips.

“Maybe some other time,” Sollel answered and started walking toward their inn, while Hakken immediately followed Sollel and walked beside her.

As they treaded their path, Hakken decided to break the silence and commented, “The weather is nice.” Then he scolded himself for opening a conversation in the most common way.

Sollel glanced at Hakken. She was a little bit amused, so she played along. “Yeah. The moon is bright.”

Hakken ran his fingers through his hair. “Don’t tease me, my lady.”

Sollel just chuckled and continued walking in silence, while Hakken stopped to stare at his lady’s back. Her long wavy dark red hair was something Hakken could never forget—and of course, the sweltering flame that swallowed the Nollane’s whole estate.

That flame… Hakken’s expression became grim.

“Come on, Hakken,” Sollel called out. “We have to leave early later.”

Hakken quickly picked up his pace and smiled at Sollel.

The two returned to the inn without anyone knowing that they left and that they were the ones who destroyed the slave traders in the village.

Sitting on her bed, Sollel looked at her hands and willed her flame to cover them fully. It didn’t take a second before the flame ignited in her hands. Seeing her flame danced on her palm like it was happy, Sollel clenched her fist and extinguished the fire in her hands.

She finally recovered one-eighth of her strength, hence the destruction she caused in Nollane’s estate. Sollel was happy that she could finally manipulate her flame to some extent, but she was perplexed because she didn’t do anything special to recover them. Even after crossing the ash terrain and being soaked in that kind of heat, her strength didn’t heighten…so what’s going on now?

All she did these past few weeks was travel with Cira and Hakken—nothing more. She didn’t consume anything that could recover a fraction of her strength that fast. Even taking Cira’s essence didn’t do much.

Think, Sollel, Sollel urged herself. What have you consumed these past few weeks?

But however Sollel tried, nothing came to mind. She would surely remember if she had eaten something special. Even after Sollel she woke up, she couldn’t get it out of her head that she kept thinking about it until they started traveling again.

On the road, like usual, Hakken handed Sollel a piece of bread, and Sollel absentmindedly accepted it. She was already used to Hakken providing her bread every morning.

“Just how much bread do you have?” Sollel asked Hakken while eating.

Hakken tapped the small and plain leather pouch tied to his waist. “Just enough.”

“A magical pouch?”

Hakken nodded. “Unlike Cira’s magical satchel, my pouch can hold food without rotting.”

“Must be expensive,” Sollel commented while eating the bread.

“I’m a hunter. I’m always on the road, so I have to invest on a good magical vessel for my food.”

Sollel nodded. “How long have you had this bread?” Sollel sounded interested that anyone would think that she was just striking conversation because she was curious. “Have you had this bread even before you met us in Ashmire?”

“Yes,” Hakken replied as he focused his attention on the road and reigning the horse.

“Such an incredible pouch you have.” Sollel continued eating, and when Hakken was not looking, Sollel tore the remaining bread in half and hid the other half for her investigation and analysis.

Sollel was not a careless woman; she always minded her surroundings, always trying her best to remember all the little details concerning her and her companions.

“My lady?”

“Yes?”

As usual, Hakken and Sollel was in the wagon’s front, while Cira and Len were on the back, resting.

“My lady, once we reach Belrac, are you planning to continue what we started in that village?”

“Continue freeing the slaves?”

“Yes.”

“I wanted to, but I have to be vigilant.” Sollel knew what she needed to do in order to reach Gatria safely. She knew that after what she did in that village, soldiers of the Infernal Empire would come looking for her for sure. She needed to avoid them.

“So you’re going to turn a blind eye on them?” Hakken asked.

“Of course not,” Sollel replied as she finished her bread and glanced at Hakken. “I’ll order you to save them, of course.”

Hakken smiled wryly. “My lady, I can defeat anyone with a sword, but if the enemy camp has a sorcerer, then I’m toast since they like to fight from a very safe distance…and I’m a close combat warrior. I hate them.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Sollel said reassuringly. “If they have a wizard, I’ll lend you a hand.”

“With your flame?”

Sollel knew that after what Hakken saw in the Nollane’s estate, it’s too late to deny it. “Yes. My flame with guard you.”

“If that is so,” Hakken replied, smiling at Sollel, “then by all means, my lady, use me as you like.”

Sollel looked at Hakken amusedly. “Use you, huh? I would gladly take your offer then. I will use you to destroy every slave trader we can find on our way to the capital of Treterra, the city of Ager, and free the slaves.”

Hakken stilled, and a wry smile appeared on his lips. Damn, he thought. That bit me right back in an instant. “By your will, my lady.”

Sollel secretly chuckled at the bitterness in Hakken’s voice, and then she subtly shook her head.

Seriously, what was Hakken thinking when he offered her to use him?

I hope not something lewd, Sollel thought to herself.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 9

GENERAL Adri was in the throne room of the Infernal Empire so early in the morning, reporting to His Majesty, who had a grim expression on his face the moment General Adri started his report.

“We still haven’t found her, Your Highness, but we are scouring the land, and we are not giving up. And just yesterday, I received an information from one of the elite squad of soldiers I sent to the borders of the empire. According to the information they gathered, two prominent slave traders in a small village in the borders of the Kingdom of Treterra has been destroyed.”

The emperor grimaced in disdain. “And I should care because?”

General Adri bowed his head even more. “One of the slave traders, the Nollane’s family… its estate had been mercilessly burned to the ground.”

The emperor’s eyes widened as he tried his best to conceal his emotions. “Was it her?”

“We believe so, Your Highness.” General Adri clenched his fist. “You can have my head for my incompetence, Your Highness. I am ready for my punishment!”

Emperor Gabrien gritted his teeth in anger. “How about you hunt her down and don’t come back until you capture her?!”

General Adri raised his head at the emperor in surprise. “You’re giving me another chance, Your Highness?”

Emperor Gabrien sneered at General Adri. “What do you think?! If the empire’s strongest general can’t even subdue that witch, then we will be ridiculed by the other kingdoms. So go out there, hunt her down, and don’t bring shame to the empire!”

General Adri bowed his head solemnly again. “Yes, Your Highness!”

Emperor Gabrien huffed after shouting at the general that he leaned on his chair and calmly asked, “Any news from my nephew?”

General Adri’s lips thinned in contempt at the mention of the warlord. “There was no news from him, Your Highness. I have no idea what he had been doing since he left his castle to hunt the Mistress of Flame.”

Emperor Gabrien waved his hand dismissively; he was very confident with his nephew’s ability. “I’m sure he will give us some good news soon. Just do your job properly and don’t mind my nephew.”

“Yes, Your Highness,” General Adri replied bitterly before leaving the throne room.

After General Adri left, Emperor Gabrien summoned his prime minister to the throne room.

“Your Highness,” Prime Minister Zasim Pavraz, the strongest sorcerer of the Infernal Empire, kneeled on one knee and bowed his head in front of the emperor. “How may I be of service?”

“Send an urgent letter to the three kingdoms. Inform them that the Mistress of Flame had escaped her moonrite prison and tell them to be vigilant and ready for anything. If we couldn’t drag the Mistress of Flame back to her prison as soon as possible, her strength will continue to grow, and a war might break out. Tell them to ready all the moonrite stones they have. As long as we have moonrite stones, we will rein Azitera.”

Prime Minister Zasim was surprised to hear His Majesty’s order to send an urgent letter. He had advised the emperor to inform the other leaders about the Mistress of Flame escaping her prison, but the emperor was against it before, as he wanted to protect the empire’s dignity.

Has the emperor finally realized the danger that woman brings? Prime Minister Zasim thought, delighted. But even though the Mistress of Flame was dangerous, she could still be captured again, like in the past. A moonrite stone was her weakness, and the empire had lots to spare. Maybe I can join the hunt and capture her myself to add another honor to my name.

“I will send the letters immediately,” Prime minister Zasim replied with a contented smile. “You can leave it to me, Your Highness.”

♕♕♕

CITY OF AGER, KINGDOM OF TRETERRA

At the capital of Treterra, an urgent letter addressed directly to King Maximilian Treterra, sent by the Infernal Empire, arrived at the castle. Before the letter was opened, King Maximilian convened his trusted advisors, nobles, and everyone who knew the existence of Yther’s queens in the throne room.

“Your Majesty,” said one of King Maximilian’s trusted advisors, Indu, as he handed the letter to the king in front of everyone.

King Maximilian accepted the letter and, while sitting on his throne, opened the letter and read its contents.

At the beginning of the letter, King Maximilian was still calm, but when he reached the middle, everyone could see how his hands trembled slightly. And at the end of the letter, the king couldn’t hide it any longer—he threw the letter to the floor in rage.

“Incompetent fool!” King Maximilian sneered, referring to Emperor Gabrien. “How could he let the Mistress of Flame escape?!”

Hearing the king’s words, loud murmurs filled the throne room. Everyone was whispering their theories and speculation until the king ordered them to be silent.

“They still don’t know where the Mistress of Flame is,” King Maximilian said, gritting his teeth in anger. “Fortify our borders, check every individual that comes into our kingdom, and strengthen the defense of Hallowed Valley.”

The king gave a hasty order after another. “If the Mistress of Flame is out and about, she would surely seek the other mistresses. Double the soldiers in Hallowed Valley prison and surround it with moonrite stone. Unlike the Infernal Empire, we will not let the Mistress of Nature escape! Her blood is a very important nutrient to our kingdom.”

Everyone bowed their heads and answered in unison, “Yes, Your Highness!”

♕♕♕

AZURE ISLAND, NAYALE ARCHIPELAGO

The letter from the Infernal Empire arrived in Azure Island, the capital of Nayale Archipelago, and all the nine island leaders convened to have an emergency conference in the grand hall of the royal estate of the head-tribe chief, Ravi. The nine island leaders were seated around the circular table where the map of the Nayale Archipelago was engraved on the table’s surface.

The Nayale Archipelago was composed of many islands, but only a few of those islands were habitable, as most were filled with beasts and poisonous plants. These habitable, prosperous islands were controlled and governed by the tribe chief of each island. These nine tribe chiefs were the decision-makers for the future of Nayane Archipelago, but the one who held the most power was the elected head chieftain, Ravi.

Behind every island leader around the table was their tribe’s most trusted sorcerers and sorceress. There had been an unrest between the tribe chiefs since the ceremony to elect a new head chieftain every decade was closing in. No one wanted to let their guards down.

“The Mistress of Flame has escaped her moonrite prison,” Head Chieftain Ravi informed everyone, and then he narrated the other contents of the letter sent by the Infernal Empire.

Aminu, one of the tribe chiefs, grimaced at the news. “What was the Infernal Empire doing, letting a prisoner like that escape?”

Sava, the tribe chief of Cerulean Island, sighed heavily. “We have to fortify Aqua Terra. We can’t let what happened to Infernal Empire happen to us. The Mistress of the High Seas is very important to our nation’s defense and prosperity. She has to remain in her prison in Aqua Terra.”

“Do not fret.” Head Chieftain Ravi spoke with confidence. “To get to Aqua Terra, one must pass three different kinds of ocean, and each one is dangerous and deadly. Without our secret passage to Aqua Terra, whoever tries to get to the prison would definitely die miserably.”

Everyone nodded except Chief Sava. “Do you really think it’s that easy to defend Aqua Terra? Unlike the other three kingdoms, we don’t have much moonrite stones in our disposal. The only moonrite stones we have are the ones in Aqua Terra prison. If the Mistress of Flame came to raze hell, do you really think we can defend our territory against her hellish flame just because we’re surrounded by the ocean?”

Half of the tribe chiefs present agreed with Sava after his earnest speech.

“The longer the Mistress of Flame is roaming free, the powerful she gets,” Aisha, the only female tribe chief, shared her worries. “Let me remind you all that that even though they had been imprisoned in a moonrite chamber for more than a century, it was not enough to fully incapacitate them. They’re like beasts. They are hibernating. And once the moonrite chain breaks, we’re all going to pay. That’s why we have to do something before we all get drowned with our sins.”

Head Chieftain Ravi glanced at Aisha with disdain. “Whatever you say, we will not do what you suggested the moment you became a tribe chief.” Chief Ravi half-scoffed and half-chuckled. “Free the Mistress of the High Seas and negotiate with her? Ha! Such naivety.”

Aisha gritted her teeth. “Then be ready to pay for our ancestors’ sins.”

Head Chieftain Ravi discarded Aisha’s warning as usual. “We will fortify Aqua Terra and patrol the seas for any suspicious individuals.”

Everyone agreed and nodded except Chief Sava and Chief Aisha, who blatantly disagreed with everyone in the grand hall, but their voices were not loud enough to be heard and listened.

♕♕♕

CAELUM CASTELLUM, KINGDOM OF CAELUM

Caelum Castellum, the sky castle, was the capital of the Kingdom of Caelum. It was the smallest kingdom of all, but the arrogance of their citizens and their monarchs were enough to fill the whole Azitera. When the letter from the Infernal Empire arrived, they made it wait even when it was urgent. Her Majesty, Queen Felice, moved in her own pace and convenience, and two weeks had passed since she gave the letter its due importance.

Convening all the nobles, the queen’s trusted herald read the letter out loud for everyone to hear. At the end of the letter, everyone was just calmly sipping their tea and enjoying their desserts like the letter did not concern them.

“Your Majesty,” Advisor Remiel—one of the advisors—said, kneeling on one knee in front of the queen, “what do we do?”

The queen haughtily waved her hand dismissively. “What could she do? We’re up in the sky. We are the one truly blessed by deities—no, we are the true gods and goddesses.”

“But the Mistress of Flame—”

“Is nothing but an insignificant little creature,” the queen interrupted. “We are a supreme race, loved and blessed by the deities. This Mistress of Flame is no match for us. Do not fret, my people. No one can take down our beloved and indestructible sky castle.”

Everyone present smiled and calmly raised their teacups in agreement with the queen, except Advisor Remiel. He held his tongue, even though he knew well it was a mistake not to do anything against the Mistress of Flame as early as now.

Commander Ethos, the commander of all the Kingdom of Caelum’s forces, leaned into the advisor a little and whispered, “Is there anything I can do to help?”

Advisor Remiel was relieved to hear that and invited the commander to leave the grand hall so they could speak seriously.

“Commander, you have to fortify the Skye swamp. Just for precautions.”

Commander Ethos nodded. “Leave it to me, and please forgive the queen. She’s still young, and she was raised as the Kingdom of Caelum’s goddess. Please bear with her.”

Advisor Remiel just nodded and said nothing against the queen because he knew how much Commander Ethos fancied Queen Felice. Only Commander Ethos could tolerate her when she was being unreasonable, just like earlier.

“Please excuse me,” Commander Ethos said before going back to the throne room.

Advisor Remiel remained standing in the balcony next to the throne room to look at the clouds surrounding their kingdom. It felt peaceful, but Advisor Remiel had a feeling that it wouldn’t be long until chaos would cover all of Azitera, from its lands to its skies. No one could escape.

And to stop this coming war from happening, all the kingdoms, including Caelum, must do everything in their power to stop the Mistress of Flame from recovering her strength and freeing the other mistresses.

Because if all Yther’s queens got out of their prison, chaos will reign Azitera—the Infernal Empire will burn, the Kingdom of Treterra will be devoured by famine, the Nayane Archipelago will sink, and the Kingdom of Caelum will fall…literally.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 10

ENTERING BELRAC, while waiting on the line to enter the gate of the town, Sollel, Hakken, and Cira found out from Len that identification was needed to enter the town. It was not a problem to Hakken and Cira, but to Sollel, it was a big dilemma. She had no identification to show; she was basically a suspicious individual.

Cira sat beside Sollel in the front of the wagon. Hakken walked beside it while holding the horse’s rein, giving Cira an ample space to sit on. He whispered to Sollel’s ear, “Your Highness, what are we going to do with your identification?”

“I have no idea,” Sollel whispered back.

Cira thought of ideas, and after a minute or so, she suggested, “Let’s bribe them, Your Highness! I have lots of money.”

Hakken, who was listening without the two realizing, interjected. “That will make you look even more suspicious. How about you just leave it to me, my lady?”

Cira and Sollel glanced down at Hakken at the same time.

“What are you planning to do, hmm?” Cira looked at Hakken with doubt. “If you endanger her highness, I will shoot you with my bow and arrow. I have a perfect aim, just saying.”

Hakken just smiled at Cira’s seemingly harmless threat before looking up at Sollel, who was sitting on the wagon’s front. “How’s your acting skills, my lady?”

“Horrible,” Sollel answered.

Hakken grinned. “Perfect.”

Sollel didn’t know what Hakken was planning until they arrived at the town’s gate. And in front of the two guards, Hakken suddenly offered his hand at Sollel like a gentleman offering his hand at a ball. “My lady, please.”

Sollel stilled for a split second before she remembered Hakken asking about her acting skills. Maybe this is it, Sollel assumed in her head. She was not sure what was happening and what was Hakken planning, but she accepted his hand anyway.

A hand of a warrior. It was Sollel’s first impression of Hakken’s hand. It had no callous, but it was hard, firm, and strong.

Sollel just played along with Hakken as he guided her to face the guards. She was silent, just watching and waiting how Hakken could help her pass.

“Identification?” one of the guards asked.

Sollel jumped a little when she felt Hakken’s arm wrapping around her waist, his expression was somewhat in pain while facing the guards. “Gentlemen, this is my wife and beloved, El.”

Good thing Sollel was wearing her hood and her face was hidden; if not, the guards would’ve seen how her eyes widened in shock at what she just heard.

Hakken continued his acting even though he felt Sollel stiffen. “We wanted nothing but to comply with the rules, but she didn’t have her identification with her right now. After we eloped, we ran away and had to leave everything behind so we could be together.” Hakken handed his identification pass and continued, “I can only show you mine. I’m so sorry. Please have mercy on my wife. We have been travelling to escape her parents. She is so terrified that she hasn’t taken off her cloak and hood, and we don’t know what we’ll do if we can’t enter Belrac to rest and stock up our supply before we start running again.”

Sollel didn’t know if it was because of Hakken’s acting skills or the foolishness of the guards that they were let through. The guards patted Hakken’s shoulder, saying, “You’re very brave, young man. Treasure your wife.”

Hakken nodded and smiled. “Of course. I fell in love with her at first sight after all.”

The guards seemed pleased at Hakken’s answer. Sollel, on the other hand, was starting to feel weird because Hakken’s arm was still around her waist.

“Hey! Don’t take advantage on Her Highness!” Cira hissed at Hakken and slapped his arm away from her waist. The two started bickering about Sollel, but still, Sollel hadn’t said a word and was still feeling uneasy because she couldn’t shake off that weird feeling.

Surely, she could push Hakken’s arm away from her after they passed the gate, but why didn’t she?

Usually, if it was a question about herself, Sollel had an immediate answer, but not this time—not that question. She had no answer.

Taking a deep breath, she controlled herself and went back to sit on the wagon.

Cira hissed and glared at Hakken, seeing Sollel being silent. “How could you use a lie like that?” Cira wanted to bash Hakken’s head on the pavement. “Her highness is a very delicate woman! How dare you say that you two are married?!”

Hakken scratched the back of his head and glanced at Sollel. “I’m sorry, my lady. That’s the only way I know how to enter the town without being suspicious.”

Sollel didn’t reply and remained silent until they reached the biggest tavern in town. Cira was still scowling at Hakken, while Hakken kept on glancing apologetically at Sollel.

Sollel, Cira, Hakken, and Len entered the tavern and occupied the table in the corner to avoid being seen. But before they could order, a young man, maybe the same age as Hakken, accompanied by two guards wearing a full mail and plate armor, walked toward Sollel’s table. The man had his eyes on Sollel—the woman wearing the dark red cloak.

Sollel’s hands resting on the table were graceful, her fingers delicate and beautiful. Since the young man had a hand fetish, he was practically salivating seeing Sollel’s hand. He immediately grabbed it and kissed it without asking for consent.

“My lady, how much do I have to pay for you to touch my erect rod with your beautiful hands?” the young man asked conceitedly, certain that Sollel would say yes.

Hakken’s blood boiled in anger when he saw what the man did to Sollel’s hand that he got up, ready to kill, ready to defend and save his lady, but Sollel beat him to it.

Before Hakken could even draw his sword, Sollel pulled her hand back and used it to slap the man who kissed it without her consent. And when Sollel’s rage was still not appeased, Sollel turned to Hakken, drew one of his swords, and used the flat part of the sword to smack the man out of her sight.

The people inside the tavern all grimaced when they saw the young man, Lord Tyon Duves, pathetically dropped on the floor, unconscious.

Seeing what happened to their lord, the two guards behind Lord Tyon Duves drew their swords to teach Sollel a lesson, but Sollel smacked their faces and necks with the flat part of the sword until they, too, lost consciousness like their lord.

Everyone in the tavern was in awe at what they just witnessed. Some even laughed and silently thanked the woman who taught Lord Tyon Duves a lesson. Everyone in Belrac was afraid to cross or offend Lord Tyon Duves, even though he was a well-known, wealthy gentleman who defiled women whenever he wanted to, without asking for consent, and the women couldn’t do anything about it because he had a powerful background.

“Could you please give us some warm water?” Cira asked the waiter who immediately provided what Cira requested.

The people inside the tavern were curious why the companion of the lady who smacked the three men unconscious wanted warm water. A few seconds later, they understood what it was for.

Cira used the warm water to wash Queen Sollel’s hand thoroughly, as if she was trying to get rid of some dirt left by trash. Everyone who saw it couldn’t help snickering and taunting the men who were still unconscious on the tavern’s floor.

After washing Sollel’s hand, Cira handed back the bowl to the waiter, and Hakken offered his hand at his lady.

“May I?”

Sollel accepted and placed her hand on Hakken’s palm. She just watched as Hakken took out a handkerchief and carefully dried her hand.

“Should we look for another tavern?” Hakken asked Sollel.

“Good idea.”

Hakken finished drying Sollel’s hand and returned his handkerchief to his drawstring pouch. “Then”—Hakken motioned her hand at the tavern’s door and slightly bowed his head like a gentleman—“my lady first.”

Sollel didn’t heed any attention to Hakken’s attempt to flirt again and left the tavern. Cira followed with Hakken behind. The last one to leave was Len, and he was scared for his life!

“What did you do?!” Len panicked and trembled, just like the first time they met the halfling. “Do you know who that man was? It was Lord Tyon Duves! He’s a very powerful man here in Belrac. One word from him and you’ll die!”

Hakken was neither scared nor impressed as he replied to Len’s panic, “I like to see him try.”

“But he’s Lord Tyon Duves!” Len exclaimed as if that name should carry weight and fear everyone who heard it. “He will surely make our lives a living hell here in Belrac after what Lady El did.” Len was too terrified to think clearly.

But Sollel didn’t really care and just continued walking toward their wagon, together with Cira who had a pleased smile on her lips because she saw how amazing Queen Sollel was again. It’s been a long time since Cira last saw her fight.

Roaming around the streets of Belrac, they finally found a tavern with a good atmosphere.

“So,” Cira said to Len after they ordered food, “how much money do you need to get your sister back?”

Len looked down at the table. “A lot.”

“Slaves usually cost one hundred to two hundred gold coins,” Hakken chimed in. “Depends on a slave’s value.” Hakken looked at Len.

“Depends on the value?” Sollel frowned. “What do you mean by that?”

Hakken answered with a shrug, “Halflings and demi-human slaves, especially the strong ones, are pretty expensive because of their fighting ability, while the weak and beautiful ones are sold for other reasons.”

“Such as?”

Hakken didn’t hold back his words and answered Sollel, “Prostitution.”

Sollel’s lips parted in shock. “Th-they’re being forced?”

Hakken shrugged. “My lady, remember what I told you about the Duves family?”

“Yes, you said they’re the nastiest—” Sollel didn’t continue her words when she realized what Hakken meant. Her fists clenched. “And Len’s sister might be…”

“That’s why I’m asking him.” Hakken glanced at Len who was trembling and crying because he, too, knew that there’s a big possibility that his sister was being forced to use her body for money and profit.

Sollel wanted to act immediately. She wanted to save as many as she could, but she didn’t know a thing about Belrac and the Duves family. If she wanted to destroy them, she needed information. She couldn’t act hastily or prematurely.

“Yey! Food!” Cira gleefully announced to lighten up the mood of the whole table. “Here, Your Highness, eat this. This is very delicious.”

Sollel just nodded and silently ate, while Hakken observed his lady’s movement. He knew that after what his lady learned, she’d do something about it—that’s just who she was. They hadn’t been together for long, but Hakken could already grasp his lady’s attitude and temperament.

Hakken would bet that behind his lady’s calm demeanor now, he was certain that she was angry.

And Hakken was right. Sollel was angry at these humans who thought highly of themselves. Her plans to burn them hadn’t changed.

After an early dinner, the four went to look for an inn. When they found one, they rented two rooms as usual. After a while, Cira went to see Len in his and Hakken’s room to talk about her sister, while Hakken went to Sollel and Cira’s room.

Sollel got up from lying on the bed and put on her cloak when she heard a knock .

“It’s Hakken, my lady.”

Sollel put on the hood of her cloak before opening the door. “You need anything?” Sollel asked reservedly.

Hakken smiled at Sollel, the kind of smile that says I’m planning something wicked . “Fancy visiting the red-light district with me?”

Sollel stared at Hakken for a long time without blinking before she finally pulled herself together and asked calmly, “Do you want to die by my hands?”

Hakken bit his lower lip, trying to suppress a smile, but his whole expression said it all. He looked amused at Sollel. “My lady, how could you threaten me like that? I’m hurt.”

Sollel narrowed her eyes at Hakken. “You just asked me to visit the red-light district with you,” Sollel said as if those words were enough to sentence Hakken to death with her flames.

“Yes, the red-light district is the best place to gather information about the Duves family.” Hakken couldn’t stop his teasing smile from showing this time. “My lady, you’re not thinking about obscene things, are you?”

Sollel was speechless.

“I would never do such a thing, my lady,” Hakken said with a smile, which Sollel found charming but impudent. “I’m a gentleman after all.”

“Why am I not buying it?” Sollel stepped out from her room and walked past Hakken. “Come on, let’s go to the red-light district.”

Hakken’s smile widened and instantly followed his lady.

The red-light district…what could go wrong?

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 11

SOLLEL SHIVERED involuntarily as she entered the red-light district together with Hakken. It was a good thing that she was covered with a cloak from head to toe, but her eyes…she couldn’t believe she was seeing obscene acts from left to right as they entered a large establishment filled with beautiful women, disorderly drunk men, and red lights.

Never in her long life did Sollel thought that a time would come that she would enter such a place in her own accord.

When they entered the large building, human women immediately flocked around them, especially around Hakken. With his tantalizing eyes and ripped body, it was not surprising. But what surprised Sollel was that when Hakken was pulled away from her by one of the human women surrounding them, she immediately grabbed Hakken’s hand to stop him.

Hakken stilled and turned around to look at El’s hand grabbing his tightly, as if she was telling him not to leave her alone. Feeling how tight Sollel was holding him, Hakken smiled and then spoke to the women around them. “Sorry, ladies, but my companion and I just want to drink and relax for the night.”

All the women around them scowled, and someone even said, “Then you should’ve gone to a tavern.”

As the women dispersed, a woman wearing a revealing dress went to greet them. “Good evening, gentlemen.” Her voice was melodious and sultry. “I am Ishya, the manager. Your first time?” The woman smiled seductively at Hakken. “May I help you?”

Sollel was still holding Hakken’s hand, so he felt it when Sollel gripped his fingers tightly like she was sending him a signal.

Hakken smiled and moved his hand to interlock his fingers with Sollel’s. “Could you guide us to a vacant room? My companion and I just really want to drink.”

Ishya’s eyes fell on Hakken’s and Sollel’s intertwined hands, and she immediately realized that the person wearing a cloak was a woman. Must be one of those couples who like to spice things up, Ishya thought and smiled before motioning her hands toward the staircase. “Please follow me.”

Sollel let out a breath of relief and pulled her hand from Hakken’s hold, but Hakken didn’t let her hand go, surprising Sollel. He even tightened his hold on her hand as he followed the woman to the staircase.

“My hand, please,” Sollel subtly whispered, enough for Hakken to hear, but Hakken just innocently smiled at her, enjoying whatever was happening at the moment.

But Sollel was not an easy woman. When Hakken didn’t want to let her hand go, as the Mistress of Flame, it was easy for her to make her hand feel like it was scorching. And within seconds, Hakken freed Sollel’s hand.

Pulling her hand back inside her cloak, Sollel saw Hakken giving her a “Really?” look, and it brought a smile to Sollel’s lips. Maybe if Hakken had seen that smile, he wouldn’t mind if Sollel burned his whole hand, but too bad Sollel had her hood on and her smile was hidden.

Ishya guided the two toward a vacant spacious room. It had a large bed, a dining table, and its own bathroom. But what caught Sollel’s and Hakken’s eyes were the platform at the center of the room.

“What is that for?” Hakken asked after Sollel nudged his arm.

Ishya smiled mysteriously. “It’s for our other guests. Do not worry about it.”

Sollel nudged Hakken’s arm again, so Hakken continued asking, “We’re new in town and new to this place. Is there a way to fully enjoy our night here? We’ve been married for so many years, and we just want to spice things up a bit, you know what I mean?”

Sollel took a deep breath after hearing Hakken’s explanation. Why is it that he always uses the words “we’re married” to lie?

Ishya raised her left eyebrow at what she heard, glancing at the woman clad in dark red cloak before looking back at Hakken. Maybe it’s the reason why the woman is fully covered—because she was embarrassed with her sexual appetite, she thought.

“You have something in mind? Perhaps I could help?”

“If you can arrange a halfling and a demi-human for us to play with,” Hakken said, smiling maliciously, and then handed Ishya a pouch filled with gold coins, “it’ll be so much appreciated.”

“I will arrange it personally.” Ishya accepted the small pouch full of gold coins with a pleased smiled. “Would you like to have a meal before playing? It’s on the house.”

“Thank you, but we’re okay with alcohol and some snacks to go with it,” Hakken answered.

Ishya nodded and stepped out of the room. The moment the door to the room closed, Sollel sighed heavily and faced Hakken. “We should act like a couple when that woman returns to avoid suspicion.”

Hakken showed his slightly burnt hand. “After you gave me this?”

Sollel looked away. “You didn’t let go of my hand when I asked you to. Serves you right for holding my hand like that without my consent.”

Hakken tilted his head to the side, trying to peek at the face inside the hood, but when he didn’t see anything, he offered his other hand that was not burnt at Sollel. “Then may I hold your hand, my lady?”

Sollel answered Hakken by placing her hand on his palm, “Just don’t interlock our fingers. It’s uncomfortable.”

Hakken couldn’t help the smile that graced his lips as he held Sollel’s hand. “Is this okay, my lady?”

“Yes.”

“May I continue holding your hand, my lady?”

“Why?”

“To be more believable, of course.” Hakken had an innocent smile, but Sollel was not buying it. “We’re married after all—and very intimate, I might add, my lady.”

Sollel just sighed at Hakken’s coquettishness.

“What’s with the sigh?” Hakken was having a good night that he couldn’t help teasing his lady. “Am I not to your liking, my lady?”

Sollel knew Hakken was just playing around, and she couldn’t help playing along. Two could play his game. “I admit you are a very attractive man—easy on the eyes, witty, smart, and strong.” Hakken beamed until Sollel added, “But still not enough to charm and captivate me.”

Hakken’s smile disappeared for only a second before a playful one stretched his lips. “Then I must work hard to charm and captivate my lady.”

Sollel just stared at Hakken’s determined face, and even how much she tried to read and understand him, she just couldn’t. Hakken was like a ball of mystery to her. She wanted to unravel him, but she had a feeling it wouldn’t do her any good, so she just let him be most of the time. But at that moment, as Hakken took a step closer to her—close enough that Hakken could see the outline of Sollel’s lips under the hood—Sollel had the strong urge to know this man, to unravel the mystery around him.

“What are you doing, Hakken?” Sollel asked firmly when Hakken’s body was nearly touching hers.

“I want to kiss you, my lady,” Hakken answered honestly.

“Are you that desperate to die by my hands, Hakken?” Sollel inquired. “I’ll burn you.”

Hakken just smiled before he leaned in. Sollel was ready to release her flame if Hakken dared, but instead of a kiss on the lips, Hakken kissed the back of her hand.

Sollel didn’t know how to react that she felt gratitude to Ishya when she knocked and entered the room together with two individuals wearing cloaks and holding a tray with alcohol and snacks.

Ishya smiled at Hakken and Sollel before motioning her hands at her two companions and signaled them to take off their cloak—one halfling and one demi-human, both wearing slave collars made of pure iron. “They will serve you thoroughly. You can play with them however you like. If the play became rough and they died, you will pay an extra fee worth one hundred and fifty gold coins per head. But if the damage you inflicted on our goods is reparable, then the fee will be lessened to half.”

“Do you mean I can kill them as long as I have the money?” Sollel couldn’t help asking after hearing Ishya’s explanation.

While the two slaves winced in fear when they heard Sollel’s question, it was nothing new; in this establishment, their life was not their own.

“Yes,” Ishya answered Sollel. “As long as you pay the fee, everything is good.” Then Ishya looked at Hakken. “Is everything to your liking, my lord?”

Hakken nodded. “Yes. Leave and don’t disturb us.”

Ishya bowed her head and left the room.

Seeing the fear on the halfling’s and the demi-human’s eyes, Hakken stepped back and let El handle them. “I’ll sleep a bit, my lady,” Hakken informed Sollel as he walked to the bed. “Call me if you need me.”

Sollel smiled with gratitude after guessing Hakken’s reason for sleeping. He’s really not so bad. Flirtatious and impudent, but a man of honor.

Sollel looked at the halfling and the demi-human who were trying to be brave to not anger their client. The two knew that the more they struggled and cried for help, the more the client would hurt them, though it was their first time having a female client and a male client who didn’t immediately pounce on them.

“What’s your name?” Sollel asked the two as she sat on the table.

“Anya,” said the halfling.

“Figa,” said the demi-human from the tiger tribe.

“Please sit, Anya, Figa,” Sollel said as she pushed the plate full of snacks toward the two who meekly sat on the table. “Please eat.”

Anya played with her nails as she nervously asked, “Are you not going to…do anything?”

Figa pressed her lips and couldn’t hold back her anger anymore. “Whatever you’re planning with us, just get on with it. No need to play nice. We know how rotten you humans are!”

Sollel’s expression tightened. “Yes. They are rotten.”

Anya and Figa was surprised to hear an agreement from their client, but they were more surprised when their female client slightly pulled back her hood to show her face.

Bloodred eyes and hair. Unlike the last time when Sollel just escaped her prison, the color of her eyes and hair had changed from dark red—that it looked black sometimes—to blood red. And it would continue to change as she recovered her strength. Someday, she would get her bright crimson-red hair and eyes.

Figa stuttered. “Y-you’re—”

Anya’s eyes widened. An Ytherian? “You …”

Sollel put her forefinger over her lips to signal Figa and Anya not to identify her out loud. “I’m actually here to get information about the Duves family.”

Figa’s face became ugly with rage at the mention of the Duves family. “Those inhuman scums! They hunted all the women in our tribe and used us to subdue our men! They’re cowardly and pathetic. That’s what they all are!”

Sollel understood Figa’s anger, so she didn’t tell her to calm down. “I need information about them. Can you help me?”

Anya held her hands together. “We know a little, but if we divulge any information that could be used against them, our collar will tighten, and it’ll suffocate and kill us.”

Sollel couldn’t hide her horrified expression. “What…”

Figa gritted her teeth. “It’s part of the slave contract.” A tear escape Figa’s eyes in anger and frustration. “We can’t help you.”

Sollel put her hood back on. “Hakken.”

On the bed, Hakken—who was lying there and listening—got up when he heard his lady and went to the table. “Yes, my lady?”

Anya and Figa both froze in fear at the sight of Hakken, but Sollel calmed them down. “It’s okay. He’s with me.”

“B-but he’s human…” Anya said, her voice trembling.

“Doesn’t matter what I am,” said Hakken as he stood beside Sollel’s chair. “You need anything, my lady?”

“Do you have something to write on?” Sollel asked, and Hakken was quick to provide his lady what she needed from his leather pouch.

Accepting the parchment paper and the steel pen from Hakken, Sollel stared at it for a split second. For Hakken to have these items on the go in his pouch … Sollel took a deep breath and focused her attention on Anya and Figa.

“Can you read?” Sollel asked.

Figa shook her head, but Anya nodded. “I can. A little. My mother taught me.”

Sollel immediately wrote her question on the paper and showed it to Anya. “Blink twice if it’s a yes.”

Sollel waited for Anya’s answer, but instead of a blink, she got a frown from Anya.

“What is that…language, my lady?” Anya asked in bewilderment.

Sollel blinked and looked at the words she wrote on the paper. She was sure that this was the common language humans used to converse and write.

Wait…did it change while I was imprisoned? Sollel squeezed her eyes shut. I messed up.

“This was the old language,” Hakken commented when he saw what El wrote. “Let me translate it.” Hakken took the paper and pen from Sollel and translated Sollel’s words into the language now.

First question: Does the Duves family have a thousand armies? Blink twice if yes.

Anya didn’t blink, so Hakken changed it to “hundred army,” earning two blinks from Anya.

Second question: Do they have sorcerers? How many?

Anya blinked twice and raised her hand to show her two fingers.

Last question: Who holds the slave contract? The head of the Duves family?

Anya shook her head, so Hakken wrote an additional question on the paper: Who?

“I don’t know,” Anya said and sighed. “Nobody knows. It’s a secret.”

Hakken folded the paper and put it back on his leather pouch together with the steel pen. “Do you have any more questions for them, my lady?”

Sollel was too distracted to answer Hakken. Her mind was questioning herself why her writing couldn’t be understood. Hakken called it an old language, and it seemed that nobody knew or understood it anymore, but she had been speaking with everyone using the old language since her escape, and she could communicate just fine.

Even now, to her, Figa, Anya, and Hakken were all talking in the old language, but they’re saying that the language she’d been speaking and hearing from others had become obsolete. How did it happen?

What’s happening? she asked herself. If that is true … then how on Azitera can I understand them? 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 12

AFTER SPENDING the whole night in the red-light district, just talking to Anya and Figa, Sollel and Hakken went back to the inn just before sunrise and a displeased-looking Cira welcomed them back. “Where have you been, Your Highness? What were you doing with that perverted hunter? He’s dangerous!” Cira interrogated Sollel like a mother worried about her daughter the moment they entered their room.

Sollel took off her cloak and faced Cira. “We investigated the Duves family,” Sollel explained to stop Cira from worrying as Sollel sat on the edge of the bed. “Don’t worry, Hakken didn’t do anything inappropriate to me.”

Cira scowled. “He’s still dangerous. Don’t lower your guard around him.”

Sollel nodded. “I won’t.”

Sollel’s answer made the worry in Cira’s eyes disappeared. “You should rest now, Your Highness. Don’t worry. I will guard you with my life! That Hakken can never enter our room to seduce you.”

Sollel smiled awkwardly. “I don’t think he’s that kind of a man, Cira.”

Cira’s eyes widened, and her jaw went slack. “Oh, my deities! You like him already, Your Highness?!”

Sollel quickly waved her hand to deny Cira’s assumption. “No, it’s not like that. It’s just that we’ve been traveling with him for a couple of weeks now and he had done nothing but help us. I just don’t think it’s fair for Hakken, but of course, we still shouldn’t lower our guard.”

Cira looked at Sollel. “You say that, but you trusted him already, right, Your Highness? I can tell just by looking at you two.”

Sollel looked down at her clasped hand. “I won’t deny that Hakken is a dependable companion, but do I trust him completely? No. I don’t. He had to move heaven and earth to earn my trust.”

Cira bit her lower lip, her face filled with sadness. “Do I have to move heaven and earth to earn your trust, Your Highness?”

Sollel smiled at Cira, and then she got up to tap Cira’s head to reassure her. “I left the moonrite in your care, didn’t I?”

Cira’s eyes widened, a happy smile appeared on her lips, and her eyes had become teary. “I’m so happy! Yey! Thank you, Your Highness!”

Sollel chuckled softly before she went back to sit on the edge of her bed. “By the way, Cira, remember when I still couldn’t talk and I wrote on the ground to converse with you?”

Cira nodded. “What about it, Your Highness?”

“The words I wrote back then…you understood them clearly. But when I tried to converse with someone last night using paper and pen, she couldn’t understand—no, more like she couldn’t read the words I wrote. The whole night, I kept wondering why. Do you have any idea why you could understand it and she couldn’t?”

Cira sat on her own bed and looked at Sollel, studying her while thinking deeply. After a little while, she nodded, as she finally had an answer. “This person must be young.”

Sollel blinked at Cira. “Enlighten me, Cira.”

Cira explained clearly. “Your Highness, the human language you used to write on the ground is what they call an old language. After Yther’s destruction, a lot has changed, especially the language. The Ytherians helped the humans before with their language, and after the siege, humans didn’t want anything that has something to do with Ytherians, so they completely changed the language. The only race who understands the old language now are the long-lived ones, like the elves.”

But Hakken can read and understand it. “I see…”

Cira smiled. “It’s a good thing that you can also speak and understand the new language.”

Sollel didn’t show Cira how surprised she was. I could speak and understand the new language? That’s impossible. All this time, I’ve been using the old language to converse with everybody. Did that mean that even if she spoke the old language, people around her heard the new language instead and vice versa?

Sollel closed her eyes and massaged her temple. Her head hurt because she had no idea where this ability was coming from.

But come to think of it, when she was in her moonrite person, there was a time when she couldn’t understand the words the people around her were saying. She thought it was because she had become weak, but maybe it was the new language.

Her memory was hazy in prison, but she was certain that she only started understanding the words people were saying around her again maybe a few years before she escaped. She couldn’t really tell since time was not really something she could measure inside her prison, but she was certain that it just happened recently.

Does my freer have something to do with this? If she was right, then her escape was well planned and premeditated. Her freer did not just bring her out of prison; her freer also made sure that she could communicate well, which was very important.

Sollel took a deep breath and looked at Cira. “How was the bread I gave you?” She gave half of Hakken’s bread to Cira for analysis. Elves were a smart race; analyzing food and inanimate objects was a child’s play for them, and Sollel was hoping that Cira could provide her some information about Hakken.

Cira shook her head. “It’s just a normal bread, Your Highness.”

Sollel didn’t know why she felt disappointed. “I should rest. Wake me up before lunch, Cira.”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

♕♕♕

CIRA AGREED TO wake Sollel up, but Sollel woke up on her own, a few hours before lunch. Not wasting any time, Sollel went to the bathroom to clean herself and her garments, and then she put on a different dress and cloak while waiting for her former clothes and cloak to dry.

Stepping out of the room, Sollel looked for Cira, but she found Hakken in the wagon instead, cleaning his sword and sharpening it.

Sensing Sollel, Hakken immediately looked up from his sword to greet his lady. “Good morning, my la—” Hakken’s eyes fell on Sollel’s new cloak. “What happened to your old cloak?”

“I washed it, and I’m waiting for it to dry,” Sollel answered before climbing into the wagon’s front. “Where’s Cira? I haven’t seen her.”

“She accompanied Len to get her sister,” Hakken continued polishing his sword. “I wanted to accompany them, but Cira firmly told me to stay here and guard you while you’re sleeping.”

Sollel was not comfortable letting Cira roam around alone, but remembering her bow-and-arrow skill, she was sure that Cira could take care of herself. Cira had been looking after herself on Beastrela before they met, so she’d be fine.

Sollel jumped off from the wagon. “Let’s eat, Hakken. I’m hungry.”

Hakken immediately sheathed his sword, strapped it on his back, and followed Sollel to the inn’s tavern.

After choosing their table and ordering, Hakken spoke in a low voice that only they could hear. “I have valuable information about the Duves family. I’ll tell you after we eat.”

Sollel didn’t voice out her surprise, but she was. After spending their night in the red-light district, they only accumulated so little information, and some of them were not even useful. But all of a sudden, just a few hours after they left the red-light district, Hakken was saying he had a valuable information?

Sollel glanced at Hakken. He can’t be just a normal hunter…right?

Sollel had always been suspicious of Hakken, but she always discarded her suspicion since it was she who hired him. She was the one who approached him, not the other way around. He may be suspicious, but he won’t hurt me…right? she thought.

She could deny it in front of Cira, but Sollel couldn’t deny it to herself—she was starting to be comfortable with Hakken. He was dependable, smart, charming—a man with honor. She felt no boredom when she’s with him. Even his coquettishness was amusing.

Sollel sighed and quietly waited for the food to arrive. When it did, Sollel ate in silence. Only after their meal did Sollel speak with Hakken and invite him to her room to talk.

“What valuable information do you have?” Sollel asked as she entered her room.

Hakken closed the door behind him, but he didn’t step further into the room. He remained close to the door to give his lady an ample space to be comfortable since it was just the two of them inside.

“Based on the information I gathered, the slaves under the Duves family are divided into three. The slave workers, the slave prostitutes, and the slave warriors. The one who holds the contract for slave workers is Lord Tyon Duves.”

I heard that name before. Sollel frowned when she remembered. “The one I beat up?”

Hakken couldn’t help smiling. “Yes, my lady.”

Sollel clicked her tongue. “I should’ve killed him.” She glanced at Hakken. “Who holds Anya and Figa’s contract?”

“Ishya.”

Sollel lips parted. “The red-light district manager?”

Hakken nodded. “Ishya is not a problem, but the sorcerer protecting her is.” Hakken heaved a deep sigh. “As long as the sorcerer is alive, we can’t harm Ishya.”

Sollel scoffed. What’s so scary about sorcerers? They had powers not because they’ve been blessed by the deities, but because their lineage had been blessed by Yther’s queens. Back when they were still caring for humans, they had blessed several families with power so they could defend themselves from beasts and other threats. These families married into another family and to another and so on, giving birth to Azitera’s sorcerers and sorceresses. Some were powerful and gifted, some were not.

But to Sollel, even a powerful sorcerer was nothing but a copy of Ytherian strength. I blessed them with my flame. Who can stop me from taking it back?

“Don’t worry about the sorcerer, I told you, didn’t I? I’ll protect you.”

Hakken smiled. “You seldom fight while we’re travelling that I sometimes forget that you’re a flame sorcerer.”

Sollel didn’t correct Hakken and just let him think that she was a flame sorcerer. It’s better that he didn’t know. They’d part ways in the capital of Treterra anyway. Knowing her true identity would only put him in danger. Hunter or not, Sollel didn’t want to drag Hakken to her mess like how she dragged and endangered Cira before.

“And the one that holds the contract of the slave warriors is the head of the family, Lord Artus Duves,” Hakken continued. “Not only could he command the demi-humans and halflings to fight for him, but he also had an army of mercenaries and he’s being protected by a sorcerer.”

“Don’t mind the mercenaries and the sorcerer. Let’s focus on the halflings and demi-humans,” Sollel said as if the mercenaries and the sorcerers were nothing but little insects.

“My lady, the Duves family has more than a hundred mercenaries working for them,” Hakken reminded Sollel again in case she didn’t hear him. We can’t barge in and force our way in like we did in that small village.“

“And I told you don’t mind the mercenaries and the sorcerer.” Sollel firmly held her ground. “They don’t matter.”

Hakken just sighed because he honestly couldn’t follow what his lady was thinking. “What’s your plan then?”

“I will enter the Duves’ estate.”

Hakken frowned. “And how is my lady going to do that?”

Sollel smiled. “They will invite me of course.”

Now Hakken was lost. “Invite you?”

Sollel nodded and shared her plan with Hakken, and as Sollel laid her plan, Hakken could only sigh secretly. My lady has a soft heart for the halflings and demi-humans, but when it comes to the humans, her soft heart is always nowhere to be seen.

“Don’t forget to look for Cira,” Sollel reminded Hakken after he opened the door to leave. “She can help you.”

Hakken nodded, and when he was about to step out of the room, he heard Sollel say, “Be careful, Hakken. I don’t want to lose my hunter.”

Short and simple words but they made Hakken’s heart throb that he squeezed his eyes shut. It had always been like this since the first time he saw her. His heart couldn’t relax around El. “Don’t worry, my lady. I will not die without your permission.”

That sounded reassuring, Sollel thought as she looked at Hakken’s back.

Sollel took a deep breath and closed the door to get ready as well. She made sure that she looked presentable before she set out to carry out her plan.

Minutes later, Sollel was standing outside the Duves family estate and conversing with the guard. “Please tell Lord Tyon that it is I, the woman who unintentionally harmed him yesterday.” Sollel’s voice was filled with regret and sadness. “I didn’t mean to do it. I was just surprised that I smacked him with a sword, and I’m filled with guilt. That’s why I want to make amends and do everything I can to make it up to him.”

The two guards looked at each other and secretly grinned because they knew what Lord Tyon would do to this lady. And after Lord Tyon was done with her, she’d be handed to the guards for pleasure and entertainment.

“I will deliver your message right away,” said the guard while hiding his impure smile and thoughts.

Looking at the guard’s back, a small smile appeared on Sollel’s lips. She felt triumphant when the guard came back and invited her in with a wide smile. But Sollel’s triumphant feeling disappeared when she entered the Duves’ estate and she saw who was lying on the floor with a slave collar around the neck.

Cira! 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 13

SOLLEL CONTROLLED the rage inside her upon seeing Cira unconscious on the floor with a slave collar around her neck and calmly sat in the living room. In front of her was Lord Tyon Duves, who had a sadistic and disgusting smile while eyeing her like she was a premium piece of meat that he wanted to devour; he was almost salivating.

Seeing the defiant woman acting docile in front of him, Lord Tyon snickered in delight. “Now you know your place, woman. A commoner like you should be happy that I want your touch! You should even kneel before me!”

Lord Tyon was sneering, but Sollel’s attention was not on Lord Tyon but at the halfling standing behind him.

Len.

Sollel didn’t need any explanation, seeing Len standing behind Lord Tyon like he was seeking protection. Her mind immediately and unforgivingly branded Len a traitor.

Lord Tyon stood and walked toward Sollel with a dirty wicked smile. “If you want to be forgiven, you should undress and kneel before me, or else, you will meet the same end as your elf friend here.” Lord Tyon kicked Cira in the stomach while laughing maniacally. “Kneel and worship me and I might forgive you!”

“Lord Tyon told you to kneel!” Len sneered at Sollel. “Kneel before him now and beg for mercy!”

Sollel remained passive and uncaring, and it unnerved Len. It also infuriated Lord Tyon that he tried to grab Sollel to rip her clothes off. But Lord Tyon plan backfired when a scalding-hot, sharp pain pierced his hand as he touched Sollel.

Lord Tyon backed away, screaming in pain and clutching his burned hand. The smell of burning flesh filled the air. Lord Tyon’s sharp, unforgiving eyes glared at Sollel, all the more wanting to rip her to shreds and violate her until he was satisfied. But how could he do that when he couldn’t even touch her?

“You will pay for this, you filthy commoner!” Lord Tyon screamed in rage. He felt humiliated! He’s Lord Tyon, one of the most powerful men in this town! How dare this lowborn woman defy me! he thought.

“Hurting me is the same as hurting the whole Duves Family. Are you courting death?! I will grant it to you, you filthy whore!”

Lord Tyon confidently drew his sword; a smug smirk made its way to his lips when fire covered it. His sword was enchanted with flames by the flame sorcerer of his family. A rare weapon that could only be wielded by the heir of the Duves family. It’s the weapon that he’s most proud of.

But the pride in Lord Tyon’s eyes slowly dissipated when the flame of his sword—the flame of his flaming sword that he was so proud—started dimming. It left his weapon and went to the cloaked woman, like it was being sucked by her. And then the flame disappeared. Just like that. The heirloom of his family…gone!

Sollel could only chuckle when the flame of Lord Tyon’s sword fled to her. She didn’t suck it, like Lord Tyon was thinking. The flame merely wanted to go back to its original owner.

“You will pay!” Lord Tyon was in rage as he willed the slave collar on Cira to tighten and kill her. He saw the two enter the tavern, and Lord Tyon knew that killing the elf was the only way to get back at the woman.

Seeing the elf choking to death, Lord Tyon laughed maniacally while his whole face was filled with desire to violate her. The more the women suffered because of him, the more he got more excited. “Yes! That’s it!” His face was fully aroused while watching the elf. “Die! Die for me! Oh, so beautiful!”

Lord Tyon was so occupied that he didn’t feel the condensed, hot air that materialized into a thick, transparent heat shield that Sollel tossed at him until it slammed on him and threw him against the solid wall, his back breaking at the fierce impact.

“My lord!” Len immediately ran toward Lord Tyon to offer help while Sollel stood and went to crouch beside Cira who finally stopped choking and coughing.

“How are you feeling?” Sollel asked while helping Cira get up. “Forgive me for not hastily saving you. I had to make sure that it was him who holds your slave contract first.”

“It’s okay,” Cira said in between small coughs. “I’m just glad you’re here, Your Highness.”

Seeing Cira coughing and still having a hard time breathing, Sollel stood and looked at Lord Tyon who’s now back on his feet with Len’s assistance.

Lord Tyon’s eyes were bloodshot red with anger, glaring furiously at the woman who dared hurt him. “How dare you hurt a noble like me, you filthy commoner—”

“Before me, you are the commoner.” Sollel spoke each word condescendingly, like a queen talking to a waste.

Not concealing her fury any longer, Sollel unleashed her flames in both her hands. Her flames crawled up to her elbows, covering her arms, working hard to get its mistress’s attention. The flame was scorching-red hot—even the air around Sollel was sweltering—but it left the garment of its mistress intact, not a single burn.

A flame sorceress?! It explained why my flaming sword is ruined. Seeing the scorching flame, Lord Tyon’s brain raced for a plan—a plan to run. His cloak had a protective enchantment; a single fire attack could never hurt him. That thought delighted Lord Tyon. The moment I escape, I will hunt her down, rip her to shreds, and have my way with her until I’m sated.

But just when he was about to flee, that’s when Lord Tyon realized that the sorceress in front of him had no magic tool. Sorcerers needed magic tools where they could channel their power to materialize it. Some used wands, swords, staffs, or rings.

But the woman in front of him had nothing but her hands and flames. No magic tools. Just pure flame ready to burn and devour.

And her flame was now devouring his cloak like it was a normal piece of clothing!

The protective enchantment is not working! What kind of flame is this?! Lord Tyon was now horrified, his fear for his life making him tremble, and his legs had lost their strength to stand.

“Y-you…wh-who are you?” Fear filled Lord Tyon. His delight had now become dread. He couldn’t think straight, knowing that the protective enchantment in his cloak could not withstand the fire. I can’t die here! I can’t! “S-spare me…I will give you millions of gold! Every piece I own! Just spare my life! Spare me!” Lord Tyon continued bargaining for his life, even when the flames were already devouring his clothes and starting to melt his skin. “Spare me! Spare me!”

But Sollel had no mercy. And seeing that, Len tried to flee, but before he could run far, a small flame dropped from Sollel’s hand to the floor, setting its path on fire as it traveled toward Len, encircling around him before igniting into a two-meter high flame, trapping Len inside.

“Have mercy, please!” Len from inside the circle of flame shouted, begging. “I only did it for my sister! Lord Tyon said if I gave him Cira, he would free my sister! Please spare my life! Please! I’m a halfling! You protect halflings, right?! Please! I just did what I did to survive!”

Sollel answered Len without casting a glance at him. “Halfling or not, I won’t tolerate or show mercy to traitors.” Sollel clenched her fists, signaling her flame to move, and together, Lord Tyon and Len was burned and devoured ferociously by fire. Their bodies burned beyond recognition, except for their faces. Sollel left them intact.

“Your Highness…” These were the only words Cira could utter as she watched Queen Sollel’s flame encircling its mistress like it was happy to see her and do her bidding.

And Cira was in awe.

The first time she saw Queen Sollel use her flame was when she saved her from the Infernal Empire army, and her flame at that time was very fierce. For Cira, it was already a very powerful flame, but to Queen Sollel, it was weak since she was still recovering. It was only one-eighth of her strength, she said. And it made Cira wonder how powerful Queen Sollel could be once she recovered all her strength.

Because even now, Cira was sure that Queen Sollel had only recovered a fraction of her strength but she was already this powerful. What more after she recovered fully? She would surely be a force to be reckoned with. She could literally raze hell, and if Cira found a stone that could fight the moonrite’s effect, no one in Azitera could stop her flames.

Cira sucked her breath when Queen Sollel faced her, and with her elven eyes that could see clearly in the darkness, she saw a swirling flame in Queen Sollel’s eyes, like a flowing lava. “Your eyes…”

“Don’t mind it,” Sollel blinked, and the flame in her eyes was gone. “Can you move?”

Cira stood and took the slave collar off her neck with a breath of relief. Its power to trap and enslave Cira already disappeared the moment Lord Tyon died. Then Cira collected her bow and arrow that Lord Tyon tossed on the floor earlier after Len put a slave collar on her.

“Can you fight?” Sollel asked Cira after Cira strapped the bow and arrow on her back.

Cira nodded firmly, gone the goofy Cira. “What do you need me to do, Your Highness?”

“Go to Hakken,” Sollel ordered. “If my calculation was right, he must be in the middle of the fight now with the sorcerer guarding Ishya. Help him execute our plan.”

“What plan?” Cira asked as she readied her bow.

After Sollel explained, Cira’s eyes widened. “Wait—Your Highness! That plan will get us all killed!”

Sollel smiled at her. “Don’t you trust me?”

Cira stilled before she answered, “I do.”

“Then go to Hakken and help him. Don’t worry. We’ll leave Belrac unscathed.”

With Sollel’s reassurance, Cira left the Duves’s estate secretly, using her agility to her advantage. Sollel, on the other hand, left and went to their front yard as if she didn’t just kill their heir.

Sollel sat on the edge of the man-made fountain, just outside the Duves’s mansion, simply hanging out and enjoying the view. A few minutes later, Sollel’s serene surroundings became chaotic. The head of the Duves family finally arrived with his sorcerer, and together, they discovered Tyon Duves’s charred body in the living room of the mansion.

“Who did this to my son?!” Lord Tane Duves, the head of the Duves house, screamed in rage. His body trembled in grief and fury seeing his beloved son in such an estate. Anger was not enough to describe what he was feeling. “Find the bastard who did this to my son!”

“M-my lord,” one the guards knelt on one knee and informed them, “the person who did this is outside…she’s waiting by the fountain.”

“Waiting?” the flame sorcerer echoed in surprise and clicked his tongue. “How daring of her to wait for us.”

Lord Tane Duves pushed the guards away, hurriedly walking toward the fountain, while the flame sorcerer was behind him. There’s only revenge in Lord Tane Duves’s mind. He wanted nothing else at that moment but the corpse of the person who killed his beloved son.

While running toward the fountain in the front yard, Lord Tane Duves mobilized his armies and his demi-human warriors, ordering them to encircle the fountain so the woman couldn’t escape.

But unbeknownst to Lord Tane Duves, Sollel had no plans to escape, and she was just waiting for them.

And Sollel was not disappointed. Hearing hundreds of footsteps, Sollel only moved her body to sit comfortably and just calmly watched Lord Tane Duves’s armies of humans and demi-humans encircling the fountain by five rows, and in front of Sollel was the lord himself and his trusted flame sorcerer.

♕♕♕

“HURRY! RUN faster!” Cira shouted at Hakken as they maneuvered the forest behind the Duves’s estate. Looking over her shoulder, Cira jumped to the nearest tree and did a somersault in the air to escape the water canon aimed at her. “Curse that water sorcerer!” Cira hissed as her feet landed on a tree branch. “Hurry, Hakken!”

Hakken cursed. He was doing his best to dodge the sharp water spears chasing after him while running. “Easy for you to say! You’re basically running on trees with covers!”

Hakken cussed again when two of the water spears hit the tree beside him, smashing it into smithereens. The tree trunk’s sharp fragments hit the side of his body, some pierced his skin, and a large splinter grazed his face, leaving a long cut.

“Dammit!” Hakken ran as fast as his legs could. “I hate sorcerers!”

“Hurry up—”

“Stop ordering me around!” Hakken hissed. “You’re not my lady!”

Cira clicked her tongue in annoyance and continued sliding on tree trunks and jumping from tree to tree. She was way ahead of Hakken, and the sorcerer couldn’t keep up with Cira’s agility.

But Hakken’s situation was different; his speed was on par with the sorcerer, and he was the one taking all the sorcerer’s attacks. Unlike Cira, he couldn’t jump from tree to tree and could only run on land while using his war blades to dodge and block the sorcerer’s powerful water attacks.

“Are they out of their minds?” Ishya, who was running beside the water sorcerer, frowned when she realized that they were almost at the Duves’s estate. “Don’t they know they’re running toward the Duves’s mansion?”

The water sorcerer couldn’t care less about Ishya’s question. He was focused on channeling his power to his staff to conjure endless water spears and water cannons.

“Oh, my deities…” Cira mumbled under her breath when she reached the end of the forest and saw the scene in the Duves’s estate front yard.

Queen Sollel was standing at the center, and she was surrounded by human armies and demi-human warriors by five rows. In front of her was the head of the family and the flame sorcerer who was already casting a fire attack, aimed at Queen Sollel! “No! Your Highness!”

Cira was overcome with worry, but when Hakken saw the scene in the Duves’s estate front yard, by the fountain, he tightened his hold on his war blades and picked up his pace.

The size of Hakken’s war blades could be compared to a claymore, even their weight and length, so when he bulldozed his way toward his lady, his war blades slashed, thrusted, and slaughtered everyone—including the rows of human armies—blocking his way. And behind Hakken was Cira who assisting him by shooting arrows at everyone who tried to lunge a sneak attack at Hakken as he forced his way in.

Entering the circle, Hakken and Cira immediately covered and protected Sollel’s back.

“I’m here, my lady.”

“I’m back, Your Highness.”

The three were in a triangular formation, back against back, protecting one another as they faced the enemies—Hakken with his war blades, Cira with her bow and arrow, and Sollel with her flame.

A second of deafening silence filled the Duves family’s front yard…before all hell broke loose. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 14

SURROUNDED BY hundreds of human armies and demi-human warriors, a flame sorcerer at the front and a water sorcerer at the back, Sollel, Cira, and Hakken were fully trapped in the center. In the enemy’s perspective, with their numbers and strength, they could already foresee their victory. Who could rival a flame and a water sorcerer? One sorcerer could take on hundreds of soldiers in a war. That’s how different their strengths were from normal soldiers.

But to the three at the center, at least to Sollel, numbers meant nothing, and the sorcerers were nothing but a decoration.

“Cira,” Sollel ordered, flames erupting from her hands as she clenched her fists, “control the movements of the demi-humans, even just for a few seconds. They are moving against their will. Hakken, I will leave the soldiers to you. I will take care of the sorcerers.”

Cira nodded and readied five arrows from her quiver that was strapped on her back, while Hakken gripped his war blades tightly with a small smile on his face.

“Go.” One simple word from Sollel and Hakken immediately sprinted toward the human armies while Cira effortlessly climbed to the highest peak of the fountain statue where she released her arrows.

Hakken was a force to be reckoned with as he wielded his war blades. No soldier could touch him. He could easily block and repel any attacks with his blades. He was lethal on the battlefield. His movements and his war blades were too sharp and destructive that the enemy soldiers were having a hard time pinning Hakken down. They couldn’t even land a fatal blow against him. Forget about pinning him down—it was a brutal task.

On the other hand, Cira was the complete opposite of Hakken’s brutal strength. She was calmly standing at the highest peak of the fountain statue, looking at the demi-humans waiting for their master’s will. With five arrows in between her fingers, she aimed and covered her arrows with her essence.

“Attack!” Lord Tane Duves, the head of the Duves family, shouted in rage from the top of his lungs, ordering his enslaved demi-humans. “Kill them all! Kill them for my son! Avenge my son!”

A demi-human warrior was much stronger than a soldier, but Cira was ready. The moment the order was given, she simultaneously released the five arrows in between her fingers and then another volley of arrows and another. Each arrow landed fiercely on the ground, a meter from each other, digging into the cement surface, forming a blockade.

The demi-humans who were sprinting toward the center discarded the harmless arrows on the ground and were all ready to attack when they slammed against an invisible wall, forcing them back and stopping their pursuit.

Cira didn’t waste her time. In a split second, she jumped high into the air, and with precision that only an elven warrior would possess, she used her remaining arrows filled with her essence to form a barricade around the demi-humans to block them.

The demi-humans continued to struggle inside the barricade Cira made. The arrows looked harmless, but every time the demi-humans tried to pass them, they would slam into an invisible wall. Unbeknownst to the demi-humans and to Lord Tane, the invisible wall was made from Cira’s essence, and the arrows were just a medium to materialize it.

But it won’t last long. “Your Highness!” Cira bellowed when she landed on the ground after jumping high into the air.

Hearing Cira calling for her, Sollel tossed a small ball of flame at the water sorcerer she was fighting, and when her flame landed against the water shield the water sorcerer conjured to protect himself, the small flame exploded, blasting the water sorcerer away.

Maybe if it was Aenwyn’s aqua shield, her flames would have a hard time penetrating it. But it was just a shield of a water sorcerer, a far cry from Aenwyn’s aqua shield.

“Your Highness!” Cira bellowed again. The blockade she made was starting to wane; her essence had been exhausted.

Without casting a glance at the demi-humans, Sollel dropped two flames on the ground, which skated and left a path as they traveled toward the demi-humans. The two small flames joined together in front of the barricade and then split again, moving in the opposite direction, forming a circle of flame around the demi-humans, following the formation Cira made with her arrows. When the flames joined together once again, the three-inch circle of flame soared up to a few feet high, trapping the demi-humans inside.

At the same time Sollel’s flame soared, the effect of Cira’s essence in her arrows disappeared.

The demi-humans inside the flame started panicking, only to realize that the flame was not scorching hot; rather, it was just warm. But if they tried to cross the circle of flame, they’d be burned to death for sure.

“Cira!” Sollel only had to call Cira once, and Cira immediately understood and pulled herself together. Getting arrows from her satchel, she put all of them in her quiver. From a safe distance, Cira aimed her bow and arrow at the head of the Duves family, waiting for the perfect moment to shoot.

If they wanted to save the demi-humans, they had to take down the head first. That was Sollel’s plan—gather all the powerful members of the Duves family in one place, trap the demi-humans, kill the head of the Duves family, and deal with the rest. Such a simple and easy plan.

Sollel clicked her tongue when she saw water spears coming her way again, but they were weaker than the previous ones. The water sorcerer must be exhausted.

Sollel easily repelled the water spears with a thin firewall. With her current strength, she could only conjure a solid firewall measuring five feet high and one meter wide. It was weak and miniscule compared to the firewall she could create with her full power, which was fifty feet high and a hundred meters wide.

But her current thin firewall was enough to shield her from the water sorcerer’s attack. Good thing the water sorcerer was alone; if the Duves family had two or maybe three water sorcerers focused on attacking her, Sollel would’ve taken the fight seriously. She was still weak after all.

Sollel dropped two small flames on the ground again, and just as her thin firewall disappeared, she willed the two flames on the ground to crawl and surround the water sorcerer.

The water sorcerer cursed when the scorching flame surrounded him. What kind of flame is this?! I can’t put it out easily! He pointed his staff at the flame around him, and in an instant, water poured out from it. The water sorcerer had high hopes that the water he conjured could extinguish the fire, only to be disappointed when the water couldn’t even put out a part of the circle of flame.

The water sorcerer gritted his teeth and covered his whole body with a thin water shield to protect himself from the flame while he tried to put out the circle of flame again.

With the water sorcerer taken care of in the meantime, Sollel glanced at Hakken who was receiving fire attacks from the flame sorcerer and being attacked repeatedly by the soldiers. Sollel should feel bad since she promised Hakken she’d protect him from the sorcerer, but he was defending himself just fine. He was indeed a warrior to be reckoned with.

Smiling, Sollel stretched and raised her hand to the chest level and made an enormous ball of flame. It was massive, and it was the only attack she could do at the moment, honestly. With her current strength, she could only do a blood flame; a ball of flame; a weak, short, and thin firewall; and a little flame manipulation. That’s how weak she was at present.

So to make a path toward Hakken who was in the middle of the battlefield, Sollel conjured the biggest ball of flame she could muster and released it toward Hakken’s direction.

The ball of flame bulldozed and incinerated soldiers that blocked its path in an instant, and Hakken’s eyes widened when he saw the ball of flame El released coming straight at him.

“What the!” Hakken used his war blades to block the massive ball of flame coming straight at him, but before it touched his sword, the ball of flame disappeared. Just like that.

The soldiers became silent after the massive ball of flame disappeared. Even the flame sorcerer readied himself for a destructive fight between him and the flame sorceress who easily defeated the water sorceress protecting Ishya.

Walking on the path that was scorched and cleared by her ball of flame, nobody moved in awe, and Sollel easily reached Hakken.

“Need help?” Sollel asked Hakken in a teasing tone.

Hakken straightened his body and flipped his war blades to hold it in reverse. “My lady, you could’ve burned me.”

“Not my intention,” Sollel replied.

“What are you standing there for?!” Lord Tane screamed at the soldiers. “Kill them!” Then he glared and ordered at the demi-humans who were trapped in the circle of flame. “I don’t care if you die! Cross that flame and kill them all!”

Hearing that, demi-humans didn’t have a choice but to cross the flame and perish. It was an order, and as long as they had a slave collar, their life was not their own. But Sollel would never let that happen. Hearing Lord Tane’s order, she sent a gigantic ball of flame at the flame sorcerer to distract him.

Seeing how the sorcerer blocked Queen Sollel’s flame with his own and how focused he was at defeating it, Cira—who was hiding from a safe distance—aimed and shot her arrow at Lord Tane.

It should have been a perfect shot, but Lord Tane was wearing an enchanted helmet, so Cira’s arrow didn’t penetrate Lord Tane’s head; it only angered him even more.

Seeing that she failed and the demi-humans we’re crossing the circle of flame, Cira gritted her teeth. No! We did this to save them! Cira pulled her sword from her satchel and ran toward Lord Tane. I will not let you hurt more halflings and demi-humans!

Cira lunged an attack against Lord Tane who blocked Cira’s sword, and the two clashed with their weapons. Cira was fast and agile that Lord Tane couldn’t keep up with her movements; his swords couldn’t even graze the elf. Cira was like dancing in the air, and her sword was slashing Lord Tane with a critical blow after blow.

As Cira and Lord Tane fought to death, the water sorcerer was still putting out Sollel’s flame but failing. He finally managed to block Sollel’s flame in exchange for his arm, while the demi-humans were being burned as they forcefully crossed the circle of flame by Lord Tane’s order.

Sollel immediately lessened the heat of the circle of flame to not hurt the demi-humans and then released two flames and ordered them to wrap themselves around Hakken’s blades.

Hakken stilled when he saw his war blades wrapped in flame, his lips parted in surprise.

“It’s not easy to wield a flaming sword at first,” Sollel said to Hakken before facing the flame sorcerer. “But you can do it. You’re my hunter after all.”

The surprise on Hakken’s face was replaced by a pleased smile. “By your will, my lady.”

“I’ll cover your back,” Sollel promised. “Go.”

With his lady watching his back, Hakken moved without hesitation, using the flames on his war blades to his advantage. Seeing Hakken fight, Sollel guessed that it was not Hakken’s first time to wield a flaming sword. He knew the right angle to attack to maximize the flame’s destructive strength, he knew where to position his blade for his own safety, and he knew how to take advantage of the flame when blocking and repelling the soldier’s attacks.

I was worrying for nothing. Sollel turned her head to face the flame sorcerer who already summoned fireballs to attack her and Hakken.

Looking at the fireballs shooting at her, Sollel frowned. “So weak,” she mumbled and clicked her tongue. “Is this what they did to my blessing? How disappointing.” Sollel didn’t even bother blocking the fireballs. Instead, she turned around and made a thin firewall to block the fireballs aimed at Hakken.

Hakken didn’t stop moving even when fireballs were raining down on him. He thrusted and slashed his flaming war blades and left the defending to his lady. Hakken could only smile when he saw his lady’s flame moving and changing shape to protect him. It made him feel excited; it felt exhilarating, maybe because of the familiar feeling it was giving him. And when his lady’s flame enveloped him to protect him from the raining fire made by the sorcerer, Hakken closed his eyes for a couple of seconds to feel its warmth.

Yes. I know this feeling, he thought.

The flame sorcerer wanted to pull his hair out in frustration when his flames couldn’t even burn the woman’s cloak. It’s like his flame lost its destructiveness when it neared her. He was losing his mind because all his attacks were useless, so he poured all his strength at the warrior fighting against the soldiers. But even that, his flame attacks were always blocked by the woman’s flame. The one dying from his rain of fire were the soldiers, not the warrior.

And as the flame sorcerer kept attacking Hakken with his fire, his strength started to wane. So when Sollel tossed a small ball of flame at him, the flame sorcerer couldn’t even defend himself, and he was blasted to the mansion’s wall. The impact of the explosion sent him spiraling into the air.

At the same time the flame sorcerer was blasted to the wall, Cira’s sword finally penetrated Lord Tane’s body. And immediately, Cira jumped back, drew her bow, and shot Lord Tane’s heart with five arrows simultaneously until he fell to the ground, lifeless.

Cira breathed in relief when Lord Tane finally died, but Ishya—who was hiding in the bushes—saw it all and screamed in grief.

“Father!”

But Ishya’s grief was nothing compared to the joyous howls of demi-humans when Lord Tane dropped dead at the same time the circle of flame around them disappeared. The demi-humans were all ready to kneel in front of Cira, but the elf pointed the woman wearing a cloak—the powerful woman who wielded flames without any magic tools.

“She’s your savior. I just helped,” Cira informed them with a smile, and immediately, all the demi-humans present kneeled on one knee to show their respect and gratitude toward Sollel, making Cira grin in happiness. “That’s more like it! Anyway,” Cira added when she remembered Queen Sollel’s words earlier. “The queen, her,” Cira said, pointing at Sollel, “wants me to tell you that you can join the fight if you want. She will leave the soldier’s fate in your hands.”

All the demi-human’s expression darkened. Every one of them had a grudge against the soldiers employed by the Duves family. These merciless soldiers toyed and beat them up for their entertainment. They violated their wives and daughters mercilessly while laughing at their misery. And now with the queen’s permission, all the demi-humans leaped and sprinted toward the soldiers to rip them apart without mercy.

“Hakken!” Sollel made a path of flame for Hakken to escape while the soldiers were being beaten to death by the demi-humans.

Seeing the Duves family’s destruction, the water sorcerer tried to run, but Sollel’s flame effortlessly caught up to him and burned him. Sollel had no mercy for anyone who helped the Duves family enslave the halflings and demi-humans. She didn’t care if their participation was big or small; if they lent their hands to the Duves family, they had to be burned.

Ishya witnessed her family being destroyed. She wanted nothing more but to grieve for her father, give him a good burial, and avenge him, but she chose her own survival. She chose to go back to the red-light district, take all the golds and the women, and relocate. But before her plan could even begin, Cira’s arrow penetrated her heart, and she died before she could even flee.

“That’s for all the women you traumatized, violated, and killed,” said Cira before she turned to her highness and followed her.

Stopping in front of the flame sorcerer, Sollel raised her hand to the chest level and conjured a flame to finish the sorcerer in front of her when, suddenly, the sorcerer’s body erupted with fire; however, it was not burning him. Sollel didn’t do it, so she stepped back for precaution. The sorcerer’s flame soared into the air, leaving the sorcerer’s body, confusing Sollel.

What’s happening with his flame? she asked herself. After leaving the sorcerer’s body, the flame was now hovering in the air, turning into a ball of flame.

Sollel’s confusion was soon answered when the ball of flame floated toward her and stopped in front of her chest. The ball of flame was emitting a familiar fire essence.

My essence! she thought. Sollel raised her hand to touch the ball of flame, and immediately, the ball of flame wrapped around her hand, greeting her as if it missed her, and then slowly blended with her own flame, helping her recover a small part of her strength.

That’s when it dawned on Sollel. I blessed their lineage with my flame. That means all the flame sorcerers from every generation are carrying a miniscule amount of my essence. The stronger the flame sorcerer, the stronger my essence in his or her body.

Sollel chuckled at the realization, making her feel pleased and happy. She finally found a way to help her recover her full strength.

It’s mine to begin with, she told herself. I just want it back. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 15

CHAPTER 15

“YOUR NAME is Balgrath?” Cira was interrogating the demi-human from the black wolf tribe who volunteered to remain with them after all the demi-humans and halflings left Belrac to go to Adral, a place Hakken suggested. Apparently, it’s a town that accepted and respected the halfling and demi-human race without prejudice.

Balgrath actually kneeled in front of Sollel so he could accompany her group in their journey. The middle-aged demi-human male wanted to serve and protect the queen in any way he could for saving his tribesmen and other demi-humans like him.

In truth, Balgrath had no idea which race the queen belonged to; it didn’t really matter to him. Even his life was not enough as repayment for what the queen did for them—saving them when she didn’t have to. It was very much appreciated, and he decided to show his appreciation by offering his life to the queen.

And the queen reluctantly accepted fealty of Balgrath, the demi-human warrior.

Sollel needed another warrior since after they reach the city of Ager, the capital of Treterra, Hakken would no longer be with them. Though Sollel knew she could probably employ Hakken after that, but she didn’t want to drag him into her fight. Anyone who helped her save Gatria would be condemned by humanity. Hunter or not, she didn’t want to put Hakken in a position where he’d be hunted and chastised. He had helped her enough.

If only the one who freed me was here. That thought always came to Sollel’s mind. To be able to free her from the moonrite prison, to be able to go against the Infernal Empire, that person must’ve been powerful. But after freeing me, that person didn’t show themselves again, like they didn’t care what happens next.

Sollel took a deep breath before glancing at Balgrath, who was being interrogated by Cira while they were eating in a tavern in Belrac. Sollel didn’t mind the people around them who were looking weirdly at their table because they were sharing a meal with a demi-human, which humans considered a low being—a slave.

Yes, they hadn’t left Belrac. After destroying the Duves family, Cira felt hungry, so they looked for a tavern.

“Your name is too long,” Cira complained while eating a fried fowl’s leg. “Anyway, after what happened with Len, I’m not going to trust you easily, you hear me? You must prove yourself!

Balgrath bowed his head at Cira. “Whatever Lady Cira wishes.”

Cira looked pleased. “Good. Good. But your name is still too long.”

“Just call him Grath.” Sollel casually gave Balgrath a nickname to stop Cira’s complaints, not realizing what she just did.

Balgrath looked pleased with his new name, and because everyone was too focused on the food and in the conversation, they didn’t see the lavalike liquid that swirled inside Balgrath’s eyes for a split second the moment Sollel gave him the nickname. Even the Balgrath himself didn’t feel it until later.

“Thank you, Your Highness.” Grath respectfully bowed his head at Sollel. “Your Highness, I suggest we leave Belrac immediately. News travels fast. The Kingdom of Treterra will immediately send an army here to imprison or kill anyone responsible for what happened to the Duves family.”

Hakken, who was putting food on Sollel’s plate, nodded with Grath. “I agree with Grath. We should leave immediately. The Duves family is one of the highest profit makers in the kingdom after all. With their family and livelihood destroyed here in Belrac, the kingdom will surely be angry that they lost a great deal of income.”

“Then let’s eat fast and leave,” said Sollel while trying to plan ahead.

Sollel tried her best not to leave a mark while traveling to avoid alerting the four kingdoms where she was, but after what she did to the Duves family, not only the empire but also the Kingdom of Treterra would be after her now.

But maybe that’s for the best. If they sent someone to subjugate me, they will surely send a powerful one. I would appreciate it greatly if they send a flame sorcerer. But Sollel’s main problem was the moonrite stone. If the kingdom or the empire would indeed send someone, she was sure that they would be carrying a moonrite stone to weaken her. That was their only way to defeat her, after all.

Sollel sighed in secret as she listened to the conversation in their table.

“You should take that off,” Cira said, pointing the slave collar on Grath’s neck. “The slave contract had been severed by the contract holder’s death, and you’re not a slave anymore.”

Grath shook his head. “This will make our travel easier. Everyone would think that I’m a slave, and they won’t question it.”

“But…” Cira hated seeing the slave collar on someone. “That’s not fair for you.”

A small smile appeared on Grath’s lips. “Letting me eat with you on the same table is enough for a demi-human like me.”

“Don’t put yourself down, Grath,” Sollel said willfully. “You should be proud that you’re from black wolf tribe. Your tribe is honest, strong, and valiant. They call creatures like you demi-humans for having a humanlike feature, but really, you’re more human to me than they are. Humans…” Sollel continued, her voice filled with hatred and disdain, “their skin is so thick that they didn’t feel anything after betraying the ones who helped them. Their teeth are sharp and greedy, biting the hand that feeds them. In truth, humans are the real monsters. Look at what they did to Azitera to satiate their greed.” Sollel stood and left the tavern while the three who were left behind on the table were silent.

“I hate humans,” Grath said in a low voice, “but compared to the hatred I heard from Her Highness’s voice, mine seems miniscule.”

Hakken sighed, and Cira lost her appetite.

Hakken followed Sollel outside the tavern. He found her sitting in the wagon and hugging her old cloak.

Hakken went inside the wagon and sat in front of Sollel. “My lady?”

“I hate humans. I hate them to the core of my being.” A tear fell from Sollel’s eyes. It was her first tear after centuries. “I don’t care if they’re innocent or not. My people were innocent too, but humans slaughtered them without mercy. They hunted them down like cattle! Exploited their weakness! Treating them like savages! Forcing my people to go into hiding, to live deep in the forest! I will never forgive them. Azitera is not made for humans alone, it’s for everyone! It’s for every living and nonliving thing! My hatred will never be appeased even after I burn every single human in Azitera.”

Hakken shivered at the intensity of Sollel’s hatred. He couldn’t even say anything to calm her down because he knew it would be useless. Her hatred ran too deep.

“Hakken,” Sollel mumbled, her voice softened. Hakken was taken aback.

“Yes, my lady?”

“You’re not human, right?” Sollel hoped he wasn’t. “Tell me you’re not.”

Hakken reached out his hand to touch the face that hid under the hood. He felt her soft and delicate face, and then, he felt her tears—the tears of the strongest woman he knew. Her hatred, her grief, and her resilience. He felt them, and he didn’t want to lie in front of such a genuine emotion.

“Yes. I’m not human,” Hakken answered honestly.

Drying her tears with his fingers, Hakken felt Sollel smiled at his answer.

“That’s good.” Sollel smiled in relief. “I don’t have to kill you after all.”

Hakken stilled before his expression softened. “I wouldn’t have mind dying by your hands, my lady.”

Sollel chuckled. “Flirtatious as ever.”

Hakken chuckled as well. “I can’t seem to help it when I’m near you, my lady. Too bad it’s not working.”

Sollel shook her head in amusement. “Hakken, I’m not the kind of woman that can be won with mere flirtations.”

Hakken’s expression became serious as he asked, “How about if I gave you the whole Azitera? Would that be enough?”

Sollel blinked in shock. “What?”

Hakken just smiled and pulled away his hand from Sollel’s face. And Sollel didn’t press for more answers from Hakken after sensing Cira’s and Grath’s presence.

When Cira entered the wagon, Hakken already moved to the front seat of the wagon together with Grath, who was holding the horse’s rein.

“We shouldn’t leave through the town’s gate,” said Grath while signaling the horse to move.

“Do you have any suggestion?” Hakken asked the demi-human beside him.

Grath nodded. “Lord Tane has a secret passage he used to leave town in secret. We could use that to avoid detection.”

Hakken agreed. “I will leave the wagon to your capable hands then.”

Grath was happy to be of service immediately and signaled the horse to move in the direction he wanted. And it was a blessing that they had Grath with them because, at that moment, an army of the kingdom arrived at the gate, inspecting everyone coming in and out of Belrac.

♕♕♕

FABERION CITY, INFERNAL EMPIRE

In the throne room, in front of Emperor Gabrien, the three important ministers bowed their heads and greeted the emperor at the same time, “Greetings, Your Highness!”

Emperor Gabrien immediately looked sharp and gave his full attention to his three ministers. “What is it that you want to tell me?”

The three were nervous, but the information they had should be heard by the emperor.

It was the Ministry of Forging who stepped bravely and bowed to the emperor again. “I bear some bad news, Your Highness.”

Emperor Gabrien immediately became agitated, but he remained calm in front of his ministers. “What is it?”

“We have received countless complaints from the merchants. They claimed that our weapons have become dull and breakable. They say that they were losing profits because of how weak our weapons had become. They demanded a replacement, so I personally supervised the forging to check their claims, and after inspecting the last batch of weapons we made, the merchant claims were indeed true! But what I don’t understand is we followed the exact procedure, but the weapons came out different. Is this because we don’t have the Mistress of Flame’s blood? That was the only missing ingredient—”

“Silence!” Emperor Gabrien’s voice echoed throughout the throne room that the Ministry of Forging trembled and kneeled.

“It’s my fault that our weapons have become weak, Your Highness! I will accept any punishment!”

Emperor Gabrien let out a sigh and looked at the Ministry of Commerce, discarding the Ministry of Forging. “And you? What do you want to tell me?”

The Ministry of Commerce bowed down, his hands trembling with nervousness. “Th-the problem is connected to what the Ministry of Forging has told His Highness. Because of what happened to our weapons, we are not accumulating the same profit as before. Merchants didn’t want to buy our weapons anymore, and they demanded a refund, causing for our income to decline by fifteen percent. And if this continued, if our weapons remained weak and easy to break, we will lose the merchants’ trust, and they might start trading with the dwarves instead—”

The emperor slammed his fist on his chair’s armrest but didn’t say anything, though it was enough for the Ministry of Commerce to stop talking.

The Ministry of Finance stepped bravely and bowed his head, not minding the emperor’s temper. “Your Highness, to keep up with our large weapon production every year, I gave a large fund to the Ministry of Forging to use in our weapons production this year with double the profit expectation and calculation. But after what happened with our weapons, we lost a large sum of our budget, and if we couldn’t rectify this, I’m afraid the empire will suffer more large losses in the coming years.”

Emperor Gabrien’s hands were trembling in anger. All along, he thought their weapons were indestructible because of his empire’s forging skills, but now the truth slapped him in the face. The reason his father and forefather treasured that damn Mistress of Flame, why his ancestors didn’t kill her, was this.

Her blood was indeed the reason for their weapons’ strength. And I let her escape easy!

Emperor Gabrien stood and ordered, “Use every strength the empire has to hunt down the Mistress of Flame! Do not rest until she’s back in her moonrite prison!”

The Ministry of Forging nodded because he knew the importance of that woman, but the Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Finance couldn’t understand the emperor’s order that they voiced out their disagreement.

“Your Highness, we should focus more on our weapons.”

“Your Highness, I beg you, please, we have to formulate a plan to save the empire.”

“Silence.” Emperor Gabrien clicked his tongue and looked at the large glass window on the side of the throne room. “All the empire’s problems will be solved after we drag that woman back into her moonrite prison.”

“Your Highness…”

Emperor Gabrien gritted his teeth. “She is the nutrients of the Infernal Empire, and we will drag her back to where she belongs—in prison.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 16

CHAPTER 16

“LORD Hakken, this path is crawling with bandits,” Grath warned Hakken as their wagon entered the forest that separated the town of Belrac and Castetava. After traveling on a grassy plain for two days, they finally arrived at the border of the two towns. “When traveling before, we demi-humans always avoid this place.”

“Don’t worry about it, Grath.” Hakken discarded Grath’s warning while sharpening his war blades. “I will kill whoever dares to block out path.”

Grath nodded, and he felt reassured. He saw how Lord Hakken fought the Duves family’s soldiers. He was spectacular with his war blades. Lord Hakken was the warrior Grath aspired to be so he could be of use to her highness.

Inside the wagon, Cira was peeking in the front before she moved to sit beside Sollel and whispered, “Your Highness, didn’t you make Hakken’s weapon into flaming war blades when we were fighting the Duves family? Why is it still intact?”

Sollel smiled at Cira’s scrutinizing tone. “I used my normal flame to bless his war blades. If it was my blood flame, he would’ve melted together with his blades.”

“Oh.” Cira’s question was finally answered. “By the way, Your Highness, about the moonrite stone,” Cira whispered so only they could hear. “I’m still analyzing it, and it is a very slow process since I can’t do it while we’re traveling or it’ll affect you.”

“It’s okay,” Sollel said, even though it would be a great help if Cira did find a stone that could negate the moonrite’s effect on her. “Take your time.”

Cira nodded and smiled. “That’s why I decided to stay in a different inn when we reach the town of Castetava. I have to focus all my essence in analyzing the stone, and I can only do that if you’re far away, Your Highness. After what we did to the Duves family, the empire and the kingdom will surely send someone to subjugate you. We have to be ready in case they used a moonrite stone on you.”

Sollel smiled at Cira, overflowing with gratitude. Without her, Sollel seriously thought she would certainly have a hard time. She took back her words before—Cira was dependable in more ways than one.

“Thank you, Cira.”

Cira beamed in happiness. “My pleasure, Your Highness. By the way”—Cira’s expression became serious—“about your flame essence, I think sucking your own flame essence from the flame sorcerers could help you recover in a way, but I think you have to be closer to the flame sorcerer to take back your essence. But this is not certain, and I have to conduct more studies. Meaning, I can only give you a definite answer after we catch another flame sorcerer and experiment on them since I didn’t see what exactly happened with that flame sorcerer from the Duves family. I have to see for myself since it was my elven eyes that are doing the work.”

Sollel nodded. She was determined to get her essence back from the flame sorcerers. It was mine to begin with, she told herself. Then a thought flashed in Sollel’s mind. “Hey, Cira?”

“Yes, Your Highness?”

“I know it’s a rare item, but do you think we can get our hands on an essence vessel?” It was basically a hallowed container made of rare stones. Only a few dwarf artisans could make it, but it was seldom made because of its rare materials.

Cira’s shoulder fell, and she pouted. “It’ll be an impossible task, but I’ll try looking. By the way, Your Highness, why do you need an essence vessel? I’m sure you can immediately take back your essence from those good-for-nothing flame sorcerers.”

“It’s not for me,” Sollel shook her head as she answered. “It’s for the others,” Sollel explained. “I’m sure that along the way, we will find and fight different kinds of sorcerers. I don’t know if I could be able to contain other sorcerers’ essence that was not flame in an essence vessel, but I’m still willing to try. For Gatria, Aenwyn, and Astrid.”

Cira blew a loud breath. “So you need three of them?”

Sollel nodded. “Yes.”

Cira heaved a deep sigh; she felt hopeless because she knew how rare it was. “I’ll try to look for it, but it’ll be like looking for a needle in haystack.”

“Thank you, Cira.”

Cira smiled at Sollel. “Always my pleasure, Your Highness! You’re my favorite queen after all.”

Sollel chuckled at that as she leaned on the wagon’s side wall. “Back in the day, compared to the other queens, I’m the least favorite of our people and other races because of my destructive flame. They’re all afraid of me—with good reasons.”

Cira’s lips parted. This was the first time Queen Sollel shared her past with her. Cira was grateful and emotional that she was close to crying. She was just controlling her emotions because Queen Sollel might stop sharing her past with her if she cried.

“The second least favorite was Astrid.” Sollel smiled at the memory. To others, they were queens of Yther, but to them, they were like sisters—they treated one another like one. “Astrid was fierce. She roamed and reigned the sky with her wings. She was brilliant in hand-to-hand combat. She took down a lot of strong men.”

Cira’s eyes were twinkling while listening to Queen Sollel’s story. Queen Astrid really has wings! The story is real!

“And then, Gatria—she was hailed by our people as the sword goddess.” Sollel remembered the time when Gatria was working hard to teach her how to wield a sword. “She was magnificent with swords, and she takes pride in it, well, until someone defeated her for the first time. She was livid. She couldn’t accept her defeat and went to challenge the warrior again, but alas, she couldn’t find him.”

Cira’s lips were now o -shaped. Hearing the story straight from the lips of one of Yther’s queens, Cira felt like she was the luckiest elf ever!

“And of course, Aenwyn.” Sollel shook her head with a smile, remembering her memories with Aenwyn. “Our powers cancel each other out, but we were very close. Aenwyn was everyone’s favorite. She was the most beautiful of all. She covers half of her face to hide her beauty and to hide from men who wouldn’t stop courting her and offering her their kingdoms. She looks so serene most of the time, but her temper was second to mine. If I could raze hell and burn everyone when mad, Aenwyn could devour and sink any land. So Gatria and Astrid tend to go soft on us, afraid that we might snap and destroy Azitera.

Slowly, Sollel’s happy smile turned bitter. “And then that hateful night happened. I lost everything and everyone I cared about. And now, here I am, guilty at the thought that I will break my promise to Gatria and Astrid. I will raze hell, and I will cover the whole Azitera with my flames. I will have my vengeance, and my flames will burn and devour the soul of my betrayers.”

Cira shuddered at Queen Sollel’s last words. Her hatred for humans really had no bounds.

Sensing Sollel’s anger, Cira tried to change the topic. “When we arrive at the capital of Treterra, what are we going to do next? I only know that Queen Gatria is in Treterra because of the story, but I’m not sure where she is exactly.”

“Not a problem,” Sollel assured Cira. “I can feel her presence. Once we arrive in the city of Ager, I will know where she is.”

Cira clasped her hands in joy. “That’s one less problem to worry about.”

Sollel nodded. “Yes, so you should rest and stop worrying about it. It’ll be fine.”

Cira nodded and immediately lay on the wagon to rest. She needed her strength to analyze the moonrite stone once they arrive at Castetava.

Sollel just continued leaning on the wagon’s side wall, listening to the sounds around them and glancing at Hakken’s back from time to time.

♕♕♕

“COME AGAIN?” Xeke asked Commander Gabin like he couldn’t believe what he just heard. His friend, the warlord, left his castle? “You’re not pulling my leg, are you, Gabin? He left his castle for real? Like…really leave, as in, out for weeks and not just visiting the empire’s capital?”

Commander Gabin nodded at the warlord’s friend, Xeke, who couldn’t seem to believe Gabin’s answer to his question about the whereabouts of the warlord. “He left some time ago, Lord Xeke.”

Xeke was still in awe after a while. Who wouldn’t be if they knew the warlord? His friend didn’t like leaving his castle except when he’s subjugating bandits and going to war against the rebels. His friend hated the outside world, that’s why he tended to stay home in his castle. “Tell me, Gabin, the warlord didn’t leave for fun, right?”

Gabin nodded, and Xeke smiled in relief. I was right after all.

“Where is he off to?”

“He’s hunting someone. The empire asked him to.”

Xeke clicked his tongue when he heard the empire’s connection in all of this. “Who is he hunting?”

Gabin shook his head. “He didn’t tell me.”

“Where is he now?”

“Last time I heard from him, he said he’s already in the Kingdom of Treterra.”

Xeke sighed and got up from his seat. “If he contacted you again, tell him I’m meeting him in the Moonhammer in Ager.”

Gabin nodded and bowed his head, and when Gabin looked up, Xeke was no longer in front of him. That didn’t surprise Gabin; he was used to it already. Xeke was also a descendant of Sappher, and his ashrune dagger—an arcane weapon that only he could wield—gave him the ability to move his body from one place to another. Gabin was not really certain how Lord Xeke moved around using his dagger, but he was a very slippery fellow. Defeating him in battle was an impossible fate to most people.

Except for the warlord, of course.

♕♕♕

ON THEIR WAY to Castetava, Sollel’s group only stopped twice for two reasons: to let the horse rest and to find water and take a bath. Sollel and Cira were very concerned with their cleanliness that they had to stop from time to time to clean up. And that day, Grath finally found a stream where the ladies could wash and freshen up.

Pulling up the wagon, Grath positioned it in a way that it would serve as a cover for Her Highness and Lady Cira while bathing in the stream, while he and Lord Hakken were on the other side, making a small campfire to warm everyone at night.

Hakken couldn’t help his smile when El emerged from the other side of the wagon, wearing her old cloak. “That cloak suits you better.”

Sollel just smiled but didn’t say anything. She just sat on one of the old logs around and closed her eyes to focus on feeling her flame. But how could she when she felt Hakken sitting on the log beside her?

Sollel opened her eyes. “There’s a lot of old logs, Hakken.”

“I like this one better.”

Sollel just sighed. She was used to Hakken’s flirtations that she just let him be. “Are we going to stay here for the night?”

Hakken looked at Grath, who was manning the campfire. “Grath said he didn’t smell any humans in the air.”

Sollel’s eyebrow raised. “He could do that?”

“Apparently, yes. And the horse needs to rest, so we will resume our travel tomorrow.” Hakken glanced at Sollel. “Are you excited to reach Castetava?”

“Not really,” Sollel answered honestly. “I just want to eat something savory.”

Hakken became silent for a while before he said, “My lady shouldn’t hope too much. Castetava is a very destitute town.”

Sollel frowned. The Kingdom of Treterra has Gatria in their prison. Why would a town under them be unprosperous?

Cira, who just came back from bathing, chimed in as she sat on the log near the campfire. “The Kingdom of Treterra is known for their abundant agriculture, while the Infernal Empire is known for their weapons and forging. And just like the empire, Treterra prioritizes the nobles before the commoners, so the poor becomes poorer and the rich becomes richer. It’s not only obvious in the empire because most of the towns and cities under them has their own livelihood, but here in Treterra, the gap is clear.”

“I don’t understand.” Sollel was confused. “The commoners, don’t they have lands to farm?”

Grath answered, “As we go on, Her Highness will see why it’s hard to farm in Treterra even though they are known for their agriculture.”

“After passing this forest, you will see the real Kingdom of Treterra,” said Hakken.

What everyone said kept Sollel awake. She couldn’t sleep in the wagon, so she stepped out to breathe some fresh air.

Sollel was planning to sit on the log again, to clear her mind, but the campfire from earlier had already been extinguished. What’s left was Grath sleeping on the ground and Hakken sleeping on the other side of the campfire, on the ground, with his arm as his pillow and his cloak as his cover.

Unlike Grath who had thick fur, Hakken only had a cloak for cover, and it was obvious that he was cold.

Sitting on the log near Hakken, Sollel spread her essence and wrapped it around Hakken to warm and protect his body from the cold night. She continued protecting Hakken from cold until dawn broke.

When everyone woke up, Sollel had already boiled some water using her flame, and they were all ready to leave.

Mounting the wagon, the four left and went back to the path toward Castetava. Their travel was smooth, no bandits or beasts along the way. But just when everyone thought that it’d be a smooth travel from here on out, they stumbled upon two individuals fighting in the middle of the path.

One was a female flame sorcerer and the other one was a man with a dagger. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 17

CHAPTER 17

SOLLEL, Cira, Hakken, and Grath didn’t know what to think about the two individuals blocking the path. The woman was too focused holding her staff with a red stone on top, while the man with a dagger was eyeing the flame sorcerer, ready to pounce. And just when they thought a deadly fight would break out, the female flame sorcerer turned around and started running away.

And the man with a dagger gave chase.

Cira’s head tilted to the side in confusion. “Huh?”

Grath cupped his chin intelligently and said, “That’s the most coward flame sorceress I have ever seen.”

Hakken also had a confused expression. “What are they doing?”

The four who left the wagon to check what was happening sighed simultaneously as they watched how the two chased each other around the path—the woman running away from the man.

“I don’t know! I don’t know what you’re talking about! Please! Leave me alone!” The female flame sorcerer was close to crying her heart out.

“How could you not know? You’re a flame sorcerer, right? And you’re carrying that powerful staff!” The man with a dagger shouted in frustration. “Stop running away!”

“Then stop chasing me and put that dagger away!”

The man with a dagger clicked his tongue and threw his dagger upward. When the dagger was in midair, instead of falling, it multiplied into ten daggers, and each dagger flew down to different directions.

The female flame sorcerer did not mind even if a dagger dropped in front of her; she just kept running. But in a blink of an eye, the man chasing was in front of her.

The flame sorceress immediately turned around and ran in a different direction, and the same thing happened. The man just appeared out of thin air in front of her. But the flame sorceress was a resilient woman. She didn’t give up and continued running, only to be blocked by the man again.

“How is he doing that?” Cira asked in amazement while watching the chase.

“The daggers,” Sollel answered after observing. “He’s using the daggers to move from one place to another.”

Cira’s lips formed into an o . “Like teleportation?”

“In a way, yes,” Sollel answered with a shrug. “It’s actually an impressive ability but frustrating if he was your enemy.”

Hakken clicked his tongue. “It’s not that impressive.”

Cira snickered at the bitterness of Hakken’s voice. “Why so bitter, Hakken? Jealous, aren’t we? Well, for one, he’s more handsome than you, and he looked younger too.”

Hakken snorted, and Sollel let out a soft chuckle, seeing how annoyed Hakken looked.

Their conversation stopped when they all saw the man with a dagger capture the sorceress at last. Everyone thought the man was going to hurt her, but the opposite happened. The man actually handed his dagger to the woman.

“Bless my dagger with your flame,” the man demanded.

The sorceress, who tripped and landed butt first on the ground, glared at the man. “And I told you again and again, I can’t do that!”

“Why not?! You’re a flame sorcerer, aren’t you? I want my dagger to be wrapped in flames like my warlord friend.”

The sorceress eyes sharpened even more. “Are you dense? I told you I can’t do it! If I can, I would have, but I really can’t! Plus, I don’t even know you. I was minding my own business, walking to Castetava when you just appeared and started chasing me!”

“Because you’re a flame sorceress. Why can’t you bless my dagger?” The man with a dagger seemed like he wouldn’t let it go unless he got an answer.

The sorceress looked down, tears falling from her eyes as she whispered pathetically, “Because I can’t even make a fireball…”

The man with a dagger lost all the expression on his handsome face and stared blankly at the sorceress. “What?”

The sorceress sniffed while crying her heart out. “I’m a very weak flame sorceress, okay? You understand now?”

The man with a dagger grimaced. “You’re very weak, but you had the gall to take this path and walk in this forest?” The man pointed the staff with a stone the sorceress was carrying. “How about that? That’s a powerful staff you got. That’s why I wanted you to bless my dagger.”

The crying sorceress played with her fingers while still looking down. “It’s an heirloom from my family. My grandmother gave it to me before I left our village to travel and experience the world.”

The man gave the sorceress a dirty look. “Your grandma actually let you travel knowing how weak you are?”

Hakken blew a loud breath, hearing the conversation that did not concern them. “Can you two let us pass already? You two are blocking the way.”

Faster than Sollel could blink, the man threw his dagger at Hakken, and in a heartbeat, he was in front of Hakken. Hakken had his war blades drawn, blocking the man’s attack.

Sollel already had her flame ready to assist and protect Hakken when the man jumped back and sheathed his dagger before introducing himself like nothing happened. “I’m Xeke, a traveler.”

Hakken didn’t reply and just snorted. It was Cira who eagerly introduced herself. “I’m Ciradyl, an elf.”

Xeke blinked at Cira. “What is an elf out doing here? So far away from the sacred forest.”

Cira pouted. “It’s not a good story to tell. Anyway,” Cira continued, motioning her hand toward Hakken. “This is Hakken. He’s a hunter we hired to accompany us to the city of Ager. And then this is Grath. He’s our demi-human companion. And this is Que—I mean, El. She’s a friend of mine.”

“Nice meeting you all.” Xeke smiled at everyone, and it made him look even more handsome than earlier. “I’m going to Ager too. Mind if I tagged along? We’re going in the same direction anyway. We can protect each other if bandits and beasts came.”

Hakken’s answer was immediate. “No. We can manage.”

“Of course, you can tag along.” Sollel had an opposite answer to Hakken, and Sollel’s answer had more weight than Hakken’s.

However, Sollel agreed not because they needed a helping hand dealing with bandits and beasts; what she really wanted was to see and observe the dagger up close. If I’m not mistaken, that’s the ashrune dagger, she thought.

Sollel was curious how the man got his hands on one of the arcane weapons of Sappher.

The Kingdom of Sappher had always been at odds with the Kingdom of Yther before Yther’s queens defeated the warlords of Sappher in a war. If Yther was known for their four queens, then Sappher was known for their seven warlords—they are the kings of the Kingdom of Sappher.

Is this Xeke a descendant of Sappher? No one could wield the arcane weapons other than the Sapphers. And meeting one here, in the middle of the forest, Sollel was not convinced that it was a coincidence.

“C-can I tag along too? I-I’m Zassia,” The flame sorceress said, clutching her staff while looking pitiful in front of Sollel’s group. “I’m going to Ager too to see my grandfather.”

Cira smiled at the flame sorceress. “Of course!” Another flame essence for her highness. Cira’s smile turned into an evil grin making the sorceress step back.

“Um, on second thought…” The flame sorceress kept stepping back after she saw the evil grin on the elf’s lips. “I rather walk…”

“What are you talking about?” Cira grabbed the flame sorceress and dragged her to their wagon. “Come on! Don’t be scared. We won’t bite.”

Sollel shook her head as she watched Cira enter the wagon with the flame sorceress. Looks like she found someone to experiment on. Then Sollel turned to Hakken who looked sullen.

With a teasing smile, Sollel went to stand beside Hakken. “Are you sulking?”

“Yes,” Hakken answered indignantly.

Sollel couldn’t help chuckling. “The wagon’s front seat is still yours. I will let you keep it.”

Hakken sulked even more. “My lady, I am not that cheap—”

Sollel slightly pulled back her hood to show Hakken half her face, from the tip of her nose down to her lips. “Please play nice for me, hmm?”

Seeing half of Sollel’s face, Hakken nodded in a daze. “Okay.”

Sollel smiled. Seeing her smile with his own eyes for the first time, Hakken was speechlessly frozen, and he was only able to pull himself together when Sollel went back to the wagon.

“Lord Hakken?” Grath called Hakken thrice before Hakken reacted.

“Y-yeah?”

“Let’s go?”

Hakken was still in a little daze after mounting the wagon, and Xeke who saw what happened snickered.

“That woman got you good, my friend.” Xeke grinned teasingly at Hakken.

Hakken grimaced at Xeke. “You are not my friend.”

Xeke shrugged. “Come on, don’t be so uptight. We are traveling together now, and that makes us friends.” Then Xeke glanced at Grath who was sitting on the front wagon together with the two. “Right, Grath?”

Grath nodded and focused his attention on the path, while Hakken was looking at Xeke with disdain.

“Why are you sitting next to me?” Hakken clicked his tongue. “Grath should be in the center, not you, since he’s the one reining the horse.”

“You should rest, Grath.” Xeke grabbed the rein from Grath and smiled. “There. Now I’m allowed to be in the center.”

Hakken wanted nothing more than to throw this annoying traveler off the wagon, but he remembered his lady’s request—play nice for her. Well, I get to see her lips. I should play nice, Hakken reasoned with himself and just stayed silent.

♕♕♕

ALONG THE WAY, Cira chatted with the flame sorceress to distract her while her eyes were analyzing the sorceress. Meanwhile, Sollel’s sight never left the sorceress, assessing her and the staff she carried. And when the flame sorceress finally let down her guard and fell asleep, Cira moved to sit beside Sollel and whispered, “Can you take back your flame essence from this distance, Your Highness, or do you have to be closer to her?”

Sollel sighed and leaned on the wagon’s wall as she answered in a whisper as well, “Taking back my essence from her is a waste of my time and effort.”

Cira looked at Sollel and blinked. “Huh? Why?”

“The flame essence in her body is so tiny that taking it back wouldn’t make any difference,” Sollel said, uninterested. “No wonder she’s weak.”

Cira looked at the sleeping flame sorceress in disbelief. “She’s that weak? No wonder she couldn’t even make a fireball. But that staff of hers, I don’t need to use my eyes to appraise it to know that it’s strong.”

Sollel sighed and looked at the sorceress staff. “Yes, that staff of hers is powerful. That red stone on top is a firestone. If I took its essence, I might recover one-fourth of my strength.”

Cira immediately became excited and urged Sollel, “Take it now while she’s still sleeping.”

Sollel shook her head. “I need to be in a quiet environment to absorb the firestone essence. I can’t do it here in the wagon.”

Cira touched her chin while thinking deeply. “Then let’s pull over the wagon and do it.”

Sollel shook her head and pointed Xeke who’s on the wagon’s front seat. “We have company. We can’t be too reckless.” Sollel glanced at the sorceress. “She’ll be traveling with us to Ager anyway. We have time.”

Cira nodded with determination. “I will not take my eyes off of her then.”

Sollel smiled, amused at Cira’s seriousness. “It’s okay if you did. She can’t run away from me anyway. After making contact with my flame essence inside her, I can find her anywhere in Azitera.”

Cira’s lips parted in amazement. “You can do that? Is that also the reason why you can sense the other queens?”

Sollel shook her head. “With them, sensing each other’s presence is as natural as breathing for us.”

Cira’s eyes twinkled. I learned a new information again. Yes!

Sollel frowned when she saw Cira pull out a leather-bound book from her satchel and then started writing on it.

“What are you doing?” Sollel asked when she saw her name written in the book, together with the other queens.

Cira continued writing as she answered, “I write everything I learn about Yther’s queens in this book. Every single detail. My grandmother gave it to me as her memento before I was kicked out from the sacred forest.” Cira smiled even though her story was emotional. “Your Highness, after you get your revenge and Azitera is back to the way it was, I will publish a book about you and the others. That’s my dream, and I will make it happen.”

Sollel’s expression softened while watching Cira write in her book. She told me she has personal reason why she wanted to accompany me. Is this it?

Sollel raised her hand and messed Cira’s hair. “Write a book about me and the others? You remind me of someone.”

Oh! My! Deities! The queen is messing my hair! Yay! Cira wanted to squeal, but she contained herself and just wrote it in her book.

Sollel chuckled when she read what Cira just wrote. “You should rest, Cira.”

“Hmm.” Cira nodded and went to sleep after putting back her book in her satchel.

Sollel stayed awake and alert, just in case, but their travel was smooth. There were beasts along the way, but Xeke took care of them pretty fast, making Hakken sullen.

After a whole day’s travel, they finally found a good spot for the horse to rest. From pulling four people, now the horse was pulling six. The intervals between the horse’s rest had become short because of too many passengers in the wagon; in short, it was exhausted, and it needed a rest.

After pulling over the wagon, everyone was sitting on the ground, gathered around the campfire made by Hakken. Everyone was eating their provision except for Zassia. She was holding the dried meat close to her face, and she was uttering something they couldn’t hear.

Everyone just let her be, but not Cira. As curious as she was.

“What are you doing?”

Zassia finished what she was muttering first before answering Cira and grilling her meat on the campfire. “Praying to Queen Sollel.”

Sollel nearly choked on her food, coughing vigorously, until Hakken—who was sitting beside her—handed her water.

“Thank you,” said Sollel after she calmed her throat with water.

“Queen Sollel?” Xeke asked Zassia after a while. “Isn’t she the one who tried to kill all the humans?”

Zassia shook her head, smiling softly while staring at the campfire. “Queen Sollel would never do that. She’s the Mistress of Flame, Queen of Fire as my whole village calls her. She is the queen that we worshiped in our village. She was the one who blessed the humans with flame to protect themselves from beasts back in the day, the reason why humans, as weak as we are, could wield the power of the flame. Flame sorcerers and sorceresses are born because of her blessing. That’s why I’m thanking her and praying to her.”

“If she could bless someone and give them the strength of the flame, where is she now?” Xeke was interested because he wanted his dagger to be blessed by flames, just like his warlord friend.

Zassia shook her head, and her grip on her staff tightened. “No one knows. Nearly two centuries ago, something big happened, and the queens were labeled as traitors. All the people in my village, including me, don’t believe the story that the four kingdoms spread. We believed in our queen. They were not traitors. They were our protectors.”

“Do you have proof?” Xeke asked.

Zassia shook her head again as she looked down.

Xeke sighed. “If one of the kingdoms heard you, they will definitely execute you, so you better be careful with your words.”

Grath nodded, agreeing with Xeke. “You shouldn’t speak so casually about it, Lady Zassia. Humans won’t take it kindly, even if you are of the same race.”

Zassia stared at the flame. “I don’t care! They can execute me. That will not change what I believed in. The Mistress of Flame will come back one day, and she will burn everyone who dares to call her traitor.” Zassia got up with tears in her eyes and went back to the wagon.

The rest remained silent and continued eating, but not Sollel. She had lost her appetite and couldn’t stop the tear that fell from her eyes. After a while, she left the campfire to get some fresh air, away from everyone.

But just as Sollel found the perfect spot to enjoy the fresh air and silence beside the stream, she felt a presence behind her.

“Would you mind if I accompanied you, my lady?”

Sollel wanted to be alone, but she welcomed Hakken’s presence and even tapped the space beside her, inviting Hakken to sit.

Sitting beside Sollel, Hakken tried to calm his nerves, but nothing was working, especially when his lady rested her head on his shoulder.

Hakken was nervous for some reason he couldn’t identify; he was sweating even though the night air was cold, and his heart was a mess. Then he heard his lady spoke.

“Hakken?”

“H-hmm?”

“Can we stay like this for a little while?”

Hakken cleared his throat. “O-of course, my lady.”

Sollel chuckled, and after a little while, she called his name again. “Hakken?”

“Y-yes, my lady?”

“Calm down. You’re too tense.”

Easy for you to say . Hakken sulked, but he slowly calmed down after he realized that his lady had fallen asleep on his shoulder.

I wish I could be your hunter forever, but alas, everything has its limit.

Hakken pressed his lips on Sollel’s head over her hood. “I’m glad to have found you, my lady.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 18

CHAPTER 18

WHEN SOLLEL heard from Hakken, Grath, and Cira about the real condition of the Kingdom of Treterra after reaching the end of the forest, she was not expecting to see a hundred miles of barren lands. The soil was dead, the temperature was scorching, and rare kinds of beasts ran rampant.

What happened? If her memory served her right, Treterra was a land filled with trees and vegetation.

“Castetava is on the other side.” Sollel heard Hakken spoke. “There is no other route than this one.”

Seeing the dead land, Grath sighed. “The last time I passed here, you can still see Castetava at the end of the forest.”

Sollel looked ahead, but there was no town she could see. “Does that mean the barren land is spreading?”

Zassia answered Sollel because when it came to Azitera’s history, Zassia was an expert. “Yes. This dead land is eating up the forest. No one really knows why it is happening. It started as a simple drought a hundred years ago in Sarnau, the nearest town from the capital and the neighboring town of Castetava. And a hundred years later, the drought swallowed Castetava, and it is now spreading through the forest. A few years from now, it’ll reach Belrac.”

A dead soil that could swallow a forest. Sollel stepped forward and touched the earth. The moment her hand made contact with it, she immediately understood what was happening. This is Gatria’s resentment, she thought.

This was not the first time Sollel witnessed it.

Back when Yther was a prominent kingdom, some humans cut the trees and burned a part of the forest that Gatria nurtured to make a settlement. Gatria’s anger and resentment at that time caused drought, and dead soil swallowed the whole forest she once nurtured.

“How are we going to pass this barren land?” Cira asked. “It’s too hot. Our horse will surely die.”

“We walk,” Hakken answered before he freed the horse from its rein and tapped its mane. “Go.”

Watching the horse leave, everyone sighed heavily except for Sollel who was too focused on the dead soil.

“Get all your belongings in the wagon, we have to start walking before the sun goes down,” Hakken ordered everyone.

Cira immediately went back to the wagon to get her blanket and pillow, and she put it back on her satchel. She was the only one who had stuff in the wagon; when she returned to the group, they immediately set out to Castetava.

The first thing that hit the group traversing the barren land was the heat—it was scorching and dehydrating. They’ve only covered fifty meters, but they were already consuming too much water.

“Only drink when necessary,” Hakken advised. “If we ran out of water in the middle of this barren land, we’re dead.”

Xeke glared at Hakken. “I’m thirsty. Of course it’s necessary.”

“The necessary I meant is when you’re dying,” Hakken corrected himself while surveying the surrounding for any beasts.

“Cira, come walk beside me,” Sollel ordered when she looked over her shoulder and saw Cira swaying weakly like she was about to drop.

Hearing Queen Sollel, Cira immediately picked up her pace to walk beside her. And the moment Cira neared Sollel, a small gasp escaped her lips when the scorching and dehydrating heat that was consuming her body disappeared and was replaced by a warmth feeling.

Cira’s eyes fell on Sollel. Is this Queen Sollel’s essence? Cira was overwhelmed with emotion that she almost cried, but she was too dehydrated to the point that no tears fell from her eyes.

As they continued their journey for another hour, a scorching strong gust of wind carrying sand grains started to blow. Without trees to protect them from strong winds, it slammed directly through their bodies, making them stagger as they walked.

Hakken was in front, guiding everyone and trying to look for the right way in the midst of the strong, sandy winds that kept slamming into them. Everyone was looking down, protecting their eyes by lowering their heads and putting their arm over their eyes.

Because of the strong winds, the six people traversing the barren land slowed down, but they kept up their pace. They didn’t stop even though Grath was basically carrying Zassia’s body. They continued walking until the wind finally subsided.

Everyone was thankful that the winds finally died down, and just as Grath, Zassia, and Cira were about to drop on the ground to rest and loosen their guard, they all froze, realizing that they were not safe at all.

Because of the strong winds, they couldn’t clearly see their path and unknowingly walked into the middle of a confrontation between a hoard of five-meter-long scorpions and four-meter-long lizards with spiky skin all over their bodies.

They were surrounded, and there was no way out. Even the direction they came in was crawling with scorpions.

“Oh, my deities…” Cira nervously muttered, sensing the danger.

Zassia started praying to Queen Sollel. “Queen Sollel, please bless us with strength and guide us out of here with your wisdom.”

Cira glanced at Zassia blankly. How could Queen Sollel guide us with her wisdom when the Queen herself is trapped with us! Cira wanted to smack Zassia’s head for praying wrongly when Hakken spoke.

“Ready to run.”

Grath roamed his wolflike eyes. Scorpions with a deadly venom on the left and Lizard with spiky bodies that could trample anyone blocking its way on the right. “Can we even run?”

“Fight while running.” Hakken drew his war blades.

Nervous, Cira readied her bow and arrows while looking at the scorpions. Zassia was trembling as she held her staff in front of her like she was using it as a shield against the lizards. Grath, on the other hand, had his sharp claws out, and Xeke was holding his dagger in reverse, ready to use its ability to escape.

Hakken glanced at Sollel who now stood beside him. “My lady…”

“Don’t worry about me,” Sollel replied while observing their enemies.

The scorpions, she could handle since scorpions were afraid of fire. But the lizards, their skin was so thick and spiky, it could not easily be penetrated by weapons. And their weight alone could trample anyone.

“We can’t escape,” Zassia muttered under her breath, but everyone heard her.

“Thank you, Lady Zassia.” Xeke’s voice was filled with sarcasm. “Thank you for your inspiring words.”

“I’m just telling the truth,” Zassia immediately explained why she thought they couldn’t escape. “Those lizards, in contrast to their huge bodies, they’re very fast and agile, they have very thick skin that couldn’t be penetrated easily, and they’re very heavy. And those scorpions have deadly venom. One drop and you’ll be paralyzed in a matter of seconds, and you’ll die in a matter of minutes.”

Xeke clicked his tongue. “In short, we need coffins. Yay! Very motivational, Lady Zassia.”

Hakken’s expression became serious. “If we couldn’t run like planned, then we’ll force our way out.”

“Hmm.” Grath nodded, his claws sharp and ready. “Let’s fight our way out.”

Cira gripped her bow and readied five arrows in her hand. To penetrate the lizards’ and the scorpions’ skins, she covered the arrows with her essence for additional penetrative power.

“We’ll run as fast as we could. If worse comes to worst and we have to fight, we’ll split up,” Sollel suggested. “Anyone who could wield fire, we’ll face the scorpions while making a run for it, and the rest will deal with the lizards. And when you see an opening, run.”

Everyone moved according to their strength, and there’s only one person who went to stand beside Sollel to face the scorpions. It was Zassia, the weakest flame sorceress Sollel had ever met that she didn’t even bother taking her flame essence back from her.

With Zassia, Sollel felt like she’d be fighting the scorpions alone. Thankfully, Grath changed groups and sided with Sollel and Zassia. It was supposed to be Cira, but Hakken and Xeke needed a long-ranged attacker, so Cira stayed in their group while sulking.

“I’m not easily poisoned because of my black-wolf blood,” Grath said to not worry anyone. “I can handle a drop or two.”

Everyone readied themselves to run.

From Sollel’s group, Grath howled, and from Hakken’s group, Xeke threw his dagger upward. Before Grath’s howls ended and before Xeke’s dagger multiplied into ten in midair, the scorpions and lizards were already crawling to attack.

Seeing that Zassia was right about the lizard’s agility, everyone started running to get away from the center, but the scorpions and lizards were too fast that they immediately reached the center of the battlefield.

When the two groups of beasts met in the middle, they immediately clashed, killing each other. The six individuals trapped in the middle of the fight between the lizards and scorpions had no choice but to kill any beast that came their way while they ran.

“Xeke, look for the weakest spot in their bodies,” Hakken ordered Xeke because of his ability to move around fast. “We can’t win and run away if we fight them head-on. Cira, assist me until Xeke finds the lizard’s weak spot.”

Cira nodded and gripped her bow tightly. Xeke nodded as well and readied his dagger.

“Go!”

With Hakken’s order, Xeke and Cira—together with Hakken—started attacking the lizards that blocked their way, and mid-fight, Xeke disappeared as his ten daggers flew into different directions then down to different locations. Seconds later, Xeke reappeared meters away from the back of the lizard that was attacking Hakken, and his ten daggers came back to him, floating around him. By Xeke’s command, his ten daggers started flying rapidly toward the lizard, randomly hitting the its body to see its weak spot, but his daggers were thrown back after hitting a lizard’s body. It was that thick!

“Hell!” Xeke cussed and called his daggers back before repeating the same attack, hitting a different part of the lizard’s body this time.

The result did not change. Xeke couldn’t find a weak spot. He was about to try again when he saw Hakken attacking head-on.

With only his war blades, Hakken collided with the hoard of lizards blocking their path of escape without an ounce of fear. Only the movement of his blades could be seen as the lizards surrounded him, trying to have a piece of him.

“Keep looking!” Hakken hissed at Xeke in the midst of blocking and slashing the lizards surrounding and trampling him.

Xeke’s eyes sharpened. He was about to use one of his daggers to transfer himself to Hakken’s location when someone jumped behind him and made his shoulder a stepping stone to soar into the air.

When Xeke looked up to see who it was, it was Cira, shooting arrows at the eyes of the lizard surrounding Hakken. Every arrow hit its target.

Xeke’s lips parted in amazement. “She’s amazing—” But before Xeke could finish his sentence, he saw Cira falling to the ground. Before he could catch her, Cira flipped her body in midair, and her right foot landed on Xeke’s shoulder, balancing herself. “Hey! Your foot!”

Cira just chuckled at Xeke’s complaints. She was in midair again using Xeke’s shoulder to soar.

Xeke clicked his tongue in annoyance, and he used his scattered daggers to move around the battlefield, slashing and stabbing the nearest lizard’s body he could find, looking for the weak spot.

While Hakken, Cira, and Xeke were fighting all out, Sollel raised her hand to her chest level, and flames dropped on the dead soil. It immediately crawled onto the ground, blocking the scorpions’ path.

“Run!” Sollel shouted at Zassia who was pale with fear.

Zassia nodded and was about to sprint when a scorpion came out from the ground, its tail about to pierce Zassia’s chest. But a solid firewall blocked its attack and incinerated the scorpion.

Zassia’s lips parted in shock at how powerful El’s flame was. “Amazing…” She was too stunned that she forgot about the scorpions, that they were running for their lives. She just stared at El who was being attacked by countless of scorpions, but her fire was fierce and scalding, penetrating the scorpions’ bodies and burning them alive.

It was spectacular.

“Run!” Sollel shouted again. Zassia finally woke up from her reverie and started running, but her eyes were still on Sollel.

Sollel’s flames were as if they had a mind of their own. While Sollel was running away from the scorpions, her flame was running after her, protecting her back and her sides, blocking the path of the scorpions.

And then all of the sudden, the flame stopped following after Sollel, and it started moving rapidly to a different direction. It speedily formed a circle around a group of scorpions chasing them, trapping the scorpions in its center. That’s when Sollel released her fiery ball of flame, exploding and incinerating the group of scorpions inside the circle, including the nearest ones.

The impact of Sollel’s ball of flame explosion shook the ground that it caught the lizards’ attention…and Xeke’s.

“What a powerful flame sorceress…” Xeke was in awe. “Such explosive strength.”

Cira, who was assisting Hakken, grinned excitedly when she saw the explosion. “That’s my favorite queen right there!”

Though Hakken didn’t see the explosion, a proud smile was on his lips as he thought, That’s my lady. Then he tightened his hold on his war blades and started his lizard slaughter. There was someone he didn’t want to disappoint.

Meanwhile, Sollel’s breathing was uneven. It was her first time running for too long while fighting with only one-eighth of her strength. It was draining and exhausting at the same time.

Sollel distanced herself from her companion while running because of her explosive plan and was now about to run back to Zassia and Grath when she saw three scorpions coming out from the ground, surrounding the two.

Sollel immediately threw her flames to the ground. They were crawling in high speed, but Zassia and Grath were too far from her. Her flames would never reach them in time!

Hakken, Xeke, and Cira were occupied defending themselves against the lizards, and between Zassia and Grath, only Grath could fight; he was already in the middle of fighting one of the three scorpions surrounding them.

Sollel’s eyes fell on Zassia. She was holding her staff again, stumbling and tripping in her own feet while evading the scorpions’ attacks and murmuring something.

Zassia was human; if she died, Sollel wouldn’t care. She hated humans. But when Sollel saw Zassia on the brink of death, the scorpions’ tail closing to piercing her heart and stomach, Sollel remembered how much Zassia believed in her. How she would rather die and be executed than believe the four kingdoms’ lies. She was so weak, she couldn’t even make a fireball to save her life, but she still believed in the Mistress of Flame.

She still believed in me.

A lone tear fell from Sollel’s eyes as she heard Zassia’s scream for help.

“Queen Sollel, please protect me with your flame!” Zassia knew that even how hard she prayed, she might never be heard. But she still believed nonetheless.

Hearing Zassia’s desperate prayer, Sollel’s eyes glistened. A lavalike liquid swirled around her eyes as she raised her finger, pointing at Zassia’s back. “Flame of blessing, come forth and heed my will.” A bloodlike flame erupted from Sollel’s fingertip, and she felt her strength weaken. “Let her possess your strength and accept thy blessing.”

With a speed of light, the bloodlike flame flew toward Zassia, entering from her back and penetrating her heart. And when the flame carved its essence on Zassia’s soul, it released a wave of scorching heat, the force knocking back and burning the scorpions surrounding her. The red stone of the staff she was carrying glowed brightly, and the lustrous red brilliance covered the sky, blinding everyone but Sollel.

And as the red glow disappeared, it left a circle of flame around Zassia. A tear fell from her eyes as she clutched her heart and kneeled on one knee. “Thank you, my queen.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 19

CHAPTER 19

WITH A DIRECT blessing from the Mistress of Flame, Zassia’s fire was more lethal than the others who had received their flame essence through lineage. With just one wave of her staff, she made three scalding hot fireballs appear behind her, rapidly shooting at the scorpion Grath was fighting. But even though her flame was fierce, she was nothing compared to the other flame sorceresses when it came to control. In terms of attacks, she could only make fireballs because of her lack of training and experience.

But fireballs were enough to save her life and fight alongside her companion. Not being a dead weight was enough for her. So she conjured fireballs after fireballs, shooting at the scorpions and helping her group escape.

Looking at Zassia really trying hard to help everyone with her blessing, Sollel felt no regrets, even though her strength had weakened. Sollel had to be very careful now; after that blessing, her current strength was not enough to summon a firewall to protect her from sudden attacks anymore.

Sighing, Sollel whisked her hand, and flames erupted on the ground, blocking the scorpion that was about to attack. She then sent a fireball to finish it. Looking around, after that explosion that shook the ground, Sollel realized that the scorpions started avoiding her, as they were afraid of her flame, and attacked the others instead. There were even scorpions on Hakken, Xeke, and Cira’s side, and the three were fighting head-on and all out.

Sollel clicked her tongue because of how calculative these scorpions were. As if I would let you escape my flame! she thought. Sollel ran toward Hakken’s group, while Zassia and Grath ran to safety after seeing an opening. As they did, Zassia shot fireballs after fireballs at the lizards and scorpions surrounding Hakken, Xeke, and Cira.

“There’s no end to this!” Hakken cussed as he slashed a lizard with his war blades and evaded the tail of the scorpion. “Xeke!”

“I got it!” Xeke, who had been looking for the lizards’ weak spot, finally found what he was looking for. “The end of their tail!”

Hearing that, Cira stopped assisting Hakken and used her agility to sprint and jump, and in midair, she released three arrows, simultaneously hitting the end of three lizards’ tail without missing an inch. Her aim was indeed perfect as she shot another arrow, but when her feet landed on the ground, she became vulnerable to the scorpions’ and lizards’ attacks. Cira was a fierce warrior in midair and high places, but not on the ground where she couldn’t move and shoot her arrows freely.

Xeke, seeing Cira at a disadvantage on the ground, willed his ten daggers to come back to him. Then by his control, his ten daggers floated around Cira, rapidly circulating around her, hitting all the beasts surrounding Cira. The daggers didn’t leave fatal wounds on the beasts, but the damage was enough for Cira to get back on her feet.

“Soar to the sky!” Xeke shouted at Cira while recalling one of his daggers to counterattack the lizard’s tail that was trying to smash him to the ground. “I’ll help you!”

Cira didn’t know how Xeke could help her soar to the sky when he was meters away from her, but her question was answered immediately after.

The daggers surrounding and protecting Cira moved to make a stair for her. The five daggers were floating flat in the air, waiting for Cira to climb it, while the four were floating around Cira.

“Go!” Xeke bellowed at Cira when he saw the tails of a lizard and a scorpion about to slam Cira.

Cira immediately stepped on the floating dagger, and as she jumped to the next, Xeke appeared behind her and used his five daggers to cut the tails that were about to pierce Cira’s back.

Cira continued ascending with the help of Xeke’s daggers, and in midair, she did what she does best—shooting her arrows precisely and lessening the lizards’ numbers. Cira didn’t need to worry about falling because every time the gravity started to pull her down, Xeke’s dagger was there to help her soar into the air again. It was like she had her own ground…in the air.

Cira wanted to kill some more beasts to take advantage of her aerial position, but when she reached for her quiver, she had already run out of arrows.

“Oh, for deities’ sake!” Cira cussed and was about to jump down when Xeke just appeared out of nowhere in the air, in front of Cira, and handed her a handful of her arrows that were scattered on the ground In a split second, he disappeared like he was never there.

Cira smiled at that after she realized how Xeke did it. Indeed. That’s an impressive ability he has.

Securing her arrows on her quiver, Cira returned to eliminating beasts with her bow and arrow.

Meanwhile, on the ground, Hakken was slammed by a lizard’s tail multiple times as he focused his attention on attacking the scorpion, which was deadlier that the lizard. He was surrounded, and he had no way out. His war blades were the only thing keeping him alive.

Hakken grunted when another lizard’s tail slammed on his body and sent him flying. He vomited blood at the impact. Even with a searing pain in his body, Hakken forced himself to get up, using his war blades to assist him. But just after he got up, a scorpion’s tail lunged toward his chest; before the tip pierced his skin, a ball of flame knocked it back and burned it alive.

Hakken immediately glanced at where the ball of flame came and saw his lady running toward him, her hands wrapped in flame.

“Hakken!”

The way his lady’s voice sounded, Hakken felt her need of something. “What do you need, my lady?!” he shouted to cover their distance.

“Sword!”

Hakken flipped one of his war blades to hold it in reverse, and then he ran to his lady to meet her in the middle, slashing, evading, and killing the beasts along the way. When the two were finally only a meter away, Hakken tossed his right blade to pass it to Sollel at the same time Sollel imbued Hakken’s left blade in his hand with her flame.

Together and back-to-back, Hakken wielded his flaming weapon while Sollel cut her palm with Hakken’s blade, letting her blood cover its sharp edge.

“Blood of flame, come forth and burn my foes.” Sollel swung Hakken’s blade at the same time her blood of flame erupted, engulfing Hakken’s sword in her hand with a scorching flame that only she could wield.

Sollel knew her blood of flame would not last, and it would melt Hakken’s sword afterward. Not wasting time, Sollel gripped the blade with her two hands, one holding the pommel of the blade and her dominant hand holding the handle, and then she raised the sword to her chest level and commanded her blood of flame to burn brightly and fiercely, consuming all her strength.

“I will make a path,” Sollel said to Hakken, who was still guarding her back with his. She could only do this because the beasts’ numbers had lessened, and they were finally near the edge of the battlefield. “After I unleashed my flame, my strength will be drained, and I’ll be useless, so clean up the beasts that my flames couldn’t reach and let’s get out of here.”

“By your will, my lady,” Hakken replied without hesitation.

That made Sollel smile before she became serious and swung her sword with all her might. “Blood of flame! Burn them all!”

Hakken’s eyes widened in awe when Sollel swung her sword, releasing her flame, and saw how it covered nearly a hundred yard long and a dozen yard width, devouring and burning any beasts that comes in contact with it.

The humungous flame that covered such a large area made everyone stop in their tracks to watch it devour everything in its path. Even the beasts became fearful and didn’t dare to move hastily. And in the midst of that, Hakken’s voice was heard.

“Let’s get out of here!”

Zassia and Grath ran toward the path the flame cleared, Xeke used half of his daggers to maneuver the distance and move himself stealthily, while Cira was running in the air with Xeke’s moving dagger as her surface.

While everyone was running to safety, Hakken grudgingly carried his unconscious lady over his shoulder. He wanted nothing more than to carry her in his arms securely, but it wouldn’t be feasible, knowing he had to fight the beasts that will block their way of escape.

With his lady draped on his shoulder, Hakken ran, his war blade on his dominant hand. The flames were still lingering, scaring the beasts away, but there were some fearless ones, blocking their path and attacking them.

Aside from Hakken fighting to clear the rest of the path, Grath, Xeke, and Zassia were all giving their best to clear the way while Cira was assisting them from midair.

The relief that everyone felt when they got out through the path Sollel made was so palpable, but no one stopped running. Everyone continued sprinting even when their breathing was all over the place. They continued running until they couldn’t hear the clicking sound of the lizards and the hissing sound of the scorpions.

Hakken glanced at Xeke. “Could you look for a place to rest? A safe one.” Hakken moved Sollel from his shoulder to his arms.

Xeke just nodded and threw his dagger upward. When his dagger multiplied in the air, he gave one to Cira so he could easily find them, and then he vanished into the thin air.

Cira went to stand in front of Hakken to check up on Queen Sollel. “What happened to her highness?” Cira didn’t believe that the queen would pass out for a small reason.

“I think the last flame she unleashed drained her,” Hakken answered.

“Her flame covered an insane large area.” Zassia was in awe with Sollel. “She’s so amazing. Most flame sorcerers and sorceresses would die if they tried to cover that kind of large area with their flame, but she just passed out.”

“Of course, she’s amazing,” Cira replied proudly ass he fixed Queen Sollel’s cloak and hood to cover her hair. She’s the Mistress of Flame, after all. The Queen of Flames of Yther!

The conversation halted when Xeke appeared out of nowhere the same time the dagger in Cira’s hand disappeared.

“I saw an empty cave two kilometers from here,” Xeke reported. “We can rest there.”

Hakken nodded. “Lead the way.”

Xeke nodded and led everyone to the cave. Upon reaching it, everyone dropped into the ground except for Cira who took out her cover and pillow from her satchel and placed it on the ground and Hakken who carefully laid his lady’s body on the cover Cira made.

“She’ll be fine, right?” Hakken asked Cira, not looking at El’s face because her hood was skewed. He didn’t want to see her face without her permission. He wanted to keep that trust between them.

Cira fixed Sollel’s cloak and hood to cover her hair. That was the most important thing—the reason Queen Sollel wore a cloak was because of her hair and eyes. “I will mix a medicine for her.”

Hakken nodded and went out of the cave to survey the surroundings to make sure that everything was safe. When he came back inside, Grath was resting, Zassia was sleeping, Cira was taking care of El, and Xeke was cleaning and sharpening his blade.

“I’ll keep watch. You can all rest,” Hakken announced and stepped outside again.

When night fell, Xeke stepped out from the cave to switch places with Hakken. Everyone needed rest, especially in this harsh environment.

When Hakken entered the cave, he sat beside Sollel and asked Cira, “How is she doing?”

“A little better,” Cira answered, lessening Hakken’s worry. “She woke up a little earlier and took some medicine I made. She’ll be okay by tomorrow.”

Hakken sighed in relief. “That’s good. You should rest. I’ll look after her.”

Cira glared at Hakken. “Don’t you dare seduce her.”

Hakken looked at Cira blankly. “She’s asleep. How could I possibly do that?”

Cira shrugged and threatened Hakken, “If you touch even a single hair, I will shoot you with my arrows.”

Hakken shook his head and just leaned on the cave’s wall, while Cira narrowed her eyes on Hakken before leaving the cave to talk to Xeke.

“Thanks for the support earlier,” Cira told Xeke as she sat beside him on the ground. “I would’ve been injured if not for you.”

“No problem.” Xeke was flipping his dagger around his fingers; he was used to doing it, and it had become a habit. “I travel a lot, but that was the first for me.”

Cira looked at the horizon of the barren land in front of them. “You could’ve escaped if you wanted. I mean, that’s your ability, right?”

Xeke chuckled and glanced at Cira. “If I did, then I wouldn’t have seen you fight so spectacularly.”

Cira snorted. “What’s so spectacular about that?”

Xeke stared at Cira. “I know elven warriors are fierce, but you’re the fiercest one I’ve seen.”

“I’m not an elven warrior,” Cira denied what Xeke said.

Xeke chuckled amusedly at Cira’s denial. “I told you, I traveled far and wide. I know an elven warrior when I see one.”

Cira looked down. “I’m not…not anymore.”

“You were kicked out?”

Cira nodded. “I broke the rules.”

Xeke sighed. “I heard that elves have some strict rules, but I never knew someone could be kicked out because of it.”

“I broke into a tabooed place.” Cira smiled and looked up at the sky. “I don’t regret it though. I met the person I wanted to meet for so long. I’m blessed.” Few seconds later, Cira got up. “See you tomorrow. I need to rest.”

Xeke nodded and let Cira leave.

Alone outside the cave, Xeke took a deep breath and laid his back on the ground to look at the dark night sky. Remembering the event that happened earlier, Xeke sighed and closed his eyes.

“Warlord, my friend, just what the hell are you planning to do?”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 20

CHAPTER 20

WHEN MORNING came, everyone made a full recovery of their strength, and they traversed the hellish barren land again. This time, they sent Xeke ahead of them to scout their route to avoid what happened yesterday. Xeke was fast that they covered forty kilometers in a day without running into trouble. Their walking pace was normal, and their only enemy was the scorching heat of the barren land.

Xeke was their scout, Hakken and Sollel were on the front, Cira and Zassia were in the center, trying to keep up, while Grath was in the rear, protecting their backs.

“Just how long are we going to walk before we reach Castetava?!” Cira complained while resting at night and massaging her own feet. “Elves love walking, but not the whole day!”

“In my estimation, we’ll reach Castetava in three days,” said Xeke who was playing with his dagger.

Zassia nodded. “This was a forest before, and according to history, this was the largest and widest forest in Azitera. It covers hundreds of kilometers.”

“Great!” Cira clicked her tongue. “Another three days of walking.”

Sollel sat beside Cira and gave her water. “Drink and stop talking. It’ll dehydrate you.”

Cira pouted but accepted the water nonetheless and became quiet. That didn’t go unnoticed to Xeke. He realized, after traveling in this hellish barren land, that there was only one person Cira listened to, and that’s El, the flame sorceress. Cira treated her with respect and sometimes reverence. She also called El Her Highness sometimes. Xeke was really curious who this El was.

“Where’s Grath, by the way?” Sollel asked when she roamed her eyes around and didn’t see the demi-human black wolf.

“Resting,” Hakken answered as he sat beside Sollel. “He said he’s not feeling well.”

Zassia felt worried. “He was burning up when he carried me on his back earlier. He said he’s okay. I thought it’s just because of the heat.”

Cira got up. “I’ll go check up on him.” Cira had a medicine that worked well with halflings and demi-humans. She was, after all, a renowned healer in Beastrela.

“I’ll go in case she needs something,” Xeke said and followed Cira.

Only Sollel, Hakken, and Zassia remained close to the small campfire they made.

Hakken scooted closer to Sollel. While Sollel noticed it, she just let him be. Even when Hakken subtly reached for her hand and played with her fingers, she just let him be as well. She could burn him alive for touching her without asking, that’s a given, but she just didn’t want to.

Then Sollel’s eyes fell on Zassia. She was praying to Queen Sollel again, so earnestly, while holding her staff close to her heart.

“How was it, Lady Zassia?” Sollel could not help asking, and when Zassia heard her name, her eyes snapped at the woman wearing a dark red cloak. “Your prayer has been answered. Queen Sollel gave you her blessing. Why still pray?”

Zassia’s expression softened. “I will not stop praying to her just because she answered my prayer and gave me what I wanted. I have been praying to her since I was a child. Even when there was no answer, even when some people belittled my belief, I continued praying. And now that my queen finally answered me, I’ll pray even harder to show my gratitude and reverence.”

Sollel took a deep breath, a small smile playing on her lips. “Queen Sollel will surely appreciate to have such a devoted follower.”

Zassia smiled shyly and spoke regrettably. “I’m still weak though, even after my queen blessed me. I lack knowledge and experience. I’m afraid that I will just waste the blessing my queen has given me.”

Sollel sighed inwardly and offered something she never thought she would after what these humans did to her. “I can teach you.”

Zassia’s eyes widened in shock. “T-truly?” She saw how amazing El was when it came to controlling her flame. “You will really teach me?”

Sollel nodded. “Only if you wanted to—”

“It would be an honor!” Zassia exclaimed and excitedly got up to sit in front of Sollel. “I will happily and gladly accept your teaching and knowledge, Master.”

Sollel leaned back hearing Zassia’s last word. “Could you not call me that? El would suffice.”

“No!” Zassia shook her head. “It would be disrespectful of me.”

Sollel sighed, regretting her decision a bit. “How about you just address me Lady El?”

Zassia blinked at Sollel before she grudgingly accepted it. “Okay, Master—I mean, Lady El. I will listen to you and respect your wishes.”

“Thank you.”

Zassia shook her head. “No. It’s thank you for accepting me as your student.” Then Zassia held up her hand and conjured a flame, and then she offered it to Sollel.

For a flame sorceress or a sorcerer, offering one’s flame to form a covenant with her or his master was rare because offering one’s flame was like giving one’s soul to her or his master. Nobody wanted to hand their flame to just anyone since it was connected to their souls, and they would be an open book to the person who held their flame. But if one wanted to show their respect and loyalty, it was the most admirable way.

Just like what Zassia was doing now—offering her flame to Sollel.

“From now on, I will be Lady El’s student, and she will be my master. I offer my flame to show my willingness to learn and to prove my loyalty.”

That stunned Sollel. She was not expecting Zassia to hand her her flame that was connected to her soul to show her willingness and loyalty.

She’s too trusting. She didn’t even know me. Sollel took a deep breath, raised her hand, and wrapped it in fire to accept Zassia’s flame. “I accept your fealty, Zassia.”

Zassia’s face lit up, and with a wide smile, she bowed her head at Sollel before standing and jumping heartily. She was that happy because she knew how powerful Lady El was. Now that Lady El was her teacher, she would definitely learn a lot, and then she would finally be able to save anyone she wanted.

“You should rest. I will start teaching you tomorrow,” Sollel said to Zassia.

Zassia nodded. Her face was still filled with happiness as she went to the other side of the boulder where they planned to rest.

When Zassia left the campfire, it was just Sollel and Hakken.

“I have a feeling that Cira would be jealous if she learned that you accepted a student,” Hakken commented while a playful smile was playing on his lips.

Sollel could actually feel that too. “Cira is different from Zassia. She’s my friend, while Zassia is my student.”

“How about me?” Hakken glanced at Sollel. “What am I to you, my lady?”

“You’re my hunter,” Sollel answered honestly. “I don’t trust you fully, but I always end up depending on you.”

“I am that untrustworthy?”

Sollel chuckled at that question. “After what I’ve been through, I don’t think I can ever trust someone easily again. One must move heaven and earth to earn my trust. It’s not because I have high standards. It’s just that…I don’t want to feel the pain of betrayal ever again. To care and love someone, only to be betrayed—that feeling is not something anyone could forget in their lifetime.”

Hearing the deep sadness and pain in Sollel’s voice, Hakken felt as if his chest were being pierced by a thousand arrows.

Sollel smiled when she remembered what Hakken told her before leaving Belrac. “You asked me if giving me the world was enough to get my affection. And that got me curious. Just how on Azitera are you going to give me the world, Hakken?”

A smile formed on Hakken’s lips at Sollel’s question. And as he opened his mouth to answer, he looked up to stare at the dark sky. “Easy, really. I will fight the whole world for you, and after I win, I’ll give it all to you.”

“Did you not consider that I might be capable of seizing the world by myself?” Sollel asked.

Hakken’s smile widened, still staring at the sky. “If that was so, then I will be your warlord, ready to fight the whole world for you.”

Sollel flicked the tip of Hakken’s nose. “That’s too big for mere flirtation, Hakken.”

Hakken chuckled and then sighed. “What would I not give to have your affection?”

Sollel flicked Hakken’s ear this time. “Stop being flirtatious for once. I worry about you sometimes. That’s affection.”

Hakken sulked at Sollel. “That’s different, my lady. Holding hands, hugging, and kissing—that’s the affection I want.”

“Sorry. I don’t feel like doing that with you.”

Hakken felt like the sky fell on him. “I get it. I’m going to sleep now.” Hakken got up and left the campfire with every part of his body feeling down.

Looking at Hakken’s sulking back, Sollel chuckled in amusement. “I already let him hold my hand…” What is he sulking for?

♕♕♕

XEKE WAS ALARMED when he saw Cira crying and sniffing after leaving to boil on the campfire. Contrary to Zassia who slept happily, Cira was crying as she went back to Grath’s side.

“What happened to you?” Xeke sounded concerned. “I thought you’re going to boil water on the campfire.”

Cira sniffed and tried to stop her tears. “Nothing happened. I realized I don’t need to boil some water after all.”

“And you cried after realizing that?” Xeke’s sarcasm was thick.

Cira just nodded and tried her best to control herself. She didn’t want to tell Xeke the reason for her tears because it might be miniscule to others, but it was a big deal for her.

Who wouldn’t cry?! Queen Sollel just called me her friend! She accidentally heard Hakken and Sollel’s conversation when she was about to boil some water. Her annoyance that Queen Sollel made that flame sorceress her student disappeared after hearing who she was to Queen Sollel.

Cira felt emotional.

Xeke frowned and sighed at Cira when her tears didn’t stop.

“Stop crying.” Xeke reached out to dry Cira’s tears. “You look horrible.”

Cira glared at Xeke. “Go away. I’m having a moment here.”

“You might need something—”

“I don’t. Now go away. These are tears of happiness.”

Xeke sighed and shook his head. “You are a weird elf.”

Cira stuck her tongue out at Xeke. “At least I’m pretty.”

That made Xeke smiled. “Yeah. Pretty.”

Cira clicked her tongue at Xeke. “Whatever. Now go away. I’m busy.”

Xeke had no choice but to go away and sit meters away from Cira, just watching the elf that caught his attention.

Feeling Xeke’s gaze, Cira didn’t mind him, and she focused on wrapping Grath’s body with her essence. Wrapping her essence and imbuing someone with her essence were two different things. Wrapping her essence on someone did not weaken her because she was just analyzing someone’s body with the assistance of her essence, while imbuing someone her essence to heal them—like what she did to Queen Sollel—was draining to Cira. That’s why she would seldom do it.

Closing her eyes, Cira controlled her essence to examine Grath’s body so she’d know which one to do. Cira immediately felt the heat on the surface, and as her essence delved deeper, she finally reached Grath’s core, but she immediately pulled back after sensing that familiar heat. I can’t be mistaken! I’ve felt that flame before! It can’t be…

Cira stared at Garth in shock before running back to the campfire to speak to Queen Sollel. Her mind was in a mess that she didn’t mind when she bumped into a sulking Hakken.

“Your Highness!” Cira grabbed Sollel’s hand and dragged her away where they couldn’t be heard by anyone.

“What is it, Cira?” Sollel asked after she let Cira drag her away from their campsite.

Cira caught her breath before talking. “Your Highness, I have a very important question.”

“Okay…”

Cira took a deep breath. “How do you bless someone? I mean, what’s the process? I know you blessed Zassia, but I didn’t see it, so I’m wondering.”

To be dragged away, Sollel knew that Cira’s query was not that simple. “I gave her a piece of my flame, weakening me a bit.”

“And the process?”

“My flame enters the body and carves itself into one’s soul, and if the soul doesn’t reject it, then he or she can wield a part of my flame,” Sollel answered. “And that flame will be passed down to his or her lineage, but it’ll be a little bit weaker because it’s not a direct blessing from me.” Sollel frowned. “Why are you asking me this?”

“Grath.” Cira exhaled. “Grath has your blessing.”

Sollel’s eyebrow furrowed even deeper. “What? But I didn’t…”

“I know. That’s why I’m confused!” Cira ransacked her brain how could that possibly happen. “But I couldn’t be wrong either. My essence is very familiar with your flame, Your Highness. I can’t be mistaken. The reason why Grath is burning up is because the flame, your blessing, is trying to engrave itself on his soul, and his soul is rejecting it because it doesn’t know. But what I don’t understand is why it is happening when you didn’t bless him with your flame. Is there another way that you could bless someone without you realizing it?”

Cira’s last question made Sollel’s head throb. She was confused earlier how Grath could possibly have her blessing, but Cira’s last question made her remember a ceremony that transpired in Yther every year—the naming of the infants.

Ytherian parents would visit a temple of their choosing, either the temple of flame, the temple of nature, the temple of the wind, or the temple of the high seas for their infants to receive their blessing through names. And the child named by the queen would be blessed by the same power that the queen possessed. Example, if Queen Aenwyn named an infant, that infant, in due time, would be able to control water.

Sollel massaged her forehead. “I didn’t know. I’ve forgotten about it. And I thought it only works on Ytherian’s infants.”

Cira frowned at Sollel. “What are you talking about, Your Highness?”

Sollel sighed. “I might’ve blessed Grath without me realizing.”

“When?”

“When I shortened his name and gave him the name Grath.”

Cira’s lips parted, and in an instant, she demanded, “Give me a nickname too, Your Highness. I want to be blessed too! I don’t mind changing names!”

Sollel chuckled a little and flicked Cira’s forehead. “You’re amazing just the way you are, Cira.”

Cira pouted. “This is so unfair…”

Sollel shook her head at Cira’s antics. “If I blessed you with my flame, yes, you’ll be able to wield fire, but you’ll lose your own essence. You will lose your power to analyze living and nonliving things. Your eyes will no longer be special. Who would analyze the moonrite stone?”

Cira’s shoulder fell. “It’s still unfair.”

“I could bless you bow though.”

Cira’s immediately became happy and her whole face lightened up. “Yes, please!”

Sollel chuckled at Cira’s sudden change of emotion. “Come on. Let’s go back. I’ll bless your bow when everyone is already asleep.”

“Yes!” Cira jumped up and down, and she and Sollel returned to their campsite.

While Sollel was massaging her temple at what she had done with Grath without the latter’s consent, she vowed to herself that she would not carelessly name someone again, even if it was just a nickname. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 21

CHAPTER 21

MORNING CAME and Grath was still burning with fever. Knowing that they couldn’t survive in this hellish barren land by staying where they were and waiting for Grath to get better, Xeke gathered old logs from all over the barren land. Hakken used these to make a makeshift bed where they could carry Grath. Leaving him behind was not an option.

While Xeke scouted the best route to take, Hakken, Sollel, Zassia, and Cira were holding the makeshift log bed on each corner, carrying Grath. They were slower than yesterday, but they still managed to cover a few kilometers before nightfall.

At night, Cira tried her best to bring down Grath’s fever with her medicine, but nothing was working. Another night passed with Grath still burning up. When morning came, they carried Grath again in the makeshift log bed until nightfall. Cira and Zassia was exhausted, but they didn’t complain. Grath had carried them as well when they were tired from walking; they were just giving back the favor.

Resting at night, Sollel stared at Grath. He was almost immobile; if she couldn’t see the movement of his chest, she would think Grath was no longer with them.

Sollel sighed. His soul is not accepting my blessing because it didn’t give consent. That’s why Grath was having a fever—his soul was fighting off her essence. There were only two outcomes in all this: either her essence wins, or Grath wins but his soul will end up being damaged. Between the two, the former was safer.

I’m sorry, Grath. Sollel sat beside Grath and rested her hand on his chest.

“Your Highness.” Cira sat beside Sollel, watching the queen’s hand on Grath. “What are you doing?”

“I’m going to force my essence on him.”

Cira’s lips parted. “But that will damage his body.”

“Damaging his body is far better than damaging his soul,” said Sollel with decisiveness. “The body could be repaired, the soul couldn’t be. And we must pick up our pace tomorrow. We have to get out of this barren land. We’re running out of food and water.”

Cira took a deep breath. “Very well. I will ready some medicine.”

Sollel nodded and started feeling her essence inside Grath. As she delved deeper into Grath’s very core, his soul…she felt how it was struggling against her flame. It was losing. I’m sorry, Grath. Sollel then clenched her hand that was resting on Grath’s chest, and her essence in Grath’s body immediately expanded and devoured Grath’s soul with her aid.

Grath’s soul struggled. Using its body’s strength to overcome her essence, he was coughing blood, and his body was convulsing. But it was fruitless. Sollel’s essence inside Grath devoured his soul wholly.

“What’s happening to him?” Xeke asked as everyone crowded around Grath.

Cira immediately placed her hand over Sollel’s. “We’re healing Grath, and his body is responding,” she lied. “El is trying to absorb Grath’s fever, while I spread my essence to heal him.”

No one asked and just watched. Zassia was so amazed with her teacher’s ability to absorb body heat, Xeke was frowning, trying to understand what the two were doing, and Hakken was just silently watching Sollel’s hand on Grath.

After a few minutes, Grath’s body stopped thrashing, and his face finally looked at peace as Sollel withdrew her hand. That’s when Cira truly came in and imbued Grath’s body with her essence to hasten his recovery. It would weaken Cira, but there was nothing she couldn’t manage.

Cira healed Grath with her essence for a couple of hours. Grath’s body was nearly torn from the inside because of Sollel’s destructive essence; that’s why it took Cira that long to fix Grath’s body, taking a lot of her essence as well.

Meanwhile, Xeke was just sitting beside Cira, watching her heal Grath. Hakken was still sulking in the corner alone, while Sollel and Zassia were sitting on the ground, near the campfire.

“Teacher, how did you do it? I didn’t know flame sorcerers could absorb body heat as well to heal someone!” Zassia looked and sounded so eager to learn. “You’re so amazing!” A twinkle of reverence could be seen in Zassia’s eyes as she stared at Sollel.

“I will teach it to you in due time,” Sollel answered calmly, opposite to Zassia’s excited tone. “For now, I will teach you the first thing you need to learn.”

Zassia moved her body so she was facing Sollel. She was listening intently to her teacher’s first lesson.

“First,” Sollel said, looking at Zassia. “Don’t be too trusting.”

Zassia’s excited face slowly disappeared. “Teacher…”

“Don’t trust so easily, Zassia.” Sollel raised her hand and tapped Zassia’s head. “You’re still young and have no experience how people and the world really work. I don’t want you to get hurt since you’re a good child. Be vigilant and don’t give your trust so easily. Anyone can betray you, and it would be too late to regret.”

Zassia just blinked at Sollel while listening.

“A second lesson from me,” Sollel continued. “Do not go around prancing your belief on Queen Sollel. I don’t want to see you get hurt because of it. You can pray to her in silence. I’m sure she will still appreciate it…as long as you’re sincere.”

Zassia nodded.

“And third,” Sollel said as she pulled her hand back, “don’t betray the people who love you and care for you. You do not return love with pain. You do not return care with sorrow. And you do not return trust with betrayal. Adhere to all of this, and I will teach you everything I know. Keep these three close to your heart, and I’m sure Queen Sollel will be very happy with you.”

Zassia nodded earnestly. “I will, teacher.”

Sollel smiled. “Very well. Your fourth lesson will start tomorrow morning.”

Zassia eagerly nodded and happily went to sleep while keeping her first three lessons close to her heart.

Alone, Sollel stared at the vast darkness in front of her. This barren land they were trying to cross was Gatria’s resentment. Sollel couldn’t help worrying if Gatria was in good condition.

Sollel touched the dead soil and whispered, “I’m coming to free you, Gatria. Wait for me.”

Taking a deep breath, Sollel looked up at the sky. I wonder how everyone is doing. Aenwyn…Astrid…I will come and get you too.

And I will burn anyone who will get in my way!

♕♕♕

MORNING CAME and Grath finally recovered. Unfortunately, Cira was the one unconscious this time. She expended so much essence; of course, she would be out cold. Cira thought she could manage healing Grath—well, that was a miscalculation on her part.

So Grath carried Cira on his back as they traversed the hellish barren land again.

On the other hand, Zassia received her fourth lesson, and that was to drop her flame on the ground to follow her. It’s a way to control one’s flame, and there’s no better place to practice it than in a barren land where nothing would be burned.

Zassia was doing it poorly, and she wanted to cry. But every time she wanted to give up, she would remember Queen Sollel’s blessing and how much she didn’t want to waste it. So she continued dropping her flame every time it was extinguished. She could only control her flame to follow her for a meter, and it would die down again. She had to drop another flame when this would happen, exhausting her so much, but she kept going on because she knew her teacher was observing her. She didn’t want to disappoint her too.

After walking for a few kilometers, the group finally saw Castetava on the horizon.

“Yes…” Zassia dropped on her knees, crying in happiness. “Finally…”

At that same moment, Cira woke up, and she jumped down from Grath’s back as if she just didn’t expend her essence. “Yey! Bed! Food! Cira is coming!” After shouting gleefully, Cira excitedly ran toward Castetava, leaving them behind.

Sollel shook her head. “She’s too wild when excited.”

Hakken was beside Sollel, and he used to share little conversations with her, but Hakken had been silent beside her since yesterday. Sollel was amused than annoyed because she knew the reason Hakken had been silent.

Sollel stepped closer to Hakken to ask him in a low voice. “Still sulking?”

Hakken didn’t answer, making Sollel smile. She didn’t know why she enjoyed seeing Hakken like this—silent and sulking. She enjoyed seeing how his expression changed because of her.

“You’ve been sulking for two days now.” Sollel kept up with Hakken’s face and poked Hakken’s left cheek. “Stop sulking already, Hakken. We’re about to reach Castetava.”

But Hakken remained silent, not minding Sollel poking his cheek. And even how much Sollel urged Hakken to stop sulking, Hakken didn’t give her any attention, amusing Sollel even more.

After Sollel had enough poking Hakken’s cheek, she glanced at Zassia to check up on her. Sollel smiled when Zassia was still doing her best to control her flame even though she failed a hundred of times already. Grath kept glancing at her like he wanted to ask something but always deciding not to.

Sollel wanted to talk to Grath too, but she wanted to cross this barren land first.

After an hour of walking, Sollel frowned when she saw Cira’s back. Sollel thought that Cira would be in Castetava by now since she left them behind earlier, but it looked like she was mistaken. Cira was crouching down beside a riverbank, and she looked like she was sulking while drawing something on the ground with a stick.

And when Cira saw Sollel, she immediately ran to Sollel to complain. “Your Highness! We have a problem!”

Hakken immediately understood Cira’s complain. “This river…”

“Yes! That damn river!” Cira pointed her finger at the river in front of them as she sat on the ground, sulking. “I thought barren lands don’t have rivers, but nope. This barren land has one, and it’s wide at that. I want to sleep on a soft bed and eat some good food fast, so I decided to swim this damn river. But when my foot touched the water, a four-meter-long beast with a wide mouth and sharp teeth suddenly appeared, nearly biting my feet off! Good thing I was quick.” Cira’s eyes were filled with tears. “Your Highness! My food! My bed! And that damn Xeke just left me behind! I mean, he left one of his daggers, but he still left me behind!”

“How long has it been since Xeke left?” Hakken asked.

“Present.” Xeke just appeared out of thin air.

Cira glared at Xeke. “How dare you leave a woman like me all alone! What if something bad happened to me?”

Xeke looked at Cira like that was not going to happen. “I don’t think you’re the kind of woman who needs protection.”

Cira rolled her eyes but still smiled proudly. “Of course!”

“That’s why I left.” Xeke smiled before turning to face the other side of the river. “There are alligarean beasts in the river and demon foxes in the other side. I already took care of the demon foxes, but the alligarean beasts…” Xeke stared at the water. “They’re very poisonous, and they spit out a liquid that could melt anyone’s skin in a matter of seconds.” Then Xeke turned to Hakken. “Any idea how to pass this river?”

“I’m thinking…” Hakken answered.

“Can we go around it?” Grath asked.

Xeke shook his head. “It’ll take a week to go around it.”

“We can make a raft and then just fight those beasts if they came at us,” Zassia suggested. “Looks like we don’t have a choice anyway.”

“I’ll go look for useable logs,” said Grath and immediately went looking.

Cira suddenly got up when she got an idea and faced Xeke excitedly. “Use your daggers to send us to the other side.”

“My daggers have weight limits,” Xeke explained. “I can only use it on you because you’re tiny.”

Cira’s excited expression vanished, and her pointy ears actually moved a little when she heard how Xeke described her. “Take it back! I’m not tiny! I’m tall and slim! Not tiny!”

Sollel handed the water canister to Cira. “Drink and stop shouting, Cira. You’ll be dehydrated.”

Cira accepted the water canister while glaring at Xeke. Xeke just smiled at the adorable elf glaring at him.

“I can transport myself and Cira with my daggers to the other side,” said Xeke, “but you four had to think of something to cross the river.”

“Let’s do what Lady Zassia suggested,” said Hakken when he saw Grath coming back with useable logs. “But instead of making logs, let’s just throw them in the river since we don’t have other materials to make one and use them to cross the river fast. Grath, you’re strong and agile—you carry Zassia. Grath’s task is to cross the river using the logs, while Lady Zassia’s task is to counterattack and defend in case the alligarean makes a move to attack.”

Grath and Zassia nodded.

Then Hakken faced Sollel. “My lady, I will carry you. You will be responsible for attacking and defending.”

Sollel nodded while smiling a little because Hakken finally spoke to her. “Okay.”

“I’ll start,” Xeke said before throwing his dagger upward. The moment the daggers multiplied and flew down to the ground on the other side of the river, Xeke vanished and appeared on the other side in just a second. “Lady Cira, your turn,” said Xeke before controlling his daggers to float in the air, making a staircase for Cira.

With Cira’s agile body and with the help of Xeke’s daggers, she was able to cross the river effortlessly.

The next pair to cross were Grath and Zassia. Zassia was on Grath’s back, her staff ready to attack.

“Ready?” Hakken asked the two. Grath and Zassia nodded.

Hakken counted one to three before throwing the logs on the rivers.

The river flow was not fast. Grath easily managed to jump to the nearest log. Grath jumped and balanced himself with ease even though he was carrying Zassia on his back. Jumping to the third log, Grath and Zassia were already in the middle of the river when their movement on the surface caught the attention of the beasts down below.

As Grath jumped to the fourth log, out of nowhere, an alligarean’s wide open mouth came from the water, ready to bite the two. Zassia’s fireballs rapidly shot at the alligarean, hitting its mouth and eyes, distracting the beasts. Zassia’s hands were shaking in fear, but she held on to her staff tightly.

And when the beast recovered its bearing, before it could try to bite Grath and Zassia again, it was hit by Sollel’s ball of flame and Cira’s arrow.

“Hurry!” Hakken hissed when he saw other two alligarean surfacing.

Grath held Zassia’s knees tightly while Zassia conjured and shot fireballs after fireballs at the alligareans as they moved, making the beasts angrier.

A relieved sigh came out from everyone when Grath and Zassia safely landed on the other side of the riverbank.

Zassia’s legs were shaking as she got off from Grath’s back. “That was crazy. I don’t want to do it again…”

Grath smiled. “We’re safe now, Lady Zassia.”

Zassia nodded and looked at the other side of the river where Hakken and Sollel were.

“You can do it, Your Highness!” Cira said while jumping up and down and clapping her hands. “You can do it! Burn them! Yey!”

Zassia gripped her staff tightly and conjured three fireballs. “I will help too.”

Grath couldn’t do anything but pray for the queen’s safety, while Xeke’s hand readied his dagger just in case the two needed a hand.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the river, Hakken asked Sollel. “Ready?”

Sollel nodded and went to stand in front of Hakken. “Carry me on your shoulder. I have to see the whole area to defend us both.”

Hakken nodded and was about to move to throw the logs in the river when Sollel stopped him.

“Hakken.”

“Yes, my lady?”

“Stop sulking already.”

Hakken smiled. “Yes, my lady. Did I worry you?”

“A little.”

Hakken’s smile widened. “That makes me so darn happy.” Hakken then bent down to pick up the logs and threw it on the river before facing Sollel. “Ready?”

Sollel nodded.

“Perfect.” Hakken leaned down a little to wrap his arms around Sollel’s body and carry her on his shoulder. “Hold on tight.”

Sollel quickly wrapped her arms around Hakken’s neck as Hakken jumped to the log on the river.

“My lady, you are welcome to choke me anytime but not at the moment,” Hakken said when he felt Sollel’s hold on his neck tightening as he jumped from one log to another.

“Impudent.” Sollel clicked her tongue and released a ball of flame to the nearest alligarean that was about to attack them.

The impact and the blast of her ball of flame was enough to knock back any beast, giving them time to safely traverse the river.

Sollel released a sigh of relief when she saw that they were near the riverbank on the other side of the river. But just when Sollel let down her guard, a bubble formed in the river. Hakken was in the middle of jumping to the nearest log when, suddenly, a humongous alligarean jumped out of the water, just inches under Hakken in midair, its mouth wide open and ready to devour the two. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 22

CHAPTER 22

HAKKEN HURRIEDLY drew his war blade when he saw the beast’s mouth about to devour his lower body and tightened his hold on his lady, but before he could swing his blade, Xeke’s dagger appeared below him. And in a matter of seconds, the dagger disappeared and was replaced by Xeke, whose leg kicked the alligarean’s jaw, knocking it back. Then a series of fireballs came from Zassia, hitting the alligarean ferociously, followed by Cira’s arrow hitting the its eyes. It was finished by Sollel’s ball of flame.

Hakken safely landed on the log, and then he jumped again to land on the other side of the river.

“Thank you for not dropping me,” said Sollel as her feet touched the ground, her arm still wrapped around Hakken’s neck.

“What would I drop my lady?” Hakken asked with a charming smile.

Sollel chuckled a little. “Well, you’d been sulking.”

“I was just scolding myself, ’s all.”

Sollel unwrapped her arm around Hakken’s neck. “Scolding yourself?”

Hakken nodded but didn’t elaborate and silently let Sollel go. Then he went to the front to guide everyone to Castetava while Sollel stared at Hakken’s back.

When Sollel learned that Hakken was not human, she let her guard down a little when she’s around Hakken. She even let him touch her hand. She wouldn’t deny that she had become dependent on him. He was an amazing warrior, and his strength never disappoints, but she shouldn’t let her relationship with Hakken deepen. She had a mission to do; she couldn’t afford distractions.

Sollel nodded to herself before following Hakken and the others.

From the river, it didn’t take long for everyone to arrive at Castetava. From the outside, everyone could see that it was a destitute town. The walls around the town and their gate, unlike in Belrac, had already crumbled and could not be used to defend the town.

Castetava looked old and run-down except for the houses on the hill. The houses there were big and exquisite, eye-catching even from afar. Compared to the houses down below, the houses on the hill were striking and hard to miss. It was as if the houses on the hill were a part of a different town, but it was indeed a part of Castetava.

“It’s called the noble’s hill,” Zassia, who knew a lot of Azitera, explained to everyone who had a confused look on their faces. “Only nobles get to live there and have an abundant life. They have their own farms and livestock.”

Everyone’s face hardened seeing the estate of the town. More than half of the houses were run-down. Children were crying, asking for food; adults and children alike were malnourished. There were no demi-humans nor halflings around, only humans—thin and pale-looking humans.

“Why are they still here if there were no lands to farm? How are they still alive?” Zassia asked, worried and wondering.

“They have no choice,” Hakken answered. “The neighboring town, Sarnau, is not in a good estate either, and the forest that the people of Castetava depended on has been swallowed and became a barren land. For normal humans, crossing the barren land to get to Belrac means death, so they stayed here, waiting for the nobles on the hill to sell their excess food.”

“How do they make a living?” Grath asked.

“There are still some lands here that wasn’t devoured by the dead soil,” Zassia informed everyone. “Nobody really knows why some lands are still okay for farming, but there are some left. But as far as I know, those lands are controlled by landlords, and they were all working for the nobles on the hill.”

Sollel’s eyes narrowed. Impossible! No land could escape Gatria’s resentment.

Cira looked around. “Are there inns here? I’m hungry.”

“I believe there is,” Hakken answered. “It’s on the other side of the town. Let’s go there.”

Everyone followed Hakken while looking around. And as they advanced toward the other side of the town, the houses started becoming decent and sturdy. They saw stalls of fruits, meat, and vegetables.

Seeing a fruit stall, Cira immediately ran to buy some pears to calm her hungry stomach. “Six pieces of pears, please.”

The owner of the stall was all smiles as she answered Cira, “Six gold coins.”

Cira’s eyes widened. “What? One gold for one pear? That’s too much! I can buy two dozen pears in Belrac for one gold coin!”

The woman behind the stall immediately lost her smile. “Go away if you’re not buying. You’re wasting my time and energy!”

Cira was about to snap back at the rude woman when an old man passing by, carrying a small piece of bread, who heard the whole conversation stopped to speak to the Cira. “Miss, this is not Belrac. This is Castetava. The food here is scarce, so it’s sold at a high price. You’re not a local, aren’t you?”

Cira faced the old man after controlling herself not to snap at the woman behind the fruit stall. “We’re travelers. We’re just passing by,” Cira told the old man.

“Has the price for food always been that high?” Xeke asked. “I passed Castetava before, but I didn’t stop to eat.”

The old man nodded. “Yes, young man. These fruits are actually from the noble’s hill farms. They sell it to fruit stall owners for a high price. No one could grow such fruits here in Castetava anymore. We already lost most of our lands to the dead soil, and the remaining ones are all controlled by the landlords.”

“If your land was devoured by the dead soil, then”—Xeke pointed her finger at the noble’s hill—“why is it not happening to them? That hill is part of Castetava too, right?”

The old man sighed and shook his head. “Outsiders like you would never understand.” The old man started walking again. If you do not want to spend a lot of money, you should leave immediately.“

Everyone looked at the old man’s retreating back, while Cira was forced to buy one piece of pear to quench her hunger. She didn’t bother buying a pear for everyone since they didn’t seem interested.

“Something is going on in this town,” Grath muttered under his breath.

“We’re just passing by,” said Sollel in a cold voice. “It’s not our problem.”

What Sollel said made Hakken stilled. Then he looked at Sollel over his shoulder, his gaze sharp and penetrating, that it got Sollel’s attention.

“What is it?” Sollel asked Hakken.

“Do you really mean that, my lady?” Hakken asked coldly. Sollel was not used to that tone. “I would bet my life that if the one suffering now are the demi-humans and halflings, you would risk your life to save theirs—”

“Of course. Humans had been terrorizing them,” Sollel answered Hakken, cutting him off. “What’s wrong with that? I don’t care about humans. They can die for all I care.” Sollel passed Hakken and called Cira, Zassia, and Grath. “Come on, let’s look for a tavern.”

Hakken clenched his fist at Sollel’s nonchalance about human life. “Not all humans are bad, my lady. Same as not all demi-humans and halflings are good. Just give them a chance.”

Sollel stopped on her tracks, her face darkening. Give them a chance? Hah! When it came to humans, Sollel could only tolerate so little. “Hakken, we’re paying you to accompany us to Ager, not to give your unsolicited opinion about humans and other races. If you liked humans, I have no problem with that, but you have no right to dictate what I should feel about them. I hate them and they could all burn in hell for all I care.” Then Sollel left with Cira, Zassia, and Grath, leaving Hakken and Xeke behind.

Xeke exhaled a long breath. “That was intense. Her anger toward humans…it’s too deep.”

Hakken didn’t say anything and just followed Sollel.

“Hey, wait!” Xeke grabbed Hakken’s shoulder to stop him. “After what she just said, you’re still going to accompany her?”

“It’s my job,” Hakken answered with a straight face, no emotion whatsoever.

Xeke sighed. “And once you reached Ager, do you have the strength to let her go?”

Hakken didn’t answer Xeke and just pulled his arm away from Xeke’s hold and followed Sollel. Xeke, seeing Hakken’s face, thought, Nope. He didn’t have the strength. His face says it clearly.

Sighing deeply, Xeke followed Hakken.

♕♕♕

HAKKEN AND SOLLEL DIDN’T SPEAK the whole time they were eating; it was affecting the others who couldn’t speak freely because of the tension surrounding them. Well, except for Cira who was eating heartily, not minding the two.

After their meal, the group went to their separate ways to explore the town. Cira went to rent an inn so she could start analyzing the moonrite stone, and Xeke rented the room beside her. Grath was tasked by Cira to look for suitable food for their travel to Sarnau, while Zassia shopped for clothes. Sollel, on the other hand, went to rent a different inn to not get affected by the moonrite stone, and Hakken followed behind her.

“Two rooms, please.”

“Sorry, miss, but we only have one room left,” said the receptionist in front of Sollel while glancing at Hakken behind her.

“Don’t bother then.” Sollel started to leave. “We will look for another inn.”

“Castetava only has two inns, miss,” the receptionist informed Sollel. “The other one is two blocks away from here.”

That made Sollel stop on her tracks and turned to face the receptionist again. “We’ll get the room.”

The receptionist glanced at Hakken and smiled maliciously at Sollel. “Ten gold coins for one night.”

Sollel placed ten gold coins on the counter. Good thing Cira gave her a pouch with gold coins, knowing how expensive things and services were in Castetava.

The receptionist smiled as she picked up the gold coins and handed the key to the room. “Enjoy your stay.”

Sollel accepted the key, and not liking the woman’s suggestive smile, she said, “We’re husband and wife.”

Sollel felt satisfied seeing how her statement wiped off the malicious smile on the receptionist’s face. And she did not feel an ounce of awkwardness even though Hakken heard that. He had been using that lie…why couldn’t she?

♕♕♕

ON THE MARKET, Grath was earning scrutinizing stares from the humans, but when the humans saw him wearing a slave collar, they immediately discarded their gazes. Unconsciously, Grath touched his slave collar. It was a good idea to keep wearing it even though I can easily take it off. I don’t want to inconvenience the queen.

Until that very moment, Grath still didn’t know which race the queen belonged to. It couldn’t be humans since she hated them to the core. Not a demi-human either since no demi-human could wield elements; they’re known for their sharp claws and brute strength. Not a beastman either since a beastman becomes a beast at night and a human at day. The queen couldn’t be a halfling either since Lady Cira, a full-blooded elf, was serving her.

Could she be an elf? No. She couldn’t be. Elves were known for their gentle nature, vast knowledge, agility, and healing abilities. The queen was smart indeed, but she was not gentle at all. Though saying elves were known for their gentle nature, Grath couldn’t help asking himself what happened to Lady Cira.

Shaking his head, Grath arrived at the conclusion of his thoughts about the queen. She must be from the demon race. Demons resembled humans in a way, except for their horns and black-golden eyes, though most of them could only wield the power of darkness; in rare cases, some can wield an element. Maybe that’s why the queen wears a cloak and a hood to hide herself from the prying eyes.

Because same with demi-humans, halflings, and beastmen, humans hated demons even though the demons would seldom leave their territory to venture outside. Demons liked to keep to themselves; that’s why Grath couldn’t understand why the human kingdoms were waging war against the demons. The queen’s anger is understandable.

Nodding to himself, Grath continued buying provisions for their travel to Sarnau, putting all the food in the sack he was carrying.

“How much for one piece of dried meat?” Grath asked the man behind the stall.

The man behind the stall had a disdainful look at the demi-human, but when he saw the slave collar, his disdainful look vanished. “Two golds coins each.”

That’s too much! Grath wanted to complain about the price when he remembered what Lady Cira told her after giving her money: Don’t complain about the price; just pay them and secure the food.

“Okay. I’ll take twelve pieces of dried meat.”

The man immediately packed twelve pieces of dried meat. “That’s twenty-four gold coins.”

Grath nodded and pulled out the pouch Lady Cira gave him from his secured pocket. While he counted the gold coins, his ear picked up a commotion.

“Get out of the way! Get out! Or we will trample you!”

Grath didn’t heed it any attention and just paid the dried meat.

Receiving the meat and putting it in the sack, Grath went back looking for the food Lady Cira requested him to find.

“Get out of the way!”

Grath heard the same shout and didn’t mind it since he was walking on the side of the street. But what Grath didn’t realize was that the wagon pulled by four horses was big enough to occupy the whole street and the soldiers controlling the horses had no plan to stop for anyone. When it passed Grath, the side of the wagon hit the sack Grath was carrying, ripping it off. When Grath realized this, he immediately kicked the wagon off, causing it to swerve, and some of its important goods slipped out and broke.

Grath couldn’t care less about the wagon and its important goods. He was more concerned about their food that was scattered on the ground. I must secure all this. I can’t waste Lady Cira’s money!

Grath was about to pick up the food when a whip wrapped around Grath’s neck, too fast for him to hear and react.

“Do you know how important the contents of the vials that you broke?!” the soldier holding the whip sneered as he pulled it to suffocate the Grath. “You filthy demi-human! Even your life is not enough to pay for what you did! Die!”

Grath sneered and angrily gripped the whip around his neck and pulled to him. With Grath’s strength, the soldier holding the whip stumbled and was easily dragged toward Grath. And when the soldier fell into the ground, face first, Grath sharpened his claws and slashed the soldier.

Everyone who saw that gasped, not because nobody would dare lay their hands on the soldier but because the demi-human’s claw slash burned the soldier. No demi-human could wield an element, and that was a fact to everyone.

But now they just saw a demi-human attacked with flame.

Even Grath was shocked as he stepped back, his eyes wide.

My claw slash… he thought.

Instead of creating sharp pressure blades when released, Grath’s claw slash created five clawlike flames, wounding the soldier fatally like sharp blades would and burning the soldier alive…like a fiery flame would.

Grath looked at his hands in shock. What…just…happened?

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 23

CHAPTER 23

“ARE YOU mad?” Sollel asked Hakken as they entered the room Sollel rented. Sollel didn’t feel uncomfortable at all. She was already used to traveling with Hakken that sleeping on the same bed was not really big of a deal to her. “Is it maddening to you that I don’t care about humans?”

Hakken closed the door and stayed close to it. “Yes, my lady.”

Sollel smiled softly and sat on the edge of the bed. “If the humans you love and care so much betrayed you, caged you, used you, and took everything you hold dear away from you…would you still care for them? Would you still give them a chance?”

Hakken became silent.

Sollel sighed. “Hakken, I’m not stopping you from treasuring humans. It’s your right. You can love them as much as you want. I will respect that. That said, I expect the same respect when it comes to my hate toward humans. Do not tell me what to feel because you don’t know my pain.”

Hakken clenched his fist.

“To me, humans are my enemies,” Sollel added coldly. “And showing compassion to my enemies is cruelty to myself.”

Hakken closed his eyes, and when he opened them, it was void of emotion. “I’m sorry for asking you to give them a chance.”

Sollel nodded. “It’s okay as long as you understand. And I’m sorry too for lashing out on you. We’re still a long way to Ager. I want to travel in peace.”

Hakken finally took a step toward the bed and stopped in front of Sollel. “My lady?”

“Yes?”

“I want to sleep on the floor.”

Sollel couldn’t help chuckling at how serious Hakken sounded. “You don’t want to share the bed with me?”

Hakken looked away, hiding his flustered face. “I want to treat you right, my lady.”

Sollel actually expected that already, so she was not surprised. Surprisingly, as flirtatious as Hakken was, he never once crossed the line, always showing respect when needed. Maybe that’s why she was comfortable with him because she knew Hakken would never take advantage of her.

Or is it because I can burn him to crisp if he tries? Sollel chuckled at that thought and handed a pillow and a cover to Hakken. “Here. You should rest. I know you’re tired.”

“And you, my lady?”

Sollel shrugged and teased Hakken, “Maybe I’ll take a bath and then watch you sleep?” Seeing Hakken froze made Sollel laugh a little. “Hakken, for a flirtatious man, you are very prude.”

Hakken busied himself taking his blade off on his back and spreading the cover on the floor as he muttered under his breath, “I’m only like this to you, my lady.”

Sollel laughed a little and went inside the bathroom, leaving Hakken alone. And seeing his lady leave, Hakken let out a relieved breath as he lay on the floor, staring at the ceiling of the inn.

Enveloped with silence, Hakken remembered his lady’s words.

If the humans you love and care so much betrayed you, caged you, used you, and took everything you hold dear away from you…would you still care for them? Would you still give them a chance?

Hakken pressed his lips together when he remembered what his answer was earlier when his lady asked him that. If they took my lady away and hurt her…I would probably kill them all.

A wry smile appeared on Hakken’s lips. How hypocritical of me saying not all humans were bad and now thinking of annihilating them for a single person… Hakken wanted to laugh at himself. What idiocy am I spouting? What happened to my original goal?

Hakken looked at his war blade and sighed. His other war blade his lady borrowed when they were fighting those scorpions and lizards on the barren land melted in an instant after she imbued it with her flame, so now he only had one war blade. He planned to buy a replacement in Ager or Sarnau if he got a chance.

But her flame was too powerful that it melted my blade in an instant.

Hakken took a deep breath and closed his eyes before forcing himself to rest. Unfortunately, he was too tired that he immediately fell asleep. When he woke up, he saw his lady sleeping on the bed, her back on him. She had no cloak or hood on, her bloodred hair dazzling Hakken that he didn’t realize his hand reaching out to touch it.

Soft. It was Hakken’s first thought when his fingertips brushed against his lady’s bloodred hair. Then he slowly wrapped a strand of his lady’s hair around his forefinger before bringing the tip of her hair over his lips to kiss and feel it.

Hakken’s expression softened as he whispered to himself, “My lady…it’s been so long.”

Hakken immediately pulled his hands away when he felt his lady stir on the bed, and he returned to his makeshift bed on the floor, watching his lady wake up, stretch her body, and comb her long, wavy bloodred hair that reached her buttocks. And then his lady tied it into a bun before putting her cloak and hood on.

Seeing his lady with her cloak on, Hakken decided to stop pretending to be asleep. He was about to get up when an anxious knock echoed on the door, and they heard Zassia’s panicking voice.

“Teacher! Teacher! We have a problem!”

Sollel quickly opened the door while Hakken swiftly got up. Confusion filled Zassia’s face when she saw her teacher and Hakken in one room, but she didn’t ask nor pry because she had more important things to tell them.

“What is it?” Sollel asked Zassia.

Zassia took a deep breath and spoke with worry. “Grath…Grath is missing!”

Sollel’s eyes widened. “What?”

Zassia was breathing heavily. “We were supposed to meet at the inn where Lady Cira was staying, but he never showed. I already looked everywhere for him. I think the people in the market knew where he is since he visited the market to buy food for our travel to Sarnau, but they won’t tell me anything!”

Sollel’s expression darkened. “Bring me to the market.” If Grath did go there, she might be able to sense him since Grath was directly blessed by her. When one would accept Sollel’s direct blessing and it became part of their essence, that essence would act like a beacon to Sollel, though it only worked for someone she directly blessed, like Grath and Zassia.

Zassia, Sollel, and Hakken left the inn in a hurry and ran toward the market. It was already night; some stalls were already closed, and some were about to close. Before they reached the center of the Market, Sollel immediately felt the lingering essence of Grath.

It felt like a robust heat but still very familiar since the core came from her.

Sollel stopped beside a closed stall and looked around. Grath’s essence was stronger here than anywhere in the market. It means he might have used his powers here to fight someone. Sollel crouched down to touch the ground, and as she imbued the ground with her essence, it came across something familiar that Sollel immediately pulled back her essence.

I can’t be mistaken! It’s Gatria! Is she here? Sollel’s heart thundered as she looked at the ground where she felt Gatria’s essence. It was miniscule, but Sollel was sure of it. This was Gatria!

But the ground where she felt Gatria’s essence had been dug out, like something was taken from it. What is it?

“What are you doing? Are you one of those crazy guards too?”

Sollel stilled when she heard a voice of a boy. She turned to face him and saw a ten-year-old boy carrying a small piece of bread.

“What crazy guards?” Hakken asked, hoping they could get a useful information.

The boy took a bite at the piece of bread he was carrying. “The crazy guards who dug the soil there,” the boy said, pointing the ground where Sollel felt Gatria’s essence, “and took it with them to the noble’s hill.”

“Why did they do that?” Zassia asked.

The boy shrugged. “Beats me. A vial slipped out from the wagon because that crazy strong demi-human kicked it. The vial broke, and whatever was inside soaked the ground. The crazy guards dug the soil and took it with them—”

“What happened to the demi-human?” Sollel asked, not waiting for the boy’s full story. She could track Grath’s essence, but it might take time.

“They took the demi-human with them.”

“Where?”

The boy pointed the hill where nobles live. “There. I bet that demi-human is already dead by now. He killed one of the crazy soldiers.”

Sollel’s jaw tightened and walked hastily toward the hill, but Hakken blocked her path.

“I will not let you go up there without a plan, my lady!” Hakken raised his voice, hoping Sollel would listen.

“What plan? I don’t need it.” Sollel was boiling with rage. It was not only Grath they took but also Gatria. “I’ll just burn them all.”

Hakken didn’t waver and remained standing in front of Sollel, blocking her way. “We need a plan—”

“I don’t want to lose someone close to me again!” Sollel shouted at Hakken in rage and desperation as a tear fell from her eyes. “I…I already lost them all. I don’t want to…lose another one.”

Hakken gritted his teeth. “I know you’re strong, but facing an unknown number of enemies and soldiers, you’ll get hurt. Information is important if you want to win a war.”

“Stop fighting, you two.” Xeke’s appeared out of thin air. “We need to move.”

Cira appeared after Xeke; she was jumping from roof to roof. “Xeke and I already scouted the noble’s hill. They got three hundred soldiers, one hundred mercenaries, and ten sorcerers under the noble’s command.”

Xeke nodded. “The whole hill is heavily fortified. We can’t storm in easily to save Grath, but I think it’ll be okay. Quantity doesn’t matter. We have two flame sorceresses, an elf, me, and a hunter. I think we’ll be just fine. But after saving Grath, we can’t stick around. We need to leave immediately.”

“But our food…” Zassia interjected.

“Don’t worry,” Cira grinned and tapped her satchel. “Already taken care of.”

“Let’s go.” Time was of the essence, and Sollel didn’t want to lose even just a second of it. Grath…Gatria…

Sollel, Hakken, Zassia, Cira, and Xeke ran toward the noble’s hill. Sollel and Hakken was in front. Zassia and Cira were in the center, and Xeke was on the rear. The five climbed the hill, and except for Zassia who was breathing hard, everyone was still in a perfect condition after arriving at the top.

“Who are you?! Commoners are not allowed here!” the guard from the gate shouted in disdain seeing the five people in front of the gate of the noble’s hill. “Scram!”

“Zassia,” Sollel called Zassia’s name in a commanding voice.

Zassia nodded, immediately understanding her teacher’s tone. Zassia then raised her staff, the red stone glowed, and fireballs appeared behind her, waiting for her command.

“What do you think you’re doing?!” the guard screamed in anger, like he was looking down on them.

Zassia pressed her lips together and whispered, “Attack.” One single word and the three fireballs behind Zassia shot down the guards.

Zeke threw his dagger upward and appeared on top of the gate, his daggers floating in the air, aiding Cira to float and stay in the air while her bow and arrow glistened under the moonlight.

Xeke grimaced seeing the army and the mercenaries mobilizing after the loud explosion Zassia caused in the gate, the army protecting the interior while the mercenaries protecting the exterior, trapping their group in the middle.

Quantity was not a problem for strong individuals, but sometimes quantity could overwhelm even the strongest one.

Xeke teleported in front of Hakken and Sollel. “You two handle the army. We’ll handle the mercenaries, and we’ll try to help afterwards. Grath is being held in the center of their square park. You won’t miss it.” Then Xeke looked at Zassia. “Keep making fireballs, Lady Zassia, and make them explosive.”

Everyone nodded at Xeke, but before Sollel left, she messed Zassia’s hair and said, “Be careful. If you can’t hold out, pray to Queen Sollel. She’ll save you.”

Zassia smiled brightly. “Yes, teacher.”

Sollel faced Hakken, and after looking at each other, the two entered the noble’s hill.

The armies inside immediately swarmed around Sollel and Hakken, but Cira—who could see the whole area with her bow and arrow ready—was not worried. In her mind, Queen Sollel could easily wipe out this noble hill and make it a barren land if she wanted to.

But Cira’s confidence slowly disappeared when she saw the soldier attacking in a great number, and Queen Sollel dropped weakly on the ground.

The confidence in Cira’s eyes was quickly replaced by worry and fear. There was only one thing in this world that could weaken the Mistress of Flame in an instant.

A moonrite stone! 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 24

CHAPTER 24

HAKKEN IMMEDIATELY noticed that there was something wrong with his lady before he even heard Cira’s voice, shouting at him to get his lady to safety. Just hearing the desperation in Cira’s voice, Hakken knew it was an urgent order that his body moved on its own.

“Get her out of there!”

Hakken didn’t waste any time. He picked up his lady and carried her out of the walls surrounding the noble’s hill, into the dark forest below the hill. He ran as fat as he could that the soldiers lost sight of them.

Knowing that he couldn’t leave his lady just anywhere, Hakken picked a large tree he could climb and let his lady sit on its large tree branch, fifteen feet high from the ground.

Sollel still felt weak even after putting a safe distance from the moonrite, but her strength was slowly coming back. Even though she was recovering quickly, however, she was angry at the thought that she couldn’t enter the hill and save the people she cared about.

“Are you okay, my lady?” Hakken asked, worried. “Should we go back now?”

Sollel was ashamed to shake her head. She was the one eager to fight and save Grath, but here she was, weak and useless. She might be free, but right now, she felt like she was back to her prison, caged and trapped again, too weak to save herself and the others.

“Hakken, go back. You’re more needed there than I.” They heard Cira’s voice before she landed on the same tree branch Sollel was sitting on. “I will take care of Her Highness.”

Hakken held Sollel’s hand and squeezed it before he jumped down from the tree and went back running for the noble’s hill, his face contorting in rage and bloodlust.

Back in the tree, Cira sat in front of Sollel and looked down. “I’m sorry, Your Highness. It’s my fault. I can’t still find a stone that could negate the moonrite’s effect on you.”

“It’s not your fault.” Sollel took a deep breath while waiting to fully recover. “Go. I can’t fight. Please save Grath for me, Cira.”

“Your Highness—”

“I’ll be fine here.”

Cira clenched her fist, seeing Queen Sollel struggling because of those good-for-nothing humans. “I will go back, but not to fight. I will look for that damn stone and break it.”

Even though she was feeling bad, Sollel couldn’t help smiling at Cira, amused by her words. “Cira, even if you break the stone into pieces, its power to weaken me will never change.”

“Then I’ll seal it in my pouch,” said Cira, gritting her teeth. “Just where the heck are they getting that stone?!”

“I have no idea.” Sollel sighed and leaned on the tree trunk. “We know that we are weak to moonrite stones, but it’s a rare stone, almost nonexistent, so we didn’t mind. After being imprisoned—and even now—I still don’t know where they get so many moonrite stones. I don’t even know where humans learned about our weakness. It happened so suddenly.”

Cira closed her eyes to calm herself. “I’m going, Your Highness. I have to find it and seal that stone so you could raze hell and burn those good-for-nothing nobles on the hill.”

Sollel smiled at Cira and watched her jump from tree to tree to go back to the hill.

Alone, Sollel sighed and clenched her fist. She felt so useless sitting there, hiding while everyone was fighting to save Grath. I can’t even save and protect the people I blessed. A queen who couldn’t save her people was not a queen at all.

♕♕♕

OBSERVING THE noble’s hill from a hidden place, Cira saw how vicious Hakken was in battle. He was fiercer and more merciless than their other battles. Was it because Queen Sollel was hurt? Cira thought, pressing her lips together as she watched Hakken mercilessly slaughtering the soldiers who dared to block his way.

Then Cira’s gaze settled on Xeke who was on top of the gate, controlling his daggers to attack the mercenaries with Zassia’s help.

Seeing that everything seemed under control, Cira used her speed and agility to slip inside the noble’s hill unnoticed. Hiding in the shadows, Cira went inside the nearest building that stood out after calculating the distance where Queen Sollel felt the stone earlier. It was a grand temple. She would bet that the moonrite stone was here.

Remembering one of her discoveries about the stone even though she was still not finished analyzing it wholly which the stone would glow brightly when another moonrite stone was in the vicinity. She pulled out her sealing pouch from her satchel and took out the moonrite stone to use its glow to find the other moonrite stones.

Carefully advancing with the moonrite stone in hand, Cira followed the glow of the stone, using it as her guide inside this huge mansion while evading the humans who were roaming around. With Cira’s speed and agility, it was an easy feat.

Cira didn’t encounter any trouble and reached a large high-ceiling room in the center of the temple safely.

Looking around the dark large room, her elven eyes immediately adjusted to the darkness, and it settled on a statue at the center of the room. The statue of the King of Treterra—King Maximilian Treterra.

And the statue was holding a moonrite stone.

Cira grinned in triumph and was about to climb the statue when she felt a killing aura behind her.

With a speed that could rival lightning, Cira jumped to the other side of the room. And when her feet landed on the floor, a large black war hammer with a long handle slammed on the place where she was earlier.

Cira shivered, seeing how the floor shattered into tiny pieces on impact. If not for my speed, it would’ve been me.

Cira looked at the man holding the war hammer like it didn’t weigh tons. The man was wearing an impressive black plate armor and Cira was intimidated. With one look, she immediately knew that she was no match for him.

Cira subtly stepped back while looking for an escape. She knew she’d die if she stayed there. Damn it! Cira glanced at the moonrite stone on the statue. I was so close! I need to seal that—

Faster than her elf’s eyes could see, the man in black full plate armor moved and appeared in front of her, shocking Cira, but she was still fast enough to react and jump away, avoiding his war hammer again. But the man didn’t let her escape. He followed her movement, chasing her with his war hammer, and even though he was wearing a full plate armor, he was too fast, keeping up with Cira’s movements until the side of his war hammer hit Cira, sending her flying in the air before Cira’s back slammed on the room’s thick wall.

Cira vomited blood at the impact, her rib broke, but she quickly got up and moved when she saw the war hammer about to plummet her to the floor.

Cira barely escaped, and the pressure of the war hammer slammed her body on the wall again. Blood dripped from Cira’s mouth, but she still stood. With her internal wounds, Cira’s movement slowed down that when the man’s war hammer was about to pulverize her, it was too late to move.

I’m sorry, Your Highness. Cira winced at the pain her body was enduring as she waited for her demise, but before she could be pulverized by the war hammer, someone appeared in front of her, out of thin air, and blocked the war hammer with only his dagger.

“X-Xeke…”

Unbeknownst to Cira, when she left to go to Sollel, Xeke put one of his daggers on her arrow’s quiver, in case of emergency.

Xeke gritted his teeth as his hands holding the dagger blocking the war hammer trembled. It was too heavy, but his dagger was an arcane weapon. “Go!” he hissed at Cira. “Hakken already got Grath. Go!”

Cira didn’t need to be told twice. With her body burning in pain, she stood and moved to escape, but the man with a war hammer didn’t let her. He withdrew from clashing with Xeke’s dagger and threw his war hammer at the escaping Cira.

But when it came to speed, no one could beat Xeke. He appeared before Cira and blocked the war hammer, used his five daggers to break the large glass window for Cira’s escape, and then willed his five daggers to make a staircase for Cira.

“Go!”

Cira nodded and, in a weak and pained state, she jumped, her foot landing on the dagger. She staggered, but Xeke’s dagger was there to support her. From behind her, he could hear clashing of steel, but she didn’t turn around to see how Xeke was doing. She focused all her attention on escaping because she knew, if she failed to escape, she would be a burden to Xeke. And being a burden was nothing something Cira enjoyed.

Before Cira’s feet touched the ground, the smell of blood filled her nostrils, making her crunch her nose. Dead soldiers were everywhere, and blood was scattered on the ground. Hakken must have been very furious.

Seeing Cira nearly falling to the ground, Zassia helped her up and followed Hakken who was also helping Grath.

“X-Xeke…” Cira murmured as she vomited a mouthful of blood. “H-he’s still fighting…”

“He’ll be fine.” Hakken spoke sternly as they left the noble’s hill to meet up with Sollel in the forest.

♕♕♕

WHEN CIRA LEFT, Sollel kept on trying to enter the noble’s hill, but everyone she neared it, she immediately felt dizzy, and her strength drained in an instant. She wanted so bad to burn every human on that hill, but because of that damn stone, she couldn’t even protect the people closed to her.

Sollel spent her time worrying, she had no choice but to wait. If only she could use her flame from where she was standing, but her flame had a limit when it comes to distance. And without seeing the battlefield, she might end up hurting the people she wanted to protect.

So, she waited and waited, and she finally saw Hakken, helping Grath to walk, and Zassia helping Cira—

Cira… Sollel’s eyes widened when she saw Cira’s estate. Her lips trembled and her rage exploded together with her flame, devouring the forest they were in.

“C-Cira…” and it felt like she was seeing her past all over again, as Cira tried to walk towards her with Zassia’s help, Sollel remembered Gatria walking towards her, in the same state as Cira, looking so pale and weak, Gatria’s hand reaching out to her before they were shackled by humans.

“Y-your Highness…” Cira’s voice snapped Sollel out from her reveries. “S-Sorry… I— I couldn’t g-get the stone.”

Sollel shook her head and wrapped her arm around Cira, supporting her. “It’s okay. Spread your essence all over your body and try healing yourself. I’m here now. I’ll burn anyone who’ll hurt you.”

Cira smiled before she finally lost consciousness.

“We have to go,” said Hakken who took Cira from Sollel to carry her. “Grath said he can walk. We have to get out of here.”

Sollel looked around. “Where’s Xeke?”

“He’ll be fine.” Hakken was already walking. “Come on. Let’s go.”

Sollel, Zassia and Grath followed Hakken out of the forest and into the barren land again, leaving Xeke behind on the noble’s hill.

♕♕♕

THE RELIEF Xeke felt when Cira escaped made him smile that he felt like he was the one who escaped. Shaking his head, he focused his attention on his enemy. He could teleport himself to the forest outside nobles hill since he left a dagger there just in case, but if he disappeared, the man hes fighting might follow Cira and the others.

I need to buy some time.

Xeke was used to travelling alone. It was actually his first time travelling with companions and he had a good time. It was fun and he wanted that fun to continue.

Xeke hissed and grunted when the war hammers weight doubled while he was blocking it with his dagger. His hand trembled while he was being pushed down by the hammer. One wrong movement and he will be pulverized.

Damn it! Xeke hissed and disappeared to escape the hammers weight, then reappeared behind the wielder of the war hammer and willed his remaining daggers to attack the man from above.

The man in black full plate armor easily dodged it with speed and called his war hammer back to his hand.

Xeke clicked his tongue in annoyance and willed his dagger to float around him.

With his hands controlling the daggers, Xeke clocked the war hammers attack with his five daggers, blocking it midair and then with his hand commanding the rest of his daggers, it flew rapidly towards his enemy, clashing and penetrating his enemys full plate armor.

The man in black full plate armor was stunned to see the dagger penetrating his armor and blocking his war hammers attacks. To think that a simple, short dagger could block his war hammer weighing half a ton, and their speed was also almost identical.

Kar Drue called his war hammer back to his hand and stared at his enemy and his daggers floating around him. That dagger is interesting. Let me see it up close.

Xeke readied for another attack when he saw the man raised his war hammer, but instead of throwing the hammer at him and attacking him, the man slammed the face of the hammer on the floor, causing it to crack. And just when Xeke was wondering what the man was doing, he felt a formidable pressure thickening the air around him and pulling him and his daggers towards the hammer.

Xeke gritted his teeth and stood his ground, but he couldnt escape the formidable air sucking him towards the hammer. He teleported everywhere in the room to escape the pressure, but the overpowering forced coming from the hammer was still pulling him wherever he went.

Damn it! Theres only one way to escape this.

Xeke clenched his jaw and in a heartbeat, he vanished into thin air, together with his daggers and reappeared outside the nobles hill, in the forest, surrounded by fire.

Xekes lips parted in shock and amazement at his bad luck. What the hell…

♕♕♕

WHEN Kar Drue saw his enemy disappeared into thin air and his presence disappeared together with him, he immediately assumed that the man had escaped, together with his dagger. Kar sighed before he let go of his hammer to take off his armors helmet, showing his brown long hair, reaching his shoulder and his hazel golden eyes.

Looking at the broken glass window, he remembered the daggers that blocked his war hammer again.

No weapon could block his war hammer, definitely not a small harmless looking dagger.

Is it an arcane weapon? With that thought, Kar Drue looked at his war hammer. It was an arcane weapon that only he, the descendant of Sappher, could wield.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 25

CHAPTER 25

A CHAOS BROKE inside the throne room of the Kingdom of Treterra when the report of what happened to Castetava reached their ears. Hundreds of soldiers died; the mercenaries were all burned to death by the Mistress of Flame; some escaped but suffered from severe burns; some vials were stolen; and the forest was still burning, and it couldn’t be put out.

What made everyone worry and slightly panic was the forest fire. The report said that it felt like it had a mind of its own. The fire was not spreading like a normal fire—it was moving upward, to the noble’s hill, like it was the only place it wanted to go.

Reading the reports, everyone believed that it was Mistress of Flame’s doing. And they couldn’t deny the worry and fear in their hearts. They only heard what the queens of Yther could from their forefathers, but it was enough to put terror in their hearts.

“Did they see her?” a noble asked.

One of the nobles nodded. “I heard the noble’s hill sent a sketch, and the Mistress of Flame is carrying a fire stone.”

“It’ll be distributed soon,” the noble beside the two added.

Then one of the prime ministers spoke. “S-Should we surrender the Mistress of Nature—”

“Are you an imbecile?” King Maximilian snapped at the minister who spoke. “The Mistress of Nature is the reason why we’re still alive in this barren land! Letting her go is not an option!”

“But the Mistress of Flame—”

“Is weak to moonrite stone. She’s maybe powerful, but we have something that could weaken her,” one of the prime ministers interrupted. “She’s no match for us as long as we have moonrite stones to defend ourselves.”

The king nodded. “Yes. Don’t be scared and let her come. We will capture her and sell her to the empire. We’ll not only earn money, but the empire will also owe us.”

One prime minister stepped forward and spoke. “Your Highness, I think it would be best to hide our moonrite stones for now and let the Mistress of Flame enter Ager without a hitch. It would lower her guard, and once she’s inside the city, that’s when we’ll bring out our moonrite stone and capture her.”

King Maximilian liked the idea that it made him smile. “Good idea, but she has companions, I believe.”

One of the prime ministers snorted. “What can an elf, two hunters, and a demi-human do against our kingdom? With our elite troops, our renowned general, and the finest sorceresses and sorcerers, they are no match for us. They only managed to damage the noble’s hill because of the Mistress of Flame’s help and their attack was sudden. Without her, they are nothing but insects.”

King Maximilian had a triumphant smile as he handed the sketches of the individuals who raided the noble’s hill to his aide. “Make a wanted poster out of these sketches on the announcement board, but don’t let it leave Ager. It will help us pinpoint their location once they entered the city.”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

King Maximilian nodded with a smile, eager to capture the Mistress of Flame and take advantage of the empire.

♕♕♕

INSIDE THE CITY of Ager, an old man was silently walking on the side of the street with the help of his cane when a commotion caught his attention. Looking ahead of him, people were talking and whispering to one another as they watched a soldier of the kingdom paste five sketches on the announcement board with the word WANTED on top of them.

It was a copy of the sketches that King Maximilian gave to his aide yesterday, and with the soldiers working extra fast, they were able to copy the sketches sent to them and paste them on the board as ordered.

People flocked to the board when the soldier left, and one of those people was the old man walking on the street earlier. When a soldier put something on the announcement board in the middle of Ager City, it’s always an important edict from the king.

The old man wanted to reach the announcement board, but he was too far away. There were too many people that he had to wait for his turn to be in front.

With the help of his cane, he walked and balanced himself every time he would accidentally be pushed by the crowd. Thankfully, a good-hearted man made a way for him toward the front.

Looking up at the announcement board, the old man saw five sketches and the word WANTED on top of them.

Seeing the five sketches, the old man dropped his cane in shock upon seeing one of the females on the sketch—the one holding a staff with a firestone—and the word Leader was written below it.

Trembling in shock and worry, the old man picked up his cane, left the announcement board, and went back to his house.

When he entered his house, he immediately made a paper bird and infused it with his essence while thinking of the person he wanted to give it to. And in a matter of seconds, the paper bird flapped its wings like it was alive and flew to the sky like how a real bird would.

♕♕♕

ESCAPING NOBLE’S HILL and traversing the barren land again, the group of five people were having an arduous time. Two of them were injured, and they didn’t have a scout to clear the path for them and avoid beasts. As Sollel and Zassia assisted Cira and Grath, Hakken was in front, fighting the beasts that blocked their way. From time to time, Sollel would use her flame to defend, but the attacking was left to Hakken.

They did all that the whole day, and only when the night came did they rest behind two large boulders.

Sollel and Zassia laid their two injured companions on the makeshift bed.

After checking on the two, Grath only needed rest, but Cira was severely injured that Sollel couldn’t control her flame from raging inside her. She left the boulder and distanced herself from everyone, and when she was finally alone, a scream filled with rage and agony came out from her mouth. Her flame burst out from her body, exploding all around her.

Zassia and Hakken, who were left in the boulder to look after Grath and Cira, saw the flame explosion, even from afar. They felt the heat of Sollel’s flame.

“My lady…”

“Teacher…”

Hakken took a deep breath and looked at Zassia who had tears in her eyes. “Don’t worry. She’ll be fine. She’s a strong woman.”

Zassia dried her tears and smiled sadly. “People always say that when a strong woman is hurting, but that’s still pain. Even the strongest wall crumbles. People are not an exemption to that however strong they are.”

Hakken glanced at Sollel who’s still surrounded by her flame. “I don’t know what I can do…to lessen the pain she’s feeling. She had been enduring her pain all alone. I feel like I’m not needed and that she can handle it on her own.”

Zassia smiled at Hakken after realizing something. “You like her, don’t you?”

Hakken chuckled while still looking at Sollel. “Is it that obvious?”

Zassia nodded. “Cira told me that they hired you in Ashmire. Well, my teacher is very charming. I don’t blame you.”

Hakken smiled. “She doesn’t like me though.”

Zassia blinked at Hakken. “She teases you a lot though.”

“What?”

“She teases you a lot,” Zassia said it like it should mean something.

“Yes. So?”

Zassia looked at Hakken like something was wrong with him. “Do you see my teacher teasing anyone aside from you? I’m her student, but Teacher doesn’t really talk to me or to Grath a lot. She only talks a lot when she’s with you. I mean, she talks to Lady Cira, but she never teases Lady Cira.”

Hakken smiled softly at what Zassia said before he glanced at Cira. “Don’t let her hear you say that. That elf will throw a fit.”

Zassia chuckled before she became sad all of the sudden. “Is there nothing we can do for Lady Cira?”

Hakken shook his head. “What we can do is reach Sarnau fast and look for a healer.”

“I think Grath will make a full recovery tomorrow,” said Zassia. “We’ll be a little bit faster.”

Hakken nodded and glanced at Sollel who’s now walking back to the boulder. Hakken didn’t say anything and just watched his lady sit beside Cira and hold Cira’s hand.

Sollel was silent while sitting beside Cira. In her head, she kept apologizing to Cira for what happened to her, with a promise that she would avenge her. Sollel wanted nothing but Cira’s recovery, but she didn’t want to risk Cira’s life by feeding her a wrong medicine.

“We need to get to Sarnau,” Sollel suddenly said, surprising Zassia and Hakken. “We need a healer for Cira.”

Hakken nodded. “We’ll try to go faster tomorrow.”

Sollel nodded and looked at Cira again. Her guilt was eating her. The time when Cira needed me the most, I wasn’t there. Just like when Gatria needed me and I couldn’t help.

Sollel squeezed Cira’s hand. “Please recover fast. You can be as noisy as you want. I won’t mind.”

Even when there was no response from Cira, Sollel stayed by her side and only went to the boulder when Zassia offered to look after Cira after resting for a little bit.

Sollel sat on the top of the boulder, beside Hakken, who was there as their lookout.

After a long silence, Sollel spoke in a low voice. “This happened because I was careless and didn’t make a plan. I’m sorry.”

Hakken took a deep breath. “My lady, I know you’re angry and there were times when your anger always gets the better of you. What I’m trying to say is, control your rage, or you’ll lose.”

Sollel looked down before she glanced at Hakken. “How…how are you? You didn’t let those soldiers harm you, did you?”

Hakken glanced at Sollel. “No. I didn’t.”

Sollel let out a relieved sigh. “I’m glad.”

But Hakken looked sullen. “It took you a whole night and day to ask. I’m hurt, my lady.”

Sollel couldn’t help smiling at Hakken’s sullen face. “Well, if you get severely injured like Cira, I would’ve asked sooner.”

Hakken’s sullen face disappeared and was replaced by a playful smile. “Promise?”

Sollel nodded. “Promise. Though I wouldn’t care for you like how I care for Cira, but I promise I’ll be worried.”

Hakken narrowed his eyes on Sollel. “Are you teasing me again?”

Sollel couldn’t help laughing a little. “Is it that obvious?”

“Yes.”

Sollel laugh turned into a small chuckle. “Yes, I’m teasing you.”

“Am I fun to tease?”

Sollel nodded. “Very.”

Hakken lost his narrowed eyes and smiled. “I’m glad it made you laugh.”

Sollel’s smile widened as she teased Hakken again, “Aw. My hunter is flirting again.”

Hakken groaned, but he had a smile on his lips as he conversed with Sollel. The two stayed on top of the boulder, talking about small things, passing the time without realizing that they were getting to know each other. Sollel just felt calm talking to Hakken and his coquettishness, while Hakken was enjoying his time listening to Sollel’s voice and her teasing.

The two only realized the time when the sun started rising in the sky. The flirty Hakken and the teasing Sollel disappeared as they started traversing the barren land again. Grath made a full recovery, so he made a makeshift bed made of dried logs and laid Cira’s body there and carried it with Zassia and Sollel’s help.

Sollel’s essence never left Cira, wrapping Cira’s body to protect her from the heat of the barren land.

When night came, Cira had a fever. Sollel had to stay with Cira’s side, drawing the heat from Cira’s body to somehow make her feel a little better. And since Zassia and Hakken needed to rest, Grath volunteered to be their guard.

“How is Lady Cira?” Grath asked when everyone was asleep except for them.

“Not doing well.” Sollel sighed.

Grath had a guilty expression on his face. “I’m very sorry, Your Highness. It was my fault. Something happened that rendered me unconscious.”

Sollel looked at Grath. “What happened? Could you tell me?”

Grath nodded and narrated what happened to Sollel, from his visit to the market up to the time when he lost consciousness.

“You’re saying…your claw slash released a flame in a claw shape and it drained you?”

Grath looked down, ashamed. He who was known for brute strength was taken down by his own ability. “Yes, Your Highness. I’m very sorry. This is all my fault.”

Sollel waved her hand, signaling Grath to stop his apology. “That’s normal. It was your first time wielding flame after all. Unlike Zassia who had the basic knowledge of wielding flame and could control her essence to maximize her flame and strength, you have no idea whatsoever.”

Grath blinked at Sollel. “What…do you mean, Your Highness? Why are you comparing me to Lady Zassia? I don’t…understand.”

Sollel took a deep breath and released it calmly. She knew that after her blessing, she had to tell Grath something to answer his query. “Grath…I, uh, I accidentally blessed you with my flame.”

Grath was confused because no one could just bless someone and give them the ability to wield flame. But Grath only knew about blessing items, such as weapons and other things, but he had never heard someone bless a person, a demi-human at that. It was unfeasible even to the strongest flame sorcerer in Azitera. No being or creature could bless a living, breathing individual, except for the deities.

“Blessed me? H-how? I mean…you can do that, Your Highness?” Is she a deity? Grath was in awe.

Sollel nodded. “When I casually gave you a nickname back in Belrac, I unknowingly blessed you. That’s why you got sick while traveling to Castetava…because my flame essence and your soul were fighting inside you, trying to dominate one another since the blessing did not have your consent. I had to force my essence unto you to not damage your soul but damaging your body instead. I’m so sorry, Grath.”

Grath was silent for a long time. Sollel thought he was mad and didn’t want to speak until four words left his mouth, stunning Sollel.

“Are you a deity?”

Sollel hurriedly shook her head. Not wanting to offend any deity, she immediately explained. “No. You’re mistaken. I am no deity, but I have an ability to bless someone. It was an ability given to me by the deity who blessed me. I didn’t realize the extent of that ability. I thought a blessing from me through giving a name, without me giving a part of my flame essence, only works on infants. But…it worked on you.”

Grath was silent again. He looked deep in thought, and when he looked at Sollel, he had another question that froze her.

“Are you…Queen Sollel?”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 26

CHAPTER 26

SOLLEL DIDN’T KNOW how to answer Grath. What would be the best course of action to take? Lie or tell him the truth? As Sollel weighed the pros and cons of her options, she heard Grath spoke again with his head lowered.

“My apologies for asking such personal question, Your Highness.” Grath didn’t want to offend the queen he swore to serve. “Us demi-humans are not a long-lived race like elves and others, but we lived longer than humans, and their knowledge and beliefs are different from ours. We demi-humans knew the truth the humans tried to hide. We also know that the only beings blessed by the deities in Azitera are the queens of Yther, so when Her Highness said that she was blessed by a deity, I assumed. Based by Her Highness’s power, I was too excited and hastily asked. Please forgive me for my insolence, Your Highness.”

Sollel couldn’t help smiling in the midst of the tension. “Grath, no need to be so formal with me. I’m just a queen with no people and land. Nothing impressive.”

Grath promptly moved to kneel on one knee, his head still lowered. “I will be impudent and ask if I could be one of your people, like Lady Cira.”

Sollel blinked and looked at Cira. My…people. “Grath, being my people is hard. It’ll get you killed.”

“The moment I pledge my loyalty to Her Highness in Belrac, my life has been yours, Your Highness.”

Sollel smiled at Grath’s earnest voice. “I told you, don’t be so formal with me.”

Grath looked up and looked at the queen in front of him. Her highness did not confirm nor deny his question earlier, but Grath did not need confirmation. He knew the queen in front of him was none other than Queen Sollel, the Mistress of Flame, one of the few beings in Azitera blessed by deities.

Grath was in overawe and just stared at the queen in reverence. He only removed his eyes from the queen when he remembered something. “Your Highness, I took a few vials from the noble’s hill. It seemed very important to them, but what got me really curious is that the content of the vial felt familiar somehow.”

Sollel frowned. “Familiar?”

Grath nodded and took out the vial he had been hiding in his pocket. He wrapped it one by one with a cloth to make sure that it won’t break. “The content of these vials,” Grath said, handing the vials to Sollel. “It felt like the forest I lived in before we were captured to be slaves. I can never forget the feeling of my home, the warmth of the forest surrounding my tribe.”

Sollel took the vial from Grath. She already had an idea what the content of this vial after listening to Grath, but she was pushing the idea away. She didn’t want to imagine the pain and suffering Gatria had gone through all these years.

But the truth was now right in front of her.

As Sollel opened the vial, an earthy, flowery, crisp, and fresh fragrance wafted around her. The scent was soft and calming, like nature in the morning—fresh and untainted. It felt so warm and beautiful, but a lone tear filled with sorrow fell from Sollel’s eyes.

The content of the vial was no fragrance. It was Gatria’s blood.

That’s why it felt familiar when I was in Castetava market. It was Gatria’s blood. They’re harvesting Gatria’s blood like how the empire harvested mine!

A tear after another fell from Sollel’s eyes as she gripped the vials in her hand. “Why…why…after caring and nurturing them, why would they betray us like this?” Sollel’s voice trembled as tears of sorrow and rage fell from her eyes. “Gatria…why would they do this to Gatria?”

Grath’s lips parted in shock, hearing the soft whisper of the queen. He didn’t need a detailed explanation to understand the queen’s trembling and sorrowful voice and words. That’s why the content of the vial felt like our forest back home. Our forest might’ve been blessed too.

“Grath.” Sollel’s voice had return calm.

Grath straightened his body. “Yes, Your Highness?”

“If you want to be my people, you have to train your essence and flame. I need strong soldiers.”

Grath’s eyes widened in gratitude and astonishment. “Yes, My Queen!” Grath bowed his head at Sollel. “I have no idea how, but I will do my best to train my essence.” Grath was a demi-human who couldn’t wield any elemental essence. Demi-humans were known for their brute strength and not the essence, so to suddenly train his essence, it would be very hard on Grath.

“I’ll help you,” said Sollel. “You will train with Zassia.”

Grath nodded, excited at the thought that he could be of use to his queen. “I will do my best.” Then his eyes fell on Lady Zassia who was sleeping on the ground. “Does…Lady Zassia know about you, Your Highness?”

Sollel shook her head. “It’s better that way. We will part ways in Ager. I don’t want to drag her into my battle.” Sollel handed the vials back to Grath. “Keep this. Using the content of the vial, we can make a forest even here in the barren land. It could heal and revitalize the dead soil. It might come in handy.”

Grath accepted the vials. “Is this what the nobles are using in the noble’s hill?”

“I believe so, yes.”

Grath took a deep breath. “Your Highness, after what happened in the noble’s hill, we should assume that the news already reached the kingdom. We have to be very careful. They might set a trap for you.”

“I think so too.” Sollel sighed and took a deep breath. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll think of something, while you—until the sun rises—meditate and feel your essence. It’ll be hard on you since you have no idea what it is, so I will lend a hand.”

Sollel raised her finger wrapped in flame and pointed it at Grath’s chest. Feeling Grath’s flame essence, Sollel tugged it, and Grath jumped in surprise when he felt a hot sensation on his chest.

“I draw out your flame essence,” said Sollel. “Feel it and study it before it slumbers in your soul again. Right now, you’re like an infant with an adult flame essence. You have to know and understand how to draw out your essence without my help. That’s your first task. Once you can draw out your flame essence on your own, I will teach you some basic flame attacks that suits your fighting style.”

Grath nodded. “Then I will excuse myself, My Queen. Thank you so much!”

When Grath left, Sollel took a deep breath and looked at Cira. Her fever had gone down, calming Sollel down, but she knew that was not enough for Cira to recover.

We have to reach Sarnau without delay.

♕♕♕

MORNING CAME AND SOLLEL’S group was back crossing the barren land to reach Sarnau. To hasten their travel, instead of using the makeshift bed, Grath carried Cira, who was wrapped with covers in his arms, and they ran instead of walking.

Hakken was in front, behind him was Grath carrying Cira, and then Zassia and Sollel was on the rear to make sure that Zassia would keep up and wouldn’t be left behind.

They continued traversing the barren lands with that pace, and after two days, they finally saw Sarnau on the horizon. Unlike Castetava, they could see some vegetation in Sarnau.

Seeing Sarnau, the group started running fast to reach the town. Meanwhile, Sollel was thinking how to pass the gate since she didn’t have any identification. Hakken couldn’t possibly use the same lie again, right?

Just when Sollel was worried, they all saw a man on top of the town’s gate, waving his hands and arms at them.

Sollel narrowed her eyes on the man at the top of the gate. “Xe…ke?”

Sollel’s guess was proven right when a dagger flew in their direction, and in a blink of an eye, Xeke appeared in front of them, his eyes on Cira.

“Come on. I already asked the healer in town to heal Cira.” No explanation was needed with Xeke; he just guided them toward Sarnau’s gate.

Fortunately, the soldiers in Sarnau bought Hakken’s lie again about him and Sollel eloping, desperately hiding from their family that they traversed the barren land and run away to prove their love to each other.

When they entered Sarnau, Xeke took Cira from Grath’s arms and carried Cira toward the healer’s house. Everyone was not surprised that Xeke found a healer and that Xeke arrived in Sarnau before them. What surprised them was the healer Xeke found.

It was a female elf, and when she saw Cira and her condition, she gasped in alarm and immediately let Xeke lay Cira’s body on the bed.

“We’ll go look for an inn,” said Hakken to Sollel after making sure that Cira was in good hands. “I’ll come back later after I find a new war blade.”

Sollel nodded and faced Zassia and Grath. “Go with Hakken. Have a good rest, freshen up, and then start your training again.”

Zassia and Grath nodded and followed Hakken out of the house, while Sollel stayed with Cira, together with Xeke.

Watching the female elf heal Cira with her essence, Xeke and Sollel calmed down, and their worry lessened. And while waiting, Xeke sat on the chair beside Sollel.

“You knew, didn’t you?” Xeke asked Sollel while looking at Cira. “That she’s not just a normal elf?”

Sollel wanted to act ignorant, but Xeke sounded earnest, so she answered him honestly. “Yes.”

“What give it away?”

“Her speed and combat ability,” Sollel answered. It was not hard to see through Cira.

Xeke nodded. “She told me she was an elven warrior until she was kicked out.”

“I thought so.” Sollel looked at Cira. “She tried to hide it from me though.”

“And that’s okay with you?”

Sollel shrugged. “I’m on a journey, and I only got this far because of Cira’s help. It’s not big of a deal for me.”

Xeke felt relieved. “That’s good to hear. Lady Cira will be very happy to hear that.”

Sollel glanced at Xeke. After traveling with Xeke and seeing how his dagger worked, Sollel was sure that he was a descendant of Sappher. But even though he was one, Sollel was not worried, especially seeing how he treated Cira. Descendants of Sapphers were warriors, and they took pride in fighting head-to-head. They do not like underhanded tactics.

Descendants of Sappher… a hazy memory of a man entered Sollel’s mind. The man she fought with when Sappher declared war on Yther. Sollel couldn’t remember his face fully now, but he was one odd warrior. She remembered him asking her if he could marry her after he won the battle. I can’t remember my response to that man anymore. But he was an extraordinary warrior. She nearly lost to him if her memory served her right.

Sollel took a deep breath and asked Xeke the question she had after seeing Cira’s injuries. “Who did this to her?”

Xeke’s face immediately darkened. “It was the man wearing a black full plate armor. After I reached Sarnau, I asked around. I found out that that man is the renowned general of the Kingdom of Treterra.”

Sollel pressed her lips together. “Is he strong?”

Xeke nodded. “Honestly, I’m no match for him. Maybe Hakken would stand a chance, but with his weak war blades, I doubt if he could last a minute against that guy.”

“A sorcerer?”

Xeke shook his head. “I’m pretty sure he’s a warrior with a hardcore weapon—a war hammer that has an ability to pull someone close to maximize his war hammer colossal attack. That thing was so big, it could crush anyone. If not for my dagger, I would’ve been squashed to death.”

No wonder Cira was badly injured. “Treterra’s general, huh?”

Xeke sighed and leaned on his seat. “I just hope we don’t see him again. After what he did to Lady Cira…” I don’t think I can forgive him even if he’s a descendant of Sappher. “We have to be ready if we want to enter the city of Ager safely.”

Sollel nodded.

“By the way, Lady El.” Xeke turned his head to look at the red-cloaked woman beside him. “I have a question.”

Sollel nodded and waited for Xeke’s question.

“Your hunter, where did you hire him? He’s good.”

That put a smile on Sollel’s lips. “In Ashmire. We wanted a guide to the city of Ager because Cira sucked at direction.”

Xeke frowned. “And he…accepted the job?”

Sollel nodded. “For one hundred gold coins.”

Xeke’s lips parted in shock. “Holy…that’s too much!”

“Indeed, but after seeing his performance in battle, I think it was a fair payment.”

Xeke closed his parted lips. “I guess…I mean, he’s good.”

Sollel felt proud hearing Hakken being praised. He was indeed an amazing warrior; he deserved the praise and recognition. And it put Sollel in a good mood.

“By the way, do you still want your dagger to be blessed by flame?” Sollel asked since she was in a good mood. “I can bless it.”

Xeke’s dagger appeared in front of him out of thin air, a smile playing on his lips. “Thank you, but I think my dagger is better this way. If you blessed it with flame, it’ll be a flaming dagger, and I wouldn’t be able to support Lady Cira in the air anymore. It might burn her, so I have to decline.”

Xeke’s answer stunned Sollel. It was not only his words, but also the expression on his face. “Okay. I understand.”

Xeke and Sollel’s conversation was interrupted when they heard Zassia’s voice from outside the house.

“Teacher? Teacher?”

Sollel excused herself and went out of the house to meet Zassia.

“What is it?” Sollel asked, seeing the worry on Zassia’s face.

Zassia hurriedly handed Sollel a bird made from paper.

“I think…we have a problem, Teacher.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 27

CHAPTER 27

SOLLEL UNFOLDED the bird paper and was surprised to see a message inside. It was not the message that surprised her; it was the fact that it was written in an old language, not the new one. “Old language…”

Zassia gasped when she heard her teacher. “I’m sorry, Teacher! I forgot that it’s written in the old language. I can translate it for you, if you want, Teacher.”

Sollel got curious. “Why use the old language? To hide the content of the letter?”

Zassia shook her head and smiled proudly. “In our village, we used the old language because we revered the queens of Yther who helped us humans developed the language. Even now, I’m speaking to Teacher using the old language, but because of the linguae elixir I drank, instead of the old language, you’re hearing the new developed language.”

Sollel blinked. “Linguae…Elixir?”

Zassia nodded. “I don’t know where my grandmother bought it though.”

“Can you ask her?” Sollel knew she was demanding, but upon hearing the elixir, she had a feeling that that elixir had something to do why she could talk normally to others, like Zassia.

Zassia became sad at Sollel’s question. “I’m sorry, Teacher. I don’t have the means to communicate with Grandma. Only Grandpa could make this paper bird because he’s a wind sorcerer.”

Sollel looked at the bird paper in her hand. “Wind sorcerer, huh…”

Zassia nodded and looked down. “Sorry, Teacher.”

“It’s okay,” Sollel replied nonchalantly, but it was a big deal to her. She just didn’t want to sadden her student. It was not her fault. “Anyway, with your grandfather’s message, I don’t think we can enter Ager without a solid plan, or else, we’re all going to prison.”

Zassia paled, but she remained brave. “I will listen to the teacher’s instruction. I will not endanger Teacher.”

Zassia looked so adorable, like a child, in Sollel’s eyes that Sollel couldn’t help messing Zassia’s hair. “You’re my first student. I won’t let anything bad happen to you too.” Sollel stopped messing with Zassia’s hair. “Now the first thing you should do is hide that staff of yours and wear a cloak to hide yourself.”

“Yes, Teacher.”

“And don’t wander alone, Zassia. Your flame may be fierce, but you’re still inexperienced.”

Zassia nodded.

“How’s your crawling flame, by the way? Are you getting better at it?”

Zassia blushed. “Only a little. My flame could follow me for fifteen seconds only—only a few meters.” Unlike her teacher who could control her flame to follow her wherever without a time limit because her control over her flame was incredible, Zassia was having a hard time.

“Keep practicing.” Sollel’s voice was strict. “As you practice, you’ll learn how to control your flame better. No one can get better at something overnight.”

Zassia nodded earnestly, willing to give all her free time to practice. “Yes, Teacher.”

“Before we reach the city of Ager, your crawling flame should be able to follow you for thirty seconds. If you’re fighting against two opponents or more, the crawling flame that I’m teaching you is ideal for blocking, trapping, and attacking. It’s a very important ability a flame sorceress should have.”

Zassia was listening intently, but her mind was wandering. Teacher says that it’s important, but no one in my village could do that, even the powerful ones.

“After you get better controlling your crawling flame, your next lesson will begin.”

Zassia nodded and accepted the bird plane that she handed to her teacher.

“Just keep practicing and don’t worry about anything,” Sollel told Zassia confidently. “I’ll think of something.”

Zassia nodded again and excused herself.

When Zassia left, Sollel sighed when she remembered the content of the letter. It was a warning for Zassia not to come to Ager because she had become a wanted person, together with two hunters and an elf.

That means I’m not part of the wanted list… Sollel sighed and went back to the elf’s house.

When Sollel sat on the chair beside Xeke, Xeke couldn’t help asking because of the panic in Lady Zassia’s voice. “What was that?”

Sollel leaned on her seat. “Just a message.”

Xeke knew it was not just a message, but he didn’t ask further. He just focused his attention on Cira, who was now opening her eyes after being unconscious for a few days.

“Y-your Highness…” These were the first words Cira spoke when she opened her eyes.

Xeke smiled and sighed at that. “I’m here too, you know.”

“I don’t care.” Cira’s head turned to look at Sollel and smiled. “I’m still alive, Your Highness. I can still help you.”

Sollel’s eyes watered. “Recover fast.”

Cira nodded. “I only need food.”

Xeke stood up. “I’ll buy you some.”

Even weak, Cira still managed to grin. “Thanks, Xeke.”

Xeke just nodded and left, while Sollel moved to sit on the bed, beside Cira. “How are you feeling?”

Cira glanced at the healer. “She’s good. I’m feeling better already.”

Sollel smiled. “That’s good to hear.”

Cira smiled before she became forlorn. “I’m sorry. I lost.”

Sollel shook her head. “It doesn’t matter to me as long as you’re alive.”

That brought back the happiness in Cira’s eyes. “He’s too strong. Good thing Xeke rescued me.”

“Xeke told me.” Sollel fixed Cira’s hair like how a mother would to her child. “Let’s talk about it after you get better. For now, rest.”

Cira nodded and closed her eyes to rest, while Sollel went back to her seat and stayed with Cira until the healer finished healing Cira.

“How is she?” Sollel asked the elf.

The female elf stood as far away from Sollel, making Sollel frown. “She’ll be good as new when she wakes up.”

Sollel got up and was about to shorten the distance between her and the female elf for better communication when the female elf swiftly moved to put a greater distance between them again.

Sollel’s frown deepened. “Is something the matter?”

The female elf shook her head in a hurry, like Sollel will snap if she said something Sollel wouldn’t like. “I just don’t want to get burned. Your flame is too fierce, lady,” The female elf said while stepping back. “Even I can feel your flame essence from where I’m standing, and it’s scorching.”

Sollel’s eyebrow raised hearing that. She had heard before about some elves who was more sensitive than the others; it looked like the female elf in front of her was one of them. “I’m not going to hurt you. You just healed my friend.”

The female elf was still doubtful while feeling the woman’s fierce and scorching flame essence. “Then why are you spreading your essence like that?”

“I’m not.”

“You are.”

“No. I’m not.”

The female elf frowned at Sollel. “You’re…really not?”

Sollel nodded.

The frown on the female elf was replaced by astonishment. What a strong flame. “You’re too strong, lady. You might be the strongest sorceress I know—and I know a lot.”

Sollel smiled and sat back in her chair to calm the female elf who’s still looking at Sollel warily. “What’s an elf doing outside the sacred forest?” she asked to lessen the tension.

The elf sat on the chair with a safe distance from Sollel. “My reason is just like any other elf who’s out of the sacred forest. I was kicked out.”

Sollel glanced at Cira and to the female elf. “You broke the rules too?”

The female elf nodded. “I don’t regret it. It made the lady I’m serving very happy.”

Sollel nodded, and when it got quiet, Sollel introduced herself to the elf as a courtesy for saving Cira’s life. “I’m El, Cira’s friend.”

“I am Elluin.” The elf slightly bowed her head. “The only healer here in Sarnau.”

“Thank you for saving my friend,” said Sollel. “May I ask how much I should pay for your services?”

Elluin shook her head. “The man sitting beside you earlier already paid for it before you arrived.”

“Oh.”

Elluin nodded. “He was very worried. Are they lovers?” Elluin asked while glancing at Cira.

“Friends,” Sollel answered.

Elluin just nodded, and silence fell on them. Thankfully, Xeke arrived with Cira’s food.

Feeling that Cira was in good hands, Sollel left Cira with Xeke. After the letter of Zassia’s grandfather, she must talk to Hakken before they entered the city of Ager.

Sollel didn’t know where Hakken was, so she just followed Grath’s essence to look for them, but along the way, she saw Hakken enter a blacksmith shop.

Sollel instantly followed Hakken and found him talking to a young dwarf. But what really caught Sollel’s attention was the quality of the weapons inside. She knew that the dwarves were known for their forging, but the quality of the weapons on display could not be forged by a simple dwarf.

A master forgeman? Sollel looked at the dwarf talking to Hakken. Too young to be a master. To be a master forgeman, one must not only have talent but also have ample experience.

“We make the best weapons here in Sarnau!” the dwarf said proudly. “Even the weapons made by the empire is no match for us anymore!” The dwarf laughed and continued, “We dwarves are known for our smithing ability, so whatever weapon you see in this shop is top quality!”

That piqued Sollel’s interest. “Your weapons can even compete with the empire?”

Hakken quickly turned his head when he heard his lady’s voice from behind him. “My lady…”

The dwarf narrowed his eyes on Sollel. “The empire’s blacksmithing is nothing but fraud. Fake! Phony!”

“That’s slander to the empire,” Sollel walked toward Hakken and stood beside him. “You can be executed.”

“Hmph!” the dwarf scoffed. “They can execute me all they want, but they could no longer hide the truth.” The dwarf clicked his tongue in annoyance. His hate toward the empire was evident. “You humans are so gullible, but that’s no surprise. Humans had been oppressing the dwarves because we know the truth! Those humans in the empire can only make those weapons because they have the blood of our queen!”

Sollel’s lips parted, startled at what she just heard. She knew how loyal dwarves were; they were the race that would never betray anyone even if it cost them their lives. For them to remember the queen they swore their fealty to after more than a century…Sollel was surprised and moved at the same time.

If she didn’t meet Cira, she would’ve gone to the Dwarven Kingdom to seek shelter before saving Gatria. But she met Cira in Beastrela, and the rest was history.

“Blood…of your queen?” Hakken asked, trying to understand what it meant.

The dwarf was about to explain further when an older dwarf entered the shop from the back to reprimand the young dwarf. “Eld! Shut your mouth!”

Eld, the young dwarf, jumped in fear and immediately shut his mouth. The old dwarf sighed and walked toward Hakken and Sollel. “Please forgive my grandson. He doesn’t know what he’s talking about.”

“But, Grandpa—”

“Silence.” The old dwarf narrowed his eyes on Eld, and Eld immediately closed his mouth in fear of his grandfather’s anger. Eld knew why his grandfather was being like this; he was just protecting him since humans would use any reason, big or small, to oppress the dwarves and get what they want from their shop for free.

Hakken cleared his throat. “I’m just here to buy new war blades because someone”—he glanced at Sollel—“melted them.”

“I didn’t mean to,” Sollel replied.

The old dwarf glanced at Sollel and frowned. “Melted?”

Hakken nodded and proudly said, “She’s a flame sorceress.”

Now the old dwarf was looking at Sollel with a stupefied expression. “And her flame melted your weapon? In an instant?”

Again, Hakken nodded proudly. “Yes. My lady is amazing, isn’t she?”

The old dwarf smiled and gestured his hands toward the war blades on display. “Please feel free to inspect them as you like. Eld, assist them.”

Hakken immediately went to check the war blades on display, while Sollel just watched the old dwarf walked toward the shop’s counter. Seeing how occupied Hakken was choosing his new war blades, Sollel subtly walked toward the counter to speak with the old dwarf.

When Sollel reached the counter, she played with the little trinket on display at the counter. “Sir, may I ask you a question?”

The old dwarf instantly showed Sollel his business smile. “Of course, young miss.”

Sollel took the fire trinket from the display and put it in her hand. “What your grandson said about your queen’s blood being used by the empire…is that true?”

The old dwarf lost his business smile. “Young miss, if you’re going to use that reason to exploit our shop—”

“Let’s say it’s true.” Sollel leaned on the counter and looked at the old dwarf. “Are you not going to save your queen?”

The old dwarf lost his hostile expression and sighed, like he had given up. “Against you humans? It’s the same as courting death.” He looked down, looking ashamed. “We’re…outnumbered.”

Dwarf procreation had always been low. Even after nearly two centuries, their numbers hadn’t grown.

Sollel took a deep breath, seeing the shame and resignation on the old dwarf’s face. “What is a master forgeman doing here in Sarnau?” Master forgemen were the Dwarven King’s closest aids. Something must have happened for them to leave their domain.

The old dwarf snapped his eye at Sollel. “H-How did…”

“Dwarves are good at forging, but—” Sollel roamed her eyes around the shop and continued, “The quality of the weapons here are top-notch and not all dwarves could forge such weapons.”

The old dwarf was ransacking his brain what to say to the woman when the flame sorceress asked a question that made him froze.

“How’s King Ruther? Is that old brawny dwarf still alive and being stubborn?”

The old dwarf’s eyes widened at Sollel’s question; bewilderment was in their depths. “H-how d-did you…know about our king’s stubborn nature?”

Sollel straightened her body and slightly pulled back her hood to show her bloodred eyes and hair. “How could I forget the blacksmith who forged my flaming war blades?”

The old dwarf was just standing there, but he lost his footing and fell to the ground when he saw those bloodred eyes and hair and heard those words. His breath became uneven, his heart thundering inside his chest, and he was sweating heavily as he immediately got back on his feet and was ready to prostrate in front of Sollel, but Sollel stopped him from doing so.

“Don’t do that,” said Sollel. “Talk like how you talked to me earlier.”

“B-b-but…b-but…”

“I want you to send a message to your king,” Sollel said in a hushed voice.

The old dwarf was still trembling in the presence of their queen. “M-message?”

Sollel nodded and picked up the small bottle made of glass with intricate and beautiful design of flame surrounding it. Without saying a word, she reached out for the knife on the display and used it to cut the tip of her finger.

When Sollel blood started dripping, she used the glass bottle to hold and secure her blood inside before her flames wrapped around her cut and healed it.

Then Sollel put the lid on the glass bottle and placed it on the counter. “Tell your king to forge me a twin war blade with my blood. I trust Ruther with the design and the quality.”

After saying that, Sollel left the counter like nothing happened and went back to Hakken who was still looking for the best war blades that suited him.

The old dwarf on the counter picked up the glass bottle with his shaky hands and carefully wrapped it in red cloth. He was scared that he might drop it, so he held it very carefully, like his life depended on it—because it did.

Erar, the old dwarf, looked at the woman wearing a red cloak in reverence. So what our spies told us is true…Queen Sollel, the Mistress of Flame, has escaped her prison.

Erar took a deep breath and carefully gripped the glass bottle in his hand. The king was right to send us in every possible route that the queen might take. I must inform him immediately! 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 28

CHAPTER 28

AFTER HAKKEN bought a top-quality war blade from the Dwarven shop, he left with Sollel. Before stepping out of the shop, Sollel glanced at Erar, who was carefully placing the glass bottle with Sollel’s blood on a Dwarven treasure box. The box was made from the strongest metal with a beautiful design. It’s one of the strongest treasure boxes the Dwarven Kingdom ever made. Only a master forgeman could own them. One piece each.

Sollel was not worried about her blood in Erar’s hand. If there were a race who would never ever betray her, that would be the Dwarven race. Even if it cost them their lives, they were the race that never turned their backs on their fealty.

Following Hakken to the street, she walked beside him toward the inn Hakken rented.

“Fortunately, they have lots of room available,” said Hakken.

Sollel smiled and teased Hakken, “Is sleeping in the same room with me that appalling?”

“No, of course not, my lady,” Hakken immediately explained himself. “It’s just inappropriate for a lady to share a room with a man.”

Sollel actually snorted. “That’s a human custom, Hakken. And I hate them.”

Hakken halted on his step. “So…I can sleep in your room?”

Sollel turned around and asked, “Do you want to?”

“Yes. Saving money is important, after all.”

“Okay.” Sollel nonchalantly gave her consent because she knew Hakken would never do anything lascivious.

Hakken smiled, hearing the consent, and continued walking beside his lady. Little by little, he knew he was earning his lady’s trust. But we’re already about to reach the city of Ager. So little time.

“My lady,” Hakken said in a serious tone. “The travel from here to the city of Ager will not be as dangerous. We can buy a horse and a wagon for safety and comfort. That said, may I ask for a permission to travel to Ager first?”

Sollel stopped walking and face Hakken. “What do you mean?”

“Lady Zassia showed me her grandfather’s message,” Hakken explained. “We shouldn’t enter Ager without a solid plan. Let me check the city first and gather information to make sure it’s safe.”

Sollel knew that Hakken was proposing a good plan, but she was reluctant. “Hakken, you’re on a wanted list too.”

Hakken smiled reassuringly. “No worries, my lady. That won’t be a problem.”

Sollel was still reluctant. “Do you really have to do this?”

“To keep you safe. Yes.”

Sollel sighed. “Be careful out there.”

That put a smile on Hakken’s lips. “I will, my lady.”

“When are you leaving?”

“Tomorrow,” Hakken answered and smiled coquettishly. “Sleeping in the same room with my lady is a very important experience.”

Sollel almost rolled her eyes. “You talk about experience, but you’re too prude.” Smiling, Sollel walked ahead of Hakken.

Hakken immediately followed. “I want to respect my lady, and of course, I don’t want to get burned.”

“Good that you know.”

Hakken shook his head and just walked beside Sollel until they reached the inn.

“Where’s Grath and Zassia?” Sollel asked when she didn’t see the two.

“Backyard. Practicing, I think.”

Sollel nodded. “That’s good. So…” Sollel glanced at Hakken. “Where’s our room?”

“Th-this way.”

Sollel silently chuckled when Hakken stuttered. Seriously, Sollel didn’t know anymore. Hakken seemed like an experienced man the way he carried himself and the way he spoke. From the battlefield to the battles in bed, Sollel had a feeling that Hakken could never be bested, but he was acting prude all the time when they’re very close with each other.

Even an inexperienced woman like me is teasing him.

When Sollel entered the room, Hakken, who was behind her, spoke. “I have to try and train my war blades to find the balance of the blade and to familiarize myself with them, so I will be in the backyard, my lady,” Hakken said hurriedly and left without waiting for Sollel’s answer.

Sollel shook her head and closed the door. After locking it, she took off her cloak, and she couldn’t help checking the cuts and wounds on her body. When she escaped her prison, her body was covered in wounds and cuts, but now her cuts were already healed, and her wounds were starting to disappear.

Sollel faced the mirror and looked at herself. Her hair and eyes were still bloodred; that means her strength hadn’t changed.

Sollel sighed at the fact that she was still weak. Remembering the message of Zassia’s grandfather, Sollel couldn’t help cursing. She was not part of the list, but part or not, she had a feeling there’s a trap waiting for her in Ager. That’s why even if she was reluctant, she let Hakken go to Ager first.

I have to be very careful. I can’t go back to prison. Not when I’m this close to Gatria.

Taking a deep breath, Sollel entered the bathroom to take a bath and wash her clothes. After bathing, she used the heat from her flame to dry her clothes. She didn’t do this before because she had spare clothes to change into, but all her clothes were on Cira’s satchel. She had to improvise.

Sollel stayed in the bathroom a little longer than she used to, waiting for her clothes to dry while expending her strength since she was using her flame to dry her clothes. But that didn’t matter to Sollel. She’d rather wait for a long time in the bathroom than to reuse dirty clothes.

After an hour of using the heat of her flame, everything had finally dried, even her cloak. Sollel was happy as she put her clothes on again and stepped out of the bathroom.

Sollel was about to place her cloak on the chair when she heard a knock from the door to her room. Sollel spread her essence to check who was outside and opened the door when she felt the familiar presence of Erar.

“Isn’t this risky?” Sollel asked after inviting Erar to her room

“Yes, but I must do this,” said Erar before he dropped to his knees and prostrated in front of Sollel. “Your Highness, it’s been so long. We are glad to see you again.”

Sollel sat on the edge of the bed and looked at Erar, who was still prostrating in front of her. This is the reason why I let him in. Dwarves had always been over the top when it came to paying respects to her.

“That’s enough.” Sollel made sure that her voice carried weight.

Master Forgeman Erar immediately raised his head. “Thank you for letting a lowly master forgeman like me to pay his respect to the queen.”

Like I was saying. Over the top. “I don’t believe you’ll come here to only pay respects.”

Erar bowed his head. “Your Highness, we dwarves have always been loyal to the queens of Yther, more so to Her Highness, Queen Sollel. When our spies in the empire heard that you’ve escaped, King Ruther immediately mobilized us, the master forgemen, to enter the cities and aid Her Highness, hoping that we could be of service. Two master forgeman remained on our king’s side, while the remaining eight were scattered throughout Azitera.”

That’s expected from that brawny stubborn Dwarven king. “Spies?”

Erar nodded. “The harpies tribe never gave up on looking for the queens of Yther, Your Highness.” Harpies were a race with birdlike bodies, but they could transform into a full human body at will. “They soared the sky every day for more than a century to look for the Yther queens and to map out the whole Azitera, looking for escape routes when the time comes.”

“The harpies…” Sollel felt like a warm hand touch her heart. “Is Queen Mesara still alive?” Mesara was the queen of the harpies when Yther was still prominent, and they pledged their allegiance to Yther and Astrid.

Erar shook his head. “She died a couple of years ago, but the princess of the harpies, Morya, shared the same belief and goals as her mother. Very soon, Queen Morya will finish mapping the Azitera and its escape routes and hidden passages.”

Sollel had no words to the harpies’ hard work. She was overwhelmed that after all these years, they remained loyal.

“We and the other tribes who still remembered the queens of Yther were just waiting for the right time. If only we’re strong enough and not outnumbered, we would’ve saved Her Highness sooner, but alas, our tribes had declined, and the humans kept hunting the other races, using them as trophies and slaves.”

Sollel clenched her fist when she heard what happened to the other races they helped and cared for before. “How about the Ytherians, Erar? What happened to my people?”

Erar looked down with sorrow. “We tried to help them escape the humans who never stopped hunting them, but we could only help a few. I’m so sorry, Your Highness. We were useless!”

Sollel shook her head. “Saving a few is already enough. Pass my deep gratitude to all the races who helped my people.”

Erar nodded. “Yes, Your Highness. But the real reason why I came here is to warn you.”

Sollel immediately became alert. “Tell me.”

“Your Highness, that horrible day, when the humans took all of you, we tried to fight them off. We could’ve won, but the humans had help. Four powerful beings trashed us and killed half of us. When we recovered, we gathered all the information we could and we learned that those beings were the same as the queens of Yther—they were also blessed by the deities.”

Sollel’s lips parted in shock. She had no idea who those being were!

“We tried looking for more information, but we couldn’t find any. That’s why I’m here—to warn Her Highness. Those beings might try to harm you now that you’re free. Her Highness must be careful.”

Sollel’s mind was working in haste to provide understanding. “These beings that you speak of, did the humans strike a deal with them?”

“We believe so, but ever since then, those four beings haven’t shown themselves. We tried looking, but nothing.”

Instead of fear, Sollel chuckled coldly. “Humans are very greedy. If those beings are like us, then what’s stopping the humans from betraying them and using that damn stone on them?”

“King Ruther arrived at the same conclusion, but Her Highness still needs to be more careful and alert. We don’t want to see our queen imprisoned again.”

Sollel nodded after hearing the sincerity and sorrow in Erar’s voice. “I will be very careful.”

Erar looked relieved. “Then I will take my leave now and report to King Ruther. I am leaving my grandson to man the shop here in Sarnau, so if Her Highness needs anything from the shop, just say the word, and it is yours.”

Sollel was beyond grateful. “Thank you.”

Erar bowed his head and was about to leave when Sollel remembered one of the most important questions.

“Erar, do you know who freed me?”

Erar halted in his tracks and was reluctant to turn around to face the queen because of the promise they made. But as loyal as the dwarves were, Erar couldn’t help turning around and answering the queen, “Y-yes, Your Highness.”

I thought so. Sollel’s assumption was right. The dwarves have been trying to free me from my moonrite prison. It’s impossible that they didn’t know who freed me.

“May I ask the name?”

Erar immediately prostrated and bowed down a couple of times, his forehead hitting the wooden floor. “I’m so sorry! I’m so sorry! I’m so sorry for my insolence, Your Highness! But I cannot disclose the person’s name. I’m so sorry, Your Highness! We made an oath. I’m so sorry! I’m so sorry!”

Sollel didn’t press Erar for her savior’s name. Of all the beings in Azitera, it was Sollel who knew how much the dwarves value promises and loyalty. “I understand, but please let me ask you another question.”

Erar, who couldn’t take the queen’s pleading, spoke. “Of…c-course, Your Highness…”

“Erar… did the Dwarven Kingdom hired that person to save me?”

Erar immediately shook his head. “That person came to us, Your Highness. We were skeptical at first, but when the undercover harpies started hearing about Her Highness’s escape from the empire’s officials they were serving, we realized that that person indeed brought you out of prison like promised.”

“Did that person ask anything in return?”

Erar nodded. “Just one, Your Highness.”

“What?”

“Keep Her Highness safe.”

Sollel’s lips parted. That person went through all that trouble to save me and keep me safe but still haven’t shown themselves…wait…haven’t they? She met five people in her travel, and those five people were now traveling with her.

Sollel crossed Zassia off the list since she was too weak. Grath’s name was also crossed since she met him as a slave. Then there’s Hakken, Cira, and Xeke. She met Hakken, the hunter, in Ashmire when she was looking for a hunter. She met Cira, the elf healer, in Beastrela when she needed healing and to recover a little. Then she met Xeke, which was a coincidence, but was it really?

Those three were all suspicious, but she’s crossing out Cira’s name on the list because she had done nothing but help her. She even got injured trying to seal the moonrite stone.

That left her with Hakken and Xeke.

Sollel narrowed her eyes. Do I have to throw a bait…to catch the fish? 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 29

CHAPTER 29

HAKKEN LEFT for the city of Ager early in the morning before Sollel even woke up. As usual, he slept on the floor, while his lady slept on the bed. Her back was on him again, which Hakken preferred because he didn’t know what would happen to him if she was facing him when he woke up.

It was one of the nights Hakken would never forget since he got to talk to his lady until they both fell asleep.

Standing outside Sarnau, Hakken looked at the sky, and when he saw a shadow flying in the clouds, he smiled and whistled. As the flying shadow descended, Hakken looked at the direction of the city of Ager and then at Sarnau before he sighed.

I’ll see you again, my lady.

Meanwhile, inside Sarnau, Xeke looked for Cira everywhere when he didn’t see her in the healer’s house. But the elf he was looking for was in the forest beside Sarnau. Cira had been camping there before the dawn broke, wrapping her essence around the moonrite stone and analyzing the power it held.

After what happened in the noble’s hill, Cira was more anxious to finish analyzing the moonrite stone. Her Highness may be powerful, but when facing a moonrite stone, she was weak…and Cira didn’t want that. For Her Highness to save the other queens and do whatever she wanted, Cira had to find a solution to Queen Sollel’s weakness.

I have to make haste. With that thought, Cira focused her attention on the stone floating in front of her. She didn’t let her worry distract her and focused all her essence in analyzing the moonrite stone, as she was the only one who could. If only the whole elven race would help her. It would’ve been quicker.

Unbeknownst to Cira, who was focused on being useful to Queen Sollel, Xeke found her in the forest and was only staring at Cira and the transparent stone floating in front of her. Seeing that Cira was too open and unguarded against attacks, Xeke sat on a tree branch to guard her from anyone or anything.

Sitting on the tree branch, watching Cira, Xeke didn’t know why he couldn’t seem to ignore and abandon the elf who caught his eyes. He had traveled far and wide, he had met so many elven races, but still, he had no idea how this adorable petite elf captured his attention.

Xeke didn’t even know what was happening to him anymore. He’s used to traveling alone because he didn’t like the inconvenience a companion might bring, but here he was, inconveniencing himself for the sake of one single “ungrateful” elf.

After worrying about her, she didn’t even look at me. Xeke sighed and shook his head. He should stay away from her and leave her alone—that would be the best course of action. But even after forcing himself, he didn’t want to move and leave the elf alone.

Xeke sighed and just leaned on the tree. I’ll just watch over her for now.

While inside Sarnau, Sollel woke up to Zassia and Grath practicing again. Zassia still had a long way to go, but Grath was already close to awakening his essence without Sollel’s help. Hakken was nowhere to be seen, so Sollel assumed that he already left for the city of Ager.

Sollel sighed and went around Sarnau. Wearing her cloak with her hood on, Sollel roamed around. There were no demi-humans on the street, but she saw a store where slaves were sold.

Demi-humans and halflings had always been the target of slavery. Sollel knew that burning the slavery den in Belrac meant nothing as a whole. Yes, they saved a few, but that was it. The main problem—which was slavery—was still rampant, and she had no time to hunt every slave trader in Azitera. And just like what Hakken said, after taking down a slave trader, another one would sprout and replace the ones they took down.

To fully get rid of them, the root should be eradicated before the branches. Wanting to know more about the slavery system and how it worked, Sollel wandered inside the slave store, pretending to be a buyer.

Sollel had to control her flame from unleashing when she saw what was inside the store. Cage after cage, each one had a creature inside, like they were on display. Not only that, but the slaves were also divided into three categories: warriors, pleasure, and toys. And each category was placed and displayed differently.

The warrior slaves were comprised of male demi-humans from different tribes—from black wolf tribe to leopard and tigers. All were wearing slave collars and glaring at Sollel as she passed. From the demi-human slaves’ perspective, all the people who entered the store were all twisted and evil. And the slaves hated them all.

“Oh! Who do we have here?” The owner of the store approached Sollel with a fake smile. The store owner believed that the customer had no money, seeing the ragged cloak the person wore. But a costumer was a costumer. “Fancy a slave?”

“How did you capture them?” Sollel asked while pointing at the warrior slaves. She spoke haughtily, making sure that her voice wouldn’t reveal her true purpose. “They seem strong, but…” Sollel raised her hand and let her flame surround it like she was playing. “I don’t want to buy a merchandise with a defect. How sure are you that when capturing them, you didn’t ruin the merchandise?”

The store owner smiled, seeing the lady’s hand wrapped in flame. A flame sorceress?! Looks like I’m wrong. I really shouldn’t judge a person by their clothes. Flame sorcerers and sorceresses were in high demand. Merchants, noble families, and kingdoms wanted them, so the store owner immediately showed his respect.

“My lady is very perceptive, but I can assure you, every slave here had been fully checked and are very healthy. I cannot deny that we sometimes damage the goods when capturing, but every damage good has already been disposed of.”

Sollel clenched her hand that was hidden in the cloak. They killed them? “Is that so?”

“Yes. If you’re looking for a warrior, I suggest you choose from the black wolf tribe,” the store owner continued. “They are very agile, strong, and sturdy. They have sharp claws that could deal severe damage to enemies. They are our best-selling warrior slaves.”

The amount of anger Sollel had to suppress to not blow up was outstanding as she listened to the store owner babble. Then her eyes landed on the pleasure slaves. The demi-humans and the halflings. Sollel was not surprised. Demi-humans and halflings were the popular preys of the slave traders because of their similarities to humans. Not only that; slave traders only had to hire a sorcerer or two to attack a demi-human settlement, and it’d be all right since demi-humans were weak to elemental magic.

Except for Grath since he was the first of his kind to wield flame.

Sollel faced the toy slaves. “What are the toy slaves for?”

“As their name suggests, someone to play with.” The store owner grinned maliciously. “They’re the useless goods we have that has no use other than to be a plaything. They have no power, no strength, nor beauty. They’re usually sold for a low price.”

Hearing the store owner, Sollel walked toward the cages for the toy slaves to get a better look. As she got closer, she realized that there was only one slave there—a teenager with obsidian hair and eyes and a long-cut scar from the middle of her forehead down to her left chin.

“From which race is she?” Sollel asked the owner while still assessing the girl inside the cage.

The store owner shrugged his shoulder. “Don’t know. I’m guessing human. I got her free from a colleague. No one wants to buy her since her appearance is just horrible.”

Looking at the girl’s obsidian eyes, Sollel asked the shop owner, “How much is she?”

The shop owner blinked at Sollel a couple of times, like he was waiting for her to say that she was just jesting, but nothing came, so the owner replied, “One gold coin is enough, my lady, but are you certain? I have other merchandise—”

Sollel provided one gold coin from her pocket and handed it to the shop owner. “I’ll take her.”

Happy that his unsaleable goods were sold, the shop owner immediately accepted the gold coin from Sollel and transferred the ownership of the girl to Sollel via a contract.

“Do you hold all their contracts?” Sollel asked like it was just something that came to mind while keeping an eye to the two mercenaries inside, guarding the shop.

The shop owner didn’t answer since it was a taboo for a slave trader to admit that they held the slaves’ contracts and just opened the cage and let the girl out. “I hope you enjoy playing with her, my lady,” the shop owner said with a happy wide smile as he pulled the girl out of the cage.

“Is your business doing better?”

“It’s great.” The owner faced Sollel and slightly bowed down. “Have a good day, my lady.”

Sollel held the girl’s hand and turned around. “Yes. Have a good day too.” Sollel wanted nothing more than to burn the shop owner and his mercenaries alive, but if she did, could the slaves escape and leave town? Not only that; humans in Sarnau would persecute these demi-humans and halflings, and they might be blamed for the shop owner’s death.

“I’ll be back,” said Sollel before leaving the store. And that was a promise.

While on the street, Sollel sighed deeply before glancing at the teenage girl, maybe twelve years old, walking beside her. Why did I buy her anyway? Even Sollel had no answer to that. It was a sudden decision. Just an impulse. Was it her scar? Or her obsidian eyes that were filled with rage when I looked at her? Maybe because Sollel had felt it and she experienced being caged.

An impulse decision that might bring the Mistress of Flame luck or misfortune. Only time will tell.

♕♕♕

“WHAT’S your name?” Sollel asked the girl when they reached the inn and entered her room.

The girl remained silent.

“Where are you from?”

No reaction.

“How old are you?”

Nothing.

Sollel sighed and willed the slave collar to open. Since she was the one who held her contract, it immediately opened. “There. You’re free.” Sollel took the collar off the girl’s neck. “I’m not going to enslave you.”

The girl raised her head at Sollel, her eyes doubtful. “Why…would you do that?”

Sollel was a little taken aback when she heard the girl talk using the old language. Either she’s like Zassia ,or she’s from a long-lived race. Sollel concluded before answering the girl with a shrug, “I’m not into slavery.”

“Why…did you buy me then?”

Sollel answered honestly, “I saw myself in you…I think.”

The girl finally showed a reaction. A frown. “You…were a slave too?”

“Something like that,” Sollel answered vaguely as she remembered her prison life. Unlike the slaves, a slave collar didn’t work on her for some reason. Maybe because she was blessed by the deities. Who knows.

The girl looked at Sollel like she was inspecting Sollel before she said, “I want to stay with you. You seem strong.” The girl took the slave collar from Sollel and put it on her neck herself. “Even if you freed me here, I have nowhere to go, and I might be captured again and returned to the slave market. I know because I escaped a couple of times already and nothing changes, free or not.”

Sollel stared at the girl. “You seem like a strong girl.”

The girl shrugged. “I have to be, or else I won’t get my revenge.”

“Revenge on whom?”

“I don’t know.” The girl gritted her teeth like she was frustrated that she didn’t know. “I just have this strong feeling of revenge. I don’t even remember my name, let alone the reason why I want vengeance.”

Sollel remained calm even though she was curious. “You don’t remember your name?”

“I don’t remember anything,” the girl responded, clenching her fists. “My name, my age, my race, where I came from, and why I’m here…”

As Sollel contemplated if she would trust the girl’s words or not, a commotion was happening in the city of Ager, specifically in the palace of the Kingdom of Treterra. All because of an imperial warlord’s sudden visit.

A visit that would affect the Mistress of Flame and her companion as they would go forward. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 30

CHAPTER 30

PALACE, KINGDOM OF TRETERRA, CITY OF AGER

KING MAXIMILIAN proudly sat on his throne room, facing his sudden visitor, but the warlord didn’t even bow his head to show his respect, enraging the king in secret. But the king didn’t show his exasperation toward the warlord’s attitude. He was told that the warlord was a savage and barbaric warrior. Must be why the warlord didn’t have manners.

Honestly, the Kingdom of Treterra would never allow a sudden visit, but it was a warlord of the empire. And whether the Kingdom of Treterra liked it or not, the Infernal Empire was more powerful than them. From their weapons to their soldiers, they were more superior. The only reason the empire didn’t want to seize the Kingdom of Treterra was because of the barren lands. Crossing that would be hellish for the soldiers. If not for that, the new emperor would’ve captured Treterra by now like how he captured the other small kingdoms.

The four largest kingdoms of Azitera were not as friendly as before. As their leader changed and their kingdom flourished, they became hostile with one another, especially the Infernal Empire and the Kingdom of Treterra, which had the largest lands in Azitera. Caelum Kingdom could care less about the struggle for land since they’re up in the sky, same with Nayale Archipelago. And in terms of strength, the Infernal Empire would trample the Kingdom of Treterra anytime, and the kingdom knew it. Maybe if their land didn’t become barren, they might stand a chance.

Holding his head high, King Maximilian spoke coldly and detached to show his authority. “May I know the purpose of your visit, warlord?”

The warlord answered with the same tone, “I’m here for the Mistress of Flame. The emperor asked me to bring her back.”

King Maximilian hid his displeasure. Now that the warlord was here, he couldn’t use the Mistress of Flame to take advantage on the Infernal Empire. Curse you, Gabrien! he thought. “As of the moment, we do not have the Mistress of Flame, but we do have some information about her.”

“Oh?” The corner of the warlord’s lips curled up. “Pray tell.”

King Maximilian didn’t immediately answer. “Warlord, important information has a price. What are you willing to offer?”

The warlord smiled, and it was a cunning and wicked one. “How about I offer not to destroy your city? A good price if I say so myself.”

The king became livid of the warlord’s arrogance. “Don’t look down on us!” King Maximilian gritted his teeth, his hands trembling with so much fury. “We are not a powerless nation. Our soldiers are well trained and could easily outnumber you!”

“Want me to prove you wrong?” The warlord drew one of his war blades from his back. The moment his blade was unsheathed, flame engulfed it, and everyone in the throne room felt the scorching heat of the flaming sword.

Everyone present knew that one slash with the warlord’s blade was enough for their bodies to combust in flames. His weapon and his savagery in battle were known far and wide, and that’s the reason he was a feared warlord, renowned in the Infernal Empire.

If only the general was here, he could definitely fight the warlord. This was what everyone was thinking while feeling the heat of the warlord’s flaming sword. But the general was still in Castetava, checking on the nobles and fixing the mess the Mistress of Flame left behind.

King Maximilian was livid, glaring at the arrogant warlord who dared to draw his weapon in his presence. “How dare you!” King Maximilian bellowed. “This is my kingdom! My throne! Show some respect, you barbarian!”

But the warlord was not fazed by the king’s anger. “My respect is not freely given, Your Highness. “ The sarcasm in the warlord’s voice as he said Your Highness enraged everyone in the room. It sounded condescending, like he was mocking the king. “They’re earned.”

King Maximilian slammed his fist on his chair and stood angrily. “You are in my territory, warlord! I can kill you anytime I want so mind your barbaric manners!”

“Do as you wish, but I will never pay for the information you have.” The warlord said nonchalantly. Unafraid of the threat even though it was his first time coming to Treterra. “But if you keep the information from me, the empire will take Belrac, with me as their commander. How’s that for an offer, Your Highness ?”

King Maximilian gritted his teeth in so much anger, but he couldn’t do anything. Belrac was their last surviving city that was still not devoured by the dead soil. If the Infernal Empire took it from them, they had no chance of retaliating because of the barren land separating them. Their soldiers would never reach Belrac in time.

“Mongrel!” King Maximilian hissed at the warlord.

The warlord shrugged as he rested his flaming blade on his shoulder. And it was a chilling sight to behold for everyone. Usually, flaming swords were always kept away from the wielder’s body because it might burn them, but the warlord’s flaming sword was different. It didn’t burn him; instead the flame became even brighter and fiercer like it was excited to fight.

“What kind of flaming sword is that?” one noble asked.

“It felt sinister.” Another one spoke.

“Just as wicked and cunning as the wielder,” Another noble chimed in.

King Maximilian, on the other hand, was fuming mad because he didn’t have any choice. The kingdom’s renowned general was not present, and even if he ordered his sorcerers to fight, winning would cause a lot of bloodshed, and the damn warlord would surely never let anyone alive, from the nobles to the minister present. They would be slaughtered before his army could take down the barbaric warlord.

To save the ministers, the nobles, and himself, the king grudgingly resigned and gave in. “The Mistress of Flame is traveling to the city of Ager, as you probably know.”

“Your Highness!” Hearing the king speak about the Mistress of Flame, the nobles and the ministers were outraged because they knew the king gave in.

While the warlord smiled and sheathed his sword. “And?”

“I issued a wanted list and a gag order to my citizens to trap the Mistress of Flame inside the city once she entered.” The king was grinding his teeth as he spoke. It was against his will, and he was losing face by doing so. “She’s with two hunters—a twin-blade wielder and a dagger wielder—and a female elf. The Mistress of Flame carries a staff with a fire stone and looks like she already recovered her strength. She burned a lot of my armies, and we want her punished for that.”

The warlord smiled like the information the king told him was somewhat humorous. “Are you certain that the Mistress of Flame carries a staff? When she escaped the empire, she had none.”

“We are certain.” The king was annoyed that the barbaric warlord was doubting the information they were freely giving. “They even burned the forest in Castetava.”

The warlord nodded. “And how do you plan to trap her?”

The king’s eyebrow furrowed. “It’s confidential, warlord.”

“I want in,” the warlord said, not minding the king’s words. “I will capture her and drag her back to the empire.”

“I can permit you to capture her, but I cannot permit you to cooperate with us,” the king stubbornly replied.

“Even if I asked the empire to pay for your cooperation?” The warlord dangled the carrot in front of the king to tempt him, knowing how greedy the king was when it came to money. “I want the Mistress of Flame by any means.”

“How much are you willing to pay?” the king asked. When it came to money, he would never be bested.

“How much are you asking?” the warlord asked back.

“Five hundred gold coins.”

“Deal.” There was no hesitation in the warlord’s voice, and his confidence eased the king’s doubt, especially when the warlord immediately provided half of the payment and gave it to one of the king’s ministers. “Now what’s your plan?”

Seeing the warlord honoring the deal, the king’s tongue became smooth. “As of now, we are pulling back our moonrite stone, hiding it for the meantime until the Mistress of Flame entered the city.”

“You’ll trap her inside,” the warlord concluded.

The king nodded. “My general will be coming home tomorrow with his gryphon. However powerful the Mistress of Flame had become, she’s no match against the moonrite stone and my soldiers.”

The warlord nodded. “I have a moonrite stone with me as well. We have to make sure she will be captured this time. If she escaped, she would surely go to the Mistress of Nature’s prison. Don’t let your guards down just because you have a moonrite stone. The Mistress of Flame escaped her moonrite prison after all.”

The king nodded. “No one will let their guards down. The hallowed valley was foolproof.”

“Hallowed valley…” The warlord became curious. “Is that where your prisoner is being held?”

The king nodded. “It has been fortified. Moonrite stone and soldiers everywhere.”

The warlord nodded. “Good. I will take my leave now. I’m staying in the city of Ager’s finest inn if you need anything.”

The king nodded and watched the warlord leave the throne room. And when the warlord was finally gone, the king let out a relieved breath. “With the warlord’s help and the empire’s payment, we are surely at an advantage.”

The head of the minister nodded. “With the Mistress of Flame taken care of, we won’t have to worry about our prisoner, and we can focus on cultivating our land to prosperity once again.”

The king nodded. “How’s our espionage team? Any report?”

The head of the minister stepped forward and spoke to report. “The Mistress of Flame and her companions are still in the town of Sarnau, but they’re still clueless of what awaits them here in the city.”

King Maximilian grinned wickedly. “Make sure it stays that way.”

“Yes, Your Highness. This will be our win for sure,” the head of the prime minister said with confidence, earning a triumphant smile from the king.

♕♕♕

MEANWHILE, in Sarnau, Cira finally went back inside the town to meet her highness, while Xeke followed her, letting the spies he sensed in the forest think that he didn’t notice them. He didn’t move recklessly and just followed the most ungrateful elf he ever met.

Cira was quick on her feet when Xeke just appeared out of thin air in front of her, and she was about to collide with him. “Can you stop doing that?!” Cira glared at Xeke. “Stop appearing out of thin air!”

Xeke just smiled and walked beside Cira. “You haven’t eaten since yesterday. Let’s eat.”

Cira narrowed her eyes on Xeke. “How did you know? You’re not stalking me, are you?”

Xeke pulled a hurt face. “That’s some accusation. For your information, I was just looking out for you.”

Cira scoffed. “I can look out for myself just fine. Just admit that you’re stalking me.”

“If I was,” Xeke replied, looking away, “it’s not like I’m going to do bad things to you.”

“I’ll shoot you before you can even do anything to me.” Cira glared at Xeke before she continued walking. “Anyway”—Cira’s voice changed from harsh to sweet—“thanks for saving me back in the noble’s hill. I owe you one.”

Xeke sighed. “So you’re not an ungrateful elf after all.”

Cira went back to glaring at Xeke again. “You’re annoying. If not for your useful dagger, I’ll hate you.”

Xeke smiled before he became serious. “What’s with the stone you’d been studying whole day and night?”

“None of your concern.” Cira didn’t want to trust just anyone when it comes to the stone.

“Come on, maybe I can help.”

Cira didn’t answer and just continued walking, while Xeke just stared at Cira’s back, thinking why Cira didn’t want his help. Xeke knew he could help, so he offered his assistance, inconveniencing himself again for one single elf, but that elf declined.

Xeke sighed and mumbled, “Why am I even doing this?” before following Cira to the inn.

♕♕♕

AT THE INN’S TAVERN, SOLLEL was feeding the little girl she bought in the slave store when Cira entered with a wide smile for Her Highness but immediately lost it when she saw the girl. “Who’s she?”

“A slave I bought,” Sollel answered in a matter-of-fact voice.

Cira immediately became a nagging mother to Sollel after what she just heard. “Your Highness! How could you buy someone from a slave store?” Cira was half-shouting, half-whispering so the girl wouldn’t hear them. “Who knows where that girl came from?”

Sollel glanced at the girl heartily eating her meal. “She has no memories…”

Cira sighed, seeing the compassion in Queen Sollel’s eyes. “You really like helping others, don’t you, Your Highness?”

“Old habits.” Sollel sighed. “I don’t think she’s human.”

Cira narrowed her eyes on the girl, and her eyes could sense that the queen was right. “Yeah. She’s not.”

Sollel breathed in relief. “Then it’s all good. Let’s help her until she regains her memories.”

“Would you abandon her if she was human?” Xeke, who heard the whole conversation, asked.

And Sollel answered mercilessly, “Yes. I will.”

Xeke was too stunned at Sollel’s answer that he froze. Cira didn’t mind and continued asking Her Highness, “When are we leaving for Ager?”

“I’m waiting for Hakken’s information,” Sollel answered. “He left before us to make sure our safety. By the way, Cira, can we buy a wagon and a horse?”

“Sure.” Cira’s answer was immediate. “I have lots of money after all.” She grinned and turned to Xeke, giving him money. “Do me a favor and look for a horse and a wagon. Thank you!”

Looking at the money in his hand, Xeke just sighed, but before he left, he told Cira, “Don’t go into the forest alone. There are spies everywhere.”

Cira nodded and whispered to Xeke, “I’m aware. Don’t worry about me.”

Xeke nodded and left the inn, while Cira went to sit on the table and ordered food. Seeing Cira heartily eating like the girl beside her, Sollel smiled and returned to her seat again to finish her tea.

While outside the inn, Xeke, who was walking toward the town stables, saw a falcon flew toward him. Xeke calmly raised his arm where the falcon landed.

Xeke softly cradled the falcon when he saw a letter tied to its feet before he let it fly again. Only when the falcon was gone did Xeke opened the letter and read the message.

X,

Don’t forget our plan. I don’t care whom you have to betray and lied to. Make it work.

—H. A.

Reading the message, he crumpled it in his hand and sighed before he continued walking toward the town stables as if nothing happened…as if he was not about to betray someone. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 31

CHAPTER 31

HAKKEN PROMISED to send Sollel a message after arriving in the city of Ager, and after four days in Sarnau, a message strapped on a needletail bird arrived. It was from Hakken.

My lady,

Ager is very dangerous right now. There’s a wanted poster in the city with our faces on it, and soldiers had been chasing me nonstop since I arrived. My lady is not part of the wanted list though, but still, be careful. I have a bad feeling about this. I’m now in hiding, so don’t look for me when you arrive. I will look for you instead. Be careful, my lady. I heard a warlord from the empire arrived days ago.

—Hakken

Sollel burned the letter after reading it and sighed. A trap, huh? she thought. Sollel was not surprised, but she was worried of Zassia. By now she realized that the Kingdom of Treterra had thought that Zassia was the Mistress of Flame. It was because Sollel was hiding in the forest when everyone was fighting on the noble’s hill.

Sollel thought that it might be a blessing in disguise that she was in the forest, but realizing that Zassia was now in trouble because of her, she couldn’t call it a blessing anymore.

Sollel looked outside the window while thinking. It was already dark outside, and the moon was high up in the sky. The whole town looked serene from where she was looking, but Sollel knew it wasn’t. Demi-humans and halflings were being exploited and enslaved, most races were going extinct, and some were in hiding, afraid of being hunted to extinction by humans whose greed were insatiable.

Sollel’s fist clenched tightly. How long are they going to hurt others for their greed and convenience?!

Staring at the sky with her clenched hand and tightened jaw, Sollel couldn’t help recalling the deities who blessed them and the promise they had made to them.

I’m sorry for breaking our promise. I wanted to use the moonrite stone for everything that has happened, but that’ll be an excuse. It was our fault for letting our guards down and trusting the humans. But I will make it right. I will make everything right again.

The deities already told them before that they would not intervene whatever would happen in Azitera; they left all the responsibility to Yther’s queens. It was their duty to turn everything back to the time when everyone was living in harmony since it was partly their fault that the harmony was disrupted.

After I burned those greedy humans, of course. Sollel took a deep breath and looked at her bed where Naya was sleeping.

To avoid blessing Naya with her flame, Sollel asked Cira to name Naya since she couldn’t remember her own name, and Cira picked the name Naya. As much as possible, Sollel didn’t want to bless a stranger. She blessed Zassia because of her belief, and she accidentally blessed Grath, but there was no regret since he was loyal. But blessing someone she didn’t even know…she would not do it again.

Sollel’s head turned to the door when it opened and saw Cira enter.

“Why are you still awake, Your Highness?” Cira asked and placed the lamp she was carrying on the table in the corner of the room.

“I received a message from Hakken.” Sollel sat on the edge of her bed, the one Naya was occupying. “It’s dangerous in Ager. Everyone, except me and Naya, are on the wanted list. He said soldiers had been chasing him ever since he arrived and all your faces are posted on the wanted list.”

Cira sat on her own bed and sighed. “Do we really have to go to Ager?”

Sollel nodded. “I have to know where they are hiding Gatria. All I can feel is she’s all over Ager. If she was not in the city, we’ll leave immediately.”

Sollel couldn’t pinpoint Gatria’s presence. All she knew was that she was all over Ager and the nearby places. Maybe because of Gatria’s blood on the soil that Sollel was having a hard time identifying Gatria’s exact location.

“Then we’ll leave for Ager tomorrow?”

Sollel nodded at Cira. “But before that, we have to make some plans. We can’t just storm in. It’s a trap, after all.”

Cira immediately became serious. “What do you have in mind, Your Highness?”

Sollel opened her mouth and explained to Cira her detailed plan. Of all her companions, it was Cira whom she trusted the most and the only companion who knew about her weakness to the moonrite stone.

Cira nodded after hearing Sollel’s plan. “I’m sure they would take the bait.”

Sollel nodded back. “But first, I have to secure an identification. Hakken is not with us. I can’t lie my way in anymore.”

“Leave it to me,” Cira said and even puffed her chest. “I’ll take care of it first thing in the morning. I heard that there’s some sketchy town officials here in Sarnau.”

Sollel smiled at Cira. “Thank you, Cira. I don’t know where will I be without your help.”

Cira beamed at Sollel like she was the happiest elf in Azitera. “My pleasure, Your Highness! Helping you is my first priority.”

Sollel’s smile widened. “How about Xeke? Is he part of your priority? He’d been helping you a lot.”

Cira pouted like she was against it. “It’s not that I dislike him. It’s just that…I was kicked out of the sacred forest partly because of a man, so I’m not really looking for another trouble.”

Cira seldom mentioned her life in the sacred forest before she was kicked out, so Sollel was intrigued. “What did you do exactly?”

Cira shrugged and lay on her bed. “I don’t want to get married yet because I have so much research to do, so many goals to achieve,” Cira said as she stared at the ceiling. “But this man was forcing me to. I told him again and again that there’s more to life than getting married, but he just won’t listen. So I broke one of our taboos and was kicked out after.”

“I’m curious…” Sollel drawled as she studied Cira’s expression. “You said you went to a taboo place…that’s why you were kicked out. What and where is that place exactly? Elves have a gentle nature and are very forgiving, so for them to kick you out…”

Cira was silent for a long while before she finally answered, “I went to Yther.”

Sollel froze, her eyes and lips wide in shock.

“It was a taboo place for all the sacred-forest residents.” A sad smile appeared on Cira’s lips. “But it was the center of my research. My grandmother, my mother—they both believed that the Yther queens are just out there, hidden.” Cira sighed and whispered, “I just want to find them…to find you…”

Sollel’s face softened. “Cira…”

Cira glanced at Sollel and smiled. “I’m glad I found you, Your Highness. You are my hope—the hope of all the elven race.”

It was a heavy burden and a huge responsibility to be someone’s hope, but Sollel accepted it gladly. “How’s the sacred forest? For you to come look for me, I assumed the forest is not doing well?”

Cira nodded. “The sacred forest had been a mess for a couple of decades now. Landslides…and trees dying. Not only that. Humans are also trying to hunt us down and enslave us for our healing abilities. If not for us, the elven warriors, we would’ve been slaves by now.” Cira’s face darkened. “Humans are trying to expand their territory, and they’re eyeing the sacred forest.”

“Which kingdom?”

“The empire.” Cira took a deep breath and sighed. “Though to get to us, they have to conquer the Dwarven Kingdom first, and I don’t think that’s going well. The Dwarven Kingdom will not be conquered just like that.”

Sollel understood why the Elven Kingdom had not been conquered yet, and it’s because of the Dwarven Kingdom. They might be small in numbers and in stature, but the dwarves could make an indestructible defense.

“What did the dwarves do to defend themselves?”

“Their king built a wall on the border, protecting them and us.” Cira sounded relieved.

Sollel smiled, feeling proud of the dwarves’ deeds. “You can always count on the dwarves to make a solid defense.”

Cira nodded. “Indeed. But there are still a number of humans who could enter the forest, looking for weak elves, and some imperial soldiers scouting the forest. I don’t know how they’re bypassing the dwarves, but it has been our problem ever since. Our king already spoke to the Dwarven king, and they are working together to protect their territory together.”

Sollel was happy to hear the Dwarven and Elves alliance. “I’m happy to hear that.”

Cira nodded and became silent. After a while, she spoke quietly. “Your Highness, may I ask you a question?”

“Go ahead.”

“What…” Cira took a deep breath, bracing herself. “What exactly did the empire do to you when they imprisoned you?”

It was a bitter memory for Sollel, one that could enrage her in a matter of seconds, but for Cira, she calmly answered, “I was weak due to the moonrite stone. My memory was hazy, and I kept losing consciousness, but I remember a few. At first, they tried to defile me.”

Cira gasped in horror and anger boiled inside her.

“But they couldn’t,” Sollel continued, calming Cira down. “My flame is protecting my body. The empire wanted to have an heir that would inherit my power. For that to happen, they sent the crown prince to my cell. But…unfortunately for them, their prince left my cell burnt and dead. You see, my flame is very protective of me. Unless I’ve given my consent, no one can defile and enter my body. It’s the same as the other queens.

“After that, because of what happened to their crown prince, they started beating me through lashes and other weapons as punishment and to take out their anger. I don’t know how long did I experience the beating since I kept losing consciousness, but I think it stopped when a new emperor was crowned. And with a new leader, they started cutting me to draw blood—lots of it. Like Gatria, my blood was used to strengthen their weapons. My blood was poured on the wall to strengthen their fortress. My blood was used to for money and prestige while I was chained to the wall inside the moonrite prison.”

Cira was shell-shocked listening to Sollel.

“So many years passed, I already lost my sense of time. I wanted to end my suffering, but I didn’t want to take my own life. The betrayal, the rage inside me, and the vengeance I swore to myself were the only things that kept me alive and going. And then…out of nowhere, someone came and took me out of that hell. I don’t know who this person is, but I owed that person a lot. My memory was hazy. I couldn’t even remember my savior’s voice. How I wish that person is with me today.”

Silence fell the room after Sollel shared her story. Cira was still gaping as rage built up inside her, while Sollel was looking at the lamp, with no emotion on her face. Aside from the two, there was Naya who was sleeping on her side, her back on Sollel, and her eyes opened, listening to Sollel’s story.

“We should sleep.” Sollel broke the silence and lay beside Naya. “We have an early day tomorrow.”

Cira nodded and turned her back on Sollel to hide the tears falling from her eyes. She couldn’t imagine the suffering Her Highness had been through for nearly two centuries. All she could do for Queen Sollel was to help her with everything she got.

While Cira was crying, Sollel was fixing the blanket so Naya wouldn’t feel the cold before she closed her eyes to sleep.

♕♕♕

IN THE EMPIRE, in front of the emperor was five people—five powerful people under the empire known as the Wraiths. They were the empire’s powerful assassins and executioners. It was said that one could only see them when they’re on their deathbed.

And at that moment, the five members of the Wraith received an order from the emperor.

But instead of execution order, it was a capture order.

“I beg your pardon, Your Majesty, but why capture the woman?” Drandev, a dual-sword wielder of the Wraiths, asked the emperor with his head lowered.

“I, too, have the same question, Your Majesty,” said the only woman member of the Wraith, Lura Valweyn. She was an elf and an outstanding warrior and healer. “We only handle execution.”

“This one is different,” said Emperor Gabrien. “She has more value alive than dead.”

The next to raise a question was the Wraith’s high flame sorcerer Radus. “If it was to capture, why not the general, Your Majesty?”

Emperor Gabrien’s face darkened. “Unfortunately, they’re having a hard time tracking down the escapee. According to the spy I sent to track the escapee down, the escapee is now in Sarnau, going to Ager. I want her captured before she reached the city of Ager’s gate.”

Then Emperor Gabrien handed down a sketch of a woman to the member of Wraiths. “This is what she looked like. My assumption is that she must be wearing something to cover her hair and eyes. That said, be wary and vigilant to everyone wearing a cloak and a hood. I want her back in prison in no time. I’m counting on you five to deliver her to me. But be careful, that woman’s flame can devour any living.”

“Yes, Your Majesty!” the five members of the Wraiths answered in unison with their heads lowered and their tone filled with loyalty and confidence that they will not disappoint His Majesty, Emperor Gabrien.

After leaving the throne room, the five members of the Wraith walked side by side.

“Our target is a flame sorceress,” said Drandev and glanced at Radus. “Can you win against her?”

Radus smirked cockily. “No one can escape my flame. My flame is one of the strongest in Azitera.”

The water sorcerer of the Wraith, Oxar, spoke too with a condescending tone. “With me and Radus, that flame sorceress is no match for us.” Oxar had defeated countless flame sorcerers, and he was undefeated.

The wind sorcerer of the Wraith, Onyll, nodded. “With us five, there is no escape for her.” Onyll was one of the highest wind sorcerers in all of Azitera; when it comes to aerial battle, no one could best him, and that made him confident.

“No worries.” Lura had a smile while walking with seductive gait. “If ever she fought back, I will heal all of you. I was the best healer of the sacred forest after all.”

Everyone smiled with a hint of smirks because they all knew that no one could best them…not even the mystical beings blessed by deities. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 32

CHAPTER 32

SOLLEL’S group set out for the city of Ager early in the morning. Sollel’s fake identity as El was ready, so as their wagon. Grath was the one controlling the horses, while Xeke had been on standby just in case Grath would get tired and need to rest. Inside the wagon, there were Sollel, Cira, Zassia, and Naya.

Cira was scribbling something on her book, while Zassia was cleaning her staff. Naya was sleeping close to Sollel, her head using Sollel’s lap as her pillow. She looked like a tamed cat, purring in her sleep. She looked really comfortable next to Sollel, her master.

The road to Ager was not as taxing as the route they took from Belrac to Sarnau where they had to cross the barren island. Maybe because Sarnau was close to Ager, the road was wide, and they could see here and there.

And everywhere, Sollel could feel Gatria.

Her blood. Sollel clenched her first. To combat the spreading barren land due to Gatria’s resentment, they used her blood. Did the kingdom know that it was Gatria killing their soil? If they knew and they didn’t set her free, then they’re more moronic than I thought.

After a whole day of traveling, during their first night outside, Grath and Xeke chose to camp just meters away from the road to be safe. The two slept outside, while the women stayed on the wagon.

“Zassia, are you sure about this?” Sollel asked Zassia after Zassia prayed to the Mistress of Flame, which was Sollel. But Sollel was getting used to Zassia calling her name while praying. “It will put you in danger.”

Naya stirred in her sleep and made an adorable groaning sound, so Sollel caressed her hair to calm her down while waiting for Zassia’s answer.

“I’m certain, Teacher.” Zassia’s face was filled with determination. “I don’t care if I was on the wanted list. When I helped everyone in the noble’s hill, I know something like this will happen, and I’m ready. I will not abandon teacher.”

Zassia was always pure and straightforward. “Zassia, if you did this, you might not be able to live with your grandfather in Ager.”

Zassia looked at Sollel straight in the eyes, honesty and loyalty shone in their depths. “Teacher, please let me stay by your side and accompany you in your journey. I still have so much to learn from you. Please.” Zassia bowed her head. “Grant my humble request.”

“And your grandfather?”

“I’ll visit him and explain,” Zassia said then raised her head. “Please, Teacher?”

There’s no turning back anyway. After what happened in the noble’s hill, Zassia was already on the radar. “Come out of this one unscathed and I will grant your request. Traveling with me is dangerous, Zassia, so to stay alive and not hold me back, you have to be strong yourself. I will not always be there to protect you, so you should train harder to be able to stand for yourself and protect yourself.”

Zassia nodded earnestly, and then she excused herself and stepped out from the wagon to train her flame again.

When Zassia left the wagon and Cira was deep in her slumber, Naya opened her eyes and sat straight, facing Sollel.

“Master, I have a question.”

Sollel grimaced at the word master . “Naya, how many times do I have to tell you not to call me that?”

Naya pouted immediately. “I am not calling you lady or miss. I don’t like it.”

Sollel sighed softly. “Call me whatever you like, just not master.”

Naya didn’t even think about what to call her; she immediately smiled and said, “Can I call you Mamma then?”

Sollel maybe looked young coming from a long-lived race, but she was definitely not. So to be called mamma didn’t really bother her.

“Whatever you want, Naya.” Sollel wrapped the blanket around Naya’s body. “We’re outside, and it’s cold.”

“Hmm…” Naya wrapped the blanket around her tightly and looked up at Sollel. “Mamma, I have a question.”

“What is it?”

“Are you planning to abandon me in Ager?”

Sollel’s eyes widened at that. “What would you say that?”

Naya shrugged and answered in a matter-of-fact voice, “I’m weak, and I have no use. I was awake last night when you and Lady Cira were talking. I heard your plan, and reviewing it now, I know I will only slow you down. So if you’re planning to leave me in Ager, I don’t mind. Just sell me to a slave shop owner. You bought me when no one wanted me. You fed me and clothed me and let me sleep beside you. It’s more than enough.”

Sollel sighed while listening to Naya speak like an adult. Her voice did not quiver even when she looked like she was about to cry. “Naya, as you said, I bought you, and I’m not going to abandon you. If you listened to my plan, then you know that was never my intention.”

Naya looked down. “But I’m going to slow you down.”

“Yeah. I know.”

“But you said to Lady Zassia not to slow you down—”

“Zassia is different from you, Naya,” Sollel explained. “She’s my student and a flame sorceress. She needs to grow to be able to wield her flame perfectly. I can cuddle her the way I cuddle you. You’re barely a teen. You’re still too young.”

Naya blinked at Sollel, her eyes shining in deep veneration and happiness. “Really? Y-you’re not going to throw me away?”

Sollel nodded. “And I hate slave traders, so why would I sell you back to them? I didn’t burn down the slave store in Sarnau for nothing.”

Naya’s awed looked was replaced by a happy grin as she launched herself at Sollel and wrapped her arms around Sollel’s waist. “Thank you, Mamma!”

Sollel smiled and caressed Naya’s hair. “You should sleep more. It will be hot tomorrow, so you won’t be able to rest.”

Naya nodded and eagerly lay on the wagon, her head on Sollel’s lap.

And seeing Naya closing her eyes to sleep, Sollel took a controlled breath. She knew Naya would be a drag, but she just couldn’t leave the girl. She was weak and had no means to protect herself. She was too vulnerable in this dangerous world.

Should I teach her how to wield a sword to protect herself? Sollel smiled at that. If Gatria was here, she would gladly take on the responsibility of teaching Naya how to wield a sword. But first, I have to buy her a sword that would suit her stature.

Sollel closed her eyes and pretended to be asleep. Her body already lost its ability to tell time after being imprisoned for nearly two centuries; thus, she didn’t get sleepy at night.

With her eyes closed, she could hear Grath snoring, Xeke moving a lot, and Zassia practicing her flame.

And then, she felt another unfamiliar presence, snapping her eyes awake.

Slowly, she carefully laid Naya’s head on the wagon and stepped out, looking around as she did. Her eyes were sharp as she examined the whole area. But nothing.

“Teacher—”

“In the wagon. Now,” Sollel ordered Zassia in a hurry, afraid that the presence might attack them.

As Zassia entered the wagon, careful not to wake the two inside, Sollel felt the presence again. It was overwhelming but familiar. And it’s coming from above her!

Hurriedly looking up, her flame ready to burn and devour, she saw a gryphon flying around them like it was doing a surveillance.

With gritted teeth, Sollel waited with bated breath for the gryphon to fly down, but it didn’t. It continued circling down that Sollel wished she had her full strength back. She could have summoned her flaming wings and fly, but she was still too weak.

Sollel squinted her eyes to see the gryphon clearly, and her lips parted open in worry when she saw that the gryphon had a mount. Someone was riding the gryphon.

“Who is…that?” Someone from the empire or the kingdom?

But before Sollel could find out, the gryphon flew away, and Sollel watched it until it disappeared from her sight.

Taking a deep breath, Sollel clenched her fist and stared at where the gryphon flew. It’s the direction toward Ager.

And that’s when Sollel remembered Hakken’s letter…

A warlord from the empire is in the city. Is that him? Sollel thought. The presence was overwhelming that she was sure that whoever was riding that gryphon was an experienced and dangerous warrior.

Sollel let out a relieved breath when the presence completely disappeared. She didn’t know why it was circling them, but Sollel had a feeling that the person riding the gryphon didn’t do it for kicks.

Just as when Sollel was about to get back to the wagon, he saw Xeke awake, looking up at the sky, while Zassia was stepping out of the wagon, clutching her staff.

“Wh-who was that?” Zassia might not feel the immense presence, but the little presence she felt was enough warning to her.

Xeke answered, “A powerful warrior.”

Sollel glanced at the sky and then at Xeke. “Do you have any idea?”

Xeke shook his head.

“It’s heading to Ager,” Sollel informed the two.

Zassia gaped. “Are we still…continuing the plan?”

Sollel nodded without hesitation. “That’s the only thing we can do. But if you want to back out, please tell me now, Zassia.”

Zassia fervently shook her head. “No, Teacher. Let’s continue the plan.”

Xeke turned to Sollel. “Does your hunter know about the plan?”

“No,” Sollel answered. “I don’t want to drag Hakken into this. He’s already in too much trouble because of me. I don’t want to add more trouble for him.”

Xeke stared at her for a couple of seconds before he said, “I’m pretty sure he wouldn’t mind. He liked you too much.”

Sollel didn’t answer and urged Zassia to stop training and rest.

The next morning, The next morning, Sollel’s group was back on the road, traveling to the city of Ager, and there were two pouting inside the wagon: Naya who kept complaining about the heat and Cira who disliked Naya calling Sollel her mamma .

“I want to call you Mamma too!”

Cira exclaimed, but when Sollel replied no, Cira had been pouting and sulking ever since.

On the other hand, Zassia was sitting on the edge of the wagon and practicing her crawling flame on the ground as the wagon moved. Zassia’s dedication to practice was moving Sollel, but every time Zassia would utter a prayer to the Mistress of Flame before eating, Sollel also felt she’s in a predicament. She was getting used to it, but being prayed to really was not Sollel’s cup of tea.

They camped outside again during the evening, and the next morning, they’re back on the road. Fortunately, when afternoon came, they finally saw the city walls of Ager and its humongous gate.

And as they neared Ager, Sollel’s group moved as planned.

♕♕♕

HAKKEN WAS ON THE MOVE. He was near the city gate, hiding in the alley, watching the people who entered the city. He had been there for hours, hiding, because his face was all over the city. They did draw me handsomely, he jokingly thought to himself. But still…

After evading the city guards, Hakken finally saw Xeke enter the city, followed by the rest. But Hakken’s eyebrow furrowed when he counted, and one was missing from the group.

Zassia? He didn’t see someone holding a staff. Where’s Zassia? Did his lady purposely hide Zassia, knowing that she was the center of the wanted list?

Knowing that approaching them in the middle of the city was a bad move for all of them, Hakken went deeper into the alley and hid himself until the right time.

♕♕♕

KAR DRUE WAS standing on top of the city wall, overlooking the city below, when he felt a presence coming from his side. When he turned around to look, he saw the renowned imperial warlord striding toward him with his bloodred-and-black full armor, his two blades’ hilts peeking from the warlord’s back.

Kar had met the warlord yesterday after he got home. After finalizing the plan, they parted ways. The warlord was not really a friendly man, and Kar arrived at that conclusion when the warlord didn’t even introduce himself as a sign of respect. But Kar didn’t give a fuss about it even when his subordinates became offended for him.

Respect is earned, after all. Even Kar didn’t fully respect the king like how the other official did. He was only working for the kingdom because it was his father’s dying wish, not because he revered the king.

“They have entered the city,” Kar informed the warlord who stopped and stood beside him, his eyes on the city’s streets like he was looking for something. “May I ask where you have been since this is a joint operation between the kingdom and the empire?”

The warlord massaged his own shoulders. “I woke up late. Where are they, and when did they arrive?”

“Fifteen minutes ago,” Kar replied with his cold tone. “According to the report, seems like they are looking for an inn.”

“An inn?” The warlord chuckled like he was amused. “How waggish of them not to take the empire and the kingdom seriously. Or was it because of the gag order issued by the kingdom? Did you see the Mistress of Flame?”

Kar nodded. “She was wearing a cloak and not carrying her staff, but she could never hide from my senses. And she’s with the same group. It was easy to tell.”

The warlord nodded. “When do we ambush them?”

“Tonight. As planned.”

“With moonrite stones?”

“Yes. But even without the stone, she can never escape from me,” said Kar while holding the hilt of his war hammer strapped on his back. His war hammer’s ability was to drag back an escaping opponent and strike.

The warlord took a controlled breath. “She’s the Mistress of Flame, known for her fierce and scorching strength. Can you win?”

Kar nodded. “I am a descendant of Sappher. And so are you.” Kar glanced at the warlord’s war blades—an arcane weapon that only a descendant of Sappher can wield. The warlord didn’t tell him, but Kar could tell. “No one could match her strength other than us.”

“You’re right,” the warlord said as he took a deep breath. “But we did lose the battle hundreds of years ago.”

Kar shrugged like it meant nothing. “Different arcane weapons and different warriors. Basing our chances of winning by comparing us to the warriors from before is nothing but a joke. We have already surmounted our ancestors’ strength. It’s time to get even, don’t you think?”

The warlord raised his head and looked at the orange-red sky. The sun was setting, and the night was about to fall. “Different, huh?”

When Kar didn’t answer, the warlord faced Kar and offered him his hand.

“Imperial warlord, Hakkeran Adral, a warlord from the royal family of Adralleous, descendant of Sappher.”

The corner of Kar’s lips slightly tugged up, knowing that it was the respect he was waiting for, as he accepted the warlord’s handshake. “Kingdom of Treterra’s general, Kar Drue Ymbert, a warlord from the royal family of Ymbertous, descendant of Sappher. Honored to make your acquaintance.”

“The honor is mine.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 33

CHAPTER 33

SOLLEL’S GROUP rented only one room when they found an inn. Everyone was inside, except for Xeke who offered to look around and check the situation outside. They immediately felt the tension in the air when they entered the city, especially when the guards let them in without a fuss after knowing that they’re on a wanted list.

Indeed, a trap. Her highness was right, Cira thought as she peeked into her satchel to see if the moonrite stone was glowing, a sign that a moonrite stone was nearby.

Fortunately, the stone was not emitting a glow. That meant there was no moonrite stone nearby.

Meanwhile, outside, guards were very subtly surrounding the inn with their weapons ready. They had been briefed by the superior not to take the escapee’s group lightly because it would lead to their deaths, so everyone was giving it their all. On the other hand, the wind sorcerer and sorceress of the kingdom were getting ready and was waiting for their orders. They’d be the one handling the delivery of the moonrite stone to the army in the city because of their flight ability.

The occupants and the owner of the inn had been relocated to a different location as to not get caught up in the fighting that was about to happen that night. Even the business owners in the area and residents were relocated as well.

The whole city was silent as General Kar Drue and Imperial Warlord Hakkeran Adral stood on top of the tallest building near the inn. The two had a clear view of their surroundings.

“What happened to your weapon?” Kar Drue asked Hakkeran, seeing that the war blades strapped on his back had changed.

“We’re fighting the Mistress of Flame,” Hakkeran said like it explained everything, but when Kar Drue frowned, Hakkeran explained further. “I don’t think fighting fire with fire is a good idea. She could nullify my attacks. So I choose my second-best weapon.”

Kar Drue nodded when he understood and then turned to one of his shoulders on his side to give his order. “Tell the wind sorcerers to deliver the stone now.”

The soldier nodded and immediately flew toward the garrison. The soldier was a wind sorcerer, and sorcerers like him were used for transport and sending important messages. But before the soldier could even travel halfway to the garrison, a dagger appeared before him, halting his movement in the air. Then from out of nowhere, the dagger disappeared, and a man appeared in exchange. Before the soldier could react, a dagger slashed his throat. Then he fell from the sky, lifeless.

And the man who owned the dagger disappeared into the night.

When the soldier’s body hit the ground, a commotion broke, and soldiers drew their weapons to fight, looking for the perpetrator. Inside the inn, Sollel’s group all heard the commotion outside.

“It is starting,” Cira muttered as her ears twitched a little.

Grath summoned his claws and awakened the flame essence inside him. “I’m ready,” he said as he watched his now flaming claw.

Cira turned to her side. “Are you ready… Your Highness ?”

Her Highness nodded and stood—a cue for them to move their asses and fight. They came here for this—to test the waters…and test it, they will.

Grath opened the large window that led outside and immediately saw the rows of soldiers surrounding the inn. “Can I burn them?” he asked.

Cira smiled as she readied her bow blessed by Queen Sollel and arrows from her quiver. “Her highness would be very proud of you, Grath. She hates humans after all.”

Grath grinned. “That’s good. Time to show her highness the result of my training.” After saying that, Grath leaped out from the window to the street in front of the inn, fearlessly standing up in front of the soldiers, baring his fangs and claws.

“A demi-human?” the soldiers murmured to themselves, seeing Grath.

“Why is a filthy demi-human trying to do? Fight us?” one of the soldiers asked then chuckled.

Demi-humans were known for their brute strength, but against numbers of foes, they didn’t stand a chance. And the soldiers knew that; that’s why they were snickering at the demi-human in front of them.

But even hearing their insults and snide comments, Grath smiled. He could feel the flame inside him begging to come out and protect him. Ever since he started practicing how to awaken his essence without the queen’s help, Grath had treated the flame essence inside him a partner and an ally. And now that its partner was in trouble, the flame wanted to come out and burn anyone who dared to defy its master.

“Let’s go, partner,” Grath muttered, and flames erupted from his claws.

The soldiers immediately became wary at the sight of flame engulfing the demi-human’s body. They hadn’t seen anything like it. Demi-humans didn’t have an affinity with the elements.

“What’s that?”

“You’ve got to be kidding me!”

“What’s happening?”

“Is that demi-human wearing an item enchanted by the Druids?”

Hearing all that, Grath grinned. “Nope. This flame is given to me by Her Majesty, the queen.”

“Who—”

Before the soldier at the front could finish his question, a flame claw slash ripped through him, and the last he saw was the demi-human’s angry expression, his cold voice saying, “You are not worthy to ask for the queen’s name.”

As the soldier fell to the ground, ripped and burned, Grath released another flame claw slash, and the soldiers broke their formation to eliminate the demi-human. The human soldiers couldn’t accept that a mere and filthy demi-human could kill one of them.

The soldiers had this notion in their head that the supreme beings of Azitera were humans since they had the largest numbers of population; it was taught to them since they were kids. But Grath, with his flaming claws, was about to prove to them that humans’ superiority was nothing but an illusion to true strength.

Just as the soldiers was surrounding Grath, four arrows flew from the inn’s window and hit four soldiers straight through the heart, making the soldiers step back and look at the inn’s window warily.

“Soldiers!” the commander of the troop shouted. “Divide into two. One division for the demi-human and one division focusing at the inn!”

The soldiers immediately heeded the order and grouped themselves. The first group attacked Grath. Meanwhile, the other group was getting ready to siege the inn, but unfortunately, fireballs flew out from the inn’s window, burning the soldiers who tried to climb it.

Seeing that the soldiers were at a disadvantage, the general and the imperial warlord finally decided to join the fight. Both knew that quantity could never beat quality, seeing the uncanny demi-human who could wield flame, an elf, and the Mistress of Flame.

“Be wary with the warrior wielding a dagger,” said Hakkeran while jumping down to the ground. “He’s with them.”

“A traitor to our race?” Kar Drue’s face darkened. “He’s a descendant of Sappher.”

Hakkeran shrugged and landed on the ground safely. Next to him was Kar Drue, who immediately drew his war hammer when he saw a cloaked figure step out from the inn’s window.

“The Mistress of Flame is mine.” Kar Drue’s eyes narrowed at the cloaked figure. “You can lend a hand if you want.”

Without waiting for the imperial warlord’s reply, Kar Drue ran toward the inn and jumped high to meet the cloaked figure midair. With his war hammer raised, Kar landed his blow, but the cloaked figure dodged his attack. A smirk made its way to Kar’s face, seeing the cloaked figure fleeing.

As if I will let you! Kar gripped his war hammer, and the power of his arcane weapon immediately manifested. A strong air current surrounded the cloaked figure, sucking her back. But before Kar could grasp the figure in his hand, the cloaked figure turned around and released three enormous fireballs, cutting Kar’s arcane weapon ability and giving the cloaked figure time to run.

Kar cursed as he jumped back to escape the fireballs, but it was too late for his shoulder. It was scorched, but it didn’t stop Kar from throwing his war hammer at the fleeing cloaked figure.

Sandwiched between the soldiers and Kar’s war hammer, the cloaked figure called her staff, and by her will, flames dropped from the firestone of her staff. The flames crawled, surrounding and trapping the soldiers inside, while the figure faced the flying war hammer toward her.

“Here goes…” the cloaked figure, Zassia, muttered under her breath before she gave all her essence to summon a flame wall to block the war hammer that her teacher taught her.

Zassia had her eyes closed as she summoned the firewall. She was not hoping that she could form a firewall as thick and as powerful as Sollel’s since it was just taught to her a few hours ago to block the general’s war hammer, if ever. But when she opened her eyes to peek, her lips parted in shock upon seeing the firewall she created.

“I did it!” she hissed to herself, but just as she was celebrating, the firewall she made started breaking. The cracking sound was so audible that it made her heart thunder in worry, but she didn’t move.

Zassia knew that the plan could be dangerous. Her teacher told her time and time again that it might cause her her life, but Zassia stood her ground because she didn’t want to disappoint her teacher. She wanted to earn her recognition.

“Teacher, did I do well?” Zassia whispered as she stared at her now broken firewall and the war hammer that was about to smash into her.

Closing her eyes, Zassia already accepted her fate—her death. It was bound to happen.

But the war hammer didn’t crush her. She didn’t even feel its touch. So she opened her eyes again, and they widened when she saw a transparent barrier, replacing the firewall she made, blocking the war hammer that was about to smash her.

And from behind her, she heard the voice of his grandfather. “Zassia! Move!”

Before Zassia could react, she felt her body being hoisted by air toward the inn’s roof, and when she looked down to the street, she saw how her grandfather pushed back the war hammer with his transparent barrier.

“I will not let you hurt my granddaughter!” Zassia’s grandfather hissed as he did a fighting stance. The greenish white, almost transparent wind stone on top of his wrist bracer armor glistened against the moonlight.

If Zassia had a staff to wield flame, her grandfather had a wrist bracer armor as a medium used to wield wind. Though in the hand of other element wielders and to people with no affinity to any elements, the wrist bracer was useless. But in the hand of Zassia’s grandfather, it was a force to be reckoned with.

He was, after all, a renowned general in his youth.

“What do you think you’re doing to my grandchild, General Ymbert?!” Zassia’s grandfather hissed, his face dark. “I did not defend the capital from beasts and monsters just so you could treat my granddaughter badly!”

Seeing the former general, Kar called back his war hammer. That’s the Mistress of Flame… was the reply Kar wanted to say, but when he looked up, the figure was not wearing the cloak’s hood anymore. He then saw the color of her hair and eyes—they were brown. A human.

Kar looked at the former general. “She’s on the wanted list. She may not be the Mistress of Flame, but she aided her. She must be brought to trial.”

“Over my dead body,” Zassia’s grandfather hissed, and a strong current of wind surrounded him, knocking back everyone who tried to get close.

And just in time, an elf and the dagger-wielder warrior appeared beside the former general. It was three versus one. The soldiers would never be of help because the demi-human was taking all their time without exhaustion. The demi-human flame still burned brightly, and the soldiers banded together to defeat him.

Looking up, Kar couldn’t see any wind sorcerer flying around. His message should have been received, and they’re supposedly here by now. But unbeknownst to Kar, his messenger had already been disposed of by Xeke before he even arrived at his destination.

“Zassia! Run!” the elf exclaimed, but Kar would never allow anyone to escape.

He threw his war hammer to the woman on the roof, but before it reached her, the transparent barrier of the former general appeared, blocking his war hammer.

Kar Drue’s expression darkened even more. The former general was known for his indestructible shield. It was said that, against the monsters and beasts, as long as you’re inside his barrier, you would never die even if you want to.

“Go!” Zassia’s grandfather hissed at his granddaughter who was hesitating.

“G-grandpa…”

“Go, Zassia!”

Zassia steeled herself and ran.

That’s when Kar felt Hakkeran’s presence beside him.

“I’ll follow her,” Hakkeran said in a low voice. “She might lead me to the Mistress of Flame.” Then he ran toward the direction Zassia was running to.

“I’ll help,” Kar offered, but before he could move, the elf, the former general, and the dagger wielder surrounded him, blocking his way.

Kar hissed when he saw that the demi-human was also still alive, giving the soldiers a hard time. Where are the sorcerers?! They should be here by now!

Kar Drue had no time to worry about the plan. He had three opponents blocking his path. But Kar was not worried. When it came to brute strength, he knew no one could best him.

With his war hammer in his hand, General Kar Drue was indomitable.

♕♕♕

CIRA, XEKE, and Zassia’s grandfather were fighting General Kar Drue, Grath was fighting the soldiers, while Zassia was running away without her knowing that the imperial warlord was following her. She just kept running toward the gate, attacking every soldier she came across.

Zassia was running and fighting, mindless of the wound on her leg, when she tried to get down from the roof and fell.

Hakkeran didn’t move to attack Zassia. He was waiting where the woman would lead him. If the Mistress of Flame was not in the city, then wherever Zassia was running to, he assumed it would lead him to the Mistress of Flame.

When Zassia reached the gate, she turned around, and when she saw someone following her who looked like a warrior as strong as the general she fought, she smiled and kept running.

Zassia was not supposed to fight the general; she was supposed to draw the strong ones out of the city, toward her teacher. She didn’t know why the plan was like that and just followed it. And now that a strong warrior was following her, she was in glee.

Yes! I didn’t fail! That’s what Zassia thought as she ran toward the place where they left the wagon with her teacher and Naya.

Following the woman, Hakkeran was led to the forest and then to a clearing.

A frown made its way to his eyebrows when the woman stopped in the center of the clearing and faced him bravely. To see someone who had been running away, facing him head-on, Hakkeran had a bad feeling about it.

And he was right.

Out of nowhere, a flame appeared. It was crawling on the ground, encircling him. Then the flame roared as the flame surrounding him heightened, reaching four feet tall.

Hakkeran grimaced when he felt the scorching heat inside the circle of flame. If he was not wearing his armor, he would’ve been blistered and scorched after being inside the circle of flame for a few seconds.

But Hakkeran’s attention was not on his well-being but at the being who appeared behind the woman he was following.

Tall and beautiful. With bewitching bloodred hair and piercing bloodred eyes. Flames were dancing at the ends of her long bloodred wavy hair, both of her hands wrapped in scorching flame. And her eyes…it looked like molten lava was swirling inside them.

It’s definitely her. “Queen Sollel…” 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 34

CHAPTER 34

THE SCORCHING flame surrounding Hakkeran would surely burn him alive if he left it be. He knew that much, so he drew his swords from his back and slashed the flame in front of him. The slash manifested air pressure strong enough to put out half of the circle of fire, and Hakkeran stepped out as if the flame were nothing, his eyes never leaving the Mistress of Flame.

Then Hakkeran stabbed the tip of his war blades on the ground and put his right hand on his chest, the left one on his back, and slightly bowed.

“Your Majesty, Queen Sollel, Mistress of Flame.” Hakkeran looked like he was showing respect before introducing himself. “I’m Imperial Warlord Hakkeran Adral. Would it be too much of me to ask you to come back to the empire with me?”

All the flames on Sollel’s body disappeared. She smiled, her ethereal beauty that took the warlord by surprise gleaming against the moonlight.

“Will you imprison me again?”

Hakkeran became slightly flustered by the queen’s voice for a moment before pulling himself together. “I’m afraid so, yes.”

“Then I’m not going back,” said the queen.

“Then I’m afraid I have to capture you, whatever it costs, Your Majesty. I apologize in advance.”

Sollel raised her hand to her chest as flames danced on her fingertips. “I have a question before we start, Warlord.”

“Pray tell.”

The queen’s bloodred eyes looked at Hakkeran. “Are you human?”

“No. I’m a descendant of Sappher.”

“Then why are you helping them? Descendants of Sappher are noble warriors, and humans are far from being noble.”

“A promise was made,” the warlord answered, and he tightened his hold on his war blades. “And the emperor is my uncle, so…” Hakkeran shrugged and smiled leisurely like nothing serious was about to go down.

Sollel nodded in understanding and slightly turned her head to the dumbfounded Zassia behind her. “Step back, Zassia.”

Zassia, who was too dumbstruck at what she just heard, stepped back mindlessly. Her brain was not functioning well as she looked at her teacher’s hair and eyes. She froze and couldn’t utter a word while her mind was screaming The queen!

And in that instance, everything made sense to Zassia. The blessing she received, why her flame seemed different, and why her flame was fiercer than others…

It was…it was a direct blessing from the Mistress of Flame! Not a flame essence awakening like I thought! A direct blessing!

Zassia’s eyes blurred as tears fell from her eyes. “Oh, my deity…”

Even with her back on Zassia, Sollel could hear Zassia crying as if her most precious wish had just been granted, but Sollel had to tune out Zassia and focus her attention at the warrior in front of him.

Imperial Warlord Hakkeran Adral was strong. Sollel could feel it. He was not even masking his presence. It was overwhelming. One wrong move and she’d be dragged back to the empire, and she couldn’t let that happen.

Sollel reached for the war blade on her back, clutching the hilt tightly and unsheathing the sword. It was one of the things she asked Cira to buy from the dwarves before leaving Sarnau.

Just one war blade.

It wasn’t enough, she thought, but it’ll do.

“Come at me then, Warlord,” said Sollel like she was inviting someone to tea.

The warlord bowed his head slightly, like a gentleman apologizing. “Then please excuse me, Your Majesty. I cannot let you get past me and reach the Hallowed Valley.”

As fast as a blink of an eye, the warlord pulled his war blades from the ground and attacked. Sollel immediately raised her sword to block, and her other hand conjured a ball of flame and thrusted it to the warlord.

But Hakkeran was able to dodge the ball of flame by turning his body out of the flame’s way, with his swords still clashing against the queen’s blade.

It happened in only a few seconds before the two intensely had crossed swords. Two war blades against one.

Hakkeran moved his blades as if they were an extension of his arm, slashing, thrusting, flipping, and turning them easily to take advantage of the queen’s openings. But instead, every time he attacked, the queen’s flaming hands would block his strikes, and the ball of flame would attack him out of nowhere.

Hakkeran hissed. With his full force, he slashed his sword at the queen’s and was about to use his other sword to thrust, but the queen unexpectedly blocked his first attack. She dropped her sword due to the strong impact, but that didn’t slow the queen down; she even dodged his second attack.

She’s fast, he thought.

With her flaming hand, Sollel conjured the largest ball of flame she could summon and thrusted her palm against Hakkeran, which Hakkeran blocked by crossing his swords in front of his chest, pushing him meters away from the queen.

Hakkeran knew he shouldn’t feel this way, but he admired the queen’s strength. To fight me at close range and be able to dodge and block my attacks and push me back with only one sword and her flame…she’s really the queen of flames of Yther.

Hakkeran smiled. “You’re amazing, Your Highness.”

Sollel smiled with a shrug. “You’re not too shabby yourself, Warlord.”

Seeing the warlord in a fighting stance again, Sollel used all the seconds she had to observe him before he attacked.

Warlord Hakkeran Adral was a strong warrior. His fighting ability was not something to scoff at. Seeing him wielding his war blades, Sollel was certain that he was not the one who hurt Cira. If not for her flames that could be used in a short range, she would’ve been defeated already. The way he wielded his war blades as if they were an extension of his body was mesmerizing.

Well…his face is mesmerizing too, she thought.

Maybe if he was not an enemy, Sollel would gladly enjoy his looks. Though the warlord was an enemy, Sollel couldn’t deny that he was an enemy who was easy on the eyes.

Sollel hurriedly raised her sword to block the warlord’s attack, and the strength shocked him. It was stronger than his last attacks. As his swords clashed against hers, Sollel was forced to back away to escape the warlord’s relentless strikes.

Sollel cussed when she realized she was being pushed back even after utilizing her flame to attack and blocked.

I’m so weak!

Sollel frustratedly dropped flames on the ground and willed them to surround the warlord to give herself a room to breathe, but the warlord just smiled dazzlingly and said, “Sorry, Your Majesty. That’s not going to work on me again.”

And true to his words, the warlord was able to subdue her crawling flame with one slash of his war blade.

His attacks continued.

The clashing of swords echoed in the forest. Sollel continued backing away as she blocked and dodged.

I can’t keep backing away! I have to put some distance between us to give myself room to attack. With that in mind, Sollel dropped her sword, and in a blink of an eye, before the warlord’s war blades slashed into her, a wall of flame suddenly erected between the warlord and Sollel. She used half of her strength to push the wall of flame against the warlord, who immediately stepped back to protect himself.

When Sollel could no longer sustain the wall of flame, it vanished into thin air. What the warlord saw next made his lips part in astonishment.

The queen picked up her sword that she dropped on the ground with her foot and caught it when it was in midair. She used its sharp edge to cut her palm. As her blood dripped on the sword, he heard her spoke like she was enchanting.

“Blood of flame, come forth and burn my foe!” It was Sollel’s only trump card.

When Hakkeran looked into the queen’s eyes, molten lava swirled inside her iris at the same moment the blood on her blade turned into a scorching and blistering flame, devouring the sword up to its hilt and turning it into a fiery flaming sword.

Ah, shit. Hakkeran knew he was at a disadvantage upon seeing the flaming sword in the queen’s hand. He was using his second-best sword; maybe if his own flaming swords were present, he had a chance to block it and survive, but with his current weapon? She’s going to torch me and melt me to death.

And just then, a man came out of the forest, running away from five people chasing him. Hakkeran watched the man ran toward the center of the clearing.

“My lady!”

“Hakken?”

Sollel was about to ask how he knew it was her when Hakken grinned.

“I know there’s a pretty woman underneath that cloak, but I never imagined you’d also be dazzling, my lady.”

Sollel gave a sarcastic “really?” look at Hakken. “Not the time and place to be flirty, Hakken.” Then her eyes lingered at the five people chasing Hakken earlier and warily approaching them now. “Who are they?”

“One of the empire’s forces, I think. They have the empire’s seal on their armor.”

Sollel’s eyes moved to the warlord. “Your allies?”

The warlord sighed while still looking warily at the queen’s flaming sword. “I have no idea why they’re here. I want to fight you alone.”

Sollel was about to express her desire to fight the warlord alone too when, from the corner of her eyes, she saw massive fireballs raining down on them. The caster was none other than one of the five people chasing Hakken.

A flame sorcerer? And a strong one too.

“Get Zassia to safety,” Sollel ordered Hakken, and he listened without question. He moved swiftly, saving Zassia at just a nick of time the same moment Warlord Hakkeran jumped back before the massive raining fireballs hit Sollel and the ground around her.

Amidst the flame explosion and the flame roaring around Sollel due to the flame sorcerer’s attack, she remained unmoving and just watched her burning surroundings.

Meanwhile, Radus, the high flame sorcerer grinned at the effect and destruction his raining fireballs had caused. He was grinning proudly at his handy work upon seeing that he hit the target enemy. The more the flame roared and exploded, the more his grin widened. He just took out the prisoner, who wouldn’t gloat?

The other members of the Wraith just watched Radus, shaking their heads hearing Radus’s maniac laughter. They were already used to his sadistic way of attacking.

“Lura, get ready to heal,” said Radus who looked gloating. “After my raining fireballs, I’m sure she’s already toast. We have to drag her back to the empire, after all.”

Lura, the elf, sighed. “You shouldn’t have toast her. We can capture her normally, Radus.”

Radus clicked his tongue. “I just want her to taste my flame. What’s wrong with that?”

“Your flame is very weak.”

Radus’s eyes widened upon hearing the voice coming from the inside of the roaring flame he unleashed. Not only Radus but also every member of the Wraith pointed all their weapons at the roaring flame that seemed to reach the sky.

“But maybe to human standards, you can be considered strong,” the woman’s voice continued with a mocking tone.

“W-what…wh-who’s talking?!” Radus’s eyes were searching. “Who’s talking?!”

To answer Radus’s question, the woman he just tried to burn walked out of the roaring flame, unscathed.

“I-it can’t be…” Radus was unnerved. “I burned her! I burned her!”

“Yes. We saw,” the water sorceress, Oxar, whispered, while eyeing the woman who nonchalantly stepped out from the hellish flame created by one of the strongest flame sorcerers in Azitera.

Infuriated at the woman’s mocking voice, Radus summoned all his flame attacks.

Fireball. Fire bolts. Fire beam. Firebomb. And firestorm—his strongest attack. All aimed at the woman.

But to his dread, no strong attack of his worked. Every attack he unleashed hit the woman, but nothing was happening. Nothing!

I-It c-can’t be…can’t be…my strongest attack, the firestorm, was nothing to her!

Radius’s mind couldn’t wrap around the fact that his most powerful attack meant nothing to the woman, who even yawned gracefully while accepting his flame attacks. She was not even doing anything to block his flame! And the way the woman looked at him—as if he was the lowest life form in Azitera who didn’t deserve anything in this world—sent shiver down his spine. When the woman took a step closer to them, an alarm rang in Radus’s head.

Dangerous. She’s dangerous! “Back away—”

Radus’s warning to his team was already too late. Flame dropped from the woman’s hands, and that small drop became a three-foot-tall flame crawling on the ground, slithering like a snake, with a speed of light. Before the Wraiths could get ready, a circle of flame appeared around Radus who was trembling in shock and fear.

Connecting the circle of flame to the woman was a path made of raging flame. But the flame was different from Radus’s. His flame was orange with a hint of red, but the flame before him was pure bloodred, and he instantly knew it wasn’t his.

This woman! Who is she?! Radus was ransacking his brain to remember a powerful flame defense, but he was too terrified to summon even a single flame upon seeing how the woman walked on the flame, like the flames were happy to be stepped on, levitating the woman as if the ground didn’t deserve to be walked on.

Radus was already out of his wits, but the other members of the Wraiths were doing their best to free Radus from the circle of flame. Oxar, the water sorcerer, was releasing water with his water essence to purge the flame. Onyll, the wind sorcerer, was releasing wind blades after wind blades, adding wind waves to put out the flame, but his attacks couldn’t even get past the first layer of the flame.

“What the hell is this flame?!” Oxar snapped in anger as he poured all his water essence to purge the flame.

“It doesn’t seem like a normal flame!” Onyll hissed, seeing how his sharp wind blades couldn’t penetrate the flame.

Dandrev, the only warrior member of the Wraith, stepped back and protected Lura who was manipulating her essence to seep through the flame to reach Radus and heal him. But when her essence went near the raging inferno, a horrifying scream let out from her mouth, and then she vomited blood.

“What happened?!” Dandrev cradled Lura in his arms as she convulsed.

Even when it would cost her her life, Lura told Dandrev what happened to warn him. “B-burned…h-her f-flame b-burned my essence…” She coughed up blood again. “R-run…r-run. W-we’re no match f-for her. S-She’s the qu-que..en…”

Dandrev’s eyebrow furrowed in confusion and anger. “What queen?! Lura! Keep your eyes open!”

“Qu-queen…” Lura continued vomiting blood, “Qu-queen of f-flames…the M-Mistress…of F-Flame.”

Dandrev was confused; he didn’t know what Lura was talking about, but he still conveyed this to his team. “It’s the Mistress of Flame!” Dandrev shouted at everyone. “According to Lura, she’s the Mistress of Flame!”

Hearing Dandrev shout, Oxar and Onyll stopped at what they were doing and stared at the circle of flame with wide eyes.

The woman—the Mistress of Flame—already reached the frightened Radus, and even with the raging flames, they heard her voice clearly.

“I blessed your ancestors with my flame.” The Mistress of Flame’s voice was euphonious and enchanting. “And now I want them back.”

As she spoke the last word, a ball of flame filled with pure essence came out from Radus’s chest, and Radus immediately felt all his strength disappear, reducing him to a normal, powerless human. If one could see clearly like Radus’s wide eyes, the ball of flame was wiggling and jumping, as if it was happy to come back to its master.

The Mistress of Flame smiled as the tip of her finger touched the ball of flame, Radus’s flame essence. “Miss me?”

The ball of flame engulfed the Mistress of Flame’s fingers then hands. It traveled to her arms then straight to her heart before settling in the very core of her being—her glowing red soul.

And the instant Radus’s essence fused into Sollel’s essence, she felt a part of her strength coming back. One-fourth of her power was back.

“You have a strong flame,” the Mistress of Flame complemented Radus, but Radus was too far gone, frightened beyond belief. To come face-to-face with the woman who blessed his ancestors’ flame…how foolish was he to fight her! He should be bowing his head and worshiping her. But alas, it was already too late as the Mistress of Flame said, “Thanks for the meal,” and the fiercest flame Radus had seen devoured all of him.

Seeing Radus being reduced to ashes in every second, Dandrev shouted, “Run! Let’s run!”

With Lura in Dandrev’s arms, he started running back to the forest together with Oxar and Onyll. The people running after Hakken earlier was now running away from someone. They didn’t turn around to see Radus one last time and just kept running; only escape was on their minds. Everyone was afraid that the Mistress of Flame would give chase.

But contrary to what they were thinking, the Mistress of Flame didn’t give chase. She had no essence container to suck the essence from those water and wind sorcerers; it was useless killing them.

With the flames now extinguished in the clearing, Sollel turned around to see if everyone was fine, and the first thing she saw was Zassia kneeling in front of her, tears falling from her eyes and bowing her head like a zealous worshipper.

Then Sollel’s eyes landed on Hakken, who’s in an intense battle with Warlord Hakkeran. And as their war blades crossed with an intent to kill, Sollel was in a dilemma.

My bait…didn’t work? 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 35

CHAPTER 35

THE REMAINING members of the Wraith ran without stopping to check if they were being followed or not. They ran for their lives until they could no longer feel anything other than their labored breathing and the insects around the forest.

“Stop!” Dandrev shouted at Oxar and Onyll. “Let’s help Lura first!”

“No! We have to leave this forest immediately!” Oxar snapped at Dandrev.

Onyll agreed with Oxar and glared at Dandrev. “And how do you suggest we help Lura, huh?! She’s our healer! We can’t help her! What we need to do is run away from that monster as far as we could!”

“Even our strongest attacker, Radus, was burned to ashes.” Oxar’s voice trembled as he paced back and forth anxiously. “I couldn’t even put out her flame!”

“I used my strongest attack, and I couldn’t penetrate her defense!” Onyll shivered when he remembered what had happened back in the clearing. “If that was really the real Mistress of Flame, it would be foolish for us to even hunt her again. She’ll burn us all alive!”

Dandrev gritted his teeth. “Tell that to His Majesty! He’s waiting for our report!”

Oxar contorted in disgust. “The emperor clearly knew who that woman is but didn’t tell us! Screw him!” Oxar let out a snort. “Capture her? Yeah, right! That’s the Mistress of Flame!”

Dandrev listened to Oxar and Onyll, and he couldn’t say anything. He, too, knew how dangerous that woman was. Her flame was nothing he had seen before. It was too fierce!

“But isn’t she supposed to be dead?” Dandrev asked in a low voice. “She’s a myth amongst sorcerers…”

Onyll snorted. “Dead or alive, I don’t care. I am not going back to that monster.”

All of a sudden, something clicked inside Dandrev’s brain. “That man we were chasing…we met him in the city, right?”

Oxar and Onyll looked at Dandrev.

“What are you thinking, Dandrev?” Oxar asked upon hearing Dandrev’s tone.

Dandrev swallowed as he explained what came to his mind just now. “How often do you meet someone you’re hunting without effort whatsoever in the street? He’s on a wanted list. Shouldn’t he be hiding?”

Oxar and Onyll became silent as their brain worked double.

They were in the city of Ager, and the talk of the town was the escapee from the empire and her companions. According to the empire’s spy, the escapee was in the city, so the Wraiths waited, but they didn’t see the woman they were looking for. And then the man—one of the escapee companions, according to the imperial spy—passed before them on the street.

They chased the man and didn’t stop even when he left the city gate and entered the forest to escape.

They all thought he was running away to escape…

Oxar’s lips parted when he understood what Dandrev meant. “Are you saying…we were lured to that clearing?”

Dandrev nodded. “After the woman got Radus’s flame essence, she didn’t give chase like we thought. The target was Radus and his flame essence.”

Onyll dropped on his ass and sat on the ground, feeling weak and drained. “But why?”

“I don’t know,” Dandrev answered. “All I know is that we were lured there by that man. It was a setup. Maybe, maybe…” Dandrev guessed, throwing anything worthy to consider, “she needs flame essence or something. You heard her, right? She said ‘I blessed your ancestor with my flame’ and she wanted it back. For what reason? I don’t know.”

Onyll had to grip his hands to stop them from trembling. “If that was so, then she must want it back for a reason.”

“Like what?” Oxar demanded. He couldn’t control his voice from raising because the fear still lingered inside him.

“Whatever reason she has, every strong flame sorcerer and sorceress are in danger,” said Onyll with gritted teeth. “We have to warn the emperor and everyone!”

Oxar was against that idea. “If we returned to the emperor like this, he’ll execute us without mercy.”

“Then what are we supposed to do?” Dandrev asked.

Dandrev was hoping for an answer from Oxar and Onyll when the two answered in unison, “I don’t know.”

♕♕♕

CIRA DREW OUT her essence from her body and enveloped them around the injured Xeke. In an instant, Xeke felt better and stopped coughing blood.

“Are you okay?” Cira asked Xeke as she helped him get up.

Xeke looked at the inn’s roof where the general and the former general were fighting fiercely. “Sorry. I’m not much of a help.”

Cira guided Xeke away from the fighting. “We did our best, and anyway, your skill is more on agility and stealth. You can’t win against brute force. We have to go and meet Her Highness.”

But before they could step forward, a war hammer traveled toward them with a speed of lightning. Luckily, before it even hit them, a transparent shield appeared, blocking the war hammer.

“Go. I’ll take care of him,” said Zassia’s grandfather. “Take care of my granddaughter!”

Cira and Xeke both nodded and left hurriedly. The general kept attacking them to stop their escape, but the defense of Zassia’s grandfather was indomitable, making them feel safe and secure as they get away.

And then the moonrite stone inside Cira’s satchel started glowing, the light seeping out from her satchel. Her heart hammered inside her chest as they tried to escape. She was thinking of Her Highness; she was praying hard that Her Highness was away from the city like planned.

Her highness said she wanted to draw someone out. Who? Cira didn’t know. The queen didn’t tell her. Even when she asked, the queen was silent.

Meanwhile, Xeke, who was behind Cira, hissed when he saw the glow from Cira’s satchel. He immediately understood what was happening and cursed to himself.

The sorcerers?! I thought that darn asshole who dragged me into this mess already took care of them?!

Xeke clicked his tongue and continued protecting Cira, not that she needed protection while running away. She could protect herself just fine, shooting the soldiers with precision without no problem.

Xeke sighed. Why am I even worried?

Xeke used his dagger to teleport himself to Grath who was still surrounded by soldiers. “Let’s go.” Then Xeke teleported back to Cira.

From meters away, Xeke heard a loud roar from Grath, and fire exploded in his direction. After a few minutes, Grath was able to follow after Cira and Xeke.

Soldiers were running after Cira, Xeke, and Grath, but that didn’t slow them down. With Cira’s bow and arrow, Xeke’s dagger, and Grath’s flame, bulldozing their way out was no problem.

Xeke looked back as they ran out of the city’s gate and clenched his jaw when he saw the flame sorcerers advancing and their fireballs chasing them. Unconsciously, he formed a staircase with his dagger; he only realized it when he saw Cira using his daggers to soar into the air.

Xeke clicked his tongue and used his remaining daggers to go back and launched a stealth attack against the sorcerers. Using his dagger’s ability to appear and disappear, Xeke took out three flame sorcerers before he was noticed and was attacked by a fire beam.

Xeke was ready to dodge the attack aimed at him by disappearing when he felt a strong wind current throwing him out of the gate. Worry consumed him, his eyes darting from one place to another. He only calmed down when he saw Cira being thrown by a strong wind current as well, together with Grath.

That’s when Xeke understood that it must be Zassia’s grandfather who threw them to safety. He must’ve seen the sorcerers.

Be safe, old man, Xeke thought before he let the wind carry him to safety, but he remained alert until the very moment their feet landed on the forest’s ground. And after a wind howled around them, as if it were saying goodbye, it became quiet. Only their breathing was heard.

“Let’s go.” Cira didn’t want to waste any time. She had to make sure Her Highness was safe.

Cira jumped from tree to tree to travel toward the clearing where Her Highness would be, Xeke used his daggers to teleport, while Grath was on the ground, running until he saw the direction Cira was taking.

“I think you’re in the wrong direction, Lady Cira,” Grath howled, and Cira nearly fell from the tree if not for Xeke who teleported to her side to balance her body.

Pouting and embarrassed, Cira told Grath, “You lead the way.”

Grath nodded and used his nose to pick up the burnt smell in the air. He believed that wherever the burnt smell was coming from, that’s where Her Highness would be.

As Grath took the lead, Cira followed, and she became irritated hearing a chuckle from behind her. She knew who and why he was laughing.

“Go, die,” Cira muttered.

Xeke chuckled. “And you looked so confident while jumping from tree to tree.” Xeke snickered. “I don’t think I can forget your adorable face earlier, Cira. I should thank Grath.”

Cira grumbled but didn’t say anything and just continued jumping and sliding from tree to tree, but when she continued hearing Xeke chuckle and snicker from time to time, she snapped and turned around with her bow and arrow and aimed it at the bastard behind her.

“Hey—”

Cira shot Xeke.

Seeing Xeke’s panicked face, Cira smirked and shot him again. “Keep laughing.”

Xeke had to hold his laughter as he dodged the arrows coming his way upon seeing the hard-ass, independent elf in front of him fluster.

“Hmp!” Cira glared at Xeke before she turned around and continued following Grath.

♕♕♕

IN THE CLEARING, Sollel just silently watched Hakken and Warlord Hakkeran fight with the intent to kill each other. The killing intent was palpable that Sollel was in awe as she watched. She knew Hakken was good at fighting, but to see him fighting Warlord Hakkeran equally, without being pushed to the corner, she was impressed.

“Go, Hakken!” Sollel cheered Hakken on with a smile and a fist in the air. “Beat him up.”

Sollel didn’t know if she was just imagining it, but she saw the warlord glance at her in disbelief before he became even fiercer. His face darkened, slashing his war blades at Hakken mercilessly, pushing Hakken to the corner until the two entered the forest, still clashing swords.

Sollel didn’t follow and just waited who’d come out from the forest. Seeing Hakken earlier, I thought my bait didn’t work, but seeing them fight…hmm.

Without the two fighting in front of her, Sollel’s attention went to Zassia who was still kneeling on the ground and crying her heart out. Her eyes had become swollen from crying so much.

“Silly girl.” Sollel walked to Zassia and sat on the ground, in front of her, and tilted her head to peek on Zassia’s tear-streaked face. “Stop crying, Zassia.”

“Yes, Teacher,” Zassia automatically answered before she even realized it, and a few seconds later, she was bowing her head apologetically at Sollel, her forehead hitting the ground as she did, her voice trembling as she said, “I’m so sorry for calling you teacher. I am not worthy! Forgive my impudence! I’m so sorry, Your Highness! I’m so sorry.”

Sollel smiled in amusement, and if Zassia would’ve seen that, she wouldn’t have been so nervous. “What’s wrong with calling me teacher? I am teaching you after all.”

“I’m not worthy to call Her Highness teacher—”

“It’s for me to decide whether you’re worthy of my tutelage, Zassia,” Sollel cut off Zassia’s rambling. “Though your worth as a person should be decided by you and not by me or by someone else.”

Zassia froze.

“Now,” Sollel said as she took a deep breath, “raise your head and look at me.”

Slowly and nervously, Zassia finally raised her head and looked at Sollel. And when she laid her eyes on the queen, she started crying again.

“Zassia, nothing has changed. I’m still me, your teacher.”

Zassia shook her head. “No. You are our goddess, the one we worshipped!”

Sollel sighed. “Zassia, don’t put me on the pedestal. A weak being like I don’t deserve it—”

“Please don’t say that!” Zassia pleaded, her voice filled with pain. “Our queen was not weak, even now. For us, for my whole village, you have always been strong and mighty. We—I worship you not because of your strength but because of your kind heart. I know that we, humans, have betrayed you, and I know that I can never compensate whatever the humans did to you, but please give me a chance to serve you. I promise I won’t be a hindrance. I will work hard. I will devote myself! I will die for you—”

“You don’t have to do that, Zassia.”

Zassia’s shoulders fell. “B-But…I-I’ll do anything—”

“You don’t have to do anything.” Sollel’s hand reached for Zassia’s face to dry her cheeks. “You’re my student, Zassia. All you need to do is listen to me and study. That’s it. If you really want to help me, then be strong. Now call me teacher and not highness.”

Zassia’s tears doubled as she sobbed. “T-teacher…”

Sollel smiled and continued drying Zassia’s damped cheeks. “After what happened, I hate humans, but you’re an exemption to that, so I beg of you, don’t make me regret it, Zassia, okay?”

Zassia nodded sternly because she knew what it meant to earn the queen’s trust. But hearing the queen say that she hated human broke Zassia’s heart. Of all of Yther’s queens, Queen Sollel was the fiercest, but she had the softest heart. She was the first queen who chose and decided to bless the humans, a weak race, with her flame so they’d be able to protect themselves. She was the queen who worked side by side with humans, nurturing them and educating them. It was said that of all the queens of Yther, it was Queen Sollel who adored humans the most.

And to be betrayed by them… Zassia’s heart was breaking as she sobbed endlessly.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry,” Zassia kept muttering endlessly.

Sollel took a deep breath and fixed Zassia’s messy hair. “Stop apologizing, fix yourself, and pull yourself together. We still have lots of enemies, Zassia. We have to keep our guard up.”

Hearing that, Zassia forced her tears to stop and pulled herself together. She would never be a burden to her queen. Queen Sollel said she was her student, but to Zassia, she was but a mere servant. Why would a weak sorceress like her be a student of the Mistress of Flame? A sorcerer like me who ran away and left her whole village to die is not worthy of such honor.

“Your Highness!”

“Your Highness?”

It was Cira and Grath, running to Sollel. Cira was relieved and happy, while Grath was in awe upon seeing the queen he served without her cloak on. She looked so ethereal with her bloodred hair and eyes and her elegant and graceful gait.

His feet slowed down from walking until it stopped midway, just staring at the queen with wide eyes as Lady Cira conversed with her.

One of the Queens of Yther. The Mistress of Flame.

Grath felt the hair on his body raised as he fell on his knees and kneeled on the ground—kneeled at the kind and merciful queen of Yther, the Mistress of Flame. “Your Highness…”

“I’m okay, Cira—” Sollel’s words halted when she saw Grath kneeling and solemnly bowing at her, while Xeke, who was behind Grath, upon seeing her without a cloak for the first time, had his eyes wide open in shock.

Sollel smiled inwardly. We’re only missing one person, and we’ll be complete… Sollel then glanced at the forest where Hakken and Hakkeran entered and continued fighting.

Just as Sollel was pondering who would come out of the forest and enter the clearing again, she saw Hakken clutching his side, slightly limping and bleeding.

Instead of getting worried, Sollel smiled. My bait works after all. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 36

CHAPTER 36

CIRA HEALED Hakken the moment she saw him bleeding, while Sollel just watched and stayed by Hakken’s side, watching him wince and glance at her from time to time as if he couldn’t get enough of Sollel’s face.

Now that everyone already saw her hair and eyes, Sollel didn’t have any plans to cover herself with a cloak again. And so she was standing beside Hakken without anything covering her face, which flustered Hakken even though he was injured.

Cira just shook her head after catching Hakken stealing glances at the queen. She knew that the queen was a gorgeous lady, so she let Hakken be. Who wouldn’t like Queen Sollel anyway? With her fiery bloodred hair and soft but fierce eyes, the Mistress of Flame was stunning.

Then out of nowhere, a figure came out of the forest and ran toward Sollel.

“Mamma!” It was Naya, and she immediately launched herself at Sollel.

Out of four people around Sollel and Naya, there were two who had a weird expression on their faces—Hakken and Cira.

Cira pouted, jealous that she was not given a permission to call Her Highness Mamma , while Hakken was shocked beyond belief when he heard the girl called Sollel Mamma .

“You…” Hakken couldn’t continue his question and just stared at Sollel as if his tongue had been cut, his eyes sporting disbelief.

Sollel glanced at Hakken as she hugged Naya. “What?”

Hakken’s eyes fell on Naya who had her arms around Sollel’s waist, and then Hakken looked at Sollel again, still speechless. He couldn’t ask the question he wanted to ask.

It was Cira who put an end to Hakken’s silent suffering. “It’s not hers, Hakken. You can relax.”

Hakken actually let out an audible sigh of relief that everyone who heard it nearly laughed.

“Were you scared?” Sollel asked Naya softly while caressing her hair.

Naya shook her head. “I wasn’t. I hid in the wagon like Mamma said.”

Sollel smiled softly, her eyes and face softening as her smile. Hakken, who was watching the two, was enthralled at the scene. It was beautiful—Sollel’s smile was beautiful, tender, and loving, far from the woman who hated humans.

Hakken was staring too much at Sollel that it was bothered Cira, so she smacked Hakken’s shoulder.

“Stop staring at Her Highness.” Cira tsked. “You’re going to make her uncomfortable.”

“No. I don’t mind,” Sollel remarked and looked at Hakken. “He can look at me anytime he wants.”

Hakken’s lips parted at the same time Cira pouted.

Then Xeke chimed in while looking at Hakken and Sollel flatly. “I’m not against you two flirting, but can we leave first and escape before you continue? It’s dangerous out here.”

Everyone nodded and agreed with Xeke. And in a short while, everyone left the clearing and went to the place in the forest where they hid the wagon and Naya.

Grath guided everyone to the wagon. Cira confidently offered to guide them, but Sollel and Grath shut her offer down, immediately making Cira sulk.

“How about my grandfather?” Zassia asked while walking in the forest with everyone. “Is grandpa safe?”

“He will be,” Xeke answered. “His defense is strong.”

Zassia looked down at her feet. “I hope so.” Then she added a prayer like it was the most normal thing to do. “Mistress of Flame, Queen Sollel, please bless my grandfather with your indomitable protection. I pray.”

Everyone looked at Zassia awkwardly after they heard her prayer. Only then Zassia realized what she just said and blushed as she tried to explain herself to Sollel.

“It’s okay,” Sollel replied to calm Zassia’s panicky voice. “I’ve been hearing you pray to me every day since we met. I’m used to it by now…I think.”

Zassia blushed profusely even more when she remembered her prayers. Who would have thought that the queen she was praying to literally heard her prayers? She was too embarrassed! She didn’t think of it earlier because she was overwhelmed by so many emotions, crying and sobbing her heart out. But now, when the queen pointed it out, Zassia just wanted the land she was walking on to swallow her whole.

“So we’re not going to talk about the fact that we’ve been traveling with one of Yther’s queens?” Xeke spoke quietly, and everyone stopped on their tracks.

When no one spoke, Xeke continued as he faced Sollel.

“You’re a myth,” Xeke said in a matter-of-fact voice. “According to my father, you died while razing hell on human lands, so why are you still alive…and healthy?” As a descendant of Sappher, Xeke was not intimidated by Sollel’s presence. “I—we, fought according to your plan. I think we deserve an explanation, don’t you think so, Your Highness? “

Cira was about to chastise Xeke for interrogating Sollel, but Sollel spoke.

“Razing hell on human lands, you say…” A cold smile appeared on Sollel’s lips as she stared back at Xeke. “Did you ever wonder if that was true? Did you not wonder why humans are still alive while I’m pronounced dead? Do you really think there is a human being in Azitera that could stop my flame and kill me? Trust me, Lord Xeke, If I wanted to raze hell, the whole Azitera will burn for eternity and not even the warlords of Sappher could stop me.”

Xeke quietly gulped at the intensity of Queen Sollel’s stare. The anger that burned in her eyes, the rage and vengeance that swirled in their depths…they were fierce.

Xeke took a deep breath and looked at everyone, gauging their thoughts and opinions about the matter.

“The Yther queens nurtured and protected us demi-humans from harm.” Grath spoke when Xeke’s eyes landed on him. “But even without that, I have already sworn my fealty to Her Highness. I don’t care about what she did in the past. I don’t believe them anyway. And whatever the queen chooses, whether she wants to burn the whole Azitera or not, I will support Her Highness through and through.”

“I share the same thoughts with Grath,” Zassia said quietly and gripped her staff. “I don’t care about humans. It’s time for them to pay for the lies they spread and for all the things they’ve done.”

When Xeke’s eyes landed on Cira, Cira shrugged, and Xeke was not surprised. “I don’t really care if all humans died. I’m not fond of them in the first place. They’re selfish and greedy. They always want more. I know Her Highness longer than any of you have, and all I could say is that…if she wanted to burn someone or something and raze hell, I don’t think anyone can stop her. So don’t you dare betray her.” Cira’s eyes became sharp as she looked into Xeke’s eyes. “I would kill you myself if you did.”

Sollel was beyond moved by her companion’s words, but there was one thing that was bothering her—everyone saw her as a powerful being, but the truth was…she was not.

I used to be, but not anymore. The humans stripped her of her strength by imprisoning her and chaining her to moonrite stones. Maybe in her companions’ standard, she was strong. But to her standard, she was still weak. Only one-fourth of her power was recovered after taking that flame sorcerer’s essence. It still paled in comparison to her strength before.

“And you?” Xeke’s voice pulled Sollel out from her reverie, and she saw Xeke looking and asking Hakken. “You’re okay with all of this?”

Hakken was about to answer, but Sollel beat him to it.

“No need to ask Hakken.” She spoke. “Our agreement ends in Ager, and it’s time to say goodbye.”

Huh? Hakken’s eyes widened at Sollel as if he couldn’t believe what he just heard; his eyes even sported disbelief and a little hint of betrayal.

Sollel knew just by looking at Hakken that he didn’t want anything to end. Sollel didn’t want to finish anything either, but she had to do it. It was their agreement. It was the best course of action at the moment.

“Thank you, Hakken, for everything.” Sollel left Naya’s side to go to Hakken and softly caressed his face. A sweet and melancholy goodbye. “I’ve already put you in so much trouble. I don’t want to drag you into my mess. You’re a hunter, and now you’re being hunted because of me. I’m sorry, but I can’t do that to you again. We will pay you one hundred gold coins per our agreement. After that, let’s cut ties for your sake.”

Hakken just gaped at Sollel like he couldn’t believe her. He was too shocked to even resist when Cira handed Sollel a pouch filled with one hundred gold coins and Sollel placed it on his hand.

Hakken wanted to speak, but no words were coming out of his mouth. What’s he going to say? This was their agreement—bring them safely to Ager, and that’s it. It was the deal. Though aside from shock, Hakken couldn’t hide his disappointment. After everything he’s done, he was not expecting a cold goodbye from the woman he adored.

Yes. Cold. Even though she was looking at him and touching his face, Hakken still found it cold. He could tell from her eyes. They were emotionless, as if she was saying a rehearsed speech.

“I—”

“We’ll part ways here.” Sollel dropped her hand that was caressing Hakken’s face. “Thank you for everything, Hakken.”

It was not only Hakken who was shocked, Zassia and Grath as well. Even Cira who provided the money was stunned for a moment, but Xeke felt different. Instead of feeling surprised at what just happened, he felt pity for the guy.

Hakken clearly liked the queen. It was too obvious. And now the queen was throwing him away.

“I’m still useful,” Hakken whispered, but it fell on deaf ears as everyone left, guided by Sollel.

Hakken blinked when all he could hear was his breathing in the middle of the forest. He was all alone—he was left alone like a useless baggage.

Hakken looked at the pouch filled with gold coins in his hand, and for no reason, he started laughing humorlessly like something funny just happened.

My lady…do you really think one hundred gold coins is enough to keep me away?

♕♕♕

ZASSIA KEPT LOOKING back as the wagon moved. Grath and Xeke were in front, manning the horse, while the women were inside the wagon.

“Y-your Highness.” Zassia hesitated before her voice broke the silence. “Is it really okay to leave Hakken? I mean…” Zassia didn’t want to say it, but she couldn’t stop herself. “Hakken looked like he was in shock.”

Sollel nodded as Naya cuddled beside her. “It’s okay. It was our agreement.”

“But it doesn’t make sense,” Xeke interjected, clearly not buying Sollel’s reason. “Clearly, you know how useful that hunter is. He’s a good fighter, and you need good soldiers that can and will fight for you, am I correct? So why?”

Cira glared at Xeke’s back. “Don’t question Her Highness’s decision.”

Xeke turned his whole body to face the women inside the wagon. “I just want to know why she threw away a good soldier that she can use to her advantage.” Xeke looked at Sollel. “Unless you cared for your hunter more than you should.”

Xeke said those last words to confirm the queen’s intention; it was more like a wild guess, just trying to gauge the queen’s reaction.

And her reaction was nothing he imagined.

Sollel smiled at Xeke. “Isn’t it normal to keep the people important to you away from harm?”

Xeke’s lips actually parted in surprise.

Sollel continued, “Don’t get me wrong. Cira, Zassia, Grath, and Naya are important to me too, but they all have valid and solid reasons to stay close to me. But Hakken…” Sollel looked down, her face solemn. “He…he has no reason to stay. It was just money.”

Xeke snorted. “Money? Really? You really think that?”

Sollel didn’t answer and just let out a small smile—a smile that Xeke couldn’t decipher.

Knowing that the woman in front of him was Her Highness, Queen Sollel, Mistress of Flame, Xeke was vigilant and was trying to read her, but for some reason, he couldn’t understand her. He couldn’t understand her movement. Something feels off, Xeke knew that, but he couldn’t pinpoint what it was.

What is it that she wants? Xeke couldn’t help asking himself desperately as he continued manning the horse. His father told him that the queens of Yther were meticulous and wicked beings, that they would do anything to get what they want. And after talking to one of the queens, he knew his father was right.

What did father tell me about the Mistress of Flame? Think!

Xeke tried to remember his father’s teachings about Yther’s queens. He hated it so much before because he believed them to be dead—a myth—and it was no use learning about them. But now the Mistress of Flame appeared in front of him, blood and flesh.

Then Xeke remembered the person who got him into this mess. Does he know we’re helping the Mistress of Flame? If he did, what’s he planning? Xeke felt like his head was about to explode, thinking about the indecipherable beings around him. He felt as if he was in between two rocks, trapping him in the middle without clear intentions. It’s maddening!

If not for the elf in the wagon, Xeke would’ve bailed already. This mess was too huge.

Xeke sighed, and Grath picked up on it.

“I don’t know what your father told you and why he told you those stories about the queens, but…” Grath tightened his hold on the horse’s rein as he spoke quietly so only they could hear. “The Yther queens were beings who protected everyone who needs it. Including humans. All the races in Azitera have some sort of an ability that makes them special, excepts for humans. They were weak and fragile. So the Queens of Yther decided to bless humans with their essence, giving birth to human sorcerers and sorceresses.

“Now tell me, Lord Xeke, would beings like that rebel and raze hell? If you ask me, when the queens of Yther disappeared, humans gained so much from it. Wielding the elemental essence that was given to them, the humans scoured the land and hunted all living things that they considered monsters—like me and other races. Anyone who didn’t look like them are hunted to extinction and sold as slaves. Humans have the strength and the numbers to threaten any race. Now they’re trying to conquer the Dwarven Kingdom, and after that, the Elven Kingdom will follow. And if they succeeded, do you think Lady Cira will not be hunted and sold as a slave simply for being an elf?”

Xeke’s eyes widened, and he paled. He didn’t think that far ahead, like Grath.

Cira…

“I’m not saying that your father is wrong, Lord Xeke,” Grath continued. “But you’re not a child anymore. You can investigate and decide for yourself now. Look around you. You said you’re a traveler. That means you have seen how humans oppressed other races, how they exploited their weaknesses to enslave them. And for that, they deserve to be burned.”

Xeke was silent…thinking. Does he know about this? Is this why he was willing to betray everyone? Xeke had no answer. I need answers. As Xeke thought of that, he formulated a plan.

♕♕♕

CIRA WAS HAPPY seeing the queen not hiding under the cloak anymore. Her bloodred hair and eyes looked stunning and beautiful and proud. But her happiness was laced with worry and fear.

The four kingdoms were clearly a threat to Her Highness and the other queens. As long as they have the moonrite stone, the queens of Yther would have no chance of winning this war. The past will only repeat itself—with Yther’s queens losing again.

I can’t let that happen. I must do something!

With that in mind, Cira, who sucked at direction, planned the direction she’d take to be able to help Her Highness, Queen Sollel.

After finalizing the things she had to do, she sighed inwardly because she knew how difficult it would be. But it was the only way to assure the victory of Yther’s queens.

I can do this!

♕♕♕

ZASSIA COULDN’T LOOK at Queen Sollel who was sitting on the wagon in front of her. Even at that moment, she didn’t feel worthy to sit this close to the queen she and all the villagers worshipped. Zassia was feeling lightheaded, containing her nervousness as she stole glances at the queen.

The queen was indeed stunning. Her hair and eye color were different from the paintings her village had. It was more vibrant, but it was beautiful, nonetheless.

Almost immediately, Zassia looked down when her eyes met her highness’. She couldn’t look at the Queen as her teacher anymore. It’s “the” queen. The one they worshipped. The one they prayed too. It was so surreal, but still, she was lucky to meet her.

The queen was as kindhearted as the tales she heard from her grandmother. She hated humans, but she still blessed her with her flame so she could save herself when she was surrounded by beasts. Zassia was overwhelmed with emotion again.

Ever since she left her village—no, ever since she ran away from her village like a coward, it was the first time that she was thankful for running away, for escaping. She regretted her actions, but she was thankful because she met the only hope she had.

Grandpa, I hope you’re here to see the queen. I’m sure you’ll be the happiest to meet her.

Zassia looked at the queen again with reverence. My goddess… she thought. She felt safe and secure knowing that the one she worshipped was right in front of her, and the will to be stronger didn’t diminish.

I have to be stronger so I can help Her Highness. With determination, Zassia nodded to herself as she swore to be stronger for the queen she revered.

♕♕♕

HAKKEN RAISED his head while sitting on a large tree branch when he saw a needletail bird flying toward him. He leisurely raised his arm when the bird neared him.

When it landed on his arm, he took the rolled paper strapped to its feet and opened it.

Continue the hunt.

He sighed and crumpled the paper before letting the bird go. He was not planning to stop anyway.

Hakken jumped from the tree branch to the ground, and then he started walking toward the direction where he wanted to be.

Passing a part of the forest that was destroyed because of his fight with the warlord, he glanced at the blood on the ground. It was his, and some were from the warlord. He injured the warlord, after all, but his injury was more severe. The warlord nearly ripped his stomach apart.

He felt the warlord’s anger at the end of their fight. The warlord was livid at him, like it was not a fight between warriors but a personal scuffle, which Hakken didn’t understand at all.

Thanks to Cira, he was healed.

Hakken sighed and looked at the direction his lady took before he turned around and went in the opposite direction.

Looks like I won’t be seeing you for a while, my lady.

♕♕♕

HAKKERAN WENT back to the city, wounded. And when he saw Kar, Hakkeran didn’t need to ask to know what happened with his fight.

“Where’s the Mistress of Flame?” Kar instantly asked Hakkeran, agitated.

Hakkeran showed his bleeding gut. “She had a strong warrior with her…and a descendant of Sappher.”

Kar’s face darkened. “The one with the dagger?”

Hakkeran nodded. “Hmm. I don’t know why he’s siding with them, but we can’t rule out the possibility of treason.”

I’m sorry, Xeke. This is for the best.

“Treason…” Kar gritted his teeth. “He betrayed us…”

Hakkeran nodded. “Yes. He did. He fought against us from beginning to end. If that was not betrayal, then what is?”

The end of Kar’s war hammer slammed into the ground, and the ground cracked like it was resonating with the general’s anger. “The old general fled. He’s now being hunted. He can’t escape.”

Hakkeran nodded and sighed. “We have to gather out forces and hunt the Mistress of Flame down. Only the elites should go and hunt her. She may be weak, but she’s still dangerous. Her blood of flame is scary. Even I backed away.”

Kar thought about it before his eyebrow furrowed. “Flame sorcerers might not be a good idea.”

“Just bring a powerful one just in case,” Hakkeran advised, “and the rest should be high-tier water or wind sorcerers.”

Kar nodded. “I will arrange it and speak to the king.”

Hakkeran nodded and leaned on the wall. “Then I’ll contact the emperor.”

Kar nodded and left while Hakkeran closed his eyes to rest them a little.

While he was trying to rest, a woman with bloodred hair and eyes entered his mind, and small smile made its way to Hakkeran’s lips.

“I found you again, Sollel.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 37

CHAPTER 37

AFTER PULLING OVER the wagon to a secluded area in the forest, Xeke set up a perimeter with his daggers. If an outsider entered the perimeter he made, he’d know. It was a safety measure since they’re outside and the whole kingdom wanted their asses on a silver platter.

Their camp was fireless because the fire could attract their enemies. Entering the small clearing, Xeke saw Cira and the queen talking in a low voice.

Xeke was curious, but he was too tired to even bother eavesdropping and just lay on the grass and closed his eyes to rest. It’d be a long day tomorrow; he was sure of it.

Meanwhile, Grath was on guard duty, and Zassia was sleeping in the wagon with Naya.

“I know it’s not only my imagination, Your Highness,” Cira said and glanced at the queen sitting on the boulder beside her. “I know you’ve become stronger, so me, not being here matters not.”

The queen was silent.

“I have to do this,” Cira said, determined. “It’s the only way to expedite the process.”

Sollel sighed upon seeing the determination on Cira’s eyes. “Will you be okay? You’re on a wanted list, you know. Understand that you can’t really move freely.”

Cira smiled and shrugged. “I’ll think of something.” Then she looked at Xeke who was sleeping on the ground. “And I’ll take him with me too. You won’t be able to move freely too with him here.”

Sollel knew there were no words that could change Cira’s mind. She was too determined to follow her plan. “Promise me you’ll be safe.”

Cira nodded. “I will succeed with my life intact.” She smiled. “Don’t worry about me, Your Highness. I’ll be fine. I’m an elven warrior, not some weak damsel.”

Sollel nodded at that and glanced at Xeke. “I have a feeling that even if you didn’t bring him along, he’ll still follow you.”

Cira chuckled, amused by the queen’s observation. “I think so too. I don’t know why, but I think Xeke is very attached to me. I know it’s bad of me to say this, but he’s useful to us.”

Sollel stared at Cira who had a calculated look. Sometimes Sollel would think that Cira was not just a normal elven warrior. She might be silly and threw tantrums here and there, but when the situation called for it, she would become this serious and fierce warrior. Like now. This was not the usual playful Cira she’s used to. This was the Cira who knew what she wanted and would do anything to get it.

“And with him out of the picture,” Cira said as she turned to Sollel, “Her Highness is free to do whatever she wants.”

Sollel smiled at that. “You do know that you’re going to use a descendant of Sappher?”

Cira shrugged, cold, uncaring, and nonchalant. “I don’t care where he came from. What I care about is what he can do and his use to me.”

Sollel shook her head. “I sometimes wonder if you were really an elf. Elves are known for their gentle and honest nature. What happened to you, Cira?”

Cira chuckled a little and said, “I have a queen to help and serve. Being gentle and honest won’t do me any good.”

Sollel raised her hand and messed Cira’s hair. “Be careful out there. How long do you think will it take?”

“I’ll do it as fast as I could.” Cira’s determination could never be wavered. “I will keep in touch with you, Your Highness.”

Sollel nodded. “Then be careful.”

Cira was silent for a moment before she spoke. “Not that I’m worried that you can’t handle the enemies, but I will be less worried and anxious if Hakken was here. If the enemies had a moonrite stone, you need Hakken to fight them off. I don’t think they’ll be other hunters who will help us like Hakken did. We need him, Your Highness.”

At the mention of Hakken, Sollel’s eyes had a faraway look. “I’d like to think that Hakken is attached to me like how Xeke is attached to you, but there are things I need to know and make sure first before anything else.” Then Sollel looked up at the dark sky and smiled. “And if Hakken really wanted me safe, he’ll come without me asking.”

He wouldn’t waste his efforts on me if he would just let me go anyway.

Looking at Queen Sollel, Cira knew she had a plan about Hakken, but Cira didn’t ask and just let Her Highness do whatever she wanted to do with him.

“Your Highness, before we leave, let me and Xeke investigate where the kingdom was hiding Queen Gatria.”

“No need,” Sollel answered, surprising Cira. “I already know where she is.”

Cira’s eyes widened. “Wh-what? H-how?”

A smile appeared on her lips. “A warlord told me.”

Cira was confused. “Warlord? Like a descendant of Sappher?”

“I’m not sure. His weapon was not an arcane weapon, just your normal war blades,” Sollel said with a shrug. “The warlord of Sappher all have arcane weapons that only they could wield. And these weapons have abilities that only the wielder could use. When I was fighting the warlord, his weapon has no ability whatsoever. But his fighting prowess was something to be scared of. He’s strong…”

“But he fled while fighting Hakken, right?” Cira was not seeing what Sollel was explaining.

Sollel smiled. “Did he really?”

Cira stared at the queen to understand what she was explaining more, but an audible gasp escaped her lips when she saw something on the queen’s face. “You’re…interested in him.”

“Hmm?” Sollel glanced at Cira before nodding. “Yes. I am.”

“Oh, my deities…” Cira covered her mouth with her hands in shock. “You’re going to break Hakken’s heart, Your Highness!”

Sollel laughed a little like something funny just went through her head. “Who says I can’t have two? I’m a queen, after all.”

Cira was in too much shock that her eyes were about to pop out from their socket. “Holy…deities…”

Sollel couldn’t help laughing at Cira’s reaction. “Was that shocking?”

Cira nodded aggressively while her hands were still covering her mouth in shock. “I know Her Highness was pure and untouched, so I’m shocked!”

Sollel laughed again. She couldn’t help it. “Cira, I may be untouched, but I’m not prude and innocent. I do know a thing or two about copulating and procreation. It was taught to us by our women elders in Yther. As a queen, I have to be well versed in everything, and that includes copulation.”

Cira was speechless before pulling herself together. “Well, ah, I didn’t see the warlord, so I’m rooting for Hakken.”

Sollel smiled, and Cira found it mysterious. Queen Sollel was never interested in romance while they were traveling with Hakken. Yes, she had become close to him, but it was never romantic. There was a connection between the two, but that’s it. She was focused on finding and rescuing Queen Gatria. But now the queen seemed interested, not only romantically but also sexually.

What’s going on? Cira thought as she stared at the queen even more. Is this part of her plan? Is she planning something? She didn’t believe that the queen would be interested in a man without a logical reason.

Cira sighed inwardly. Hakken, wherever you are. I suggest you move quickly, or else…your heart will be torn to pieces.

♕♕♕

“YOUR HIGHNESS, are we really continuing our journey without them?” Zassia asked while watching Cira and Xeke leave. She didn’t know why the two decided to leave, but it made her worry and think if they were enough to help Her Highness here. “I mean, are we enough to help?”

Grath was thinking the same thing. He knew how strong Lady Cira, Lord Xeke, and Lord Hakken were. And now it’s just them.

“We’ll be fine.” Sollel’s reply calmed Zassia and Grath. “They’ll come back once they finished what they had to do.”

Naya tightened her hold on Sollel’s hand. “Mamma, where are we going?”

Sollel caressed Naya’s hair affectionately. “We’re going to save a friend of mine.”

Grath interjected while looking at Naya. “Your Highness, wherever we’re going, I’m sure it’s not safe for Lady Naya.”

Sollel looked down at Naya who held her hand tightly after hearing what Grath said. She knew it was not safe for Naya, especially where they were going, but she just couldn’t leave her. She promised Naya.

“We can leave her with my grandpa if you want, Your Highness,” Zassia suggested hesitantly.

“Your grandpa?”

Zassia nodded at Her Highness and showed Sollel the message she received from her grandfather earlier.

“Entrance to the Valley of Bones, Little Zaza,” Sollel read the message.

“Valley of Bones?” Grath echoed.

Sollel handed back the message to Zassia and answered Grath, “The Valley of Bones is the first valley we have to cross to reach the Hallowed Valley where my friend is.”

“How many valleys do we have to cross, Your Highness?” Zassia asked so she could get ready.

“If my memory serves me right…three,” Sollel answered. “The Valley of Bones, the Shivering Valley, and the Desolate Valley Land. After that, we will reach the Hallowed Valley.”

Grath took a deep breath. “Three?” And by the names of these valleys, they were definitely not a walk in the park.

“The journey will be torturous.” Sollel glanced at Naya. “Would you mind staying with Zassia’s grandfather for a while, Naya?” Sollel combed Naya’s hair. “It’ll be dangerous if you come with us.”

Naya was silent for a while before she looked at Sollel like she understood. “Will you come back to get me?”

“Of course.”

“Then okay. I’ll stay.”

Hearing that, Sollel turned to Zassia. “Will your grandpa be okay with Naya?”

Zassia nodded vigorously. “Of course! I lived with my grandpa before I went to live with grandma. Naya will be fine.”

Sollel nodded, and a plan was made. They will enter the Valley of Bones, look for Zassia’s grandpa, leave Naya in his care, and continue the journey toward the Hallowed Valley.

Sollel knew there’s a trap waiting for her in the Hallowed Valley. She was more than certain that it’d be crawling with the kingdom’s army and lots and lots of moonrite stones. But she had to free Gatria. Whatever it took and costed.

♕♕♕

“WHAT IS YOUR plan exactly?” Xeke asked Cira while resting after they left the forest near the city of Ager. “Why did you drag me with you?”

Cira drank water from her water canteen before answering Xeke, “Why? Won’t you follow me if I left you behind?”

Xeke looked away like he just got caught. “I…would have…followed…you.” Xeke did his best not to stutter.

Cira hid her amused smile. “I thought so.”

Xeke couldn’t look at Cira’s eyes. “I, ah, kind of…like you.”

“Yeah. I noticed.”

Xeke exhaled. “Does me liking you make you uncomfortable?”

“Not really.” Cira shrugged. “It’s not my first time being confessed to.”

Xeke’s eyes twitched. “Not your…first time?”

Cira nodded. “So I don’t mind at all. You can like me all you want.”

“Unrequited, huh?”

“Do you mind?” Cira asked back.

Xeke shrugged. “I can wait.”

Cira lifted her eyebrow at Xeke’s reply. “You’re not even going to ask me if you have a chance?”

Xeke finally had the courage to look at Cira. “Do I?”

“Maybe…” Cira smiled and got up. “For now you’re very useful, so I’m keeping you close.”

Xeke didn’t know how to feel about that, but he knew one thing—it didn’t really matter to him if Cira was using him or not. What mattered to him was that Cira needed him. That’s all that mattered.

Xeke chuckled to himself. “Hmm…looks like I need to be more useful so you’ll keep me close for a long time.”

Cira couldn’t help smiling. “You like me that much?”

“Apparently, I do.”

Cira was stunned by Xeke’s honesty, and then she smiled and got up, ready to leave. “Let’s get going, Lord Xeke. We have a long way to go. I want to see Her Highness soon.”

Xeke smiled and followed Cira.

♕♕♕

HAKKERAN WATCHED the kingdom gather their army to hunt down the Mistress of Flame. A few days from now, the empire’s armies would also arrive as per Hakkeran’s request to the emperor.

The empire was sending only one powerful flame sorcerer, same with the kingdom.

The hunt would begin soon.

The Mistress of Flame…I wonder what she’s doing right now.

Hakkeran gripped a handful of his hair and blew a loud breath. She was his enemy. It was his responsibility to catch her and drag her back to the empire.

“You’re ready?”

Hakkeran glanced at Kar who was standing next to him, watching the armies get ready. “Yes.”

“We’ll find her,” said Kar. “According to our intelligence, the Mistress of Flame’s group is heading to the Valley of Bones.”

“We should get going to catch up immediately,” Hakkeran suggested and faced Kar. “I won’t let her escape me the second time.”

Kar’s expression darkened. “You and me both.”

Hakkeran took a deep breath and glanced at the forest where the fight happened. “The Mistress of Flame is strong enough, but she also has a hunter with him named Hakken. He’s strong. We should all be careful.” Hakkeran clicked his tongue when he remembered the hunter. “I want to kill that hunter so bad.” How dare he touch what’s mine.

“We will get them,” Kar promised. “Anyway, have you heard anything about the other warlords?”

Hakkeran shook his head. “Nothing. You?”

“Two. The one is living in Caelum. A general.”

Hakkeran frowned. “The castle in the sky?”

“Yes.”

“And the second one is in the demon territory. Apparently, he’s a halfling.”

“Half-demon and half-Sappher?”

“From what I gathered. Yes.”

Hakkeran blew a loud breath. “So that’s five of us, and two missing warlords.”

Kar nodded. “I’ll keep digging and update you.”

“Thanks. I’ll keep digging on my end too.” Hakkeran wanted to find the rest of the warlords for a personal reason.

He just hoped that the other warlords were as reasonable as Xeke.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 38

CHAPTER 38

THE VALLEY OF BONES was a place crawling with thieves and bandits, and it was called that way because this was the place where thieves and bandits die. Bones were scattered all over the valley, old and fresh ones. The valley had become a burial ground. It was said that that the valley had a pungent smell—the smell of death and decay.

But even with a scary history, some people still lived outside the Valley of Bones. At the entrance to the valley was a town—the town of Osta, under the Kingdom of Thurene.

The town was filled with criminals—thieves, bandits, murderers, and the likes. Everyone in town was a degenerate, running from the law and hiding from the wanted list. And the Kingdom of Thurene just let them be; as long as they didn’t enter the city in Thurene, they wouldn’t be persecuted.

Knowing all that, Sollel was not comfortable leaving Naya behind in such a place. But what choice did she have? Their journey was much more dangerous than this town.

Sollel fixed the hood of her cloak and then Naya’s after entering the town of Osta. She didn’t want these degenerates seeing their faces, but Zassia didn’t want to wear a cloak. Instead, she and Grath became their bodyguard.

Zassia might not be a high-tier flame sorcerer, but she was directly blessed by the Mistress of Flame. That would make her flame fiercer than anyone since her flame essence didn’t come from her lineage but from the Mistress of Flame herself.

And with Zassia’s flame and Grath’s flaming claw, no one dared to touch them as they entered the town filled with criminals.

Almost immediately, Sollel’s group saw a flying bird made of paper, and it seemed to be trying to lead them somewhere, so they followed with a suspicion that it might be Zassia’s grandfather.

And they were right.

The paper bird led them to a small hut in the corner of the town. They immediately saw Zassia’s grandfather as they entered the small shack.

“Grandpa!” Zassia ran toward her grandfather and launched herself at the old man whose face softened upon seeing his granddaughter again.

“Little Zaza…” Zio, Zassia’s grandfather, hugged his granddaughter affectionately. “I missed you, Little Zaza.”

Zassia pulled away from her grandfather’s embrace with tears streaming down her cheeks. “I’m so sorry, Grandpa. I dragged you into my mess. I’m so sorry.”

“Silly girl.” Zio dried his granddaughter’s tears. “Grandpa is not blaming you. It’s okay. It was my decision to save you. I promised your grandma I won’t let anything bad happen to you on my watch.”

Zassia cried even more at the mention of her grandmother. “I’m really sorry, Grandpa.”

Seeing Zassia blame herself, Sollel couldn’t take it anymore and interjected, “It was my fault. I apologize.”

Both Zio and Zassia turned to Sollel, but it was only Zassia who kneeled. “Your Highness! Please don’t blame yourself. It was my own decision to help. You’re not at fault, please…”

Zio was surprised and confused by his granddaughter’s action that he found himself staring at the cloaked figure who apologized to him. “Who might you be?”

Sensing Zio’s inquisitive stare and hearing his question, Sollel pulled down her cloak’s hood to show her bloodred hair and eyes and introduced herself to Zio in a quiet voice but with grace and elegance.

“I am Sollel, the first blessed queen of Yther and the Mistress of Flame.”

Zio’s eyes widened in disbelief, but when he saw her granddaughter nodding at him earnestly and proudly, Zio was in more disbelief and became speechless. Then he found himself on his knees, kneeling and bowing.

He had heard rumors about the queens of Yther walking in Azitera again; he took the rumors with a grain of salt, so never in his wildest dreams did he think that he would meet a queen—the Mistress of Flame at that!

“Forgive my impudent tone, Your Highness.” Zio’s forehead was pressed on the ground as he bowed. “I didn’t realize it was Queen Sollel. I am called Zio Vasserel, a high-tier wind sorcerer and the former general of the Kingdom of Treterra. I am honored to meet you, Your Majesty.”

Zio’s voice was steady and firm, but the truth was, he was trembling inside and only controlling himself from shaking in fear. He only heard tales of the Mistress of Flame, and he knew through those stories how strong the queen was. But kneeling in front of her, Zio realized how shallow he was to think that he could measure the Mistress of Flame’s strength.

Even after reaching the highest tier of wind element and understanding the wind essence inside him, Zio wouldn’t dare measure such enormous essence coming from the queen.

It was hot, fiery, scorching, blistering, and overbearing. That was the kind of essence the queen had.

To wield such power, he thought. Indeed. Only the queen blessed by deities will be able to control it.

“You may rise, Zio Vasserel.” The queen spoke with such grace, which left Zio distracted, but his distraction was replaced with astonishment when he heard the queen’s next words. “You are the grandfather of my student. No need to be so formal with me.”

Zio’s stupefied face glanced at Zassia, his naïve granddaughter. “S-student?”

Zassia nodded with a proud smile, and the queen confirmed it. “Yes. I blessed Zassia with my flame.”

Zio nearly lost his consciousness when he heard the queen’s words. Blessed?! A direct blessing from the Mistress of Flame?! Zio was lost for words as he stared at his granddaughter. No wonder…no wonder my little Zaza had become strong! To receive such honor—a direct blessing!

Still kneeling, Zio grabbed Zassia’s hand and squeezed it tight. “Zassia, you have to work hard. Don’t disappoint the queen. The future of Ignis Village is in your hands.”

Zassia nodded. “Yes, Grandpa. I will serve the queen well. I will not disappoint her nor the villagers.”

“Good. Good.” Zio breathed in relief and smile. “I’m so proud of you, Little Zaza. You’ve grown.” Then he bowed at the queen again. “Thank you for taking an interest in my granddaughter, Your Majesty. It means a lot to me. I know I can never repay your kindness toward my little Zaza, but if there was anything you need, anything at all, just say the word and I will do it,” Zio swore on his life.

Sollel couldn’t help smiling. The sincerity in Zassia’s voice when she spoke to her, she could hear it from Zio as well. “There is one thing I need, but first, stand.”

Zio immediately got up and stood in front of the queen like how a soldier would. “Anything you need, Your Majesty. I am at your disposal.”

Sollel placed her hand on Naya’s shoulder. “We are going to a very dangerous place, a place not suitable for children. I am hoping that you could take care of Naya for me. Zassia recommended you.”

Zio looked at the little girl beside the queen. The girl had a slave collar, confusing Zio as he answered, “Your Majesty, I am not planning on staying in this town. I am a wanted man. The kingdom will not stop hunting me, so my plan is to travel to the Dwarven Kingdom to meet up with my old pal and stay there for the meantime. If my plan was okay with Her Majesty, then I will gladly take care of Lady Naya and travel to the Dwarven Kingdom with her.”

Hearing Zio’s plan to travel to the Dwarven Kingdom, Sollel’s anxiousness on leaving Naya alone lessened. “It’s okay with me.”

Zio bowed his head. “Her Majesty can entrust me with Lady Naya’s safety. I will lay my life for hers.”

Sollel was grateful for that, but her trust issues would never go away, so she held Naya’s hand and covered Naya’s whole body with her essence.

Her essence might not be able to protect Naya while she’s away, but through it, she would be able to feel Naya’s well-being even if she was away from her. Her essence would not last long, but it’d be enough to cover the time that she’d be away.

“Thank you, Zio,” Sollel replied after wrapping Naya with her essence. “In exchange, I will also keep Zassia safe. I won’t let any harm befall her.”

“Thank you so much, Your Majesty.” The relief on Zio’s face was palpable before he turned to Naya. He introduced himself before telling her their journey toward the Dwarven Kingdom.

Sollel was still worried, but she decided to trust Zassia’s grandfather who risked his own life to protect Zassia from that general in Ager. And if something happened to Naya, she would know immediately.

“We have to enter the valley before the sun’s goes down,” Sollel said before combing Naya’s hair. “Be careful and listen to Grandpa Zio. I will return to fetch you, so wait for me in the Dwarven Kingdom, okay?”

Naya nodded. She felt sad, and there was this feeling inside of her that didn’t want to be away from the woman who treated her so kindly, but she knew she would only be a burden to her mamma. She didn’t want to be a hindrance. If staying with Grandpa Zio meant she’s helping her mamma , then she’d travel with Grandpa Zio to the Dwarven Kingdom and wait for her there.

“Take care too, Mamma.”

Sollel nodded, smiled, and kissed Naya’s forehead before stepping out of Zio’s house. But before they could put a distance between themselves and the house, Zio came running after them and handed a paper to Sollel.

“I don’t know if this could help you, Your Majesty, and I’m also not certain if the Hallowed Valley is still the same, but this is the map of the Hallowed Valley that I remember.”

Sollel accepted the paper, and when she opened it, it was a messy drawing of a map, like it was made in a hurry, but a map of the Hallowed Valley, nonetheless.

“I hope Her Majesty finds Queen Gatria soon,” said Zio. “I don’t know where she is being kept in the Hallowed Valley since I’m just a lowly general in my time, not a nobility, but I heard whispers and rumors. I’m sure Queen Gatria is there, somewhere in that valley.”

“Thank you.”

Zio kneeled again and bowed his head. “Be safe, Your Majesty, Little Zaza. You can leave Lady Naya to me.”

Sollel, Zassia, and Grath nodded before the three left the small shack and went back to the town’s main street, toward the back of the town where the real entrance to the Valley of Bones was located.

With her hood on, Sollel walked on the street. On her left was Grath with his menacing gait, and on her right was Zassia with her powerful staff.

No one dared to block their way or make a scene in front of them. All the residents could do was whisper to one another while stealing glances at them.

Sollel couldn’t care less about the residents and the whispers; she was too focused on the real entrance to the Valley of Bones that she immediately saw a family figure leaning on one of the trees at the entrance.

A figure that she knew so well.

Sollel didn’t know how to describe what she was feeling—if it was relief, excitement, or happiness. All she knew was that it was overwhelming as she pulled her hood back and stared at her hunter’s eyes who also held her gaze.

“Hakken…”

Sollel was not certain what emotion it was, but when Hakken’s lips formed into his usual charming smile, she smiled too.

“My lady…”

“What are you doing here?” Sollel asked when they neared Hakken.

“I missed you,” Hakken replied while looking into Sollel’s bloodred eyes. “Mind if I tagged along? No payment this time. Just…let me fight for you and let me keep you safe. I know you’re strong, my lady. I know you can fight your own battles, but will you please put me out of my misery and let me accompany you? I promise, I’ll be useful. I won’t—”

“Okay.”

Hakken’s speech was ready. He already practiced it a hundred times before showing himself because he knew it’d be an argument with his lady, so he was shocked to hear his lady say okay.

“Come again?”

“I said okay,” Sollel repeated her quick reply and smiled at Hakken. “You can accompany me.”

“R-really?” Hakken was still in shock. “Y-you still want me? I—I mean, I’m still useful to you?”

“I never remember saying you’re useless,” Sollel said with a smile and Hakken’s eyes were glued to Sollel’s lips. Seeing his lady smile, he was sure it was doing something to his chest.

“Welcome back, Lord Hakken.” Zassia was happy to have a strong companion again.

“It’s a relief to have you back, Lord Hakken,” said Grath who was relieved to have a reliable ally by their side.

Zassia and Grath’s voice pulled Hakken back from his reverie, and he smiled back. “Yeah. Glad to be back.” Then he moved to stand beside his lady and asked in a low voice. “My lady, did you miss me too?”

Hakken was not expecting a reply. He was just teasing his lady, but it looked like he got teased back because of his lady’s reply.

“Yes,” his lady answered. Hakken’s breathing literally stopped. “A little.”

When Hakken started breathing again, he sulked. “I was already happy with ‘yes.’ No need to add ‘a little.’”

Sollel couldn’t help chuckling at Hakken’s sulking face, and seeing that, Hakken had to look away and beat his chest a little for reacting so violently.

Let’s not look at my lady for a while. It’s not good for my heart. Not good, Hakken decided, but a few seconds later, he found himself looking at his lady’s face again, like an addicted man who couldn’t get enough.

He had been traveling with his lady for months now; they had fought a fair share of enemies while traveling, and all that time, her cloak’s hood covered her whole face and hair, and he got used to it. Because even though she was fully covered from head to toe, he still adored her. But now that her beautiful face and hair were in full show, he became more drawn to her than ever.

Hakken knew he was not a shallow man who based his affection on a beautiful face, but he also couldn’t deny that his lady’s face was enthralling.

“I have one condition before I let you accompany me though.”

Hakken immediately gave his full attention to his lady. “Anything…I’ll do anything.”

Hakken saw Sollel’s lips formed into an amused smile at his fast reply, and his heart was at it again that he had to take deep breaths to calm his chest down.

“I lied to all of you—to you specifically,” Sollel said quietly as she looked deep into Hakken’s eyes. “I introduced myself as ‘El,’ and I apologize for that. That’s why before I let you accompany me again, I want to right my wrong and introduce myself correctly.”

Sollel straightened her back and did a curtsy for Hakken; it was an unusual sight to see a queen do that for someone, especially the queens of Yther who were revered. But Sollel didn’t hesitate to show her sincerity, hoping that Hakken would reciprocate her honesty.

“I am Sollel Vatra Sarragny, Krahika of the temple of Ignis, the first blessed queen of Yther and the Mistress of Flame. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Hakken.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 39

CHAPTER 39

TO SEE A QUEEN, his lady, do a curtsy for him, Hakken knew he was in an unfavorable situation. This was a trap laid bare. His response to his lady’s introduction would decide whether he could accompany her or not.

Though what his lady didn’t know was that he was more than ready to be entrapped if that meant being with her.

“Hakken Arages,” he bowed his head and answered her curtsy. “A descendant of Sappher. It is my pleasure to meet you, my lady.”

Sollel took a calm, deep breath when she heard how Hakken’s introduced himself. “You’re a descendant of Sappher?”

Hakken raised his head and looked into Sollel’s eyes. “Yes, my lady.”

Any kindness and humor in Sollel’s face disappeared as she stared back at Hakken. And Hakken felt the coldness in his lady’s gaze. He knew it was coming when he decided to introduce himself, but it was still unnerving seeing his lady’s expression changed.

“I wonder why a Sappher’s descendant wants to protect me. As far as I can remember, we are enemies. Your race abhors mine.”

Hakken answered without a second thought or hesitation, “My lineage is not that important to me, my lady. As I told you before, I’m ready to fight the whole world for you, and if it meant betraying my whole race and making the world my enemy, then so be it.”

Hakken was ready to defend himself against his lady’s wrong assumption of him and prove to her that he would rather betray the whole Azitera than betray her when his lady chuckled at his serious face.

“Relax, Hakken. I was just teasing you.”

Hakken looked at his queen blankly.

Sollel chuckled again before she explained herself, “I don’t really care if you’re a descendant of Sappher or not. It doesn’t matter to me. I value honesty more than anything.”

Hakken just blinked at his lady. He didn’t know if he was speechless because of relief or if it was because he’d been duped.

“And you said you like me. I’ll take it as an insurance.” Sollel smiled before her hand reached out to fix Hakken’s slightly messy hair. “But if you betray me…” Sollel lost her smile in an instant. “I will kill you myself. I will burn you to ashes until there’s nothing left of you.”

Hakken was not threatened because in the first place, he had no plan to betray his lady. “Yes, my lady.”

Sollel smiled again like she didn’t just threaten Hakken. “It’s settled then. Please protect me well, Hakken.”

Hakken didn’t know how to respond to that other than to nod absentmindedly at his lady who seemed cheerful after threatening him. He really couldn’t decipher her. She was smiling and being kind, but why did it feel like it was all pretend?

Was it his instinct kicking in, or was he just overthinking? Hakken didn’t know anymore. Let’s focus on what’s important at the moment.

“If we want to cross the Valley of Bones safely and not get lost, let’s wait till it’s dark,” Hakken suggested as he faced the valley. “The valley of bones is vast, and one could easily get lost if not careful.”

“Why do we have to wait ’till dark?” Zassia was against the idea. “Isn’t the Valley of Bones a burial ground? It’ll be very scary once night fell.”

Grath glanced at the quiet valley. “Is there a specific reason why we need to wait, Lord Hakken?”

Hakken answered the two, “To cross the Valley of Bones safely, one needs to follow the aster path.”

While Hakken was explaining, Sollel found herself an old log and sat there while watching Hakken.

Meanwhile, Zassia tried her best to peek inside the valley from the entrance. “I don’t see any path.”

“That’s because the path will only show itself at night.”

“Oh.”

“Let’s do what Hakken said,” Sollel interrupted, sitting like how a queen would sit on a throne that one wouldn’t even notice that she was sitting on an old log. “He knew the valley more than any of us. Let’s wait for the night and rest for the time being.”

Grath and Zassia nodded, but instead of resting, the two started training their flames. Grath was mastering his control over his claw flame, while Zassia was trying to master her crawling flame, seeing how useful it was in battle.

Meanwhile, Hakken went to Sollel, but he didn’t sit on the log beside her and just stood there.

It was Sollel who tapped the space beside her and offered it to Hakken, which Hakken gladly accepted.

Then silence fell on them.

“Are you…mad at me?”

Sollel didn’t even look at Hakken. “Why would I be?”

“I don’t know. I just feel like something’s off.” Hakken was bothered by that feeling. “Did I do something wrong?”

Sollel smiled, the kind of smile that didn’t reach her eyes. “I’m just tired, I guess. Don’t mind me.”

“My lady—”

“Sollel. Call me Sollel.”

“Sollel.” Hakken looked away, hoping that by looking away, he could hide the fact that it was a big deal for him to call his lady by her name.

But Sollel still managed to see it. “Why are you looking away?”

“N-nothing.”

Sollel couldn’t help chuckling, her exhaustion slowly fading away because of Hakken. “Was calling me by my name too much for you?”

“N-no. Not at all, my lady—I mean, S-Sollel.” Damn! I’m not used to it! Hakken cursed himself.

When Hakken stuttered, Sollel chuckled and continued teasing Hakken, “You look flustered. For a guy who declared that he would betray the whole world for me, you’re very soft.”

“Only to you,” Hakken muttered under his breath before pulling himself together to face Sollel. “I’m just not used to calling you by your name, and I think it’s inappropriate since you’re a queen and all that.”

Sollel was amused. “That’s true. Even back then, I never allowed just anyone to call me by my name. But…you’re not just anyone, are you, Hakken?”

Hakken took a lot of subtle, deep breaths to calm himself. “My lady, please have mercy on me. I may be a strong warrior in the battlefield, but in front of you, I’m just a weak, frail man.”

Sollel laughed a little before she sobered up and became serious. “Hakken?”

“Yes, my lady?”

“I, um, I experienced betrayal at its finest.” Sollel remembered Hakken’s words earlier, and it bothered her so she wanted to set him right. “So I know what it feels like to be betrayed. It felt horrible. And I don’t want your people to feel that way. I don’t have anything against the Sappher—I actually admire your race for being ardent warriors.” Sollel paused. “I know you heard me express my hatred toward humans countless times, and that’s because I have a score to settle with them. But the Sapphers didn’t do anything to harm me.”

“They’re planning to anyway, so it’s okay,” Hakken said without consideration nor compassion. “I already did what they asked me to before.” Hakken glanced at Sollel. “I have no plans to repeat history and make the same mistake.”

Hakken’s last words caught Sollel’s interest, and then she understood when she remembered something about the Sapphers. They were not a long-lived race, but they could still live longer if they wanted to.

The arcane ritual of rebirth.

But I heard it was an arduous and dangerous process. No one actually knew how the Sappher does it—even the queens of Yther didn’t know. Many races tried to imitate them, but no race succeeded. Only a descendant of Sappher could do it.

“Say, Hakken…” Sollel leaned down a little, her long bloodred hair falling from her shoulders as she turned her head to look at Hakken. “Have we met before?”

Hakken didn’t say anything and just smiled mysteriously.

“We did, huh?” Sollel didn’t need to hear Hakken’s answer. His smile was enough. “What a coincidence for us to meet again…”

“It’s not…a coincidence.” Hakken absentmindedly looked at Grath and Zassia training their flame to escape Sollel’s inquisitive eyes. “I heard of your escape.”

Sollel’s eyes widened. “You did?”

Hakken nodded. “I thought it was just a bad joke. After I looked for—” Hakken paused and sighed heavily. “Anyway, I searched for you after what happened in Beastrela. I know you’re traveling with an elf, so when I saw you in Ashmire with Cira, I had my suspicion.”

“Was that why you wanted to see my face?”

Hakken chuckled, and his face softened. “Yes.” He rubbed his palm against his face, feeling embarrassed. “I actually arrived in Ashmire before you and Cira. Based on the routes, if you wanted to escape the empire and travel to a different kingdom, the best town to stock up for your travel was Ashmire, so I went there. It was also the nearest town to Beastrela. I didn’t realize you took the ash terrain rather than the bridge.”

Sollel chuckled when she remembered what happened. “That was Cira.”

“I figured.” Hakken chuckled as well. “I was more than ready to sell myself to you in the guild of hunters, but you approached me instead.”

Sollel lost her smile when she remembered something and flicked Hakken’s ear. “You know it was me, yet you demanded a high price for your service!”

Hakken winced and cupped his pitiful ear that was flicked a couple of times by Sollel, which turned red. “My lady, would you choose me if I said it was free? And—and I did offer a discount!”

Sollel clicked her tongue when she remembered the discount Hakken wanted at the time.

“You know, Hakken, I won’t even be ashamed to be conceited right now and say that you don’t just like me,” Sollel declared and narrowed her eyes on Hakken. “Am I right?”

“I don’t want to burden you with my affection.” Hakken didn’t deny anything. “You’re on a mission to save your friends. I, um, I waited three lifetimes for you. It’s no big deal for me to wait for few more years.”

“Aw. My hunter is so sweet.”

Hakken was looking away, but Sollel still saw his neck and nape reddening. She wanted to tease Hakken more, but he was being honest for a change, so she stopped herself.

Unlike earlier…

Hakken rubbed his red nape. “I, um, I have no idea if you would like me too when the time comes, but nothing beats hard work.”

Sollel couldn’t help finding Hakken adorable. This warrior who could take out dozens of enemies and beasts without so much of an effort was acting shy in front of her. Who wouldn’t find that endearing?

“Hakken?”

“Hmm?”

“Come closer.”

Hakken distractedly scooted closer to Sollel.

“Closer.”

Hakken blinked before he scooted closer. He became even more distracted than before.

“Closer, Hakken.”

Ah, dammit! Hakken scooted closer until his arm rubbed against Sollel’s.

Hakken didn’t know what Sollel was planning for asking him to sit closer. He only found out when he felt her head on his shoulder, resting.

Hakken softly cleared his throat. “This is inappropriate for you, my lady.” She’s a queen, for deities’ sake! A queen of Yther!

“Who cares?” Sollel yawned. “I’m tired. Don’t move. Let me rest for a little while. I haven’t had a good sleep since we left Sarnau.”

Hakken agreed to be Sollel’s pillow for a little while, but he was like a statue—motionless. But unlike statues, Hakken’s heart was uneasy. It was close to hyperventilating, but he managed to stay immobile to not disturb his lady.

After minutes had passed, Hakken was finally able to move his head to look at his lady.

She was sleeping peacefully.

I was right…no one could surpass her beauty. It was not just her face; she was also regal, graceful, and terrifying in battle. And she still hasn’t recovered her full strength at that. He couldn’t wait to see his lady razing hell with her full strength. She’ll be magnificent for sure.

“Hakken, if you kept staring at me, I don’t think I’ll be able to rest.”

Hakken froze before immediately looking away. “Sorry.”

Hakken didn’t see how Sollel smiled before she went back to her rest; if he did, his heart would’ve surely been jittery.

As time passed, Hakken did his best not to look at his lady while she was resting.

Hakken didn’t even know how he managed to stay put until his lady stirred from her rest. He didn’t even realize that night already fell. That’s how much on edge he was.

Sollel softly groaned before adorably stretching her arms, entrapping Hakken’s gaze and full attention, until Sollel looked at Hakken. Their eyes met.

“What?”

“N-nothing.” Hakken stood and offered his hand at Sollel. “My lady…”

Sollel accepted Hakken’s hand without hesitation and stood. Hakken then squeezed Sollel’s hand softly before he let go of it.

Seeing Sollel and Hakken walking toward them, Grath and Zassia immediately readied themselves. They knew it was time to enter the valley.

While Hakken was giving instructions, Sollel watched him with fascination until she felt a presence from behind her.

It was a familiar presence.

Subtly, Sollel turned her body to the side and looked at the direction where the presence was coming from. There was nothing there, but Sollel knew better.

She grabbed the hand of Hakken, who was startled and pulled him towards the valley. “Let’s go.”

Grath and Zassia immediately followed Sollel and Hakken, and in no time, they were surrounded by the valley’s trees and darkness.

Zassia, who was nervous, was about to ask Hakken which direction to take when slowly, before she could even ask, they saw a path in the darkness.

The aster path.

♕♕♕

“DID YOU SEE THEM?” General Kar asked Hakkeran when the warlord came back from scouting. He was the one who entered the town just outside the Valley of Bones, the town of Osta.

The warlord sighed and shook his head. “No. Looks like they already entered the valley of bones.”

General Kar sighed and looked up at the sky. “The sun is already setting. Let’s set-up camp here and hunt the Mistress of Flame in the morning.”

The soldiers nodded and immediately listened to the general’s instructions, while Hakkeran also mobilized the empire’s army and his own to make camp.

Gabin, the warlord’s right-hand man, stood beside the warlord and spoke in a low voice. “Your Excellency, may I ask why you lied to the general?”

“The Mistress of Flame is mine to hunt.” Hakkeran smiled and glanced at the town of Osta. “And she’s still resting. I don’t want to disturb her.”

Gabin was lost for words, but it was to be expected from the warlord he served. “You think the queen will be able to escape us and the kingdom’s army?”

“Who knows?” Hakkeran sighed. “But make sure that our sorcerers are ready—especially the flame sorcerer. He’s needed on the front line, after all.”

Gabin wanted to shake his head at the warlord’s orders. “Your Excellency, I know you’re crazy, but tone it down a bit. We’re working with the kingdom and the empire’s armies, may I remind you. You don’t want to antagonize them.”

Hakkeran sighed heavily. “This is why I hate working with others.”

“Why did you then?”

“They have a strong flame sorcerer, and my queen has to eat.”

Gabin sighed. “Just don’t make it look so obvious that they’re food, Your Excellency.”

Hakkeran clicked his tongue and looked at the town of Osta again.

So near, yet so far .

Hakkeran was pulled out from his reverie when one of his own warriors under Gabin stopped in front of him to hand him a letter.

“From the elf, Your Excellency.”

Hakkeran immediately read the content and sighed. “Wounded, huh?” He crumbled the paper and turn to Gabin. “Send an envoy to the Elven Kingdom. Tell them their princess will be needing their help soon. If they didn’t help, tell them I will repudiate our treaty and I will help the empire raze hell in their sacred forest.”

Gabin’s eyes widened before bowing his head and heading the warlord’s order.

Alone, Hakkeran sighed and looked longingly at the town of Osta again. Ah, dammit! What the hell am I doing? 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 40

CHAPTER 40

THE FIRST NIGHT IN the Valley of Bones was uneventful. The aster path, which was a path made from a flower that glows in the dark, was easy to follow. Now everyone understood why Hakken suggested to wait for night to fall.

But even though it was an easy path to take, everyone was still on guard while walking in line. Grath was in front, behind him was Zassia, and then Sollel and Hakken both took the rear.

No one made a sound nor call forth a fire even if Zassia and Sollel could. They took Hakken’s warning not to conjure light for their safety seriously. They didn’t understand what Hakken meant, but they still listened and put their trust on Hakken.

Maybe it was the best for everyone to not see what surrounded them as they walked. It was a gory sight, something that could frighten anyone with a weak heart. Though Hakken knew what surrounded them, he opted to keep it to himself. It was better that way.

Meanwhile, Sollel was observing and listening to their surroundings as they followed the path. Hakken didn’t tell them anything about the Valley of Bones, but by observing and listening, Sollel already had a rough idea of what was going on.

Sollel grabbed Hakken’s hand and brought her lips close to Hakken’s ear that they were almost touching. “Ghouls, wights, skeletons, or wraiths?”

Hakken knew it was not the right place and time to feel his heart jump because of his lady’s closeness, but he had no control over his body when it came to his lady.

“A-all of the above,” Hakken whispered back that only they could hear.

“Is that why you told us not to conjure fire?” Sollel’s lips was so close to Hakken’s ears that he was having a hard time controlling himself.

It took Hakken a couple of deep breaths before he could answer, “Y-yes. This aster path—the smell of the aster flower prevents them from going near us or sensing us. As long as we stay on the path and we don’t conjure light, we’ll be fine.”

Sollel brought her lips over Hakken’s ear again to whisper, “How did you know this stuff?”

“I researched it when I realized we have to pass the Valley of Bones to get to your friend. I want to be useful after you left me in the forest.”

Sollel smiled in the dark; unfortunately, Hakken couldn’t see it. And Hakken also didn’t see Sollel tiptoeing and leaning in to press her lips quickly on his cheek.

“Thank you.”

Hakken froze. He literally stopped moving that Sollel had to hold his hand tightly and drag him, but Hakken pulled Sollel back with force, making Sollel crash against Hakken’s body and Hakken wrapping his arm around Sollel’s waist to support and balance her footing.

“My lady…that was your lips, right?” Hakken didn’t know how he managed to whisper those words amidst his sonorous heart.

Sollel could tell how anxious Hakken was, and she couldn’t help teasing him. “Have you never been kissed on the cheek in your three lifetimes, Hakken?”

If Sollel could see, she would’ve seen how beet red Hakken face was.

“I, um, I was busy looking for you.”

Sollel’s teasing mood vanished at that. While she was imprisoned, someone was actually waiting and looking for her. While she was busy hating the world, she had become someone’s world. “If you put it like that, it makes me feel like I owe you a kiss, Hakken.”

Hakken stilled before hurriedly explaining himself in a low voice, “No. I didn’t mean it like that. I waited and looked for you on my own volition. I didn’t do it so I could make you feel that—”

“I know. I’m just teasing you,” Sollel cut Hakken’s hurried explanation to put him out of his misery. “But three lifetimes is a long time to wait for someone, Hakken. You really didn’t have someone in those lifetimes?”

Hakken’s hold on Sollel’s waist tightened. “What can I do? I only want you.”

Sollel didn’t need nor want any distraction, and Hakken was a big distraction to her mission, but…maybe it’s okay to be distracted just for a little while.

Just a little. Just for a few seconds.

Sollel raised her hand to cup Hakken’s face. And before Hakken could react, Sollel’s lips were already moving to press against Hakken’s, but maybe Hakken’s lips were meant to stay untouched because before Sollel’s lips touch Hakken’s, they heard Zassia’s and Grath’s voices.

“Your Highness? Why did you stop walking?”

“Lord Hakken? Are we on the wrong path?”

Sollel immediately leaned back to not get caught in a compromising position.

Hakken only saw the silhouette of Sollel’s face moving closer to his and nothing else, but he was certain that the two interrupted something important. Really important!

Hakken nearly cussed when Sollel stepped back and softly pried his arm off her waist.

But Hakken had to answer the two, and while he was talking in a low voice to Grath and Zassia, assuring them that they were on the right path and that they didn’t mean to stop, Sollel was silently standing beside Hakken, biting her own lip.

The kiss she planned to give Hakken didn’t happen, and Sollel was thankful for that, not because she regretted her sudden decision but because she thought it’d be more interesting to give Hakken a kiss in broad daylight. She wanted to see his reaction.

“Let’s keep moving,” Hakken said, and as Grath and Zassia returned to the front, Hakken held Sollel’s hand and asked her in a whisper. “May I?”

“You’re already holding my hand, Hakken.”

“No. I mean, may I do this?” Hakken interlaced their fingers so intimately that even Sollel stilled and Hakken felt it. “Am I…crossing your boundaries?”

In her mind, Sollel’s answer was a yes, Hakken was crossing her boundaries. But Hakken was respectfully asking her, always being a gentleman that Sollel didn’t mind if he crossed her boundaries. She knew she was safe with him.

But what am I doing, really? Sollel asked herself as she silently walked side by side with Hakken, with their fingers interlaced. No man had ever taken the Mistress of Flame’s interest before. A lot tried, but no one really caught her attention. In my long life, this is the first time that I let a man hold my hand so intimately. I could burn his hand if I didn’t want it, but I’m actually enjoying the feel of his calloused hand in mine that my blood of flame is calm.

Sollel sighed and shook her head. I don’t need distractions, but Hakken is a distraction personified. He just had to stand there, and she’d be distracted. Even when I’m still not certain if he was being honest with me, I’m already this invested in him. Seriously, what am I going to do with Hakken and myself?

Sollel had never been in this kind of dilemma, but she also hadn’t meet a man like Hakken before.

Waiting and looking for me for three lifetimes…

“Hakken?”

“Yes, my lady?” Hakken answered almost immediately while walking.

“What did you do in those three lifetimes?” Sollel was curious. “Besides looking for me?”

“Nothing. I spent those three lifetimes looking for you.” Hakken’s answer made Sollel’s heart beat faster than normal.

“You didn’t marry and had a family?”

“There’s only one woman I want to marry, though I don’t know if she’ll accept me. She’s a queen, after all.”

Sollel’s heart continued to beat faster. “Why are you so devoted to a woman who doesn’t even know you?”

“My affection for you knows no bounds, my lady.”

That made Sollel stop on her track and held her temples as a hazy memory assaulted her mind, making her wince in pain.

“My lady?”

Sollel remained calm, cool, and collected even after that hazy memory. “I…was imprisoned for nearly two centuries, and in Sappher’s standards, that’s already three lifetimes.” Sollel was careful with her words. She didn’t want to tip off Hakken that she already had an idea of who he was before. “Does that mean…you came to like me after I was imprisoned?”

Hakken was silent for a few minutes before he finally spoke in a quiet voice like he was confessing something he hadn’t told anyone. “I waited and looked for you for three lifetimes, but I’ve known you for four.”

So I was right…that hazy memory earlier. “You waited that long for me?”

“Of course,” Hakken answered like it was a given, and Sollel stopped questioning him.

He will not answer me truthfully anyway, or he’ll just evade my question. I have to think of other ways to make him confess. Sollel had two missions now—save Gatria and find out the truth about Hakken.

Silence fell on Sollel’s group as they continued following the aster path. Hakken and Sollel spoke from time to time, but their topic was about the valley and their plan when the sun rises.

After hours of following the path, Sollel’s group finally saw the sun peeking in the sky, and slowly, their surroundings became clear as the darkness disappeared.

And that’s when Sollel’s group saw the horror of the valley.

Skeletons. Rotting undead corpses. Wights. Wraiths. Ghouls. And everything that had to do with undead. Dead bodies and bones roamed around the valley, and the only thing keeping Sollel, Hakken, Zassia, and Grath safe was the small aster flowers.

♕♕♕

THE VALLEY OF BONES was large and dangerous; the armies of the kingdom and the empire knew that all too well, but they still entered and forced their way in. Killing any monsters that blocked their way—from skeletons to ghouls, the armies worked together to eliminate them.

Skeletons, wraiths, rotting undead, wights, and ghouls were low-level monsters, even a weak army can defeat them. But what the soldiers didn’t know was that their enemy could defeat them in number and that they couldn’t die. As the battle progressed, the monsters’ numbers kept on increasing until they doubled.

“General!” A lieutenant of the kingdom’s army went back to General Kar while catching his breath. The lieutenant’s uniform was dirty and bloody. “General!” He saluted. “There is no end to these monsters! They don’t die, and our fight attracted a lot of them, doubling their numbers! What are we going to do, General?”

General Kar glanced at Warlord Hakkeran, who was on the horse next to him. “Any news from your soldiers?”

“Same with what you have.” Hakkeran sighed and looked around. “They’re losing too.”

Gabin, the warlord’s right-hand man, spoke. “Your Excellency, do you remember when we cleaned up the forest next to Adral? We fought with these kinds of monsters too, and flame was their weakness.”

Hakkeran ran his fingers through his hair. “We only brought one, Gabin. And he’s here to help us subdue the Mistress of Flame. We can’t risk his life.”

“What if we helped in the front line?” Kar suggested.

“Those monsters will keep coming until we exhaust ourselves.” Hakkeran clicked his tongue and ordered his right-hand man, “Send the flame sorcerer to the front line and order him to make a path for us. We can’t stay idling here and wait for those monsters to be defeated because that’s not going to happen.”

General Kar sent out the same orders, and the two flame sorcerers were sent to the front line.

Only minutes later, the army started to advance, the flame sorcerers making a path for them.

As Hakkeran’s horse moved at his signal, his eyes settled on the small aster flower few meters away from them.

A small smile appeared on Hakkeran’s lips. “I wonder how many soldiers are going to die before we reach the center of the valley.”

Gabin subtly kicked his lord’s feet to send him a warning when he heard him whisper that. “Your Excellency, mind your words, please.”

Hakkeran wanted to roll his eyes at Gabin. “The empire’s soldiers will surely die— serves them right, but our warriors will not fall. They know what to do.”

Gabin sighed heavily. “Your Excellency, don’t antagonize the empire and the kingdom if you wanted your plans to work,” Gabin reminded his lord. “You’ve been planning this for a long time. Let’s not make mistakes that will make you miserable again.”

Hakkeran knew Gabin made sense, so he closed his mouth and only opened them when he heard Kar spoke.

“There’re so many monsters in this valley, it made me wonder why that town outside is still not overrun by them.”

“I heard it was because Queen Gatria, the Mistress of Nature, trapped these monsters here in the Valley of Bones to keep the other races safe, especially humans,” Hakkeran answered as his eyes lingered on the aster flower, “though I don’t know how she did that, but she did it.”

Kar became silent. “Queen Gatria…why does that name sound so familiar?”

“Maybe you’ve read the name from the ancient’s books of Sappher?” Hakkeran offered an explanation.

“There are ancient books of Sappher?” Kar frowned at Hakkeran.

Now it was Hakkeran frowning at Kar. “Yes. It’s one of the books we, the warlords of Sappher, need to read in order to understand our lineage and past.”

Kar was now confused and bothered because nothing of the sort happened to him. “Everything I know about the Sappher was shared to me by my father.”

Now Hakkeran was as confused as Kar. “That’s strange. Maybe your family lost the books?”

“Maybe.”

“Want to borrow mine?” Hakkeran offered. “I don’t need it anymore. There’re tons of things you’ll know and understand after reading the ancient writing.”

“You’ll lend it to me?” Kar was grateful. “Thank you. I appreciate that. Are there…more stories about this Queen Gatria in that book?”

“I believe so, yes.”

“Then I’ll borrow it after we’re done with the Mistress of Flame.”

Hakkeran nodded before facing forward.

It struck Hakkeran that Kar Drue’s family didn’t give him the books. It was an heirloom passed from generation to generation, especially if one underwent the arcane ritual of rebirth. The ancient books served as a reminder and a tool to jog one’s memory at an early age.

Usually, the memories of one’s last life would come back slowly once they reached adulthood, which was twenty years of age. And to help freshen one’s memory, the ancient books were given.

Thought I didn’t need the ancient books to remember. Everything that had happened in his life was still crystal clear to him. No memory was forgotten. The reason he was doing what he was doing now was because he felt miserable.

But not in this lifetime. I will live it as I please. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 41

CHAPTER 41

VALLEY OF BONES

BEFORE REACHING the center of the valley, the kingdom and the empire’s army were already cut down to half — killed by the skeletons, undead, wraiths and ghouls. The only thing that kept the half of the army alive were the sorcerers, especially the flame sorcerers who gave their all to protect and defend.

And as the fight dragged on while advancing, the two flame sorcerers were exhausted and their strength was drained from fighting, which was good news to warlord Hakkeran.

On the other hand, Gabin was worried that the warlord might give away his plan — he kept smiling from time to time that Gabin had to kick his lord’s feet and remind him not to gloat so much.

“Your excellency!” Gabin hissed at his lord for smiling again. “Keep your smile to yourself. Our soldiers are dying. At least, keep a somber face.”

Hakkeran’s face immediately became somber as he looked ahead.

“Your excellency, I know this scene makes you happy, but aren’t you being too happy?”

With a somber face, Hakkeran replied. “Our flame sorcerers are fighting in the front line so heroically,” Hakkeran exaggerated his appreciative voice like he meant it. “I’m just… moved, Gabin.” He sounded so genuine that it made Gabin grimaced. “They’re fighting so hard without knowing that they’ll still die by the hands of my queen.”

Gabin sighed in exasperation. “Your excellency, stop saying ‘my queen’. She’s not yours, you two are not close and she doesn’t even know you.”

Hakkeran’s mood instantly dropped. “You don’t have to rub salt in my wound, Gabin. I’ll kick your horse and whoop your ass.”

Gabin shut his mouth because he knew he hit a sore spot.

“I know my queen doesn’t know me,” Hakkeran sighed sorrowfully. “I know she has no idea who I am, but she will always be my queen.”

Gabin couldn’t help pointing out the obvious again. “Your excellency, you are her enemy, a descendant of Sappher. You were raised to kill her, not help her.”

“But I’m in love with her.”

Gabin sighed. “I know.”

“That’s why I will feed my queen until she’s full.” Hakkeran declared. “I don’t really care what happens to anyone or to Azitera. As long as my queen is happy, she could destroy the world and I’ll be okay with that.”

Gabin was not surprised to hear this kind of talk from his excellency. Hearing his excellency’s plan year after year made him immune to this kind of talk. What worries him sometimes was the soft expression on his excellency’s face when he talks about Queen Sollel, the Mistress of flame and the destruction she might cause in Azitera like it’s a good thing.

“Then, why didn’t you introduce yourself the first time you found her?” Gabin was curious about it. “If you did, who knows, she might have appreciated everything you did for her and like you.”

“I’m more useful in the shadows.” Hakkeran answered instinctively, without a sliver of hesitation. “It’s better this way, Gabin. Knowing the enemy’s movement and dealing with them fast before they could reach my queen is more important than soothing my aching and hopeful heart.”

Gabin slightly shook his head, remembering what the warlord did to General Adri who was hunting Queen Sollel down. Not just General Adri, but to everyone who dared to hunt the Mistress of flame was taken out by the warlord that’s why the Queen’s journey was smooth sailing so far — no enemies from the empire’s side.

Gabin and Hakkeran’s exchanged stopped when two soldiers came running to Hakkeran and General Kar to report.

“General, we found traces of four people traveling and a burnt mark on the ground.”

“Your excellency, we also discovered traces of four people traveling southeast. Based on the footprints and the burnt mark we found, it seems they passed this area few hours ahead of us.”

“That’s them for sure,” Hakkeran declared immediately that Gabin became suspicious that it might be part of his excellency’s plan. “They might’ve encountered the undead of this valley.”

“We need to hurry,” General Kar breathe out. “Tell the soldiers on the front line to keep pushing and follow the burnt mark. Make haste!”

“Yes, General!”

“What the general said.” Hakkeran couldn’t say it any better. “Follow the trace and make haste.”

“Yes, your excellency!”

When the soldiers returned to the front line, they followed and in no time, Warlord Hakkeran and General Kar’s group were headed southeast.

SOLLEL’S GROUP WAS horrified seeing the monsters around them as the sun covered the valley with light. Well, except for Sollel and Hakken who already knew what was roaming around the valley when they ventured it at night.

Grath held his horror together, but Zassia was not that brave. She fell on her ass and Sollel had to hold her arm and pulled her up to calm her down.

“It’s okay, Zassia. I’m here.”

Hearing her highness’ voice, Zassia gradually calmed down, but still looking pale. She was anxious. Everywhere she looked, monsters filled her vision! It was horrifying for Zassia who was sheltered in her village since she was young. But knowing that her highness was there, Zassia did her best to be brave.

Grath, on the other hand, readied his claws and his flame, ready to rip and burned any monsters that dared come their way. 

“Easy, Grath.” Hakken stops Grath from attacking. “Don’t use your flame. It’ll attract not only the undead.”

Grath sighed and his eyes slowly widened in worry when he realized something. “I don’t see the aster flowers anymore.”

“Aster flowers only blooms at night.” Hakken informed everyone. “During the day, it disappears and the whole valley becomes undead’s territory.”

Hearing that, Zassia was about to pray to Queen Sollel when she realized that the queen was right beside her.

Sollel looked around. Like everyone else, she couldn’t see the flowers now that the sun was up. “We can’t stay here until nightfall. The kingdom will not let me go that easily. For all we know, they’re right behind us already.”

Hakken looked back and face Sollel. “No flames, my lady.”

Sollel looked around, “I want to listen to you, Hakken, but look around. Only flame could defeat these monsters.”

“No flames,” Hakken repeated as he draws his war blades strapped on his back. “I’ll make a way for us, then we run towards the direction the aster path was taking us before the sun rises earlier.”

Sollel was not fond of that idea. “Hakken, these are undead. You can’t defeat them with blades alone! They’ll just exhaust you. Let me bless your war blades.”

Hakken shook his head and he looked forlorn. “I’m sorry to decline your blessing, my lady. But I can’t risk our location to whoever is following us. With you flame, they’ll know where we are from miles. We have to be subtle and silent.”

Sollel’s face darkened. “So, you’ll risk your life instead? I can help fight silently. Give me one of your war blades.” Sollel demanded.

Hakken smiled softly at Sollel. “My lady, I’m still going to fight the whole world for you, so no, I’m not going to risk my life and die here. And you have to conserve your strength because if the kingdom was indeed behind us, we’ll need your flame to fight and defend.”

Sollel knew there was no point worrying about Hakken, but she was still worried. “You better be careful, Hakken.”

Hakken just smiled with his war blades resting on both sides of his shoulders before he stepped forward and, in a heartbeat, he was on the front, swaying his blades and slashing the monsters blocking their way.

Hakken’s war blades were a force to be reckoned with. Easily swaying it in every direction he wants, Hakken was able to make a path for them.

Sollel, Grath, and Zassia ran behind Hakken as Hakken bulldozed the monsters blocking their path. He knew fighting like this will drain his strength, but he couldn’t risk their location and he needed to make sure he was useful to his lady, so she’ll keep him close.

As Sollel’s group ran on the path Hakken made for them, Grath disposed all the monsters on the side with his claws while Zassia and Sollel did their best not to unleash their flames.

Flame could easily leave a burnt mark on the ground, and they couldn’t risk it. Hakken was fighting on the front to not risk their location, the least they could do to help was to keep their flames to themselves.

After a few hours of fighting and making a path, Sollel’s group got surprised by a loud explosion. It was hundreds of miles away from them, but the sound was enough to conclude that there was someone following them.

And that’s also when everyone realized that it was a good thing that they listened to Hakken. If Sollel had used her flame to defeat these monsters, her flame might’ve given away their location.

Knowing that the kingdom sent someone to hunt Sollel down, Hakken and Grath attacked simultaneously to quickly create a path for everyone. The two fought tirelessly until night finally fell and the aster flower started blooming again, making a clear and secure path for Sollel, Hakken, Grath and Zassia.

Everyone knew they needed to rest, but decided not to and continued their journey.

“Are you okay?” Sollel hold Hakken’s hand while they were walking on the aster path and massage Hakken’s hand softly to lessen the soreness he must be feeling after he fought valiantly for a whole day.

Hakken’s chest thundered restlessly at the touch, but he managed to pull himself together and reply. “I’m okay. I’m a descendant of Sappher, I can manage.”

But Sollel continued to massage Hakken’s hand, making Hakken more restless. “You still have to fight tomorrow without resting. Will you be okay?”

Hakken nodded. “I will be. Don’t worry about me, my lady. I have to be useful for you to keep me.”

Sollel sighed subtly and flicked the tip of Hakken’s nose. “Did I say that I’ll discard you if you’re not useful?”

“You didn’t have to.” Hakken looked straight ahead. “When you left me in the forest, it traumatized me.”

Sollel knew it was bad to laugh, but laugh she did, making Grath, and Zassia stopped on their track and turned to see why the queen laughed.

The moon was up and shining brightly that it was easy for everyone to see each other — easy for Grath and Zassia to see the queen laughing.

Sensing that they might disturb the two, Grath, and Zassia resumed walking and pretended like they didn’t see the queen laughing brightly for the first time.

“I traumatized you?” Sollel laughed again. “You’re adorable.”

“My lady… have mercy.” Hakken begged.

Sollel shook her head while laughing a little. “It was our deal to part ways in the city of Ager. I’m just following our agreement.”

“It’s still traumatizing to be left behind by you, my lady.”

Sollel became serious and continued massaging Hakken’s hand. “I’m sorry. As I said, just following our agreement.”

Hakken sighed. “I know, but please don’t leave me behind again. I don’t think I can take it the second time, my lady.”

Sollel felt bad for laughing earlier seeing Hakken’s troubled expression. “Don’t worry, just be true to me and I won’t leave you. Easy, right?”

Hakken glanced at Sollel, he still looked bothered, but it was different than earlier. Now he looked bothered with a hint of fear, and Sollel knew why, so she changed the subject since she didn’t like seeing Hakken looked like that.

“Say, Hakken, I’m curious.” Sollel started.

“Yes?” Hakken was now getting used to Sollel’s soft hands massaging his while they walked.

“I know a thing or two about the Sappher’s arcane ritual of rebirth, but I don’t know much about it, so if you could enlighten me, I’ll appreciate it.”

Hakken was not surprised that the queen knew about the ritual, he did say he waited three lifetimes for her. The queen was smart, Hakken was sure that she figured it out already. “What about it?”

“When you undergo this ritual, do you start as a baby?”

“Yes.”

“And… You get to keep the same appearance from your previous life?”

“Yes.”

Sollel nodded like she understood something. “Hakken, you do realize that if I accepted your affection, you’ll grow old and die while I will stay young. And I get that you can choose the arcane ritual of rebirth to come back to me, but it’s uncomfortable on my part to watch you grow up and, you know…”

“I know.” Hakken’s expression softened. “My lady doesn’t have to worry about it. I will not put you in a position where you’ll be uncomfortable.”

“Meaning?”

Hakken just smiled and Sollel had a bad feeling about that smiled, but she let it go of it and didn’t push for answers because whatever Hakken was planning, she won’t let him succeed.

You crept into my life, bypassing my defenses, like it was nothing, and now that I let you in, you need to get ready, Hakken because I don’t let go of people I care about that easily. You can trash, you can beg, you can scream, but what I consider mine, is mine for eternity.

“My lady?”

Sollel blinked and smiled at Hakken. “Yes?”

“Are you okay? You looked pissed.”

“Don’t mind me, I just remembered something,” Sollel lied, and she didn’t feel any guilt. It’s not like Hakken was being honest to her anyway. “Anyway, how long do we have to walk to cross the valley?”

“Two more days.”

“Then we’ll enter shivering valley,” Sollel sighed, knowing what kind of place shivering valley was. “Grath, Zassia and I will be fine in the shivering valley, but you? Will you be alright?”

“… My lady could heat me up—” Hakken paused. “That came out… wrong. I’m sorry.”

Sollel bit her lips not to smile, but she couldn’t stop herself from teasing Hakken. “Of course. I’ll heat you up. Should we start below?”

Hakken unconsciously looked at below his hips and Sollel couldn’t help chuckling.

“Hakken, where is your mind going? I mean, your feet.”

“O-of course, my lady.”

Sollel shook her head, let go of Hakken’s hand and she walks pass him and went to Zassia. Hakken immediately felt the warmth leave his hands and he didn’t know he crave such warmth until that moment.

All Hakken could do was stare at his queen’s back, his eyes sporting longing and sadness. Three lifetimes and I’m still crazily in love with you. Not seeing you before was bearable, but now that I get a taste of what it feels like to have your attention, your smile, and your laugh, I’m getting greedy and terrified of losing you. I know you’re not mine, but, hell, who cares, mine or not, I love you just the same.

Hakken snapped out from his reverie when he saw his lady turn around and smiled brightly at him. Her blood-red long hair swaying a little because of the subtle wind, her blood-red eyes shining so enticingly, her natural red lips were smiling teasingly, and the whole expression on her face was playful, but still with a graceful air.

A queen indeed. My queen.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 42

CHAPTER 42

CIRA’S PLAN was simple, but the process was a tad bit difficult. From the forest outside the city of Ager, Cira and Xeke traveled back to Sarnau. Without resting, the two easily reached Castetava. With Cira’s agility and Xeke’s dagger, speed was not a problem for them.

Cira and Xeke easily reached the barren lands and traversing the route back to Belrac.

“Cira, we have to stop and rest.” Xeke finally speak up. “We’ve been traveling non-stop from Ager. You’re pushing yourself too much. It’s not good for you.”

“No. I have to do this fast—” Cira stopped talking when she felt a liquid trickling down from her nose.

Touching the liquid to see what it was, Cira’s head spins when she saw blood on the tip of her fingertips. “What…?”

Xeke quickly teleported to Cira’s side when he saw her swaying. “Rest. We need to rest, or you’ll get sick. Your nose is already bleeding, Cira.” Xeke was too worried as he helped Cira balanced herself. “Please… don’t worry me too much.”

Cira hold onto Xeke’s shoulder to balanced herself. “I’m fine. We have to reach Belrac tomorrow night and travel to Ashmire—”

“Cira, please…” Xeke was ready to kneel to beg Cira to reconsider when Cira’s lost consciousness.

Xeke caught Cira effortlessly before looking for a safe place for them to rest in this barren land. After a few minutes of looking, he found a cave. Using his cloak as a blanket, he laid it on the ground before he carefully laid Cira on the blanket. And with a clean cloth from his leather bag, he tended Cira’s nose that was still bleeding.

It was the first time for Xeke to care for someone so much that he actually felt scared at the thought that something bad might happen to Cira. He was frozen in place, worried and in fear just thinking of Cira getting hurt.

If only he could stop her from storming in without thought and pushing herself too much, he would have. But Cira was too focused on helping the Queen that she was risking her own health. And he could do nothing than support her and be with her.

Now he understood his father’s words when he said that the descendants of Sappher were a strong race, but with obvious weakness. His father once said that when a descendant of Sappher fell in love, that was it. No way out. A Sappher’s descendant will gave his everything – heart, body, mind, and soul.

It was also the reason why the Sapphers was a declining race. They only love once in their lifetime and that love will be carried to the next life and to the next, only seeking the same woman. Again, and again and again until the end of their time. And even after the woman was gone, their heart, body, mind, and soul remained loyal and faithful. Most descendant of Sapphers chose to not undergo rebirth when their wives dies.

They would rather perish, than to live a life without the love of their lives.

Just like his father.

His father chose death when his mother died.

Xeke looked down at Cira. “I might choose death than live a life without you.” He whispered. “What am I going to do, Cira? I don’t think I just like you.”

Cira who was unconscious couldn’t hear, nor answer. She couldn’t hear the struggle and worry in Xeke’s voice.

Xeke blows a loud breath before he stepped out of the cave to breathe and also to stand guard, to make sure that Cira was safe.

He stayed there for hours, until he heard Cira’s voice, calling him.

“Xeke…?”

Xeke immediately returned and handed Cira her water canteen.

“How are you feeling?” Xeke was trying to stay calm since panicking will not solve anything. “Are you feeling okay? Are you feeling better?” But Xeke was getting anxious as he waited for Cira’s reply. “Talk to me, Cira.”

But Cira was just staring at Xeke and only put Xeke out of his misery after a few minutes of silence. “Xeke, I’m the one who had a nosebleed, but you look really pale. Want to exchange places?” Cira said with a small chuckle.

Xeke exhaled a relief breathe hearing Cira being silly again. “Don’t worry me too much. What do you think will happen to me if I lost you? I like you, remember?”

Cira was stunned for a moment before she smiled like the anxiousness in Xeke’s face didn’t matter. “I’m feeling lightheaded, but I’ll be okay.”

Most men who confessed to her was only interested in what she could give and what they could get from her, but Xeke seemed different— not ‘seemed’, he’s really different. He genuinely cares for her and her alone – and she liked that.

“How about you?” Cira got up and stilled when she realized she was lying on Xeke’s cloak. “Your cloak…”

“My cloak doesn’t matter,” Xeke was too worried to care about his cloak. “Your nose bled, and I don’t need to be a physician to tell you that you’ve been pushing yourself so much. Using your essence to boost your endurance non-stop is not good for you, Cira!” Xeke couldn’t help raising his voice. “I know I don’t matter to you; I know you’re not going to listen because I’m not your queen, but please, take care of yourself.”

“Okay. I will.”

Xeke looked at Cira, stunned at her reply. “You… will?”

Cira nodded and leaned on the cave’s wall. “I’ll rest for the whole night, and we will resume our travel tomorrow noon.”

“Really?” Xeke still couldn’t believe that Cira listened to him.

Cira nodded. “Yes. Really. Now stop looking so anxious and start looking like the Xeke who bravely, but shyly confessed to me.”

Xeke dropped himself on the ground, while still looking at Cira who’s also looking at him.

“What?” Xeke asked. “I’m fine.”

Cira tapped Xeke’s cloak beside her. “Come on. Sleep. I’ll stand guard.”

“No, I’m a man and a descendant of Sappher, I can handle—”

“Don’t use that crap reasoning on me. I’ll smack your head.” Cira said sternly and tapped the cloak again. “You need to sleep too. I’ll wake you up later once I feel sleepy or if I sensed danger. For now, your turn to rest.”

Xeke knew he would not win against Cira, so he quietly laid himself on his cloak and closed his eyes. But he was restless, he couldn’t sleep. He kept changing his position. Just when Xeke was about to give up and get up, he felt Cira’s hand on his shoulder, gently and slowly patting him while humming a soft melody.

And for the first time since his mother died and his father followed, Xeke slept like a baby.

MORNING CAME and Sollel’s group was back to crossing the valley of bones without the aster path. Hakken was on the front again, fighting and making a way for them, with the help of Grath.

From time to time, they would hear explosions from a hundred miles away and as time passed, Sollel observed that the explosions or whoever was using elemental attacks to fight the undead was going to the southeast direction.

If that was the kingdom, then they’re going in the wrong direction. If they continue that route, they will reach the forest in the city of Ager — like they circled back.

Sollel’s group was going east and if it was indeed the kingdom, then their failure gave Sollel and everyone an ample time to get ahead.

But the kingdom was the least of Sollel’s group worries. They’re reaching the center of the valley where the monster numbers triples. And as they continue, strong and evolved monsters started joining the fight.

Wraith who could cast dark attacks. Ghouls who devour the living with speed that could match Hakken’s. Thousands of undead that could infect a living being with their rotten disease. It was too much for Sollel’s group who only had Hakken and Grath on the front.

They managed to hold out until night time, but they slowed down because at the center of the valley, there was no aster flower blooming — no aster flower meant no aster path at night!

“What happened?” Zassia asked, staring at the ground where the aster path ended.

Sollel answered. “Too many undead in the center, I think the soil is already contaminated by the undead’s rot and decay.”

Zassia shivered before turning to Queen Sollel. “What are we going to do, teacher?”

“It’s too dangerous to cross the valley at night.” Said Grath, “unless of course, we fight with the Queen.”

Hakken shook his head. “No. If it was the kingdom behind us earlier that was going southeast, they’ll figure out immediately our location and the fact that they’re on the wrong path. We can’t risk it.”

He realized that even when he was busy fighting. Sollel was impressed, but she guessed it was to be expected from a descendant of Sappher who took pride on their warring strength and strategy.

“Then let’s stay here,” Sollel decided. “If that was the kingdom, we’re already ahead of them. There’s no harm staying for the night and continue crossing the center of the valley tomorrow.”

Since it was the Queen, who decided, everyone agreed, but there was one problem. They had nothing to sit on and the soil smells like rot and decay.

“Wait here,” Hakken said and before Sollel could ask what he was planning, he stepped out from the aster path and disappeared into the night.

Sollel was not worried. She knew Hakken would come back and she was right, a few minutes later, he came back with two long logs. One for Grath, and Zassia to share and one for her and Hakken.

Sitting like a graceful queen in the midst of undead, rot and decay, Sollel let out a heavy sigh.

“I miss water.” She sighed again. “I want to take a bath.”

“In between the valley of bones and shivering valley is a stream.” Hakken informed her. “You can take a bath there, my lady. Do you have spare clothes?”

Sollel glanced at Zassia’s satchel where Cira left her some spare clothes, but Sollel was in a teasing mood. She didn’t know, but she liked teasing Hakken. His reaction was always adorable.

“Why do you ask, Hakken? You’re not imagining me naked, are you?”

Hakken had no emotion on his face whatsoever and just looked ahead. “I imagine no such thing.”

“You don’t want to bath with me in the stream?”

Hakken gulped, but his face remained expressionless. “It would be inappropriate—”

“But I’m a Queen, the Mistress of flame,” Sollel pointed out while watching Hakken’s expression to see his reaction. “I can do anything I want without worrying about anyone’s judgement and without care of inappropriateness.”

Hakken was not breathing. Literally.

Sollel chuckled and patted Hakken’s chest. “Breathe, Hakken. I’m just teasing you.”

The relieved breath that left Hakken’s mouth made Sollel chuckle.

“Ah, Hakken, you’re so fun to tease.” She poked Hakken’s cheek. “In your four lifetimes, were you always this prude?”

“No.” Hakken confessed. “I’m afraid you might not like that side of me, so I left it behind.”

Sollel blinked. “Left it… behind?”

“Yes.”

“So you’re not the whole ‘you’ now?”

“Something like that.” Hakken admitted. “I left every negative attitude behind. So the ‘me’ now is the nice and kind one.”

Sollel stared at Hakken amusedly. “All this… for me?”

Hakken nodded, reserve as always. “Yes.”

“Didn’t it cross your mind that I might like the whole you more, the bad and the good?”

Hakken shook his head. “Who would like a man who has a bad attitude?”

Sollel shrugged. “If it was you, I might.”

Hakken looked at Sollel, his eyes were solemn. “My lady is already having a hard time liking the nice me now, what more if I was bad?”

Sollel looked into Hakken’s eyes. “I like you, Hakken.”

Hakken looked down. “Don’t tease me, my lady. How could you like someone like me? I’m just a lowly being compared to you, my queen.”

Sollel frowned at Hakken before she sighed subtly. For a man who liked her, he couldn’t accept nor believed that she might like him back.

Did I tease him too much?

Sollel poked Hakken’s cheek again to loosen him up. “Fine. I won’t tease you. But, Hakken, I want to see the whole you.”

Hakken didn’t answer and remained silent, so Sollel let him be. But Hakken clenching his fist didn’t go unnoticed to Sollel.

He looked so torn. Sollel observed. Should I put him out of his misery? The answer was a quick no. She had been betrayed that all she wanted from people she cared about was to be honest with her. Good or bad. She just wanted honesty.

What Hakken told her outside the valley of bones that day was only half of the truth. If he had lied to her completely, she wouldn’t have let him accompany her again. But he told her half of the truth while keeping the rest to himself.

So, no. I’m not going to put you out of your misery. Did he really think that she couldn’t remember a thing? Her memory might have been hazy because of what happened to her, but she’s starting to remember most of it, and everything was slowly coming back as her strength recovers.

Sollel sighed and got up. “Grath, let’s exchange sit.”

Hakken’s eyes widened as he looked at his lady’s back.

Grath immediately stood up and complied. “Yes, your highness.”

As Sollel sat beside Zassia who was mumbling and praying to her again, she didn’t look at Hakken’s way the whole night, much to Hakken’s misery.

“GENERAL, I THINK we are being misled.” Gabin heard his excellency speaks to General Kar Drue and Gabin raised his eyebrow at that.

His excellency sounded so genuine and trustworthy that it made Gabin sigh and felt pity towards the General who seemed to trust his excellency so much just because they hail from the same race.

Though unbeknownst to the General, the warlord will not care even if they hailed from the same womb. His excellency will betray anyone for his queen. His loyalty to the queen scares Gabin sometimes, but as long as he wouldn’t antagonized the queen, he’s safe from his excellency’s wrath.

“You think so too?” General Kar’s eyebrows were furrowed.

Hakkeran nodded. “Remember that flame sorcerer you fought in Ager?”

“Yes.”

“Maybe she’s the one doing this to mislead us.” Hakkeran theorized and Gabin just sighed and watch his excellency’s unparalleled acting. “This is not the first time either. She misled us in Ager too. Letting everyone believed that she’s the Mistress of flame.”

General Kar gritted his teeth. The night already fell, and his eyes were drawn to the aster flower that was starting to bloom. Kar saw the same flower last night too. “What’s that flower?”

“I already sent one of my men to investigate.” Answered the warlord. “I noticed the flower too last night, so I sent one of my trusted men to look into it.”

General Kar felt relief knowing that the warlord was a dependable ally. “Let’s order our men to slowly pull back and regroup.”

Hakkeran nodded. “That’s a good idea.”

General Kar Drue signaled his horse to move towards his lieutenant. While Gabin maneuvered his horse to come closer to his excellency.

“Your excellency, are you planning to tell the General the secret of the aster flower?”

Hakkeran nodded. “He’s not dumb. He’ll noticed. I have to give him something, so he won’t be suspicious.”

“And the queen?”

Hakkeran looked at the east direction. “I’m sure she’s already ahead of us. With the number of our army, even if we entered the aster path, it will still take us some time to reach her—” Hakkeran stopped talking seeing General Kar maneuvering his horse towards him.

“I have a plan.” General Kar informed the warlord, but before he could elaborate, one of the warlord’s ‘trusted’ arrived, panting.

“Your excellency!” He bowed his head at the warlord and General Kar. “I’d been observing the aster flower since the night fell and I found out that the undead avoids the flower and once you’re on the flower’s path, the undead will not attack.”

“I thought so,” Kar muttered before looking at Hakkeran. “I’m guessing that the Mistress of flame knew about the path and take advantage of it. Now that we know about it, my plan is to gather all the elites and follow the aster path. If we moved with all our soldiers, it would take us some time to reach the Mistress of flame, but with only our elites and our horses, we’ll be able to catch up in no time.”

Hakkeran wanted to smack himself on the head. He failed. He didn’t think the General would abandon his soldiers to catch up. And Hakkeran had no choice but to nod and agree. He just hoped that his queen already passed the center of the valley.

It didn’t take long to assemble the elites. It was mostly composed of high-ranking soldiers and sorcerers. While the other soldiers were ordered to follow the aster path, the elites, together with the warlord and General Kar rode their horses inside the aster path fast.

Hakkeran could only hope that his queen already crossed the center of the valley.

Ridding their horses non-stop until the sun started to rise, the warlord and General Kar together with the elites reached the center of the valley swarming with powerful undead, wraith and ghouls. The monsters’ numbers multiplied by ten as the aster flower started to disappear.

In the midst of these rotting and decaying monsters in the center of the valley, another group was in the middle of it, fighting their way out. Just meters away from the kingdom and empire’s soldiers. And this group already abandoned their plan not to used flame.

Everyone was in awe, including the kingdom and the empire’s elite soldiers and sorcerers seeing less than a hundred fires shaped like a massive flaming rock raining down from the sky, painting the sky red, shaking the valley as it lands and destroyed multiple hundreds of undead, ghouls and wraiths.

And in the midst of that massive explosion and immense flame devouring the valley, stood a woman with blood-red hair and eyes. 

Queen Sollel, the Mistress of flame herself.

With the aster path’s disappearance and the appearance of Queen Sollel, the Mistress of flame, all hell broke loose. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 43

CHAPTER 43

SOLLEL IMMEDIATELY felt the moonrite stone after her flaming rock attack rained down on the valley, destroying countless of the undead, ghouls and wraiths. But with the moonrite stone so near, her strength was drained in an instant.

Her body swayed, but before she fell, an arm caught her waist and steady her.

“Are you okay, my lady?”

Sollel shook her head as she held onto Hakken’s shoulder. Her head was spinning, her strength was slowly waning away, still, she tried to release another flame attack but failed.

“I’m fine.” Sollel let go of Hakken and patted his chest. “Fight. Go.”

An order from his lady that Hakken couldn’t decline. “Yes, my lady.”

Hakken let go and Sollel drop on her knees almost immediately. Seeing his lady weak, Hakken wanted nothing but to be by her side and assist her, but his lady was not a frail woman. If she told him to ‘go and fight’, that meant she had everything under control.

So, he fought. With war blades on his hands, he slew every monster and soldiers trying to get to his queen. Meanwhile, Grath was blocking the elite soldiers of the empire and the kingdom and at the same time, Zassia’s flame was crawling on the ground around the queen, creating a circle shape flame, trapping the queen inside to protect her.

Seeing the queen in that state, Zassia volunteered herself to be the queen’s protector. With her life, she would die to safeguard her highness!

High-tier elemental attacks from flame to wind, bombarded the circle of flame Zassia created around her queen. The attacks were formidable and overpowering Zassia, but she held her ground and gritted her teeth.

However, Zassia could only do so much. Receiving the attacks from different high-tiers sorceress, she was overpowered, but she would not be defeated as long as she breathes.

“Do not underestimate the direct flame blessing from my queen, the Mistress of Flame!” Zassia screamed with her gritted teeth, she intensified her flame, giving all her essence, she raised the circle of flame around the queen up to six feet tall and made a cage for her.

Spending all her essence, Zassia’s swayed and fell to the ground.

Seeing his companion, Lady Zassia fell, Grath bellowed and unleashed multiple flame claws to block and attack his opponents before running towards Zassia to lend a hand.

“Run!” It was a shout from Hakken that Grath, and Zassia heard clearly. “Run! I’ll meet you later there with the queen!”

“No!” Grath shouted back while defending Zassia who was losing consciousness. “I am not leaving her highness!”

Hakken hissed and slashed his swords against the undead, ghouls and wraith around him, overcrowding him. “Your job is to protect Zassia! Now, go!”

Grath was indecisive as he glanced at the queen inside the circle of flame, then he looked down at Zassia. He swore his fealty to the queen, his entire being was screaming at him not to turn his back. He was reading to shout at Hakken that he will stay when he heard his queen’s order from the circle of flame.

“Go, Grath.” The queen sounded so weak. “Protect Zassia.”

Grath kneeled. “Yes, my queen.” Then he carefully picked up lady Zassia and ran.

They were in the center of the valley; the whole place was filled with undead monsters and the only reason Grath could run away while the elite soldiers of the kingdom and empire were near was because of the hoard of monsters crowding the whole valley attacking everyone that lives and breath. Including the elites from the kingdom and empire.

It was the same reason why Hakken was still standing even when the elites were in the same valley.

The difficulty of running while carrying someone and monsters were after your life, flesh and blood got to Grath after a few meters since he accepted his order from his queen.

“Forgive me, Lady Zassia.” Said Grath, and changed the position of Zassia’s body from his arms to hanging her over his shoulder to free his hands so he could fight the monsters who gets in his way.

Concurrently, the empire and kingdom’s elite soldiers and sorcerers were closing in on Sollel and Hakken. And in the rear, Hakkeran and General Kar were occupied by monsters while giving orders to the elites in the midst of mayhem. Hakkeran and General Kar’s plan was to send in the elite soldiers and sorcerers to the front line, each one carrying a moonrite stone to weaken the queen, while the two enters the battlefield to greatly lessen the numbers of monsters so it’ll be easier for everyone to get to the queen and subdue her.

However, even high-tier sorcerers couldn’t penetrate the flame cage Zassia created around the queen and the elite soldiers couldn’t get close to Hakken without being slaughtered by the monsters.

And what the General Kar didn’t foresee was the queen’s companion. Especially the hunter killing every monster and soldiers in sight to protect the Mistress of flame. Kar’s blood boil and his teeth gritted at the hunter. Whoever sided with the Mistress of flame was General Kar’s enemy. And the hunter protecting the queen was on his number one list to kill and make an example of.

General Kar turned to Warlord Hakkeran who was staring at the flame cage furiously. In Kar’s mind and understanding, Hakkeran was furious at the Mistress of flame. She was the descendants of Sappher’s enemy. Hakkeran’s anger was understandable.

“Take care of the Mistress of Flame,” Kar said to Hakkeran, “I’ll take care of that Hunter.” Without waiting for Hakkeran’s reply, Kar made his way to Hakken.

Meanwhile, a high-tier wind sorcerer bellowed in the midst of chaos. “Surround the flame cage! The flame will die down eventually! Surround it and ready your strongest attack!”

“But the monsters!” A water sorcerer was against the plan seeing the undead devouring their comrades.

One of the captains of the force interject. “Do what you have to do! We will protect you!” And by his order, ten or so soldiers positioned themselves behind the sorcerers, protecting them from monsters. “May the deities bless us!” The captain bowed his head before he faced the undead and started slaughtering them, cleaning up the whole place surrounding the flame cage to give the sorcerers the time to do what they had to.

As high-tiers sorcerers surround the flame cage, their protector was behind them, slaying monsters and protecting their backs, Sollel, who was inside the flame cage, was on her knees, weak. Even how much harder she tries; she couldn’t overcome the effect of the moonrite stone. It drained her strength rapidly and now; she was close to losing consciousness.

With Grath protecting Zassia and Hakken fighting monsters, away from her, Sollel knew how bad her situation now. The moment this flame cage that Zassia created to protect her vanished, she’ll be dragged back to the empire. Caged and chained again.

No! No! I can’t go back! I’m so close to Gatria! Sollel screamed in her mind as she tried to fight in her weakened state.

Meanwhile, outside the cage, seeing the sorcerers and soldiers surrounding the queen, Hakken’s face darkened as he slaughtered every monster attacking and crowding around him, however, as he finished off a monster, another one will replace it and another and another. But that was not enough to crush Hakken’s will to fight and protect his lady. As monsters piled up one after another, blocking his path, Hakken bulldozed and slaughtered his way out. From monsters to soldiers to anyone who dared stand his way, he destroyed them.

But just as when Hakken was near his lady, a strong warrior covered in blood and carrying a war hammer appeared in front of him, blocking his path to his queen.

The bloody and exhausted Hakken jumped back to put a distance between him and the warrior – General Kar, the one who hurt Cira and fought with Zassia and her grandfather. A descendant of Sappher just like him who could slaughter the undead without so much as lifting his war hammer.

Hakken knew the General was a tough opponent, but he couldn’t focus, and his eyes wandered to his lady. The flame cage was still burning, but Hakken could tell that the flame was starting to die down.

My lady!

Seeing the hunter frozen in place as if distracted, General Kar throws his war hammer towards the hunter who was caught by surprised, but it was too late for him to block and escape. The weight of the war hammer slammed against the hunter, sending him flying.

And in mid-air, while the hunter’s body was thrown into the air, General Kar called back his war hammer and when it returned to his hand, he throws it again towards the hunter.

As the war hammer slammed against Hakken’s body again, he was sent flying further away from the center of the valley, away from his lady. He should be worried and anxious, but instead, a smile appeared on his lips when he saw General Kar running towards his wounded and tattered body to finish him.

Good plan, Hakken thought as his body fell into the ground.

General Kar Drue smirked when he caught up to the hunter and saw the shape he was in. Kar was sure that the hunter could never fight nor lift a finger anymore as he draws back his war hammer in his hand.

His lips curling in disgust, Kar Drue raised his hammer to finish off the hunter. “I will make an example out of you. Be honored that you will die by my hands, you piece of scum.”

Kar Drue was ready to pulverize the hunter, but the hunter smiled like death didn’t matter to him and in a low voice, he spoke clearly.

“My queen… is not that weak.”

As the hunter finished those words, the sky was covered in blood-red color, as if the sun was setting on the horizon. But it wasn’t a sunset, it was the countless flame shaped like swords in the sky, burning ardently, scorching the air like a furnace, and raining down furiously.

General Kar Drue’s mouth parted in disbelief as the carnage happened in front of his eyes. The countless flame shaped like swords in the sky rained down ferociously, setting everything ablaze, wreaking havoc to the center of the valley. Monsters, soldiers, and sorcerers were burnt beyond recognition.

The Mistress of Flame? No! It can’t be her! She was weakened by the moonrite stone! The devastation in front of him caused General Kar to stagger back. What happened?! Who did this?! The flame sorcerers? No… that attack was too formidable to be done just by anyone! It must be the Mistress of flame. Only she could do this kind of destruction! Does that mean the moonrite stone doesn’t work on her anymore?

Knowing that the hunter was closed to death, Kar didn’t hesitate to leave and run back to the center of the valley. And as he neared the center, that’s when Kar fully realized the true destruction that that formidable flame attacked had caused. The center of the valley was scorched and levelled, string of flames still lingers on the levelled soil, and the most terrifying of all was that no one was alive, both the kingdom and the empire’s elite soldiers and high-tier sorcerers were gone.

All burnt beyond recognition.

And the Mistress of Flame was nowhere to be found.

Warlord Hakkeran! At that thought, General Kar ran around, looking for a sign that Hakkeran was alive, but all he could find was his second-best weapon on the ground, burnt and other parts were melted as if it was exposed to such high heat. Did he use this to protect himself?

General Kar looked around. The warlord was strong, Kar was sure that he was alive somewhere and only got blasted away by that insanely strong flame attack.

I need to find him and regroup!

♕ ♕ ♕

GRATH MOUTH was agape when he witnessed the most formidable flame attack he had ever seen in his life! And in an instant, he knew it wasn’t the queen nor the unconscious Zassia on his shoulder. It was someone else, but who?! The battlefield was chaotic that it was hard to identify the attacker. Grath had no idea, and he didn’t linger to find out who. His order was to keep Lady Zassia safe and that’s what he’s going to do.

So Grath ran with Zassia on his shoulder while the monsters were still disoriented after that attack. He didn’t look back, didn’t stop, and didn’t hesitate. He left his queen and Lord Hakken behind like he was ordered to. And he will do what he was ordered to, even if it cost him his life.

♕ ♕ ♕

THE SOLDIERS who were left behind by the warlord and General to chase the Mistress of Flame were busy fighting for their life as they advanced, and the aster path disappeared. The kingdom’s soldiers were left to Lieutenant Grezon while the empire’s soldiers— more like the warriors under Warlord Hakkeran— was left to Gabin. The soldiers Hakkeran took and introduced as elites to General Kar were mostly the empire’s army.

And when Gabin saw that, he knew his excellency was planning something dubious again. And he was not mistaken. When he heard the first explosion, he deduced that the elites’ soldiers and high-tiers sorcerers finally caught up with the queen. Gabin was certain that his lordship was now happy seeing the queen up-close again, but if they already caught up, then the queen was now in the trouble because of the stones the high-tiers sorcerers were carrying, and his excellency will not just stand on the side.

Once again, Gabin was right. Because not a moment later, even from great a distance, he saw his excellency’s wrath.

“Commander,” a warrior came up to Gabin and asked in a low voice while looking at the blood-red sky. “Is that… is that what I think it is?”

Gabin nodded and sighed. “His excellency must be really angry to use it.”

The warrior’s mouth parted open in amazement. His excellency is really powerful!

The warrior was amazed, but Gabin was sighing and massaging his forehead because he knew what that attack meant. His excellency was mad, he did it for the queen and now he had to clean up his excellency’s mess. No wonder he ordered me to stay back and look after the Adral warriors. Did he plan this? Gabin will not be shocked if his excellency did. His lordship was a madman after all.

Sighing heavily again, Gabin ordered the Adral warriors to get ready to enter the center of the valley of bones, but after Gabin saw the state the center of the valley was in, he secretly named it a scorched valley since everything, and everyone was scorched to death.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 44

CHAPTER 44

FROM oblivion to pitch black darkness, Sollel suddenly opened her eyes and abruptly sat up. Feeling disoriented and frantic, she immediately delved into her own memories to remember what happened and to figure out where she was. After the moonrite stone drained me, Zassia used her flame to keep me safe from everyone. Then after that… It was hazy . All she could remember was that when the flame cage disappeared and just as she was waiting for the high-tiers sorcerers attacks, the sky became red, and she lost consciousness.

Sollel focused all her attention on her body, checking if she had wounds or any damaged. A breath of relief escaped her lips when she found that there was nothing amiss in her body. She was perfectly fine.

Then her eyes dropped to her wrist when she felt a foreign object around it.

An exquisite shackle bracelet with an intricate design – it was beautiful, but still a shackle.

In less than a second, Sollel had the shackle in her right hand checked and her eyes narrowed on the little stone on the center of her new bracelet. Her eyes widened when she realized what is was!

A moonrite stone?!

Realizing that, Sollel immediately checked her flame essence. She was more than a hundred percent certain that the stone on the shackle was a moonrite stone, but it was not draining her. Instead, it was limiting her strength.  Not too week that someone could pick on her without dying, but not too strong that she could kill a warlord.

Who put this on me and where am I?

Wherever she was, it was dark and dry. Not seeing a damn thing, she flicked her fingers and a flame with the size of her fist floated in the air. The second her surroundings brightened, she quickly realized she was in a cave. Roaming her squinted eyes around, she narrowed her eyes on the corner of the cave when she saw a figure leaning on the cave’s wall as if sleeping.

Sollel carefully got up and her flame followed beside her as she walked towards the figure and her lips parted when she saw who it was.

Warlord… Hakkeran.

Sollel raised her right hand to look at the shackle on her wrist and then looked at the warlord again.

He put this on me, afraid that I might kill him? How adorable.

Without making a sound, Sollel carefully kneeled beside Hakkeran to check if he was carrying important that would interest her.

No weapons. No bag. No water canteen. No, nothing. Sollel frowned at the warlord’s handsome face before she started patting his leather armor to look for hidden items that she might find useful. When her hands dropped down to the warlord’s waist, her gaze was stolen by the item he wore on both his wrists.

A bangle made of pure smiydian, the strongest metal in Azitera that only the dwarves could melt and cast. And in the center of that bracelet, like a filling, was a lava-like liquid. It was beautiful that Sollel couldn’t help running her thumb over it.

So, you have it. Sollel thought.

Sighing to herself, Sollel got up when she picked up a sound of a running water outside. After turning one left and one right, Sollel finally reached the entrance to the cave. Commanding the floating flame beside her to disappear, she stepped out from the cave and looked around.

Pure white snow. Everything was covered in ice.

Sollel’s eyes widened when she realized where she was. The shivering valley?

Hurriedly, Sollel followed the sound of water and found it just behind the cave’s entrance. It was a four-meter-wide straight-channel stream, separating the shivering valley from the valley of bones. Half of the stream was filled with fog because of its cold temperature, while the other half was just a normal stream. It was too strange that it made her frown in curiosity.

This is the stream that Hakken was talking about. Sollel smiled when she remembered teasing Hakken about it. Hmm… A bath would be nice. With that thought, Sollel looked around. After sensing that there was no one present, she took off her damaged cloak, followed by her clothes and took them all to the stream to clean it then dried it with her flame before excitedly dipping herself in the water.

The stream was not deep, only reaching below her breast.

Sollel hissed and flinched when cold seeped through her body, but she didn’t mind because a moment later, her blood flame felt violated by the cold that her body started releasing heat, making the water around her boil. For others, even to a high-tier flame sorcerer, the boiling water will scald their skin and inside, but to Sollel, it was a perfect temperature for bathing, and she was enjoying it.

Until she heard rapid footsteps and heavy breathing on the surface behind her.

Sollel didn’t need to turn around to figure out who it was, instead, she continued bathing herself, caressing and cleaning her skin and taking a dip, casually swimming, and enjoying the water. After a while, she spoke, knowing that the warlord was still behind her, watching her.

“You like watching a woman bath?”

Sollel was so used to teasing Hakken and seeing his reaction that she was stunned when Hakkeran answered her straightforwardly without a hint of embarrassment.

“If the woman was you, then my answer is yes.”

Sollel turned her head and looked at the warlord over her shoulder. Sollel was not surprised to see the warlord’s eyes on her back. Her long, vibrant red hair was draped on her shoulder, baring her back to the warlord where her mark of flame was located. A mark of a deity’s blessing. Inked in her skin.

“You see something you like?” Sollel asked again in a teasing tone.

Hakkeran’s eyes were still on Sollel’s back. “Yes.”

Sollel smiled, pleased. “You like the flame on my back?”

“What’s not to like?”

Sollel chuckled and dipped her body to cover her breast before she turned to Hakkeran and raised her wrist above water to show him her beautiful shackle. “Do you really have to put this on me? Afraid I might kill you since we’re enemies?”

“Something like that,” Hakkeran sat on the ground, facing Sollel, his eyes never leaving hers. “The moonrite stone is too small to drain your strength, but it’ll be enough to limit your flame.”

Sollel nodded like she understood why Hakkeran did it. “And?” Sollel dipped her hands back into the water. “What happens next?”

With no hesitation, Hakkeran answered. “You are my prisoner, and I will drag you back to the empire.”

“Hmm… But we’re already in the shivering valley.” Sollel spoke calmly as she cleaned her hair. “We’re too far away from the empire.”

“I will meet up with the General of Treterra in the hallowed valley, from there, we will ride my gryphon to the empire.” Hakkeran said without an ounce of emotion on his face. “I won’t let you escape me this time.”

Sollel happily swam around the water where Hakkeran could keep an eye on her. “Say, warlord,” Sollel looked at Hakkeran, “since I have no way to escape and we’ll be spending a lot of time together, how do you like me to address you?”

“Anything you want, Your Highness.”

“Hmm…” Sollel acted like she was thinking, and she looked so adorable while doing so that a small smile appeared on Hakkeran’s lips, but he immediately wiped it off. “How about I call you ‘my lord’?”

“Whichever you prefer, Your Highness.”

Sollel looked at Hakkeran and inwardly sigh. He’s no fun. Ah, I miss my Hakken’s reaction already. He’s much more fun than this man.

Sollel continued bathing. Truthfully, she still had a question for Hakkeran, but she wanted to loosen his guard down a bit, so she kept swimming, enjoying the water before she fired another question.

“I don’t remember much about what happened in the valley of bones, but were you the one who took me to that cave?”

“Yes.” Hakkeran was still guarded much to Sollel’s disappointment.

“I remember the sky going red,” Sollel leaned her body back to stare at the sky. “What happened?”

“Someone unleashed a powerful attack. I need you alive, so I picked you up and took you here.”

Sollel raised her wrist above water again. “And this is the only moonrite stone you got?”

“I got a big one, you want?”

“No. This is fine.” Sollel stared at her shackle bracelet. “I just don’t like shackles. Brings back bad memories.”

Hakkeran didn’t reply, so Sollel passed her time enjoying the stream. Not even once did Hakkeran asked her to finish bathing. He just let her be until she was satisfied and for that, Sollel didn’t feel like she was a prisoner as Hakkeran puts it. It was more like Hakkeran was putting up with her and it intrigues her.

“I’m coming out of the water now,” Sollel announced while waiting how Warlord Hakkeran would react.

Hakkeran got up and  out of nowhere, a cloak appeared in his hand, and he handed it to her. “Here. Use it to cover yourself”

After Sollel accepted it, Hakkeran turned around to give the queen her privacy.

After covering her body with Hakkeran’s cloak, she put on her now dried and cleaned clothes and when she was about to take off Hakkeran’s cloak to replace it with her saviors’ cloak, she heard Hakkeran speak.

“Keep the cloak, your old one is already in tattered.”

Sollel looked at her old cloak before carefully folding it. “I don’t want to part with my old cloak.”

Hakkeran sighed and walked towards Sollel. “Give it to me.”

Sollel listened to Hakkeran just to see what he’s going to do. When she placed the folded cloak on his hand, it disappeared without a trace. And that’s when Sollel saw his ring. “Is that an item enchanted by the Druids?”

“Yes. It’s kind of my bag. Sort of.”

Sollel nodded and smiled. “I’m glad they’re still living peacefully.”

“Not really. Some were sold as slaves, some were extorted and taken advantage of.”

Sollel froze. “What…?”

Hakkeran stood up in front of Sollel and fixed her cloak like they were not prisoner and jailor. “They’re suffering, Your Highness. Always praying for Queen Gatria’s blessing and protection, but to no avail. When the four queens disappeared, it was their race that got destroyed by the humans first after Yther’s downfall. The humans value the Druid’s ability to enchant items, but they don’t like to work alongside them as equals.”

Sollel clenched her fist. “Humans again.”

“Is there any other race greedier than humans, my Queen?” Hakkeran held Sollel’s hand and slid a ring on her finger with a tiny moonrite stone before he took off the shackle bracelet on her wrist. “If this ring brings back bad memories too, informed me right away. I have a necklace with moonrite stone too, if you want.”

Sollel looked at the ring as a lava-like liquid swirled in her eyes. Afterward, she remembered the king of Druids, one of the races that was loyal to Gatria. “King Tirac… Is he still alive?”

“I believed so.” Hakkeran finally let go of Sollel’s hand after securing the ring on her finger. “As far as I know, he’s imprisoned in hallowed valley too, since his ability to enchant object surpasses any Druids. After the Kingdom of Treterra became barren, enchanted items became the kingdom’s bread and butter.”

Anger boiled inside Sollel that her flame covered her right hand— but a flame didn’t manifest on her left hand that had the moonrite ring. But her anger dissipates when Hakkeran held her right flaming hand like it was nothing and placed a hand chain on her wrist and slid the ring connected to the bracelet on her finger.

The hand chain had a firestone on the center of the bracelet shaped like a crown. The ring connected to it had the same design. And the chains were made of smiydian, the strongest metal in Azitera.

But that was not the thing that shocked the Mistress of flame, it was the fact that the warlord wasn’t burnt after touching her. Is it because of the bangles on his wrist? It accepted him? But, how?

And the stone… Was that a firestone?

Sollel stared at Hakkeran who was still carefully fixing the hand chain on her wrist, as if he wanted it to look perfect and beautiful in her hand. I’m sure he knows that I can absorb the essence of the firestone to strengthen myself. Is he testing me?

Sollel sighed at Hakkeran. “Am I really your prisoner?”

“Yes, you are, my queen.”

Sollel raised an eyebrow. “I feel like you’re spoiling me though.”

“Can’t I spoil my prisoner?”

Sollel blinked at Hakkeran numerous times. She was lost for words. Really lost.

“Prisoners don’t usually get important and expensive items,” Sollel was talking about the hand chain on her wrist.

“You must have stayed in the wrong prison then. If it was my prison, I will even give you the whole world if you asked.” And for the first time, the warlord smiled and Sollel just stared at him, a little dazzled by that smile.

Then, the warlord lost his smile and became expressionless again. “Anyway, smiydian is usually a very tough metal, even your normal fierce flame can’t melt it. Though your blood flame is a different case. It can melt smiydian in no time. However, because of the moonrite ring on your finger, your blood flame is limited.”

Sollel gaped at Hakkeran in disbelief. She couldn’t understand what the warlord’s thinking. He put a moonrite ring on her left hand, and then he put a hand chain firestone in her right hand, as if he wanted to balance the effect of the moonrite ring on her? He’s not a madman, is he?

The moonrite will keep draining her strength slowly, while the fire stone will recover her lost strength.

Sollel was curious to hear the warlord’s answer, so she asked as she raised her hand with a hand chain. “What’s the use of this? Why did you put it on me?”

“I have my reasons.” Then he motioned his hand towards the cave. “Night is falling, and shivering valley is known for its blizzard at night, so we better go back inside.”

Sollel silently listened to Hakkeran and went back to the cave. As she sat on the ground, she thought of Zassia, Grath and Hakken. She was certain that Hakken was fine, but Grath and Zassia? She just hoped that Hakken would take care of those two until they see each other again.

Sollel turned her head when she saw Hakkeran entered the deepest part of the cave with a lamp in his hand. Then in silence, he started working on the corner of the cave, the part where the soil was leveled. And by working, Sollel meant taking a pillow, a single-sized mattress, and a blanket from his enchanted ring and then offered the whole set of bed to her.

“You can rest here,” he said. “I’ll stand guard.”

Sollel didn’t know what to say. She was beyond speechless at that point that she just silently gets into the bed, covered her body with the provided soft blanket, and sleep on the soft and very comfortable pillow.

Now, she was certain. She was not a prisoner. How could she be, when her jailor treats her like a queen?

CECELIB | C.C.

SAMPLE OF HAND CHAIN

FROM PINTEREST.

CHAPTER 45

CHAPTER 45

I AM being treated as a queen, Sollel thought when she woke up in the morning and breakfast was already ready and served. Sollel didn’t even know how Hakkeran managed to make her a cup of tea and a plate with bread— hell, they’re in a cave in the shivering valley, one of the deadliest valleys in Azitera, and here she was, having tea and bread for breakfast. Like she was in some kind of an expensive inn.

Sollel didn’t know what to say anymore. It had been a long, long time since a person made her speechless in more ways than one.

But it was not bad— yes, not bad at all.

She finished her breakfast and made her ‘bed’ and went looking for Hakkeran. She found him in the back of the cave, in the stream, bathing. And she did what anyone would in her situation— she watched.

I didn’t know his hair is long enough to reach his shoulder. When she saw him up-close yesterday, his light brown hair was tied back neatly with few strands draping on his forehead, giving him a neat, but messy look.

Sollel walked towards the riverbank and crossed her arms over her chest. “Good morning, my lord.” She said teasingly and Hakkeran just turned to her and stared. She was expecting a more adorable reaction like Hakken, maybe, but nothing. He just stared at her and nodded, then went back to bath.

Sollel sighed. For a man who’s treating me nicely, he’s very… cold and distant.

“Thanks for the breakfast.” She said to start a conversation.

But Hakkeran was silent, just bathing. And just when Sollel thought he would not speak, he did… hesitantly. “Did you… enjoy your breakfast?”

“Yes. Thank you. I enjoyed it.”

Hakkeran had his back on Sollel, so she didn’t see him smile at her answer. “Get ready. We’re leaving in an hour. We have to find shelter before nightfall, so we have to move early and quick or we’ll die in the blizzard.”

“You will,” Sollel smiled knowing how much her blood flame hates cold. “But I won’t.”

Hakkeran finished his bath and came out of the water. “Yes. I know. You don’t have to be so happy about it.”

Sollel had to keep her face straight when the shameless warlord came out naked and brazenly walk past her. But she was more brazen because her eyes followed him and watched him walk back to the cave, naked. Her eyes were enjoying the view of his perfectly shape buttocks.

Sollel sighed and shook her head. He was shameless, but his body and little Hakkeran were looking great, I gave him that. Sollel massaged her temple at the thought that was rushing in her head. All inappropriate that she found herself blushing. Hakken was adorable, but he never made me blush, Sollel thought. Maybe because Hakken was modest, reserved and prude in so many ways and that made him adorable in her eyes.

Sollel shook her head to clear it and took a deep breath. Let’s focus on Gatria. I can deal with Hakken and Hakkeran afterwards. For now, it’s Gatria.

“Ready, Your Highness?” Hakkeran asked from behind her, fully dressed, as if she was not a prisoner as he said.

Sollel composed herself and turn around. “Yes. I’m ready.”

Leaving the cave, Hakkeran and Sollel started traversing the shivering valley. There was no route, no, nothing but snow, however, Hakkeran’s every step seems certain, carrying a confidence that they’re going on the right path and Sollel just followed him.

The cold didn’t bother her, and she could tell that it didn’t bother Hakkeran too.

Silently following Hakkeran and accepting his assistance when there’s a steep slope they had to pass, Sollel got used to Hakkeran’s help as they quietly traversed the shivering valley. From time to time, Hakkeran would offer her warm water from his water canteen, and he was quick to hold her hand when she needed support to balanced herself.

Only after a few hours did Sollel realize that she was not doing well in shivering valley. The sheer coldness seeped through her bones. Her body, especially the flame on her blood hates the cold. She knew she was slowing down, but what could she do? Her blood flame was doing its best to expel any cold temperature penetrating her body—it was everywhere and not just a normal cold either— that it was spending too much flame essence. And that meant exhaustion for her.

“Your Highness?”

Sollel raised her palm to stop Hakkeran from going back to her. “I’m okay. I’m just not used to this kind of cold that my blood flame is not doing well. I know shivering valley is cold, but not this cold.”

“Do you want to rest?”

Sollel shook her head and continued her steps. “I can manage until we reach the nearest cave we can find.”

“The nearest cave is still miles away from here. Can you hold out?”

Sollel nodded and continued walking while trying to limit the essence her blood flame was using to expel cold from her body. Her blood flame had a mind of its own when it comes to her safety and it was not doing well at the moment, but it was adapting to keep her safe from this sheer cold. Every step was hard because her feet get buried in the snow. She was too slow even how much hard she tries to go faster.

After few more hours like that, Hakkeran couldn’t take it anymore, he turned around and picked Sollel up in his arms.

“I hate cold.” Sollel couldn’t help complaining after experiencing coldness in shivering valley. She thought she could use her flame essence to fight it, but her blood flame was eating up all her essence while trying to adapt to the environment.

“Shivering valley is the deadliest valley in Azitera,” Hakkeran spoke as he traversed the iced covered valley with her in his arms, close to his chest. “Even a powerful being like you will have a hard time surviving here.”

Sollel was too exhausted to complain about her situation and just let her head rest on Hakkeran’s chest. “But you can. Why is that? I’m pretty sure my flame is much stronger than what you’re using to protect yourself from cold.”

“Practice.”

“Practice?”

“Hmm.”

“So, this is not your first here in shivering valley?”

“Yes. I died here once.”

Died here? Sollel stared at the warlord. “What were you doing that you died here?” At this temperature, no one would come here just for fun.

“Mapping the valley.” Hakkeran answered while his eyes were focused forward. “Looking for the best route, the easiest path to take and where to take shelter when a blizzard hits at night.”

“And you died for it? Why the effort?”

“Because someone important to me will traverse this valley and I want them to be safe. I want them to cross the shivering valley with minimal damage.” A small smile appeared on Hakkeran’s lips. “Dying here was worth it.”

Sollel frowned at the warlord’s last words, before Sollel’s face softened. “That ‘someone’ is lucky to have the warlord of Sappher’s backing. You deserved hundreds of thank you’.”

Hakkeran shook his head. “No. I don’t need it. I just want that person to be safe. That’s all that matters to me.”

Sollel became somehow overcome with emotion that she had to close her eyes to stop it from watering, but tears still fell from her eyes. And seeing the queen cry, the composed and expressionless Hakkeran started to show emotion.

“Your Highness, are you okay? Are you feeling well? Talk to me.”

Sollel tears fell ever harder that she crossed her arms and put them over her eyes to cover them from the warlord’s worried gaze.

“Your Highness!” Hakkeran have now stopped walking. “Talk to me—”

“I’m fine, Hakkeran.” Sollel was doing her best to contain her emotion. “I just… It just came to me that maybe, if I had someone like you back then, maybe, maybe I wouldn’t have suffered so much. But you’re a descendant of Sappher… We’re not exactly an ally.”

“My queen, my loyalty is not to my race, but to my heart. And the person who owns my heart will have my undying loyalty and fidelity.”

“Then that person is very lucky.” Sollel wiped the tears off her face that had become frozen and smiled at Hakkeran. “When I met you in that clearing, I know you’re not that bad. You’re adorable even, but compared to my Hakken, you have a long way to go.”

It didn’t escape Sollel’s eyes how the warlord’s face darkened. “Hakken? The hunter who was with you?”

Sollel nodded with a happy smile. “He’s so prude, which makes him so adorable. I like teasing him a lot and seeing his reaction.”

Hakkeran’s face darkened even more. “The last I remember, he was being crushed to pulp by General Kar.”

Sollel shrugged. “I’m sure Hakken is fine.”

“After receiving two direct attacks from General Kar’s war hammer, I’m sure he’s dead.”

Sollel shrugged nonchalantly. “I’m sure he’s fine. He’s still going to fight the whole world for me, so I’m sure he’s still alive.” Sollel closed her eyes. “I’ll rest for a little bit while my blood flame is doing its best to adapt. I will leave my safety to you, my lord.”

“… Of course, my queen.”

♕♕♕

SOLLEL WOKE UP in a cave again, but this time, it was not dark. There was a lamp a meter away from her comfortable ‘bed’ again. Hakkeran. She instantly got up and looked for him. She found him near the entrance to the cave, leaning on the cave’s wall with his eyes closed, sleeping. He must be tired after carrying me.

She was about to leave Hakkeran alone to rest when she saw him slightly shivering and his bracelet’s immediately glow red and a thin veil appeared and covered Hakkeran’s body from the neck down to his feet, warming and protecting him.

Sollel’s lips parted in shock. She recognized the bracelet he was wearing the first time she saw him in the cave even if it changed appearance to suit Hakkeran’s stature, but she was not certain if it was working for him.

But now…

Sollel leaned down and touched the bracelet on Hakkeran’s wrist, then imbue it with her flame essence.

If this works, then it really is my Solaris and my Solaris accepted him.

Sollel’s lips slowly parted when the bracelet accepted her flame and glowed brightly as if it has woken up from its slumber.

Sollel took a deep breath and looked at the glowing red bracelet— Solaris was its name — on Hakkeran’s wrists. She was now certain that it was the thing that kept Hakkeran’s body warm while traversing the valley earlier. That, and practice. Hakkeran did say that he had been coming to the shivering valley to map. She was positive that as Hakkeran was mapping the valley, her Solaris was adapting to the cold like how her blood flame was adapting now.

That means, Solaris had been keeping Hakkeran safe since it was taken away from her.

And for that to happen…

Sollel carefully held Hakkeran’s hand and run her fingers over his bracelet. To be able to wear Solaris on both his wrists, Hakkeran had to be as loyal to the Mistress of flame as Solaris and prove his worth to earn Solaris’ protection.

Sollel took a deep breath as she withdraws her hand and stared at Hakkeran’s handsome face. He’s loyal to me. No wonder he treats me like his queen even when his mouth says otherwise. But he wanted to drag me back to the empire knowing that there’s tons of moonrite stone there. That means Hakkeran was planning something, but not to betray her, because the moment Solaris felt even a sliver of betrayal in Hakkeran, Solaris will burn him inside out. So, what is he planning?

Sollel sat on the ground facing Hakkeran and stared at the warlord until he woke up from Sollel’s intense gaze.

“Your… Highness…?” Hakkeran blinked before he sat up straight. “Do you need anything? Oh, are you hungry?”

Sollel had so many questions for Hakkeran, but she didn’t voice them out because he’s just going to lie anyway, she was sure of that. Just like someone she knows.

Hakken and Hakkeran is seriously making my head hurt.

“I… I just don’t want to be alone in there.” Sollel glanced towards the deepest part of the cave and looked at Hakkeran again. “How are you?”

“I’m fine. You should eat.” From his ring, a bread appeared on his open palm, and he handed it to her.

Sollel accepted it, then split the bread in half and she gave the half to Hakkeran who accepted after hesitating for a second. “You should eat too.”

With that, Sollel and Hakkeran shared the same bread and eat silently while the blizzard was wreaking havoc outside the cave. Sollel didn’t like talking to strangers, but Hakkeran was a different case. He was hardly a stranger to her.

“I have a question; will you answer me?” Sollel asked afterwards.

Hakkeran looked at the queen. “I’ll try.”

Sollel nodded and asked her question after a moment of thinking about it. “You said you died here in the shivering valley; how did it happen?”

Hakkeran blinked at the queen. “You’re asking how I died instead of how I’m alive after I died?”

Sollel nodded. “I know about the Sappher’s arcane ritual of rebirth.”

Hakkeran nodded in understanding. “Oh. Okay. Um, I died horribly.”

Sollel waited for the continuation, but there was nothing. That was the end of it. “That’s it?”

Hakkeran leaned back on the cave’s wall again while fumbling his bracelet. “The details are not that important. I died after mapping the valleys. That’s it. Then I choose rebirth. That’s it too.”

Sollel took a deep breath and summon a floating flame with the size of her fist and started poking and playing with it. “That person must be really important to you for you to risk your life like that.”

“I love her.” Sollel could feel Hakkeran’s eyes on her, but she didn’t look his way and just continued playing with her floating flame. “Always have, always will. There is no me if there was no…” you, Hakkeran continued it on his mind as he paused and cleared his throat. “Anyway, what’s with the sudden interest, Your Highness?”

“I’m just curious who my jailor is.” Sollel smiled while still poking the floating flame that was now jumping up and down as if it was happily playing with Sollel too.

“I’m curious though,” Sollel continued questioning Hakkeran subtly. “How did a descendant of Sappher, like you, ended up in the empire? I mean, the Sapphers I know would rather hone their skills in battle than participate in the bureaucracy.”

“My mother left her family and married the second prince of the empire.” Hakkeran answered, careful not to say too much. He was telling the truth though, well, as truthful as he could be. “And I received the warlord title after my father passed away. He was killed.”

Sollel just listened to Hakkeran even though there was a big hole in his story. He’s really working hard to lie to me. How adorable. Should I give him a prize?

“After what your mother did, the Sapphers still accepted you?”

Hakkeran nodded. “I’m a descendant. A warlord.”

“Then, while you’re the second price’s son, have you heard of me being imprisoned in the bottom of the city of Faberion.”

“Yes.”

“Did you visit me in my prison cell?”

“No.”

“Not even a peek?”

“I didn’t.”

Sollel took a deep breath and willed her floating flame to vanish before she stood up. “Well, it was nice talking to you, my lord. I will take my leave now and rest.”

Sollel silently returned to her ‘bed’ and closed her eyes to rest. Though she couldn’t sleep, her eyes remained close and her breathing even for hours as she lay on her bed.

That was until she felt Hakkeran’s presence that she had to do her best not to give away that she was not asleep. And when Hakkeran sat on the edge of her bed and felt his stare, Sollel became curious, but her breathing was controlled to look like she was sleeping deeply.

However, when she felt Hakkeran’s hand cupped her face, her breathing hitched a bit and just when she was about to control her breathing again, she heard him whisper softly— almost lovingly, at the same time painfully.

“I love you, my queen.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 46

CHAPTER 46

AFTER SPENDING all her essence, Zassia was still recovering, slowly. When she woke up, she found herself in a cave and Grath was standing guard. Even from the inside of the cave, Zassia could feel the coldness seeping through her bones.

“W-where are we?”

When Grath heard Zassia’s voice, the relief he felt was palpable. “Lady Zassia… How are you feeling?”

Zassia pushed herself to get up and sit. “My strength is slowly coming back. Where are we, Grath? Where’s Her Highness? What happened? Is she okay?”

Grath sighed and sat on the ground. “I don’t know. After Her Highness ordered me to take you away and protect you, there was no news about her. Lord Hakken said he’ll meet us somewhere close to the stream dividing the valleys with the queen, but it’s been two days.”

Hearing that the queen was still missing, Zassia tried to get up. “We have to go back, Grath. Her Highness needs us—” but Zassia was still too weak to stand.

Grath shook his head at Zassia and firmly spoke that could get Zassia to understand. “We’re not leaving this cave. We will wait for Lord Hakken and the queen here. You’re still weak and I’m still recovering my full strength. If we came back, we will just be a burden to them. I believe in Lord Hakken, he’ll protect the queen.”

Zassia could only fist her knuckles knowing Grath was correct. She was still weak. But she was worried! She couldn’t forget the sight of her highness kneeling on the ground, weakened. It scared her.

“If… If Cira was here, what would she do?” Zassia asked in a whisper. “She’ll know what to do for sure.”

Grath sighed, hearing Zassia’s doubt and insecurities. “Lady Zassia, we all have an important role to play as her highness’ companion in this journey. Lady Cira is now doing her best somewhere else, so we should do our best here too. And you’ve already proven your strength to the queen. You protected her with everything you got. I’m sure the queen is happy to see you getting stronger.”

A tear fell from Zassia’s eyes. “I just want to be useful and serve Her Highness right. I’m her student and I want to be worthy of that title.”

Grath smiled softly at Zassia. “I’m sure Her Highness thinks of you as a worthy student. Just rest here and recover your strength. Let’s wait for Lord Hakken and Her Highness.”

Zassia nodded and went back to resting. She was worried, but she needed to recover her strength to be more useful to her highness. She didn’t want to lose the only being left in Azitera who believed in her. She already lost everyone she loved; her grandfather was in hiding — she only had her highness now.

Zassia closed her eyes to rest. Maybe because she was still too weak, she instantly fell asleep. When she woke up, it was already nighttime, and she could hear two voices.

Grath, and Lord Hakken.

Hearing the two, Zassia did her best to get up and followed the voices outside the cave.

“My lady will be fine.” It was Lord Hakken’s voice and he sounded so confident that Zassia believed that. “She’s strong — she’s the Mistress of flame. What we need to do now is to cross the shivering valley and reach the Hallowed valley as soon as we can. I’m sure my lady will do the same and we’ll meet her there.”

“But—”

“Grath,” Hakken’s voice was pleading. “We can’t lose our heads now. My lady is not here, so we have to decide for ourselves. Our queen is not weak, Grath, always remember that. She’s strong and smart. I’m worried too, but we can’t waste our time scouring the whole valley of bones looking for her. We don’t have time and manpower to pull it off safely. We have to move now, or I’m leaving you two behind.”

“L-let’s listen to Lord Hakken…” Zassia’s weak voice came from the cave’s entrance.

“Lady Zassia!” Grath immediately went to Zassia’s side to assist her weak body. “You shouldn’t push yourself—”

Zassia shook her head. “I’m fine, Grath. Thank you for worrying.” Then she looked at Hakken. “Let’s listen to Lord Hakken, Grath. He’s right, Her Highness is safe. I don’t know how, maybe because she blessed me directly, but I felt it when she fell on her knees and became weak in the valley of bones. And as of the moment, I don’t feel that anymore, so it’s safe to assume that Her Highness is safe.”

Grath sighed and took a deep breath. “Okay, Lord Hakken. We’ll do what you say, but before we leave, let’s wait for your wounds to heal. No offense meant, but you look like one of the undead.”

Zassia couldn’t disagree with Grath. Hakken was covered in blood and there were bruises on his face and arms. Not only that, but his eyes were also bloodshot and all in all, he was a mess.

Zassia took out a medicine that Cira left in her care and gave it to Hakken. “Cira made it. It might help heal your internal wounds.”

Hakken thanked Zassia and Grath before he entered the cave to rest. Sitting on the corner of the cave, leaning on the wall, he closed his eyes and his lady’s face entered her mind. Her happy and laughing face— she was intoxicatingly beautiful. Ah, I want to see you, my lady. His whole body hurts, and he was aching all over because of the attacks he received from General Kar, but he still managed to smile knowing that his lady was safe. It’s what matters to him the most. His life meant nothing without her after all.

♕♕♕

THE DUO, Cira and Xeke arrived at the town of Ashmire, but didn’t dare enter seeing imperial armies all over the town’s entrance. Even from afar, Xeke and Cira could tell that the town had changed. The atmosphere was different. It was tense. Everything that goes in and out was being cheeked thoroughly like the soldiers were wary of everything.

“What happened here…?” Cira was stunned to see the town from miles away. Even at that distance, she could feel that something was different.

“Let me check.” Xeke volunteered and he just disappeared.

While waiting for Xeke’s return, Cira hid herself. She was used to Xeke disappearing and appearing out of thin air that she was not startled when he just appeared in front of her.

“So?” Cira asked.

Xeke let out a loud breath. “We’re everywhere.”

Cira frowned. “What do you mean?”

“I mean our faces are plastered everywhere in Ashmire. We’re wanted criminals, remember?”

Remembering that, Cira groaned in annoyance. “Great! Now, what?”

“I don’t know since you haven’t told me anything, especially where we’re going.” Xeke looked at Cira in the eyes. “Cira, how many times do I have to risk my neck for yours to earn your trust? I’m following you here like a blind man. Can’t you at least give something so I can understand what’s going on? Why we left the Mistress of Flame in Ager?”

Cira looked away. “I don’t trust you one bit.”

All Xeke could do was sighed. “Okay. I get it. You don’t have to tell me anything—”

“We’re going to the sacred forest.” Cira cut off Xeke and let out a loud breath.

Xeke stilled and narrowed his eyes at Cira. “Sacred forest…” of course, Xeke understood what Cira meant. “The Elven kingdom?”

“Yes.”

“Why? They vanished you, remember?”

“I don’t care.” Cira put her hands on her hips. “If I have to kill my way in, I will. I need to speak to their King.”

“Speak about what?”

“It’s confidential. So, are you coming with me? Or are you going to leave me here? Choose. I’m not going to force you.”

Xeke sighed as if giving up. “As if I could abandon the woman that I will die for.”

Cira looked away to hide the little redness on her cheeks. “Thank you.”

Xeke couldn’t help smiling seeing Cira being adorable for a second. “I have a plan. Do you trust me?”

Cira nodded her head. “Yes, but one wrong move and I’ll kill you.”

Xeke was so used to Cira’s threats that he just smiled and bowed his head like he was doing a curtsy. “Happy to die by your hands, my lady.”

Cira rolled her eyes. “So, what’s the plan?”

Xeke immediately strengthened his body and shared his plan. “I’ll scout, you follow. It’s safer and we’ll be faster.”

“Like what we did in the barren lands when we were travelling with everyone?”

“Yes.”

“Okay. Accepted. Let’s go.”

Xeke just sighed when Cira hurriedly walk past him. “Cira, I said I’ll scout, you follow.”

That made Cira stopped on her track. “Oh, yeah. Okay. Go.”

Xeke smiled and shook his head.

“Take care, okay?” Said Cira and Xeke nearly tripped on his feet.

Damn it! Xeke cussed while looking beet red before he vanished.

♕♕♕

AS HAKKERAN TOLD SOLLEL, he died in the shivering valley to map it and Sollel didn’t doubt it one bit. From morning to dawn, every time they traversed the shivering valley, Sollel didn’t feel any difficulty. After her blood flame adjusted to the cold, the shivering valley that was known as the deadliest of all the valleys in Azitera became nothing to Sollel.

“It’s steep. Be careful.” Hakkeran warned Sollel as he offered his hand to Sollel.

Sollel accepted Hakkeran’s hand and let him assist her and when they were off the steep slope, Hakkeran let go of her hand making Sollel smile seeing Hakkeran’s jaw tightening as if he was trying to control something in him and he was having a hard time.

He looked really struggling, but Sollel was having fun watching.

He looked really struggling, but Sollel was having fun watching. Why is he so hell bent on lying to me? That’s what Sollel didn’t understand about Hakkeran. He was loyal to her, but he was lying to her. Was there something she was not supposed to know, was that it?

However, instead of ransacking her brain for answers that she could get from Hakkeran if given time, Sollel focused all her attention on absorbing the essence from the firestone on her hand chain.

Later on, as usual, and with ease, Hakkeran found a cave to stay out of the blizzard’s way at night. As always, Hakkeran set up Sollel’s ‘bed’ on the deepest part of the cave after making sure it was safe while he stays near the entrance as a guard.

Not wanting to be alone, Sollel left the deepest part of the cave and went to sit beside Hakkeran near the entrance.

“You should rest,” said Hakkeran.

“I’m not tired,” answered Sollel as she leaned on the cave’s wall. “Thanks to you, it has become easy to traverse.”

Hearing the queen, Hakkeran felt like it was all worth it— dying here alone and frozen. “Though it’s not going to be easy from tomorrow onwards. We’re reaching the center of the shivering valley where monsters who enjoys the cold lives and they are very territorial. They don’t like anyone, monster or man, to trespass in their land.”

But Sollel was not fazed. “They’re ice and I’m flame… I can handle them. I’ll save you this time around.”

Hakkeran couldn’t help the small smile that appeared on his lips. To hear that from his queen, he felt like all his hard work and perseverance in his four lifetimes paid off.

“You should smile more, my lord.” Sollel was peeking on Hakkeran’s face from the side. “You look more dashing when you smile.”

Hakkeran wiped the smile off his face before he turned to Sollel. “Travelling with you, Your Highness, I realized something.”

Sollel’s eyebrow raised. “Pray tell.”

Hakkeran looked into Sollel’s vibrant red eyes. “You are very coquettish.”

Sollel laughed at the word Hakkeran used. “I’m not coquettish just to anyone, my lord. I have my standards.”

“Is it safe to assume that I pass your standards?”

Sollel smiled mysteriously and didn’t answer. But her smile was enough to suggest to Hakkeran that ‘yes, he passed’.

“I thought you fancied the hunter who was with you.” Hakkeran leaned his back on the cave’s wall as well, mimicking Sollel.

“Who? Hakken?” A smile played on Sollel’s lips. “Hmm… I do like him.”

“So why the interest in me?”

Sollel gave Hakkeran a side glance like a queen teasing her favorite person. “My lord, may I remind you, I may not have my kingdom anymore, but I am a Queen. Why choose, when I can have both?”

Hakkeran’s face became blank. “I don’t like to share. If you’re mine, you’re mine.”

“So possessive,” Sollel muttered under her breath before peeking at Hakkeran’s face while a playful smile was on her lips. “Why not give it a try? I think Hakken and you will get along just fine. Hakken is nice and good, while you’re serious and kind of bad. Wouldn’t that be a perfect fit?”

Hakkeran turned his gaze at Sollel who had an ‘I’m having fun’ smile on her lips to read her, but he couldn’t. And maybe he was really messed up because he liked that he couldn’t read her. Of course, my queen is amazing, and after she was betrayed, no one can best her now.

“You’re my prisoner,” Hakkeran leaned the back of his head on the wall with his eyes closed as if telling Sollel that it was time to stop talking and rest. “There’s no me and you, Your Highness.”

“I don’t feel like I’m your prisoner, to be honest.” The playful tone on Sollel’s voice vanished and it made Hakkeran’s eyes snapped open. His gaze never leaving the queen as she got up and stood in front of him while looking down at him. “Without pretense and all, I will tell you this, Warlord Hakkeran Adral. I hate liars.” The lava-like liquid in Sollel’s pupil swirled fiercely as if conveying the Mistress of Flame’s dormant anger. “Now, if you still wanted to cross the shivering valley with me, be truthful. I’m not asking you to tell all your secrets, just stop this pretentious attitude of yours. Because this,” Sollel raised her hand to show Hakkeran the moonrite ring on her finger, “may stop me from killing you, but it won’t stop me from escaping you. I don’t care if you already mapped out the whole valley, I would go back to Hakken and this ring you put on my finger can’t stop me.”

That said, Sollel returned to the deepest part of the cave and went to bed.

Sollel honestly didn’t want to say those words to Hakkeran but hearing his love confession days ago and hearing him denies it now, it annoyed her because she felt like she was being played.

The only reason I’m tolerating you is because I think you’re—  Sollel’s thoughts were interrupted when she heard Hakkeran’s voice.

“Your Highness…?”

Sollel didn’t answer. And Hakkeran took Sollel’s silence as an invitation to sit near the foot of her bed.

“Are you mad?” Hakkeran asked while wanting to smack himself. He wanted to be as distant as possible so it’ll be easier for him to let her go once they reached the hallowed valley, but here he was, couldn’t stomach the thought that his queen might be mad at him.

This might ruin his plan, but at that moment, he didn’t care. It was easier to not care when his queen was so far away from him, when all he did was planned and pull the strings, but now he understood why that part of him always wanted to be with her.

She was intoxicating when far away and addictive when she was near.

Now he understood why ‘loving someone’ was a descendant of Sappher’s greatest weakness. Because he, who could fight the whole world without fear, feared that the woman he loves so dearly would discard him.

And it was not fair… Because she doesn’t love me the same as I love her. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 47

CHAPTER 47

HAKKERAN HAD been sitting on the foot of the queen’s bed for more than an hour, but she hadn’t said anything. She didn’t reply to Hakkeran’s question. Not a single word, but Hakkeran knew the queen was awake. He could hear her uneven breathing and her subtle movement on the bed. It was agitating him. The thought that the queen he adored didn’t want to speak with him by choice was disturbing him that he couldn’t concentrate.

It was vexing, but he had a plan. A solid plan. And this, whatever this was, it might destroy his plan.

Maybe this was better. Maybe this was for the best.

With that in mind, Hakkeran stood up and went back to the cave’s entrance. He just had to endure. What’s new? Nothing. Enduring pain and longing had always been his specialty.

I endured four lifetimes without her, I have no problem enduring one more.

Hakkeran sat on the ground and sighed. Instead of soothing his aching heart, he closed his eyes to concentrate and recall his plans. At the moment, everything was being ready in the empire. He needed more time to make sure that his plan would succeed, and the queen would give him that as she crossed the three valleys to get to Queen Gatria.

As long as his queen, the Mistress of Flame was making trouble and leaving burnt bodies in her wake, the empire and the kingdom’s attention will be solely focused on her and no one else’s. And I have to take advantage of that while everyone was preoccupied. He had three lifetimes to plan this. He wouldn’t let himself fail.

Hakkeran glanced in the direction where the queen was on her bed. He wanted nothing more than to talk to her, smile and laugh with her and just be with her, but he had more pressing matters to do.

He had to strengthen their prisoner and jailor relationship. It was more safer.

Hakkeran passed the night with that thought and when morning came, they went back outside to try to cross the center of Shivering valley. The queen was silent, not a word was said unlike their previous mornings where she would always greet him with a smile on her face as if she was looking forward to their day together. But, today, no greetings and she became colder than the valley.

Hakkeran was expecting this, but this was too much. The queen’s silence was deafening, as if she was silently telling him that this was how she treats people she hates and didn’t like. 

Dead silence.

She never, not even once, accepted his offered hand to assist her. She became this indifferent and strange person.

But his plan must go on.

Reaching the center of the valley at noon and hearing the howling of the beasts, Hakkeran readied his twin blade from his ring and gave one to Sollel which Sollel silently accepted.

“Don’t use strong flame attacks,” Hakkeran warned the queen. “We don’t want to trigger an avalanche.”

Sollel just nodded and blessed the blade in her hand with her own flame. It was a normal blessing, not a blood flame so the sword will hold out until broken.

Holding the now flaming sword in her hand, trying to find the right grip, and balance of the sword, Sollel heard a growl from the steep slope above them. Casting her gaze in the direction of the sound, she stilled when she saw a pack of bluish-white four-legged beasts. Nine feet in length, including their tail and five feet in height. It was huge and there were so many of them. Without using her flame, they’ll lose and be a beast food. But if she did, they’ll be buried in thick ice.

“They’re called snow topaz-furred Wildcat.” Hakkeran informed Sollel. “They’re fast and agile. Their claws are sharp and deadly. They attack in packs and one pack consist of fifteen to thirty members. But the most annoying part of them are their fur, it’s too thick to be penetrated so easily. Not only that, but they could also wield ice to some level to make ice sharp spears—”

Before Hakkeran could finish his words, sharp ice spears appeared out of thin air, floating in the air for a second before it was launched at them at full speed. In a blink of an eye, the ice spear reached them, but before it could hurt Hakkeran who was on the front, a thick wall of flame erected in front of him, blocking and melting all the ice spears.

Hakkeran turned to look behind him and saw the queen’s pupil swirling with lava-like liquid.

He was sure that the queen didn’t even move to block those attacks. She’s getting stronger. Good.

Sollel didn’t want to talk to Hakkeran, but she had to set aside her anger for a moment. She had to work with Hakkeran to get out of this situation they were in. “I’ll use my flame to protect you. Fight and make a way. I’ll be behind you.”

Hearing that from his queen, Hakkeran gripped his sword and run towards the beasts without fear. Sollel, who watched Hakkeran confidently attacked the beasts head on, erected a wall of flame on both sides like a wall protecting Hakkeran. Only leaving his front and back open.

Sollel watched Hakkeran fight with war blades in both hands and seeing him battle head-to-head with the pack of snow topaz-furred Wildcat, her conclusion of who he really was became even stronger as he swings and thrust his war blades.

Hakkeran on the other hand had no worries, except for the snow topaz-furred Wildcat in front of him, no beasts could even get close to him. Before they could, a wall of flame immediately erects to block those sharp claws and fangs and even how fast he moves, the wall of flame could keep up.

However, five snow topaz-furred Wildcat attacked him at once to overpower him, but before the beasts reached him, five bolts of flame from behind him passed him at the speed of light and before his eyes, the bolts of flame burned the five beats ganging up on him and penetrated its skin and incinerating their inside.

In just a few seconds, they died. And seeing the horrible state their kind was in, the remaining snow topaz-furred Wildcat run for their lives, afraid to be incinerated to death.

Hakkeran turned to look at Sollel.

Seeing the look Hakkeran was giving her, she shrugged nonchalantly. “It’s not a powerful attack that could cause an avalanche.”

Hakkeran wanted to massage his forehead because it was aching. “How is that not powerful?”

Sollel shrugged again. “It’s not. Honestly, the bolts of flame I conjured was only meant to tickle them and distract them to give you time to finish them all off.”

Hakkeran looked at the incinerated beasts around him. “This… Is your way of tickling?”

Sollel raised her hand to her face level and watched the bolts of flame hopped from her fingers to another, as if playing. “Why? Want me to tickle you too?”

Hakkeran put back his war blades in his ring and sighed. “No tickling. I’m fine.”

“You sure?”

“Very.”

Sollel shrugged and the bolts of flame hopping on her fingers disappeared. “Your loss.”

“I don’t think so,” Hakkeran muttered under his breath before going back to their route.

Sollel immediately followed behind while surveying their surroundings. The snow was thick and that’s when she realized that the center of the shivering valley was a mountain. That’s why Hakkeran warned her not to use any powerful flame attack that could trigger avalanched.

“Can’t we go around?” Sollel asked.

“We could, but it’ll be more dangerous and there are no caves in the area where we could stay at night. In all of the route I mapped out, this is the safest.”

Sollel sighed and looked up to the sky when she heard the sound of wings flapping. She squinted her eyes when saw a bird figure flying above them. “Is that… A white snow owl?”

Hakkeran cussed when he heard the queen. “Damn it! They’re man-eating white snow owl! Quick! Run!” He remembered the same kind of beast attacking him fiercely before he died years ago in this valley.

“Oh.”

Hakkeran grabbed Sollel’s hand and pulled her close to avoid separating and then, they ran.

But how could they outrun something that could fly? And how could they get away when two humongous snow grizzly bears with red angry eyes were blocking their way?

Hakkeran gritted his teeth and pulled his war blades from his ring. “I’ll take care of the bears.” He said to Sollel.

“I’ll take care of the birds.” Sollel immediately summoned back her bolts of fire and willed it to burn the owls above them, but her bolts of flame could only reach few meters. Her strength was not enough so she turned to Hakkeran who was busy fighting and asked. “Can I take off this moonrite ring?!” She shouted to be heard. “I promise not to kill you!”

“Come here!”

Sollel ran towards Hakkeran and when she reached him and he turned his back on the humongous beasts to take her ring off that she couldn’t take off herself, Sollel summoned a wall of flame to protect Hakkeran’s back.

“Don’t be complacent!” Sollel scolded Hakkeran for turning his back on the beasts.

Hakkeran shrugged. “I know you’ll protect me. You promised.”

Sollel sighed and was about to turn around and look up when she felt a burst of flame essence inside her. It was too sudden that she swayed on her feet and gripped her the center of her chest to feel her own body. And that’s when she felt it, two powerful flame essence joined her blood of flame, as if it had just been freed from its confinement.

Two flame essence… From who? Sollel didn’t remember taking a flame sorcerers’ essence. The last time she fed her blood flame was in the clearing and he already fully absorbed that flame essence.

Panting at the sudden surge of power inside her, she glanced at Hakkeran who was busy fighting the snow grizzly bears. What did he do to me? Whatever it was, when he took off the moonrite ring from her finger, her strength doubled and Sollel could feel that half of her strength was finally back. The moonrite ring… Did he put it on me to limit my flame, or did he put it on me so I can’t feel my essence recovering with the help of those two entrapped flame essences? So, I wouldn’t find out that he’s an ally and not a foe?

Sollel squeezed her eyes shut in annoyance because she couldn’t understand the warlord at all. Just like Hakken. She couldn’t understand him too!

With anger fueling her flame, it boiled, and bolts of flame erupted from her own body, and it shoots up to the sky. And with Sollel’s will, the bolts of flame moving at a speed of light stabbed and burned the man-eating owls above them. The few who dodged the bolts of flame, after seeing their kind being slaughtered by the fiercest flame, fear overruled them and they tried to escape, but the Mistress of Flame’s bolts of flame was nothing but persistent. It gave chase and slaughtered every flying beast it caught.

“Hmm…” The Mistress of Flame who was just watching her bolts of flame slaughtered the flying beasts hummed as if watching a good show. “So, it was not just a feeling. Half of my strength is back.”

Then Sollel looked at the hand chain bracelet on her wrist, it was glowing since Hakkeran took off the moonrite ring on her finger. It was unheard of for a firestone to glow this brightly unless they had been enchanted by Druids.

Ever since Hakkeran but it in her wrist, all she did was take its essence to balance the draining power of the moonrite ring. What would happen if she imbued it with her flame, now that she knew it had been enchanted?

With that train of thought, Sollel infused the firestone with her flame and watched it glow blindingly bright until the brightness dimmed, presenting her a fiery flaming bow.

Holding the bow in her hand, her blood flame that had forged countless of weapons in Infernal Empire felt the weapon’s origin. A bow made by the Dwarves, then passed to the Druids for enchantment, turning the bow to a hand chain. And then, it was put on her wrist. She was its first owner. Its first wielder.

Sollel stared at the flaming bow in amazement before she gripped and positioned it, then she pulled the bow string and conjured an arrow made of flame. Aiming it at the fleeing flying beast, she released, and, in a heartbeat, the beasts fell to the snow, dead and burnt beyond recognition.

“Amazing…” Sollel muttered under her breath before she withdraws her flame essence from the firestone, and it returned to its original form— a hand chain.

Sollel turned to Hakkeran who was still fighting with the humongous snow grizzly bears. Even though Hakkeran only had little wounds and he did a number on the bears, but instead of slowing the beasts down, it angered them even more. And since she was not allowed to use a powerful flame attack, she was left with one choice.

“Hakkeran! Step back!”

Immediately after Hakkeran jumped back, Sollel cut her palm with the war blade Hakkeran lent him and tossed her blood flame on the ground. Quickly heeding her will, her blood flame crawled in the snow, melting everything it touches as it surrounded the two bears. And before the beasts could react, the hot fervid flame rose, surpassing the height of the snow grizzly bear until it covered all of them, forming a cage made of flame.

This was Sollel’s powerful imitation of Zassia’s flame cage that saved her back in the valley of bones. Ah, my student is getting stronger.

Seeing the snow grizzly bear caged inside the flame cage, Sollel turned to Hakkeran, and her eyes met his. He was looking at her warily, as if she was about to do something nasty to him.

Sollel smiled at Hakkeran. “Relax. I promised not to kill you, remember?”

Hakkeran didn’t reply and just continued watching Sollel as she walked towards him.

Hakkeran didn’t move an inch when Sollel placed her palm on his cheek, as if she was cupping his face, their eyes never leaving each other. Then Hakkeran felt it, a burning sensation on his skin. He waited for his death by his queen’s hand with bated breath, but his death didn’t come. Instead, he saw his wounds being devoured by flame and as the flame disappeared, so did his wound.

“What…” Hakkeran was lost for words as he stared at Sollel. “What… Y-you— you have healing abilities too?”

“What?” Sollel frowned at Hakkeran before she shook her head. “Of course not. I’m not Gatria. I can only heal myself because of my blood flame.”

“Then… Why am I all healed up?”

Sollel shrugged and glanced at Solaris on Hakkeran’s wrists. “Don’t know. My blood flame must have really liked you.”

Hakkeran’s eyebrow furrowed even more. “What are you talking about?”

“I don’t know…” Sollel sighed before she gracefully offered her hand at Hakkeran. “The ring. Put it on.”

Hesitation flickered in Hakkeran’s eyes. “You want it back?”

“Hell, no.” Sollel grimaced. She hated anything that had moonrite in it. “But I figured, as long as I’m wearing it while we’re together, you won’t get into trouble even if we bumped into your pals in the empire and the kingdom.” Sollel sighed and waited for Hakkeran to slide the moonrite ring back on her finger.

“There,” Hakkeran rubbed his thumb against the moonrite ring that was not on Sollel’s finger. “Done.”

Sollel took a deep breath when she felt the effect of the moonrite ring almost immediately. Afterwards, she patted Hakkeran’s chest. “I don’t know what you’re thinking, my lord, but I know you’re planning something. And instead of ransacking my head to figure your plan out, I’ll just shrug my shoulder and let you do whatever you want.” She smiled nonchalantly, almost as if she was having the time of her life. “Surprise me, my Warlord Hakkeran Adral. If you managed to do that, who knows, I might forgive you for lying to me.”

Warlord Hakkeran Adral. Hunter Hakken Arages, Sollel thought as she turned her back on Hakkeran and smiled, alright, then. The queen accepts your challenge.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 48

CHAPTER 48

“ARE YOU familiar with the shivering valley, Lord Hakken?” Grath couldn’t help asking after two days of crossing the valley. Lord Hakken seemed to know which direction to take to avoid danger and he also knew where the caves were where they stay at night to stay away from the blizzard.

Hakken nodded at Grath while they were inside a cave, taking shelter. “Yes. Kind of. But as we reach the center of the valley, beats will come for us. There is no route that we can take to avoid them. It’s the only way.” He looked at Zassia who was in the corner, wrapped in a blanket. “Lady Zassia, please ready some simple, but powerful attacks. Though not so powerful that it will cause an avalanche. The center of this valley is a mountain of snow.”

Zassia nodded. “I will.”

Hakken’s gaze went back to Grath. “Since we both fight head on, we will be on the front and Lady Zassia will be on the rear.”

Grath nodded and summoned his fire on his hand. “For Her Highness, we have to safely cross this valley.”

Hakken nodded before he closed his eyes and leaned on the cave’s inner wall. He was not sleeping, just resting his eyes, so he heard when Zassia spoke.

“Lord Hakken, may I ask you something?”

Hakken nodded without opening his eyes.

Seeing Hakken nod, Zassia asked. “Do you personally know the queen?” When Hakken didn’t move to answer, Zassia added, “It’s just that, I know you like the Queen, but the way you look at Her Highness… It feels like different somehow.” When Hakken remained silent, Zassia look down. “I’m sorry for prying.” She immediately apologized, thinking that she asked something she shouldn’t have. “Please forgive me. I won’t ask that again.”

Zassia thought Hakken was angry because he continued to be silent, until he finally opened his mouth while his eyes remained closed.

“Yes. I know her,” Inside the silent cave, Hakken’s whisper sounded crystal clear. “Death is not the end when you are a descendant of Sappher, especially me who came from the first lineage of Sappher. I lived a long life and died so many times that I could count. As I continue to exist through rebirth after every death, life became monotonous to me. My life had no purpose—no meaning. I was just living… Existing. So, I made a pact with my trusted aide to only resurrect me if there was a change in Azitera— something that will entertain me,” Hakken’s lips formed into an amused smile. “And that day finally arrived. I went through a rebirth and as I reached adulthood, my life started to mean something again. Especially when the Sappher finally decided, after long deliberation, to wage war against Yther and its queens.

“But just when I was ready to go to war… I saw her,” Hakken’s face softened. “One of the queens of Yther. The Mistress of flame. Hair as vibrant as firestone and eyes as fierce as lava. She was beautiful. Not only that, but she was also benevolent, compassionate, and merciful. She bestowed flame on humans so they could protect and provide for themselves. She protects the weak and very friendly to every race. She believed in balance, in co-existing and peace. She was a queen in every sense of the word. And I fell in love.

Hakken took a deep breath and slightly opened his eyes like he was reminiscing. “I couldn’t make myself fight her, but I swore an oath that binds me to my promise. So, I fought with her and lost. I don’t think my lady remembers me. I was but an insignificant warrior whom she crossed blades with. Nothing special. Losing the war, the descendant of Sapphers scattered, leaving a vow that they would one day come back and take revenge on the queens of Yther.”

“So… You’re going to get revenge?” Zassia asked with her shaky voice.

Hakken chuckled at Zassia’s conclusion. “A descendant of Sappher only falls in love once in all their lifetimes— it was our race’s greatest weakness. So, how could I possibly hurt the woman whom I waited for three lifetimes?”

Zassia’s lips parted in astonishment. “Three… Lifetimes?”

“What a devotion…” Grath muttered under his breath.

“How… Does it feel to finally be with her?” Zassia was curious. Three lifetimes were no joke.

Hakken smiled as a little bit red tinted his cheeks. “It feels like being blessed by a deity every day.”

Zassia blushed at those earnest and profound words, but Grath had a different question in mind that destroyed Zassia’s smile.

“Where were you, Lord Hakken, when the humans betrayed our queen?”

All the soft emotion on Hakken’s face disappeared and his expression became cold and dark. “Chained to the wall and imprisoned. My father didn’t take it kindly when he found out that I’m in love with the Mistress of flame. When I managed to escape, with the help of my trusted aide, all I found was the burnt kingdom of Yther. And that’s when I received the news that my lady has died. That single news brought me to my knees, and I was overcome with grief, sorrow, and hatred that I have never felt before. The pain was excruciating. That’s when I understood why all of the descendants of Sappher who lost their beloved chose eternal death than rebirth. Because at that moment, I wanted to follow my lady, but alas, I have things to do. I decided that before I choose eternal death, I will bring the human race to its knees, and I will burn everything they hold dear. An eye for an eye.”

But he couldn’t do it— his grievance with humans were too deep that he couldn’t bear to be near them without losing his wits. Therefore, he made a perfect arrangement where he could slaughter them while walking among them. It was a perfect arrangement— a perfect cover.

Of course. Why wouldn’t it be? He spent two lifetimes arranging that perfect façade. Even though he lived for so long before he met his lady, he liked to believe that his life truly started after meeting her. Four lifetimes. Yes. His monotonous life from before didn’t count.

Ah, father would curse me to the depths of Azitera for even thinking about it.

“Does the queen know about this… about you?” Zassia asked again.

Hakken shook his head. “Maybe one day. But for now, I want to help her and be of use to her.”

Grath nodded at Hakken. “That’s a good idea, Lord Hakken. I admire your devotion and loyalty, I’m even rooting for you, but what the queen needs right now is not love, but assistance. I do not believe that meeting the queen is just a big coincidence. We have important roles to play as Her Highness’ companion. Whatever that is, I don’t know. But that’s what I believed in.”

Hakken smiled and nodded at Grath. “I believed that too.”

Zassia tightened the blanket around her. “Maybe you’re right about the queen needing assistance more than love, but when she’s with you, Lord Hakken, Her Highness’ face brightens. She smiles and laughs often. She looks happy. Maybe it’s just me, but I like Her Highness’ more when she’s with you. As much as I want to avenge what happened to Her Highness, I also want to see her happy.”

Grath sighed and used the firewoods they took from the valley of bones to keep the fire of their campfire going. And from the corner of his eyes, as the campfire glow brighter, he caught a sight of engravings on the cave’s wall.

“What’s that?”

Hakken, who was leaning near the engravings turned to see what it was.

He had already seen it when they entered the cave, but he acted like it was his first time seeing it.

“I can’t read it,” Zassia commented in surprised while narrowing her eyes on the cave’s wall. As a proud scholar, Zassia knew every language known to Azitera, but not this one. “I think it’s an ancient language. More ancient than all the languages I know.” Then Zassia turned to Hakken, “you’re an ancient being, right, Lord Hakken? Can you read it?”

Hakken shook his head. “I’m maybe an ancient being, but I was gone for seven centuries before I went through rebirth again.” It was against Hakken’s nature to lie, but the words on the wall was meant only for him. A message written in archaic language of Sappher that only he could read because he was the only one left from the first lineage.

‘Safe and secured. Every item is in position. Continue the hunt.’

Hakken’s eyes lingered on the words ‘every item is in position’ and inwardly smiled. That was good news. Now, his worries will lessen.

“I wonder what that means…” Zassia took out a pen and parchment from her satchel and copied the writings on the cave’s wall. “This is my first time seeing this language. I have to document it.”

Seeing Zassia copying the writings on the wall to her parchment, Hakken was not worried. There were no documents from the archaic time of Sappher— the first lineage— that could translate it. He already burnt it all just to be safe.

“We should rest,” said Hakken as he closed his eyes again. “We’ll be reaching the center of the valley tomorrow. We need all our strength.”

Grath nodded, followed by Zassia after she finished writing on her parchment.

When Hakken felt that everyone was asleep, he opened his eyes and looked at the words written on the cave’s wall again before he got up, took a firewood from the campfire, and went deeper into the cave.

Looking around, Hakken smiled when he saw a burnt soil in the corner as if an angry someone burnt it.

After making sure that there were no other messages on the walls, Hakken went back and closed his eyes to rest.

♕ ♕ ♕

FOLLOWING XEKE’S dagger, Cira safely passed Ashmire and now entered the wide plain valley that separates the town of Ashmire and the entrance to the sacred forest. Xeke, who was the scout arrived first and waited for Cira to catch up.

“What took you so long?” Xeke immediately asked Cira when she saw her enter his line of sight.

Cira’s face became sour, and she answered with thick sarcasm. “Oh, I don’t know. Maybe because I can’t teleport?”

“But you can run fast, right?”

Cira rolled her eyes and snorted. “And running could beat teleportation?”

Xeke didn’t argue with Cira anymore and just turned to face the massive and extensive sacred forest few kilometers away from where they were standing. It covers millions of kilometers in size, spreading towards the ocean on the other side.

“This is the largest forest in Azitera,” Xeke sighed. “I got lost before and that’s how I found the elven warriors who escorted me back.” Xeke turned to Cira. “Before we enter the forest, let me ask you one time. Do you remember the way?”

“Yes,” Cira answered so confidently and that scared Xeke.

“Are you sure?”

“Of course!” Cira exclaimed. “I lived there for more than a century.”

Xeke exhaled. He didn’t want to voice out that he was worried since Cira was not exactly known for taking the right route. “And if we got lost? You have a plan if that happened?”

“No. But we’ll be fine. Just ready your daggers.”

Xeke frowned. “What? Why?”

Cira pointed herself as if to answer Xeke’s question, but when Xeke still had that confused look on his face, Cira explained further. “I’ve been kicked out, meaning, not welcome. And since I’m entering the forest uninvited, you might want to ready your daggers. Just in case.”

A dagger appeared in front of Xeke. “Anything else?”

“No. Let’s go.” Cira was about to run, then stop and turn to look at Xeke when she remembered something. “We’re not entering the sacred forest to be friends with them. We’re entering to blackmail and threaten the king. Just so you know.”

Xeke’s eyes widened. “What the…? Cira!” Xeke called out when in a blink of an eye, Cira was already meters away from him.

Xeke could only sigh and breath in before he followed Cira— The adorable elf who’s planning something that could get them killed. But who cares? Definitely not Xeke.

♕ ♕ ♕

LIKE USUAL NIGHT at the shivering valley, Hakkeran and Sollel took a shelter in a cave. Hakkeran made Sollel’s bed and Sollel slept on it. Normally, when Sollel wakes up in the morning, breakfast was ready.

But not that morning.

No breakfast. No Hakkeran. No moonrite ring on her finger. Just an old map of the three valleys left on the ground, beside her bed.

And for the first time since she escaped her moonrite prison, she was all alone again, and the silence felt horrible that she started humming to herself. She even hoped that Hakkeran just left for the time being and would come back, but the sun was already setting and there was still no Hakkeran on sight.

When night came, alone in the cave, Sollel decided to sleep early. Come morning, Sollel left the cave, wrapped in a cloak that Hakkeran lent her when she took a bath on the stream and with a map in her hand. She was angry that the warlord didn’t leave her old cloak behind. She liked that cloak, even if it was ruined.

Traversing the shivering valley alone and following the direction on the map, Sollel realized how hard it was to make sure that she was on the right track. When she was traveling with Hakkeran, he made it look so easy.

Sighing loudly, bolts of flame erupted from her fingertips when she saw beasts blocking her path. With the moonrite ring nowhere to be found on her finger, her flame could easily penetrate and incinerate any beasts.

Leaving burnt beasts in her wake, the next day, there were no beasts on her path, as if the beats had learned their lesson and was afraid to be burned by Sollel’s flame. 

Taking a deep breath, Sollel stopped walking and looked at the map. Based on the map Hakkeran left behind for her, she’s only a day away from the stream that separates the shivering and the desolate land valley.

One more day.

Sollel pushed herself to move forward to find her resting spot for the night. And to her surprised, someone left a food there. Bread and water.

Sollel just shook her head while eating. If he was this worried that he had to leave food and water behind, why leave me behind in the first place? Sollel didn’t want to think anymore and just slept after eating.

Morning came and Sollel was back on the snow. Unlike these past few days, the snow was thinning. That means, she’s nearing the stream.

Sollel wanted to celebrate after crossing two valleys, but when she reached the end of the shivering valley, a platoon of soldiers and a group of sorcerers were waiting for her. On the front was General Kar and beside him was the warlord who left her behind. Warlord Hakkeran Adral. And he looks pretty beaten up.

Sensing that the enemy hadn’t pulled out their ace against her— the moonrite stone, her fingers subtly waved to call and ready her flame as her eyes peeked at the sky. Then she pulled back her hood and stared at Hakkeran.

“My, my,” Sollel smiled at the warlord who was on the other side of the stream, looking handsome and regal on his horse. “What happened to you, my lord?”

Sollel was teasing Hakkeran, but to everyone who heard it, it sounded like she was mocking him.

“How wicked,” General Kar spat on the ground in disgust. “You did that to him!”

Sollel raised an eyebrow and looked at Hakkeran from head to toe. He was really a mess, like he was mauled by something nasty. But that ain’t her.

“You will pay for killing the kingdom and empire’s elite in the valley of bones!” General Kar bellowed in rage, but Sollel was just standing there, calm.

She figured that if she panicked and run, they’ll use the moonrite stone to weaken and slow her down. If she fought, they would use the moonrite stone to weaken her as well. There’s no way out for her. That’s what the enemies think, but that was not really true.

Sollel narrowed her eyes on Hakkeran— the warlord over there has a plan. Hence, why he left her. But she would not wait for the warlord to swoop in and save her, she could do that herself.

“Unseal the stone!” Kar bellowed and the moment it was heard, every sorcerer took out a moonrite stone and threw it to Sollel.

And as if reacting to the stone, the cloak that Sollel was wearing glowed red. Immediately after, she felt the effect of the moonrite stone, but it didn’t bring her to her knees like it should. It didn’t drain her like always. It weakened her, yes, but not enough to bring her down.

“Ready your attacks!” General Kar bellowed again.

In her weakened state, Sollel managed to speak that made everyone tense.

“Too late,” Sollel look up at the sky again and smiled. “My flame is already coming.”

With a wave of her hand, the hundreds of balls of flame she prepared earlier peeked on the clouds and shadowed the sky. And without warning, it came raining down like falling stars, but it was neither pretty nor mesmerizing. It was death. Death by the hands of the Mistress of flame.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 49

CHAPTER 49

SEEING THE HORRIFIC scene in the sky that was now painted in crimson and the feeling of the scorching air before the ball of flames rained down, all soldiers and sorcerers shuddered in terror and desperation to live. Even General Kar felt a tinged of fear when he saw the sky. It was the same back in the valley of bones, the only difference was the shape. But the formidable strength on display was similar.

“Shield!” Was the only word General Kar able to bellow as hundreds of balls of flame with fearsome heat started falling from the sky to the ground, inescapable and merciless. Exploding on impact and shaking the ground as if an earthquake was shaking the land.

The terrifying impact of each ball of flame with the same size as a large bolder echoed and thunderously. And as the ball of flame fell one after another, a fierce of sea of flame was created, engulfing the land and everyone on the site with scalding flame.

Screams of terror and pain erupted from behind General Kar, but he only had one arcane weapon and he could only protect himself.

Squinting her eyes, he turned to his side and saw Gabin, the Adral commander, holding a shield— an arcane weapon— to protect the warlord and the warrior nearest to them. The relief that they were safe instantly vanished when he saw the state the kingdom soldiers and sorcerers were in.

It was hell. On Azitera.

Consumed with rage, General Kar shouted and glared at the Mistress of flame who was just standing on the other side of the stream, watching as if enjoying the destruction she caused. “You will pay!”

With all his might, Kar threw his war hammer at the Mistress of flame, aiming to squash her head, but before his war hammer could reach her, a ball of flame fell on his hammer and squashed it to the ground, stopping its movement. “You evil Queen!”

Kar willed his war hammer to come back so he could throw it again at the queen when another ball of flame hit his war hammer, burying it to the ground. The impact was too massive that his war hammer couldn’t come back to his hand.

As balls of flame kept slamming and exploding on his war hammer on the ground, in the midst of that explosion, the queen remains standing. Her long wavy red hair was swaying with the blow of the sweltering air caused by the explosion, the pupil in her eyes were swirling with lava-like liquid and her cloak glowed red as if mocking everyone that it could withstand a formidable flame and survived.

But General Kar was known for his tenacity, with all the strength of his will, with great difficulty, he was able to call back his war hammer! However, before it could be used to attack the Mistress of flame again, the queen’s voice rang out to everyone who survived the terrifying attack.

“Oh, my… how weak. I’m just starting.” The voice was refined and elegant, but cold and merciless. “Blood of flame, come forth and heed my call. Flame prison!”

Before anyone could react to the Mistress of Flame’s words, the sea of flame on the ground disappeared, as if it had been sucked and a heartbeat later, four pillars made of lava-like liquid erupted from the ground, surrounding the surviving enemies in four sides. These pillars were connected by bolts of flame—from the top to the side, caging the survivors inside and limiting their movement so they couldn’t reach her.

Surrounded by moonrite stone, it was a miracle that Sollel could still even stand. And after she made the pillar prison with her blood flame, she was drained and would drop unconscious if she didn’t escape as fast as she could.

Sollel realized that the only reason she was still standing was the cloak Hakkeran gave her. Somehow, it was helping her block the full effect of the moonrite stone on her to such degree, but not enough to completely block it all off. Just enough to that she wouldn’t be instantly vulnerable in the presence of the stone.

Even drained and feeling weak, Sollel acted as if she was all powerful, even kicking the moonrite stone away that was blocking her path as she crossed the shallow stream that was now covered in flames and walked towards the pillar prison she made. Instead of a fierce flame attack, Sollel settled with pillar prison because it will give her time to escape. Unlike if she attacked, she was sure that some sorcerers and General Kar will survive. And with General Kar’s presence, she was certain that Warlord Hakkeran would not do anything in her favor. In her current state, she will be an easy target to catch.

Standing near the pillar prison, Sollel held herself regally even when weak, and smiled. “Please forgive me for leaving survivors.” Her voice was so soft and merciful that it sent shiver down the spine on everyone who heard it. “Pity, there’s still a handful of you alive. Oh, well, we shall meet again.”

Then Sollel’s cold and merciless eyes settled on General Kar and before anyone could move, a bolt of flame connected to the pillar whipped the General twice, leaving a mark on the general’s armor and neck.

“That’s for my hurting my Cira and Zassia.” Then a bolt of flame whipped Hakkeran next, not that it would kill him. Solaris was with him after all. “And that’s for angering me, my lord.”

Feeling satisfied, Sollel caressed the nearest pillar as if saying goodbye. But when she was about to leave, she paused and turned to look at the survivors inside the pillar prison. Her eyes were looking for someone.

A smile appeared on her lips when she caught sight of two flame sorcerers.

“Lucky. A meal.”

The same moment the lava-like liquid swirled in Sollel’s pupils, the two flame sorcerers screamed simultaneously as if something was being ripped off from their insides, and as their screams stops and they fell to the burnt ground, a small flame left their chest and it bounced happily towards the Mistress of flame.

“What did you do?” It was Hakkeran and he looked livid.

Sollel smiled and let the two new flames danced around her hand. “Having an early dinner, my lord. Thanks.” Sollel answered playfully before she left, humming a soft and joyous tone.

♕♕♕

“WHAT ARE THESE pillars?!” General Kar hissed in frustration after attacking the pillars with his war hammer, but to no avail. No reaction that would imply that his attacks were working. It’s as if the pillars were indestructible. Even the sorcerers’ attacks were no match for it. “Warlord,” Kar turned to the silent warlord who had a dark expression on his face. “You know the Mistress of Flame better than anyone here, care to explain what this is?”

The warlord sighed before he answered. “It’s the flame pillar. It was said that this is one of the strongest defenses of the Mistress of Flame. She caged you and then she attacks. Though it was mostly used to entrap her enemies, than kill them.”

“How do we get rid of it?” Kar slammed his war hammer on the pillar again, but nothing.

The warlord sighed. “You will need the Mistress of the High Seas.”

“What?” A water sorcerer that was listening couldn’t help reacting.

Kar gritted his teeth, but couldn’t deny his astonishment. “Are these pillars really indestructible?”

Hakkeran nodded. “Yes. I believed that the Mistress of Flame used this to entrap many descendants of Sapphers when we waged war against them— to control our numbers. But at that time, according to the documents I’ve read, it was not four pillars, it was twelve and it covers a large area and entrapped hundreds of our kind.”

Kar couldn’t stop his lips from parting in disbelief. “She’s that strong?”

Hakkeran nodded. “Very. I believed that the Mistress of Flame is still not as strong as she was before, due to being imprisoned for so long and being surrounded by moonrite stone. But… Her strength is slowly recovering, and this is the proof of that. If left to her own devices, who knows what will happen. She has a bone to pick on humans and I don’t think she’ll stop until she brings humans to its knee.”

The water sorcerer who couldn’t contain his reaction earlier spoke. “My lord, you said about needing the Mistress of the High Seas to destroy these pillars. What do you mean by that? Is she more powerful than the Mistress of Flame?”

“More powerful?” Hakkeran shrugged. “I don’t know. But I do know that they cancel each other out and that the Mistress of the High Seas is the only being in Azitera who could possibly fight the Mistress of Flame. Because this,” Hakkeran motioned his hand at the pillar prison they were all in, “this is child’s play to Queen Sollel. In her full strength, the Mistress of Flame can raze hell in Azitera, and no one can stop her—but, of course, the Mistress of the High Seas.”

“These pillars,” General Kar was still trying to break them, “how long are they going to entrap us?”

“According to the war documents I’ve read, our kind was trapped for six days.” Hakkeran answered. “Basing my calculation on the Mistress of Flame strength now, I’d say, it can hold us here for a day or so.”

General Kar blows out a loud breath. “That Mistress of Flame should be killed and not imprisoned!”

General Kar was busy trying to break the pillar prison that he didn’t see how the warlord’s eyes darkened and sharpened. Only Gabin, who was beside the warlord saw and he was relieved.

“Um,” another sorceress survivor hesitantly spoke to the warlord. “My lord, may I ask you a question?”

Gabin had to elbow his excellency. “A question, your excellency.”

Hakkeran turned to the sorceress. “Of course. What is your question?”

“You said earlier that the Mistress of Flame has a bone to pick on us, humans. My question is, why?” The wind sorceress from the kingdom was confused. “As far as the story goes, it was they who tried to slaughter us.”

Hakkeran looked at the flame pillar as he answered. “You have to ask your king about that. Though there are rumors circulating that you,” Hakkeran even pointed the surviving sorcerer and sorceress, “humans, betrayed the Yther’s Queens, hence why the Mistress of Flame who adored humans wants to burn and kill you all.”

Of course, there was no rumor. Hakkeran was just making it up so a rumor will spread.

“Where did you hear that rumor?” Kar was interested.

“In Adral, I accept any race who wants to live there, as long as they follow the rules— my rules, I don’t have a problem with that. And the long-lived once always talks about the Yther’s Queens. How magnanimous they were and how peaceful Azitera was. Of course, these long-lived races also talk about how greedy humans are, for biting the hands that feeds them.”

Kar frowned. “I don’t understand…”

Hakkeran was happy to explain, of course, minus the proud smile since he shouldn’t smile.

“You,” Hakkeran pointed the sorcerers and sorceress, “do you know where your powers came from?”

One sorcerer answered proudly. “It was passed down to us by our ancestors.”

“And how did your ancestors acquire these powers?” Hakkeran asked again.

“They were born with it.” A sorceress immediately answered the warlord.

“Wrong.” Hakkeran immediately corrected the woman. “It was given to them by the Yther’s Queen so they could protect themselves from the beasts, bandits and monsters because humans are the only weak race in Azitera.”

“Given?”

Hakkeran sighed and sat on the ground. “The Mistress of Flame, Queen Sollel, blessed humans with fire. The Mistress of Nature, Queen Gatria, blessed humans with healing. The Mistress of the High Seas, Queen Aenwyn, blessed humans so they could wield water. And the Mistress of the Wind, Queen Astrid, blessed humans with her element so they could soar the sky and enjoy the speed. They generously shared their powers given to them by the deities which they didn’t have to, honestly. And these blessings are passed down to every human generation. That’s when the sorcerer and sorceress came to be.”

Everyone was gaping at the Warlord. Some didn’t believe it. Some were skeptical. Some were astounded. Some were in disbelief.

“Y-you’re lying…”

Hakkeran shrugged. “What would I get if I lied? They are my enemies too.”

General Kar became silent and was lost in thought the moment he heard the name of the Mistress of Nature. He felt like there was this gnawing feeling inside him, itching to come out, but even how hard he tried to let it come out, nothing.

Queen Gatria…

Meanwhile, Hakkeran smiled humorlessly at the surviving sorcerer and sorceress. The soldiers had been wiped out because they didn’t have the means to protect themselves, unlike the sorcerers. “We are stuck here for one or two more days. So, any questions? I’m happy to educate you.”

A wind sorcerer stepped forward, but not to ask. “According to what my father told me; the Mistress of Flame was imprisoned in the empire.” He grinned gloatingly. “Doesn’t that make the empire powerful? Seeing how they enslaved the Mistress of Flame whom you said is every powerful?”

Hakkeran signaled Gabin to lean down and move closer. Gabin heeds the order and when his ears were near his excellency, the warlord whispered. “Kill him tomorrow.”

Gabin nodded. “Yes, Your Excellency.”

With a fake smile, Hakkeran turn his attention on the wind sorcerer. “Indeed, the empire is very powerful. Though I can’t stop feeling bad for all the soldiers, sorcerers and sorceress who died while trying to ‘enslave’ the Mistress of Flame again. I don’t think the moonrite stone is enough to weaken them anymore.”

“Then we will fight her head on!”

A water sorcerer snorted at the wind sorcerer’s words. “You should be thankful that you survived the Mistress of Flame attacks. With your puny strength, you think you’re a match for her? Pathetic!”

“What did you say?!”

“Silence!” Kar bellowed, angry that his thoughts about Queen Gatria was interrupted. “Water sorcerers! Break this damn prison!”

All the surviving water sorcerer gaped at General Kar.

“But, General, Warlord Hakkeran said only the Mistress of the High Seas could break these pillars.”

“Aren’t you blessed by her?!” Kar snapped. “Hurry up!”

And General’s order was an order no one could go against, so the water sorcerers started trying to break the pillar prison.

Dropping himself on the ground, Kar sat next to Warlord Hakkeran who was watching the pitiful water sorcerers doing their best to break the prison to no avail.

“What do you think happened to them?” Kar asked the warlord while looking at the two dead flame sorcerers on the ground.

“I don’t know,” of course, Hakkeran knew. “I’ve read a lot of books about the Mistress of Flame from the Sappher’s archives, but whatever she did to those poor flame sorcerers, it was not on the books.”

Kar let out a loud breath and ask with hesitation in his voice. “About… Queen Gatria. What do you know about her?”

Hakkeran had a feeling that it was not just a curious question, so he answered. “She excelled in sword fighting and she’s a very graceful—”

“No. What I mean is, what does she look like?”

Hakkeran frowned at Kar. “Didn’t you visit her in hallowed valley?”

Kar shook his head. “I’m not allowed inside.”

“Oh. The kingdom is very trusting.” Hakkeran said in sarcasm.

“What does she look like?” Kar asked for the second time, for some reason he didn’t want to admit, he was eager to know.

“Tall. Brown hair and brown eyes. Always carrying a sword.” Then Hakkeran remembered. “I saw a painting of her. It’s in my archives in Adral.”

Kar wanted to ask if he could have it, but stopped himself, knowing that she was an enemy.

Silence fell on everyone, except for the water sorcerers who were still trying to break the pillars as per General Kar’s order. They only stopped after they were overcome with exhaustion, and everyone had no choice but to wait for the pillars to burn out and disappear.

When morning came, the pillar was still standing, and everyone was in battle mode when they saw a man with uncanny silver eyes, watching them curiously from the outside of the pillar prison while rolling the three small crystal balls in his palm and sometimes in between his fingers.

And when that man saw Hakkeran, he laughed. “So someone finally managed to caged you, huh, Hakkeran?”

Hakkeran groaned when he heard that familiar voice.

“You know him?” General Kar, who had his war hammer in his hand asked the warlord.

Hakkeran sighed and stood up, facing the man outside the pillar prison. “Yes. His name’s Treven. A warlord of Sappher.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 50

CHAPTER 50

TREVEN WAS having the time of his life laughing at Hakkeran who was caged in the pillar prison for two days. He was laughing too much that it was even annoying Kar and some other surviving sorcerer and sorcerers who were just listening. And the knocking sounds of the small crystal on Treven’s hand were getting onto everyone’s nerves, especially Hakkeran’s.

“Can you stop that?!” Hakkeran snapped at Treven who was sitting on the ground, outside the prison pillar and facing them.

Treven just chuckled and continued annoying everyone until the prison pillar started fading. And it only took one hit of Kar’s war hammer for the pillar to crumble entirely.

General Kar breathe in a sigh of relief while the sorcerer and sorceress was overjoyed that they were finally free.

But Kar didn’t stop there. He walked towards Treven while gritting his teeth and said, “the only reason why I’m not smashing you to death right now is because we are of the same race. But if you keep annoying me with that crystal balls of yours, I might forget that you are also a descendant of Sappher like me.”

It was clearly a threat, but Treven smiled, unfazed. “Who died and made you grumpy?”

Kar was not used to sarcastic remarks since he was a respected general. “Y-you…!”

“What?” Treven asked as if challenging the general to speak. “First, don’t stand too close to me. You’re not my type. I don’t like descendants of Sappher who can’t remember their past life. I pray that she’ll make you suffer once she’s out and about. Second, even how strong your war hammer is, that can’t hurt me one bit. It’s just a hammer.” Treven said in a mocking tone. “Go hammer a nail or something.”

Kar exploded in anger and raised his war hammer, but before it hit Treven who was just standing there, unafraid, a loud shattering sound echoed, as if someone crushed a crystal. Kar only realized that the sound came from Treven’s hands when fragments of the crushed crystal flew out of his hand and the crystal shards vanishes as it formed a transparent shield around Treven. The moment Kar’s war hammer hit Treven, it bounced back, no damage to the shield and the force of the collision managed to push back Kar who was stunned that someone could block his war hammer.

That’s when Hakkeran stepped in. “Enough. We’re allies.”

Kar gritted his teeth, but listened. Meanwhile, hearing Hakkeran said that they were allies made Treven chuckled as if Hakkeran was joking.

Kar strapped his war hammer on his back before he silently turned around and followed the surviving sorcerers who were focused on planning than watching what was happening with the general and the newcomer.

“You don’t have to do that, you know.” Hakkeran said to Treven like a father disciplining a child. “He doesn’t remember a thing.”

Treven clicked his tongue. “Hakkeran, I’m not here to play nice. It’s your job, not mine. And seeing that face again fucking pisses me off! It was his fault that he couldn’t remember a damn thing! Because of him, Gatria is imprisoned!”

Hakkeran didn’t want his anger to clash with Treven’s, so he just turned around and went to talk to the Adral warriors about their next step while Treven calms down.

Meanwhile, Gabin sighed at what happened. “Lord Treven, please don’t anger his excellency. I’m already stressed as it is, if his excellency snapped and become a madman again, the stress will be catastrophic.”

Treven anger disappeared, and he smiled as if nothing happened. “Hush, Gabin. Your excellency won’t snap. He has a reputation to uphold. And if ever he snapped, it’ll be more fun. Don’t you think? As his trusted aide who’s stressed all the time, you should have fun sometimes.”

Gabin sighed at another madman who will add to his stress. “What are you even doing here, Lord Treven?” Gabin was already feeling stressed-out thinking that he now had to serve two mad men. “I thought you were stationed in the Nayale Archipelago to watch and observe.”

“A fucking boring job, you mean?” The shield around Treven vanished and it returned into shards, and then the shards went back to his hands and when all the fragments were in his palm, it became a whole crystal ball again. As if it was not shattered earlier.

And that was Treven’s arcane weapon— the Soulshard— an arcane weapon that specializes in defense and only Treven could wield.

Treven clicked his tongue and looked at Hakkeran. “Your excellency there called me to do some dirty stuff.”

Gabin grimaced at what he heard. “Please don’t say it like that.”

Treven chuckled at Gabin’s reaction. “You’re such a prude, Gabin. Don’t follow in your excellency’s footsteps. It’s not good to be celibate.” Then nonchalantly, Treven handed a vial to Gabin as if it was not important. “That’s what he asked me to do. Nasty, don’t you think?” Treven grinned. “But I like nasty stuff.”

Gabin stared at the vial in awe. It was a vial made of jade. He couldn’t see what was inside, but he could feel while holding it that it was an essence container— and this container is full of essence. Close to overflowing.

“Flame?” Gabin asked Treven.

Treven shook his head and stretched his arms as if getting ready to do something. “Nope. A different one. Just ask your excellency. Anyway,” Treven smiled and stepped back before he waved his hand at Hakkeran to get his attention. “I have to go, Warlord Hakkeran.” Treven’s tone was playful. It was easy to tell that he didn’t really take Hakkeran’s position seriously. “I have places to be and men to seduce. Bye!”

Hakkeran sighed at Treven’s retreating back before he walked to Gabin. “Did he give it to you?”

Gabin nodded and frowned afterwards as he looked at Treven’s retreating back. “Really? Men to seduce? But he looked so… manly.”

Hakkeran chuckled at Gabin’s reaction. “Don’t mind him. He has always been like that. He’s a strong warlord. That’s what matters.”

Gabin nodded and carefully and subtly handed the vial Lord Treven gave him to his excellency. “What is that, Your Excellency?”

“Something useful.” Hakkeran answered and went back to the Adral warriors who were now collaborating with Kar and the kingdom’s sorcerer and sorceress.

“Where’s your friend?” Kar asked, clearly still pissed at Treven.

“I sent him back to Adral.” Hakkeran answered smoothly. “It needs an overseer while I’m away.”

Kar nodded. “He does look reliable. Anyway,” Kar frowned. “Do you know what he meant when he said, ‘who can’t remember his past life’? What’s he talking about?”

Hakkeran shrugged. “Beats me. Let’s ask him when you visit Adral.”

Kar had no choice but to nod. Still, something was bothering him.

‘I pray that she’ll make you suffer once she’s out and about.’

Who was this ‘she’? And why was that man praying that she’ll make him suffer? Did he do something he couldn’t remember? Kar was not certain, but as his hunt for the Mistress of Flame continues, the nagging feeling inside him that he felt like scratching something in his mind and wanted to come out was becoming stronger.

What is wrong with me? Kar had been asking himself that ever since the warlord mentioned the name Gatria in the valley of bones. Hearing that name, something was gnawing inside him. But what was it?

Watching the emotion in General Kar’s face play out, Hakkeran pitied the man for not remembering the most important part of his life.

Hakkeran sighed and looked at the direction the Mistress of Flame took two days ago. The plan was to follow the Mistress of flame, but some sorcerers were not so keen on following the queen who almost wiped them out. However, they didn’t have a choice since it was an order from the general of Treterra.

Two healers, four water sorcerers, three wind sorcerers— no, make that two since one of them will die in Gabin’s hand by his order—Kar’s right-hand man and then General Kar. On his side, there was him, Gabin and the Adral warriors. Thanks to Gabin’s shield, his own arcane weapon, they barely managed to survive Queen Sollel’s attack. Some of his warriors were wounded, but no one was dead.

Well, I’m wounded to, Hakkeran thought as he looked at his arm. The mark from the bolts of flame that the queen used to whip him was still there. It didn’t burn him much, but it was painful. It was thanks to the healers that the wound was finally healing.

“Let’s go!” Hakkeran heard Kar shouted for everyone to hear him. “We’ve already given the Mistress of Flame two days to get ahead of us. We have to find her fast!”

The sorcerer and sorceress nodded gravely and followed Kar while the Adral warriors followed Hakkeran and Gabin, who was walking beside General Kar on the front.

Though hearing that the Mistress of Flame will be hunted again, Hakkeran was not worried. It’s been two days. By now, his queen was already safe and secured.

♕ ♕ ♕

LEAVING THE pillar prison she made to trap everyone she couldn’t burn because of how weak she was, Sollel followed the map Hakkeran left for her. After following the direction written on the map for a few hours, Sollel couldn’t help frowning when she realized she was still close to the stream.

“Am I lost?” Sollel asked herself, but continued following the map for direction. She knew Hakkeran wouldn’t give her the map for no reason.

And then, after a day of walk, before night fell, she finally reached her destination. The place where there was a circle on the map. It was a humongous dead tree with thick and large branches. It was too big that if Sollel wanted to stay there and hide, she probably wouldn’t be found.

“Why would he bring me here?” Sollel had no answer, but still stayed under the big dead tree to pass the night. Tomorrow, she’ll traverse the desolate land valley on her own.

Sighing to herself, she sat on the big tree trunk alone. She was already in the desolate land valley, but she could still see the shivering valley and the blizzard barraging it. Oddly, she was near the shivering valley, but she couldn’t feel the cold anymore.

Sollel’s eyes looked down at the cloak she was wearing and then at her hand chain bracelet. She smiled when she remembered the method and reasoning Hakkeran used when he gave it to her. Emotionless and cold as he was, she enjoyed her time with Hakkeran. He always pretends to be cold and distant, but she felt how much he cares for her.

Sollel leaned her back to the tree trunk and closed her eyes. I have to rest. I have an early day tomorrow.

However, Sollel’s plan to traverse the desolate land valley on her own was changed when morning came and she saw figures crossing the stream just when she was about to leave.

Three figures.

And as the figures came closer, they became clearer to Sollel.

Grath. Zassia. And Hakken.

Sollel was happy to see Zassia and Grath safe. She was happy to see them healthy. But seeing Hakken again, after so many days without him, Sollel found herself running towards Hakken and wrapping her arms around Hakken’s neck, hugging her hunter so tight.

“You’re finally here…” Sollel whispered as she hugged Hakken tightly. She couldn’t explain it, seeing Hakken again, Sollel felt calm and warm. As if all her problems will be solved just knowing that Hakken was by her side again.

Hakken’s face was tinted with red when his lady hugged him like she missed him, but he still managed to wrap his arms around his lady’s waist even when his chest was pounding so hard. “I’m glad you’re safe, my lady.”

Sollel nodded and with a happy smile, she let go of Hakken to cup his handsome face. “You’re not hurt, are you?” He still had some bruises and cuts.

“I’m fine now.”

“That’s good.” Sollel was relieved and then she finally turned to Grath and Zassia. “How about you two?” She went to check on Zassia and Grath. “No wounds? No, nothing?”

“We’ve already recovered, teacher.”

Sollel smiled at Zassia before she affectionately patted Zassia’s head. “I’m proud of you, Zassia. What you did in the valley of bones, using your quick thinking and flame to protect me, I’m so happy and proud of your progress.”

Zassia’s whole face lit up and her eyes watered. “Thank you, teacher. I was so worried.”

“I’m so sorry for making you worry.” Then Sollel looked at Grath. “You’ve protected Zassia well. Thank you, Grath.”

Grath bowed his head at Sollel. “I do not deserve your gratitude, Your Highness. I let you cross the shivering valley alone.”

Sollel patted Grath’s shoulder. “It wasn’t your fault, and I was not alone in the valley. Someone helped me.”

“Really?” Grath looked relieved. “I’m happy to hear that, Your Highness.”

Sollel smiled at Grath before she went back to Hakken who was just silently watching her. “How about you? I heard General Kar did a number on you.”

Hakken rubbed his nape as if embarrassed. “He’s too strong for me, I guess.”

Sollel lost her smile. “Did he hurt you?”

Hakken didn’t answer, but Zassia did. “Yes, Your Highness. Lord Hakken was like an undead when we met back in the cave—” Zassia didn’t finished her words when she saw how the queen’s eyes swirled with lava-like liquid and her anger manifested through the air— their surroundings became hot and blistering and in just a few breaths, flame erupted from the ground and roared as if showing everyone how angry she was.

And before anyone could react, the flame vanished as if nothing happened and Sollel sighed. “Sorry about that.” Sollel looked at Hakken, wanting to heal the little cuts and bruises he still had but she knew instead of healing him, she’ll burn him alive for sure since he didn’t have solaris to accept and control her flame in his body.

“We should go,” Hakken said after Sollel calmed down. “The desolate land valley is different from the two valleys we crossed. According to my research, it’s filled with beasts, from small devouring ants to humongous mutated species. This was a lively valley before it became a desolate land because of too many monsters gathering here. We can all fight, that’s for sure, but we will be defeated by their numbers so as much as possible, no unnecessary sound and movement. We have to move stealthy.”

Zassia nodded at Hakken before she added. “I remember reading a book about this valley. It was desolate and dead, but there were tons of rare medicinal herbs here. It was called the land of no return because no one has ever entered and lived. It was said that the whole desolate land is divided into four parts. The first was the territory of the deadliest and most poisonous insects in Azitera. After that was a large, long, and endless dead river, home to the flesh-eating crocodilian and aquatic beasts and monsters. And then, there was what they called the dead garden. I don’t know what they meant by that; it wasn’t explained in the book. All I know is that this dead garden is the one responsible for keeping the ‘peace’ between two territories— the aquatic and land beasts.”

Sollel blows a loud breath after hearing that. “If it was that dangerous, then how does the kingdom travels to hallowed valley?”

“I believe they have a secret passage that only they knew.” Answered Hakken and then he took out four flowers from his bag and handed them one each. “The scent of this flower can block our scents so keep it close to you at all times. Once this is a meter away from you, it will be easy for the beasts to track you down so don’t drop or lose it.”

Sollel, Zassia and Grath put the flower in the most secured pocket of their clothing before they all ventured deep into the entrance if the desolate land valley.

Grath was in the front, Zassia was in the middle while Sollel and Hakken took the rare.

And as they passed the entrance and ventured deeper, everyone immediately smelled it. The blood and death in the air. That’s when they knew and understood that they entered the den of beasts and monsters— the desolate land valley. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 51

CHAPTER 51

SOLLEL, HAKKEN, Zassia and Grath were huddled together as they went deeper into the desolate land valley. Their backs were to each other while looking around vigilantly. The valley was called desolate because it had nothing, and it was nothing but the truth. The soil was dead, it was almost barren. The trees had long died and no sign of vegetation anywhere.

Zassia contained a gasp when she saw skeletons and carcass everywhere. Some were fresh, some were rotting, and worms were feasting on it. As they continue, the rotting smell of death grew stronger each step.

“This is scary…” Zassia whispered while mustering all her courage to move her feet to continue. She was about to pray when she remembered that the one she was praying too for courage was beside her. And that thought calmed Zassia.

Meanwhile, Grath, who was on the front had his flame claws ready for anything. Hakken already draw his sword while Sollel’s blood flame was at the ready.

“Hakken,” Sollel whispered to Hakken who was beside her. “Do you know a safe route?”

Hakken shook his head and sighed. “Unfortunately, there is none, my lady. No route is safe in this desolate valley. There are some routes with less monsters, but it’s still not safe. Usually, if a part of desolate valley had little monsters, that means a strong one is making it his territory.”

Sollel nodded. “Let’s take that route.”

Hakken didn’t ask his lady if she was sure, he immediately exchanged positions with Grath and lead the group to the route he mention to his lady.

Their journey was arduous, they had to stop, hide, and sneak past monsters that was fighting and some beasts that were eating their dead preys. With the help of the flower Hakken provided, their scent was safe.

“What is that…?” Grath asked in a whisper with incredulity seeing the insects four times bigger than him eating a carcass.

“It’s a primal sowbug.” Zassia answered in a shaky voice. “According to the book I read, they like munching on humans.”

Grath grimaced. “What are we going to do, Lord Hakken? Should we go around it or kill it?”

Hakken eyes roamed around before his tongue clicked. “We can’t go around. There’s a bone-eating Peripatus on the left and a hoard of man-eating Psocids on the right. If we go around them, it’ll take us days to return to this route and we’re not sure how many monsters are there.”

Sollel sighed while hiding behind a dead tree trunk. “Is there a monster in this valley that doesn’t enjoy flesh, bone and blood of men? Maybe some vegetables?”

Zassia and Hakken answered at the same time.

“No, teacher.”

“Not one, my lady.”

Sollel sighed again. “Let’s kill it.” Everyone turned to look at Sollel and Sollel shrugged. “I get that our fighting might attract the attention of other monsters, but if we stay here and wait, some monsters might also come and feast on us. Let’s just fight, then run.”

Zassia looked at the massive sowbug again. Its skin was like metal. “I don’t think my flame can penetrate its skin.”

“I’m not sure if my flame can too.” Sollel confessed too. “But we can’t stay here. Who knows what kind of man-bone-flesh-eating monsters might come? There’s an ample space between that bug with skin-like metal, that creepy long bug and those transparent looking ant-bug. We can make a run for it.”

In their dire situation, the three couldn’t help chuckling at how the queen called the three humongous monsters blocking their path.

After chuckling at his lady’s adorableness, Hakken made a plan. “Grath, Zassia, you run as fast as you can while we’re fighting the sowbug—”

“No. You run with them.” Sollel interjected. “I’ll fight it.”

Hakken’s face hardened. It was an order from his queen that didn’t sit well with him. “My lady, I don’t want to be away from you ever again. If you’re fighting, so am I.”

Sollel shook her head. “I’ll be attacking with my full strength. If you’re on the battlefield, I will be worried about hitting you with my flame, and I won’t be able to focus. Just wait for me and protect Grath, and Zassia. There might be monsters around while they’re running. They need you more than I do. Please, Hakken?”

The queen pleaded and Hakken had no choice but to agree. He knew his lady was strong, she’s the Mistress of Flame, but as a man who love and care for his queen, he couldn’t just agree to it.

“Let’s go. We have no time to waste.” Sollel stood up. “I’ll get its attention.”

Sollel didn’t wait for anyone’s reply. She ran towards the sowbug and throw a flame in the air, just above the metal-skinned bug. And when her flame caught its attention, it was too late, her flame multiplied into four and bolts of flame strike the sowbug.

Bolts of flame were one of her attacks that had strong penetrating strength, but against the sowbug, it was nothing. The bolts bounced back, like it hit an impenetrable wall.

Sollel had no choice seeing that Zassia, Grath, and Hakken was already running.

“Blood of flame!” Lava-like liquid swirled in Sollel’s eyes. “Come forth, and heed my call! Flame prison!” All the flame near them disappeared, as if it had sucked by the soil and then from nowhere, four pillars erupted from the ground, caging the humongous sowbug.

Unlike the enemies Sollel cage days ago, this sowbug was massive and could easily destroy her flame pillars.

“Run!” She shouted at Zassia, Grath and Hakken. The three had their own battle too. There were small sowbugs blocking its path and Hakken was slathering them with his war blades.

Seeing that the little sowbugs were being slaughtered, the massive sowbug inside Sollel’s pillar prison slammed its many feet on the grounds, making the ground shake and break!

Sollel could see that it was just a matter of time before her flame pillar breaks. To subdue the monster before it escapes her flame prison, she made a ball of flame above it, reaching the same size as the colossal sowbug, and manipulated the flame to shape it into a gigantic flaming sword aimed at the sowbug.

The flaming sword was too gigantic that the trio, Zassia, Grath, and Hakken unconsciously stopped just to marvel at its incredulity.

Zassia’s jaw fell. “So big… Her Highness had become stronger.”

Grath swallowed, feeling the air sizzle as if reacting to the gigantic flaming sword. “What kind of strength is that…?”

“That’s only the half of the Mistress of Flame’s strength.” Hakken whispered in awe and happy at his lady’s strength.

“Just half?” With wide eyes, Zassia turned to Hakken in shocked.

“Yes. We have to go now.” Hakken said in a hurry when he saw the gigantic flaming sword descending. “Let’s go! Let’s go!”

Seeing what Hakken was seeing, the trio run as far away as they could. Hakken was on the front and Grath was on the rear. Protecting themselves from incoming monsters. But those monsters were not after them, they were after the owner of that formidable strength. The Mistress of Flame.

Aside from the monster who were drawn to Sollel’s formidable flame, a group of the kingdom of Treterra’s sorcerers, descendant of Sapphers and Adral warriors saw the that gigantic flame. It was kilometers away from them, but its alarming strength and massive size were enough to draw their attention and stop on their track.

“What is that?” A water sorcerer asked, seeing the flaming sword in the sky, slowly descending.

My queen. Hakkeran immediately thought after seeing the sword. Only his queen had the strength to conjure a gigantic flaming sword in the sky. A monster might’ve blocked her way. With half of her strength finally recovered, making that gigantic flaming sword was a piece of cake.

And Hakkeran was right.

Before everyone’s eyes, the mammoth size flaming sword split into three, but the power it holds didn’t diminish. It tripled, even. And it left everyone in astonishment.

“Look at my queen, Gabin,” Hakkeran spoke proudly in a low voice. “She’s slaying it out there.”

Gabin sighed at how smitten his excellency looked. “Your Excellency, don’t look so proud.”

“But I am.”

“Not in front of the people you’re trying to deceive.”

“Oh.” Hakkeran immediately fixed the emotion on his face into uninterested even though he wanted nothing than to marvel at his queen’s strength. That’s my queen right there.

“I think that’s the Mistress of Flame.” Someone pointed out. “Only she could wield such power.”

“Follow that direction!” General Kar ordered and everyone obeyed even though they felt fear after what they just witnessed.

But their movement halted once again as they find their balance when the three gigantic flaming swords, they were looking at earlier descended, causing a massive explosion that shook the ground of desolate valley. The impact was too immense that it was even felt in the hallowed valley.

Flame roared, exploded, and shook the ground, but it was not enough to Sollel, to make sure that the sowbug was dead, another gigantic flaming sword appeared in the sky. However, before it descended and deliver a Shockwave that could make the ground shook again, someone appeared besides the queen amidst the flame and picked her up.

“My lady, it’s already dead. Let’s go.”

Sollel just let Hakken carry her in his arms as she looked around. When she saw the transparent looking ant-bug crawling fast towards their direction, the flaming sword that was still in the air, tilted as if changing its aim and then Sollel dropped it on the transparent ant-bug, squashing and burning it to death.

Sollel smirked seeing her flame’s destruction, then she turned to Hakken who was running amid the flame, with her in his arms. Afraid that her flame might hurt him, Sollel wrapped him with his flame essence to protect his body.

Sollel rested her head on Hakken’s chest. “I still want to burn more monsters.”

“I’m sure you’ll be able to do that, but for now, let’s run.”

Sollel looked over Hakken’s shoulder to see the destruction she caused. “I thought I wouldn’t be able to hurt it. Guess, I was wrong. There’s not even a carcass left.”

Hakken didn’t reply and just focused all his attention on running and retracing the direction he took with Grath, and Zassia earlier, but his focused broke and he nearly went tumbling when a hand cupped his face and a soft and warm lips pressed against his.

Hakken became mindless, his whole body was on fire and even though monsters surrounded them after abruptly stopping, he didn’t move and just stared blankly at his lady in shock, while Sollel was enjoying the emotion playing on Hakken’s face.

Seeing that Hakken won’t be back anytime soon, Sollel left his arms and stood in front of Hakken. And with her blood flame, she surrounded them with flame reaching their height, stopping the monsters from attacking and she did all that with her eyes never leaving Hakken.

“My lady…” Hakken finally found his voice and words, but she could only speak two words.

Sollel smiled and thought, it was worth the wait. She cupped Hakken’s face again and softly pressed her lips on his. She thought it’ll be the same as their first kiss, but Hakken opened his mouth this time and snake his tongue inside.

A soft groan escaped Sollel’s lips as Hakken started devouring her mouth aggressively. Different from the prude Hakken whom she used to tease; his mouth was hungry and dominating her. One of his arms was wrapped around her waist and the other was on her neck, his hand cupping her nape to deepen the kiss.

Sollel kissed Hakken because she wanted to. But Hakken… He was kissing her like he missed her. Like he wanted to own her but controlling himself. His kisses were deep, hungry, and dominant. And to Sollel who was used to dominating, she didn’t mind being dominated by him.

But alas, they had had to breath.

Both panting, they pulled away at the same time and Sollel smiled playfully when she saw how red Hakken’s face was.

But Sollel’s plan to tease Hakken didn’t push through seeing him leaned down to rest his forehead on her shoulder like he was drained.

“Is this part of your teasing, my lady?” Hakken’s voice was so low, as if he was afraid to hear Sollel’s answer.

Sollel wanted to tease Hakken so bad, but she figured it was not the time. She had a feeling that Hakken might be disappointed if she teased him. So, she gave her honest answer. “No. I just really want to kiss you.”

Turning his head to look at her from the side, his head still resting on her shoulder. “This is not one of your jokes?”

“No.”

“This is really real?”

“Yes.”

Hakken didn’t ask more and just gathered her in his arms and embraced her tightly, as if now wanting to let her go.

“I… I waited three lifetimes for you.” Hakken whispered softly and Sollel’s face softened. “My plan is to just be there for you, to not ask for anything, either attention or affection. But now, my plan is crumbling.” His voice was shaky, like he was afraid that something was going to change and that changes scares him. “What am I going to do, my lady? Holding you this close to me, kissing you and tasting your lips… I don’t think… I still have the strength to hold back.”

“What a silly man you are,” Sollel affectionately patted Hakken’s back before pulling away from his embrace. “Who told you to hold back anyway?”

“Myself. You don’t need the distraction. What you need is someone useful and strong.”

“And I’m pretty sure you’re still useful and strong even if we kissed countless times, Hakken.” Said Sollel with a soft smile before she sent bolts of flame to the beasts who managed to enter her flame. “I don’t think your dependability will diminish just because we kissed.”

“What if I got addicted to your lips?” Hakken was genuinely worried that he looked adorable. “I don’t want to be thrown away because I’m not useful anymore.”

Leaving him in the forest really did a number on him, Sollel thought before she fixed Hakken’s messy hair. “Don’t worry too much. If I don’t want you to kiss me, I’ll burn you.”

Hakken stilled, deeply thinking, then he nodded. “Yes, that’ll work. You can burn me anytime if you think I’m getting addicted.”

Sollel chuckled and was about to tease Hakken again when they heard Zassia and Grath’s voice.

“Teacher!”

“Your Highness!”

Sollel immediately lowered the flame surrounding them and saw Grath, and Zassia fighting the monsters around them.

Sollel clicked her tongue in annoyance before she raised her foot and stamp it on the ground, making the flame around her and Hakken react by exploding, dealing damage to the monsters around them.

“Annoying bugs.” Sollel muttered under her breath before she waved her hand and almost immediately flame covered the whole ground, except where Hakken, Zassia and Grath were standing. And with another wave of Sollel’s hand, the flame formed into a spike, empaling every little bug in the vicinity. “There. Done. Let’s go.”

Zassia was relieved, Grath was impressed and Hakken was smiling while watching his lady’s back.

Such powerful being kissed me, Hakken couldn’t get it out from his head as he followed everyone to continue their journey. My beloved queen, the Mistress of Flame.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 52

CHAPTER 52

NIGHT FELL and Sollel’s group need to find a safe place to let the night pass. It’s dangerous to venture the desolate valley in daylight, but it’s more perilous to traverse it at night. Hakken suggested to find a higher ground, but since they couldn’t find any that was safe, they improvised and settled on one of the large dead trees they found. It was high with thick limbs and branches. Perfect for night stay.

After checking if the tree was safe, Grath had to help Zassia climbed up the tree while Sollel and Hakken climbed the tree with ease.

“Is this safe?” Zassia asked while looking down and when she saw height, her body went cold and became dizzy. “Oh, my deities… I think I’m going to vomit. I hate high places.”

“Endure it, lady Zassia.” Said Grath who was very comfortable sitting on one of the tree’s limbs. “This is safer than staying on the ground.”

Watching Zassia getting paler and paler, Sollel felt pity towards her poor student, but as Grath said, this was the safest place. They were in between twenty to thirty feet high, understandable if Zassia was feeling a little queasy.

Leaning her back on the tree trunk while sitting on the tree limb, Sollel turned her attention to Hakken. He was quietly sitting on the same tree limb as her, but his legs were hanging down, just like Grath, and she was the one closer to the trunk.

He looked so fun to tease from where she was sitting, but she didn’t. Instead, she just watched him. Enjoying the view in front of her.

After what happened to her, after escaping prison, she was closed off to everyone. She trusted no one. Even Cira who helped her a lot. She was not keen on speaking or entertaining anyone, especially people who tried to get close to her. Cira and Hakken. But as her strength slowly recovers and as she travelled with them— with him, she slowly opened herself. Gradually letting people in and trusting again. She was skeptical at first, doubting everyone’s intention, but after Cira was hurt in the Nobles Hill, that’s when she realized that she didn’t want to lose the people who had become her companion.

Cira. Zassia. Grath. Even Zeke. He’s a descendant of Sappher, but he was helpful and very caring to Cira. Of course, Hakken. Her hunter.

Afraid to be betrayed again, she threw a bait to make sure than no one was going to backstab her again. And of course, to catch someone. The person who saved her from prison.

Everything went accroding to plan. Her companions were loyal to a fault. And her bait attracted two individuals. Hakken who appeared on the clearing even though no one told him where she was— only meant one thing, he had eyes on her the whole time— and Warlord Hakkeran who didn’t use his arcane weapon as he should to fight their mortal enemy, one of the Yther’s queens and the Mistress of Flame. Hakkeran also went easy on her when they were fighting. She had fought against descendants of Sapphers before and they were not weak. No one was weak in Sappher. Each one was a warrior. The strength she had at that time was still too little, still very weak against a warlord, yet he fought her and nearly lost as if she was back to her full strength.

That’s when she became certain that the warlord knew her.

Then entered Hakken. He fought with the warlord and the warlord run, leaving Hakken with only one single wound. Not only that, the surprised in Hakken’s face at that time when Warlord Hakkeran suddenly fought like a madman, it was not because Hakken was surprised that Hakkeran was stronger that he thought. It was more like a surprised face of a man who was confused why his opponent had a killing intent after agreeing that they were allies.

That’s when it became suspicious. That’s when her bait started working that made her draw a conclusion.

Hakken and Hakkeran knew each other.

It was the reason why she left Hakken in the forest, using the ‘our deal was finished in Ager’ reasoning to test him.

If Hakken followed her to the Valley of Bones to offer his assistance and nothing more, she was almost eighty percent certain that Hakken had a hand of her escape. And when no army arrived in the city outside the valley to check if she was there which was supposed to happen knowing the Kingdom of Treterra, she was certain that Hakken and Hakkeran had something to do with it. And not to mention Hakken’s knowledge about the Valley of Bones. Sollel didn’t buy his ‘research’ answer. She knew that he knew about the path beforehand.

Though it was not just speculation on her part, she had evidence. Her memories that were starting to come back— that was her evidence.

She started to gradually remember the memories she had forgotten because of being imprisoned and weakened in the moonrite cell. It affected her memories. As her strength recovers, so were her hazy memories. And after taking the flame essence of the flame sorcerer back in the forest clearing, her hazy memory started to clear up.

She remembered Hakken, his full name, his warrior’s name and his arcane weapon. She remembered how he wielded it. How he used it. How could she forget the weapon that almost defeated her? It was only thanks to her blood of flame that she won. Without the power from the deities, she would’ve been defeated.

What Sollel didn’t understand was why Hakken was keeping it a secret from her? Was it because their race were mortal enemies or was it because of a different reason? Sollel didn’t know. She asked him his name before they entered the Valley of Bones. And his answer was a combination of truth and lies, but she let it go and let him accompany her. To see what he wanted from her.

And as they traverse the Valley of Bones, Sollel finally found out what Hakken wanted from her.

Although, she was not expecting that her simple bait would uncover more than what she hoped for. She didn’t expect that she would also uncover a love that transcended three lifetimes, and that love was still burning selflessly, not asking anything in return.

How could she— the object of his love— ignore such affection?

Recalling her memories with him all those years ago, his marriage proposal before their battle, he was so adorable back then too. She even remembered feeling bad that she won. At that time, she even thought that it wouldn’t be that bad to have a warlord for a husband.

“— at me, my lady.”

Sollel blinked enumerable times hearing Hakken’s voice, pulling her out from her deep thoughts. “What were you saying?”

Hakken smiled teasingly. “I was asking why you were looking at me like that.”

“Oh,” Sollel smiled. “I was just thinking of something. Anyway,” Sollel took a deep breath. “I’d been wondering, how did you cross the Shivering Valley so fast?”

“Shortcut.”

Sollel’s eyebrow shot up at that. “A shortcut?” Then the route we took was a long one?

Hakken nodded. “Yes.”

Sollel exhaled at what she learned. Had he purposely taken the long route? That warlord! “Is it dangerous?”

Hakken nodded. “But nothing we can’t handle. The dangerous part is the temperature and the blizzard at night, but other than that, it was bearable if you knew the right route.”

Sollel inwardly shook her head, then she stared at Hakken. “Funny, you’re always worried about me, but you didn’t even ask, not even once, who I was with and who helped me in Shivering Valley.”

Hakken looked down below, as if escaping Sollel’s gaze. “You’re the Mistress of Flame. I know you can manage. You’re a strong woman.”

Sollel chuckled. “Said the man who wanted to fight the monsters with me earlier because he didn’t want to be away from me.”

Hakken remained silent, so Sollel didn’t push for an answer and sighed. “The one who helped me was Warlord Hakkeran, the one who injured you.” While telling her story, she was watching the emotion on Hakken’s face. “Contrary to what I thought, he was very sweet. Not a day passes that he didn’t treat me as a queen. And I like him a lot for that.” Hakken’s jaw tightened. Oh, my hunter, there’s more where that came from. “Though he was very serious with me, which I find adorable too.” Hakken’s face darkened, but Sollel continued. “Then I found out that he had my Solaris . I don’t know if he knew, but to wear my Solaris you have to be very loyal to me. In every sense of the word.”

Hakken finally spoke. “Do you like him better?”

Sollel frowned at Hakken. “Why? You’re going to give me to him?”

“No!” Hakken couldn’t control his voice that Grath, and Zassia who were on the other side of the tree heard him. Then Hakken immediately lowered his voice when he spoke again. “I mean, I don’t want to. I want you all for myself.”

“And here I thought you left all the negativity behind.”

Hakken looked at Sollel then his eyes automatically dropped down to her lips. And it didn’t escape Sollel’s eyes when Hakken licked his lips while looking at hers as if he was looking at a delectable food. “I guess, I just don’t want to share you, my lady.”

Sollel smiled. “How selfish.”

“When it comes to you, my lady, yes, I am.” Then Hakken scooted closer to Sollel and pressed his lips on hers.

Sollel accepted it wholeheartedly. It was a soft and sweet kiss. But it only took a second before it turned into a hot fiery kiss. Hakken’s lips were aggressive again, devouring her lips and tongue. Sollel had to stop herself from moaning at how good it felt. Good thing Hakken pulled away before she lost control of herself and moaned.

“You’re one naughty hunter,” Sollel said while shaking her head.

“I guess, I am.” Hakken pressed his lips on hers again. It was just a peck, and, in a heartbeat, he was showering her with kisses as if he couldn’t get enough of her, then he captured her mouth once again and gave her wet kisses that Sollel answered wholeheartedly.

Sollel was not a prude. She lacked experience, yes, but the knowledge the elders taught her, and the other queens were still clear in her mind. She only didn’t put it to practice before because no one was brave enough to kiss her, afraid she’ll burn them… Which she would have if they tried.

But with Hakken, she had no thoughts about burning him at all. Her thoughts were more indecent, and dirty.

Because kissing Hakken opened so many sensations in her body and she wanted to explore them one by one. Only if they had time and privacy.

Sollel softly pushed Hakken and pointed her fingers to their companion on the other side of the tree. “They’ll hear us.”

Hakken bit her lower lip in response before he pulled away completely, looking satisfied with a wide smile on his lips.

Sollel shook her head. “Someone’s happy.”

“Who wouldn’t be?” He glanced at her. “I just kissed the love of my life whom I waited three lifetimes to see and touch. I think I’m entitled to feel like I’m going crazy.”

Sollel chuckled at that. “You know what, Hakken, you should take back all the negativity you left behind. I want to meet the whole you. I think the complete you will be amazing.”

Hakken stared at Sollel intently before he answered. “Maybe I will… But not anytime soon.”

“Then promise me one thing.”

“Promise what, my lady?”

“The moment you decided to take back the negative you, come to me and let me see you first.” There was no teasing in Sollel’s face. She was dead serious. “I want to meet the whole you before anyone else.”

“Why?” Hakken was genuinely curious.

Sollel shrugged. “Because you’re mine, of course. That is, if you want to be owned by me.”

“All yours, my lady.” Hakken’s answer was fast and without an ounce of hesitation. “From head to toe. Body, mind, heart, and soul. All yours.”

Sollel smiled in satisfaction. “Then, you can have me too—” Hakken’s lips parted, until Sollel added, “— of course, you have to be whole for that to happen.”

Hakken immediately sulked. “You’re so mean and such a tease, my lady.”

Sollel just chuckled and kissed Hakken’s cheek. “If I’m not a tease, then I’m not your lady. I don’t tease people I don’t like. I don’t speak to them, period.”

That made a frown on Hakken’s eyebrow. “So, when you were not speaking to me at first, you didn’t like me?”

“Yes.”

Hakken looked at her in disbelief. “How could you hurt me like this, my lady?”

Sollel just chuckled at Hakken and poked his cheek. “I did like your face. You’re quite handsome, though if I compared you to the warlord, I’d say he’s point-zero-one percent more handsome.”

Hakken looked at his lady flatly. “Are you making me jealous, my lady?”

“Are you?” Sollel chuckled as if something was funny. “If you’re jealous, it’ll be more fun, I think.”

Hakken just sighed and leaned on his lady’s shoulder while sitting sideways and his lady was facing him. He smiled when his lady just lets him lean on her. And it felt nice because the night was cold, and she felt warm— literally.

Never in his long and continues life did Hakken expect that a time will come that he would be this close to his beloved. Just sitting like this with his queen felt like he was the luckiest being in Azitera. This was a blessing.

Sollel couldn’t help smiling when she found Hakken snoozing softly while leaning on her shoulder. To secure his body so he wouldn’t fall, she wrapped her arms around him and pulled him closer. Hakken was always looking out for her, so this time, it was her time to look out for him.

Sollel secured Hakken’s body as he sleeps. And since she didn’t really need sleep to function, she stayed awake, and she volunteered to be a guard so Zassia and Grath could sleep. But when midnight came, it was dark and no moon, she heard a crawling and a hissing sound from the ground beneath them. Wanting to see what it was, Sollel dropped a small ball of flame and what she saw made her hair rose.

It was the long bug from earlier this morning. Zassia called it Peripatus. But the horde on the ground were smaller and faster because of its size and they were eating everything in their path! Trees, carcass, bones and even rocks! And they were close to the tree they were at!

“Holy! Wake up!” Sollel shouted for everyone to hear her. Zassia, Grath, and Hakken immediately opened their eyes and became aware of their surroundings. “Let’s get out of here!”

Without waiting, Sollel jumped to the ground. When her feet touched the dry land, flame erupted on the ground, creating a circle shape safe space where her companion could land. And seeing that her flames could not stop thousands of Peripatus at the same time and fighting these little crawling bugs will drain her before she annihilated everything, Sollel sent out an order.

“Run!”

Grath immediately picked up Zassia who was slow when it comes to running and they sprinted together with Hakken, but when Hakken saw that his lady stayed to hold off the thousands of Peripatus, he went back to grab his lady’s hand.

“Come on, my lady! Let’s run!” Hakken shouted and only then did Sollel turn around and run with Hakken. The long crawling Peripatus were hot on the heels and as they run to escape, the two lost sight of Zassia and Grath who went running first, but they couldn’t find the time nor the chance to look for them because the crawling Peripatus were so close to devouring them and the only thing blocking their path was Sollel’s flame, but even that was not enough to stop the thousands Peripatus devouring the land.

Sollel and Hakken just run without minding where they were going. As long as there were no Peripatus, their feet unconsciously run towards it. The duo were too preoccupied of their Peripatus that they didn’t realize they were about to collide with a group that they wanted to avoid at all cost.

But it was already too late.

The moment Sollel’s cloak glowed red, as if warning her that a moonrite stone was near, her eyes narrowed on the group of sorcerers, sorceress, warriors and two descendants of Sapphers warlords who were also running from the same thing.

And they were only meters apart from collision.

Simultaneously, the moment Sollel and Hakken realized that they were about to collide with the enemies, the enemy camp also discovered that they were about to come into collision with the Mistress of Flame!

And everyone froze. They didn’t know what to do.

Fight the enemy or fight the crawling Peripatus?

Sollel answer was to fight both. But the pesky crawling Peripatus were now upon them, her eyes unconsciously settled on Warlord Hakkeran who also had his eyes on her and Hakken. Hakkeran subtly nodded, Sollel didn’t know if it was for her or for Hakken.

Then a moment later, the fight between monsters versus the Mistress of Flame and a Hunter versus the Kingdom of Treterra sorcerer and sorceress and the two descendants of Sapphers warlords broke loose. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 53

CHAPTER 53

UNDER THE starless and moonless sky, the crimson color of flame covered the sky and balls of flame mercilessly rained down on the desolate valley, burning everything on the ground. From monsters to dead trees and any visible vegetation. Maybe if there was no moonrite stone present, Sollel’s flame might’ve burned the humans too. Unfortunately, moonrite stone was her weakness, but fortunately, she had her cloak to absorb half of its effect.

But her strength was still limited and being suppressed by the stone.

As the sea of flames covered the ground, Hakken left Sollel’s side and in a heartbeat, his war blades slashed General Kar who was surprised at the hunter’s speed. Kar didn’t remember the hunter whom he beat into pulp in the Valley of Bones to survive after his attacks, more so to see him fight fiercely. Kar felt like he was fighting a different man. The killing intent was palpable, the hunter’s war blades were so fierce that it made Kar staggered back.

The hunter was so fast that Kar was having a hard time keeping up with his speed. His war hammer could smash and crush anyone, but its weight was its disadvantage in battle. Its weight limits his speed. Even using its ability, the condensed air sucking the hunter close so he could smash him to pulp, the hunter didn’t even struggle to break free from his arcane weapon’s ability.

The hunter lets the condenser air pulled him and just when Kar was about to deliver a mighty blow from his war hammer, his eyes widened, and he staggered back when he saw the hunter flipped his body mid-air and used his war blades to slash him on the front, wounding Kar and making him bleed!

Kar was not expecting such fighting prowess that it left him speechless. All he could remembering was beating this hunter and how weak he was— the reason why he underestimated him.

And now standing in front of the wounded General, Hakken rested the back of his war blades on his shoulder and smirked as he said, “payback for what you did to me in the Valley of Bones.”

Wounded but tenacious, Kar gripped his war hammer and he attacked. But the Hunter was fast. Dodging his war hammer was an easy feat to the hunter, as if he knew the weakness of his weapon.

Gritting his teeth, Kar cussed and bombarded the hunter with formidable smashes. Kar was not going to admit defeat. The man was but a hunter. He should be no match for him.

At the moment that Hakken and Kar was fighting, the Adral warriors were focused on killing the monsters while the kingdom’s mighty sorcerer and sorceress were hopelessly attacking the Mistress of Flame. But all their attacks were meaningless to the queen. It was like a child play was Warlord Hakkeran put it back when everyone was imprisoned near the Shivering Valley.

The sorcerer and sorceress were feeling the frustration seeing how the Mistress of Flame was repelling their attacks effortlessly, like swatting a bug. Even with the moonrite stone in their hands, they saw the Mistress of Flame yawned as if they were boring her.

“I apologized,” the Mistress of Flame’s voice was melodious, like a soft and caring caress. “I haven’t had a good night’s sleep.” The queen flicked her wrist and the small monsters that was about to attack was burnt with no carcass left. “I miss my bed.” She said longingly before she summoned another ball of flames and let it rain down on the sorcerer and sorceress.

The flame may not be as fierce as they remembered, maybe because of the moonrite stone’s effect on her— if it was affecting her at all— they managed to survive the queen’s attack with only bruises and small burnt.

Sollel sighed, seeing how weak her attacks were. “I’m so weak.”

The sorcerer and sorcerers who heard it, their eyes bulged in disbelief, and they were all thinking the same thing.

That was weak?!

“I’ll fight her.” A baritone and firm voice from behind the sorcerer and sorceress.

Somehow, the Kingdom of Treterra’s sorcerers felt safe seeing that it was warlord Hakkeran with his war blades. They believed that if there was someone who could fight the Mistress of Flame toe to toe, it was the warlord and the General.

The sorcerers immediately stepped back and let the warlord took over. Their attacks were now focused on the monsters surrounding them, helping the Adral warriors in purging them. But from time to time, they would glance at the Mistress of Flame and Warlord Hakkeran and they were left in awe seeing the fight between the two.

The warlord was fierce in close combat, not afraid of the flame and the Mistress of Flame was insanely fast casting flame attacks and another. Unlike Flame sorcerers who sometimes needed time to summon a strong flame attack, the Mistress of Flame was a different being. Her attacks were fast, fierce, and deadly. One wrong move and they all knew the warlord would get burned.

But their view gradually changed as the fight continued and the two— the Mistress of Flame and the warlord disappeared in their line of sight and into the darkness. They could still see the flame explosion, but that was it.

And it was not only the sorcerers and sorceress who saw the fight, from the corner of General Kar’s eyes, he saw how fierce the battle was between the Mistress of Flame and the warlord. He wanted to lend a hand, but the hunter was not letting him. He was at a disadvantage himself. Hard as it may to swallow, but he was losing.

The hunter accompanying the Mistress of Flame was too skilled to be crushed by his war hammer. It was as if the hunter knew every move he made and every weakness of his attacks.

General Kar was sure that he was at a disadvantage, but when the Mistress of Flame and warlord Hakkeran disappeared into the night while still fighting, the hunter immediately noticed and backed away, then he started sprinting towards the direction where the two disappeared.

“Come back here!” General Kar used the ability of his war hammer to pull the hunter back, but the hunter was fast on his feet.

Kar ran after the hunter, but before he could follow, the pesky monsters, hundreds or so blocked his path and some were chasing the hunter.

Cussing at his inability to assist warlord Hakkeran who now had to fight two opponents because he let the hunter escape, Kar felt devastated. But his devastation had to be controlled. He still had some sorcerer and sorceress to protect from monsters.

On the other hand, Gabin, who was commanding the Adral warriors sighed when he saw his excellency disappeared with the Mistress of Flame and left him again to clean his mess. He was certain that his lordship did it so the queen could escape since the cloak the queen was wearing had a limit of how much moonrite stone effect it could absorb. It was after all just an enchanted clothing to protect the queen for a time being, not forever. I just wished that his excellency will be back in one piece. Since it looked like he angered the queen. I will not even be shocked if he returned burnt.

Gabin sighed. I should ready the medicine just in case.

♕ ♕ ♕

IN AN UNKNOWN part of the desolate valley, away from everyone sight, Sollel and Hakkeran stopped attacking each other and just stood on the opposite side, facing one another. The two shared an intense gaze until someone panting appeared from the darkness.

It was Hakken.

And standing there, seeing the two men in front of her, Sollel started laughing as if someone just drop a joke and she was having the time of her life. And all the two men could do was stare at Sollel, confused, and just waited for her to sober up.

It took Sollel a full minute to stop laughing before she could face Hakken and Hakkeran again with a serious face. “So,” her eyebrow raised at the two, “what are we going to do with you two?”

Hearing that question, it was as if Hakken and Hakkeran realized their situation and the two looked at each other while Sollel was just watching the two.

“Both descendants of Sappher,” Sollel said, “both not carrying their arcane weapon. As far as I know, even the lowest rank warrior had one. So, what happened to you two?”

No one answered, then Hakkeran turned around and said, “I should go back.”

But before Hakkeran could take one step to go back, the thousand crawling Peripatus that was chasing Hakken finally caught up and if Hakkeran was not agile and didn’t leap back immediately, he would have lost one of his legs. And as he leaps back, flame erupted from the ground, courtesy of the queen, and then the three went running in the same direction.

Sollel was in the center, Hakken was on Sollel’s left while Hakkeran was on her right.

The crawling monsters were too many that all they could do was run while looking for a place to hide, but when they didn’t find any, Sollel abruptly stop.

“My lady!” Hakken exclaimed, seeing Sollel stopped to face the monsters after pulling one of his war blades that was strapped on his back. “Come on!”

“My queen!” Hakkeran became instantly worried seeing how pissed Sollel looked. “Let’s go!”

“Shut up! I’m done running!” Sollel hissed and with gritted teeth, she cut her palm with Hakken’s sword that immediately melted at the contact with her blood. And as her lava-like blood dripped down, she called her blood of flame. “Heed my call and burn fiercely. Use thy blood to sustain its life. Corrosion!”

Sollel’s blood drop on the ground and a flame erupted on the spot, then the same flame crawled on the ground, making a circle around them. Hakken had seen it before, his lady always used her crawling flame to defend herself and her allies and caged her foes, but the flame now was different. Even its color was different. It was deep red. The color of blood. It was only two feet high, but the monsters trying to pass the flame couldn’t reach the center of the circle with its life intact.

Every monster that passed the flame started dying slowly, as if touching the flame corrodes their life. Before the monsters could reach the center where they were standing, the monsters were already dead. Not even a carcass was left behind.

Indeed, a life corrosion. Slow death, but lethal.

It was the first time Hakken and Hakkeran saw it and they immediately felt the chill in their bones. The beings blessed by the deities were really not to be trifled with.

However, their awe was replaced by worry when the queen grabbed Hakken’s another sword and cut her palm again. Instead of closing her wound with her flame, she made another cut and let her blood drip to the ground.

Hakken immediately grabbed Sollel’s wrist to check her wounds. “My lady, close your wounds now.”

Hakkeran who was just as worried as Hakken just stared at his queen. Not moving an inch. Unlike Hakken who immediately went to Sollel, Hakkeran was not a soft man. He knew his queen will be okay. Even worried, Hakkeran believed in his queen. He believed in her strength and supremacy. He was after all the man who left his beloved queen in the Shivering Valley alone, only leaving a map to fend for herself so he could carry out his plan.

“I’m fine,” Sollel patted Hakken’s cheek softly as if to calm him down. “My blood needs to continue dripping to sustain my blood flame on the ground. I don’t use this because it weakens me, but desperate times call for desperate measure.” Seeing her wound closing again, being healed by her blood flame, Sollel asked Hakken for a knife or something to cut her palm again.

“No!” Hakken hissed at Sollel.

On the other hand, Hakkeran provided the knife and handed it to Sollel.

Hakken glared at Hakkeran. “You…!”

“She asked for it,” Hakkeran said in a matter-of-fact voice, as if anything Sollel asked, even how dangerous and life threatening it was, he would give. “I’m certain Her Highness would not do anything stupid that would risk her life in the process.”

“Even so!” Hakken snapped. “Her safety is our priority!”

“But she’s safe.” Hakkeran even motioned his hand at Sollel. “Isn’t she?”

Sollel was feeling a little weak because of her blood continuously dripping from her wound, but she still laughed at the two. And hearing Sollel’s melodious laugh, the two stopped bickering and Hakkeran asked.

“You’re okay… right?” He was worried, but it seems like he didn’t know how to show it.

Sollel nodded and accepted the knife Hakkeran provided for her. “I need more knife. This puny metal could not withstand my blood flame.”

Hakkeran nodded and from his ring, a pile of knife appeared on the ground.

Hakken frowned at Hakkeran and asked in annoyance. “Really?”

Hakkeran shrugged. “It’s handy when I want to kill someone.”

Hakken looked unimpressed, but Sollel was chuckling seeing the two arguing.

“I’ll be fine,” Sollel told Hakken before she sat on the ground and immediately, Hakken sat in the space in front of her while the warlord sat a meter away.

“Are you certain, my lady?” Hakken asked in a whisper, “you said this weakens you. You have to stop if you can’t endure it anymore. If we have to run, I’ll carry you.”

Sollel chuckled at Hakken and playfully flicked his nose. “Silly. It’s not like I don’t want to literally run, I just hate running away from my enemies. I was taught to always fight head on. And I like burning monsters. It’s fun.”

“But you’re hurt…”

“I said I’m fine,” Sollel rested her forehead on Hakken’s shoulder. “Don’t worry about me.”

Hakken didn’t say anything and just caressed his lady’s hair. Meanwhile, Sollel turned her head and rested the side of her head on Hakken’s shoulder while her eyes were on Hakkeran. He was looking at them and Sollel could see the pain he was trying to control. And when Hakkeran saw her looking at him, he looked away.

Seeing that, Sollel pulled away from Hakken and sat straight. And from time to time, she would cut her palm to make her blood continue to drip and sustain her blood flame corrosion. And as time passed, Sollel started to weaken, and drowsiness gradually fell on her. She fought it until the monsters finally realized they couldn’t pass her flame and started avoiding the flame and went passed them.

Sollel didn’t know how long she fell asleep, when she woke up, the sun was finally peeking on the sky, but it was still slightly dark. Hakken was now sitting beside her, holding her hand, and sleeping in an upright position. Sollel didn’t even know Hakken could sleep like that.

Meanwhile, Hakkeran was still awake, and his war blades were in front of him, ready to kill any monster that would come near them.

Sollel smiled at how serious Hakkeran. 

“Did you sleep?” Sollel asked.

Hakkeran shook his head.

“Are you okay?” Sollel asked again.

Hakkeran face his queen and stared at her. I’m jealous, Hakkeran wanted to say those words, but stopped himself. The queen was better off without him. His purpose was to be his queen’s guard in the shadow, and in the shadow he will remain.

Sollel raised her hand and open her palm at Hakkeran. “Give me your hand.”

Hakkeran listened and place his hand on his queen’s palm. And what the queen did afterwards surprise him.

His queen imbued her essence on the Solaris on his wrists and smiled before she said, “I have a feeling that you will leave once the sun is out and return to your group. With my essence with you, I will feel where you are, and we could avoid bumping into each other.”

Hakkeran looked down at his wrist before looking at his queen. “How long will it last?”

“Enough that we won’t cross path again in this valley. As long as you’re with the enemies, I will know where they are.”

Hakkeran took a deep breath and he stood up. With a determination on his gait, he crossed the distance between them and while standing in front of her, he leaned down, carefully cupped her face as if she was delicate and guided her face to look up at him. And before Sollel could ask what he was up to, his lips pressed on Sollel’s.

Tender. Sweet. And quick.

Hakkeran pulled away a breath later then he smiled tenderly and said, “wish me luck, my Krahika.”

Sollel was too stunned to speak and react that she could only watch as the warlord left and disappeared from her sight.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 54

CHAPTER 54

SOLLEL WAS still feeling weak that she was thankful that Hakken could easily take care of the monsters they encountered while looking for Grath and Zassia. But something still worries Sollel, and that was Hakken’s silence. He had been silent since he woke up, and every time she would open a conversation, after a one or two answers, their conversation always ends in silence.

And Sollel hated that.

“Do you have a problem with me, Hakken?” Sollel straightforwardly asked Hakken.

Hakken, who was in front of Sollel, continued walking as he answered. “No, my lady.”

Sollel almost rolled her eyes, but she didn’t press Hakken to answer. She let him be. Instead, she focused on feeling Zassia’s flame essence, so they could find them fast and also narrowing her radar on Hakkeran to know the enemy’s movement. As long as she knew where Hakkeran was, they could easily maneuver so they wouldn’t cross path with them again.

And finally, after a few hours of looking for Grath, and Zassia, Sollel and Hakken found the two battling with a transparent looking ant-bug.

Sollel didn’t need to lend a hand, seeing how Zassia and Grath were dominating the battle. Instead of helping the two, Sollel observe Zassia and Grath’s growth in terms of their flame essence and how they wield them, and she couldn’t help clapping her hands after the battle and the two won.

“Teacher!”

“Your Highness!”

Zassia was beaming with happiness when she saw her queen. While Grath felt relieved that he didn’t need to put up with Zassia’s constant worrying if the queen was okay or not.

“I’m impressed.” Sollel smiled at the two. “You’ve improved a lot.”

To hear the queen’s compliment, the two was beaming, but seeing Hakken being so serious in the corner, it dampened Grath and Zassia’s mood. The two knew that something clearly happened to see a sudden shift in Hakken’s attitude.

He looked so happy yesterday, Zassia thought before she neared her highness and asked in a low voice. “Did something happen to Lord Hakken?”

The queen just shrugged and answered in a loud voice that Hakken could surely hear. “I don’t know, Zassia. He had been like that since this morning. I kept asking if he had a problem with me, but he kept saying he had none which is a lie because I could tell when he’s sulking.”

Grath, and Zassia looked at Hakken and even the two could tell that Lord Hakken was sulking— seriously sulking.

“Let’s just go,” said Sollel when Hakken didn’t speak.

She was not going to sweeten him so he would stop sulking because she knew it was not her fault. Coddling Hakken would be fun, she was sure of that, but she would not tolerate such attitude.

Maybe Hakken was really pissed because every monster that blocked their path was all brutally killed by him. Grath, and Zassia didn’t even need to lend a hand, Hakken took care of them all as if he was managing his anger through lashing out on the monsters.

Sollel was not complaining, it made their journey faster and safer.

At the time when night fell, Sollel used her blood flame corrosion again to create a circle shape flame to keep them safe from monsters. As it weakened here, in the middle of the night, Sollel’s started dozing off. Her head kept bobbling, but she was forcing her eyes to stay open, fighting off her drowsiness.

Her head bobbled countless times before someone caught it and then let her head lean on a firm shoulder before a strong arm wrapped around her waist to pull her close. Sollel knew it was Hakken. Zassia and Grath would never dare touch her so intimately like this.

“You’re not sulking anymore…?” Sollel asked in a sleepy voice.

“I’m not sulking.” Hakken denied. “I was just thinking.”

“You look like you’re sulking to me.”

“I’m not,” Hakken kept denying. “Why would I?”

“Hmm, I don’t know…” Sollel drawls as her eyes continued to close, “maybe because you saw Hakkeran kissed me?” It was the only valid explanation to Sollel. “Why are you jealous anyway? It’s not like he’s taking me away from you. I mean, even if he kissed me a hundred times, you still shouldn’t be jealous and you know it…”

Hakken had no answer to that and just watch his lady fell asleep on his shoulder.

It was not just jealousy, really. It was the trust she had given to Hakkeran that was making him angry. It took him a lot of time to have a conversation with her. A lot of effort to make her smile and laugh. A lot of diligence to earn her trust.

But Hakkeran… How long does she know him? He heard their conversation. He heard the trust in her voice, how dependent she was. Was it because of the Solaris she mentioned? Was that because of that thing that she trusted Hakkeran so much more than she trusts him?

It was maddening, but as his lady said earlier, it was not like Hakkeran was taking his lady away from him. He knew it was not like that, but he still couldn’t stop feeling jealousy… Feeling selfish and greedy.

Here he thought that he already left every negative attitude he had behind so he could walk amongst humans without losing his wit, but here he was, still feeling them. Was it because his beloved queen was involved? Because it was his Krahika?

By her words, Hakken felt like she knew something. He felt the changes in her treatment and demeanor towards him after they entered the Valley of Bones. But what does she know? Hakken asked himself. And if she did know something, just how much does she actually know?

Should he assume that she remembered him? But wasn’t that too much of an assumption on his part? He was but a warrior when they fought, and she fought a lot of warriors after his defeat. To assume that she remembers me… Wouldn’t that make me presumptuous?

Hakken could only sigh and kissed his lady on her temple. You are indeed my queen. The perfect façade I made for you is falling apart because of you too. What am I going to do with myself? He knew very well that his lady had been betrayed and what she abhors was lies and treachery, but he had been lying to her… For the sake of the plan he prepared.

♕ ♕ ♕

GABIN WAS WORRIED. His excellency had been silent since he came back from ‘fighting’ the Mistress of Flame. Everyone thinks that he was silent because the queen got away, but Gabin knew his lordship better than anyone. When he’s this silent, it means he was cooking up something.

So when the group continued advancing, looking for the traces of the Mistress of Flame, Gabin walked beside his excellency and spoke in a low voice.

“Was it worth it, Your Excellency?”

Instead of answering Gabin, Hakkeran just stared at the bracelet on his wrist. And when Gabin thought his excellency would remain silent, he spoke.

“She… trusts me, Gabin.”

“Isn’t that what you wanted?” Gabin was trying to understand his lordship. “You planned all this, Your Excellency. From your rebirth, to who will sire you so you can infiltrate the empire’s nobility rank, why you choose the second prince as your father, why you never showed to the public your arcane weapon, why you defeated and conquered countless of small kingdoms for the empire, why of all places, you choose the ruins of Yther’s kingdom under the Infernal Empire to established Adral when the emperor asked you what you wanted for a reward when you defeated the Kingdom of Luthrene for the empire. Everything you did, everything you gave and took is for this day to come. Why are you feeling melancholy now, Your Excellency?”

“Because I’m not by her side, Gabin. That’s what makes me lonely.” Hakkeran confessed while staring at the item on his wrist.

“There is a reason why you’re not.” Gabin answered. “You choose this, Your Excellency. You planned this. You have a role to play, and I suggest you play it well, so when the time comes that the queen asks for the truth and your honesty, you will be able to tell her your exploits proudly. As your trusted aide, I want nothing more than your happiness and to serve the whole you, Your Excellency, so let’s not dally and do our jobs properly. You want to be with the Queen? Then let’s continue with our plan. I received a message earlier; everything is now ready in the Infernal Empire. Time to make your final move, your Excellency.”

Hakkeran took a deep breath and buried all the loneliness he was feeling. “You’re right, the faster we finished this. The fast I can be with my queen.”

Gabin nodded and smiled seeing the determination on his excellency’s face. Just like his lordship, he wanted this to be over. Seeing his excellency in pain and suffering for so many lifetimes, Gabin wanted nothing more than to see his lordship whole and happy.

♕ ♕ ♕

“CIRA, ARE you sure we’re in the right direction?” Xeke asked because he’s been following Cira for a few days now and they still haven’t arrived at their destination. “Are you sure you remember?”

Cira was just standing there. Xeke was worried so he teleported to her front only to see her crying silently like a child.

“Why are you crying?”

As if Xeke’s question triggered something, Cira started wailing. “I can’t remember, okay?! I think we’re on the wrong path, I mean, right, but I don’t know anymore! We’d been looking for days! I’m tired, Xeke! I’m tired!”

Xeke took a deep breath and patted Cira’s head affectionately. “There, there… stop crying. I’ll try if I can find the right way.”

Cira immediately grabbed Xeke’s hand to stop him from leaving. “Don’t leave me here!”

Xeke handed Cira one of his ten daggers, “Stay here, rest and hold this. Wait for me. I will immediately teleport back to you once I found the right way.”

Cira pouted. “You’re not going to leave me behind?”

“How could I?” Xeke smiled and Cira find it charming. “I still have to work hard to earn your affection.”

Cira glared at Xeke. “My affection is for my queen only! She’s the most important.”

Xeke chuckled. “I know, I know. I don’t mind being the second most important in your life.”

“Not feasible. The second most important to me is myself.”

“Then the third?”

Cira looked away, “I guess I’m okay with that.”

Xeke smiled affectionately at Cira, and he did the unthinkable before he disappeared.

He stole a kiss from Cira’s lips, leaving Cira frozen in shock for a whole minute before she shouted.

“I’m going to kill you, Xeke!”

Cira didn’t know how far Xeke was, but she swore, he heard the bastard laughing at her threat, as if she will not do it. But she will— oh, she will! Her bow and arrow was ready for that theft!

♕ ♕ ♕

FEELING HER own flame essence, she imbued on her Solaris, Sollel could feel that the kingdom’s army will not find them anytime soon. And she was thankful that she was seeing less and less bug monsters on their path and the land were starting to change.

From dry to wet and muddy.

“We’re now entering the territory of the aquatic beast.” Zassia informed everyone.

“I don’t see any bugs anymore,” Grath voiced out his relief.

“They’re scared to come here,” it was Hakken who answered. “These aquatic beasts are more dangerous that they are.”

Sollel sighed heavily after what she heard. “The reason why I hate water so much. Something is always lurking in their depths. I don’t even understand why Aenwyn loved spending her time underwater.”

“Maybe the same reason why you like being surrounded with flame and burning monsters?”

Sollel stared blankly at Hakken. “Are you taking Aenwyn’s side now?”

“Not at all.” Hakken answered suavely and earnestly. “You’re the queen I’m in love with. I would never take anyone’s side other than yours, my lady.”

“You better not, Hakken. Or I will burn you alive.”

“As I said, all yours, my lady.”

Zassia, who could hear the two bickering behind her, smiled, while Grath only shook his head while staying vigilant on their surroundings.

“We’re approaching the marshland.” Zassia informed everyone again when she saw the body of water up ahead.

The water was dirty, very suspicious and Sollel think there were some monsters beneath it, so she was reluctant to continue.

If only I can summon my flame wings, I could fly and reach Hallowed Valley in no time, Sollel thought, but she was still weak to summon her wings. Her blood flame now would not be able to sustain it. But Gatria is on the other side… I have to conquer this marshland.

“After this marshland, I think there’s still a wide long river.”

Sollel nearly groaned at what she heard, but she kept her dislike of marshland and river to herself. Stream, pool, and tub, she could handle, because they were shallow, but the body of water that they had to cross now was the type of water she strongly dislikes.

“Can’t we build a raft to cross the marshland?” Sollel asked. She didn’t really want to dip even one of her foot in the marshland. “Who knows what kind of monster is in there. There could be a man-eating fish, or something similar.”

“Not man-eating fish, teacher, but bloodsucking and poisonous fish.”

Sollel smiled wryly at Zassia. “Good to know, little Zassia.”

Zassia smiled happily, not sensing the sarcasm on Sollel’s voice.

“Grath, let’s make a raft.” Said Hakken seeing the displeasure on Sollel’s face as she looked at the marshland. “It’ll be safer if we have one. I already have a rope here; we only need plank and some other kinds of woods.”

Grath nodded and immediately went looking for woods or any material that could be used to build a raft. Hakken did the same. Meanwhile, Zassia was telling Sollel what kind of monster inhabitant could possibly live in the marshland, much to Sollel’s displeasure, but she had no other choice than to accept Zassia’s knowledge.

“How did you know about these monsters?” Sollel asked, trying to change the topic.

“I have a weak flame essence before,” Zassia snorted at herself, “no, more like, I have no flame essence and I was so weak. I can’t be like my grandma or my mother, so I focused on the things I can do which was to study and read. I became a scholar in the empire, until…” Zassia drawls and didn’t continue.

“Until what, Zassia?” Sollel pressed for answer. She wanted to know what happened to her.

“Until General Adri of the empire called for me,” Zassia gripped the staff she was carrying. “It was weeks after a rumor about the Mistress of Flame spread. He asked me to accompany him to my village. I agreed because I thought he meant no harm.” Zassia looked down at her feet as tears fell from her eyes. “But when we arrived, he and his soldiers started slaughtering the people in my village, saying that we were all helping the Mistress of Flame to hide since we worship her. I— I begged him to spare us, but he only laughed and accused us of a lot of things.” Zassia’s hands trembled. “It was me who guided him to my village— it was my fault…”

Sollel was too stunned to comment, hearing Zassia’s story and seeing her student cry.

“Grandma fought hard so I could escape,” Zassia wiped her tears, stopping herself from sobbing. “She gave me her precious staff,” Zassia raised the staff in her hand and a tear fell from her eyes again, “but even though my whole village fought valiantly, they were no match for the empire’s general, soldiers and sorcerers. It was thanks to Adral warriors that I escaped. Their commander, Commander Gabin, was the one who picked me up and rode his horse to take me away. He promised to keep the surviving villager safe when he left me in Ashmire. He also gave me money and told me to go to my grandfather for the time being. That’s when I met teacher in the forest…

Zassia bit her lower lip, “I have no news about my grandma. I’m worried, but I know I can’t go back. I have to trust Commander Gabin’s promise. My grandma and all the people in my village would be very happy and proud of me if she found out that I’m serving our queen. That’s why I have to be strong, so I won’t disappoint you, my teacher, and my grandma.”

Sollel’s heart ached for Zassia. Violence against their own people! How inhumane could they be?!

“After we save Gatria, we’ll avenge your villagers, Zassia. I promise you that.” Zassia has already grown on Sollel and seeing her student cry because of humans, Sollel hatred on humans grew even more.

Zassia sniffed while drying her tears. “Thank you, teacher.”

Sollel patted Zassia’s head and she smiled. “Cheer up now. I’m sure the Adral warriors saved your surviving villagers.” Adral Warriors … Hakkeran Adral. Sollel looked at Hakken who was now making a raft with Grath. Looks like I have a lot to thank Hakkeran for. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 55

CHAPTER 55

SOLLEL WAS in the center of the raft, not moving an inch, as three balls of flame floated around her. Yes, she was more than ready to attack, but after an hour navigating the marshland, nothing was happening. Thought that didn’t bring down Sollel’s guard one bit. She believed that something was in the water, and she had to be prepared.

“My lady, are you okay?” Hakken asked, seeing how stiff Sollel was.

Sollel was looking around, checking the marshland’s surface. “I’m okay. I just hate this kind of body of water.”

Hakken couldn’t help smiling, amused. “So, the Mistress of Flame has fears too.”

Sollel glared at Hakken, “I don’t like things that I can’t burn and can escape my flame.” Then she turned to Grath, “can we hurry up, Grath? I don’t want to spend a night in this marshland.”

Everyone could see that the queen hated the marshland, so Grath started rowing fast. Unfortunately, the vibration their raft made in the water as they move fast was awakening the inhabitant of the marshland.

Suddenly, Sollel’s felt the raft shook, as if something bumped into it.

“What’s that?” Sollel asked as she hurriedly got up and looked at the water.

Zassia who looked calm glanced at Sollel. “We just bumped into some vegetation, teacher.”

“No.” Sollel shook her head. “That is not vegetation.”

Sollel was more than ready to make it rain fire on the marshland when Hakken covered her eyes that were looking up in the sky, summoning her ball of flame. “My lady, you are not doing that. That kind of massive attack will attract the Kingdom’s people and monsters alike. And it will also destroy our raft.”

Sollel blows a loud breath and carefully pushed Hakken’s hand over her eyes away. “What do you want me to do? Something is in the water.”

“There’s always something in the water, my lady.”

Sollel blows a loud breath. “That is not helping at all!”

Hakken smiled and kissed his lady’s temple. “We’ll be fine, don’t worry about—”

Before Hakken could finish his words, they felt a strong force slammed on their raft from under the marshland.

“I told you!” Sollel hissed and bolts of flame immediately appeared on Sollel’s palm and fingertips, and Sollel shaped it into a whip. But of course, she also readied her ball of flames behind the clouds. For safety purposes.

The three were just as worried as Sollel, but they couldn’t help feeling amused seeing the queen so worked up. It was their first time to see the queen like that. She had always been strong and an epitome of indestructible with her flame, so to see the queen panicking was a new sight to behold for all of them.

However, even though their queen was amusing, they all readied their weapons to fight.

Grath readied his claws. Zassia readied her staff. And Hakken had his new war blades in an instant since his old once were melted by Sollel when they were running from those pesky devouring bugs.

Sollel immediately blessed Hakken’s war blades with her normal flame and they all looked at the water quietly, waiting for another attack. No one spoke. No one moved as they waited.

But they were not as ready as they thought there were when the monster living in the marshland finally showed up. It was huge! Four loud gasps were heard and Hakken’s rapid orders were heard.

“Grath! Let’s row this raft fast! Zassia, distract that fish! My lady! Attack it with your flame!”

With everyone getting orders from Hakken, they were in sync except for Sollel who was looking at the very long and very big slimy black fish.

“What is that?”

“A young bloodsucking fish, teacher.” Zassia happily provided the answer and Sollel shivered in disgust.

“Young? That’s young?” Sollel felt a little queasy seeing the fish slithering towards their direction as Zassia tries to distract it with her flame so Grath, and Hakken could row the raft fast and reached the other side of the marshland.

“Yes, teacher.” Zassia nodded and summoned a flame ball over the bloodsucking fish and dropped it, hitting the slithering fish’s head, but still no effect. “The adult is double its size.”

“Disgusting…” was all Sollel said before she imbued flame on her enchanted hand chain, and it morphed into a flaming bow.

And with her flaming bow and arrow, Sollel aimed and shoot rapidly. Hitting its body and head that was peeking out of the water. Sollel didn’t stop shooting, but even at her rapid speed, it was not doing damage to the beast.

It was maddening Sollel because she knew why her attacks were not doing any damage. The beast is in the water and the water was a natural repellant of flame.

“That’s it!” Sollel shouted with gritted teeth. “You are pissing me off!”

Sollel withdraw her flame from her hand chain, and she grabbed one of Hakken’s war blade strapped on his back, and without warning, she jumped so high from the raft and landed on the long fish’s head. Before the fish could react, Sollel already buried Hakken’s war blade at its head.

It should be the end of it seeing how the fish struggled to swim deeper into the marshland to escape, but Sollel was not finished with it.

“Hakken! Give me a rope!” Sollel shouted in anger and the stunned Hakken mindless took out a rope from his bag and just watch his lady in astonishment as she used the rope to tie the hilt of the war blade that was buried in the fish’s head, then she jumped again, from the fish’s head and pulled the fish into the air with her!

And in mid-air, the pitiful fish was rapidly and brutally kicked countless times and flung further into the air for more kicking and punching. From where the three were standing, on the raft, if they didn’t know that it was the queen in the air, they’ll think it was a mad woman rampaging. Sollel’s physical attacks were leaving flame and burnt marks on the fish’s body, burning its skin and inside.

When she was finally done and when she finally let the fish fell into the marshland with a big splash on impact, nearly knocking off the raft and the three balancing themselves not to fall into the water, Sollel calmly landed on the raft with a relieved big smile on her face while rubbing her hands off as if dusting away some dirt. “There. I’m calm now. Let’s go?”

The three who were shocked at the spectacle they witnessed just nodded but didn’t move.

Then Zassia turned to Hakken who still had his mouth open. “Lord Hakken, I suggest you don’t anger Her Highness.”

Hakken finally closed his gaping mouth and nodded. “Yes. Agreed.”

While Grath was so impressed at what he just saw that he couldn’t help voicing out how awed he was. “That was amazing, Your Highness! I didn’t know Her Highness is good in melee attacks too!”

Sollel took a deep satisfied breath and went back sitting on the center of the raft. “I don’t usually use my strength that comes with my flame, but there are times that I just want to hit and crush something so bad.”

Grath nodded because he, too, was a close combat warrior. “I thought Her Highness only had strong flame. Please, forgive my lack of judgement, Your Highness!”

Sollel nonchalantly waved her hand at Grath. “Don’t mind it. The deities who blessed us with the elemental essence also gave us physical strength. I just don’t use it often because my flame is enough, but that fish,” everyone glanced at the now dead fish floating on the marshland, “pissed me off so bad.”

Everyone smiled wryly, then Hakken was hit by a realization.

“My lady, where’s my war blade?”

That question made Sollel covered her mouth with her hands in surprise. “Oh. I think, um, it drowned?”

Hakken sighed heavily. “You melted my two war blades and now you drowned another one. Are you planning to make me weaponless?”

Sollel looked away with her lips slightly pouting. “Don’t be angry. It’s not like it’s your arcane weapon.”

Hakken sighed heavily again. “You are not allowed to use my war blades anymore, my lady.”

Sollel immediately frowned at Hakken. “Why?”

“Because I’ll be out of weapons once we arrived in the Hallowed Valley.”

Sollel grumbled but didn’t say anything and remained seated in the center of the raft as Hakken and Grath row it fast so they would reach the other side of the marshland quickly.

Unbeknownst to the four, no beast in the marshland would dare go near them after seeing their kind being brutally kicked, flung, and killed brutally and mercilessly. In short, Sollel scared them.

And because of the fear Sollel instilled on the monsters in the marshland, it was a smooth sailing ride to the other side. Unfortunately, when they reached the other side, Sollel still hated it because it was wet and muddle and Zassia ‘shared’ her knowledge again.

“Be careful with the holes and muds, If I remembered correctly, a very nasty small fish-like monster lives there. It’s flesh eating and poisonous. If you have wounds, it might enter and eat you from the inside.”

Sollel sighed as she looked at the holes scattered on the ground. Some of them were covered in mud and one might mistakenly step on it.

“I wish I can fly.” Sollel grumbled and Hakken glanced at Sollel when he heard it.

He wanted to fly too, it was easier and faster, but there were some reasons why he couldn’t. First, he was trying not to attract attention to himself. He was hiding being inconspicuous after all. Second, when one was flying over the Valley of Bones, they’ll encounter a mist that could make one hallucinate. And if one crossed the Shivering Valley using flight, the cold will kill you. But the desolate valley… As far as Hakken knew, one can fly over the desolate valley, though only up to the end of the aquatic beasts’ territory. Moving forward through flying was poisonous to anyone.

But now… It’s just them. No one will know. Hakken thought. No one will find out. No one will see.

Taking a transparent bead from his bag, Hakken contemplated first if it was a good idea before he summons his partner that was inside the bead, resting. Hakken knew it was not a good nor a safe idea, but if it meant his lady’s comfort, which was his priority, then he’ll risk it.

Meanwhile, Zassia, who saw the bead that Hakken took out from his bag, her eyes widened, and she exclaimed. “Oh, my deities! Is that an enchanted animal bead?!”

Hakken slightly leaned away when Zassia suddenly exclaimed. “Y-yes.”

“Holy… Deities! That item is so rare that only monarchs own them! Only the Druid King could make them, that’s what makes it so expensive” Zassia gasped in amazement again while staring at the bead with twinkling eyes. “You are really a very important person, Lord Hakken! To own such rare item!”

This was the reason why Hakken didn’t like taking it out, but for his lady. “It’s, um, a gift.”

Zassia didn’t care, but Grath didn’t buy Hakken’s explanation remembering Hakken’s story when they were crossing the Shivering Valley. And if Grath didn’t believe Hakken, Sollel even more so.

Hakken cleared his throat, “my gryphon can only travel to the end of the aquatic beasts’ territory. After that, we’re walking.”

Sollel who was silently watching Hakken raised her eyebrow. Is he finally being honest for once, or is this part of his plan too? Or maybe he just wants me to be comfortable and safe since I remember hearing him say to Hakkeran that my safety is ‘their’ priority? Sollel sighed. She didn’t know anymore, and she didn’t want to think. It might make her angry and unlike the fish she brutally beat up to death, she couldn’t do that to Hakken.

“Nessus, come out!” Hakken bellowed and as those words left his mouth, the bead shined brightly and the three watching the bead closely saw a figure with wings flew out of the bead and into the sky!

The four on the ground simultaneously looked up and saw a gryphon circle around them before it flew down and landed in front of Sollel.

A big and mighty gryphon. Staring straight into Sollel’s eyes as if measuring her worth and her strength.

Sollel’s left eyebrow rose as she stared back at the gryphon and the lava-like liquid in her eyes swirled. The staring contest lasted for a full minute as if the two were having a staring war before the gryphon purred and went to lick Sollel’s hand as if asking to be petted.

Hakken cleared his throat. “Nessus, come here.”

But Nessus didn’t even glance at Hakken, instead Nessus moved to surround Sollel with his large body and he was rubbing his feathers and beak on Sollel’s arm so affectionately.

Sollel smiled at how clingy the gryphon was and caressed its head. “You like me more than your master, huh?”

The gryphon made a sound of agreement making Sollel laughed. And her laughter subsided when the gryphon gestured Sollel to ride him.

Missing the feel of the air on her face while flying freely, Sollel immediately rode the gryphon and they were up in the sky in no time, flying high above and free. It was the best feeling in the world. And the gryphon was more than happy to fly Sollel in the air.

If Sollel hadn’t told the gryphon to land so they could continue their journey, Nessus wouldn’t even bother going back to its master. The gryphon was even grumbling when Hakken, Grath, and Zassia sit on its back. If not for Sollel constantly petting it and caressing its feathers, Nessus would continue to grumble the whole way.

“Ahh… This is the best.” Sollel strengthen her back and spread her arms as she feels the air. “I miss flying.”

Hakken, who was on the rear smiled at that. His lady never complained in their whole travel. Even if they slept on the ground, on the dead soil, or with rotting smell, she didn’t mind. Even when there was no place to sleep and they had to improvise, she never made a fuss. But when they entered the aquatic beasts’ territory here in the desolate land, she kept on complaining and Hakken knew she was uncomfortable.

Yes, it was risky, but worth it. Hakken thought after seeing his lady enjoying herself.

“Oh, look, teacher!” Zassia pointed something on the ground, a slithering long fish. “That’s the adult form of the one you beat up to death.”

The hair on Sollel’s body rose. “That’s disgusting.”

Zassia laughed. “Teacher, I just realized now, you really dislike aquatic beats.”

“I abhor them,” Sollel let out a loud breath. “I hate anything that has something to do with water— well, except of Aenwyn. She’s annoying sometimes, but we get along.” Sollel smiled at the memory. “We’re always getting into trouble and Gatria would scold us always, while Astrid would punish us by making us kneel on the floor for a day! We always complain, like children, but the elders always sided Astrid, saying how unrestraint and impetuous we are.

Sollel’s smile widened. “Ah, Astrid… She has always been strict and very decisive.”

“She sounds like a strong queen, teacher.”

Sollel nodded. “She is. In terms of sword skills, she was on par with Gatria, but she was faster. And me and Aenwyn, we’re not that good, even if try. I mean, I tried wielding a sword, and somehow I learned, but I’m still not skilled compare to Gatria and Astrid.”

“But Your Highness,” it was Grath who interjected after listening to Sollel and Zassia spoke. “You are amazing with a sword. I only saw a fraction of it earlier and I’ll say that you are good.”

“It’s just the basics, Grath,” said Sollel before she proudly added, “you should see Gatria and Astrid’s sword’s skill. They’re magnificent.” Then Sollel looked down at the ground. “As for me, I only learn to wield a sword to control my flame as per the elders request because they say my fame was too destructive that it always made Azitera shook when I’m using my full strength.”

“Eh…?” Zassia was shocked because in the stories, the queen and her sword always go together. And shaking Azitera just because the queen used her power was new to Zassia.

While Grath blinked at that information, dumbfounded that a being could shake Azitera.

But the most shock of the three was Hakken— the warrior who lost to the Mistress of Flame’s sword’s skill.

“How do you control your power through wielding a sword, teacher?” Zassia asked again. Curious and ready to learn new information.

“Through feeding my sword with my flame,” Sollel answered. “But I lost the sword that was specially made for me after the humans sieged Yther.” Sollel sighed, “Oh, well, I believed it’s in good hands. And I think it’s for the best that I lost it. I’m not planning to hold back. My power now is only half of what I used to have, once I’m fully recovered, I won’t mind shaking Azitera to bring those humans to their knees. My revenge is just starting.”

Zassia gulped, feeling the air around the queen, as if her anger was manifesting, so Zassia tried changing the topic. “Does Queen Aenwyn use sword too? I bet she’s also powerful.”

Zassia was relieved when the hot air around the queen disappeared, and her voice became lively again. “Aenwyn? No. She hates swords. Thought she uses chains as her physical weapon. And you don’t want to be hit by her chains, it would feel like a large wave slammed at you. I would know because I used to get hit by her chains when I’m fighting her with my sword since I’m not allowed to use my full flame.”

Zassia was always curious and had so many questions. “Have you ever fought with Queen Aenwyn with full power?”

“Yes, I did.” Sollel grinned at the memory. “But no one was declared a winner because we nearly cause a calamity in Azitera, and Astrid punished us by kneeling on the floor for a month! It was tiring.”

Hakken smiled at that story. He heard about it. It was one of the reasons why the Sappher decided to wage war against the Yther Queens, because the Sappher thinks that the queens were a danger to Azitera because of the ‘calamity’ they nearly caused.

“Ah, I miss them…” Sollel sighed with longing. “We were like sisters even though we were raised from different temples. We all became a Krahika of our respected temples at the same time before we became Krahika of Yther. We argue a lot, we don’t get along sometimes, we have different opinions and decisions, but at the end of the day, we always protect each other’s back. Gatria, Aenwyn, Astrid… I will see you soon and we will raze hell in Azitera and make them pay, together.”

There was a promise in the queen’s voice that made the three behind her felt the chill.

This was not a rescue mission, this was revenge at its finest. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 56

CHAPTER 56

THE AQUATIC BEAST territory was massive. The different body of waters and its beasts’ inhabitants that Sollel could see from the gryphon’s back made her feel thankful that she was riding on Nessus back because if they crossed the aquatic beast territory by foot, Sollel didn’t know if she would remain calm on their journey.

“You’re such a very useful companion, Nessus.” Sollel complimented the gryphon while caressing its feathers making Nessus purr while flying. “You like me more, right? Then why don’t you become my companion? I will bless you with my flame, so you’ll be known as a flaming gryphon. Do you like that?”

Nessus jumped in the air while flying to show his excitement and Hakken who was listening and watching the interaction just sighed, knowing his partner had become smitten. Gryphons were rare creatures that chooses their master through strength, and it looks like Nessus was drawn to his lady’s strength which was understandable, really.

My lady is formidable after all, Hakken thought while watching his lady petting Nessus.

“Look, teacher, we’re near the border,” Zassia pointed the forest covered in mist on top that no flying creature could get through. “In a few hours, we’ll reach that forest, and we’ll finally walk.” Zassia was excited since she hated height.

While Sollel was not feeling happy. She would love to keep riding on Nessus back, but seeing the dark mist above the forest, she knew they had to walk, or Nessus will be in trouble. And Nessus had been flying for the whole day, carrying four people. It needed rest.

Hakken’s gryphon was a fast flyer, they reached the aquatic beasts’ border in no time.

Jumping from Nessus back down to the muddy ground, Sollel sighed heavily and caressed Nessus beak affectionately. “You rest well, okay, Nessus? I’ll see you soon.”

Nessus rubbed his beak against Sollel’s face, making Sollel smile and chuckle. The gryphon was so adorable that she felt a little lonely seeing it entering the enchanted animal bead to rest.

Setting aside the little loneliness she felt, Sollel looked at the forest in front of them. Unlike the other part of desolate land, this was full of life. It had colorful trees and glowing, beautiful flowers and it was beautiful, until Zassia hit them with ugly truth.

“We have to be careful,” said Zassia while everyone was gazing at the forest. “The brighter the trees and flowers are, the poisonous they are.”

The three sighed at what they heard and Grath pointed out the obvious.

“Every tree and flowers and are bright and glowing, Lady Zassia.”

Zassia nodded. “It means very poisonous.”

“It’s a plant,” Sollel summoned a flame in her hand. “Unlike those aquatic beasts, it’ll burn.”

“Yes.” Zassia agreed and the three were back to being happy when Zassia added a caveat. “When these trees and flowers die by flame, they’ll explode and create a toxic gas that could kill in an instant once inhaled.”

Sollel willed her flame to disappear. “In short, my flame is useless in this forest.”

Zassia nodded at Sollel. “Yes, teacher. Grath could use his claws, but not his flame claws to kill any human devouring plant. And Lord Hakken could use his war blades to secure our path. The only good thing about this forest even though it’s long, it’s not that wide. We can cross it in a day.”

The three looked at Zassia who was explaining in full details what they should do, then the three shared a look.

“Zassia,” it was Sollel and when Zassia heard her name being called by her teacher, she immediately gave her whole attention to Sollel.

“Yes, teacher?”

“You do realize you’re the only human in our group,” Sollel glanced at the forest. “That means the human eating plants will only want to eat you and not us.”

Hakken nodded to help his lady teased Zassia. “True.”

Even Grath joined in. “You’re the delicacy in this group, lady Zassia.”

Zassia glared at Hakken and Grath and pouted at her teacher. “How mean. It may be called human eating plant, but it eats any race. The plants here are not choosy and prejudice. They like to eat everyone!”

The three chuckled at Zassia and Sollel poked Zassia’s cheek. “Don’t worry, my little student. We were just teasing you. I won’t let anything bad happen to you.”

Zassia immediately felt better and beamed at the queen. “Thank you, teacher!”

Grath, and Hakken shook their heads seeing the sudden change of expression on Zassia’s face just because of Sollel’s simple words. Zassia had been praying to Sollel ever since she was little so for her, those simple words were literally a godsend.

After teasing Zassia for a little while, the group finally decided to enter the forest. No need for a torch or flame to light their path because of the glowing trees and flowers. Hakken was on the front with his war blades, followed by Sollel, then Zassia and Grath took the rare. No one said a word after they entered the eerie forest. Sollel called in eerie in her mind because the forest was filled with trees and flowers, but no sound of insect could be heard.

The whole forest was dead silence. No movement. And as they go deeper, the flowers were also getting bigger and bigger.

And after a few hours of walking, Sollel kept seeing the same tree over and over again, so she grabbed Hakken’s arm, and she whispered in his ear to not make a sound. “Do you know the way? We’re not lost, are we?”

Hakken sighed. “Unlike the two valleys, the Desolate Valley is the valley that I’m not fully familiar with. I’m sorry, my lady. I’m not much of a help this time.”

Seeing Hakken bothered, Sollel sighed and poked his cheek. “It’s okay. We’ll find another way.” Saying that, she pulled Hakken to stop and silently motion to Zassia and Grath to come closer.

When they were all huddled together, Sollel whispered. “We’re lost,” she glanced at Zassia, “anything in that brain of yours, little Zassia?”

Zassia’s forehead furrowed as she thinks deeply, then a moment later, her face brightened, and she whispered to everyone. “I don’t know if this can help, but according to some books I read, you’ll know if you’re close to the land beast’s territory because the flowers are bigger. I don’t know how big, but it was said that those big and tall flowers were the reason for the mist above the forest that’s almost reaching the clouds. And also,” Zassia immediately added. “There’s supposedly a big tree, like humongous, in the center of this forest— it’s called the Sangue tree— and it should be avoided because its nourishment is blood of anyone who dared trespass this valley. It is said that its roots were spread widely and deeply in this valley that it could feel when someone is walking on the ground.”

Everyone looked at the ground.

“And?” Grath asked for more information. “Is there anything in that book that says how to kill it? Just in case?”

Zassia shook her head. “It didn’t say. All it says is that it’ll use its roots to stab you and drained your blood.” Zassia’s habit of explaining horrible monsters and things while smiling happily was at it again.

Hakken stood up straight and looked around for giant flowers, while Sollel was looking at the ground for roots.

“We’re still far away,” Hakken whispered and pointed the biggest flower that could be seen.

While Sollel pointed a large glowing root from the ground and whispered. “Let’s avoid that.”

Everyone nodded and they continued walking again. Now that they had additional information, they didn’t get lost like earlier. When they were not sure of their way, they would only look for the biggest flower and follow its direction.

But maybe they were not cautious enough, or they were tricked somehow, because the tree that they were trying so hard to avoid, entered their line of sight. And everyone felt the chill when they saw it. Even Sollel, though the chill she felt was because of how eerie it looked.

The tree trunk had people’s faces. It was huge with no leaves, just branches and limbs. It looked like a dead tree, but the faint red glow on it made it look alive. And it was surrounded by a deep bubbling red pool, and it reeks of the spoiled smell of blood.

Sollel’s group just stared at it in astonishment with a hint of nervousness. No one dared move, a little afraid that a single movement could make the tree attack them.

Sollel who hated running away from enemies, stared at the tree intently as if she was burning holes in it.

It was a tree. Easy to burn. But is it? Even back then when Yther was still prominent, Gatria would always advise them not to go to these valleys. Said it was dangerous and that all she could do was trapped the creatures inside these valleys so they couldn’t leave and harm anyone.

Sollel cursed herself for not asking Gatria what she did. At that time, she really didn’t care about anything. She spent most of her time in the Dwarven Kingdom, learning how to make weapons that could help humans who was not given an elemental essence to protect themselves. I was so invested in it that I didn’t care about anything. She was too focused on helping humans that she didn’t realize that the help she was giving them would be used against them.

And thinking about it made her blood boil with anger that she had to calm her blood of flame.

“My lady—”

“Let’s find another path.” Said Sollel but before she could take a step, the tree’s roots started wiggling as if coming alive to stop them. “Great. It’s awake.”

Everyone went into a fighting stance, but Sollel. All her life, she had met a fair share of powerful individuals and creatures and this ‘thing’ in front of her is definitely a powerful one. Still, it was not enough to intimidate her.

Before it could even move its roots to attack, Sollel summoned three gigantic flaming swords, all were aimed at the tree, then Sollel spoke as if the tree understood. “I may not be able to kill you with these before you suck us dry, but I’m sure the damage will be severe. So… Why don’t you stand down and let us through? Win-win, don’t you think?”

Sollel’s companion was astonished when the roots stopped moving as if agreeing to Sollel. Then a path opened for them. But even so, Sollel didn’t let the gigantic flaming sword disappear.

“For insurance,” Sollel told the tree before they took the path and left.

Sollel made sure that they were far enough before she withdraws her gigantic flaming sword and release a heavy sighed. “Damn, that tree was huge.”

“It actually stopped…” Zassia muttered under her breath before she looked at Sollel. “You’re really amazing, teacher!”

“Not really,” Sollel confessed. “I was actually just trying my luck if it’s afraid of flame since I’m the nemeses of any vegetation. Looks like I’m lucky.”

“No wonder no aquatic nor land beasts crossed this territory to invade one another,” said Grath after a little while. “It’s dangerous. That tree alone will devour them.”

Zassia nodded. “Yes. I think that’s the reason too.”

“Let’s keep moving,” Hakken said and took the front again.

While Sollel, Zassia and Grath resumed their position from earlier. And as they continue their journey, they came across many plants— plants that tried to devour them. Thankfully, Hakken and Grath were strong. The plants weren’t able to prey on them. But as a result of that, they attracted some plants’ attention that from carefully walking, now they were running.

“This way!” Hakken bellowed when he spotted the largest and tallest plant. “Move! Hurry!”

“Grath! Carry Zassia!” Sollel ordered and she asked Hakken to give her a war blade. “I promise I won’t melt or lose it.”

Hakken sighed and gave in. He gave one war blade to Sollel from his arsenal and slashed ‘beheaded’ the flower that was about to bite Zassia’s head off.

With now a war blade in her hand, Sollel took the rear and helped Hakken slashed stems to clear their path and slay flowers that elongated their stem to reach them and hoist them up so they could devour them.

Sollel honestly didn’t know what she was doing anymore, if she was hitting or slashing something with her war blade at how many flowers were trying to block their way and eat them, but she continued slashing, moving her arms and the war blades in her hand, Sollel made sure to guard the rear while Hakken was securing the front.

Alas, after hours of running away from the human devouring plants, they could finally see a light up ahead.

Hakken, Sollel and Grath with Zassia on his back sprinted like mad. They didn’t turn back, their eyes focused on the light and when their foot finally stepped out from the forest, the relief they felt while breathing rapidly was palpable, except for Zassia who only looked so pale.

“I was nearly hoist away,” Zassia muttered as she gets off from Grath’s back. “Good thing Grath was holding me right.”

Grath chuckled at Zassia. “I told you’re the delicacy.”

Zassia pouted and Sollel messed Zassia’s hair. “Thank Grath, little Zassia—” Sollel didn’t finish her words when she saw Hakken wrapping a cloth around his arm where there a long wound.

Sollel immediately went to Hakken and checked his wound. “What happened?”

Hakken sighed. “A flower nearly got my arm.”

Seeing the wound, Zassia commented. “It’s poisoned. It had no cure.”

Hearing that, a lava-like liquid swirled in Sollel’s eyes, and her body emitted a scorching heat as her eyes narrowed on the forest. With furious glare, blood boiling in anger and gritted teeth, Sollel raised her arm and from where everyone was standing, they saw four gigantic flaming swords appeared above the forest and fell, shaking the land. Followed by balls of flames raining from the sky. And in more than ten heartbeats, the forest was engulfed in hellish flame together with a toxic gas that the flowers released after being killed by fire.

And as the flame spread, so did the toxic gas. Even if the kingdom and empire’s people saw Sollel’s flame, they wouldn’t be able to follow.

“Let’s get out of here,” Sollel grabbed the cloth Hakken was holding, and she hurriedly but carefully wrapped it around his wound. “We have to reach Gatria before your wound start to fester. She can heal anything. She can heal you.”

Hakken who was still stunned at his lady’s burst of anger just because he was wounded just nodded his head.

“What’s the fastest way to reach the Hallowed Valley?” Sollel asked Hakken.

“With Nessus,” Hakken answered, “but we’ll have to deal with other flying monsters, and we can’t take any covers. We’ll stand out too much. It’ll be risky and dangerous. Unlike if we traverse by land, we have ways to avoid danger.”

“But your wound—”

“I’ll be fine, my lady.”

Sollel pressed her lips together before she took a deep breath as if calming her nerves. “Fine. We’ll walk.”

Though Sollel was against it because she wanted to reach Gatria fast, she was still a bit thankful that they’re walking because they found a stream with clean water and Sollel couldn’t wait clean herself and bath together with Hakken. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 57

CHAPTER 57

“HAKKEN, come here.” Sollel motioned Hakken— who was guarding his lady with his back on her— to join her in the stream to clean themselves. “Let me see your wound again. I’ll clean it. We have to make sure that it won’t fester.”

“No, my lady—”

“Hakken,” Sollel’s voice became strict and firm. “Come. Here.”

Hakken couldn’t decline his lady’s strict voice that he turned around and face his lady in the stream. Hakken gulped twice seeing his lady’s back on him. She was naked, and the water was only reaching her waist. He could see a flame shape on her back, like a birthmark or something similar.

And looking at it, his lady looked so sexy that he couldn’t move for a second.

“Hakken, come here, please…”

Hakken, who didn’t like to see his lady plead, followed his lady’s order and went to the stream with her. His lady was naked while he was fully clothed, minus his bag and weapons.

Sollel submerged her body in the stream, making sure that the water will cover her chest before facing Hakken. And Sollel could only sigh when she saw Hakken.

“Really, Hakken?”

Hakken couldn’t look straight at his lady because if he did, he’ll see her chest that was barely being hidden by the water. “Um… This is fine, my lady.”

Sollel clicked her tongue. “Take off your clothes and I’ll dry them later for you.”

His lady’s sounded as if she’ll burn his clothes if he didn’t take it off, so he did. In the stream. Then he washed it and put it on the large stone near him.

Hakken honestly didn’t know what to do— no, he did know what to do— but he was stopping himself from doing it because they were both naked and his lady might not like it.

“Come closer.” Sollel ordered Hakken again.

Controlling his breathing, he moved closer to his lady until they were only inches apart— too close that he could feel the warm water around his lady. But all the naughty thoughts in his head disappeared when he saw how his lady held his arm and cleaned his wound, as if she was afraid to hurt him.

The expression on Hakken’s face softened as he watched his lady took care of him. It felt nice to be taken care of by his beloved queen. Hakken felt really lucky.

Being with his lady and traveling with him was already lucky, but to be this close to her… To be able to hug her and kissed her, he was a blessed man indeed. Everything he did, every struggle he overcomes and every pain he endured all those years were worth it.

His beloved queen was worth it.

“It’s starting to fester,” Sollel who was oblivious to Hakken’s thought sighed heavily. “Are you hurting right now?”

“It’s not so bad.”

Up close, Hakken saw how the lava-like liquid in Sollel’s eyes swirled, as if showing her anger. “Those damn flowers! I should’ve burned all of them!”

Hakken couldn’t help smiling seeing his lady so angry for him again. “You already did, my lady. Some might survive, but I’m very sure you already burned the one who tried to chew my arm.”

Sollel clicked her tongue again before she went back to carefully clean Hakken’s wound. She only stopped when she felt Hakken’s lips on her temple.

“I’ll be fine, my lady. Stop worrying.” Hakken was trying to cheer his lady. “Dying doesn’t really matter to a descendant of Sappher. I can always come back.”

Sollel sighed and glared at Hakken. “I told you that once you’re mine, you can beg, shout and scream, but I am not letting you go. That means I’m not letting you die even if you want to. I am not going to wait for you to reincarnate and reach a mature age to see you again. I am not as patient as you! We still have lots of things to so, Hakken! And you are not going to die on me, understand?!”

Hakken blinked at his lady before a smile appeared on his lips. “Yes, my lady. All yours.”

Somehow, Sollel felt relieved, but still worried. “We have to reach Gatria fast. She can heal you for sure.”

But she’ll be weak once we reached her. Hakken thought, but he didn’t voice it put. He didn’t want to see his lady so worried.

“My lady?”

Sollel raised her head and stared straight into Hakken’s eyes. “Hmm?”

To answer Sollel’s ‘hmm’, Hakken dipped his head and placed a soft kiss on Sollel’s lips. It was soft, yet firm and unwavering. It lasted for a few seconds before Sollel’s hand wrapped around Hakken’s neck and Hakken’s arm wrapped around Sollel’s waist.

Hakken hoisted his lady up, her breast pressing against his chest, making him groan inside his lady’s mouth as their lips moved to taste and explore each other. This time, Hakken was not satisfied with just exploring his lady’s mouth, his lips started traveling down, from her lips, to her chin, down to her neck.

Soft murmurs of moans escaped Sollel’s lips as she felt Hakken’s lips trailing down her neck. She knew they were getting carried away by the kiss and the moment and being alone, but Sollel didn’t really care. She wanted to let this man who loves her dearly, and patiently waited for her to be happy and she knew without being conceited that she was one of his happiness.

So, instead of pushing Hakken away to give their body space, Sollel cradled Hakken’s head and pushed it down to her chest.

A moan Sollel couldn’t contain escaped her lips and her body arched when she felt Hakken’s tongue around her areola and lapping her nipple.

Sollel’s body was on fire that she couldn’t control her blood of flame, it started making the water around her boil.

Sollel wanted to ask for more when she felt Hakken’s tongue left her nipples and his mouth kissed her ear before he whispered.

“If you continued making the water boil, you’re going to cook me to death, my lady.”

Those words made Sollel snapped out of her arousal and she looked around. Indeed, the water around them was boiling and if she didn’t stop it, it’ll hurt Hakken.

Taking deep breaths, Sollel breathe in and out deeply until her blood flame calmed down and the water went back to the way it was earlier— warm.

And feeling the water getting back to normal, Hakken dipped his head again and put his lady whole areola and nipple in her mouth.

Another moan escaped Sollel’s lips and unbeknownst to her, her arousal was boiling the water around her again, making Hakken stopped and just kissed Sollel’s lips until the water returned back to normal.

“Why’d you stop?” Sollel shamelessly wanted more of that pleasure.

“Because you’re going to cook me alive, my lady.” Hakken smiled and placed three sweet kisses on Sollel’s lips. “Though I really wanted taste you so bad, but your skin is literally hot.”

Sollel wanted to scold her blood of flame, but it was only reacting to her emotion and what she was feeling. And her arousal was making it excited, enough to make it burst.

Sollel sighed and rested her forehead on Hakken’s shoulder. She didn’t want this opportunity to slip— an opportunity to make her Hakken happy. His love and loyalty moved her that she was more than willing to give him everything she have.

Why wouldn’t she? She may not know the whole story, she was maybe being kept in the dark, but she knew Hakken was not standing beside her now because of luck. It was because of his loyalty, fidelity, perseverance and sacrifices.

Who wouldn’t want a man like that?

A man who was only loyal to her. A man whose eyes were always trained on her. A man who did everything he could for her. Who wouldn’t treasure a man like that?

A man like that deserves everything she could offer and more.

He deserved her affection, her attention, her heart, her body, even her soul.

Sollel breathe out softly and whispered over Hakken’s ear. “You don’t have a blood of flame, if I touched you, it’ll be fine, right?”

Hakken was speechless and became even more so, as if he had lost his ability to speak when he felt his lady’s hand caressing his abdomen.

“Our elders,” Sollel positioned her lips over Hakken’s ear and whispered lustrously. “They taught us a lot of things about copulation and procreating so we could produce an excellent heir or heiress someday. Unfortunately,” Sollel’s hand travelled down to Hakken’s bare and ripped thighs, “it was not put into used because there was no man worthy in my eyes. Every male who tried to woo me was weak, useless and treacherous.

“I thought I would not find a worthy man. A man who I can be proud of. A man who I want to stay by my side. A man whom I want to own. Then… I met you.”

Sollel licked Hakken’s ear as her hand slowly inched closer to his raging member.

“I should offer a thanks to the deities for finally meeting the man worthy of my hand’s attention and affection.” With that, Sollel’s hand finally cupped Hakken’s length and Hakken felt like his head spun. “You should offer your thanks too.”

“Yes…” Hakken was breathing heavily, nearly panting as her hand continued caressing him.

A soft caress. An affectionate touch. With a firm grip and hold as she moved her hand to a rhythm she made in her head. A rhythm that was making Hakken pant and his whole face was exporting an arousal Sollel hadn’t seen before.

“You’re very handsome, my lord.” Sollel whispered before she pressed her lips against Hakken’s and her hand continued to move and deliver pleasure.

Hakken didn’t want to, but his release was coming fast. He was holding it in, stopping himself, but his lady was merciless — her hand in particular.

Upon his release, Hakken buried his face in his lady’s neck, still breathing hard and panting.

“Why… Why did you do that?” Hakken couldn’t help asking when his mind became clear again. “I know your ‘like’ is not similar to mine, so I’m confused, my lady. To be this intimate with me… Please don’t tease me too much. I might crumble and perish if you get tired of me and cast me away after your curiosity fades away.”

“You’re always so silly, Hakken.” Sollel cupped Hakken’s face and she stared deep into his eyes. “I admit, our ‘like’ is very different. It started differently too.  But don’t belittle my affection just because it didn’t transcend time and death like yours. You’re the only man whom I accepted in my life, Hakken. The only man I wanted to kiss and touch and tease. The only man who can make me worry so much. The only man who I wanted to be intimate with to.

“If you think that my affection for you is shallow just because I only felt it recently, then you have to stay with me, Hakken. I will show you how deep I feel for you. I may not be able to make up for the three lifetimes I missed, but I can show you how much you mean to me for three lifetimes and more. I’m from a long-live race. I have all the time in the world to show you and prove to you that my feelings are real and will not waver.”

Hakken was overwhelmed that all he could say was, “My lady…”

Sollel placed a kiss on Hakken’s lips and when she pulled away, she looked at Hakken, her face serious. “We still have a lot of things to do, Hakken. So you better not die on me.”

Hakken nodded and smiled. “For my lady, I’ll live.”

“Good.” Sollel finally smiled and turned her attention on her and Hakken’s cleaned and wet clothes on top of the stone.

Using her flame essence, she dried it before she returned to bathing. Hakken also took a bath and cleaned himself, well, only after his hands had enough cleaning his lady who let him roam his hands on her body freely. 

♕♕♕

NOW CLEANED AND FRESH, Hakken and Sollel went back to their campsite and let Zassia and then Grath took turns bathing. While waiting for the two, Hakken and Sollel were sitting side by side, Sollel’s head was on Hakken’s shoulder, resting.

“Hakken…?”

“Yes, my lady?”

“Could you tell me when were you first born?” Sollel was curious since Saphhers had the arcane ritual of rebirth.

“I’m one of the first generations of descendants of Sappher,” Hakken answered. “And I’m the only remaining one who was born from the old time. Most of them already choose eternal death after their beloved past away. They couldn’t bear the pain of losing their love ones.”

That was sweet and sad at the same time. “And you… How did you survive all these years? All these lifetimes?”

“My life became monotonous,” Hakken reached for his lady’s hand to caress her fingers and palm. “So I choose to rest for a while and left an order to my trusted aide to resurrect me only when Azitera has changed. I was resurrected before Sappher decided to wage war on Yther and that’s when I saw you and fell.

Hakken took a deep breath. “My father at that time didn’t take it kindly when he found out so he imprisoned me to keep me away. When I learned about what happened to Yther, it was already too late. When I went to your kingdom and heard of your death, that’s when I understood the gravity of my feelings for you because I couldn’t bear it. At that time, I finally understood why most descendant of Sappher chose eternal death when their beloved dies. It was excruciating.”

Sollel watched as emotion played on Hakken’s face as if he was reminiscing what happened. “Hakken…”

“Though unlike other descendant of Sapphers, I didn’t give up,” Hakken continued. “I scoured the land, looking for you. If you’re really dead like they said, then I want to see your body… Your grave… Anything to prove that you really are dead. But nothing… Then I heard rumors from the elves that the queens of Yther are still alive, bur imprisoned. I heard from other races who hated what humans did, but couldn’t fight because they lack in numbers and they’ll be annihilated. I went to talk to them and when I was sure that you’re still alive, the happiness I felt was surreal.

“You don’t even know me, but I was happy to know that you’re still in Azitera. That I can still see you even if I was just far away. When I went to Ashmire, I only wanted to look out for you as you travel. I wanted to just watch you from afar, but… You choose me to be your hunter. Me.” Hakken smiled so affectionately that it made Sollel’s heartbeat quickened.

“You caught my attention,” Sollel’s confessed. She liked seeing happiness in Hakken’s face. “You were very handsome and imposing and just, I don’t know, dependable looking.”

Hakken’s smile widened. “Handsome?”

Sollel nodded and admitted. “I like your face very much.”

Hakken chuckled at that. “Just my face?”

“Body too.” Sollel admitted. “And your fighting prowess. And more that I don’t want to say because your head might grow big.”

Hakken laughed before he looked earnestly at Sollel. “My lady, we, the descendants of Sappher only falls in love once in all our lifetimes. Even if I die, after my resurrection, I will still love you just the same. When I told you that I’m yours, I meant it. Because there is no me, if there was no you. So between us, it should be you who should be more careful because if you die, I will die with you. I would rather choose eternal death, than to live a life without you in it.”

Sollel felt every word that came out from Hakken’s mouth that a lone tear fell from her eyes. “You’re not going to die. I will not let you. After Gatria healed you, I will find a way to bind your life force to mine, so you’ll live longer like me. Aenwyn knows something about it so we have to get her out of her prison fast.”

Hearing his lady planned for their future, hearing that he was part of her plan moving forward, an overwhelming emotion took him over and a tear fell from his eyes, a tear that his lady softly wiped away.

“Don’t die on me, Hakken.” Sollel said, this time it was not an order, more like a plea. “Promise me that.”

Hakken didn’t, rather, he stayed silent.

Sollel blows a loud breath. “It’s just poison, Gatria will heal it. So you have to hold out and endure. Do it for me, Hakken. Because if you died and leave me, even if you resurrected, I will not forgive you. You are not leaving me. I don’t care if you’ll still love me the same after rebirth. I want the Hakken now. I want you. So dying is not an option, you understand?”

Hakken nodded, smiling at his lady. “Sollel…”

Hearing her name from Hakken’s lips surprised Sollel a little before she answered. “Yes?”

“Thank you for completing me.”

Sollel had always been a strong, independent woman. She was feared by many men, intimidated by her strength. Only Hakken dared to teased her, sweet talk her, hold her, kissed her, touch her and love her for who she was. 

And Sollel couldn’t help becoming enamored by him. Who wouldn’t be, really?  Hakken was just so adorable.

“Hakken?”

“Yes, my lady?”

“I wonder if you still haven’t changed your mind.”

“About what?”

“About marrying me…” Sollel smiled when she saw how Hakken froze, as if he had turned into a stone. “You still want to marry me, right?”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 58

CHAPTER 58

CIRA WAS FUMING MAD when Xeke returned. Her bow and arrow was ready, but Xeke brought good news and she couldn’t shoot him even after he stole a kiss from her!

“Don’t you dare do it again!” Cira hissed at Xeke. “Ask first you bastard! Don’t you dare! My lips are very precious!”

A fussing Cira looked so adorable in Xeke’s eyes that even though he was being cussed at, he was still smiling. “Yes. I’ll ask first.”

“Good—”

“Cira?”

“What?!”

“Can I kiss you?”

“Of course, not!” Cira snapped and started walking, then she heard Xeke’s voice with a hint of laughter.

“Cira, you’re going to the wrong way.” Said Xeke who was stopping himself from laughing.

“Piss off!”

Xeke chuckled before he held Cira’s hand. He didn’t let it go even when Cira bit his hand.

“I have to hold your hand, Cira.” Xeke reasoned with his elf. “You might get lost again.

Grumbling to herself, Cira finally let Xeke hold her hand as he guided her towards the right direction.

Walking in the sacred forest, holding hands, Cira kept grumbling.

“You know, Xeke, we can travel faster if you let me go and lead the way through teleportation like you usually do.”

“Hmm… You’re right.” Xeke agreed and then he suddenly just picked up Cira and run.

“Xeke!” Cira bellowed, but Xeke just pretended that he didn’t hear it. He continued running with Cira on his arms until a group of elven warriors blocked their way.

And elven warriors meant they’re on the right path.

Cira immediately jumped down from Xeke’s arms and draw her bow and arrow against the elven warriors. Cira was ready to go to war just to enter the sacred forest when Xeke spoke.

“It’s okay, Cira. I spoke to them.” He said. “They won’t do anything to you.”

Cira turned to Xeke, frowning and confused. “Why? I’m pretty sure they all want to throw me out for breaking their sacred law.”

Xeke took a deep breath and answer Cira in the most simplest way. “Warlord Hakkeran Adral.”

Hearing that name, Cira clicked her tongue at Xeke. “Please don’t tell me you’re working for him.” Cira clicked her tongue in annoyance again. “Of course, you’re working for him. Everyone is working for him! Is that the real reason why you accompanied me, you annoying theft warlord?”

“I don’t work for him, Cira.” Xeke explained calmly. “We’re friend and I’m just helping around. And you know why I accompanied you, Cira. Do I have to say it again? I don’t mind.”

Cira glanced at the elven warriors in front of them and she glared at Xeke. “Don’t you dare say it. Don’t be shameless in front of them! Have some decency, Xeke!”

Xeke chuckled and bowed his head a little to humor his adorable elf. “After you, my lady Cira.”

Cira glared at Xeke again and with her head held high, she walked straight towards the royal castle of the elven kingdom while Xeke was behind her, as if escorting and guarding her.

Everyone Cira passed gasp and murmurs after seeing her. Cira didn’t mind though, it had been a long time since she’d been kicked out. She didn’t care what they say about her.

She’s here for one reason only. And that’s to help her queen fight the moonrite stone effect.

Without asking for permission and without receiving any grant of approval to have an audience with the King, Cira just barged into the throne room together with Xeke who was still standing guard, and the two only stopped when they were already in front of the Elven King sitting on the throne.

“Such insolence…” the princess beside the King muttered, but Cira heard it.

“Silence, Cora!” Cira throw the princess a sharp glare. “A brainless princess like you should shut up.”

“You…!”

Cira didn’t pay attention to Princess Cora and looked at the king. “I’m here to use the Elven elders’ essence and insight to analyze a stone. I’m here under Warlord Hakkeran, so the word ‘please’ is not needed, is it?”

The King took a deep breath and sighed before he answered Cira. “Ciradyl, you’re not even going to greet your father ‘hello’?”

Cira grimaced. “The moment you kicked me out and stripped me of my title, you made it clear that you’re not my father anymore. I’m here under Warlord Hakkeran, not for personal reason. Ate you going to lend the Elven elders or not?”

The Elven King sighed. “Why are you even asking me, Ciradyl, when you know I am in no position to say no to that Warlord?”

Cira smiled. “Good. I want the Elven elders now. I’m in a hurry.”

“For the Mistress of Flame?” The king asked and when he saw the surprise on Cira’s face, he added. “We hear things. So, Queen Sollel is back.”

“Yes.” Cira answered proudly. “And she will burn anyone who’ll stand in her way.” Cira turned her back on the throne. “Tell the Elven elders to meet me in the Sacred tree. The faster they come, the faster I will be out of your hairs.”

Xeke followed Cira as she walked out of the throne room and when they were finally out, Cira stop to take a deep breath as if she was suffocated inside.

“Should I start calling you Princess Cira?”

Cira glared at Xeke. “Try and die.”

Xeke chuckled and stood beside Cira. “You were amazing back there. I fell for you again, lady Cira. What am I going to do?”

“I don’t care, you theft!”

Xeke chuckled again and hold Cira’s hand. “You might get lost again. Let’s go.”

Cira had no sense of direction, but she knew she could find the sacred tree without anyone’s help. She could even see it from where she was standing. So she didn’t know why she let Xeke held her hand without complaints.

Maybe because Xeke’s hand feels nice? Yes. That’s probably it. Xeke had a nice hand and she liked it.

♕♕♕

SHE REMEMBERED . Those were Hakken thoughts when his lady asked him if he still haven’t changed his mind about marrying her. He was too stunned to speak and answer, but his lady just laughed heartily and she turned her attention to Zassia who just finished bathing.

As the two conversed, Hakken still couldn’t believe what he just heard. His lady remembered him. He thought that it was insignificant to her, but she really remembered.

Hakken wanted to speak to Sollel, to be alone with her again, to explain himself, but he didn’t get the chance.

In no time, they were back to cross the desolate land valley. And because of his festering wound, he could only wield one blade and it was not enough to fight the monsters attacking them.

But Hakken needn’t worry, Sollel’s flaming bow was fierce and it pierces the monster’s skin easily, burning them from the inside. Even though it was dangerous because of the beasts constantly trying to prey on them, Zassia and Sollel were more than enough to defend the whole group while Grath was looking out for Hakken who couldn’t fight with his full strength.

Though they were lucky that they didn’t encounter packs and hoards of monsters. Oh, they did, but Sollel let it rain flame and the monsters fled away, afraid to be burnt alive.

Sollel already had one-half of her strength back, even with only that, she was already a force to be reckoned with. But she knew it was still not enough to save Gatria. She needed her companions to save Gatria because the whole prison would surely be overflowing with moonrite stone.

When they reached the Hallowed Valley, she would not be an asset, but a liability to her group.

Three days of fighting monsters in the land beast’s territory, Sollel, Hakken, Grath, and Zassia finally reached the edge of the Desolate land Valley.

After finally crossing the Desolate land Valley, Hakken called Nessus and they all rode him to see and observe the whole Hallowed Valley from above so they could formulate a plan.

And finally seeing the Hallowed Valley, Sollel knew that Gatria was there. The whole valley was barren, no vegetation could be seen. And after miles and miles of barren land, in the center of the Hallowed Valley was a big canyon.

“I think she’s in there.” Zassia said and pointed the center of the canyon. “That’s the only place that has structure in the whole valley.”

Sollel agreed with Zassia.

“Nessus, bring us down.” Hakken ordered his gryphon. “We will be seen by wind sorcerers if we continued flying forward.”

Nessus immediately flew them down and returned to the bead after rubbing his beak against Sollel’s hand.

“We’re still hundreds of miles away,” Grath commented while facing the canyon in the center of the valley.

“This is safer,” said Hakken.

“I have a plan.” Sollel spoke and everyone looked at her and listened. “I, um,” Sollel didn’t want to speak of it, but as she travelled with her companions, she began to trust again. Not only Cira and Hakken, but also Zassia and Grath, and it may be hard for her to share it, her companions needed to know for her plan to work.

Sollel cleared her throat and muster all the courage she had. “I have a weakness,” she started and Zassia and Grath immediately became worried and Hakken gritted his teeth. “And this weakness, the humans knew about it. That’s how Yther’s Kingdom fell. And,” Sollel glanced at the canyon hundreds of miles away from them. “I’m sure Gatria’s prison is filled with them. This stone weakens us and drain our essence. So, I can enter the prison with you. My plan is to stay outside and caused commotion as you enter the prison and save Gatria.”

Sollel looked at Hakken, as if asking for his opinion, but he didn’t say anything and just nodded, as if he was giving him her consent to do what he wanted and he will support her all the way.

That made Sollel smile. “I will enter the canyon through their entrance while you three will circle back and look for a way in while I distract them. Their attention will be focused on me, so that will give you an ample time to save Gatria. Of course, for that to happen, we have to part ways here and go to the canyon separately. We shouldn’t all be seen together.”

“And this stone…” Zassia bit her lower lip in worry. “You said it weakens you, I’m sure they will have that while fighting you, teacher.”

Sollel patted Zassia’s head to calm her down. “Don’t worry. I have my cloak. Somehow, it absorbs the effect of the stone on me, but I don’t know how long will this cloak last, so you three have to move fast and get Gatria out of her.”

The plan was not sitting well with Grath, but he knew it was the best plan they had after learning of their queen’s weakness. “And after we save Queen Gatria, where will we go, Your Highness? Where will we meet afterwards?”

Sollel had a plan to make sure that she wouldn’t be imprisoned again so her reply was immediate. “Go to the Dwarven Kingdom. Tell their King that Queen Sollel sent you, and that they should give their all to protect Queen Gatria until I arrived.”

Everyone nodded, but Sollel could tell that Hakken was just forcing himself to go along with her plan.

Seeing the queen glancing at Hakken as if wanting to speak to him, Grath signaled Zassia to give the two some privacy before their plan commenced. Fortunately, Zassia immediately understood and the two went behind a large dead tree to give Sollel and Hakken some privacy.

When Zassia and Grath went to rest on the tree, Sollel walked towards Hakken.

“Something bothering you?”

Hakken shook his head.

“Are you sure? You look worried.”

Hakken finally gave in and exhaled. “You will be traversing this barren land alone, of course I’m worried!”

“I’m hearing a ‘but’.”

Hakken sighed heavily. “But… I know I have to let you go alone because we all have our roles to play. A plan is a plan. I won’t let my emotion ruin it.”

Sollel smiled at how Hakken was trying so hard not to stop her. “Keep Gatria safe, Hakken. I will leave her to you.”

Hakken nodded before he stepped closer to Sollel and pressed his lips against her forehead. “Please be careful, my lady. I don’t want to see you get hurt.”

Sollel chuckled. “Hakken, with my kind of plan, I’m going to get hurt for sure. I’m maybe strong, but they have a moonrite stone to weaken me. It’ll be easier if you accept it early on.”

Hakken’s jaw tightened. “I don’t like that.”

“I’ll be fine.” Sollel kissed Hakken on the lips. “The worst thing they could do to me is imprisoned me again. What’s new?”

Hakken’s expression darkened. He didn’t really like the thought of her being imprisoned.

My Hakken is so sweet. Sollel wrapped her arms around Hakken’s waist and hugged him close. “Be careful. And don’t forget to look out for Grath and Zassia. They’re not as experienced as you in battle. They could hold their own, but against large numbers of enemies, they’ll be in trouble.”

Hakken nodded and hugged Sollel back. “Don’t worry about us, worry about yourself.”

“Hmm,” Sollel replied before she placed a  soft kiss on Hakken’s jaw. “You too.”

Silence fell on Hakken and Sollel, as if their conversation had ended, but no one lets go. The two continued hugging each other, but even after a long while, the two didn’t want to part.

But they know they had to.

Pulling away from each other, Sollel and Hakken looked into each other’s eyes and smiled.

“Be careful,” said Sollel as she stepped back.

“Take care,” said Hakken who nearly step forward to hold his lady again.

Turning her back on Hakken, Sollel went to say goodbye to Zassia and Grath. She found the two behind the dead tree. Zassia was practicing her crawling flame— she could not hold it for one full minute— while Grath was using his flame essence to sharpen his claw attacks.

Sollel smiled at that. Her blessing was not for naught. Seeing these two practicing their flame essence and grow makes Sollel felt proud. They’ve come a long way. From meeting, traveling and now, they were risking their lives for her. Sollel felt moved.

She hated humans to the core of her being, but she couldn’t hate Zassia. Her little adorable and smart Zassia.

“Be careful out there, little Zassia.” Sollel said and patted Zassia’s head. “Don’t be careless and if worse came to worst, run and escape. I won’t be mad at you if you saved yourself first. I’ll even commend you.”

Zassia nodded, earnestly listening to Sollel.

Then Sollel turned to Grath. “Grath, take care of Zassia for me. And take care of yourself too. I want you too unharmed when I see you again. That’s an order.”

Grath nodded and bowed his head. “Yes, Your Highness!”

Sollel took a deep breath and glanced at Hakken who was now walking towards them. “We have to move now. Good luck. I will cause as much disturbance as I can to give you time.”

The three nodded simultaneously and with a heavy feeling in their chests, they watched their queen leave. Alone.

Instead of letting his emotion control him, Hakken took a deep breath and face Grath and Zassia. “Let’s go. We have to move as well.”

With one last look towards the direction their queen took, Grath, and Zassia followed Hakken’s lead.

♕♕♕

IT WAS SOLLEL’S FIRST time traveling alone since she met Cira. Walking in this barren land, Sollel was wondering why it was called a Hallowed Valley. Maybe hallowed because it had nothing, but the canyon in the center.

Or maybe it looked different before and it only changed when they imprisoned Gatria here. Gatria’s resentment was so strong that she could even feel it.

She was excited at the same time nervous to see Gatria after so many years. If blame would be thrown around, it’ll be her fault. All hers alone. It was her idea to help the humans. It was her fault alone.

She regretted being drawn to humans. She regretted helping them and she wanted to right her wrong. But first, she had to ask for forgiveness to Gatria, Aenwyn and Astrid. She had to ask for her people’s forgiveness.

She knew she couldn’t bring back what was lost, but she will work hard to protect what was left.

The tears that fell from Sollel’s eyes dried on its own because of her body temperature. She was mad and she was literally boiling inside.

Sollel wrapped her cloak tightly around her and she continued her journey. After recovering half of her strength, her body had become indomitable to fatigue. She could walk for days and be okay, but she still rested. She had to save her strength for the chaos she will make.

Alone and resting, Sollel passed her time by playing with her flame. Her blood of flame created small creatures with two hands and legs and it started dancing.

Sollel laughed alone at how adorable her flame was, but in an instant, she felt saddened. She was already used to laughing with Hakken.

Hakken… Sollel hugged herself and sighed. I want to see Hakken. Or Hakkeran. Anyone.

She hated being alone, even before.

Sollel took a deep breath and rested her chin on her folded knee. Being alone was making her think about things she had been trying to avoid thinking.

“Gatria…” she whispered as her palm rested on the barren land. “I’m sorry I won’t be able to save you personally. I know, I owe you that and more. This only happened because of me. Because I trusted them. It was me who made a bad decision. It was me who damned us all. It was all my fault. But I didn’t mean to, Gatria. I really didn’t mean to cause trouble. You can punish me and I’ll accept. Even if Astrid made me kneel for a century, it wouldn’t be enough to compensate for what I did. I’m sorry that I didn’t listen to you… I’m so sorry, Gatria. I’m so sorry. Please forgive me.”

Sollel’s tears kept falling from her eyes, but before it could drip down, it’ll be dried off because of her body heat. Therefore, it didn’t escape her eyes were a flower just suddenly bloomed beside her palm on the ground.

“Gatria?” Sollel couldn’t help hoping.

This was a barren land! How could a flower just suddenly bloom here?! It had to be Gatria!

“I have companions, Gatria.” Now, Sollel was talking to the flower. “They’re taking a different route. They’re the one who will enter your cell and free you while I distract the enemies. If… If you could guide them with your flower, if you still have the strength, please, it’ll be a big help. And a man named Hakken will save you together with Zassia and Grath. I know I shouldn’t ask, but please, heal Hakken for me. I don’t want to lose him, Gatria. I still have to make up for the three lifetimes I missed. So, I beg you, please heal him. I’ll do anything, just heal his arm. It had been poisoned and it had no cure. But I know you can heal him. Just… Just don’t touch him too much. He’s mine.”

Sollel didn’t know if Gatria heard her because the flower started to wither then it disappeared.

Meanwhile, miles away from Sollel, the trio— Hakken, Grath, and Zassia— stopped on their track when they started seeing flowers blooming on a dead land.

They became wary, but when they realized that the flowers was pointing them towards the canyon, everyone was stunned.

And in a heartbeat, Grath kneeled in front of the flower and spoke to it. “Queen Gatria?”

As if to answer Grath, flowers bloomed to make a path towards the canyon. But it didn’t last long. The flower started to wither and it disappeared.

“If that’s really Queen Gatria,” Zassia breathes put. “She’s weak, but she’s conscious. We have to get to her fast!”

Hakken nodded and the trio started running. From time to time they would see flowers blooming to give them direction. Because they know where to go and what direction to take to avoid anything that could block their path— thanks to the flowers— the trio was already almost near the canyon.

Just a few miles and they’ll arrive in the canyon. And after that, they only had to wait for their queen to cause distraction and they’ll enter.

They know it was easier said than done, but they were willing to risk it. They already came so far. It’s do or die.

And they all chose ‘do’.

♕♕♕

AT THE CENTER OF the canyon in the Hallowed Valley, at the bottom where there was nothing but dirt and moonrite stone, a woman was chained to the walls and ground. Her once light brown hair had darkened and was now close to black.

She was weak. She couldn’t even open her eyes, but her consciousness was wide awake. She could feel the movement on the ground, the breath of life outside her cell and the vibration in dead soil around her.

Countless of years being imprisoned, countless of years feeling her resentment tripled, and after countless of years being alone in the dark abyss that she was in, she felt her.

She felt her familiar

heat on the barren land. She felt her presence closing in. She felt her guilt and her anger and her remorse and her strength.

She felt the presence of another queen— the queen of distruction and fire known to all as the Mistress of Flame.

Weak as she was, a smile made its way to her lips and for the first time since she was caged, a word escaped her mouth— not a word, but a name.

“Sollel…”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 59

CHAPTER 59

TO REACH the center of the Hallowed Valley, the canyon, Sollel had to walk for several days. Only resting a few hours at night. And in her travel, she would something saw flowers randomly blooming on her path every time she was mumbling to herself and feeling down.

She was alone, she had no one to entertain her but herself, so her mind was always thinking things she didn’t want to think.

But every time she would feel guilty at night, a flower would bloom beside her as if Gatria was trying to make her feel better. Somehow, it always lightens up her mood.

In her fourth day of travel, Sollel started to feel flame essences and some others, warning her that she was getting nearer to the canyon. She could also feel Zassia and Grath’s essences.

Looks like they were already in position. Sollel thought as she continued walking towards the canyon.

Gatria’s presence was getting stronger as she continued. And as she head down to the canyon, she could see rows and rows of sorcerer and sorceress blocking her path. No soldiers were present. Everyone was powerful and formidable. The elites of the elites of the Kingdom, Sollel presumed. From land to the air. She was surrounded by enemies. It looked like they were all ready for her arrival.

Her plan to separate was indeed a good idea.

Seeing how her enemies were all ready for her, before the effect of the moonrite stone that she was sure the enemies had to weaken her, Sollel already readied some of her large scale attacks under the clouds. Just waiting to be called down and be unleashed.

And every step of her feet, flame erupted from the ground, as if following her movement and forming a sea of scorching flames.

Sollel immediately knew when she entered the moonrite stone radius of effect because her cloak glowed red. Absorbing the effect of the stone so she could keep her strength, but Sollel didn’t know how long will it last so she had to move. She had to get closer to cause more damage.

Not minding the wind sorcerer and sorceress attacks from the air, Sollel sprinted forward. Using the physical strength given to her by the deities, she used her legs full potential to speed up and she had become a blur in everyone’s eyes.

Sollel only stopped when she reached the center of the valley where the sorcerers were. And as she stood in the center, surrounded by the elites of the kingdom, Sollel pull down the hood of her cloak and smiled at everyone.

“Hi,” she said. “I’m here to fetch a friend.”

The sorcerers answered Sollel with large and powerful attacks. From the air, wind vortex was launched at Sollel to unbalanced her and hoist her up to take her off guard. Robust gust of wind was also released and it immediately surrounded Sollel.

But the sorcerers did not stop their attacks because they taught to not stop until the woman was down or dead.

After the wind sorcerers attacks, flame sorcerers followed. They all dropped fireballs, fire blast and beam at the center, the scorching heat mixing with the wind, making the air became unbreathable unless one wanted their lungs burnt.

And what followed flame, was water.

Multiple water blades from multiple water sorcerers. Water bombs being thrown to the center. And water pillars to cage the Mistress of Flame so she couldn’t escape.

Wind. Flame. Water.

Everyone attacked with their strongest attach at the same time and the Mistress of Flame remained in the center. They didn’t even know what was happening to her, they just kept on attacking after they exhausted themselves, but that plan was not feasible when flames suddenly started raining.

Balls of flames. Raining down on them. The impact on the ground, making the whole valley trembled. Everyone on the ground fought to balance themselves at every shake of the valley and screams were heard as the balls of flame with the size of a large boulder kept dropping, creating chaos, dampening sight and hearing and killing everyone who could make a shield to protect themselves.

Wind sorcerers who could fly flew out of the range to be safe and at the safe distance, they saw the horrific sight on the ground. One wind sorcerer couldn’t take the sight anymore— he flew towards the center to blast the Mistress of flame with his strongest wind attack, but before he could even call his wind, a ball of flame, dropped on him, pulverizing him in less than a minute.

In just a matter of minute after it started raining fire, fear was instilled in every sorcerers heart as it continued to rain flaming boulders. And their fear doubled when they saw the Mistress of flame standing in the midst of destruction, unharmed as her cloaks flow red.

The sorcerers near the Mistress of Flame, the one who gave their all to their attacks shivered in fear when they saw how unharmed she was. As if their powers had no effect on her!

“I thought this stone was supposed to weaken her!”

“I don’t know! That’s what they said!”

“Then why is she not weak, yet?!”

“That’s a monster!”

“That’s the Mistress of Flame!”

“What a monsters!”

“Keep the moonrite stone glowing!” Someone shouted, someone from the higher-up. “Imbued it with your essence and let it shine brightly. We will subdue that evil queen!”

Listening to their order, the remaining alive sorcerers who still had their stones imbued it with their essence.

And as it glowed brightly, the cloak the Mistress of Flame was wearing was also glowing brightly.

Sollel could feel that her cloak will not last that long. She could see it ends burning away as if it was the cloaks life line.

I have to move fast. Even as she thinks of that, the effect of the moonrite stone was slowly penetrating her cloak and affecting her as seconds passes.

Not wasting any time, Sollel raised her hand and as she fisted her knuckles, four gigantic flaming swords appeared in the sky in square formation and before anyone could react on how to protect themselves with such humongous flame attack, the flaming swords rapidly plummeted, leveling the ground and shaking the Hallowed Valley.

Not enough! Sollel shouted in her mind and she summoned countless of ball of flames, dozens of average sizes of flaming swords appeared in the sky, hovering the whole valley and two drops of her blood of flame crawled on the ground, blistering the path it took and leaving burnt marks.

The wind sorcerers outside the area of Sollel’s attacks had their jaw dropped seeing such formidable flame.

No wonder their orders were to use the moonrite to weaken and not engage the woman in any way. These were the thought that was passing in every wind sorcerer’s mind as they watch the horrific display of flame on the ground that even from a great distance, away from the area of attack, they could feel the scorching heat in the air!

But they were confident in their numbers. One versus hundreds of elemental sorcerers. They know they can win. They know they’ll win without the stone. But they were only kidding themselves.

This was not a fight! This was a massacre! And they were the one being slaughtered!

“A monster…” one of the wind sorcerer watching from the distance murmured as she watched the Mistress of Flame caused chaos and bring doom and death on the ground.

One of the high-tier wind sorcerers nodded. “We need to go inform the king. Now! Tell him the stone is not working as they said!”

One wind sorcerer volunteered, but before she could get away, a flaming sword dropped from the sky, stabbing her and burning her to death with no remains as the sword pierces the ground.

Loud gasped in shock at what happened filled the air and no one dared to move! They thought they were out of the Mistress of Flame’s range, but they were wrong! She was just letting them think that they are! But if they moved against her, they will be burned to death too!

All wind sorcerers were frozen in the air, afraid to make even a single move against the Mistress of Flame whom they bombarded with powerful attacks earlier, but it didn’t even leave a scratch!

Frozen with fear in the air and scorching hell on the ground. In was utter chaos in the canyon. Just like what Sollel was aiming for.

Distraction. That was their plan.

As she raze a little hell in the canyon, she could feel Zassia and Grath are moving further until she could only feel a minuscule of their essence.

That means they’re finally inside.

Sollel smiled in triumph, but the sorcerers who saw her smile felt the chill in their bones. In their eyes, Sollel’s smile was gloating and monstrous.

“You’re all done?” Sollel asked the sorcerer and sorceress around her who were still alive.

Sollel could already feel the moonrite stone breaking through her cloak and destroying the cloak enchantment. My cloak can only absorb so much. But before its destruction, she will destroy everything she could.

As if a child that was unleashed for the first time, Sollel raised both her hands in the air as she gleefully gathered all her essence and called her blood of flame.

“Blood of flame!” Sollel’s thunderous voice echoed, sending chills to everyone who heard it and all they could do was watched her and wait for another destruction and hell. “Come forth, and heed my call!” Sollel spread her arms as she looked at the sky with a smile. “Filled thy air with my anger and release my fury. Breath of flame!”

The sorcerers waited with bated breath after the incantation, but nothing. No explosive flame raining from the sky. No attacks that shake the land.

It was dead silent.

Until one after another started coughing vigorously, as if they were being robbed of their breaths and their coughs became even more destructive as they struggle to breathe more air.

“W—w-what d—did you… do?” A water sorcerer near Sollel who was now coughing flame asked with great difficulty.

With grace and haughtiness combined, the Mistress of Flame answered. “I filled the air with small particles of my blood of flame. The harder you breath, the faster your inside burns and melts. I am actually forbidden to use it. It’s lethal and it doesn’t identify between ally and foe. But who could stop me?” A chilling smile spread across Sollel’s face. “You imprisoned the ones who could tell me to stop, after all.”

Calm and melodious voice. But cold and terrifying.

“But don’t you worry,” Sollel still looked calm and amiable as she spoke frightening words. “I’m still weak, so the area of effect is rather small. And the duration only lasts for a minute. Though, after a minute, your all gonna be dead nonetheless.”

Sollel’s heart was dark as the starless and moonless night when it comes to humans that she didn’t feel any pity as everyone around her started dropping to the ground and dying slowly and pitifully.

Instead, she watched them die. With no emotion on her face.

The humans I once adored… Now all I feel is resentment and fury.

Sollel closed her eyes as her breath of flame vanished from the air and the air became breathable again. But it was too late for everyone who got a whiff of her breath of flame.

Death surrounded Sollel, but also, she was surrounded by moonrite stone that was dropped by the dead sorcerer and sorceress on the ground. And since the moonrite stone already broke through her now destroyed cloak, slowly, she dropped to her knees, weak and couldn’t move a muscle.

She had spent all her essence in her last attack. She had no strength left. And that was the scene General Kar, Warlord Hakkeran, the kingdom’s sorcerers and the Adral warriors witnessed.

Hakkeran was ready to run to his queen and gathered her in his arms, but Gabin gripped his arm to stop him.

With an aching heart, Hakkeran just watched as General Kar throw his war hammer at his queen.

Hakkeran wanted to close his eyes, but he had a job to do. With his eyes on his queen, he watched as his Krahika got slammed with Kar’s hammer and was thrown a few meters away on impact.

But the second time Kar throws his war hammer at Sollel, she managed to block it with her palm while kneeling on the ground and then throws it on the side as if it was a just a sack of grains.

And that shocked General Kar to the core that he became frozen.

“I’m w-weak…” Sollel whispered as she try her best to stand up, “but not t-that weak.”

Kar gritted his teeth and called his war hammer back to his hand. Fueled by anger at what he had been through because of the Mistress of Flame, he throws his war hammer at Sollel again, but Hakkeran couldn’t take it anymore.

In a blink of an eye, he was beside Sollel and his sword blocked General Kar’s war hammer.

“It’s my job to bring her back to the empire alive, General Kar.” Said Hakkeran as he takes out a bright and large moonrite stone from his ring and encircled his arm around his queen’s waist and carried her in his arms. “You may accompany me to make sure that she’ll be back in her cell, or you can stay and make sure that Queen Gatria wouldn’t be able to escape her moonrite prison.”

Kar called his war hammer back to his hand and answered Hakkeran. “I trust you. I’ll stay and make sure that Queen Gatria will stay in her prison.”

Hakkeran nodded and called his gryphon out of its bead.

“Gabin, everyone, I’m going back to the empire to surrender the Mistress of Flame!” Hakkeran send out his order as he mounts his gryphon, with Sollel still in his arms. “Gabin, use the Kingdom’s secret passage back to Ager after you helped General Kar secure Queen Gatria’s cell.”

When Gabin and everyone nodded at his order, Hakkeran signaled his gryphon to fly. And when they were already up in the air, just the two of them, Hakkeran pressed his lips against his queen’s forehead.

“It’s going to be all right, my Krahika .” He whispered. “Just endure this last one for me. I swear on my name. This is the last one.”

Sollel muttered weakly. “H-Hakken…”

Hakkeran’s expression softened. “He’s fine.”

Sollel hated the feeling of the moonrite stone draining her strength, but upon hearing Hakkeran’s voice, she slowly let go and stopped struggling. “H-Hakkeran…”

“I’m here.” Hakkeran hold his queen’s hand. “I’m sorry, but I can’t seal this moonrite stone. You have to be weak for the meantime, my Krahika . The whole empire and the emperor are waiting for your return.”

Sollel wanted to nod, but too weak to even do it so she just hummed.

“Forgive me, my Krahika .”

“Hmm.”

Hakkeran smiled softly at that before he whispered. “And I love you.”

“Hmm.”

Hakkeran dipped his head and claimed his queen’s lips. He only pulled away after he felt contented and cradled his queen’s body closed to his chest.

Their flight was uninterrupted and after a few days of flying with little rest and with his gryphon’s exceptional speed, they finally reached the gate of the empire.

And in front of the emperor who had a greedy smile, Warlord Hakkeran Adral presented Queen Sollel, the Mistress of Flame and handed her back to the empire.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 60

CHAPTER 60

HAKKEN KNEW his lady was very strong, but to actually see her gave her all to raze hell in the Hallowed Valley, one massive attack after another, he was left in awe as he watched his lady from a hidden corner near the large structure in the center of the canyon.

Thanks to the flower that guided them, they were able to went around the enemies and stay hidden.

Hakken’s eyes looked at his lady again. She was mesmerizing as her flame surrounded her. She was a sight to behold. Anyone could feel her supremacy as she stood there and call on her flames to raze hell.

She brought chaos, destruction and death, and Hakken still finds his lady very alluring and mesmerizing.

Ah, I want to kiss her.

“Lord Hakken, let’s go!”

That snapped out Hakken from his reverie and glanced at Grath who was pointing the unguarded entrance because the guards ran towards the battlefield to lend a hand.

Hakken nodded and after one last look at his lady, he ran towards the entrance with Grath and Zassia.

The moment they entered, they were greeted by a long tunnel and they found out that the building in the canyon was just an entrance to a tunnel. There was nothing and no one there. Maybe because all the guards that was supposed to be here were all outside, fighting the Mistress of Flame.

But there was another problem. The tunnel they took was connected to another three tunnels and it was deep underground.

“Which way?” Zassia asked while looking at Hakken, then at Grath.

“I have no idea.” Grath answered with a shrugged.

While Hakken was looking around on the ground until he found a flower. “There. Flower.”

“Oh!” Zassia beamed at the flower. “Thank you, Queen Gatria!”

With the flower as their guide, the three took the right tunnel. And while walking, they could feel they ground shake violently, one after another, as if it was about to give out.

“Teacher is really powerful,” said Zassia while using her staff to light their path. “Her flame attacks can even shake the ground.”

“Yes.” Grath sighed, nervous that the ground might fall on them. “Let’s hope we find Quern Gatria fast before we get buried alive here.”

Hakken was on the front and beside him was Zassia. The tunnel’s size can accommodate three people, but Grath chooses to take the rear to watch their backs.

Aside from the ground shaking from time to time, the tunnel was dead silent that the three started wondering if they chose the right tunnel. But their doubts disappeared when they finally reached the end of the tunnel and they were welcomed to a large underground chamber.

Unlike the path they took, the chamber was well lit with enchanted stones and there were two prison cell in the center. Both prisoners— a man on the right and a woman on the left— were chained to the wall. And more than a dozen of guards were stationed in front of the two cells and they were all armed and ready.

Hakken’s hand immediately reached for his war blades when Zassia stopped him.

“Let us do it, Lord Hakken,” she said with a determined look. “My teacher blessed me with her flame and I will use that flame to save Queen Gatria.”

Grath nodded at Hakken. “Let us fight, Lord Hakken. We want to make Her Highness proud. We want her to not feel regret for blessing us with her flame.”

That made Hakken smile. “Okay. My arm is killing me anyway.”

Zassia and Grath both smiled and nodded at Hakken before they jumped out from the tunnel and down to the chamber.

My lady will be very proud of them. Hakken thought as he watched Zassia and Grath take on the more than a dozen guards or so. Zassia’s flame and her style of fighting, even her attacks were similar to Sollel. Grath on the other hand took advantage of his flame claw and his brute force to take down anyone who tried to block the path.

With their back on each other, Zassia and Grath’s flame filled the chamber and mercilessly burned everyone. It was not as lethal as Sollel’s flame, but enough to send the soldiers to their deaths.

Only after Zassia and Grath defeated the soldiers did Hakken jumped down from the tunnel to the chamber.

Immediately after, Hakken pointed the right prison cell to Grath, and Zassia while he went to open the left cell.

Zassia used her scorching flame to melt the lock on the right cell while Hakken used his war blades to destroy the lock in the left cell. And after using so much force, the wound in his arm started bleeding, but he didn’t mind it and continued destroying the door.

When it finally opened, Hakken put back his war blades on his back and kneeled in front of the prisoner to check if was the King of Druids. “King Tirac…?”

The man groaned and moved making the chains on his ankle and wrist clattered. “… who am I speaking with?”

Hakken gave his name.

King Tirac clicked his tongue. “Took you long enough. Do you know the suffering I’d been through because of your damn plan?”

Hakken smiled as he took an item from his pocket. An enchanted item left to him by King Tirac before he was ‘taken’ and ‘imprisoned’. It could open any lock put on a person, such as the chains locked on the King of Druids wrist and ankles. Though it was useless against lock doors and prison cells.

“You agreed to it, remember?” Hakken answered as he used the key to unlock the chains on his wrist and ankles.

King Tirac scoffed. “Countless years, you shithead! If not for Her Highness, I will never agree to your crazy plan!”

Hakken just smiled and help King Tirac to stand up.

“How’s my people?” King Tirac asked as he stood up straight.

“Safe.”

“Good.” The king nodded before he grabbed the key from Hakken’s hand and he ran towards the prison cell next to him.

Hakken followed and entered the the moonrite prison. Grath, and Zassia were already there, holding the weak woman while King Tirac used his key to unchained the queen.

And Hakken felt it when he saw King Tirac shedding a tear as he unchained the woman.

“I’m so sorry, my Queen. It took me a long time to free you.” King Tirac was asking for forgiveness while crying and bowing his head while unchaining the queen at the same time. “You can punish this lowly and foolish, weak King for not being able to save you fast. I will accept any punishment, Your Highness. We will accept any punishment.”

Seeing King Tirac, Hakken remembered how he also begged and cried when he first held his weak and unconscious lady in his arms.

“My Queen, can you stand up?” King Tirac asked Queen Gatria with so much reverence. Druids were after all one of Queen Gatria’s loyal subjects.

All Queen Gatria could manage as a reply was a small groan.

“Just carry her.” Said Hakken to King Tirac who immediately shoot Hakken and glare.

“It’s disrespectful! I will not do it!”

“Just carry her!” Hakken snapped. The ground already stopped shaking, that meant his lady was now in the enemy’s hands. “We have to go! Do you want get caught and be imprisoned again?! If so, then be my guest.”

“Fine!” Against King Tirac’s wishes, he carefully carried Queen Gatria in his arms and the five of them went back to the tunnel.

But before they could even reach the center of the tunnel to escape, they came face to face with the strongest general in Treterra.

General Kar Drue.

Even with bleeding arm, Hakken draw his war blades. While Zassia raised her staff and Grath unleashed his claws. Meanwhile, King Tirac muttered something under his breath, an enchantment to activate the shield in his clothes to not sustain damage and protect his queen in his arms.

But their battle stance remained a battle stance when General Kar didn’t move to attack. His eyes were focused on Queen Gatria’s face and there were longing and confusion in their depths.

Kar’s hand gripped his war hammer tightly and his mind was shouting at him to move and attack, but he couldn’t take his eyes off of the unconscious woman. He was drawn. He wanted to get close, not to attack, but to touch her. To feel her skin. To make sure that she was unharmed.

Kar felt like his world stopped spinning when the woman’s eyes started fluttering open. It was too slow, but Kar waited for them to open with bated breath.

And when those dark brown eyes opened and their gaze met, slowly, the woman’s hand raised, as if reaching out to him and Kar unconsciously reached out his hand to met hers, but before their fingers could touch, out of nowhere, a thick wall appeared in the middle, separating the two groups

From behind the wall, Gatria spoke in a weak voice. “I u-use—d all t—the s-strength I have l—left to m-ma—ke a new t-tunnel. It’s s-safe…”

“Your Highness!” King Tirac panicked when the queen lost her consciousness.

“That’s normal,” said Hakken who was already following the new tunnel. “She had been drained and she just used all the strength she had to give us safety passage. Let’s go. We have to get her to safety.”

King Tirac trusted Hakken’s judgement even though he didn’t like Hakken, so he nodded and followed him together with Grath and Zassia.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the wall, Kar was left speechless and he felt like his heart was being squeezed and trampled on that he had to cupped his chest where his heart was and hold it as if it could lessen the pain.

Why… why am I hurting?

General Kar had no way of knowing that Gatria was not reaching out for him, but using her last strength to erect a wall in between them to not see the general and make a new safe passage for her rescuers.

“General?”

“General Kar?”

That snapped out Kar from his shock and immediately, he gave out an order. “Find them!”

The sorcerers and the Adral warriors immediately went to work and scoured the whole tunnel to look for the intruder, but they saw nothing, not even a footprint. But they still searched the whole tunnels, not knowing that a new tunnel was made using Gatria’s last strength — a tunnel that they didn’t know of. And the more they search, the more the intruders were getting away.

But of course, they didn’t know that and just continued searching the whole Hallowed Valley.

♕♕♕

IN THE SACRED FOREST, under the sacred tree, ten elven elders were all sitting in a circle position and Cira was at the center, holding the moonrite stone in her hand.

Everyone had their eyes close as they focused all their essence into analyzing the stone together with Cira.

And meters away from that was Xeke who was leaning on a tree trunk and guarding his Cira from anyone who wanted to do her harm.

In a couple of days that Cira had been analyzing the stone together with the elders, Xeke never left her side. He was always there, watching and guarding her.

Though Xeke liked watching Cira, there was one thing he hated while guarding her, and that was her sister elder sister, Coradyl.

She kept on visiting him and talking to him. Xeke didn’t want to be arrogant, but he could tell that Princess Coradyl wanted his attention that was only meant for Cira.

He didn’t want to be rude, but after a few days of feeling annoyed, he finally decided to be blunt with the Elven Princess.

“Princess Coradyl, please refrain from talking to me and acting as if we are close. I only belong to my elf over there,” he pointed at Cira who was on analyzing the stone, “I don’t want my Cira to think badly of me if she sees us together and you are acting close to me.”

Princess Coradyl’s face became unsightly and wailed like a brat. “Just who do you think I am?! I am the Elven Princess while that useless garbage is not even part of the sacred forest anymore! I have more value than her!”

Xeke was playing with his dagger as he answered while staring at Cira. “To me, my Cira has more value than you or than anything in this world. Even my arcane weapon is valueless compared to her, so don’t bother comparing yourself to my Cira. In my eyes, you are nothing.”

Princess Coradyl, who wanted to steal the man whom she thinks Cira likes, couldn’t help thumping her feet on the ground before she left furiously.

Meanwhile, seeing the princess leave, Xeke was relieved because he didn’t really like her from the moment she called his Cira ‘insolent’.

My elf is adorable, not insolent. Xeke clicked his tongue and continued watching Cira from afar to make sure she was safe.

Xeke thought he’ll have to wait a couple more days until they finished analyzing the stone, but when night fell, he heard Cira’s triumphant and gleeful howl.

Xeke immediately transported himself beside Cira where he left one of his daggers and he was shocked when Cira just suddenly hugged her while jumping up and down in delight.

“You succeeded?” Xeke asked as he let Cira hugged him while controlling himself not to wrapped her in his arms.

“Yes! Yes!” Cira was beaming with happiness. “We found it! I don’t know what kind of stone is that, but at least, we know. At least, we have an idea, right?!”

Xeke nodded and smiled at Cira’s happy face. “I’m glad you found it.”

“Me too,” Cira didn’t care if she was almost pressing her body against Xeke’s, she was too happy to care. “Come on! We have to leave immediately and find that stone!”

Xeke just sighed when Cira just held his hand and dragged him away. Of course, as soft as he was when it comes to his elf, he just let her do whatever she wanted.

But their plan to leave the sacred forest and look for the stone that Cira was talking about didn’t push through when they heard the rumor that was circulating in the elven kingdom.

“With Warlord Hakkeran Adral unending efforts, the Mistress of Flame has been caught and is now back in the empire.”

Other races who knew the Mistress of Flame and were happy when she escaped would be devastated by such news, but to other races who knew what it meant, it was not a devastating news, but a good one.

Because that news was the beginning of a much larger plan. A large scheme that had been going on for years under the noses of the four powerful human kingdoms.

Now, it was time to strike back. And striking back will start from the queen of destruction herself, Queen Sollel Vatra Sarragny, Krahika of the temple of Ignis, the first blessed queen of Yther, the Mistress of Flame.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 61

CHAPTER 61

DRAINED AND WEAKENED, Sollel was kneeling in the middle of the throne room, in front of the emperor while Warlord Hakkeran was standing behind her. The Mistress of Flame was too weak that even her forehead was down on the floor, as if she was bowing.

And the sight of the Mistress of Flame being weak made the emperor smile.

“What a great job, my nephew!” Emperor Gabrien exclaimed in delight as he stood up from his chair and walk down from his throne to Sollel who was almost crouching on the floor. “I know that I can always count on you. I’m very glad!” He gripped both of Hakkeran’s shoulders to show her appreciation more. “I’m so proud of you, Hakkeran!”

Hakkeran simply nodded his head to accept the praise. The emperor was already used to his nephew’s silence that he didn’t mind.

“We will throw a feast!” The emperor declared to his trusted aide and Prime minister that were also present in the throne room before he looked down at the Mistress of Flame that was immobile on the floor.

The emperor’s trusted aide and the Prime minister clapped their hands to show their support.

“We will show the whole Azitera that the Mistress of Flame, one of the most powerful beings in Azitera, is not a problem to the empire and that we will continue our prestige!” Emperor Gabrien smiled triumphantly. “This will surely quench any unrest in our kingdom.”

Hakkeran frowned at that and asked the emperor, “unrest, Your Majesty?”

Emperor Gabrien sighed and nodded. “Yes. These weak and lowly races were trying to destroy our empire just because the Mistress of Flame escaped. Hah!” The emperor kicked the Mistress of Flame in the gut, sending her rolling on the floor. “What can this useless woman do? Nothing! Aside from her blood, she’s useless!”

The emperor kicked the Mistress of Flame again and again until he was satisfied because of the problem she caused and the stress she had given him.

“You will not escape again, do you hear me?!” The emperor gripped the Mistress of Flame’s hair and pulled her head up to slap her multiple times while snickering at the superiority he was feeling.

Imagine, the Mistress of Flame, one of the most powerful beings, were his slave and prisoner! Emperor Gabrien was gloating.

Hakkeran was boiling with rage inside, but outside, his face remained passive and expressionless.

“Hakkeran, my nephew, you have to join our feast.” The emperor finally let go of the Mistress of Flame and face Hakkeran. “This feast is for you.”

Hakkeran nodded. “I will gladly accept your invitation, Your Majesty. May I bring my warriors? They also helped me trapped the Mistress of Flame. It was not just me.”

Emperor Gabrien snorted at his nephews modesty. He had always been like that, always giving his warriors their due credit. Maybe that’s what makes the Adral Warriors strong. The emperor didn’t care, really. As long as Warlord Hakkeran Adral was under him and he works for the empire, he didn’t care what the Warlord does with his warriors.

“Whatever you want, my nephew.” The emperor was too happy that Hakkeran caught the Mistress of Flame to reject Hakkeran’s humble request. “You can bring all your warriors. We will all throw a feast for them as well! Will you like that, my nephew?”

Hakkeran nodded and showed a small smile. “Yes, Your Majesty. I will like that very much.”

Emperor Gabrien patted Hakkeran’s shoulder in delight before he went back to his throne and commanded his aide and Prime minister. “Send the news to every corner of Azitera that the Mistress of Flame, the evil queen, had been caught and will be back to her prison. Our weapons will continue outstanding as ever and wealth will be upon us once again!”

Then another order was issued by the emperor. “Put the Mistress of Flame back to her cell! Double the moonrite stone and double the guards patrolling and guarding the chamber. Make sure that no one could go in and out except for me and the Master forgeman. Drain all her blood until there’s nothing left and strengthen our weapons again! And then ready for a feast! We will celebrate!”

The emperor’s trusted aide immediately called for the general to bring the Mistress of Flame to her moonrite prison while the Prime minister went to share the joyous news and ready the feast.

Meanwhile, the emperor asked Warlord Hakkeran to stay in the throne room to hear his whole narrative of what happened. And the warlord recounted every detail to the emperor, of course, he omitted anything that had something to do with him and Sollel being together in close proximity.

After his report, the emperor finally let Hakkeran leave to return to his home town, Adral.

Upon Hakkeran’s arrival at his castle in Adral with his gryphon, Treven welcomed him with a smile when he entered his castle’s great hall.

“Look who just arrived,” Treven sipped his liquor from the goblet he was holding while sitting on Hakkeran’s throne. “How’s Queen Sollel?”

Hakkeran gritted his teeth. “Imprisoned. Again.”

Treven left Hakkeran’s chair to give way for the warlord who owned it. “Isn’t that your plan?”

“It is, but seeing my queen in that state…” Hakkeran was so close to exploding and killing the emperor.

Treven sighed and finished his liquor. “And Gatria?”

“Out.”

Treven nodded. “Thank you for keeping your promise.”

Hakkeran sat on his chair. “A promise is a promise. And you also did your own part splendidly. I’m satisfied with your work. By the way, how was your trip? Did you finally seduce someone?”

Treven chuckled while playing with his crystal balls. “I did meet someone interesting. A half-demon.”

That piqued Hakkeran’s interest. “Another warlord?”

Treven nodded while a smile was playing on his lips as if he saw something really interesting. “His arcane weapon is a cursed scimitar. He had blind folds around his eyes and he has a very demonic handsome face.”

Hakkeran raised his eyebrow at Treven. “That’s not what I want to know, Treven.”

“You’re always no fun, Hakkeran.” Treven chuckled and face Hakkeran. “Yes.” Treven said as if he was confirming what Hakkeran wanted to know. “He’s strong, but not easy to sway. He’s a very upstanding warlord, opposite to you in every sense of the word.”

Hakkeran grimaced and Treven just innocently grinned, making Hakkeran sighed.

“Is he an ally or not?” Hakkeran didn’t care about the other stuff.

“I don’t know,” Treven sighed. “He’s handsome though. Totally my type. I might seduce him. Who knows, he might be willing to be our ally if he fell for me.”

Hakkeran sighed at Treven. “Is he even interested in men?”

“No.”

“Then don’t bother him. Let him choose whether he wants to be an ally or not.”

Treven narrowed his eyes on Hakkeran. “I know you, you nasty warlord! You’ll kill him if he turned out a foe.”

“Yes.” Hakkeran didn’t even bother denying his intention.

“Fuck you, Hakkeran. He’s a very handsome man!” Treven glared at Hakkeran. “He’s totally my type!”

“Bur you’re not his type.”

If a glare could kill, Hakkeran would be dead in an instant after Treven’s sharp glare. “Don’t you dare kill him! He’s my type, Hakkeran!”

“If your type could ruin my plan and hurt my Krahika, I will not hesitate to kill him.” It was a warning. “As long as he stays out of my way, I won’t do anything to him.”

Treven grumbled and cursed Hakkeran to no end in his mind. “Whatever! Don’t touch him. He’s mine.”

“No, he’s not. You’re not even his type.”

“Go, die!”

“I already have.”

Treven clicked his tongue. “Whatever. I’m going to my room. Inform me once Gatria is awake. We both have a bone to pick with that idiot Kar.”

Hakkeran just sighed as he watched Treven leave the great hall.

Now alone in the hall, he felt a vibration inside his ring. Opening it, he took out the item vibrating. It was an enchanted communication in a shape of a flat crystal made of Athezerite. One of the most well known crystals in Azitera. Any Druid could enchant it to make it a communication device. Thought it was very expensive and only nobilities and some merchants had it.

Seeing the name that flashed on the flat crystal, Hakkeran tapped the surface of the crystal to answer it.

“Gabin. Any news?”

“Yes. We can’t find Queen Gatria and Queen Sollel’s companion. We’ve been looking, but nothing.”

Hearing that, Hakkeran immediately changed his plan to adapt. “I’ll give you a new route. You have to intercept them and bring them to me before the big day.”

“Yes, Your Excellency.”

“Good. And oh, the emperor is throwing a feast for us. Be sure to be here before that.” Hakkeran smiled. “It’s a very important day. Be sure to ready our warriors before the feast starts. It’s a feast for us, after all.”

Gabin on the other side of the enchanted communication crystal smiled. “Yes, Your Excellency. They’ll definitely be ready for the feast.”

“Good. Make sure to accomplish my orders with flying colors, Gabin.”

“Yes, I will, Your Excellency.”

Hakkeran ended the connection and sighed when the sight of his queen earlier entered his mind again now that he was alone and not talking to someone.

I will accept any punishment after this. Whatever my Krahika wanted, I will do it to redeem myself. But for now, he had to be stone hearted. He had to do all the dirty work to clean his queen’s path. This is all for you, my Krahika. All for you.

Closing his eyes, Hakkeran rested his head on the back of his seat. The memory of everything he did to get where he was not flashed through his mind.

From rounding up every race that still believed in the Yther’s queens, to formulating a plan— a crazy plan they say— and mapping everything out to make sure his queen’s route would not be as dangerous. He dedicated his three lifetimes for the coming big day. He lived and died for his Krahika. Everything he did was all for her.

His love for her couldn’t be measured by the words ‘I love you’, but it’s the only words he knew to express how he felt for his queen.

What he feels was more than love itself. It was more than what those three sweet words could explain. More than what he could express. More than anything he knew and understand. Even he didn’t understand himself. He just loved her. Plain and simple.

I love her. I’m in love with her. I will always love her.

Hakkeran sighed and massage his aching temple. Ah, I missed her already. I wonder if she hates me now after sending her back to the place she hated the most?

♕♕♕

THE QUEEN who could answer Hakkeran’s question and worry was back in her moonrite prison, chained to the wall and to the ground, surrounded by moonrite stones.

With double the quantity, Sollel’s flame essence was severely depleted. She couldn’t even move her body and her mind was starting to get hazy, but she was fighting her mind’s feebleness by thinking of her Hakken.

When she was imprisoned here before, she kept on passing out and when she was conscious, her mind was just blank and when it’s not, it was always filled with rage and vengeance. But now, things have really changed for her.

There was still fury, her thirst for revenge hadn’t changed, but now, she had Hakken and Hakkeran, Cira, Zassia and Grath. She had all these people she cherished now and she didn’t want to lose them. She wanted to protect them with every fiber of her being.

She didn’t know Hakkeran’s plan, why he put her back in her prison, but she knew he was planning something. Her Solaris would burn him to crisp if there was an ounce of betrayal in his mind. But even knowing that Hakkeran had a plan, she still hated being back here.

She just hoped that Hakkeran’s plan was enough to compensate for what she’s enduring right now. Because if it wasn’t, she will really smack Hakkeran in the head and burn him to crisp. Thought getting mad at him would be difficult since she agreed to his plan.

She used herself as bait so her companions could get to Gatria, and she was only confident to do that was because of Hakkeran. She knew that even if she was weakened and she got caught again, Hakkeran will be there to keep her safe.

But she was not expecting him to bring her back to the empire. That warlord! Whatever you’re planning, it better be good .

That was the only thing keeping Sollel calm in her moonrite prison for days while her blood was being drained again. The Master forgeman immediately went to her cell after she was chained. Her arms were cut to make her bleed fueling her rage.

And as her blood dripped down, she kept replaying in her head how she would burn everyone who took advantage of her in this empire. Everyone who used her blood flame. Everyone who knew she was caged and chained. Everyone who thinks highly of themselves. Everyone who belittle other races. Everyone who abused and enslaved other races. She will not let any single one go.

Only by doing so will she right her wrong.

She could never take back what was lost because of her thoughtless decisions, because he chose to help the wrong race, but she could promise to keep what was left. And if keeping what was left safe meant waging war against these greedy humans, she’s enough to annihilate any armies standing in her way.

But all that, was just in her mind. She could only do that if she escaped. Again.

She knew that she couldn’t escape by herself, but she’s not worried at all. Why would she be? The person who freed her will surely come back to free her again and she couldn’t wait to see them. She couldn’t see that person before of how weak she was, but her situation now was different. She may be weak, but she could still open her eyes and her hearing was still sharp.

She just had to wait.

Yes. That’s all she could do, really. Wait and worry.

Wait for her freer and worry about Gatria’s safety. But she trusted Hakken. She left Gatria to him. She was sure that he will not let anything bad happen to her. She just hoped that General Kar will not block their path.

Oh, well, I’m sure Gatria will be able to take him on even though she just escaped. Gatria’s prison was underneath the ground, she could always draw strength from the soil around her. And that’s what makes Gatria more dangerous than her to be honest.

Gatria could control the whole Azitera if she wanted, while she only controls flame. That’s what makes Gatria more dangerous than the rest of the Yther’s queens.

Meanwhile, Gatria was still unconscious while in King Tirac’s arms. And the group was still underground without any idea how long they had been there already. Hakken, Grath, Zassia and King Tirac didn’t know how long and far this tunnel went, they just kept on moving, following the tunnel with Zassia’s staff as their source of light.

The whole group didn’t know if a day had already passed or if it had been days already. That’s how long the tunnel was. And as they tried their best to reach the end of the tunnel fast, they were all left in awe at how long it went. It only shows how powerful Queen Gatria was even at a weakened and unconscious state.

Though Gatria’s unconsciousness was affecting Hakken. His wound was bleeding and festering and the pain was causing his head to spin. But he was trying to hold on. He had a promise to keep to his lady.

But as they continue to reach the end of the tunnel, as his wound continue to fester, bled and hurt, Hakken was not sure anymore if he could keep his promise to his lady. I have to hold out. My lady will be very mad at me if I didn’t keep my promise. But as Hakken thought of that, his vision started spinning before it darkened and he lost consciousness. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 62

CHAPTER 62

THE BIG DAY finally came. The feast had been prepared and the whole Infernal Empire was in celebration. The empire’s people were cooking the best dishes they could cook and wear the best clothes they had to celebrate with everyone. Everyone was in festivity mood, oblivious to what was about to happen.

The whole castle was in uproar. The emperor and the nobilities were in joyous mood. Eating, dancing and laughing with themselves. And Hakkeran was one of those nobilities. Though no smile could be seen on his lips. He was expressionless, but it was not new to the nobles around him. They were even stunned to see the warlord present since the warlord usually decline such gatherings.

And beside the warlord who was wearing his full leather armor— only his face could be seen, was the warlord’s trusted aide, Gabin, who just returned after accomplishing the warlord’s order with flying colors.

“Your Excellency, please smile.” Gabin was feeling stressed again. “Emperor Gabrien is coming this way.”

“I don’t feel like it.”

Gabin used the name that could change his excellency’s mind. “For your Krahika , Your Excellency.”

Almost immediately, a small smile appeared on Hakkeran lips, the same time the emperor reached them.

“Hakkeran! My nephew!” The emperor looked so proud and happy. “Why are you here in the corner after announcing that you’re a hero? There’s a lot of beautiful women tonight from noble houses. Take your pick. You can have as many as you want. They are all more than willing to warm your night.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.” Hakkeran sounded respectful that lessen Gabin’s worry. The reason why the warlord didn’t like coming to these kind of parties was because he hated these people, so to see him playing nice and amiable, Gabin was relieved. “I will surely choose a woman before the night ended.”

The emperor laughed heartily. “Good. Good. I’m looking forward to your heir, Hakkeran. He will surely be just like you.”

Hakkeran bowed his head. “You’re praising me too much, Your Majesty. I will humbly accept it.”

The emperor laughed again. “I am speaking the truth, my nephew. Anyway, how’s hour warriors? Are they enjoying themselves?”

Hakkeran smiled when he remembered what his warriors were doing at the moment. “Yes. They’re drinking with the empire’s soldiers.”

“Good. Good.”

“Though I have to excuse myself later, Your Majesty.” Hakkeran bowed his head again as if deeply apologizing. “I’ve heard from my warriors that some races were trying to invade our joyous occasion. I plan to take care of them personally.”

That made the emperor smile. “As always, thank you for your services, my nephew. I will leave everything in your capable hands.” Warlord Hakkeran had already proven himself to the emperor time and time again that the warlord already earned the emperor’s trust when it comes to subjugating other races. “Do come back after you’re done with those low lives.”

Hakkeran nodded. “As you wish, Your Majesty.”

The emperor finally left Hakkeran alone and Hakkeran’s face was back to the way it was— cold and expressionless.

“Gabin.”

“Yes, Your Excellency.” Gabin immediately answered.

“Is everything ready?”

“Yes.”

“And the noble houses?” Hakkeran didn’t want anything to ruin their plan.

“Already in position. Just waiting for the signal.”

Hakkeran sipped the liquor on his goblet. “Good. Tonight’s a big night after all.”

Gabin nodded. He was just as excited as his excellency. He had been looking forward to this day— or night. It’ll be surely a night that no one would forget for years to come.

Gabin would do anything for the night to be perfect for his lordship. His Excellency had been planning this for three lifetimes and now, it was finally set into motion.

Silently watching and observing, Gabin stayed by his lordship’s side until his lordship decided to talk to the emperor to bid farewell for the meantime.

That was Gabin’s cue.

Gabin left his lordship’s side and stepped out from the hall where the feast was being held to carry out his excellency’s plan.

Meanwhile, after Warlord Hakkeran bid goodbye to the emperor for the meantime, using the ’ other races causing commotion’ as his reason, he left the hall and without hesitation, Hakkeran entered the castle’s hallway and went down to the castle ground.

As he passed the ground and entered the empty castle’s garden, Hakkeran ordered the Solaris in his wrists to change into its true form before he emerged in the castle maze connected to the courtyard — the entrance to the underground chamber.

Hakkeran was immediately stopped by the guards in the courtyard even though they knew who Hakkeran was. The warlord’s deep blood red leather armor and the flaming swords on his back was giving the guards an intimidating aura, and also dread, but his majesty’s order was absolute.

Swallowing their fear, the guards spoke to the warlord. “W-we’re very sorry, Warlord Hakkeran Adral. You’re not allowed inside. His Majesty’s order.”

Hakkeran didn’t say anything and just looked at the man walking towards their way. A man who holds a title of a general— he was the deceased General Adri’s rival— General Barrin Duval.

“Soldiers, what are you doing stopping Warlord Hakkeran Adral?” General Barrin’s strict gait and face made the soldiers stilled and scared. “Warlord Adral was sent by the emperor to check the moonrite prison, to secure it since there’s a disturbance outside the city caused by those races who wanted the Mistress of Flame back. Feel free to check with His Majesty. Of course, you have to face His Majesty’s wrath if you disturbed him and disregard his orders.”

The words came from a very upstanding general and also the newly appointed overseer of the whole courtyard and the chamber at the bottom of the castle after General Adri’s death, so the soldiers didn’t question the warlord anymore and let him pass.

Walking beside the general now, Hakkeran spoke in a low voice. “Thank you for the save.”

“I was waiting for you, Warlord Adral.” General Barrin still had no emotion on his face even though his voice showed reverence. “Hearing from you that it was my last order after so many years of working for the empire by your order made me feel relieved. I am excited to go back home after this.”

Hakken nodded. “Thank you for lending us your strength, Barrin.”

Barrin shook his head, he couldn’t accept the gratitude. “Do not mention it, Warlord Adral. We, the Phoenix’s race, are doing this for our majesties, Queen Sollel and Queen Astrid. We are glad that our race’s ability to take a form similar to humans could help our queens. We thank you for finding our queen and for planning their escape thoroughly. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to help out and for leading us up to this day.”

Yes. General Barrin was not human, but a phoenix who could take a human form. Of course, nobody knew that in this empire. Warlord Hakkeran approached the Phoenix race to ask their help when they needed a high-ranking official they could trust inside the empire. It was not difficult for Barrin to infiltrate the empire after he showed his strength and battle prowess. Phoenixes had a leader charm about them and even in their human form, they’re still very strong in human standard.

“Don’t mention it,” said Hakkeran. “We all have our reason and purpose why we banded together and why you all listened to me.”

Barrin couldn’t help showing a wry smile at the warlord’s last words. “You threatened them, that’s why they listened, Your Excellency.”

Hakkeran glanced at Barrin. “I didn’t threaten your race.”

“But you came with your flaming sword.” Barrin refuted.  “A sword that could kill us.”

Hakkeran shrugged. “It was just for insurance.”

Barrin just shook his head and continued leading the warlord towards the entrance to the chamber.

“Are there other people inside the chamber except for the guards?” Hakkeran asked.

“Just the master forgeman and his assistant. He had been draining Queen Sollel’s blood.” Barrin’s face darkened. “Queen Sollel will be weakened again because of them. As much as I wanted to kill them, I was waiting for your order.”

Hakkeran felt the same, but a plan was a plan. “Don’t worry. It’ll be over soon.”

Barrin’s facial expression finally relaxed. “Yes. Finally. The last stone was delivered in the empire’s smithy’s secret chamber. No wonder we couldn’t find anything however hard we try to look. They took every single piece and hid it from everyone.”

Hakkeran nodded. “But we found it and we will take it all.”

Barrin smiled. “Yes, Your Excellency.”

The two finally reached the stone door— the only entrance to the chamber at the bottom of the castle— and Barrin opened it and let Hakkeran enter first.

“Do it as planned.” Hakkeran told Barrin.

“Yes.” Barrin bowed his head and left the warlord’s side to carry out his last order.

As Barrin left, Hakkeran started descending on the long and spiral staircase that would lead him to the chamber. When he reached the middle of the stone spiral staircase, Hakkeran took out the enchanted necklace he always wore hidden inside his armor and crushed the enchanted pendant with his bare hands.

He didn’t need the necklace anymore. He didn’t need to lie or keep any secrets from his Krahika from this day forward.

Tonight, when he faced his Krahika again, it’ll be the real him — the whole him. And he could only hope that his queen and his lady would accept him as he was.

Continuing his descent, Hakkeran reached for his sword on his back and draws it as he reached the bottom of the stair. Before the guard at the bottom of the stair noticed his presence, they were already burned to crisp with only one slash of Solaris .

Finally stepping inside the chamber, he infiltrated once, Hakkeran let Solaris burn as much as it wanted, its flames flaring fiercely as if showing its eagerness to the be wielded. And Hakkeran didn’t disappoint it. They had a pact after all. It will stay by his side and protect him so long as he wielded it to burn and kill the humans that betrayed its owner.

“Who are you?!” A guard who just noticed Hakkeran draw his sword and everyone followed suit and aimed their swords at Hakkeran who was just standing there.

“He looked familiar.” Another guard spoke.

“Isn’t he the wanted hunter running around with the evil queen?”

“How did you manage to enter this chamber?!” The head of the guards in the chamber walked to Hakkeran as if he had the strength to defeat the intruder.

Nonchalantly, Hakkeran pointed the stairs he used to come down the chamber. “I used the staircase.”

“You bastard!” The head of the guard sprinted and jumped in front of Hakkeran, readying a powerful slash from the top, planning to cut Hakkeran in half, but Hakkeran didn’t even need to move.

The Solaris in his hand flared as if showing its anger at the insolent attacker. The flares burned brightly, blinding the guard and burning him at the same time.

Seeing the scorched corpse of the head of the guards, the other guards stepped back in fear. They have not seen such flame attack, even from the strongest flame sorcerers.

“F-for the emperor…!” Said one guard who wanted to fight his fear. “We will fight for the emperor. We have to keep the evil queen in her prison!”

Hakkeran’s eyes darkened in rage, but before he could act on his anger, the Solaris beat him to it. It just suddenly flared and burst, its flames filling the whole chamber, every inch was filled with Solaris ’ flame, burning everyone mercilessly but Hakkeran.

Hakkeran sighed and glanced at Solaris after everyone was burned to crisp. “You could’ve let me handle them. I like slicing them up, making them bleed than burning them.”

Solaris flared a little as if it was talking back to Hakkeran and Hakkeran glared at it.

“Don’t you dare talk back to me,” Hakkeran spoke as it as if scolding a child. “Or I will not return you to your owner.”

Solaris flared fiercely to show how against it was.

Hakkeran put Solaris back on his back and walked towards the center of the chamber. Upon reaching the middle, in front of the moonrite prison, he stared at the prisoner inside with bright red hair intently before he used Solaris to destroy the prison’s lock.

Entering the moonrite prison, before Hakkeran could get closer and unchained his queen, she slowly stirred awake, as if waking up from her deep slumber just for him. And bit by bit, her head rose to look up at him, her eyes fluttering open, showing her lava-like eyes, swirling in their depths.

Controlling his throbbing heart, Hakkeran spoke. “I’m here to fetch you, my lady.”

Hakkeran knew his Krahika was weak, but she still managed to smile at him that made his heart flared and thundered in his chest.

“W-what took you s-so long… Hakkeran?”

Hakkeran took a deep and stepped closer to his queen to free her from her chains. “You can call me Hakken.” He freed her and wrapped his arm around his lady’s waist to pull her up and embraced her at the same time. “I like it more than my full name.”

As feeble as she was, Sollel buried her face in Hakkeran’s neck and whispered. “I—I’m g-glad y—y-you’re okay, Hakken…”

Hakkeran smiled and kissed his Krahika’s shoulder. “Ready to raze hell, my Krahika ?”

“A-anytime…”

Hakkeran chuckled and carefully carried his Krahika out of her prison like what he did the first time he took her out of prison. “Let’s go then. I ready a feast for you, my lady. It’s a grand celebration.”

Sollel only smiled and leaned her head on Hakkeran’s chest. She was weak, but happy— happy because her assumptions and suspicions were not wrong.

Hakken is Hakkeran. Her hunter was her warlord. I was right not to choose. Why chose when I can have both? 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 63

CHAPTER 63

IN HAKKERAN’S arms, Sollel felt safe and secure as she rested her head on his chest. And as they gradually put a distance between them and her moonrite prison, Sollel could feel her strength gradually coming back, but the bad news was, her blood had been drained and she was back to being weak.

Maybe not as weak as before, but her strength now was nothing compared to her strength when she razed hell in the Hallowed Valley.

“Hakken…” Sollel whispered softly, “I’m weak again. I can’t raze hell if I’m this weak. I can only make few small balls of flames in my state right now.

Hakkeran pulled his Krahika close to his chest as he starts to ascend on the spiral staircase. “I readied a big feast for you, my lady. You’ll be full in no time.”

Sollel was silent, so Hakkeran asked. “Don’t you trust me, my Krahika ?”

“I let you drag me back here, remember? Of course, I trust you, but I’m still slightly mad at you, Hakkeran.” Sollel glared at Hakkeran. “That bastard emperor kicked me so many times and you just stood there!”

“I will make it up to you. Please don’t be mad, hmm?” Hakkeran sounded sweet, but fearless and strong that it left Sollel stunned for a moment. She was not used to that.

It was the first time for Sollel to hear that kind of voice and tone from Hakken or Hakkeran.

When she was with Hakken before, he was always so sweet, soft and caring, while Hakkeran on the other hand was distant and cold — always holding back, but still caring.

And now that he’s back to being ’ whole ’, the man in front of her now was kind of different, but familiar at the same time.

“Hakken?”

“Hmm?”

Even the tone of his voice was different. Sweet, but rugged. This is not good. I’m seriously in danger.

“You have a lot of explaining to do.” Sollel had been curious ever since she realized that the two were the same person. Unfortunately, they were not in the right time and place to ask and interrogate him. “But for now, I won’t ask since I trust you even though you felt different somehow.”

That put a smile on Hakkeran’s lips. “How am I different? Maybe you’re just used to Hakken. Do you like him more, my lady?”

Sollel narrowed her eyes on Hakkeran. “You’re not allowed to ask me that trick question. Stop being jealous of yourself.”

Hakkeran shrugged. “I can’t help it. Even if it’s myself, when it comes to you, I am very selfish.”

“I can see that…”

“You told me before that you wanted to see the whole me, and this is it.” Hakkeran sounded as if his whole self were not a good person. “The whole me is not nice and sweet like Hakken. And I’m scared because you’re used to him and you might like the half of me more than the whole me. But I’m still praying that you would accept me as I am, my lady. Though if you think you couldn’t and you’ll be more happy with only the half of me, I wouldn’t mind splitting myself in half again to give you Hakken.”

Sollel didn’t move her eyes away from Hakkeran. She was watching him the whole time he was talking and she knew that he was not pulling her leg. One word from her and he will really split himself again to give Hakken to her — whatever she wanted, Hakkeran would give it to her without hesitation.

And Sollel didn’t know why her heart ached while listening to him. It’s as if Hakkeran was ready to sacrifice half of himself for her happiness. He was not even thinking of himself and it made her chest ached.

“What… will happen to your other half?”

“You will not see him again after tonight. Hakkeran will remain in the shadows, like he always has.” Hakkeran answered without an ounce of hesitation. “I’m happy that I’m now talking to you as the whole me, but I don’t think the whole me deserves you, my lady. Only Hakken deserves your attention and affection. Only Hakken could make you happy.”

Sollel was thankful that her blood of flame was weak, because if it’s not, she would have burned Hakkeran in annoyance. “You’re such a dimwit, Hakkeran. Hakken is you, you idiot. He is half of the whole you and not a different person. How long has it been since you split your body and consciousness that you’re thinking like he’s a separate person at all?”

“Every rebirth for three lifetimes.” Hakkeran answered.

“No wonder…” Sollel muttered under her breath and she flicked Hakkeran’s nose. “Your name may be Hakkeran, but you’re my Hakken. You keep saying that Hakken is nice and sweet and only he deserves me— don’t give me that crap, Hakkeran. When I told you I want to meet the whole you, I already know that you and Hakken are the same person. Yes, I like Hakken, but I like the other side of you too— the Hakkeran who took care of me in the Shivering Valley and the Hakkeran who chose to stay in the shadow for my sake. I want Hakken together with Hakkeran and I don’t want Hakken if Hakkeran is not together with him. Because honestly, if you two were a different person, I would not hesitate to have you both and make you two mine.”

Hakkeran was just gaping at his K rahika while she was talking and scolding him that he even stopped ascending the stairs. And when he heard her last words, he was in disbelief that his lady actually considered having them both.

“H-how… how did you find out that we’re the same person?”

Sollel shrugged as if it was not a big deal. “My memories were hazy because of the after effect of the moonrite stone on me, but as I slowly recover my strength, my memories were getting clearer as well. After consuming that flame sorcerer’s essence in the clearing back in Ager, my memories started to come back with clarity and I remember you.”

“Me…?” Hakkeran asked as if he couldn’t believe that his Krahika remembered him, a lowly soldier she fought.

Sollel nodded while finding the stunned Hakkeran adorable. “Of course. How could I forget the warrior who wanted to marry me if he won?”

Hearing that, Sollel had to stop herself from laughing when she saw Hakkeran’s face turning red. But the most adorable part was that his face was red, but he remained expressionless as if nothing could faze him.

He’s really whole now. Sollel observed. If it was just Hakken, he would blush and act embarrassed. If it was just Hakkeran, he’ll be expressionless as usual. But now that they’re whole, the reaction had become whole too. Ah, my adorable warlord.

“And I remembered your arcane’s weapon ability,” Sollel decided to put Hakkeran out of his expressionless embarrassment and added. “When I fought with you, you used your arcane weapon’s ability to split your body and consciousness in half, doubling your strength and fighting prowess.”

“You didn’t even doubt that you might be wrong?” Hakkeran still couldn’t understand his queen’s confidence that they were the same person knowing that he had a different face than Hakken.

“I baited you back in Ager to make sure, of course.” Sollel smiled innocently at Hakkeran and Hakkeran sighed at his Krahika’s slyness.

“Is that why your attitude towards me changed when we entered the Valley of Bones?”

“Yes. I will never take interest in you if you were not the warrior I fought all those years ago.” Sollel confessed. “And you’re adorable when we met again. It’s my weakness.”

“I’m not adorable.” Hakkeran denied it with a straight emotionless face, but he was blushing profusely.

“Whatever you say,” Sollel even shrugged. “Though I’m kind of curious how it works. I mean, I remember fighting two of you before, but you two were in close proximity. But now, I’m pretty sure Hakken was very far away from you when we were traveling.”

“As long as my arcane weapon is safe, Hakken can go to the end of the Azitera without me and he’ll be fine.”

Now Sollel understood. “So, you’re the real Hakken? I mean, the body…”

“There’s no real or fake between me and Hakken. We are the same person. Sharing the same body, soul and heart. Except for our attitude, nothing’s really different between us. Well, I look different when we met because I’m using an enchanted item from the Druids to change my appearance. I can’t have the same face as Hakken because the façade we made will be useless. After all, the reason I split myself into two was to cover more grounds and to move without anyone knowing while making sure that you’ll be safe in your travel.”

“And? How do you two communicate? I’m sure you two were banding together to deceive me.”

Hakkeran immediately looked away as he continued climbing the staircase. “We use the old way to message each other— through birds— to avoid getting attention. What he knows, what he experienced while away from me—his memories— I will only see them once we become one again. But that only applies to memories and experiences. When it comes to physical changes, it’s different. When Hakken was bitten by that poisonous flower, I felt the pain.”

Hearing the last part of Hakkeran’s explanation, something naughty entered Sollel’s mind and she was not Sollel if she would pass that opportunity to tease Hakkeran.

“So, back when Hakken and I were on the stream… you felt that?”

Hakkeran cleared his throat, his face becoming red again, but still expressionless. “I didn’t realize that that was happening. I only knew about it when we became one again and our memories fused together.”

Sollel really wanted to laugh at Hakkeran’s flushed face. “I thought you could feel a physical change. So, the you down there didn’t change?”

Hakkeran took a deep breath as if calming himself and it was funny to Sollel because he looked already calm from the outside.

“ It always hardened ever since Hakken accompanied your travel. I’m always aroused,“ Hakkeran said it with a straight, but red face, “I thought it was the usual again, so I didn’t think any of it. Only when our memories became one that I realized why it was that hard that day.”

Sollel couldn’t stop herself anymore. She laughed. And Hakkeran just looked at her flatly, making Sollel laughed even harder.

Watching his lady laughed so hard, Hakkeran’s flat expression changed and turned soft. And out of nowhere, Sollel felt Hakkeran kissed her forehead, making her stop laughing.

“Hakkeran?” Sollel called his full name after he pulled away from her forehead.

“Yes, my lady?”

“Are you happy?”

Hakkeran replied without any hesitation. “Very.”

“I’m glad.” Sollel’s face softened.

Hakken looked down at Sollel. “What do you mean you’re glad?”

Sollel shrugged. “You make me happy, so I want to make you feel the same way. Isn’t that normal when you like someone?”

“I don’t know,” Hakkeran replied as he picked up his face to reach the top of the staircase. “You’re the only woman I ever love, so I have no idea what people normally do when they adore someone. And I don’t just like you, Sollel. I love you. And the only thing I know about love is— when you love someone, you protect her, keep her safe and make her happy.”

“That’s why you’re protecting me.” Sollel surmised. “Without asking anything in return.”

Hakkeran nodded. “Because that’s the only thing I know how to express my love for you, because I don’t think that the words ‘I love you’ is enough to convey the depths of my feelings for you.”

Sollel didn’t know that words could melt her, but melt she did. “Hakken?”

“Hmm?”

“Put me down.”

Hakkeran instantly became worried. “You should conserve your strength—”

“I’m fine. We’re far away enough.”

Seeing how determined Sollel looked, Hakkeran put his Krahika on the floor, still holding her waist to help her balanced herself, but Hakkeran was surprised when his lady wrapped her arms around his neck and she pressed her lips on his.

Hakkeran knew they were not in the right place and time, that they have lots of thins to do, but when he felt his Krahika ’s lips on his, he just lost it and even pinned his queen on the wall and deepened the kiss.

From her lips, to her neck and ear and back to her lips again.

It was a very dangerous kiss because it made him ache for his Krahika. He wanted to take her there and then. He wanted more than a kiss, but… alas, his queen slightly pulled away from his lips.

Hakkeran thought it was over, then his lady whispered, the lava-like liquid in her eyes swirling intensely.

“After all this mess, you and me are going to continue this in bed, Hakken.” Sollel could see how much Hakkeran wanted her. The emotion in his eyes when he looks at her never lies. It was clear and she could see clearly that he was aching for her— and so was she. “You can express your love for me in bed again and again, and I will accept it and reciprocate it again and again too.”

Hakkeran gulped and nodded vigorously as if he was in a hurry. “Let’s finish this then, my lady. My bed in my castle is waiting.”

That made Sollel chuckle. “Excited, are we?”

“Yes. I am.” He held her hand and he started climbing the stairs again. “Come on, my lady, let’s go and finish this.”

Sollel laughed at Hakkeran who was taking his time earlier ascending the staircase while talking to her, but now he was eager to finish this and be in bed with her.

Ah, my adorable hunter and warlord.

Sollel just let Hakkeran pulled her towards the top of the staircase, towards the stone door. But before they stepped out, Hakkeran took his flaming sword from his back and handed it to Sollel.

“I did all I could to get this back to you. I apologize for using your Solaris without your consent, my lady.”

Solaris was the only physical weapon Sollel could wield. It was made specially for her. But Sollel didn’t accept it.

“Keep it.”

Hakkeran blinked at his lady in shocked. “What…?”

“Keep it.”

Hakkeran was not the only one shocked, Solaris as well. The flame around it waned as well, as if it was said and Sollel laughed at it and flicked its hilt.

“Take good care of my Hakken, Solaris. As long as you keep him safe, I will be very happy with you and feed you with my blood of flame.”

Almost instantly, Solaris flared as if to say ‘yes’ to Sollel.

“Good.” Sollel, then looked at Hakkeran. “Keep it.”

“But this is your weapon—”

“Keep it. It’ll keep you safe even from my blood of flame.” Said Sollel to a surprised Hakken. “And it already bonded with you. It might physically damage you if I cut the connection between you two and take it back.” Then Sollel smiled teasingly at Hakkeran. “You can think of it as the Queen’s gift to her future King.”

Sollel was stunned when Hakkeran suddenly just buried his forehead on her shoulder. And after a while, Hakkeran’s lips pressed against her shoulder so intimately before his lips moved to kiss her neck, her jaw, her face so intimately and lovingly, before it move to kiss her ear and he whispered.

“Will you… marry me?”

Sollel raised her hand and caressed the back of Hakkeran’s head. “You want to be my king?”

“No. I want to be your husband. I want to be your Hakken. I want to be your Hakkeran. I want to be yours. Being your king is the last on my list.”

That made Sollel smile lovingly as she continued to caress the back of Hakkeran’s head. “Ask me again, Hakken.”

Hakkeran obliged. “Will you marry me, my lady?”

“Yes. I will.”

Hakkeran let out a loud breath as if his breathing just went back and then he took out a beautiful flame Sunstone ring and slid it on her finger.

“The Dwarven King made this as per my request. Then the Druid King enchanted it for me. With his enchantment, unless you purposely melted it, the ring won’t be melted by your flame. Perfect for my Queen of Flame and destruction.”

Sollel smiled and pressed her lips on Hakkeran. When she pulled away, she punched him playfully in the gut. “What’s with you and proposing in the enemy’s territory?”

Hakkeran smiled and kissed her. “You accepted.”

Sollel shrugged. “I fell, what can I do?”

Hakkeran just suddenly grabbed Sollel and hugged her so tight, as if he couldn’t get enough of her. And after a while, he finally let her go and he opened the stone door as if nothing happened.

“Let’s go, my lady?”

Sollel shook her head and chuckled. “Let’s go.”

“My Krahika first.”

Sollel rolled her eyes at Hakkeran and stepped out first. And with Hakkeran as her guide and protector, Sollel found herself in a very familiar building. Familiar because she had seen the same building back in the Dwarven Kingdom — the smithy’s building. The place where they make weapons and other things.

Sollel turned to Hakkeran when she realized something while walking towards the smithy building. “I saw no guards on the way here. What happened to them?”

Hakkeran just shrugged.

Sollel just shook her head because he knew Hakkeran did something to them.

“Let’s go in, my lady.” Said Hakkeran before he opened the large double door of the smithy’s building for her.

Sollel was expecting the sound of forging and feel the heat of the flame, but what she saw from the outside was burnt corpses. And as she stepped in, she immediately found out the reason.

A phoenix in full form was at the center of the smithy. She knew it was the phoenix who caused all this. And upon observing the phoenix, Sollel lips slightly parted when she recognized the phoenix’s by its feather’s color.

“Barrin?”

The phoenix’s glowed and it changed into its human form. Immediately, Barrin kneeled on one knee in front of his majesty and bowed his head in reverence.

“My queen, your servant apologizes for not coming to your aide sooner.” Barrin’s voice was filled with guilt. “My whole race accepts your punishment.”

Sollel sighed, seeing her favorite mythical bird asking for forgiveness. “Barrin, stand up. Why would I punish you? You didn’t do anything wrong. Now, why don’t you tell me about what you did here?”

Barrin glanced at Hakkeran beside her before he looked at her. “I’m here as per Warlord Hakkeran Adral’s order.”

Sollel was not even shock anymore as she glanced at Hakkeran, asking for explanation.

Hakkeran just motioned his hand at the wall. As if listening to Hakkeran’s silent order, Barrin got up and walked towards the wall. After pressing three parts of the wall at the same time, a secret door opened in the wall.

Sollel looked at Hakkeran again, who just smiled at her and motioned her to enter.

Sollel trusted Hakkeran so she didn’t hesitate to enter the secret door and descended the staircase connecting it to the chamber below.

When Sollel reached the end of the staircase while Hakkeran and Barrin were behind her, she was welcomed to an enormous chamber, ten times bigger than the smithy building above.

And this chamber was filled and overflowing with firestones. Its sizes and quantity was more than enough to recover all her strength.

“A feast befitting for my Krahika. “ She heard Hakkeran’s comment.

Sollel turned to Hakkeran. “Is this why you took me back here?”

He nodded. “It’ll take a lot of time to recover your full strength by depending on those flame sorcerers’ essence.”

“When did you know about this stone being hoarded here?” Sollel asked.

“The first time I freed you, I know the empire hoarded all the firestones as per the previous emperor’s decree, but we didn’t know where it was and we needed someone to distract them so we could move under their noses. So, I let you go to cause destruction and to get their attention even when you were still weak. And while they were focused on you and I was hunting you, my trusted aide, Gabin and then Barrin and other people I planted inside the palace look for it and they didn’t stop until they found it. And here we are. It’s all yours, my lady.”

Sollel was a little exasperated at Hakkeran’s plan and at how he kept it a secret from her even though it was all about her! But that didn’t matter at the moment.

What mattered at the moment were the firestones in front of her.

“Hakken, you can stay beside me, but Barrin, you have to step back and take cover. My flame might burn you later.”

Barrin immediately stepped back while Hakkeran moved to kiss her temple and wished her the best.

That made Sollel smile and when Hakkeran let her go and he stepped away a little to give her space, Sollel closed her eyes and called her blood of flame to absorb the pure flame essence from the firestone.

It didn’t take long before Sollel felt the effect of the firestone. Little by little. Pure essence filled her whole being, refilling the strength she lost until she was overflowing with power.

Together with fast her recovery, her hair turned bright red and all the remaining scars and wounds on her body disappeared without a trace. And when she opened her eyes, the lava-like liquid swirled brightly and fiercely.

Indeed, this was a feast. She was full. But she still absorbed the remaining essence of the Firestone and transferred it to Solaris on Hakkeran’s back.

Sollel only stopped when all the firestone in that enormous chamber lost its glow.

And as Sollel stood there, she could feel her that her full strength was back. She was overflowing with power. And it felt good.

“I’m back,” Sollel whispered and turned to face Hakkeran who already looked like a proud king looking at his queen. “I’m back, Hakken.”

Sollel was literally on fire and Hakkeran was speechless as he looked at his queen.

Infernal Empire, Azitera, the Queen of Flame is back. Hakkeran thought as his eyes remained on his queen who was now walking towards him with a smile on her red lips. If you think you know destruction, oh, how wrong you all are. Because the real destruction has a name and its Queen Sollel Vatra Sarragny — the Mistress of Flame— my Krahika and my lady. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 64

CHAPTER 64

GABIN’S EYES settled on his lordship, who just entered the hall after an hour of being away. He wanted to ask if everything went well, but seeing how his excellency looked calm, Gabin knew everything went well.

He wanted to get his lordship’s attention so he could report the result of their plan to his excellency, but his lordship was called by the emperor and he was invited to stand beside the emperor in front of everyone as the emperor offered a toast.

The warlord was emotionless as always making Gabin sighed. Can’t His Excellency at least fake his smile?

“Everyone! Your attention, please!” A herald bellowed to get everyone’s attention before the emperor raised his glass to speak.

“Everyone!” The emperor started and put his arm around Warlord Hakkeran. “This is our hero who captured the evil queen, the Mistress of Flame, my nephew, Warlord Hakkeran Adral!” Almost immediately, murmurs filled the air and most of them were women trying to get the warlord’s attention not knowing that the warlord already surrendered his body, mind, heart and soul— his everything— to his queen. “I know most women here wants to have my nephew all to herself, that’s why I’m happy to announce that my nephew will choose a woman who caught his attention tonight — or should I say, women?”

Most nobilities laughed heartily, even cheering the warlord on, since having lots of women was a perks the nobilities enjoys.

“Well, nephew,” the emperor glanced at Hakkeran who had been silent since the beginning. “Have you chosen? You can choose anyone you like.”

Hakkeran glanced at the emperor. “Really, Your Majesty? I really can?”

“Of course! This feast is for you and your warriors.”

Hakkeran finally smiled and all the women in the hall nearly swoon at how handsome he looked. “Then, let me introduce the woman my heart has chosen, Your Majesty.”

“Yes, yes. Go ahead.” Replied the emperor who thought the woman Hakkeran was talking about was inside the hall. Only to be surprised when the warlord called for his commander.

“Gabin, open the hall’s door and let my queen in.”

Gabin bows his head at his lordship before he briskly walked towards the hall’s door and using all his strength, he pulled it open widely before he stepped to the side with his head low to show a beautiful woman outside the door wearing a blood red off the shoulder long sleeve sequin sheath dress.

Gabin bowed his head and motioned his hand at the queen to enter, “please, Your Highness.”

The woman with a blood red dress finally moved to step inside the hall and when she finally graces everyone with her beauty and elegance, multiple gasps of adoration and shocked filled the hall.

A graceful and powerful presence made everyone stop at what they were doing. It was only not the beauty nor the stunning dress, it was the bright red hair and lava-liquid eyes that took their breath away.

No dared move, knowing that such hair color and eyes could only mean one thing. A full-blooded Ytherian in their midst.

Their adoration turned sour and hostile, but still, no one dared move. Only whispers and murmurs of disdain filled the hall as the woman continued to walk towards the emperor who looked like he had seen death.

“Who is she?”

“What’s with her hair?”

“Is he really an Ytherian?”

“Is she connected to Warlord Hakkeran?”

“What’s happening?”

Lots of questions were thrown around in low voices, but nobody dared voice out their questions and just continued watching and observing. Meanwhile, members of nobilities who knew and remembered the face of the Mistress of Flame run towards the emperor to protect him while others run outside to call for the soldiers when they didn’t see any soldiers inside the hall which was odd and unlikely.

The emperor’s trusted aid was one of the officials who run outside, bellowing for help until he found General Barrin whom the prime ministers immediately ordered to follow him to the hall and subdue the Mistress of Flame.

Meanwhile, inside the hall, someone finally had the dauntlessness to move and attack Sollel — the strongest flame sorcerer in the empire, Prime minister Zasim Pavras.

Prime minister Zasim used his strongest attack, knowing who he was going against with, but his strongest attack felt like the weakest when it neared the Mistress of Flame and the Queen of Flame just nonchalantly blows it away as if blowing a candle flame and it dissipates so easily as if it lost its strength and power with just one powerless blow.

“What did you do?!” Prime minister Zasim bellowed dauntlessly while trying to hide the fear that was starting to gnaw inside him. “That’s my strongest attack!”

“Oh?” Sollel’s eyes settled on Prime minister Zasim who’s blocking her path to the emperor. “You call that strong?” It was melodious voice. She sounded so serene, but her voice had a hint of coldness in them. “What a waste of my blessing.” With a flick of Sollel’s wrist, every drop of flame essence inside Prime minister Zasim started working against him, devouring his body from the inside until he was burnt to crisp.

In less than a minute, the strongest flame sorcerer of the empire died by his own essence.

Fear hanged in the air.

No one dared to attack Sollel again after seeing what happened to the empire’s strongest sorcerer. All feared the woman who had a smile on her face as she faced the emperor.

“We met again, Gabrien—” Sollel paused, then spoke with a mocking voice. “Wait, that’s your name, right? Gabrien? Sorry,” a very insincere apology. “I don’t remember the names of insignificant people.”

As if waking up from his shock, the emperor started backing away as he called the empire soldiers in his palace. “Soldiers! Soldiers! The moonrite stone!” But even how much he shouted, no empire’s soldiers came to protect him.

“Don’t bother.” Hakkeran finally spoke after his lady entered the hall. “The palace’s soldiers are all dead.” As if mockingly, Hakkeran bowed his head the emperor who was backing away in fear. “My warriors thanks His Majesty for the feast. They all enjoyed drinking with the palace’s soldiers.”

The emperor’s eyes widened when he realized what Hakkeran meant. “You…! How dare you do this to your uncle?! To your blood?! What did you do to my soldiers?! You will never be able to destroy my army—”

“We already destroyed half of them.” Hakkeran shrugged. “It won’t be a problem to take down the remaining half.”

“N-no… w-when did you… what did you do?!” Emperor Gabrien was shaking in rage with bloodshot eyes. “What did you do?!”

“What’s the use of telling you? It won’t bring them back anyway.” Hakkeran answered nonchalantly. “I was supposed to show mercy on them and let my queen decide what to do with them, but they were gloating and talking bad about my lady and I didn’t like it.” Hakkeran’s face darkened. If anyone insulted him, they will let him live, but if they insulted his lady— that is another story. “So I ordered Gabin and my warriors to kill every single one of them earlier when I left to ‘subdue’ the other races outside the city. I mean, you still have alive soldiers outside the palace, but they won’t stay alive much longer.”

Emperor Gabrien was horrified at what he heard. His mind was blank. He always thought that the Mistress of Flame was weak even if she recovered, but seeing her now and feeling her whole presence, now he understood why his predecessor was so scared of that woman. Why the previous emperors were very careful of the Mistress of Flame. Why they take precautions after precautions when it comes to the woman in front of him!

I had been complacent. Emperor Gabrien thought as fear ruled over him, remembering the stories about the Mistress of Flame from the previous emperor. How scary she was when angered and what she could do to express her fury.

But what Emperor Gabrien didn’t understand was his nephew! His nephew never met the Mistress of Flame. Why was he helping her?! “Why… why did you betray your own blood…?!”

Hakkeran looked at the emperor as he would to a bug. “You’re not my blood. But to answer your question, because it’s humorous that way.” A cold, ruthless smile stretched on Hakkeran’s lips. “You, humans, betrayed my queen, it’s only fitting to return the betrayal, don’t you think?”

The emperor still couldn’t believe it. His nephew was loyal to the bone! He was the one who helped him subjugate other small kingdoms to expand his territory! His mind couldn’t accept that his nephew would betray him in his own volition.

Emperor Gabrien glared at the Mistress of Flame. “What did you do with my nephew?! What power did you use on him that he betrayed his own blood?!”

Sollel didn’t answer and just watched the emperor who kept backing away, pale with fear, coldly. As if she was watching someone most unworthy of her gaze. While the nobilities protecting the emperor started backing away too, and even the guests who didn’t know Sollel started to step back too, sensing the danger coming from the woman— they all wanted to run.

Feeling the fear of everyone, Sollel smiled amiably at the guests and spoke sweetly, “you can all leave if you want.”

The guests were overjoyed, they were all more than willing to leave the emperor for their own safety, but before they could take a step, the whole hall was flooded with scorching and suffocating pressure, as if they were being pinned down by heat and they couldn’t move as they try their best to gasp for air. Some even fell unconscious immediately because they couldn’t take the suffocation.

The guests didn’t know it, but it was the essence of the Mistress of Flame, the queen of destruction, flooding the whole hall, filling every inch of the palace.

In the midst of that suffocating pressure that even affecting Gabin, Hakkeran walked towards his queen as if not affected by the pressure and stood beside her before he introduced his lady to everyone as if they were all still in joyous celebration and not suffocating to death.

“Let me introduce you all to my queen.” Hakkeran held his lady’s hand and kissed its back, his eyes never leaving her. “Meet Queen Sollel Vatra Sarragny. Krahika of the temple of Ignis. The first blessed queen of Yther and the Mistress of Flame.”

Gasped echoed and their wide eyes were filled with fear at the mention of the Mistress of Flame. Known to all humans as the evil queen. But the Mistress of Flame herself chuckled at Warlord as if she was amused.

“No need to introduce me, Hakkeran. They’re all going to die anyway, what’s the use?”

Fear runs down on everyone’s spine as the Mistress of Flame’s nonchalance about their death. They all wanted to beg and ask for mercy, but they were too suffocated to even speak.

And then the emperor’s trusted aide entered the hall together with a general. Everyone felt secretly joyous that a savior came.

“Defeat her!” The emperor’s trusted aide pointed the Mistress of Flame in the center of the hall. “If you defeated her, everything will be given to you! Everything and anything you desire!”

“Yes!” The emperor seconded his trusted aide seeing one of his strongest general. “Defeat her and I will give you anything you want. Woman, wealth and power!”

General Barrin only looked uninterested at the emperor’s trusted aide and the emperor before he silently walked towards the woman in the center.

Everyone was hopeful, even the emperor was looking forward to the Mistress of Flame’s defeat, knowing how strong General Barrin was, but their hope was crushed in an instant and everyone’s jaw dropped when General Barrin suddenly transformed into a majestic bird, the mythical phoenix!

And the most terrifying of all after that was how the phoenix bowed down to the Mistress of Flame after it burned the emperor’s trusted aide, making the emperor staggered back.

Just when everyone lost their hope, two of the nobilities who left earlier went back and they had more bad news that made everyone’s heart sunk.

“All the moonrite stone is in the camber and it’s locked! It was not opening!”

“Our— our families! Our mansions are all burnt to the ground! I saw dwarves and other filthy monsters banding together, destroying our homes!”

“The smithy building had been destroyed and everyone was killed!” Another noble reported. “All the firestone had been sucked dry!”

“This has been planned!” Another noble bellowed in rage. “We’ve been betrayed!”

The emperor staggered back in the news. Now he understood why the Mistress of Flame in front of him looked formidable. The firestone — all that firestone . Emperor Gabrien looked at the warlord who still had his eyes on the Mistress of Flame. If he had been helping that woman, is that the reason why he took her back her? For the firestone? To make her recovery her strength fast?!

Emperor Gabrien fell to the ground in shock. He had no soldiers, no generals, no moonrite stone. He had nothing! How was he going to fight this monster in front of her? He felt like he was in the corner, trapped like a mouse.

The emperor was already breaking down inside when he heard the Mistress of Flame’s voice.

“Don’t worry,” she sounded so amiable. “I’m not going to kill you. Because you will be my audience as I destroy everyone and everything you hold dear. So just sit there as I give you the best show you’ll ever see in the whole Azitera— the burning of the Infernal Empire.”

As if on cue, from outside the palace, everyone saw dozens of gigantic flaming swords appeared in the sky. The appearance was so sudden that it made humans wary and nervous, but the other races who saw it and knew what it was, they stopped destroying the noble houses and howled in joy before every single one of them kneeled on one on the ground and bowed their heads in reverie towards the flaming swords.

The flaming swords were burning brightly that its glow and heat could be seen and felt from the terrace in the grand hall. The humans in and out of the palace, though they knew terror, but when the saw hundreds of balls of flame above the gigantic flaming swords, that’s when they know what terror really meant.

After the appearance of two formidable flame attacks just hovering above the palace, a humongous flame pillar suddenly erected around the palace, trapping the massive palace and its inhabitants inside. No one could go in and out.

“Watch,” Sollel told the emperor who had now lost the color in his face and only terror could be seen in his eyes. “As I destroy your empire.”

Sollel flicked her wrist, a casual and unconcerned movement, but to everyone around her, except for her allies, it was a flick of death as the gigantic flaming swords and balls of flame started descending.

Screams. The loud horrific sound of buildings crumbling. The whole palace falling apart and the ground shaking as the gigantic flaming swords pierced and burned everything below while the unending balls of flames brought death, chaos and destruction.

It was the same attack that killed many in the Hallowed Valley, but it couldn’t be compared to that. Sollel only had half of strength at that time, but now, she already had all her strength back. That means she could create endless gigantic flaming swords and non stop raining of balls of flames.

The humans who witnessed such terrifying scene happening in the palace could not move in horror. Only when the balls of flame started falling down on the whole city did the citizens of the city of Faberion started running for their lives, screaming for help and begging for mercy.

But the Mistress of Flame had no mercy for humans. To her, this was her long overdue promise.

The Infernal Empire will burn and Sollel wouldn’t stop until the whole city was in ruins— just like what the humans did to her kingdom. She did not believe in forgiveness. What the humans did to her people and to other races — it’s unforgivable.

And she was not the Mistress of kindness. She’s the Queen of Destruction and the Mistress of Flame who promised to burn her betrayers.

And I always keep my promises. Sollel thought as she remained standing as if everything around her was not in chaos.

Death and destruction surrounded her, but Sollel didn’t care. Her merciless eyes remained on the emperor who was now crouching on the ground, shouting in horror and pitifully covering his ears.

Angry that he was not watching as she wanted, Sollel walked towards the emperor and grabbed him by the collar before dragging him out to the terrace to give him the best view.

“Watch,” Sollel gripped the emperor’s head and forced him to watch the destruction and death in front of them. “I’m not done yet.”

“N—no! No! No more!” The emperor was crying in fear and emotional pain and when he saw the sea of flames erupted from the ground, burning everything in its path, his mind broke down and he screamed in terror.

It was raining flames. Flaming swords piercing down from the sky. Sea of flames erupting from the ground. Flame pillars caging everyone inside with no escape. All that and Sollel was still not satisfied so she raised her hand in the air and created another chaos.

“Blood of flame, come forth and heed my call! Rise from the ground and devour everything in your path! Molten lava!”

Extreme terror devoured every fiber of his being as he saw with his own eyes how a volcano rose from the ground as if alive and started spitting out lava, devouring everything in its path and destroying the already destroyed palace.

The flame razing hell and destruction in the Faberion City of the Infernal Empire could be seen from hundreds of miles away. Instilling terror on everyone.

Except for the town of Adral. The people in town were in joyous celebration. And inside the castle of Adral, in the terrace there stood a man and a woman— a warlord and a queen.

“Looks like she’s really angry.” Warlord Treven commented as he watched the flame devour the Faberion city.

“They deserved it.” The once kind and gentle Mistress of Nature replied in a cold voice.

Treven glanced at Gatria before he looked at the Faberion city and silently watched the city burn.

In days to come, by the accounts of the people who barely escaped the city— it was said that the city of Faberion, and the palace of the Infernal empire burned for seven days and seven nights— making every human in Azitera believed that the Infernal Empire burning was just the beginning of the Yther’s Queens revenge. 

CECELIB | C.C.

SHOUT OUT TO DRAGONESA, MADAM SABOG, MINION T, MINION C, MINION MIC AND MINION MIT 😂 Happy Reading!

CHAPTER 65

CHAPTER 65

SOLLEL IMMEDIATELY destroyed the enchanted necklace Hakkeran was wearing so he could enter the hall earlier without anyone questioning who he was. “You don’t need this anymore. As much as I like your handsome Hakkeran face, I want your real face.”

Hakkeran just smiled and wrapped his arms around Sollel’s waist. “King Tirac will throw a fit if he found out that I destroyed two of his important and expensive creations.”

“Tell him the Mistress of Flame destroyed it.” Said Sollel because she knew King Tirac wouldn’t mind if it was her. “That will shut him up.”

“Don’t mind if I do.” Hakkeran pressed his lips on his lady’s forehead and whispered. “You’re very beautiful in that dress, by the way.”

That made Sollel smile. “You like it?”

“Yes. Very.”

Sollel was pleased and she was about to wrap her arms around Hakkeran’s neck and kiss her lord when she heard a voice from behind her.

“Your Excellency, Your Highness, may we leave and go to Adral?” It was Gabin, who didn’t want to stay in the destroyed palace of Infernal Empire.

Gabin didn’t know how the two could stay loving and sweet while they were surrounded by debris, flames, lava, flaming swords, chaos, destruction and death. They are really meant for each other, Gabin thought when the queen turned to him with a sullen look, as if angry that he interrupted their loving and sweet moments.

“My lady,” Hakkeran kissed Sollel on the temple before he introduced his trusted aide seeing how his lady’s face turning dark. “This is Gabin, my trusted aide. Gabin, this is my lady and my Krahika , Queen Sollel. From now on, you will aide her too.”

Upon hearing that, Sollel’s face lit up and she even smiled. “Oh. So you’re the trusted aide.”

Gabin was relieved to see the queen smiling. I will not turn into crisp Gabin. “A pleasure to meet you, Your Highness. I hope that I can be of your service in the future.” Gabin bowed his head, respectfully, as he hopes that the queen will not stress him out like his lordship. “I apologize for interrupting your moment with His Excellency, but it would be best if we change location.”

Sollel looked around them before returning her eyes at Gabin. “You don’t like what I did to the place?”

“Yes, Gabin.” Hakkeran seconded as if scolding Gabin. “I think my lady did amazingly with this place.”

Gabin had to stop himself from looking at the queen and his excellency flatly. Yes. They are really meant for each other and yes, they will give me headaches in the future. “Your Excellency, we have a guest in Adral, remember?”

As if Hakkeran only remembered their guest, he replied, “oh, yes. We have a guest. Let’s get going then.” And from his ring, he took out a bead and called Nessus. “Come out, Nessus. We’re going home.”

When Nessus came out, he immediately went to rub his beak against Sollel’s arm making Sollel smile.

“You miss me?” Sollel ruffled Nessus’ feather before looking at Hakkeran. “Go ahead first and wait for me in the sky.

Hakkeran just nodded and didn’t ask any more question. He asked Gabin to mount Nessus after he mounted and told Nessus to fly up.

Up in the air, where they could see whole palace, that was the only time Hakkeran and Gabin saw the destruction Queen Sollel caused.

“What a scary queen,” Gabin muttered under his breath, seeing the ruins below them caused by nothing but flame— destructive flames. Everything was burnt and destroyed. Death could be smelled in the air and even at that moment, the whole city was being devoured by lava and sea of flames as people scattered to escape.

The Mistress of Flame didn’t focus on the citizens, but no one was spared in the palace.

Well, there was one.

Emperor Gabrien who lost his mind while watching his beloved empire burning and being destroyed.

And the said emperor was being carried by the Mistress of Flame by the collar as she flew up to the sky, her flame wings flapping as she flew higher and higher to reach Nessus.

“She… can fly too?” Gabin was in awe seeing the Mistress of Flame surveying the destruction she caused from the air. He had heard so much about Queen Sollel, but he didn’t know she could fly too.

Hakkeran smiled seeing his lady flying so freely in the sky. Her strength and confidence was truly enchanting. “Yes. She can. Isn’t my queen amazing, Gabin? I feel so blessed.”

Gabin only nodded at his excellency when he saw how proud the warlord looked while watching his Krahika. “She’s very terrifying, Your Excellency. I suggest you don’t anger her or you will be Warlord crisp  Hakkeran Adral.”

Hakkeran glared at Gabin. “Gabin, do you want to die by falling from Nessus?”

Gabin immediately smiled at his lordship. “Of course not, Your Excellency. Queen Sollel seemed to adore you so much. I’m sure she won’t burn you.”

Hakkeran nodded, looking pleased at Gabin’s change of wordings.

Gabin sighed after seeing his lordship suddenly in a good mood. Good thinking, Gabin. He patted himself on the back for saving himself and just silently watched the Mistress of Flame flying high in the sky with the emperor in her hand.

Anyone could see how happy she looked while flying. She looked so carefree. Far from the terrifying Mistress of Flame from earlier. That was horrifying, especially when he felt his condense essence filling the room, suffocating everyone including him.

Gabin immediately sits upright when the queen flew towards them.

“Nessus!” The queen was beaming as she asked Nessus to carry the emperor by biting the emperor’s collar. “I’m sorry for asking you to do such a hard task, little Nessus.” The queens spoke in a cuddle-like voice. “If you got tired, you can just drop him. I don’t mind. Just don’t kill him. Okay, Nessus?”

Like his master, Nessus was smitten to the queen and nodded.

Like master, like pet. Gabin thought and he stayed silent and just watched the queen’s float in front of the warlord and kissed him.

Gabin wanted to sigh, but inwardly, he was happy for his lordship. He was with him in his every struggle. He was with him when he was doubting himself if he was enough for his queen. He was with him when he’s planning everything to free his queen. So, to see him happy after so many lifetimes, he was overjoyed for his excellency.

But— yes, there was a but— seeing them kissing in front of him without care and respect for a single man like him, Gabin wanted to speak his mind and complain. But knowing how the queen hated to be interrupted and knowing how scary she was when mad, he kept his mouth shut and just waited for the two to finish devouring each other’s lips like there was no tomorrow.

Gabin nearly sighed in relief when the two finally pulled away from each other.

“Go ahead. I’ll follow.” Said the queen to Warlord Hakkeran before she flew high in the sky that even Nessus couldn’t reach with a wide smile on her lips, like a child that had been unleashed for the first time.

As for Hakkeran, seeing his queen flying freely with her flame wings, he patted Nessus’ back and told him to fly to Adral. Immediately, Nessus flapped his wings and flew towards the direction to Adral while Sollel was just flying above them.

When they passed the city gate of Faberion where everyone was trampling each other just to leave the city, Sollel flew down and took the emperor from Nessus’s teeth and she just nonchalantly dropped Emperor Gabrien outside the gate, shocking the citizen, but Sollel couldn’t care less.

Sollel flew up and once she was high enough, she faced the city of Faberion and raised her hand. In a heartbeat, balls of flames started falling again. It was small in size, but it moves fast and it covers a wide range of area.

Seeing that, Gabin’s lips parted and he couldn’t help asking. “She’s still not done?”

As if to answer Gabin, Sollel called her blood of flame and created two volcanoes. The once prosperous city of Faberion now houses three active volcanoes that kept erupting molten lava. One in the palace ruins and now two in the city center.

Satisfied with her destructive creation, Sollel flew towards Nessus and willed her wings to disappear as she wrapped her arms around Hakkeran and kneeled in the front, facing the warlord.

And like a tamed creature, Sollel rested her head on Hakkeran’s shoulder as if resting, and she whispered.

“Thank you, Hakkeran.” Those words were not enough so she just hugged Hakkeran as tight as she could. “I’m strong, but without you and everyone who helped me, I don’t know if I could succeed.”

Hakkeran smiled and pressed his lips on his lady’s shoulder. “Anytime, my lady. I’ll always be there for you.”

Sollel smiled brightly and buried her face in Hakkeran’s neck. She liked the feeling of being with Hakkeran. She liked being with him. She felt like with Hakkeran by her side, no one could hurt her.

“Hakkeran?”

Hakkeran wrapped his arm around his lady’s waist and pulled her closer to him. “Hmm?”

“Stay with me, okay?” For the first time in Sollel’s life, she was scared to lose a man— her man. “Don’t you dare leave me.”

Hakkeran had to control his lips from grinning, but his face was more honest that his lips. It was red. “I already proposed, my lady. And there is no me, if there was no you. I don’t think I’ll survive without you in my life again.”

Sollel knew that Hakkeran would never leave her, but that was not enough for her anymore. Even if Hakkeran didn’t want to leave her, there was one thing that could separate them and that was death.

“We have to find Aenwyn fast.” Sollel was already ready to go to Nayale Archipelago even though it was mostly made of water. “I want to bond your life essence to mine, so you won’t have to die and undergo rebirth. You’ll be with me for as long as I breath. Though, only if you wanted to.”

Hakkeran would never say no to such blessing. “I would gladly accept, my lady. To love you and stay by your side until our very last breath, I feel like you’re spoiling me.”

“Isn’t it normal to spoil the one you love?” Sollel answered and Hakkeran stilled. He didn’t know if his queen realized what she just said, but he didn’t point it out and just hugged his queen tightly.

He will let her figure it out herself. He will wait patiently for her ‘I love you’ like how he patiently waited to see her again. There was no rush. They will always be together from now on.

Hakkeran closed his eyes and he savors the feeling of his queen on his arms. Warm and soft. Ah. I want her so much it’ll really kill me if I couldn’t have her. What was he thinking before that he’ll be happy even if his queen didn’t reciprocate his feelings? That was bullshit! Because after spending time with his lady, he got hooked and addicted.

I’m glad she chose me as her hunter that day. Hakkeran smiled at the memory. Yes. I’m glad.

Hakkeran snapped out from his reverie when Sollel pulled away from him to change her position. From kneeling on Nessus back to sitting, her back on him. She was leaning against his chest and Sollel guided his arms to wrap around her making Hakkeran smile.

When they first met in Ashmire, his queen was not talking. She seldom talks. There was no reaction from her even how much he flirts with her. But gradually, she started to change and now, she looked so comfortable while leaning on him.

We’ve come a long way. He kissed Sollel’s on the shoulder and neck before he hugged her tightly from behind.

Meanwhile, Gabin sitting on the rear was suffering in silence because he was single and had no partner. And even though there was someone he likes, his lordship was too much of a stress and now, another one added to his stress.

A madman warlord and the Queen of destruction. Good luck, self. You will need it. Gabin was hoping that the stress would not kill him, but with these two in front of him, Gabin had a feeling that he will die early this time around. And if after rebirth, he had to take care of these two again, he might choose eternal death.

♕♕♕

SOLLEL WAS BUSY teasing and kissing Hakkeran while going to Adral that she only realized the familiar scenery when they were about to enter Adral.

Looking around, Sollel couldn’t stop her eyes from watering when she realized where Adral was located.

Yther. We’re in Yther!

“This was under the empire a decade ago until I asked for it as a reward.” Hakkeran informed Sollel when he saw her silently crying. “I built Adral here to preserve the land since it had become a ruin. Lots of other races who live here helped me clean up the whole place. I know I shouldn’t have built Adral here, but I want to build a place where you’ll be comfortable with when you return.”

Sollel’s tears doubled when she heard Hakkeran’s explanation. She was silently sobbing.

“I can change the name of the town to whatever you want.” Hakkeran added. “I can’t rebuild Yther on my own, but you can use this place to rebuild your new kingdom. I heard some Ytherian are still alive and in hiding. My warriors are already looking for them. We already found some, but it’s a start, right? We won’t stop until we find the rest of the surviving Ytherian—”

Hakkeran’s words were cut off when Sollel suddenly turned to kiss him hard on the lips and hugged him tightly.

“No. We don’t need to change it. Adral is fine. I like it.” Sollel said while still crying. “Thank you, Hakken. This… what you did here, cleaning up Yther and building a prosperous town here for every race to live in… it’s amazing— you’re amazing! You’re really amazing! I’m so lucky to have you! I’m so lucky… so blessed… so happy…”

Sollel was crying as they enter the town’s gate that she didn’t see every race in town welcoming her and rejoicing her return. She was too emotional that the only thing she could was cry. And Hakkeran just hugged her, caressing her back until she calmed down.

“Where are we going…?” Sollel asked while sniffing and drying her own tears together with Hakkeran.

“To your temple,” then Hakkeran added. “To our castle.

Sollel’s eyes widened and she immediately looked ahead, anticipating and hopeful.

Seconds later, a castle in black and deep red color came into view. It sits atop the mountain where the previous temple of Ignis was located.

It looked too magnificent that it took Sollel’s breath away. It resembled the temple of Ignis in a way, but it was grander— and more exquisite. And in front of the castle was a seal— a red flame indicating that it was the Mistress of Flame’s abode.

Sollel was in awe. “That flame… didn’t the humans noticed that it’s my symbol?”

“No. They thought it’s because I wield a flaming sword.” Hakkeran answered.

Sollel’s awe was replaced by a smile. And since she was too excited to reach the castle, she jumped and summoned her flame wings to fly fast towards the castle.

Seeing his lady excited made Hakkeran chuckled.

Sollel was too fast for Nessus to catch up that she reached the castle in only a few breaths. And since Hakkeran said it was her temple, without asking for permission, Sollel just pushed the door open and enter.

Meanwhile, Hakkeran signaled Nessus to fly faster to catch up to his queens. When they arrived in front of the castle, Hakkeran immediately went inside to follow his queen, while Gabin was behind the warlord.

The two were expecting a happy Queen Sollel, but what they saw was the opposite.

It was Sollel, kneeling on the floor, her hands on her lap and her head was down like a child reflecting on bad behavior. A far cry from the Mistress of Flame, the queen of destruction who raze hell in the city of Faberion.

And in front of Queen Sollel was another queen, the Mistress of Nature, Queen Gatria.

Hakkeran who stilled at the scene didn’t know what to do or say. Because from where he was standing, he could see Queen Gatria— in front of the kneeling Sollel— looking like a mother scolding a mischievous child.

And that child was Queen Sollel, the Mistress of Flame and the queen of destruction. 

CECELIB | C.C.

Shout out to Nashy and Celine  😚

CHAPTER 66

CHAPTER 66

WHEN SOLLEL pushed the door open, her plan was to tour around the whole castle, to enjoy its design and see if it had similarities to her temple of Ignis. But her plan was forgotten when she saw who was standing near the door as if waiting for her.

A tall woman with long and wavy brown hair that was almost reaching her hips was standing meters away from her. Her prominent hazel brown eyes and gentle face. She wore a simple emerald armor and flower vines were wrapped from her wrist up to her elbow.

Sollel felt disoriented, with a little dizziness and euphoria combined. Then a shaky and slow smile appeared on her lips.

“G-Gatria…?” She knew it was Gatria, but in the back of her mind, she was afraid that it was only her imagination. She wanted to make sure that it was indeed Gatria.

Gatria’s hazel brown eyes met Sollel’s gaze. “Sollel.”

A tear fell from Sollel’s eyes when she heard that gentle, yet firm voice. “G-Gatria…!”

Without thinking, Sollel run towards Gatria, her arms ready to hug her when she saw the look Gatria was giving her making her changed her mind! Sollel knew too well what that look meant! Instead of hugging Gatria, without being told to, she kneeled in front of Gatria with her head down. “I’m so sorry…”

Before Gatria could voice out her reason for looking pissed at Sollel, Treven’s friend, the warlord who helped saved her in the Hallowed Valley entered the castle and he looked stunned seeing Sollel kneeling.

Gatria felt indebted to warlord Hakkeran for saving her, but she already healed his wound that could’ve killed him, so in her mind, they’re even.

Ergo, Gatria focused her eyes on Sollel who was still kneeling on the floor, head down.

“Do you even know why I’m mad, Sollel?” Gatria sounded like a mother scolding a mischievous child.

Sollel immediately nodded. “I trusted humans and in return, we were betrayed. It was my decision to bless them with elemental essence and it was all my fault. I’m so sorry, Gatria. I didn’t mean to hurt us. I didn’t mean for this to happen. I’m so sorry… I’m really sorry…”

Sollel looked up to take a peek on Gatria’s reaction after her apology. Usually, Gatria always became soft after a heartfelt apology, but to her distressed, Gatria was still looking at her as if she did a horrible thing.

Sollel was ransacking her brain, thinking of things that she did that might’ve angered Gatria before, but she really couldn’t think of anything other than the human’s betrayal!

She and Aenwyn always caused mischief before, bur that was it. She didn’t remember angering Gatria before they were betrayed.

Sollel pouted as she looked up at Gatria. “I will accept any punishment…”

Gatria clicked her tongue and Sollel visibly flinched at that, as if scared by the sound of a tongue clicking. “You’re apologizing, but you have no idea what you’re apologizing for— as usual. Classic Sollel as always.”

Sollel bit her lip as she asked. “What… What did I do wrong then?” Sollel showed Gatria her pitiful face. “Could you please enlighten me, Gatria?”

Gatria glared at Sollel. “Trees have eyes, Sollel!” Gatria snapped. “How could you be so shameless?!”

Sollel flinched at Gatria’s angry voice before she meekly asked since she didn’t understand Gatria completely. “What do you mean? Trees has leaves and limbs, but I’m sure they have no eyes, Gatria.”

Gatria let out a loud breath as if she was so done with Sollel. “To me, trees has eyes.”

“Oh. Yes. I know that.” Sollel tilted her head to the side and gave Gatria a quizzical look. “But what does it have to do with me?”

“It has everything to do with you!” Gatria’s calm demeanor disappeared and pointed Hakkeran who was just silent in the corner. “I saw you kissing him so intimately! What were you thinking, huh, Sollel?! You may be the first blessed queen, but you are the youngest!”

Sollel’s lips parted open in shock. “That’s… all?”

“What do you mean that’s all?!” Gatria was so close to exploding, only Sollel and Aenwyn could make her lose her composure like this.

“I thought you’re mad at me because of what happened back then…”

“Why would I be?” Gatria went back to being calm. “It has been a long time and it was not your fault. But,” Gatria became strict again, “you are our youngest, Sollel. I will not allow you to be intimate with him,” she pointed Hakkeran who had wide eyes in shock and disagreement. “You’re still a child!”

Gabin, who was listening, felt pity towards his lordship. Meanwhile, Treven looked like he was about to burst out laughing.

Sollel had always been hard headed, reckless and brave, but when it comes to Gatria and Astrid, Sollel knew that her hard headedness, recklessness and bravery wouldn’t do her any good so she immediately nodded, not even thinking of opposing Gatria.

“Good.” Gatria looked pleased at Sollel’s answer. “Come on. Stand up.” Gatria offered her hand at Sollel. “The room next to mine has been already ready for you. You should rest after unleashing your wrath like that. We will talk tomorrow.”

Like a child, Sollel accepted Gatria’s hand and let Gatria lead the way while Sollel kept glancing back at Hakkeran who was looking as if he wanted to stop her at the same time he didn’t want to antagonize Queen Gatria in doing so.

But looked like Hakkeran decided to antagonize Gatria because he started running after them, but Sollel vigorously shook her head at Hakkeran, stopping him.

Hakkeran shoulders fell and whispered as he stopped in the middle of the hallway, “there goes my happiness tonight.”

Gabin patted his lordship’s shoulder. “Better luck next time, Your Excellency.”

“Do you want to die early, Gabin?”

Gabin immediately bowed his head. “Lord Xeke sent a message, he wanted me to tell you that he’s on his way here with Princess Cira. I also sent word to the Dwarven Kingdom to send Lady Naya here. And that is all— I will take my leave now, Your Excellency.”

At that moment, Hakkeran couldn’t care less what Gabin said. He was just looking at his lady’s retreating back.

My lady…

Hakkeran felt so down that he went to his room with a heavy feeling. He was not tired, but he felt like he was.

Hakkeran sighed as he entered his bedroom and continued to the next chamber where a small circular bathing pool was made for him to bath.

Taking off his clothes, he entered the pool and leaned on the edge while staring blankly at the ceiling, sighing heavily from time to time.

I should have sent Queen Gatria away. Yes. I should’ve done that. Maybe he should call General Kar. He was sure that Queen Gatria would throw a fit knowing how angry she was with the general, but Hakkeran didn’t care if it meant being alone with his lady.

Nodding to himself, Hakkeran continued bathing as he thinks of more ideas to get rid of Queen Gatria.

♕♕♕

CONCURRENTLY, Sollel was taken to a room next to Gatria’s. Gatria didn’t unhand Sollel until they were inside the room.

“Where’s Zassia and Grath, by the way?” Sollel asked, knowing how much they helped to get Gatria here.

“Zassia and Grath were both exhausted after helping me escape so I let them sleep in their own respective rooms, so don’t bother them.” Gatria said and motioned her hand at the bed where Sollel silently sat.

“I know you’re thinking that I’m bad for stopping you from being with that warlord, but,” Gatria sat on the bed beside Sollel and held Sollel’s hand. “It’s not that I’m against your relationship with him, I just want you to be fully sure of his character and intention before you become intimate with him. I’ve already been in your shoes, Sollel, and I regretted my actions greatly. I’m only looking out for you.”

“I know…” Sollel replied and smiled.

Gatria smiled at Sollel before she gathered Sollel in her arms. “I’m happy to see you again, Sollel. It’s been so long. Thank you for getting me out of there. Zassia and Grath told me about your travels. I can’t thank you enough.” Gatria hugged Sollel tightly when she remembered her guilt and resentment. Sollel, it’s not your fault. It’s their fault for betraying us. You didn’t do anything wrong, okay? So don’t blame yourself.“

Sollel nodded and hugged Gatria back before she rested her head on Gatria’s shoulder, feeling Gatria’s warmth. “I missed you.”

That put a warm smile on Gatria’s lips. “I missed you too, Sollel. I missed everyone.”

Sollel smiled when she smelled Gatria’s familiar scent. “You still smell like freshly bloom flower.”

“And you smell like burnt ashes,” Gatria joked and flicked Sollel’s ears. “Take a bath and then rest. We will talk tomorrow.”

Sollel nodded obediently. “I will. I only used a little bit of my strength, but I’m indeed a bit tired. I think my body is still not used to taxing activities.”

If Gatria would dissect Sollel’s words, she would know that Sollel was not really telling the truth and just acting obediently. But when it comes to Sollel and Aenwyn, Gatria had always been soft when they act obedient and docile.

“I’ll bet you’re tired.” Gatria smiled while combing Sollel’s bright red hair. “I saw the hell you raze in that city. They deserved it.”

Sollel match Gatria’s smile. “Did you like it?”

Gatria nodded. “Very. Though I think you still showed mercy to those humans.”

Sollel lost her smile. “I hate them. I really hate them so much. I know they showed no mercy on our people, but thinking that my flames would kill a child, even if it was human, it hurts, Gatria.” Sollel played with the flower vine on Gatria’s wrist. “I want revenge, I want to destroy them all, but killing children didn’t sit well with me even how much I steeled myself… I’m not that heartless after all.”

“Because you’re not like them, Sollel.” Gatria could feel Sollel’s pain. “You have always been soft to humans. You adored them. You played with their children. I don’t like that you showed them mercy, but I am not going to force you to do a thing that will hurt you.”

If you couldn’t, I will. Gatria thought as she sees Sollel struggle and hesitate. “But to me, I have no mercy for them. Those children will grow up just like them— greedy and selfish. They’re destroying Azitera as we speak because of their greediness. Cutting the trees, destroying the forests, poisoning the water sources with their filth, polluting the air. If left to their own devices, they will kill Azitera and I can’t allow that. They are not the only race in this world. Wiping them off Azitera will do everyone good and that is our responsibility, Sollel.”

Sollel nodded. “I know.”

“Keep in mind, Sollel, that compassion to your enemies is cruelty to yourself.”

Sollel nodded earnestly at Gatria.

Gatria took a deep breath and cupped Sollel’s face for their eyes to meet. “You may be the Queen of destruction, the terrifying Mistress of Flame, but really, you are the kindest of us four. You’re carefree, caring, and loving, and because of that, I want to protect you.”

That made Sollel’s expression softened. “You don’t have to worry about me, Gatria. I have someone who will not hesitate to kill anyone who would use and hurt me.”

Gatria raised her eyebrow. “That warlord?”

Sollel nodded. “He spent his three lifetimes planning to get me out and keep me safe and happy. He sacrificed and endured so much for me— without asking anything in return. My warlord will kill anyone who dared insult me, hurt me and used me. My happiness is his happiness. My comfort is his comfort. So you don’t have to worry about me anymore, Gatria. Because he’s much, much more overprotective than you when it comes to me.”

“You love him?”

“I don’t know,” Sollel cheeks were tinted red. “I like him though. I like him a lot.”

“You say you only like him, but you kissed him like there is no tomorrow. You even want to bind him to you.”

“Gatria!” Sollel narrowed her eyes on Gatria. “How could you spy on us!”

“Trees has eyes.” Gatria simple answered.

Sollel pouted. “Then tell them to close their eyes.”

“I can’t. They’re always open.”

“Argh! Gatria!” Sollel was like a child, stomping her feet, and that was the first time she did it ever since she escaped her moonrite prison. Gatria’s presence made her feel like she could act like how she always act in the past. “Don’t spy on me and Hakkeran.”

“I didn’t mean to.” Gatria was as calm as ever.

“Of course, you mean it!”

Gatria look away subtly. “I would never.”

“I don’t believe you.”

Gatria shrugged. “I can’t do anything about it then.”

“Gatria!”

“Stop shouting, Sollel.”

Sollel immediately shut up, but she was glaring her eyes at Gatria.

“And stop glaring.”

Immediately, Sollel stopped glaring and looked down, making Gatria smile inwardly. Sollel may be hard headed and always making trouble, but she always listens to her. Thought she’ll only listen for a while and then she will make trouble again.

“You should rest now,” Gatria stood up and kissed the top of Sollel’s head. “But you should bath first.”

Sollel nodded and just watched Gatria leave her room. Moments later after Gatria left, Sollel got up and went to the inner chamber in her room where the bath was.

While soaking in the bath, Sollel sigh in pure bliss as the water wrapped around her body. It felt good to clean herself. Though her full power was back which meant she could clean herself with her flame, still, nothing beats water when it comes to cleaning.

But as blissful as bathing was, Sollel didn’t take her time. She cleaned her self fast and then left the bath and dried herself using her essence.

Now walking naked in the room, Sollel opened the closet to look for clothes and she was surprised to see a lot of red dress inside, and the size was clearly tailored for her.

Sollel could only think that this was Hakkeran’s doing, so with a smile, she picked the most revealing sheath red dress in the closet and wore it.

After making herself beautiful, Sollel sat on the edge of the bed and closed her eyes to feel her essence in Solaris ’. After feeling where it was, she stayed in her room and only stepped out when the castle became silent.

Like a naughty child, Sollel sneak out of her room and run towards where Solaris was. She was running with bated breath, praying that Gatria wouldn’t catch her.

Relief flooded her when she finally reached the room where her Solaris was and Gatria was nowhere to be seen. Sollel immediately pushed the door open and enter without consent.

“Hakke—” Sollel stilled and her eyes widened when she saw the man who had her Solaris in his wrist in the middle of the room— wet and naked.

Though it was not only Sollel who was shocked, Hakkeran was just as shocked as she was bur he didn’t move to cover his nakedness.

“Sollel…” Hakkeran’s lips parted seeing the dress his lady was wearing. “What… What are you doing here? I thought Queen Gatria didn’t want you to be close to me.”

“Yes,” Sollel cleared her throat to wake herself up, but her eyes remained between Hakkeran’s thighs. “She didn’t want us to be intimate, so,” Sollel licked her lips, “um, I sneaked out.”

Hakkeran couldn’t help smiling at that. “What a naughty queen you are, my lady.”

“Yes… I am.”

Hakkeran shamelessly walked towards his lady who seemed rooted in place and just looking at his thing between his thighs and stood in front of her. “Are you here to continue what we started in the spiral staircase?”

Sollel nodded.

“Look at me, my lady.”

Sollel finally looked up at Hakkeran. “Hmm?”

“Can I express my love for you in my bed now?” Hakkeran asked and Sollel swore, her throat went dry. “You said you’ll accept it, but I still want to hear it again. Would you, please, tell me to take you to bed and express my love for you?”

Sollel had always been straightforward, but Hakkeran was still stunned when her dress caught fire and burned, leaving Sollel naked in all her glory.

“Is this enough to answer your question?”

Hakkeran’s mind went blank seeing his lady’s nakedness. It was too much for him who waited three lifetimes for this— too much that he didn’t realize that he pushed his queen against the wall and devoured her lips as if he wanted to own them. Hakkeran only realized it when he felt the same hunger from his lady who was literally burning hot.

The two were too lost from each other’s kissed and caressed that they didn’t even know how they ended up from against the wall to the large bed in the room.

They were too enamored with each other, too hungry for one another, too focused to express their love for each other that they didn’t realize nor care that the whole room was literally in flames.

CECELIB | C.C.

SHOUT OUT TO TIFFANY

, KEIRA

AND MICAY 💕

SHOUT OUT ALSO TO MAJUURI AND MITCH SOTELO. LOVE YOUR ARTS AS ALWAYS ❤️

CHAPTER 67

CHAPTER 67

SOLLEL BIT HER lower lip hard that it bled just to stop herself from making a sound when Hakkeran’s lips left hers and took her nipple in his mouth. The control she had to exercise not to open her mouth and moan loudly was making her body burned — literally.

Sollel was breathing hard as her toes curled when she felt Hakkeran’s fingers found her other nipple and fondled it while his tongue and mouth was on the other, making Sollel head spin.

Holy deities! It was a good thing that Hakkeran had Solaris, because if he didn’t, Sollel’s body heat would’ve scald his skin and burned him alive. Sollel’s blood flame was boiling, reacting to Sollel’s desire and at that moment, it wanted to burst out just because Hakkeran was on top of her.

Arching her body in desire, Sollel wanted to cradle Hakkeran’s head and pushed it against her breast like she wanted to express her desire for more, but Sollel had to put her hands over her mouth to not make a sound when Hakkeran rolled his tongue around her nipple.

Sollel gasped at the blinding pleasure as the thing between her thighs clenched in pleasure. And with another flicker of Hakkeran’s tongue on her nipple, her toes curled desperately as her body arched again. It felt too good that Sollel had to bite her hand now to not make a sound

. Unbeknownst to Sollel, her silence was bothering Hakkeran. He thought he was not doing it right, that he was not pleasuring his queen enough so he looked up to check and Hakkeran didn’t know how to describe what he saw.

His queen was clearly enjoying herself, he could see pleasure on her face, but she had her mouth covered with her hands, as if afraid to make a sound.

Ah, so adorable.

Hakkeran moved to level his face with his lady and kissed the back of her hands that was covering her mouth.

“My lady, what are you doing?”

A lava-like liquid swirled inside Sollel’s half-hooded eyes as she looked at him. “Moan… c-can’t moan.” His queen looked like she was enduring too much. “Don’t want to make a sound. Gatria will kill you.”

Hakkeran couldn’t help smiling wryly at that. Queen Gatria will surely kill him if she found out.

Hakkeran kissed the back of Sollel’s hand again and her forehead. “My lady, my room is enchanted by the King of Druids. No one can hear us from outside and it can withstand your flame because Solaris had a hobby of sitting itself on fire when bored. So, feel free to make a sound, moan loudly and scream my name. You can even burn the whole room and it’ll be just fine.”

Hearing that, the relief Sollel felt was so palpable that her hands went limp on the bed. “I was so nervous…”

That made Hakkeran chuckled and place a soft kiss on Sollel’s lips and jaw. “Is Queen Gatria really that scary?”

“Yes.” Sollel answered without an ounce of hesitation. “Very. If she found out, she’ll kill you for sure even though I’m the one who started this.”

Hakkeran’s lips travelled down to Sollel’s neck while he his left leg was parting his lady’s legs. “I don’t mind dying for you, my Krahika.”

“I’ll mind—” Sollel’s words were cut off when she felt Hakkeran’s leg pressing on her center and the sensation was making her wet. “Hakken…”

Oh, deity! Just that and I’m already throbbing. She never liked a man before and she had never been intimate with one. Though she knew what a man would do to a woman to pleasure her as per her studies with the elders before, but to experience it first hand, Sollel had a feeling that she’ll want to do this more with Hakkeran.

The desire building inside her just because Hakkeran’s leg was pressing against her, it was making Sollel bit her lips and not to stop her moans but to stop herself from actually rubbing herself against Hakkeran.

I can’t be that shameless… Maybe his legs just accidentally touched mine . Sollel was forcing herself not to react too much. Hakkeran might be turned off if she acted on her own without waiting for him.

Unbeknownst to Sollel, Hakkeran’s movement was deliberate. He really wanted to press his leg in the center of his lady’s thigh to see her reaction, and seeing her struggling over something he couldn’t point out, he was feeling bothered.

He had experience, but it was before his life became monotonous, but after his rebirth again, when he met his queen, he had none whatsoever. He even seldom used his hand to pleasure himself because every time he did, he would think of his lady and he would feel bad afterwards because he felt like he was violating his queen who had no idea that he was lusting over her and imagining her pleasuring him.

In terms of experience, he was indeed lacking, so he was observing his queen as he moved to make sure that he was doing alright. He was taking it slow because he wanted to make sure that he could make his queen contented and satisfied.

And seeing her struggle over something, Hakkeran forced himself to just swallow his pride and asked. “My lady?”

Sollel was biting her lips. “Hmm?”

“Am I… doing alright?” Hakkeran cleared his throat and buried his face in his queen’s neck. “Honestly, I lack sexual experience and I wanted to do it right with you. So, if you want something, just tell me. I want to pleasure you right, my lady.”

Sollel wanted to smack Hakkeran’s head. She was just so aroused earlier, but after hearing Hakkeran, she now felt like crying! Her emotion was all over the place because of this man!

Mustering her bravery and straightforwardness, Sollel wrapped her arms around Hakkeran’s back and caressed his hair. “Touch me. Lick me. Enter me. And make love to me. Put your tongue and fingers to work and then pound me hard. That’s what I want, Hakken.”

In front of Gatria earlier, when she told her she liked Hakken, she was blushing. But in front of Hakkeran, even after confessing what she wanted, she didn’t feel any embarrassment or discomfort. What she felt was comfort and intimacy that she had never felt before.

“The things that you want,” Hakkeran finally pulled away from Sollel’s neck and kneeled straight on the bed, in between her parted thighs. His eyes were on her and they were promising pleasure as he licked his lips, “I’ll give you more.”

Hakkeran was so handsome and scorching hot that Sollel couldn’t help biting her own lips. Why do I find him more handsome as days passed? I’m really in danger.

Sollel’s thoughts were interrupted when Hakkeran leaned down and bit her nipple with his lips, then he sucked it inside her mouth. Rolling his tongue around it, teasing it and lapping it, making Sollel breath heavily.

With his mouth on her bosom, Sollel’s lips were parted open, but when Hakkeran put his other hand and fingers to work in between her parted thighs, a loud gasp escaped her mouth and she writhed underneath him in pleasure.

“H-Hakken…” Sollel gripped a handful of Hakkeran’s hair who was sucking her nipple and tugging it lightly. “W-what are you—” her words were cut off and another gasp escaped her mouth when a finger rolled around her wet and throbbing love button.

Sollel let go of Hakkeran’s head, afraid that she might hurt him when he started teasing her wet love button with his fingers, even using his palm to feel and rub her while his fingers were teasing her entrance.

“Hakken…” unconsciously, Sollel parted her legs wider for Hakkeran as her panting continued. “More… touch me me more, Hakken.” Sollel’s voice was so sultry that Hakkeran couldn’t control his manhood from hardening even more. “Hakken… Hakken…”

Sollel’s voice sounded like she was begging Hakkeran to fuck her already because she couldn’t wait any longer, but what Sollel wanted was engraved in Hakkeran’s mind.

He knew this was not enough. He knew his queen deserves more.

Leaving his lady’s bosom, Hakkeran’s lips moved downward, traveling on his lady’s flat stomach, down to her belly until his mouth found her wet folds.

The loud moan that escaped from Sollel’s mouth when she felt Hakkeran’s lips on her labia was so loud that if the room was not enchanted, even the people outside the castle could hear her.

And that moan was followed by another, more lustful and longer moans. More erotic. More sensual. More craving. Her moans of pleasure and sighs of satisfaction filled the whole room while Hakkeran’s tongue, lips and fingers were at the center of her womanhood. Licking and lapping her. Sucking her love button. Teasing the small crack in the center of her clit.

“Ah…! Hakkeran!” Sollel’s other hand that was not gripping the bed frame grabbed unto Hakkeran’s hair and pushed him down to her throbbing sex. “M-more… Fuck me with your whole mouth, Hakken— ah!”

Sollel was literally gasping for air as pleasure ripped through her whole body, making her arched and begged without inhibition. “Ahh! Hakkeran… Hakken!”

Sollel didn’t know where to turn her head until her head fell back when Hakkeran hit her erogenous spot, numbing her whole mind. “Oh, my deity! Harder… Faster…! Yes! Like that… Roll your tongue— oh, yes! Yes! Ahh! Yes! So good! Oh, Hakkeran! Suck it. Suck it— ahh! Yes! Yes! Ohh— yes! That…!”

Sollel writhe in pleasure as she mindlessly raised her hips to meet Hakkeran’s tongue and mouth that was fucking her wet, slippery and throbbing sex.

Her carnal pleasure and desire were exploding inside her body that her blood of flame was reacting violently, turning her bright red hair into blazing flame and creating flames on her skin. But that didn’t matter to Hakkeran who was wearing Solaris and who was enjoying himself tasting his queen.

And when the flames suddenly erupted on Sollel’s skin, Hakkeran even gripped his queen’s legs and wrapped it around his neck, uncaring if Sollel was literally on fire and dedicated his tongue and mouth into pleasuring his queen whose moans were so addicting to hear that he wanted to hear it all night.

And the flame Sollel’s spread like wildfire in the enchanted roam, covering the bed, the floor up to the ceiling, but the two couldn’t care less and continued their love making.

Sollel was holding Hakkeran’s head down while Hakkeran lifted his queen’s ass while his face was buried in the center of her thighs and her legs were wrapped around his neck. And as Sollel writhe and beg for Hakkeran to go faster, a finger slid insider her and the intense pleasure make her eyes rolled back.

“Ahh…!”

Hakkeran’s finger inside her moved in and out and another scream escaped her mouth as she felt an explosion of pleasure inside her.

“Hakken…! Hakken…!”

Together with one finger, another finger joined in and another, enough to stretch Sollel’s entrance and make her go crazy with lust even after coming that she was mindlessly scratching her nails on Hakkeran’s back as she ordered Hakkeran to move his fingers faster.

But Hakkeran, who was already close to snapping out of his control, had other plans and without warning, he just pulled his fingers out of his queen’s warm mound and replaced it with his erect, hard and long manhood.

“Ahh…!” Sollel screamed as her eyes rolled up and her body arched. “Hakken…”

Hakkeran groaned as he buried his hard as a rock manhood deep and hard that it made Sollel scream her warlord’s name.

“Hakkeran…!”

The sudden hard and deep penetration of a long, hard and big rod inside Sollel’s dripping wet sex should have hurt her, but before she could feel the pain from the sudden intrusion and laceration, her blood of flame immediately went to work, healing her inside that she didn’t feel even a drop of pain.

“Fuck…!” Hakkeran clenched his jaw and hanged his queen’s legs over his shoulder as he buried himself deep inside his queen, as if he wanted to leave a mark inside her. “Sollel… ahh!”

The flame inside the room flared as Sollel’s reaction to Hakkeran calling her by her name as he owned her.

His voice was deep, baritone, erotic, sensual and hot that she wanted to hear him moan more, so she clenched her womanhood and Hakkeran hissed.

“Ahh!” Hakkeran gripped Sollel’s legs as if trying to control himself. “Ahh… Fuck! “ But he just snapped and started pounding him hard. “Fuck! Sollel…! Ahh! Sollel…”

Sollel gripped her own hair. Hearing her name from sexually delirious Hakkeran was making her body burned with excitement and lust.

“Sollel… Sollel…” Hakkeran was almost chanting Sollel’s name as he pounded her hard and fast and deep that Sollel’s body was shaking at the impact.

And as hard as Hakkeran’s manhood were pounding in and out of her, as if he had lost all her control and just wanted to thrust his shaft inside her, all Sollel could feel was intense pleasure and consuming lust that drove Sollel to use her power on Hakkeran.

Knowing that Hakkeran wouldn’t be hurt by her flame, she summoned a bolt of flame in her hand, then she used it to as a lasso, wrapped it around Hakkeran’s neck and pulled him closer until their lips mashed together and they devoured one another.

“Hakken…! Hakkeran— ahh! Hakken!” That was all Sollel could say as their body intimately became one and they both move to pleasure one another.

With their lips kissing each other hungrily and their hands all over each other’s body, Sollel and Hakkeran were lost in their own world inside Hakkeran’s enchanted bed chamber.

Sollel didn’t even know how many times she had screamed Hakkeran’s name and how long and loud her moans were, all she knew was that Hakkeran’s tongue, mouth, hands, fingers and well endowed manhood were pure bliss— her very own paradise.

And in the midst of Hakkeran’s flame covered room— after Hakkeran buried all his seed inside his queen as he came hard— Sollel used her strength to change their position.

Her, on top, while her warlord was underneath her.

And like how Hakkeran gave his all to pleasure Sollel, Sollel did the same and returned the pleasure tenfold as she put him in her mouth and rode him hard afterwards.

It was a long night for everybody, but a short one to Hakkeran and Sollel who spend it making love in different positions, enjoying and tasting each other’s body in the midst of flame-filled room.

Hakkeran and Sollel didn’t care. As long as they could share and express their love for one another, nothing matters. Not even Queen Gatria’s wrath.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 68

CHAPTER 68

AFTER MAKING LOVE for the whole night, anyone would be tried, but not Sollel and Hakkeran. They were both powerful beings that even after making love again and again and again the whole night, they still had strength and energy left to talk while waiting for the sun to rise.

They actually didn’t stop because they wanted to, but because the enchantment in the room was close to being destroyed. Another hour of burning flames inside and it’ll really burn the whole castle.

“We got time now,” said Sollel while lying on top of Hakkeran, the side of her head was resting on his chest, her hair had now turned to normal and Hakkeran was playing with it while her fingers were playing with his adorable nipple. Both were naked. “Explain everything to me, Hakkeran. I want to know everything you did for me.”

“I honestly don’t want to, my lady.” Hakkeran answered as he combed Sollel’s hair. “I feel like I’m counting what I did for you and it makes me uncomfortable.”

Sollel raised her head and rested her chin on Hakkeran chest as she looked at him. “You’re no fun sometimes, Hakken. Do you know that?”

Hakkeran always hear that from Treven so he nodded.

Sollel flicked Hakkeran’s nipple. “Just tell me. I want to know every single detail, okay?”

Knowing that his queen will not stop, Hakkeran finally gave in. “Well… I already told you half of it, so I’ll try to keep it simple and short.” He paused for a second then continued. “After I learned that you are still alive and imprisoned, I went… crazy. A little.”

Sollel frowned. “Crazy, how?”

“I hated what humans did to you, how they betrayed you and every time I see one, I would slaughter them without mercy. That’s how much I hated them for taking you away to deity knows where. I couldn’t stand being in the same place with them that I chose to live underground with Gabin. But I know I can’t stay like that, I know I have to look for you and free you if you were imprisoned — I have to control my hatred for them, but I didn’t know how. They took my beloved away and every time I’m near them… I just, I don’t know, I always lose my wits.”

Sollel’s chest throbbed hearing Hakkeran’s story. She already liked Hakkeran… she’s enamored with him, but now, she appreciated him more and she’s falling deeper.

Sollel sighed at what she was feeling and just bit Hakkeran’s nipple.

“Sollel!”

Sollel chuckled and looked at Hakkeran. “You should really stop calling me ‘my lady’ and just call me Sollel. I like it more.”

“That’ll be very difficult on my part, my lady.”

Sollel rolled her eyes. “Go on. Continue your story.”

Hakkeran smiled at his sulking queen before continuing while caressing Sollel’s hair. “I felt useless at first. Like there’s nothing I could do. I blamed my father for chaining me and caging me when he found out that my heart chose you, because of that, I wasn’t able to help when humans were hurting you and I hated myself for that.”

“It wasn’t your fault, Hakken.” Sollel couldn’t help interjecting because she didn’t like hearing Hakkeran blaming himself for her mistakes.

“Even so, I feel like as someone who loves you, I should have been there. I, um, I felt like I’m not worthy enough for you. And I don’t want to be unworthy of you. So, I pulled myself together and I made a plan with Gabin. A plan that could let me walk amongst humans without wanting to slaughter them because I know that to find your prison and free you, I have to play nice with humans. I have to enter their society and infiltrate them.

“Before I die, I already planned everything I will do in my next life, to avoid mistakes that could jeopardize my mission to find you and free you. And so, after my death and rebirth, when I reach adulthood, I used my arcane weapon’s ability, but not only to split myself in half, but also to control my attitude. Gabin was so against it,” Hakkeran smiled at the memory of his trusted aide throwing a fit because it was dangerous. “It was dangerous because it was the first time for me to split myself and control the attitude and emotions the half of me would feel. I put all my good emotions on Hakken so he could roam Azitera in my stead without causing bloodshed, while I put all my hatred in humans and negative attitude on Hakkeran and he was the one who stayed underground.”

“What…?” That surprised Sollel. “Hakkeran was underground?” Sollel knew that the two were the same person, but hearing that Hakkeran was not as free as Hakken, it made her chest ache. She adored both Hakken and Hakkeran. “But why? I thought he had been with the humans.”

Hakkeran shook his head. “That happened after my next rebirth. His hatred was too strong that he had to stay underground while Hakken worked outside. Talking to every race, looking and gathering of information about the queens— looking for you. Hakken was the one who gathered all the information I needed to make our plan work, while Gabin took care of Hakkeran underground. I spent a whole lifetime gathering information as Hakken, from the Yther’s siege to the present. From figuring out who’s the ally and who’s the foe. I didn’t let a single information escaped me. I’d like to believe that it was a very productive lifetime.”

“And then you died again…” It really didn’t sit well with Sollel that Hakkeran kept dying. Even though there was a rebirth, still, she hated the thought that Hakkeran died.

“Yes. On my next rebirth, I split myself in half again and used all the information Hakken gathered in my past life to plan our next move. It pains me that I can’t free you immediately after knowing where you were, but I know that freeing you would mean nothing if I didn’t plan your escape well.”

Sollel’s heart raced. Hakkeran really did everything for me. He has no other life than me. It pained her and made her happy at the same time. Hakkeran was too focused on her that he forgot to focus on himself and the other people around him.

“At that time, I already have the information I needed, but it was still not enough. So I continued investigating the royal family of the four powerful human kingdoms, especially the Infernal Empire. At that point in time, Hakkeran started to show calmness while being in close proximity with humans. When the half of me— Hakken— asked Hakkeran why he was able to control himself, unlike when we were one, Hakkeran told him that it was his love for you that was controlling his anger towards humans. It was his love for you that clear his mind when all he wanted was to kill them all. But still, Hakken and Gabin still couldn’t trust Hakkeran, so Hakkeran was sent to map out the routes that you might take to save the other queens once you’re free.

“But we don’t know who you will save first, so Hakkeran investigated and mapped out the route to sky castle and how to enter the floating city. Then he sailed through the seas to find the safest route to Aqua Terra where Queen Aenwyn is. Then he last mapped out the route to Hallowed Valley. Unfortunately, he died in the Shivering Valley, just after finishing its map. So we don’t know the best way to cross the Desolate land Valley, hence the danger you encountered when crossing it.”

If Sollel was just listening earlier and would interject from time to time, now, she was speechless and was just gaping at Hakkeran who was telling his story as if it was not a big deal!

“I know that you will not be truly happy without the other queens, so we gathered all the information we could find about their whereabouts as well. While Hakkeran was mapping the routes, me as Hakken was working with the Harpies and mapping out the city of Faberion. Looking for a way in, the best way to escape and of course, to find where they imprisoned you.

“Unfortunately, we couldn’t find the exact location until I died.” Hakkeran clenched his jaw at the memory of his frustration when he couldn’t find his queen’s moonrite prison. “So we made another plan. Before I died, I planned my rebirth with Gabin and I conspired with Gabin’s sister, Gabriella, also a descendant of Sappher to give birth to me as the second prince of  Infernal Empire’s son— yes, as per our plan to deeply infiltrate the empire, Gabriella, romanced and married the second prince. Even the royal family was seduced by the idea of having a descendant of Sappher as their daughter-in-law.”

“Where’s Gabriella now?” Even thought it was all planned, Gabriella was still Hakkeran’s mother and Sollel wanted to show her respect.

“She’s in the town. She didn’t like living here in the castle.” Hakkeran smiled. “Without Gabriella, I don’t think I’ll be able to free you, my lady.”

Sollel nodded. “I believe so too, so let’s go and meet her tomorrow, or later. She’s still your mother after all— wait,” a thought came to mind, “if Gabriella was your mother and she’s Gabin’s sister, does that make you Gabin’s nephew?”

Hakkeran grimaced at that. “Please, don’t, my lady.”

Sollel chuckled at that seeing how uncomfortable Hakkeran looked. “But you really are his nephew!” She kept teasing him. “I mean, Gabin is the same age as you now, but the fact still remain that you are his nephew.”

“My lady, please…” Hakkeran begged.

Sollel laughed and kissed Hakkeran on the chin. “I’m just teasing you. You may continue.”

Hakkeran sighed in relief. “On my third rebirth, this life that I have now, I grew up as a son of the second prince. I could’ve chosen the crown prince at that time, now Emperor Gabrien, but I don’t want eyes on me. If I became a crown prince, my movement will be limited. And also because I have another reason — Solaris.

“We found out that Solaris, the Mistress of Flame’s weapon was under the Infernal Empire’s royal family. They took it after the siege. It was always gifted to the second prince of the generation because the second prince always serves as the sword of the empire– the empire’s warlord. For some reason, Solaris at that time was just a normal sword. When the second prince died and it was passed on to me, I think Solaris likes me because it started burning brightly.”

Sollel knew why. “ Solaris woke up and reacted to your strong love and devotion to me.“

Hakkeran blushed, “is that so?”

“Hmm.” Sollel nodded. “I sealed it before I lost my consciousness in the siege, afraid that it might cause trouble to everyone in Azitera.”

Hakkeran understood where Sollel was coming from because solaris was indeed a troublesome war blade. Spouting flame and burning anyone it hated and didn’t like.

“After acquiring Solaris, Hakkeran started talking to every race as planned— I say talk, but Hakkeran actually threatened every race, even the most loyal ones to the Yther’s Queens to help look for firestone to get ready for your return, because he was impatient as always. Unfortunately, even after all that help, we couldn’t find a single firestone so our plan changed again.

“Hakkeran went to ask for the Phoenix’s race help— because of their ability to transform into a human form and also because of their ability to feel and pin point a firestone location. Even knowing that they were loyal to the Yther’s queens, Hakkeran carried Solaris t o threaten them and put them in the four kingdom’s armies to infiltrate their ranks.

“After Barrin infiltrated the empire’s army for so many years and reach a high rank, and after I used all the connection I have as the second prince’s son, we finally found your moonrite prison that was well hidden and only few people knew. And that’s where it all began,” Hakkeran took a deep breath. “I used my arcane weapon’s ability again after I pulled you out of your prison. Hakken’s job was supposed to look out for you from afar while I will continue the façade we made. We left you alone and didn’t help you because we want you to cause trouble. We want you to distract every kingdom while we move to find the Firestones that could bring all your strength back.

Hakkeran wrapped his arms around his lady’s naked body and kissed the top of his queen’s head. “The rest was history after that. I did deceive you in a way, and I’m sorry for that, but at that time, I was only thinking what was best for you, my lady. I know it was bad of me and I regretted it. I’m so sorry, my lady. I never really thought that I will be part of your life like this.

“I was afraid to be close to you because I thought my feeling will never be reciprocated. I was also afraid that you might hate me for lying to you after you’ve been betrayed. And I also thought that I’m not worthy of you. I mean, I’m just a lowly warrior and you’re a queen— the Mistress of Flame.”

Sollel’s eyebrow furrowed, against at what Hakkeran said. “There’s nothing lowly about you, Hakken. Nothing.”

“For me, I am lowly.” Hakken stated firmed. “You’re a star fitting for someone’s sky, not mine— someone worthy, someone amazing and someone who could give you the whole world. I was already contented by just watching you in the sky, shining so brightly and blindingly. The only reason why I planned and did all this was to put you back in the sky, where you belong, so I could watch you shine brightly again.

“That was enough for me. So to hold you like this, to be intimate with you, to be able to express my love to you in so many ways and for you to accept them wholeheartedly… I’m dumbfounded, my lady. Even now, as I embraced you, I still can’t believe that the woman I’m so in love with and my Krahika who I worship is now in my arms, embracing me and giving me the honor to be hers.”

Sollel didn’t know why she was crying as she listened to Hakkeran. She could feel his every word. His sincerity. His unconditional love. And the length he would willingly go through for her.

And she was overcome with emotion that she started crying. And when she was finally able to control herself, she sat up and sits just above his groin and stared intently at her warlord while still naked in all her glory.

Looking at him staring back at her, Sollel could see the Hakken she liked and the Hakkeran she adored.

“You’re so annoying!” Sollel flicked the tip of Hakkeran’s nose. “What do you mean star in someone else’s sky? Do you want me to burn you to crisp, Hakken? We made love the whole night, is that not enough?” Sollel narrowed her eyes on her warlord. “And why would I settle to be just a lowly star in someone else’s sky when I know that I’m your whole sky? I’m a queen, Hakkeran. I won’t settle for anything less. I know my worth. And I’ve already met my fair shares of men and there is no other worthy to have me than you.”

Hakkeran’s lips parted and his heart throbbed as if his air was being robbed.

“I like you, Hakkeran Adral.” Sollel leaned in and cupped his face. “I like you too much that I want to bind you to me, so stop putting yourself down. Be proud of who you are. No one can do what you did for me and that makes you rare, incomparable and irreplaceable to me. So be proud, my warlord, because I, Queen Sollel Vatra Sarragny, the Krahika of the temple of Ignis, the first blessed queen of Yther, the Mistress of flame and the Queen of Destruction is very proud to have you and call you mine.”

A lone tear escaped Hakkeran’s eyes as he smiled so lovingly at her. “I love you so much, Sollel. So, so much, that I don’t know how could I express this to you in a way that will not suffocate you.”

Sollel used her essence to dry the tear that fell from Hakkeran’s eyes before she pressed her lips on his and said, “I honestly don’t mind if you smothered me with your love, Hakkeran.” She shrugged. “I don’t know… maybe if it’s from someone, it’ll be suffocating, but if it’s from you, I’ll gladly accept it.”

Hakkeran was too surprised to speak that he was just staring at Sollel who smiled at Hakkeran’s reaction.

“Ah, my warlord,” a teasing smile appeared on Sollel’s lips. “Do you want me to express how much I want you again?”

Almost immediately, Hakkeran gulped seeing the sultry smile on Sollel’s lips. Hakkeran knew what was coming next.

And he was not mistaken.

His queen moved down on him and started kissing and licking his manhood that was already half hard. His queen’s tongue was such a tease that he couldn’t help gripping her hair as his head arched back and a long lustful moan escaped his lips.

“Ahh, Sollel…”

Sollel moved her lips to lick and kiss the base of Hakkeran’s manhood as she looked at her warlord. “You should start calling me Sollel from now on. I like it more than ‘my lady’ or ‘my queen’.”

“Hmm…” Hakkeran was too mindless to think straight. “Yes, ahh…! Sollel… please… suck it.”

Hearing her warlord begging, Sollel smiled before she welcome her warlord’s well endowed manhood in her mouth and moves it up and down.

Sollel knew how much it drives Hakkeran crazy when she works her tongue when she was inside her mouth so she twirled it and licked it and sucked him hard until he was panting and calling her name as he came.

Hearing Hakkeran lustfully called her name over and over again as he came hard made her body burned so hot that she wanted to be eaten too.

“Hakken…” Sollel called her warlord’s name as if aching to be pleasured.

And that made Hakkeran smiled. “Come up here and let me worship my wet little queen.”

Sollel bit her lower lip and was about to position her wet folds on Hakkeran’s mouth when a loud knock echoed on the door.

And then the most terrifying voice was heard.

“Sollel! I know you’re in there! Come out! Sollel!” Gatria sounded so mad that Sollel lost all her desire to be eaten by her warlord. “Sollel! Come out!”

Sollel bit her lip again, not because of lust, but because of nervousness.

Then she moved to sit on the bed and looked at Hakkeran. “Hakken, I think you’re dead.”

Hakkeran who was still naked got up and kissed his queen on the shoulder. “We’ll be fine.”

Sollel vigorously shook her head. “No. You don’t know Gatria. But I’ll, um, I’ll protect you.”

Hakkeran couldn’t help smiling and teasing his queen. “You look so scared though…”

“Because she’s scary—”

“Sollel!”

Sollel visibly flinched and used her blood of flame to summon her blood flame armor. “Okay. I’m ready to go to war.”

Hakkeran just watch his queen left the bed and walked towards the door. Meanwhile, Hakkeran hurriedly grabbed a set of clothing in the closet.

When his lady opened the door, Hakkeran was already ready to go to war and support his queen, but something happened that made him rethink twice if he would support his lady.

Sollel kneeled in front of angry Gatria and Hakkeran could only let out a sighed when Sollel started apologizing for being naughty.

This is not war, he thought. This is begging pardon at its finest. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 69

CHAPTER 69

SOLLEL WAS kneeling in front of Gatria again, but unlike last time, she knew what she did wrong. She knew why Gatria was fuming mad. I sneaked out and then I made love with my warlord.

Sollel wanted to tell herself that she never regretted anything because she enjoyed the whole night with her Hakkeran who pleasured her non-stop until the enchantment in his room was close to being destroyed, but seeing Gatria’s fuming mad face, Sollel regretted sneaking out — thought I don’t really regret making love to my Hakken—

“How could you be so hard headed, Sollel?!” Gatria’s voice boomed inside the castle that Sollel had to stop herself from flinching in fear. “I know you’ll make trouble again, but I want to trust you! And look at what you did! Sneaking out like a child! Sollel, are you even thinking?!”

Sollel always had an answer even before and unconsciously, she answered Gatria. “Of course, I’m thinking. How could I sneak out if I was not thinking—”

“Sollel Vatra Sarragny!”

Sollel immediately closed her mouth shut. That was her cue to shut up for real. I’m so sorry, Hakken. Gatria is just so scary. I will make it up to you later, my warlord.

“And you!” Gatria pointed Hakkeran who was just silently standing near the closet and watching the two queens. He didn’t really want to interject because he felt like it was not his place. “How dare you take advantage of Sollel’s innocence!”

Hakkeran knew he should be focusing on Gatria and her anger, but he really couldn’t help frowning. My Sollel? Innocent? Hmm.

Meanwhile, Sollel frowned at that too. I’m innocent? Since when? She wanted to ask Gatria, but she was afraid to be shouted at again, but Sollel’s mind halted and she snapped put from her reverie when Gatria step passed her and her sword appeared in her hand!

Sollel’s eyes widened in fear.

Gatria’s sword was made from her essence. It was lethal, poisonous and sharp. It didn’t have to touch one’s skin to wound them, the force of Gatria’s slash was enough to cut a person.

And her sword was now aimed at Hakkeran!

Hakkeran didn’t even move— no, not that he didn’t, but couldn’t. It was too sudden! Too fast! Queen Gatria was just scolding Sollel and in a heartbeat, she arrived in front of Hakkeran with a sword in her hand. And with a force that made the whole castle tremble at her movement, she thrust her sword at Hakkeran chest.

Hakkeran was sure that Gatria’s sword would kill him, it was too powerful that it even shook the castle. But before he felt the sword pierced his chest, his room became blistering hot and a loud flutter of wings was heard. And as fast as Gatria and her sword, Sollel appeared in less than a breath behind Hakkeran and used her flaming wings to block Gatria’s attack and protect Hakkeran from Gatria’s sword.

“Don’t hurt him!” Sollel never raised her voice at Gatria to antagonize her, just then. “He didn’t take advantage of me! How could you even think of hurting my man, Gatria? He was the one who made me happy again! He was the one who brought back my smile! He never gets tired of being there for me and I wanted to do the same for him. He loves me, Gatria! Truly! And I love him too!”

Hakkeran knew he was in an unfavorable situation, his life was literally at the tip of someone’s sword, but when he heard those three words from his queen’s lips, he forgot that his life was in danger and he just turned around, face his queen, cupped his lady’s face and kissed her deeply and passionately.

And Sollel immediately melted when she felt Hakkeran’s lips on hers. She wrapped her arms around Hakkeran’s neck and kissed Hakkeran back with the same hunger and need. Her wings even started to fade as she focused on kissing Hakkeran back.

Sollel only snapped out when she heard Gatria cleared her throat.

Almost instantly, Sollel pulled away from Hakkeran’s lips and then she pulled Hakkeran and hid him behind her back while she used her body to protect her warlord from Gatria.

Sollel wanted to shrink down when she saw Gatria’s sharp eyes glaring at her, but she held her ground for her warlord. She was scared, but he will not waver for Hakkeran. She wanted him and she will have him!

“Don’t —” Sollel was really scared of Gatria, but her need to protect Hakkeran from Gatria was stronger than her fear. “Don’t hurt him, Gatria. He had done nothing, but love me and worship me. He’s important to me as I am important to him. If you continue to attack him, I’m sorry, but I will not sit idle and let you hurt my man!” Balls of flame appeared and floated around Hakkeran’s room. “He’s mine and I’m keeping him whether you like it or not!”

Sollel was ready to fight. She even summoned back her wings, created balls of flame and in a battle stance. But just when she thought Gatria would snap and attack, a laughter rang out from Gatria’s lips as if she was happy, leaving Sollel confused that she tilted her head at Gatria.

“What’s… happening?” Sollel was genuinely confused.

Instead of answering Sollel, Gatria sobered up and looked at Hakkeran. “You’re welcome, Warlord Hakkeran. I think we’re now even.”

Hakkeran was just as confused as Sollel. “What… do you mean, Your Highness?”

Gatria’s swords disappeared from her hand, then she walked towards Sollel and flicked Sollel’s forehead. “This Mistress of Flame over here is a happy-go-lucky and a troublemaker woman. Sollel has a bad habit of owning things and then throwing them away when she gets bored.” She looked at Hakkeran. “I was afraid that she was just intrigued by you, Warlord Hakkeran.”

Hakkeran felt like his heart fell and Gatria, who could read Hakkeran like an open book, chuckled and added. “Don’t worry. I’m now sure that she’s serious about you. Sollel never raise her voice at me like that nor think of fighting me or Astrid over something or someone . The only time she wanted something and stood her ground was when she asked us to bless the humans with our elemental essence.

“Other than that, she always folds and would immediately listen to us when we told her that we didn’t want it for her. Unless she really wanted to own something for a lifetime, that’s the only time she stands her ground and antagonized us. If it was just a passing fancy or curiosity, this childish Queen of Destruction here,” Gatria flicked the tip of Sollel’s nose who was slightly pouting, “will not even bat an eyelash for you, nor block my sword for you.”

Sollel glared at Gatria. “So, you’re just testing me?!”

Gatria immediately became strict. “Don’t shout, Sollel.”

And Sollel immediately lowered her voice and asked in a whisper, like a meek child. “So you’re just testing me?”

“Yes. Treven told me about everything Warlord Hakkeran did for you and for me, so of course I want to make sure that you’re not just going to play with him and throw him away once you get bored with him.”

“That will not happen!” Sollel was close to stomping her feet. “I already gave myself to him and he’s my future King and husband.” Sollel showed Gatria her ring given by Hakkeran. “See? He loves me and I feel the same way.”

Gatria shook her head, but not at Sollel, but at Hakkeran who was just silently watching the two queens bantering. “Warlord Hakkeran, I suggest you steeled and ready yourself because the woman you fell in love with is a crazy troublemaker.”

“Gatria! Don’t talk bad about me! Hakkeran might change his mind. I’m being nice now, you see.”

Gatria gave Sollel a look and Sollel immediately became silent and watching how obedient Sollel was, Hakkeran couldn’t help chuckling before he kissed his queen’s temple and looked at Gatria.

“If it’s my Queen Sollel causing mischief and trouble, I don’t think I’ll mind.” Hakkeran said with a shrug and a soft smile.

“I bet,” Gatria breath out. “You are after all the man who helped and let the Mistress of Flame caused havoc as you watch with pride.”

Hakkeran glanced at his queen and smiled lovingly. “For my Sollel, I can watch her burn Azitera with a proud smile on my lips.”

Sollel nodded at that and she looked so proud. “That’s the truth, Gatria. He’s my knight— no, he’s my warlord in blood red armor.”

Gatria just sighed, seeing how smitten Sollel was with the warlord and the warlord was even more so to Sollel. That was the reason why she tested Sollel— for the Warlord’s sake since she owed the warlord a lot.

But… “You two should control yourselves.” Said Gatria before turning around to leave. “Stop kissing everywhere. At least, be subtle. You’re making the people around you uncomfortable. And if Astrid finds out that you gave yourself without waiting for her consent…”

Sollel’s eyes widened as her whole body went rigid with fear. “Holy deities…! She’ll make me kneel for a decade!”

“Yes, she will.” Gatria chuckled and turned to Sollel when she reached the door. “Remember little Queen of Destruction, I am the gentle, but strict Queen, Aenwyn is the crazy Queen, you’re the troublemaker Queen and Astris is—”

“—is the diabolical Queen…” Sollel shuddered, remembering Astrid’s angry face, then she turned to Hakkeran. “She will kill you, Hakken. So before that happens, I have to bind you to me so even if she dropped you from the sky and throw you to level a mountain and make it a valley, you will not die because you are bonded to me. We have to find Aenwyn fast.”

Hakkeran was speechless, hearing how he would drop and thrown by the Mistress of the Wind.

While Gatria nodded at Sollel and told Hakkeran, “listen to Sollel. Astrid will kill you for deflowering our little troublemaker, but if you’re bonded with Sollel, Astrid will still kill you, but you’ll live.”

Hakkeran smiled wryly at Queen Gatria. “Thanks for the advise.”

Queen Gatria shrugged nonchalantly and gently. “You’re welcome.” Then she became serious. “Anyway, about Aenwyn and Astrid, we need to talk.”

Sollel became serious as well at the mention of the two and nodded at Gatria. “Hakkeran could help. He said he mapped out the route to Aenwyn and Astrid’s prison.”

Gatria looked at Hakkeran, impressed. “Maybe Astrid won’t kill you after all—”

Hakkeran sighed in relief.

“— she’ll just beat you up until you crave death.” Gatria added with a gentle smile that made it look creepy and more scary.

Hakkeran didn’t know what to say so he just closed his mouth and watched Queen Gatria leave his room. When they were finally alone, Sollel faced Hakkeran.

“Don’t worry about, Astrid. I’ll, um, protect you.”

Hakkeran could see how much Astrid scares Sollel, but he still nodded with a smile. “You’ll protect me like earlier?”

Sollel nodded. “I’m scared of Astrid, honestly, but for you, I will muster all my courage and I will kneel and begged her to not drop you from the sky or throw you to level a mountain to make it a valley.”

What did I expect? Queen Gatria told him already. He fell in love with a troublemaker. But honestly, he didn’t care if he got dropped or thrown, what matters to him was he was finally with his queen.

Nothing matters other than being with her.

Hakkeran wrapped his arms around his lady and kissed her forehead and whispered over her ear. “Want to take a bath with me, my lady?”

Sollel wanted to, but she had a condition. “Call me by my name first.”

Hakkeran kissed the back of her ear and whispered. “Do you want to take a bath with me, Sollel?”

Sollel swore that her body shuddered when she heard Hakkeran saying her name. There’s just something about his baritone voice when calling her name that’s making her feel needy and turned on.

“Yes. Let’s take a bath.”

Sollel let Hakkeran guide her towards the inner chamber in his bedroom where there was a small pool in the middle.

In all honesty, Sollel was not interested in taking a bath, she was more interested who she was bathing with.

And she was not mistaken. Before they took a bath, Hakkeran took her first from behind while her hands were on the edge of the pool. They made love until the water became too hot that Sollel think they broke the bath.

♕♕♕

IF GABIN DIDN’T go fetch his lordship and Queen Sollel in his lordship’s room, the two wouldn’t leave the bedroom and missed breakfast. Good thing Gabin did and the two went to the dining hall with him.

Upon entering the dining table, Gatria was already there, and also Treven. And when Hakkeran and Sollel sat in their chair, Gabin couldn’t help being amused.

Yther and Sappher. Mortal enemies. Yet, one were best of friends and the other one were lovers. And as the four shared their breakfast, Gabin felt like he was lucky for witnessing a history in the making.

After their morning meal, Gabin was told that there would be a talk so Gabin guided the four towards the drawing room that was enchanted by King Tirac so outsiders would not be able to hear what was going on inside.

“You are safe to speak here,” Gabin bowed his head. “Some Kings and Queen the allied races have started to arrive. I will welcome them in your stead and I will bring them to the grand hall.”

Hakkeran nodded, so did the two queens.

When Gabin left, Treven immediately started the talk.

“The sea has changed since you sailed to map the sea lane towards Aqua Terra.” Treven informed everyone, especially Hakkeran. “It had become rougher these past few years. Though sometimes it would be calm when no one is sailing, but when fishermen try to sail, the waves would suddenly just appear.”

“It’s Aenwyn.”

“Probably Aenwyn.”

Gatria and Sollel answered at the same time.

“But she’s in prison.” Hakkeran said.

“No matter,” said Gatria as if it was to be expected. “Aenwyn is still near the water. Just like I was near nature in the Hallowed Valley. The moonrite stone may be able to drain our strength, made us weak and made our mind hazy, but when we get used to it and we’re near our element, our consciousness becomes clear and we could wield a little bit of our power.”

Hakkeran understood. “… the flower in The Hallowed Valley.”

Gatria nodded. “Moonrite stone constantly drains me in the Hallowed Valley, but I could still draw some essence from the soil around me and that helped me somehow.”

“And Aenwyn is the same,” Sollel added. “She might not be strong enough, but she had little strength left.”

Treven frowned. “If she still had some strength left, wouldn’t it be more, I don’t know, important to save it so she could escape, maybe?”

Gatria and Sollel both shook their heads.

“Why?” Hakkeran asked.

“Because she’s crazy.” Gatria and Sollel answered at the same time.

Then Gatria added. “I will bet that she’s enjoying drowning those humans every time they try to sail the calm sea.”

Sollel nodded. “I bet.”

Gatria and Sollel shared a look before sighing.

Seeing how the two queens became silent and how Treven was shaking his head, Hakkeran shared what he knew. “The route to the Caelum Kingdom hasn’t changed, but it’s a long way from Adral. You have to pass the Kingdom of Treterra and crossed the sea via boat in a port in the city of Ager and then crossed the two of the three largest forests in Azitera. It would be best if you have a means to fly. It’ll make the travel shorter— well, as short as it could be— and it’ll avoid trouble too.”

“I hate flying,” Gatria immediately shot down Hakkeran’s suggestion. “Treven and I will walk while you two will sail the sea to get Aenwyn.”

Sollel frowned at Gatria. “Wouldn’t it be better if you get Anewyn and we’ll get Astrid? Hakkeran has a pet gryphon. Nessus could fly us to the floating castle.”

“It was indeed a good idea, but,” Gatria’s expression darkened. “I have a bone to pick with the Kingdom of Treterra. I want to drop by while traveling to Caelum. And you should get to Aenwyn fast before I free Astrid. I’m not kidding, she will kill your warlord.”

“I know that…”

“Good.” Gatria nodded at Sollel and Hakkeran. “And anyway, the sea may have changed, but it would still be best if someone who already sailed it would go to Aqua Terra. At least they already have an experience and they’ll know what to expect.”

Hakkeran understood the reasoning, but he also knew that it was not only that. He could sense Queen Gatria’s hatred towards humans, but her hatred for the people of the Kingdom of Treterra was much worse and brutal.

Queen Gatria wanted revenge and she will surely make it happy by ‘dropping’ by on Ager on her way to Caelum Kingdom.

“Then, me and my queen will go to Nayale Archipelago.” Hakkeran accepted the plan.

“Then Treven and I will go to Caelum Kingdom.” Gatria decided and then asked Hakkeran. “I wield a sword and Treven is only good for defense, against a large number of enemies, I will need help. I hate using nature to kill, unless of course, they deserved it. But as much as possible, I would rather use my sword. I need someone to help me with offense.”

Hakkeran was ransacking his mind who he could send when Sollel spoke.

“You can take Zassia and Grath with you,” said Sollel. “They’re my students. I blessed them my flame. They’re very reliable. Grath is a demi-human, but Zassia is my human worshiper.”

Gatria’s face became expressionless as she looked coldly at Sollel. “Yes. I noticed. The reason why she was still alive is because she helped me escape the Hallowed Valley and that I can’t sense any malicious intent from her. She even told me that you blessed her. Sollel, haven’t you learned your lesson, yet?”

“Zassia is different,” Sollel reasoned with Gatria. “Just give her a chance. Her whole village is my worshiper. They’re very loyal to me that they were killed by the empire because they prayed to me.”

“Only half, my lady.” Hakkeran interject. “Half of the people in Ignis Village were saved by Gabin and they’re now in town. Zassia already met them, I believed.”

Sollel felt relief that Zassia wouldn’t cry and blame herself anymore. “That’s good to hear.”

Gatria sighed at Sollel. Seeing how much Sollel trusted Zassia and Grath, Gatria knew she couldn’t turn down Sollel’s offer. Sollel would never hurt her. She will not let Zassia and Grath accompanied her if she was unsure of their character. Ergo, even thought she didn’t want a human near him, she’ll try to tolerate Zassia’s presence.

“Okay. I will take Zassia and Grath if they wanted to come with me and not with you.”

Gatria knew she said the right thing when Sollel smiled brightly at her. “Thank you, Gatria! They’re really helpful. Zassia is like a little not-so-powerful me.”

“Sollel, don’t compare Zassia to you.”

Sollel’s face fell. “Because she’s human.”

“Because she’s not you. She’s not a troublemaker.”

“Hmp!”

Gatria sighed and was about to scold Sollel again when the door opened and five people entered except for Gabin.

Cira, Xeke, Zassia, Grath, and Naya.

“Mamma!” Naya immediately run towards Sollel and hugged her.

Xeke went to greet Treven since the two were close.

Zassia bowed at Queen Sollel. While Grath bowed at Queen Gatria.

Then Cira run towards Sollel and kneeled in front of her, her forehead was even pressed to the floor. “Your Highness! I’m so sorry I lied to you! I’m so sorry I didn’t tell you that Warlord Hakkeran was the one who sent me. I’m so sorry! I’m so sorry! You can punish this elf as much as you want, but please believe me that everything I said about you and the Yther Queen are genuine. I love the Yther Queen! But I love you more, Your Highness! That’s why Warlord Hakkeran recruited me and—”

“I know, Cira.”

Hearing that, Cira’s wide eyes looked up at Sollel. “You… knew?”

Sollel nodded.

“H-how? When? Where?”

Sollel shrugged. “Just a gut feeling. Though I didn’t know you were working for Hakkeran.” Sollel glanced at Hakkeran and it made Cira frowned. “But I figured you were on my side when you were severely injured, so I just let you be.”

Cira should be happy that her highness was not mad, but her mind was in confusion seeing Hakken, and her highness was calling Hakken, Hakkeran. What the heck is going on?

To add more to Cira’s confusion and chaotic mind, a serene voice spoke from behind here.

“Aren’t the Elven race loyal to me and only me?”

The shocked, confused and didn’t know what to say or do Cira turned her head to look at the woman who spoke and she nearly collapsed when she saw the familiar face of Queen Gatria! She was too focused on Queen Sollel earlier that she didn’t look at anyone, but her highness!

“Q-Queen… Q-Queen G-Gatria?” Cira was stuttering in shock and her mind literally went blank when the queen in front of her introduced herself so serenely while she was still kneeling on the floor.

“Yes. I am Queen Gatria Valen Balsatra. The Krahika of the temple of Nati. The fourth blessed queen of Yther, the Mistress of Nature and the overseer of Azitera.”

Cira was too shocked, too stunned, too speechless, too confused, too nervous and too excited that her plan to introduce herself didn’t happy. Why? Because she collapsed and fainted. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 70

CHAPTER 70

WHEN CIRA WOKE up after fainting, she was already in Sollel’s bedroom and Sollel who was looking after her was gracious enough to tell Cira everything that had happened since the moment they parted ways in Ager until what happened after she fainted.

Cira was crying after listening to Sollel’s story. “I’m so sorry, Your Highness! I’m so sorry!”

Sollel frowned at Cira, she clearly didn’t understand why Cira was crying. “Why are you crying? Did your mission to find the stone that could negate the moonrite’s stone effect failed?”

“What…?” Cira blinked at Sollel while drying her tears. “No. I succeed.”

“Then why are you crying?”

“Because I didn’t see you at your full power while burning the city of Faberion!” Cira wailed again, like a child that could get what she wanted. “Waaaaah! Waaaah! I hate you, Hakkeran! How could you not update me that my queen is already back in full power! You piece of shit warlord!”

Sollel shook her head at Cira. “You really didn’t know that he’s Hakken?”

Cira cried harder because she felt betrayed. “No, Your Highness. If I knew, I wouldn’t pair you with Hakken.” Then suddenly, Cira stoped wailing and crying as if something just entered her mind. “Wait— if Hakken was Hakkeran, then does that mean he took his own money?”

It was Sollel’s time to frown. “What are you talking about, Cira?”

Cira immediately shared her story. “Remember when I was kicked out, Your Highness? It’s because I visited Yther which was the town of Adral now. But at that time, there was still no town here and that’s where I met Warlord Hakkeran. He was living in the ruins of the temple of Ignis — which was where this castle was located now. I thought he was homeless, but after we talked, we both realized that we wanted the same thing and that’s to free the Yther’s queens. So he recruited me and I accepted. But that idiot sent me away to Beastrela to study medicine that does not involve my essence saying it’ll come in handy in the future,” Cira rolled her eyes, “which, it did. I learned a lot of things. I thought he had forgotten about me until he just suddenly appeared in Beastrela carrying you.”

Sollel got confused. “I thought you found me in the river after I fell…”

“Warlord Hakkeran found you in the river, then he brought you to me.” Cira corrected her small little lies. “He told me to heal you in any way I can and that I should accompany you wherever you go.”

“So you knew who I was at that time already?”

Cira looked down and nodded. “But I was so excited when you told me yourself that you’re the Mistress of flame. I didn’t need to tiptoe around you anymore and I can myself.” Cira offered Sollel an apologetic smile. “I’m sorry for deceiving you, Your Highness.”

Sollel shook her head. “You’re just trying to help.”

Tears fell from Cira’s eyes and she just launched at Sollel and hugged her while crying. “Thank you so much for understanding me, Your Highness. It means so much to me.”

A soft smile appeared on Sollel’s lips as she combed Cira’s hair. “You’re always so silly, Cira. Without you and Hakken, I don’t know where I’ll be. The end doesn’t justify the means, but for me, in my situation, it does. Thank you, Cira. Thank you for sticking with me and for being there for me.”

Cira cried even harder that Sollel started laughing at her.

“I’m still mad at that warlord! Even though it was his money that we spent traveling, I still hate him because he accepted his own money as payment for his services! What a lousy benefactor!”

Sollel laughed and flicked Cira’s ear. “And here I thought you’re too rich because you’re the Elven Princess.”

Cira gasped, then she pulled away from embracing the queen and looked at Sollel in awe. “You knew?”

Sollel tapped the side of Cira’s neck, just below her pointy left ear where a small flower-shaped birthmark was located “That’s Gatria’s mark that only appears in the Elven royal family.”

Cira immediately touched her birthmark. “I thought this was just a normal birthmark.” Then Cira started crying again. “Your Highness! You’re really amazing!” Then she hugged Sollel again. “Thank you for forgiving my lies!”

And that’s the scene Gatria saw as she entered Sollel’s room. And when Cira saw her, she immediately pulled away from Sollel and sit straight and formally on the bed.

Cira had been with Sollel longer, that’s why she acts how she act with Sollel even if she called Sollel ‘Her Highness’. To Cira, Sollel was not just her highness anymore, but a close friend she can wail and cry on.

But Queen Gatria on the other hand was different! Even the air around her was different! Or maybe because she was an elf and Queen Gatria was their Majesty?

To Cira, Queen Sollel felt like the devastation and destruction in a storm, but Queen Gatria felt like the calm before the storm. She was scary even though she had a gentle face.

Gatria raised her eyebrow at Cira. “You’re not going to faint again, are you?”

Cira immediately and vigorously shook her head. “N-no, Your Majesty.”

Sollel was trying her best not to laugh at Cira, especially when Gatria started grilling Cira.

“Elven Race is my people,” Gatria started. “So, I’m wondering why you love Sollel more than the other queens— more than me . It was your words, not mine.” Paused. “So, tell me, Princess Ciradyl Raenisa Valqirelle, am I not your queen anymore?”

Cira was so pale as she answered. “Y-you are my Q-Queen, Y-Your Majesty, Queen G-Gatria, b-but Queen Sollel is my favorite.”

Sollel clapped at Cira’s bravery to admit that she was her favorite, while Gatria laughed at how pale and scared Cira looked.

Meanwhile, Cira was looking at the two queens who seemed like they were having fun because of her.

Putting Cira out of her nervousness and fear, Gatria walked to Cira and made a flower crown for Cira as she patted Cira on the head. “I was just teasing you. As I recall, your grandmother, Celaena, was also Sollel’s supporter and devotee.”

Cira blinked at Gatria. “Y-You’re not mad, Your Majesty?” Tears were now falling from Cira’s eyes. “I can really love Queen Sollel more than all the other queens? Fore real?”

Gatria chuckled. “Of course. Sollel always had zealous devotees even before. She always shines brightly like the sun and people were normally enamored by her.”

Cira nodded vigorously before she launched herself at Queen Gatria and hugged her. “Queen Gatria!” Cira was back to crying again. “Though I love Queen Sollel more than anyone, you’re amazing too! Thank you for making the sacred forest for us. Thank you for accepting the whole Elven’s fealty.”

Gatria was about to pat Cira’s back when she noticed something that made her frown. “Ciradyl…? What happened to your essence? It’s so weak and depleted.”

“Oh, that…?” Cira let go of Queen Gatria and dried her tears as she went back to sit on the bed. “I just used it too much. It’ll come back eventually.”

“What have you been doing?” Gatria was worried because she knew how dangerous it was for an Elf to run out of essence. A long-term depleted essence meant growing old fast and dying a horrible death.

“Just analyzing the moonrite stone,” then Cira explained to Queen Gatria what she had been up to.

“Oh, yes.” Gatria nodded. “Sollel did tell me about it. So, you succeeded?”

Cira grinned and nodded. “It’s a stone or a gem called Black Sunre. I don’t know what kind of stone it is though, but at least we know, right?”

“Black Sunre…” Gatria frowned. “I haven’t heard that stone before and I’m the overseer of Azitera.” Gatria’s frown deepened even more. “Come to think of it, even I haven’t heard of moonrite stone before. It just appeared out of nowhere and I just learned about it when the humans used it against us.” Gatria sighed. “No matter. We will find it.”

Then, Gatria poured some of her essence into Cira, making Cira’s eyes bulged in astonishment at how lucky she was! “There. It’s not a blessing per se, but it’s close to that. I replenished your depleted essence and also strengthen your healing abilities. You earned it.”

Cira was crying again and Sollel and Gatria just chuckled at Cira. Then Sollel asked Gatria something that had been bothering her.

“How’s your essence, Gatria? Have you fully recovered?”

Gatria nodded. “In the middle of our escaped, Gabin, Warlord Hakkeran’s trusted aide intercepted us and gave me a vial full of nature’s essence from healers.” Unlike the three queens, Gatria’s blessing to humans were healing and agricultural skills and abilities. “The vial’s content only recovered half of my strength, but it was not too hard for me to recover fully. My essence is everywhere in Azitera.”

It was relief to Sollel who had a hard time recovering. Unlike Gatria, she couldn’t draw the essence from volcanoes. It’ll explode if she did. So, firestone was her only option. Good thing her warlord was so smart and very crafty when it comes to planning. She was able to recover her full strength.

“Are you done?” Gatria asked Cira who was now drying her tears. “The celebration will not start without us, you know.”

Cira immediately sprung out of the bed. “Yes, I am! Let’s celebrate!”

Gatria shook her head as she looked at Cira. “Wearing that?”

Cira was still wearing her usual dress. Not fancy and just Cira’s normal clothes for the day.

Cira looked down at her dress. “Am I not allowed?”

Gatria sighed and gracefully waved her hand at Cira. In a heartbeat, Cira’s whole body was covered in emerald mist, flowers and vines. It was too sudden that it stunned Cira, but when the flowers, vines and mist formed into a beautiful emerald green dress with corset on the front and silk chiffon sleeves, Cira had become even more stunned.

“There,” Gatria smiled in satisfaction as she dressed herself too, using her essence— a stunning off the shoulder white-green dress with flowers and vines as part of the design, from the chest down to the skirt.

Cira was stunned at how beautiful her dress was, but her jaw just hanged open when she saw what Queen Gatria was wearing. She looked like a Goddess of Nature. Cira wanted to compliment the queen, but then she saw Queen Sollel in her fiery blood red halter dress, its skirt flares out just below her hips, creating a semi-full shape bell and her highness looked stunning in it.

“Amazing…” Cira couldn’t help being awed. “You can actually make stunning and beautiful dresses out of your essence?”

Gatria nodded. “It’s just a matter of materializing our essence into the shape and design we wanted.” As she spoke, a crown with emerald stones materialized on her head, complimenting her long and wavy brown hair that reaches her hips. “And it’s durable. Dresses made by our own essence are like armors. Destroying it would take an army.”

Cira’s lips parted in awe as she watched a crown with firestone materialized on Queen Sollel’s head, flattering her bright red hair and eyes.

“Come on,” Gatria was already walking to the door, “they’re all waiting for us.”

Cira and Sollel looked at each other before they followed Queen Gatria to where the celebration was being held.

♕♕♕

DIFFERENT RACES were gathered in the grand hall of Hakkeran’s castle. Every race had their own table and representatives from their royal families, but those tables were just for formalities, really. Everyone was free to move around to other tables to talk to anyone they wanted.

The races present that night was the allies of the Yther’s Queens, though some aren’t, they were not hostile and just wanted to live in peace and to be left alone by humans who had been hunting them for their skin and other body parts that were valuable to human society.

All these races had already been investigated and checked by Hakkeran. There was no traitor in their midst, but if they had one, Solaris was always ready to burn them to crisp.

The grand hall was noisy as different races started to arrive one after another. Everyone was talking to one another, regardless of their race, sharing their struggles and opinions. Some extending help to those who wants it and some were offering safety to those who needed it.

Mixed together with these different races was a table for humans. Mostly from the Village of Ignis and the human representative of the town of Adral. They were friendly to the others, but some races present were still wary of them.

And beside the humans was the table of important guests — Gabriella, Zassia, Grath, Xeke, Treven, Zassia’s Grandfather and Naya.

While the host of this celebration, Warlord Hakkeran— who shocked everybody when he introduced himself as Hakkeran with Hakken’s face— was just standing in the corner and overseeing the whole place while glancing at the door from time to time, waiting for his queen to arrive.

At last, after two goblets of liquor, Hakkeran finally heard Gabin’s voice. He was the herald for this celebration.

“The representative of the Elven Kingdom has arrived.” Gabin raised his voice so everyone could hear him. “Let’s welcome Princess Ciradyl Raenisa Valqirelle, the Crown Princess of the Elven Kingdom.”

Cira wanted to correct Gabin, but Gabin just smiled when she signaled him to correct his mistake— that she had been kicked out and she was not a princess anymore.

But Cira didn’t get a chance to correct Gabin because her mind just went blank when she saw Xeke walking towards her in his full regalia and when he stopped in front of her, he offered his hand at her and smiled.

“Will you give me the honor of escorting you to your table, my lady?”

Cira wanted to pound her chest when her heart skipped a beat. “Can I say no?”

“Don’t you want me to?”

Cira glared at Xeke. “Thief!”

Xeke smiled. “Adorable.”

Cira leered at Xeke, but she still accepted his hand. “Make sure I won’t fall. My dress is long.”

“I’ll just catch you if you fell,” Xeke replied smoothly before he added. “You’re beautiful, by the way.”

“Of course.” Cira had an overflowing confidence when it comes to herself. “You fell for me after all.”

Xeke couldn’t help smiling at his adorable little elf before he kissed the back of her hand as she took the seat on the important guest’s table.

Cira glared at Xeke, but truthfully, she didn’t mind at all. She just didn’t want Xeke to think that she was an easy elf to conquer.

Then Gabin’s voice was heard once again.

“The Krahika of the temple of Nati. The fourth blessed Queen of Yther. The Mistress of Nature and the overseer of Azitera. Her Majesty, Queen Gatria Valen Balsatra!”

Treven immediately got up and with a dashing smile, he went to welcome Queen Gatria and escorted her towards the throne which was made for the four queens.

Murmurs of reverence and admiration could be heard in the hall as Queen Gatria walked with Treven and sat on the throne with her crest on it.

“Thank you, Treven.”

Treven shrugged, dashing as always. “Anytime for my queen.”

Gatria subtly rolled her eyes. “I would bet that you’ll forget all about me if that half-demon warlord showed himself here.”

Treven chuckled. “You bet I will.”

Gatria shook her head and looked at the door when Gabin introduced another queen.

“The Krahika of the temple of Ignis. The first blessed Queen of Yther. The Mistress of Flame and the Queen of destruction. Her Majesty, Queen Sollel Vatra Sarragny!”

Whispers of veneration and fear filled the hall as soon as Sollel stepped inside. It was not a surprise to Gatria who knew Sollel very well. Sollel was always feared by many because of her destructive strength. Only a handful of people knew that the Queen of Destruction had a kind and soft soul.

And Gatria was glad that Sollel had found a partner in crime, a friend, a protector and a lover in Warlord Hakkeran Adral.

Gatria couldn’t contain the smile on her lips as she watched Warlord Hakkeran escorting Sollel to her throne, beside her. But before Sollel could reach her chair, she spotted the Dwarven King and she just ran towards King Ruther with Hakkeran in tow.

“You stubborn mule!” Without hesitation as always, she hugged King Ruther as if he was a family member, but it still made Hakkeran grimaced. “I’m glad you’re still alive, Ruther. I thought you were already dead.”

King Ruther was ecstatic to see his queen, but he couldn’t help sighing. “I’m happy that you’re back, Your Majesty, but I’m also feeling a little apprehensive that you’re back.”

Sollel glared at King Ruther. “What do you mean apprehensive? Do you want me to throw you into a volcano’s mouth again?”

King Ruther shuddered at the memory. “No. I’m fine. I’m very happy to see you again.”

Sollel grinned, then she finally pulled Hakkeran to her side and introduced Hakkeran to King Ruther. “Ruther, I know you already know him, but still, I’m introducing him to you. This is my warlord, Hakkeran ‘Hakken’ Adral. He’s my future husband and King.” Then she showed the ring Hakkeran gave her.

King Ruther was not surprised. “I kept wondering before why you were so adamant on freeing Queen Sollel, even threatening other races, now I understand. Congratulations on your engagement and thank you for leading us on defeating the empire and freeing our Queen. With you as Her Majesty’s King, we won’t worry because she’s in good hands.”

Hakkeran accepted the gratitude and praised. “I will protect her with all my might and love her with all I got.”

King Ruther nodded and chuckled. “I don’t even doubt you.” He shook his head a little. “I’ve seen how you freed and protected Queen Sollel. I’m grateful. I know it may not be much, but if you need anything, the Dwarven Kingdom is at your disposal.”

“Actually, I do need your people,” Hakkeran immediately answered. “We are planning to free the other queens, that means we have to leave Adral. The city of Faberion’s destruction didn’t mean we already destroyed the empire. They still have a lot of armies in different cities under the empire’s banner and if they banded together against our little town while we’re away, a lot of the town’s people will die. So I implore you to stay here, build a curtain wall around the whole town for everyone’s protection. I will also talk to King Tirac to enchant the curtain walls that you will build for strong defense. I already spoke to the Harpies as well and they accepted my request to stay here in the meantime to watch and guard the air for us against wind sorcerers or any other flying creatures sent by our enemies to spy on us.”

Sollel just watched as her warlord planned with King Ruther. She couldn’t be prouder that Hakkeran was hers. What he was saying were the things she wanted to say and she was glad that her warlord was a smart man.

“This may be called the town of Adral now, but this was the Kingdom of Yther and Yther’s Queens home once we freed them all.” Hakkeran added, not knowing that everyone was intently listening to his and King Ruther’s conversation since Queen Sollel introduced him as her future king. “We couldn’t help them before, but now it’s different. The humans will surely band together against us so we have to band together as well to win this war. This was not just the Yther’s Queens’ war. This was also every race’s war so we all have to work together to reach our common goal and that is to win back Azitera and live in peace again. No running. No hiding. No slavery. Just living in our own pace in our own home.”

Everyone inside the hall nodded and Sollel smiled proudly before she spoke to everyone.

“You heard my warlord. If you want peace, prepare for war.”

Sollel was as formidable and fearless as ever in everyone’s eyes, as if she was the personification of fear and strength, and that made Gatria smile.

“People always fear her,” Gatria commented while watching Sollel, “but at the same, they were dazzled by her strength and fearlessness.”

Treven who heard it, smiled. “You sounded like a proud mother.”

Gatria chuckled and said, “I am.” Then she gave all her attention to Sollel and Warlord Hakkeran who were now addressing everyone in the grand hall. Sharing their plans, telling everyone Cira’s discovery since everyone present already knows about the moonrite stone, then afterwards dividing the work that had to be done.

Instead of celebration, it had become a conference. And nobody minded because their main focused was to live in peace and it’ll only happen if they defeated the overbearing humans and their armies and sorcerers.

After hours of deliberation and planning, the celebration finally commenced and everyone had a smile on their faces. Knowing the plan and seeing how the Yther’s Queens were back, they have high hopes that someday, they could get back to living peacefully like before.

That’s all they ever wanted and they will give their all to make that happen.

And as the night deepened, the celebration was in full swing. Drinking, eating, laughter and music. It was a happy occasion — a happy gathering that was ruined by a single news from Gabin.

“The Kingdom of Treterra’s general and his armies and sorcerers are outside Adral, together with the empire’s remaining soldiers. They are asking for Warlord Hakkeran to surrender himself and accept die punishment for his betrayal.”

Everyone immediately readied their weapons, ready to fight to the death, but Queen Sollel stopped them.

“Stay here, all of you.” Sollel said as a lava-like liquid swirled in her eyes. “We have a plan and it will be difficult to accomplish if you all died in battle. Follow the plan and do your parts well. Leave the soldiers to us. They are ours to slaughter.”

Feeling the air in the grand hall sizzle, everyone nodded and listened.

Then Queen Gatria stood up from her throne and walked towards the Mistress of Flame. “Sollel, you can have the empire’s soldiers, leave the Kingdom of Treterra to me.”

Sollel nodded and turned to Hakkeran when he wrapped a cloak around her frame.

“It’s enchanted.” Said Hakkeran. “Same with the one I gave you that could absorb the moonrite stone’s effect. I’m sure they’re all carrying one. But as you know, it can only absorb so much, so call me when it starts to deteriorate. King Tirac mass produced it for the Yther’s Queens.”

“Thank you, Tirac.” Gatria smiled at the Druid King, who only bowed his head respectfully at Queen Sollel and Queen Gatria.

Now both wearing the enchanted cloak, Queen Sollel and Queen Gatria left the grand hall together with Warlord Hakkeran, Gabin, Warlord Treven, Warlord Xeke, Princess Cira, Flame sorceress Zassia, Demi-human Grath and Zassia’s Grandfather and the wind sorcerer, Zio.

When they stepped outside the castle, Sollel immediately summoned her flame wings and flew to the sky.

While Hakkeran called his gryphon, Nessus, to give everyone who had no means to fly a ride which was Zassia, Grath, Gabin and himself.

Meanwhile, Treven called his Wyvern, Vago, to fly him and Gatria to the town’s entrance.

Former General Zio was a wind sorcerer, it was easy for him to navigate the air and use the wind to his advantage.

Simultaneously, Xeke used his daggers to teleport himself while Cira was running in the air with Xeke’s dagger as her support.

In less than a minute, Sollel landed on top of the town of Adral’s stone gate with her flame wings still burning behind her back, making the soldiers who saw murmured and stepped back in fear.

And on Sollel’s right, Warlord Hakkeran stood beside her together with Zassia, Grath and Gabin.

Meanwhile, on Sollel’s left, Queen Gatria jumped down from the flying wyvern and landed with ease and grace on top of the stone gate, beside Sollel and with her essence, a sword appeared in her hand, while she watched the generals, soldiers and sorcerers in front of them with cold and merciless eyes.

All the enemies were carrying a moonrite stone, but thanks to the enchanted cloak made by King Tirac, it didn’t affect Queen Sollel and Queen Gatria too much.

Immediately after Queen Gatria landed on top of the stone gate, Wind sorcerer and former Treterra General, Zio, followed by Xeke and Cira, landed beside the overseer of Azitera while Treven remained on his Wyvern that was hovering the stone gate of Adral.

The army and sorcerers outside didn’t know if they would be cheering or shudder in fear seeing that only a handful from the town of Adral will fight them.

The came here with a premise that they wanted Warlord Hakkeran to surrender, but it was just a pretext. They wanted revenge. They wanted war. They wanted the death of these monsters who ruined the Infernal Empire!

And as the two sides faced off, General Kar of the Kingdom of Treterra’s voice was heard.

“Warlord Hakkeran Adral! Surrender before we besieged your little town and crushed it with our military might!”

Hakkeran chuckled at that before he ordered Solaris to changed to its true form — his flaming sword. “Come on, General Kar. Don’t be like that. Can’t you just leave? We’re kind of busy celebrating.”

General Kar answered Hakkeran by drawing his war hammer and raising it to the sky. “Fight for the Kingdom of Treterra! Fight for the Empire! Fight for humans!”

As if on cue, soldiers run towards the stone gate and sorcerers ready their most powerful attacks, but before they could reach the town’s stone gate, Warlord Treven on his Wyvern made his move.

Crushing his crystal balls with his hand, he throws its shards in the air, shining as if they were stars in the sky before the shards fell and created a solid transparent shield almost covering half of Adral, especially the front.

“My apologies,” said Treven who had a dashing smile for his enemies. “I can’t let you pass that easily.”

The soldiers only stopped for a moment before they continued their advance while the flame, wind and water sorcerers finally released their most powerful attacks, aimed at the town. Destruction of Adral and death of its citizens were their aim. They were sure of their success. They might not be able to fight the fabled Queens of Yther, but they could destroy the former Kingdom of Yther again. Just for spite.

“As if I would let you destroy my home again.” Sollel muttered under her breath before she flew to the sky and intercept the attacks with her blood of flame.

With Nessus, Hakkeran followed Sollel to defend Adral from aerial attacks.

As Sollel’s blood of flame burned brightly in the sky and Hakkeran’s Solaris flared fiercely as if showing its might, as they defended Adral from the air, Gatria jumped down from the stone gate and walked calmly and gracefully towards the advancing soldiers. And everyone standing on top of the stone gate followed the queen.

With the Mistress of Flame and Warlord Hakkeran in the air, Warlord Treven shielding the front and Queen Gatria and the others on the land, the battle finally started.

And the horrific battle that will be known as the Slaughter of Traitors began with Queen Gatria executing the soldiers of the Kingdom of Treterra.

THE END

CECELIB | C.C.

EPILOGUE

EPILOGUE

SOMEWHERE DEEP in the ocean, in the middle of the dark sea, there was a moonrite prison caging the most beautiful woman of all Azitera, the second blessed Queen of Yther, the Mistress of the High Seas.

Unlike the other Mistresses who were weakened to the point that they looked like peasants, this Mistress was sitting pleasantly and relaxingly on the floor, as if lounging on a comfortable sit back in her temple. She was humming a soft melody while her fingers were softly caressing her long turquoise spiral curls hair, as if combing it.

The chains on her wrists kept making a sound as she combed her hair with her fingers, but her soft humming was enough to not be irritated by the sound her chains were making.

The guards outside the moonrite prison were already used to the chains rattling and moving around, accompanied by a soft humming that they didn’t comment anymore and just let the woman be.

The guards may not admit it, but they feared the beautiful woman inside the moonrite prison. The guard who dared enter the prison cell ended up killing himself just because the woman sang to him. It was the goriest death, they had witnessed and while the man lies dead on the ground, the woman’s melodious laughter was heard.

From then on, no one dared near her prison. She was beautiful beyond belief, but a crazy lunatic. Only the tribe’s chief enters the prison cell and gets out alive. But rumors were circulating that it was not because they were strong that they could enter and leave with their life intact, it was because the woman wants them to live. To torture them, they said.

The guards didn’t know if that was the truth, so they chose to keep their mouth shut as the Chieftain entered the Aqua Terra prison using a secret passage. Chieftain Ravi.

As Chieftain Ravi walked towards the center of the underwater chamber, towards the moonrite prison, the guards were subtly looking at her, praying that he’ll leave with his life intact.

Chieftain Ravi stopped in front of the moonrite prison where the Mistress of the High Seas were imprisoned. But she didn’t look like a prisoner and the fact that he had to control himself from admiring her when he’s in front of her irked Ravi. The queen looked like she was enjoying life to the fullest and it made Ravi mad.

“Good evening, Queen Aenwyn.” He greeted the woman even though all he really wanted to do was kill her. But he knew he couldn’t. Nayale Archipelago had never once experience storm since Queen Aenwyn was brought to Aqua Terra. Not only that, her presence alone alleviated their fishing trade and sea hunt.

But that was before out of nowhere waves started appearing and drowning the fishermen. And Chieftain Ravi knew exactly who was doing it.

Queen Aenwyn leaned on her moonrite prison’s wall as she let her hair spread on her prison’s floor and innocently looked at Chieftain Ravi. “Oh. It’s evening already? I didn’t know,” her voice sounded so beautiful that Ravi forgot for a second that the woman in front of him was a monster.

Ravi steeled herself and glared at the queen. “When will you stop?” He gritted his teeth. “How monstrous could you be?!”

Aenwyn blinked at the Chieftain throwing a fuss in front of her. “What are you talking about? I’m just here… minding my own business.”

“You know what I’m talking about!” Chieftain Ravi snapped. “You drowned a dozen of fishermen again! I know it’s you! I just knew it!”

Queen Aenwyn’s face remained innocent and pure. “Whatever do you mean? How could I do what you’re accusing me of when I’m imprisoned here?” Aenwyn even raised her hand to show off her chained wrist made of moonrite. “How could a chained and weak me drown your people? Chieftain Ravi,” Aenwyn smiled and it was the most wicked and malicious smile Ravi had ever seen, “don’t accuse me if you had no proof.”

Ravi glared at the woman inside the moonrite prison. “Okay! Keep lying! But I know the truth and the fact that you will not leave this prison! You’ll be here forever because you’re a monster! We will not let you out and you will rot here until the end of your days!”

“Good luck with that then. Keep fighting and don’t give up.” Aenwyn cheered the chieftain before she elegantly and gracefully laid herself on the floor as if she was lying on a soft mattress. “Ah… the water is getting warmer.”

That made Ravi stilled because there was no water in the moonrite prison. They made sure of it. Something is up! “What are you up to?”

Aenwyn’s eyes glanced at the chieftain. “What could I possibly be up to? Are you an idiot? I’m in prison, surrounded by moonrite stones. Chained and caged for, I don’t know, centuries? What could I possibly do to your beloved archipelago?”

“Those sudden waves—”

“Not my fault.” Aenwyn cut the Chieftain in a singsong voice and chuckled. “I think your people have become so complacent. Just because I’m here doesn’t mean waves won’t come and visit. Tides are always changing. The sea always devours all. You know, Chieftain, a word of advice from me, you should change my location. This prison of yours won’t hold me for long.”

Ravi subtly gulped and control his fear when he saw the Mistress of the High Seas eyes. Ravi swore, he saw ocean waves in their depths and he knows his accusation was right.

Those fishermen drowning, this was the Mistress of the High Seas’ doing.

“You will stop drowning fishermen this instant!” Ravi hissed, his anger was getting the better of him. “I will not let you drown anyone or—”

“Or what?” Aenwyn turned her body to the side to face the chieftain. “Chieftain Ravi, you should focus on saving your people. Threats don’t work on me, as you know.” She smiled. “Tell your people not to sail and go fishing and sea hunting. Who knows, they might drown again if they did. And since I already warned you, it’ll be your fault.” Aenwyn sang her last word and laughed. “Why do you look so mad, Chieftain? I’m doing you a favor here and warning you ahead of time. Aren’t I nice and kind?”

“You monsters!”

Aenwyn just laughed at the Chieftain’s rage-filled face. “Oh, Chief Ravi. Thank you for making my night. You’re such a funny human.”

Ravi was fuming mad, but he knew he couldn’t do anything against the Mistress of the High Seas! That’s what doubled his rage. So he just left the moonrite prison or he might die with anger because of that crazy queen.

Ravi could hear the woman’s laughter even as he exited the chamber and it fueled his rage even more. Meanwhile, Aenwyn was having the time of her life, always exploiting the limited entertainment that she could only enjoy when one of those humans visits her.

Now alone, her smile disappeared and she sighed before closing her eyes to feel the sea around her.

She knew from the very beginning that she was in the deepest part of the ocean and she knew that it was somehow connected to the surface since those humans could visit her whenever they wanted.

Aenwyn only sighed because she knew what chieftain Ravi said was true. She will truly rot here.

Yes, she could still command some waves and drown some fishermen, but that was it, really. Nothing special or spectacular. The moonrite stone surrounding her still drains her power every day and the only thing keeping her awake was the fact that she was underwater— she was close to the sea and she could somehow draw the essence from it, but it always got drained by the stone she hated so she’s still weak and bored.

And her only entertainment was drowning those humans and waiting for a chief or the chieftain to visit her and blamed her again and again. It was always so funny when they’re fuming mad but they couldn’t do anything to her because she’s important.

Sighing, Aenwyn pouted at how bored she felt. All she had with her was her memories with Sollel, Gatria and Astrid. Their happy memories — well, Gatria and Astrid were always stressed, but she was sure that she and Sollel were happy doing everything they wanted.

Ah, Sollel. My partners in crime and partners in punishment. I hope she’s okay. I hope she’s not beating herself up since I’m sure she’s blaming herself for everything that has happened.

Aenwyn sighed and instead of thinking of her friends and family, she forced herself to rest.

Aenwyn didn’t know how long she slept until she woke up with a feeling that she was burning! As she hurriedly checked her self if she was okay, that was when she realized that it was not her that was burning, but a part of the sea!

And that burning feeling, the scorching heat she felt was very familiar that her lips parted when she realized who it was.

“Sollel…” Aenwyn whispered when she became sure that it was indeed Sollel.

She had fought Sollel almost everyday before that she had become familiar with her flame essence and she was not mistaken. It was really Sollel and she was trying to burn the sea — for some reason.

Well, it’s not shocking. 

Knowing how much Sollel hated the sea, Aenwyn couldn’t help chuckling and also feeling appreciative that Sollel was actually in Nayale Archipelago. She knew Sollel was here for her.

Aenwyn smiled as she looked at her moonrite chains and prison, and it was the most beautiful smile of all. “So my Queen of Destruction is coming to get me.” Her beautiful and radiant smile widened even more. Nayale Archipelago… I will return what you did to me tenfold. I will sink your little islands and bury you along with it deep in the ocean as promised.

“Accept my retribution. You deserved it.”

CECELIB | C.C.

MISTRESS OF NATURE 🍃

(

Coming soon this summer)

SPECIAL CHAPTER: Rescue

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: A peek into the past

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WRITER’S REVEAL: How the Azitera Series came to be

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[FREE PREVIEW] - The Descendant of Sappher and the Former Elf Princess

The Descendant of Sappher and the Former Elf Princess

BATHING AND changing into more comfortable clothing after the unforeseen battle that took place outside the town of Adral earlier, Ciradyl did not waste any time and immediately went to the castle’s library even though it was already dead of the night. It was not enough just learning about the stone that could negate the effect of the moonrite stone on the Yther’s Queens. She wanted to search for it, find it, and then use it to the queens’ advantage.

As long as they had no means to fight the moonrite stone, the queens would always be at a disadvantage. King Tirac could enchant cloaks to temporarily protect the queens from the moonrite stone’s effect, but it would take a lot of essence and it was not a feasible long-term solution against the moonrite stone.

We need the Black Sunre.

Cira wanted to be useful for Her Highness and the other queens. There were already a handful of powerful beings that could fight beside the Yther’s Queens. As much as she wanted to fight alongside Her Highness, she knew where she was needed the most, and that was to find the Black Sunre. She had no idea what it looked like or if she could find it, but she would not give up.

“It’s already past midnight, my lady. You should be in bed.”

Cira’s didn’t stop walking even when Xeke suddenly appeared beside her. “And you’re stalking me.”

Xeke teleported from Cira’s side to her front to stop her in her tracks. “My lady, you need to rest and sleep. Your health will plummet if you continue disregarding your well-being.”

Cira calmly looked at Xeke and explained to make him understand why she was up and about, “I need to do some research about the Black Sunre stone.”

Xeke sighed as if giving up on persuading Cira to go back to her room. Xeke had been traveling with Cira for quite a while now, and he knew how stubborn this elf in front of him was.

“So you’re off to the library?”

Cira nodded. “Don’t worry. I’m fine. I can’t sleep anyway. I might as well do something productive.”

Xeke’s worried expression turned to amusement in a second. “My lady, I’m pretty certain this is not the way to the castle’s library.”

Cira’s lips parted then gave Xeke a thoughtless reason while avoiding his eyes. “Um… It’s a shortcut?”

Xeke tried not to laugh at his elf. “It’ll be a dead end in the kitchen.”

Cira clicked her tongue then started walking toward the opposite direction. Of course, Xeke followed suit. He did not say anything until Cira stopped and grudgingly asked, “Where the hell is that library?!”

Xeke bowed at Cira while motioning his hand toward the right path. “This way, my lady.”

Cira glared at Xeke. “Why didn’t you say so earlier?! We could’ve save a lot of time!”

“You look adorable trying to find the right way.”

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: The Descendant of Sappher and the Former Elf Princess

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: Bathtub (R-18)

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: The Mistress of the Wind

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