《The Forgotten Slayer》


 Chapter 1: The Wendigo

    Chapter 1 - The WendigoThe trail had gone cold. While disappointed, Clyde was suprised to see a trail at all. This meant that their last encounter together was impactful enough to wear it down. Regardless, the sun was setting and the woods were no place to be at night. Clyde took a moment to assess his surroundings and closed his eyes. A moment later he turned to the left and walked for several minutes approaching a worn down shack.


    ''Better than nothing''


    Reaching for the door to the shack Clyde realized he needed to finish tomorrow or else it would escape, but there is no need to overthink his process.


    Inside the cabin the air was musty and dust was covering the place as if it hasn''t been occupied in a long time. Clyde had to deal with worse locations to rest in the past so he did not pay to much attention to detail one way or another. Though he was annoyed about the draft. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As he laid onto the rotten wood he laid his sword down next to him in reach in case something were to happen. Looking at the ceiling of the shack Clyde wondered if this was all worth it, but as fast as the thought came to him it left and he closed his eyes.


    Thirty minutes after the dusk foul noises could be heard that fueled Clyde restlessness. Despite the growls and screams from various directions nothing felt out of the ordinary for him as it was part of his job afterall. That being said Clyde felt something was off and if anyone knew something was off about the forest it would be him considering his time there. Out of all the humans in the village Clyde imagined he spent more time than anyone out here, so what was bothering him so much?


    A loud scream pierced the cabin walls followed what sounded like a women begging for help


    "Please is anyone out here! I''m being chased by this thing!"


    Clyde sat up and reached for his sword, many thoughts racing through his head.


    ''Is the Wendigo trying to lure me out? That seems unlikely considering it ran but it''s not out of the ordinary.''


    Of course there was no way someone was crazy enough to be out in the forest especially at night. Still Clyde stayed on edge with his sword at the ready standing next to the door. After all there was a chance he could head home early in the morning if it came to him instead.


    The women''s plea grew closer and closer followed by absolute silence.


    ''It gave up, maybe it realized I''m not that stupid''


    Before Clyde took his hand off his blade the door barged open and what Clyde saw in front of him scared him more than anything he was expecting. It was a girl who looked like she had been through hell with the only clothing on her being a worn leather tunic. Before Clyde could process a though the girl looked at him and yet out of a scream. As soon as she made noise Clyde reacted leaping at her and covering her mouth with his hand.


    "Be quiet or it will find you and me."


    Realizing Clyde was not one of the things outside the girl calmed down and Clyde removed his hand while backing away. Still Clyde knew better than to let his guard down so he kept his hand next to his sword ready at a moments notice.


    ''What a crazy person, I mean just what is she thinking''


    The girl collected her thoughts and stood up


    "My name is Bell... and you are?"


    "Clyde, and you need to stop talking before you get us both killed. We will speak more when daylight comes."


    Bell seemed dejected by Clyde''s cold shoulder but he knew more than she did clearly and while it''s true he didn''t get along with people it was a necessity to keep the chatting to a minimum.


    ''I guess I''m not getting any sleep tonight, if I was guessing she probably won''t either''


    He glanced over at Bell to find she was passed out on the floor which was another shock to him. He could only imagine what she had gone through in the forest judging by the shape of her attire. Not to mention the attire itself was that of a peasant or slave. Perhaps she was running from some place and she unfortunately made it here. All Clyde knew was that this girl must have had a bad experience in life and unfortunately for her she made it here.


    ***


    The sun was rising and Clyde was barely awake having stayed up all night being cautious of a potential attack from a monster or Bell.


    He stood up and went over toward the door to open it and as the door made a noise Bell woke up


    "Are you going to leave me here?"


    ''Of course she could sleep through the night terrors of the forest but this door wakes her up''


    "I was planning to check on something outside. I didn''t see a need to wake you up so early."


    "Well you did say we would discuss things at daylight."


    Clyde shut the door and sat in front of Bell


    "You''re right, since it is day time and you are awake I might as well get to questioning. Why were you out in these woods and better yet why would you come at night?"


    Seemingly puzzled Bell responded sluggishly


    "I.. was not aware that it was so dangerous outside."


    "Outside? You were not aware of the dangers, did your parents not tell you anything?"


    "I don''t have parents, I grew up alone as a slave to a Lord."


    There was an awkward silence as Clyde did not know how to respond but he also wasn''t taken by suprised considering her outfit.


    "So you ran away."


    "Yes."


    He couldn''t blame the girl considering he grew up in a similar way. Just like her he would''ve ran away if he didn''t get freed during the revolt. Still he had a problem on his hands and it was on that was not easily solved. She was bleeding


    "Let me see your wounds."


    Bell pulled up her arms that had nashes with deep brusing all over. After I gave her a nod she turned around exposing her back as well as the deep claw marks. It was rather impressive she escaped or even made it this far into the woods in the first place. There was something she wasn''t telling him but that did not matter right now.


    Opening his satchel Clyde pulled out some bandages to apply. While applying the bandages Clyde was able to inspect her body himself and noticed several scars unrelated to the forest but it gave him insight as to how bad she was treated. After all despite being a slave himself at one point he would have been considered lucky. Once he was done Bell asked him a question.


    "You mentioned yourself that the woods are dangerous so... why are you here then?"


    There was a long answer he could have given the girl but why would he openly tell someone he just met everything about himself, after all he''s not even one hundred percent sure of her himself.


    "I''ve taken a request."


    "A job request that required you to be out here. There is not an amount of treasure in the world that could convince me. That being said what is it you''re trying to do."


    ''She sure is pushy''


    "I''m hunting a monster. A monster has been killing animals and a few known humans at this point."


    Bell stayed silent before replying.


    "Are you perhaps looking for help?"


    Dumbfounded Clyde knew she was a little uninformed but to blatantly ask such a question especially after what she had been through stunned him.


    "I don''t know what you''re looking for but it isn''t involved with me. The best I can do for you is get you to the nearest village safely but after that you are on your own."


    "You can''t just expect me to go out into the world by myself do you?"


    "Honestly I don''t really care what happens as long as you get out of these woods safely."


    "You cared enough about me not to sleep last night."


    ''Well it''s quite the opposite but I wouldn''t let her know that.''


    "Listen we will go over the final details of our relationship at a later date because as of this moment we are wasting time. Time I value because what I''m looking for is healing itself and getting away. Unfortunately I can''t just leave you here alone so you''re coming with me out of these woods."


    Bell nodded and followed Clyde outside of the cabin. Once they were outside Clyde stopped and Bell waited for him to move again. He closed his eyes feeling the forest''s movement. Despite being deep inside the woods there was a boon of luck. The area they were in had moved closer to the edge making the trip about and hour away with the guidance of Clyde. With the mapping out of the way Clyde started to move in a direction.


    "I don''t wanna be asking you so many questions but what did you just do? I mean you stood still and breathed really weird just to pick a direction."


    Clyde didn''t even realize he was in the presence of the girl when he used his attunement. This annoyed him as it''s generally a bad idea for information as sensitive as that to get leaked. Luckily for him she wasn''t a threat to this knowledge.


    "I was using my senses."


    "Your senses? Well as long as we get out of here I don''t really care what you used"


    ''This girl really doesn''t know a thing. Or at least she''s not letting on that she does.''


    Using the guidance of Clyde''s magic attunement the pair navigated the ever changing forest for 30 minutes until Clyde halted with a serious look on his face.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "The monster I''ve been looking for.. it''s following us."

 Chapter 2: Hide and Seek

    Chapter 2 - Hide and SeekBells face went pale.


    "How do you know?"


    "The shadows aren''t moving correcty, and on that note do you not feel the sense of cold surrounding the two of us?"


    "Now that you mention it I guess I do. How are we supposed to fight it?"


    Clyde stared blankly at Bell wondering if she had limits to her insanity. Just who was she really? Despite her past she seemed ready to throw herself back into the fight with no caution for her own well being.


    "We don''t fight it, after all I my previous encounter with it wasn''t memorable in the slightest. Plus with you here the only option we have is to hide and possibly set up an ambush."


    Bell looked downward and without another word Clyde picked her up to carry on his back. They had been moving at a slow pace in hopes that her injuries wouldn''t open up but they no longer had the luxury.


    Clyde once again closed his eyes to focus on his surroundings. But this time something was interfering with his ability, unfortunately he had to make a decision that would affect his life and another''s without his typical magic sense he had grown accustomed to.


    Trusting his gut, Clyde transversed the forest almost stumbling over himself on several occasions as if the roots from trees were trying to take him down. Despite his magic disappearing at a time like this he knew the Wendigo was getting closer because its whispers were growing louder in his mind.


    ''Can I just get a break for one moment!''


    As if answering his thoughts and opening appeared before his and Bells eyes leading to an exit. However upon going through the clearing was a tall stone wall. It was a dead end.


    Turning around Clyde looked back at the forest they escaped from to hear silence. He didn''t know what could''ve been worse. As he was getting ready to put Bell down she noticed something.


    "To our left a little ways looks like an opening to an abandoned mine."


    When he looked over and saw what she was talking about it all became clear. They were being led here by the creature and that''s where it wanted them to go. It was the middle of the day which explains why it wanted them to go into a dark dungeon, more likely than not it''s nesting grounds. Clyde''s face twisted into a strange grin.


    ''Perfect.''


    Clyde sat Bell down and unsheathed his silver sword. He had decided this was the best option for the most hopeful outcome.


    "What happened to not fighting it?"


    "Plans change, and on that note stand against the wall and shut up until this is done. If it looks bad then run and pray that we are close the exit of the forest."


    With Bell behind him Clyde dedicated him self to the only task at hand, survival. Thoughts were going racing through his head but above all else was the primal sense to live at all cost. After all he wasn''t going to break his promise to himself in a place like this.


    Breaking the silence in the air the leaves rustled. If it wasn''t for the return of his magic senses just now Clyde''s head would have been torn off. In that moment Clyde turned his back to the forest with a defensive stance toward the stone wall above him. Coming from the top of the wall was the Wendigo diving toward Clyde. With not time to react at all Clyde tripped on himself falling back but out of way of the creature.


    ''Not good.''


    Not exactly as planned but Clyde did manage to survive the surprise attack from above. Before Clyde could react the Wendigo jumped to the nearest tree and angled itself for another diving attack. Still on his back Clyde grabbed his Silver sword and preemptively struck upward to where the creature would be diving to. Despite seeing the weapon this was a creature who would risk everything in the moment to satiate its hunger and dived towards Clyde''s counter attack.


    Clyde''s blade did not pierce the Wendigo but he managed to parry it off him allowing himself a chance to stand up. That was strike two and he knew this needed to end fast before he made a mistake.


    Both Clyde and the beast stood across each other on the open ground. Bell was visibly distraught at the sight of such a thing as she hadn''t seen this thing in all of its terror hidden by the nights darkness. Standing at four meters tall with curved knife like fingers the average person might very well have a heart attack at the sight.


    It lunged at incredible speed toward Clyde and in the moment Clyde sidestepped to the right but it was too late. A sharp pain on his left arm filled his body with despair. He knew if he looked at the damage right now he could faint and taking his eyes off the beast would be death anyway.


    The only thing keeping strength in his left arm was adrenaline and that would run out soon. This time he would go in for a feint putting the rest of his strength into one attack. Hopefully it would be enough to kill it or at least severely injure it so that Bell could escape.


    As he turned towards the monstrosity it was on all four of its limbs and so Clyde appeared to raise his sword for an overhead slash. As expected the creature would lunge at him so before committing to the slash he carried the motion of the sword to the ground in an attempt to impale it downward. This was easier said than done as the sword went into the creatures shoulder piercing all the way to the dirt.


    ''Could''ve been worse''


    Pulling the sword up out of it would be a big risk but before Clyde could make a decision of what to do next the Wendigo stood tall with the blade still through its body. He knew that it would be in pain but also knew that the pain of its hunger was greater. Now Clyde had no weapon near him and an agitated enemy.


    It let out a huge scream that could be heard from at least a few miles. Clyde had already decided that he needed to lure it away from Bell so he sprinted toward the forest. He knew that outrunning the creature was pointless but perhaps he could use the forest to his advantage. It''s times like these that Clyde wished he inherited a different magic type but thinking that way would only get you so far. Before he or the creature got far in the forest a cry was heard and unfortunately he knew it was that stupid girl.


    ''Is she trying to get herself killed!? I told her to run and she didn''t. I guess I don''t get to die a selfless death afterall.''


    The Wendigo turned around following the girls call. Clyde was a little confused that it had the audacity to leave him but he would repay the favor momentarily. Bell was still standing next to the stone wall with her hands over her face.


    "Bell if you got any tricks now''s the time!" Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As the Wendigo was in the air lunging at the girl a bright yellow wall erected from the ground directly in front of her causing the monster to slam head first into it.


    "Yes!"


    ''She is full of suprises but judging from her bodies condition we won''t see that again this fight, but that was all the time I needed.''


    Clyde was able to catch up to the now fallen Wendigo and without needing to think it through he grabbed the hilt of the sword from the back side of the creature and swung upward causing the right shoulder to be hanging on by I thread. Following that before it could react he cut the head clean off.


    Looking over at Bell she was unconscious as it seems what she did wasn''t intentional and rather a fluke. He would need to ask her later but he was glad she didn''t die. Judging from the color she the action itself she seemed adept to some type of miracles.


    At this point Clyde felt the full severity of his cut from early and realized he might pass out soon. Reaching into his satchel he spread some bone dust on the corpse and put his finger to it emitting a small flame torching it. With that done and his conscious clear he checked the wanted poster in his satchel and saw his name written in a gold light. With a sigh of relief he fell over and passed out.


    ***


    Clyde awoke to darkness but before panic got the chance to take over him Bell addressed him.


    "You''re alive it seems."


    "Thanks to you we both were able to live."


    "I don''t really know what you''re talking about as when I woke up I saw the corpse burning and you on the ground next to it."


    ''So she doesn''t know, now isn''t the time to bring it up as there are more important matters like our location.''


    "Where are we?"


    "Well the sun was setting and instead of being out there I dragged you with me to the mines."


    ''I can''t blame her but we are lucky to be alive.''


    "Do you know how much time has passed?"


    "I couldn''t tell you exactly but it must have been several hours."


    Clyde knew that despite it being night they were far more likely to survive out there than in here. So he began to wrap his arm up with the remaining bandages in his satchel which was pretty much empty since the trip began.


    "We are leaving."


    "Are you sure that''s a good idea, you seem pretty hurt."


    "We have no choice unless you plan to become food to a slumbering titan mouse horde."


    She wasn''t really sure if what he was talking about was real or not but it was clear he was leaving either way so she took his word.


    "I''m ready when you are."

 Chapter 3: Dark

    Chapter 3 - DarkWithout wasting time Bell guided Clyde to the entrance of the Mines, after a short minute they reached the entrance but it was so dark outside it was hard to distinguish the mines from the forest. Clyde did not underestimate the severity of the situation, one wrong decision and they would both die. Bells condition was stable enough at this point to move on her own without the need to carry her in order to move at a fast pace.


    "In a moment we are going to run and when we do you need to stay as close to me as possible. If we do get seperated stay still and I will come back for you."


    Before anything else Clyde attempted to locate the direction of the exit. In common with the recent strings of bad luck they had move very far away. Next Clyde remembered the cabin and decided it was their next best effort. Judging from his senses the shack was about 10 minutes away assuming they didn''t run into anything stopping them.


    "Are you ready?"


    "Yes."


    They ran into the darkness sticking as close together as possible. Noises from all directions could be heard and a sense of dread filled the bout of them. It always felt as though something or someone was watching them with no sense of privacy. Clyde came to a halt causing Bell to run into the back of him. They didn''t fall over because Clyde had cemented himself into the ground using the strength he had left not to move. In front of him was a headless demon.


    ''If that thing notices our presence we are as good as dead''


    Bell started to make a sound but Clyde grabbed her hand tightly. The demon looked over in their direction with some deep cackling noises. After a few seconds it went back to picking the bark off of a tree. Clyde started to move backward with Bell backpedaling at the same pace as Clyde, both of their hands still connected.


    By the time they were six steps away from the demon it seemed that fate had already decided their destiny. A large crow swooped in from the sky landing in front of the two and began to caw.


    ''Damn bird!''


    The headless demon moved at incredible speed for its mountain like figure and closed the gap between itself and the bird crushing it under its feet. Now only a few feet away Clyde felt the overwhelming pressure that was making him feel nauseous, almost has if there was a barrier in front of him. He knew Bell was feeling something similar and wouldn''t be suprised if she felt even worse.


    Reaching its hand out to where Clyde was standing, Clyde mentally prepared himself for an exchange. As the finger was a hair away something stepped on a branch causing a loud crunch sound. Just like before the demon appeared to have vanished in front of them toward the direction of the loud snap.


    ''Now''s our chance.''


    Making sure to still have a hold of Bell, Clyde began to detour from the original path planned to account for the demon. While on the move he tried to sense the fastest route to take but just like last time he couldn''t use his senses properly. It clicked in his head and he let go of Bell. His abilities were coming back to him. This new revelation left Clyde with a lot of questions about this girl and her own abilities.


    "Clyde?"


    "Sorry, just give me a moment."


    He understood the next step of the plan memorizing it in his head and then grabbed Bell again. Without interruption they safely made it to the abandoned shack.


    "What in gods name was that thing?!"


    "Just because we are in some shelter doesn''t give you the excuse to be loud. Remember where we are and don''t forget."


    "You didn''t answer my question."


    "Hellspawn."


    Despite Bell living a closed off life from society this far even someone like her knew what a Hellspawn was. Over the past two decades the region of Cieder has fell victim to the plague of demons surfacing. With the arrival of Demons and creatures from other worlds came the magic awakening.


    Disrupting the tention in the room Bell''s stomach let out a growl.


    "Sorry.. I haven''t ate in quite sometime."


    Clyde himself hasn''t ate in roughly three days and was starving as well. He couldn''t help but notice how frail she was. What was even more strange about her than he realized at first was her crimson hair. Almost no one from Cieder had her characteristics. More and more questions surrounded the girl than he could have ever imagined.


    "Who are you really?"


    "What do you mean?"


    "Do you have any memory of what happened before you passed out earlier?"


    "No, as I told you before."


    "You performed a magic spell with an atunement I''ve never seen before that allowed you to survive and me to kill the thing."


    Clyde could tell he struck a nerve as Bell was visably agitated.


    "If I had awakened do you think I would have remained a slave for so long?"


    "All I''m saying is that you confuse me on multiple levels but it seems there is a lot you''re not aware of about yourself."


    "So you find me strange also, I thought that perhaps it was just the people I''ve been accustomed to but even a stranger is gets a weird feeling from me."


    Clyde was considered an outcast himself so he knew how she felt. Despite wanting to make her feel better he was incapable of such a feat.


    "Let''s just get some rest for now and we will finally get out of here in the morning."


    Without another word the two tried their best to get some sleep.


    ***


    When light broke the windows onto Clyde''s face he awoke. Looking over he saw Bell still fast asleep. It was time to get out of here immediately.


    "Bell it''s time."


    Clyde and Bell left the cabin behind them, once again entering the forest. To their suprise upon opening the door, they were already on the outer rim of the labyrinth like forest. Perhaps their misfortune had started to turn around.


    "This makes things easier." sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Where are we going now?"


    "I''ll take you with me to Galon and we will go our separate way from there. It''s a relatively safe town and I imagine you could find some work."


    "What about you?"


    "I''m going to turn in the bounty and head eastward, I''ll even give you a cut for your contribution even though you don''t remember it."


    "How do you think you''ll survive without me if I saved you once already."


    ''Well I don''t think I would have been in that position if it wasn''t for you!''


    "I''ll manage."


    Following a cobble road the two made it two a small intersection with signs detailing the directions toward various towns and cities including Galon. Continuing down the road they eventually passed several travelers who would give strange glances toward Bell. It was likely because of her hair but Clyde also realized she didn''t really have proper attire of a working person. The affect of these people were negatively impacting Bell and it showed. Clyde typically wouldn''t give it a second thought but he had grown a soft spot over the person who had saved his life.


    "Before we go our completely seperate ways I''ll see to it that you are properly prepared to be on your own."


    "What are you implying?"


    Clyde felt like he had fallen for an obvious trap and was unsure of how to proceed.


    "Well.. you know, your clothes-"


    "I''ll do fine thank you, you''ve made it clear already you wish to be rid of me."


    Clyde felt guilty looking back, he was a little harsh but that''s just a result of how harsh life has been on him. Or at least that''s how he''s justifying his behavior nowadays.


    After several hours had went by Clyde and Bell had made it to the gates of Galon.

 Chapter 4: Galon

    Chapter 4 - GalonGalon was one of Cieder''s many smaller cities. Despite that fact, its popularity was rising steadily due to the guild station recently constructed. With the new found revenue, the city had invested in its infrastructure creating a beautiful sight to see. Clyde could tell that Bell probably hasn''t seen something on this scale in her lifetime. The look on her face reminded him of the time that he and his sister visited the city long ago.


    "Hey Bell, I''ll show you around the city before I leave, so let''s get a move toward a clothing store."


    An annoyed Bell let out a grunt and followed Clyde''s lead.


    The numerous amount of people staring at Bell confirmed that Clyde was right that she needed proper clothing to fit in. Eventually reaching the store Clyde handed Bell some coins from his satchel.


    "Go in there and pick what ever you want. I''ll be waiting outside."


    After ten minutes passed Bell came out of the store in an outfit looking much similar to his own. The dark colored leather chest and leggings looked strangely familiar on her. What really stood out was her cloak, it was far to big for someone of her size.


    "What are you staring at."


    Clyde hadn''t realized how silly he probably looked spacing out while glaring at her.


    "It seems you''ve taken your look after me."


    "I just picked what looked comfortable." S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Alright then, now that that''s taking care of let''s go get our reward."


    This was the first time Clyde had ever split a bounty. He didn''t really think much of it but once they got inside of the Guild Hall many people were suprised to see him accompanied. A tall bulky man ran over to Clyde once they reached the center of the floor.


    "Cliff!! Long time no see, why don''t you introduce me to the little lady."


    "Asshat!! Unfortunately we won''t be here long so there is not a need for you to learn her name."


    "My name is Assat."


    "Yeah and mine is Clyde not Cliff."


    Bell interjected in the foolishness


    "My name is Bell."


    "Well Bell, if you ever need a good time-"


    Clyde shot Assat a dirty look warning him not to say anything further. Afterwards Assast excused himself going back to where he came from.


    "Sorry about him, he''s an idiot."


    "So they grow in pairs it seems."


    It took a minute for Clyde to register what she meant, but if he brought it up now it would make him seem stupid.


    An old man came down to greet Clyde with excitement.


    "Is it done, did you kill it?"


    "Yes that''s why I''ve came back."


    "Mary was a good woman... may she rest in peace."


    Bell looked a little confused by what he meant. She didn''t realize what a wendigo in nature was and Clyde wasn''t going to tell her right now.


    "Follow me to my desk and I will get your payment."


    The three walked upstairs following the man into his room. Opening up a safe he handed Clyde twenty silver coins.


    "Here you are."


    Clyde thanked the older man and left the room with Bell.


    Outside Clyde handed Bell her half.


    "Twenty silver coins was what the reward was for a monster like that?"


    "To be honest it could''ve been a little higher but that was an off the books contract."


    "Even yet that thing almost killed both of us."


    "I know it doesn''t seem like it but that wouldn''t even be considered a dangerous job to the average hunter."


    "I don''t mean to be rude but if you are so weak why would you put yourself in danger like this?"


    Her words stung more than she could have known. Clyde understood he wasn''t capable of producing the same results as other hunters. His magical "awakening" disappointed no one more than himself.


    "A commitment I made to myself."


    Bell didn''t press any further once she realized it was a sensitive subject.


    When they left the Guild Hall the sun was already setting.


    "Let''s go eat."


    Clyde took Bell to a food stand and ordered a strange looking kebab. They were so hungry they didn''t care what type of food it was.


    Once that was taken care of Clyde was mentally preparing to formulate a proper goodbye, but before he had the chance Bell spoke first.


    "I haven''t gotten the proper chance to thank you yet and I don''t believe I ever will. It''s also clear to me that you don''t talk to a lot of people so I''ll make this easy for the both of us."


    To shocked to speak Clyde watched as the girl he had grown accustomed to stood up and left waving him goodbye.


    ''Well I guess that''s taken care of.''


    Alone with his thoughts Clyde was finally able to get back to the task at hand. With his new found income he could afford a train ticket to the East. If he learned anything from his last hunt it''s that he was weaker than he initially thought.


    Clyde couldn''t help but think back to Bell''s words regarding his weaknesses.


    ''One day she will see my name plastered as humanity''s savior.''


    A foolish thought, Clyde cringed at his child like arrogance.


    Both of the kebabs costed him one silver coin leaving nine left over. He could afford the ticket to Avalor with 8 silver coins.


    ''Not exactly optimal change but I''ll have to make due.''


    Finding his way through Galon he purchased the ticket for the train that leaves first thing in the morning.


    ''Cabin B, not too shabby.''


    Unfortunately his remaining silver left him without lodging. As much as Clyde wanted a good nights rest he wouldn''t be getting one tonight.


    ***


    Waking up on the damp grass underneath a bridge alongside the outskirts of Galon, one might think Clyde was a troll.


    On his way to train station the last call for boarding could be heard. Using what he could of his magical abilities Clyde enhanced his speed rushing to his destination. Just in time, he showed the conducter his ticket and boarded the train.


    Eventually arriving to his cabin, Clyde opened the door completely out of breath.


    "You''re late."


    In front of him was none other than Bell herself. Deep inside Clyde was glad to see her.

 Chapter 5: Revelation

    Chapter 5 - Revelation"How did you know I''d be on this train?"


    "Well, you did mention something about heading east and I couldn''t possibly forget how early you got up. I also needed to go this way to meet someone so it worked out."


    Clyde wondered if she was heading all the way to Avalor as he was himself. Assuming that nothing crazy were to take place, the train would arrive in two days time.


    Tired from last nights sleeping condition, Clyde prepared to get some rest in the cabin for a few hours.


    This task was easier said then done. Within a few minutes Bell was asking him questions.


    "So why are you going to the East?"


    "I''m meeting an acquaintance."


    "Are trains usually this guarded?"


    Clyde didn''t realize it when he arrived because he was in a rush. There were far more guard men on patrol than normal.


    "Now that you mention it, no it''s not."


    Standing up to leave and investigate, Clyde left Bell in the cabin alone.


    Traveling through the carts he made his way to the trains bar. At the bar was a man taller than anyone surrounding him, with several guards near him. Looking at the guys shirt Clyde noticed an imperial insignia. This man was someone from the kings court.


    The change in security made sense but for some reason, Clyde felt uncomfortable.


    ''What about this guy is my head trying to tell me?''


    Deciding to get some answers, Clyde approached a passenger to ask some questions.


    "Sorry to bother you."


    "No problem, what do you need?"


    "Could you tell me that gentleman''s name over there?"


    "You mean you don''t know? That''s the newly elected memeber of King Nell''s council, Rodney Black."


    "Thank you, have a good day."


    Left to his thoughts he began to trace his memory.


    ''Rodney... Rodney Black. That''s so familiar to me.''


    Not wanting to cause awareness he went back toward his cabin. Halfway there he ran into Bell who was headed in his direction.


    "I was wondering what you were doing?"


    "The security is here because of some royal big shot. Nothing out of the ordinary, although I do get a weird feeling from him. At the very least a weird feeling about this ride."


    A dark stare came across Bells face. It was such a powerful look that Clyde was honestly frighted for a moment.


    "Did you catch the name?"


    Baffled at how quick she returned to a normal expression, Clyde fumbled his words.


    "Rod.. Rodney Black I believe it was."


    "Oh I see, well then. I''m gonna go explore the train some more since I''ve never been on one before. I''ll meet you back at the cabin some time."


    Heading to the cabin, Clyde would finally get to indulge in a proper sleep. Falling onto the makeshift bed on his side of the room, his eyes shut.


    A knock on the door startled Clyde.


    ''Seriously!''


    "Good evening sir, would you like any complimentary foods and beverages? A selection of items are being given away to guest as a form of goodwill thanks to Lord Black."


    ''Since I''m awake again I might as well get some drink.''


    "Do you have water?"


    "Yes sir."


    Grabbing the water from the servant Clyde grew more weary of this so called councilman. This was the second time he was brought up in casual conversation and yet there was something Clyde was missing.


    Despite his countless feelings the idea of sleeping felt much more powerful. With further distractions he fell back into darkness.


    ***


    Hours passed by until it was already the afternoon. Clyde would have continue sleeping for several more hours if it was not for the arrival of Bell.


    "It''s time to get up Clyde you''re gonna miss the gathering. That Rodney guy is gonna be paying for everyone''s food and I know you''re as broke as I am."


    ''Can''t argue with that logic.''


    "Alright lead the way."


    Making there way through the now crowded compartments of the train, the two reaching the dining hall. As they managed to find open seats the Lord of the hour was finishing up his speech.


    "-and if it wasn''t for people like you, this nation would be no better than the fools in Helin!"


    This got a loud cry of laughter from the passengers. Helin was a neighboring nation that started and lost a war with Cider. Obviously Clyde knew that there was no such thing as a victor as both nations were still recovering. The only reason they lost was because of the demonic invasion began in their land first.


    The train started to halt as the conductors voice appeared through the speakers.


    "Attention all guest, we will be stopping momentarily for a routine check up. We are expecting to get back on track in about fifteen minutes. I must ask that you stay inside the train and refrain from exploring outside. We will not be announcing the resumption of our departure."


    After a clicking noise from the intercom Clyde felt sick and was unable to continue eating. Bell was pigging out as this type of food was still a delicacy to her.


    "Hey Bell, I''m gonna head back to the cabin."


    "Alright."


    Traveling the compartments as everyone was still eating Clyde noticed something that caught his eyes from the window. Two of Rodney''s guards were carrying several dark bags that appeared heavy. Things weren''t adding up so despite the warning from the conductor, Clyde opened one of the exit doors to follow them.


    Tracking their footsteps downhill he was able to catch up. The two men stopped in front of a hole that was about six feet wide and nine foot deep. One of them sat his bags down and kicked them into the hole. The other guard just dropped them with his hands. Still hiding Clyde waited for the two to head back up the hill. Once they were gone Clyde walked over to the hole and jumped in.


    Hearing a strange crunch on his landing, he began to open up one of the bags.


    After a minute he finally untangled the not and peeked inside.


    ''Oh god.''


    Clyde already felt sick from what he ate but the sight of the contents in the bag had brought him to a new level.


    It was a body. The bag he looked into wasn''t just in random person but of the servant who gave him the water earlier. Judging by the remains it looked as if the guy had been tortured for weeks. Claw marks and gnashes in various places, as well as a few limbs missing. He was missing an eyeball to top it all off.


    After a second Clyde realized what he was standing on. All of these bags, at least five, were all human remains. Climbing out of the pit he wasn''t sure what to do with this information. Those guards definitely knew what was in the bags and they worked for Rodney. He needed to get answers and fast after all, everyone in the train could be in danger.


    Before he had to look for the guards, one was on his way down the hill with another bag. Unable to hid in time the guard stopped in his tracks dropping the body. He turned around to run back to the train but Clyde was fast and brought him down on his stomach.


    Flipping him over to his back the guard was in fear of his life.


    "Is your Lord responsible for these crimes!?"


    "I can''t te.. tell you anything or he will kill me and my family."


    "If you don''t tell me I''ll kill you now and make sure your family knows of your involvement. In fact on the count of four I''ll start tearing off limbs to match those bodies unless you talk."


    At this point the guard looked like he was going to pass out any second and started talking.


    "Do you promise you won''t kill me if I tell you?"


    "I won''t kill you but you''re not getting back on that train today."


    "He is a beast. I don''t know how to describe it because I''ve never seen it, I just get what''s left. Me and the other guy just do what we are told."


    ''Rodney did this himself? He''s no wendigo that''s clear. Judging from the sheer carnage and bloodbath he is not a vampire either. This leaves one option that I can think of.''


    "A werewolf..."


    "What?"


    "Nothing forget it, you are gonna have nice little nap."


    "Wait! I''m not sure how strong you think you are but you are no match for something like the Lord."


    "Regardless I can''t let weakness be an excuse for punishment on the innocent."


    Knocking the man out Clyde returned to the train right before it was about to take off again. Making his way to his cabin he hoped to find Bell there to warn her.


    Approaching the entrance to the cabin Clyde opened the doors to see Bell asleep on her side of room.


    "Wake up it''s important."


    "What is it?"


    "I need you to be careful of the Lord I have reason to believe he is a werewolf."


    "Oh my god what happened!?"


    "I''ll explain later, but for now stay inside and lock the door. It''s me if I knock five times."


    As he left the room he turned around and immediately bumped into someone.


    "Excuse me, do you have any idea who I am!" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In front of Clyde was Lord Black.

 Chapter 6: Encounter

    Chapter 6 - EncounterIt took everything in Clyde''s power to not let his fear by noticeable.


    A dark thought popped up in Clyde''s head.


    ''I could just kill him now.''


    Taking only a second he looked around him and noticed that this section of the cart was empty for now. Regardless fighting him here and now could pose risk. Even if he managed to kill him what would he do with the body. Before Clyde could finishing thinking about what to do his thoughts were interrupted.


    "Are you deaf?"


    "Sorry about that my Lord."


    Moving out of the way and without another word, Lord Black continued on his way. Noticing he was without guards a suspicion grew in Clyde''s mind.


    ''Where is he going all alone?''


    After a moment Clyde began to follow the tall man. Passing through several compartments Clyde suddenly halted. In front of him the Lord sat with a strange figure that he was unable to properly comprehend. Perhaps it was due to the persons magical capabilities. The two exchanged something that Clyde could not see and suprisingly the figure disappeared into thin air.


    A cold chill lingered in the air.


    The compartment was empty and it was if a bad omen fell over Clyde.


    Beginning to turn around and leave Clyde was frozen.


    "Stop and sit down."


    Turning back toward the man he walked over and sat down across from him.


    "I''m afraid your chance to turn back is gone. Now you will need to die. But I must ask, was it worth it?"


    The origin of the Lord''s hostility was the strangest thing considering it was not over Clyde''s discovery, but rather what he had witnessed. Annoyed that he was discovered so easily Clyde realized he would need to work on his techniques.


    Noticing Clyde''s carefree attitude the Lord spoke up again.


    "Your intolerance will -"


    At that moment the Lord had no time to react as a blade was cutting in the direction of his neck. With barely any reaction time the Lord was narrowly able to dodge. He wasn''t unscathed as a deep wound appeared on his shoulder.


    An intense amount of steam was coming from Clyde''s body. A sense of panic overcame him as he realized his suprised attack was a failure. He put everything into that one motion using all of the essence in his body.


    "You''ve just made my job much easier."


    Towering above Clyde, the Lords wound was beginning to heal.


    Before another moment had passed the Lord swiftly thrusted his arm into Clyde''s chest ripping his heart out.


    ''What a fool I was. Dying this way... I won''t forgive myself.''


    His vision faded to black.


    ***


    Somewhere in a dark place a young man was opening his eyes. Looking at this desolute wasteland would come as a shock to anyone. But it really did for the man whose heart was just ripped out.


    ''How am I even alive?''


    That thought only lasted for a moment because no matter what he thought of he was dead. A big reminder was the hole in his chest.


    At first he didn''t even realize he wasn''t breathing and began to panic when he couldn''t inhale. But there was no need of course and after a minute or two he calmed down.


    After an unknown amount of time passed Clyde decided to walk in hopes of finding someone or something. He didn''t even know there was an afterlife or if he was in it.


    No matter how far he went the silence was always there. Life was nonexistent, there were no stars above him, only dread remained in this place.


    Time was incredibly hard to grasp in this place. Eventually Clyde started to develop paranoia. Reaching a new level of insanity all hope was lost. Of course it felt this way until he noticed a light in the distance.


    "Finally something!"


    Rushing toward the light like nothing else mattered in the world, hope began to arrive in Clyde''s heart once more.


    Approaching the light which was now recognized as a lantern of sorts, the disappointment returned. Next to the lantern was a piece of hardwood with carving in it.


    "Not here."


    When the words left Clyde''s mouth he suddenly felt very annoyed.


    "Well you could at least tell me where then!"


    ***


    Bell began to worry despite her friends reminder to stay in their booth. She wasn''t sure what she was expecting with his remarks about the Lord being a monster. But she knew who Clyde was or would like to think she knew at the very least.


    As more time passed she decided to take matters into her own hand and stepped out into the train.


    ''He must be around here somewhere.''


    At that moment the conductor used the trains microphone system to convey a message.


    "I''m sorry to inform you all of this but there was a viscous attack on a guest. Luckily Lord Black was on the scene immediately and has taken care of the perpetrator. We ask you to stay away from the train cart at the end of the south side with the impeding investigation. With no more delays we will be arriving to Avalor tomorrow morning."


    ''Clyde is in trouble.''


    Thanks to the conductor telling her exactly where everything went down she knew where to check first. Approaching the end of the train a crowd of people were surrounding the open door. Squeezing her way through she gasped looking at the amount of blood on the floor.


    For all she knew that was the Lords blood but it seemed unlikely, especially considering what Clyde suspected him of being.


    ''I''m out of my depth here.''


    Figuring it was best to let Clyde do Clyde things she made her way back to the cabin but froze while overhearing two guards.


    "Be on the lookout, Lord Black said the man''s body just evaporated into nothing."


    "Are you crazy or just an idiot, the guy is definitely dead if something like that happened."


    Not wanting to be noticed she continued on her way.


    Eventually she made her way back and opened the cabin doors. As she opened them Bell went pale. Lord black was standing in the middle of her and Clyde''s cabin.


    "Can I help you?"


    "Sorry to intrude on your privacy it''s just that your roommate was a man of great danger. You were very lucky that I encountered him before he did anything to you."


    It took a lot to not show her anger or worry sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh well I feel much safer now that a fiend like him has been taken care of."


    "It was my pleasure, however I must take my leave as there was nothing of worth in this cabin. Do take care of yourself."


    Moving out of the way, Bell was left alone.


    She couldn''t help but notice a small red stain on the floor where the Lord was standing.

 Chapter 7: Dust

    Chapter 7 - DustBecause the passage of time was unclear in this new realm Clyde found himself in, it was impossible to know how much time has passed.


    After awhile Clyde found himself pondering if time was also passing in the world he came from. Thinking about that for too long caused him to worry about Bell and what trouble the Lord would create.


    The worry quickly vanished as his own reality was brought to his attention. For the first time since his arrival Clyde saw a living being. Or at least he thought it was alive.


    In front of Clyde was a small frog. The grey pattern on it almost made it indistinguishable from the ground. The sky was still pitch black with no sign of changing.


    However must curiously the ground has became softer acting like a form of sand or snow. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Clyde stood still watching the frog with a curious intent. Before long it began to burry itself into the ground. What stuck out to Clyde was the fact that it seemed as if the frog was trying to protect itself.


    Turning around Clyde was frozen with terror. A wall of some grey bleak substance was headed in his direction. Pretty soon he could feel specs of whatever it was hitting him. This caused another question to appear, why was his spectral body being affected.


    Could he die... again?


    Touching the substance as it was falling on his hands he noticed it was the same as the floor below him.


    It was dust.


    The wall coming his direction was a duststorm.


    If he could die again he was not about to find out.


    Looking around once more there was just small hills and plains of dust no matter where he turned.


    ''Just my luck, I''m dead, stuck in some trashy place and now I have to embrace a storm.''


    Well it''s not like he knew he would die but at minimum it wouldn''t be pleasant.


    Running in the opposite direction as fast as he could, Clyde was glad to not be limited by his humanity because he couldn''t run out of breath if he couldn''t breathe.


    Although he couldn''t run out of breath a part of him felt like slowing down but he couldn''t quite figure out what made him feel that way. Perhaps his very essence was being drained when exerting himself in this form.


    Before another moment passed his foot suddenly sunk into the ground pulling him downward.


    Sinking deeper and deeper into the ground until all that remained was his head, Clyde started to hold his breathe forgetting again that he doesn''t need oxygen.


    ***


    At this point Clyde would rather be dead than alive. Unable to move and detached from all senses his mind was rapidly deteriorating.


    Eventually his feet felt free and he could wiggle them. Slowly more and more of his body was coming out. By the time his arms were free he pushed himself out of the soft spot finally gaining freedom.


    Looking around there wasn''t much to see besides total darkness.


    Wandering around aimlessly Clyde''s despair grew deeper despite his new freedom. Everything going on made no sense at all. He had never heard of a place like this. Was he in purgatory? It would be so easy to just stop and give up.


    Feeling of the hole in his chest Clyde wondered if this was his punishment for breaking his promise. He wasn''t allowed to see his sister in the afterlife. If god existed they were cruel.


    All he couldn''t think about during this time was his serious misfortunes. He was born during a time of anguish, Hell decided to invade his realm, his family was slaughtered and the only reason he lived was because he was a coward. On top of that he was given an impractical aspect that boosted his physical abilities. Which seemed fine until he realized that what he was up against was beyond reason.


    ''I couldn''t even die right.''


    "Some people are trying to get some rest but your needless whining is interrupting that."


    Clyde was so startled by this voice he didn''t know what to say.


    "Is someone there?"


    "No you''re just going insane."


    "Where are we?"


    "Questions and questions, did you ignore my first statement."


    "I''m sorry if I''m concerned because -"


    "I know why your concerned I''ve been hearing your thoughts since you arrived."


    A strong flame appeared in the underground area Clyde found himself in. Across from him and on the other side of the flame was a man with silver hair resting on his shoulders. He was dressed in clothing Clyde had never seen before. It must have been some fancy robe worthy of a palace dweller.


    "I am Orion and this is my home you have entered."


    "Why would anyone choose to live in this place?"


    "Well if I''m being honest I was banished here, but that''s not important. What is important, however, is the fact that you somehow made your way into this realm."


    "It''s not like a chose to be here. I just died and before I knew it I appeared. Eventually after god knows how long I fell into a sinkhole and here we are."


    Orion seemed to already know this but there was a glimmer in his eyes when Clyde mentioned that he died.


    "You said you died. Now you are here. How curious indeed. Luck is on your side after all Deathwalker."


    "Deathwalker...? You call this luck please explain."


    "For starters a Deathwalker is someone like you, torn from life and rejected from death. You are lucky because you are able to leave this place. Additionally this will be a boon to myself. Leaving this place will cost you though."


    "Cost me what exactly?"


    Orions aloof attitude and demeanor dropped instantly. A cold chill could be strongly felt despite Clyde''s spectral state.


    "Everything.... and nothing really. That sounded ominous but really it just means you''ll owe me a favor at some point. You would also be unable to refuse the favor when it''s called upon. But after that you would be free. To sweeten the deal I recall you felt powerless, well I can give you power."


    "What is the favor?"


    "Unfortunately I can''t tell you that but I will admit that the deal is much more in your favor than it is mine. After all I would be losing a power of mine if I gave it to you."


    "Are you even a human?"


    "So many questions and so little answers. It really is just a yes or no deal Clyde. To answer your question I am in fact a human. Well that''s not exactly true but I am a human in nature, I''ve just... meddled in affairs above our head which is how I ended up here in the first place."


    "I''m sorry but I can''t except this deal, my gut is telling me I would deeply regret this decision later."


    The flame inbetween them vanished leaving only darkness between them.


    "You are an utter fool. Are you referring to the same gut instinct that likely got you in here in the first place? Regardless it is as you wish, the deal will not be happening. And now you will come to regret this decision instead."


    Before Clyde could realize what happened it was if time froze. He could feel his entire body begin to fly upward and into the dust ceiling. The pain where his heart used to be exploded in excruciating agony.


    A second later he was already in the sky in the midst of the duststorm. Even then he was flying so far and fast that he quickly couldn''t see anything but a blur in his surronding. Clyde did notice that there was a sudden change in the color of the blur.


    At that moment there was an intense blow to Clyde back as he came to a sudden stop. If he wasn''t already dead he imagined he would have exploded at the force.


    Looking around him it was clear he must have traveled very far because aside from the dirt hole he found himself in, all around him was full of grass and trees.


    ''Am I home? No I doubt it because that wicked monster wouldn''t have taken me there for free.''


    At that moment all of the exhaustion had caught up with Clyde and he began to pass out. Before he did though he heard something strange.


    ''Is somebody... humming?''

 Chapter 8: Forgotten

    Chapter 8 - ForgottenAs his body began to wake up Clyde felt a sharp pain in his head. His vision was blurry and it was unclear where he was. For a moment he believe everything that had occurred up until now was a strange nightmare. The hole in his chest quickly reminded him that wasn''t the case.


    Eventually he could properly see his surroundings and he found himself in a structure that he could relate to. The architecture resembled that of his homeland in Carlsbane. Standing up he headed toward a balcony in the room to look outside.


    The landscape was a vast wilderness. To his suprised it appeared to be daytime which was a stark contrast to the place he had just came from. Looking upward however would only bring more questions. At some point the skyline broke from a bright blue sight to a darkness. Reliving what had transpired Clyde remembered he was flying upward and suddenly crashed into the ground.


    None of this made any sense but no matter how hard he tried to puzzle the events in his head to reason, he had to accept that the land of dust was above. Some unknown force must have been separating the two lands.


    It was unclear why the light couldn''t be seen when he was on the other side, but that didn''t matter anymore. Turning around back into the room Clyde moved toward a door. Upon turning the knob it was clear the door was either locked or stuck.


    Before he could begin to worry the door opened itself.


    On the other side was an empty room with just a table and two chairs. An older man was sitting in one of the chairs looking straight at Clyde.


    "You are awake. That''s good after all I wasn''t sure if I was harboring a corpse in my home. Come and sit."


    Clyde wasn''t sure how to feel about the man but he also didn''t have the ability to do anything other than what he was told.


    Once he sat down across from the man Clyde was about to start asking questions but was beaten to it.


    "What brings a Deathwalker to Mira? The journey must have be long and difficult."


    "Where do I even start... my name is Clyde and I was a slayer who got my heart ripped out. Following that I awoke in some abysmal dusty place, only to meet a strange guy named Orion, who threw me to this side when I didn''t take his offer. I honestly don''t even know what a Deathwalker is or where Mira is."


    "So it''s you.. it''s been some time since our last meeting, you look very different after all."


    "I can confidently I have never seen you before."


    "And I could tell you that I know you better than anyone else in all of the realms. But that''s neither here or there. For now I must ask you a simple question. Do you want to return home."


    "If I can that would be great."


    "There is a cave not far from here and all you need to do enter it. Once inside you must reach the end of the cave and pass a simple trial. If you can do all of that you will be able to return to your land and gain some borrowed strength."


    "Borrowed strength?"


    The old man began to laugh deviously as if it was all so obvious.


    "Yes, but that''s all you need to know. It was nice seeing you again but time is short as I''m expecting another visitor. It would be great if you could avoid meeting that beast."


    "You keep saying we''ve met before but I don''t even know your name."


    "I''m just a forgotten nobody. Now leave."


    Clyde had no choice but to get up and exit the house. Not because he chose to but it was through the absolute authority the command put in his body.


    The moment he left the house he had regained control of his actions.


    As he began to turn around to contest the house was gone. Almost like it didn''t exist. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Turning back around once again, a dark opening in a mountain was several feet away.


    "This place is getting out of control."


    With nowhere else to go Clyde decided to trust the old man and enter the cave.


    A feeling deep within Clyde was growing. The feeling was indescribable but at best it was a feeling regarding his nature.


    It was as if his entire being was compelled to the darkest corner of the cave.


    Deeper and deeper into the cave Clyde began to hear noises. Small whispers, crawling, and scratching. At this point it was beginning to be dark enough that Clyde used a little essence to emit a small flame.


    Eventually there was a decent sized painting in front him. It looked like it was made yesterday with zero signs of deteriorating under the circumstances of its location. The painting depicted three pedestals, on the left pedestal was a chalice of water. The right pedestal had a chalice of overflowing darkness. The center had a chalice that appeared empty but surrounding it was small edgy yellow lines.


    As if the painting could tell that it was done being looked at, it rapidly aged to the point of collapsing into dust. Behind the paint was a narrow hallway with torches lined up on the wall. When Clyde stepped forward into the hallway they began to light on their own one by one.


    ''If I do make it back Bell would not believe what happened. Nobody would for that matter.''


    Reaching the end of the hallway was a door made of iron. Pushing on it lightly the door fell onto its back creating a loud noise as it hit the ground.


    Stepping on the door and moving beyond it was a circular room with light pouring in from the surface thanks to a medium sized hole in the ceiling. From Clyde''s judgment it didn''t seem that he was very deep in a mountain but time and space have already been thrown out the window in this realm. Once his eyes adjusted to the sudden influx of light, Clyde saw a familiar setting.


    The three pedestals from the paint were right in front of him. He would have thought that the trial would be choosing a correct chalice but that was proven wrong. Two of the chalices were gone as if they never existed or were already taken. The one remaining was the seemingly empty chalice in the middle.


    Clyde slowly walked over to the chalice and picked it up with his right hand.


    Nothing happened.


    ''Well that was strange''


    A thunderous crack was heard throughout the entire realm as a bolt of pure lightning was sent through the hole in the ceiling hitting Clyde.


    It happened so fast that there was no time to react at all. Dropping the chalice Clyde shrieked and fell to the floor.


    Strangely it didn''t hurt as bad as he would''ve thought.


    Standing up Clyde felt different about himself. Something changed but he couldn''t figure it out. Before he could test anything a voice spoke to him in his head.


    [The Trial of the Surge has been chosen]


    The melancholic voice disturbed Clyde greatly but there was no time asses any meaning.


    The location Clyde was in changed abruptly. There was no cave to be found anywhere. Instead Clyde was in an open field.


    Disoriented, Clyde fell onto his knees. Unfortunately there was no time to rest because company was arriving.


    The sounds of hooves could be heard galloping toward him. Looking up Clyde wasn''t sure what he was supposed to feel. A normal person would be scared or panicking. The only thing coming from his body was an unruffled certainty that something like this would happen.


    Three Minotaurs would be upon him soon.

 Chapter 9: Power

    Chapter 9 - PowerNot wishing to die... again, Clyde got off of his knees just before one of the three beast caught him. Each of them was wielding a different weapon. The one whose strike Clyde barely dodged was equipped with a Halbard. As the Minotaur struck the ground where Clyde was just at its halbard got stuck in the ground.


    Taking this opportunity, Clyde attempted to catch the Minotaur off guard. Instinctively he reached for his weapon forgetting he was defenseless. This moment costed him as the second Minotaur rushed into the fight. Equipped with a spear the Minotaur tried to impale Clyde. The spear was coming in so fast and with no time to react Clyde was sure he was getting hit. To his immeadite suprised he didn''t feel anything.


    Looking down the spear was thrusted into the hole in his chest. Just as swiftly as the strike was initially, the Minotaur tightened his grab on the spear and pulled upward with such a force that Clyde became undone with the spear and was sent flying into the air. His eyes widened as he noticed the third Minotaur preparing to unleash an arrow into him. Unable to move at all in the air, he braced himself the best he could.


    Once released from the string, the arrow made it way toward Clyde''s head.


    ''Can''t exactly brace for this one!''


    Time seemed to slow down around him. The arrow was a breath away from his eyes. Clyde noticed he could move freely, and grabbed the arrow with his hand. When he moved the arrow, a trail of static was seen following its movements. Additionaly, Clyde was still slowly moving upwards, while the Minotaurs were not moving at all. If they were it must have been incredibly slow.


    After what was around ten seconds of perceived time from Clyde, the world sped up once more.


    ''What the hell!''


    All three Minotaurs were noticeably confused by what just happened. Considering their teamwork they were used to the way combat flowed in each others company.


    What comes up comes down. And Clyde was coming down fast.


    A crazy idea popped up in his head and there was no reason not to follow through.


    As Clyde was coming down with the laws of inertia on his side, he prepared to drive the arrow in his hand into one of the Minotaurs below him. This was easier said than done because the spear user seemed to understand what he was attempting to do.


    The spear was directly in Clyde''s path of descent. Fortunately the beast was able to get his halbard unstuck, but in the process of pulling up on the weapon it knocked the spear out of the way. With a straight shot Clyde put all of his strength into driving this arrow downward. To his great surprise he did not hit the Minotaur in the body, instead the arrow struck into the head of the beast sending it to the ground alongside its halbard.


    Before Clyde could feel excitement, he approached the ground himself rolling into a standing position. Turning around the other two Minotaurs were fueled by rage. As the bow user was reaching for a second arrow, the spear user was charging.


    Now that it was a two on one things would be more manageable, not to mention that the element of surprise was gone.


    Of course Clyde would not deny another miracle occurring like it did earlier. There was still no time to think about what happened as the spear user was already ready to attack.


    As the spear was thrusted, Clyde allocated energy to his leg side stepping out of the way.


    Jumping toward the Minotaur, Clyde struck its chest with his fist. As he connected a spark ignited between the fist and body.


    The Minotaur let out a nasty scream and dropped its weapon.


    If Clyde wasn''t so bewildered by what occurred he would notice that his the skin on his knuckles were burnt off from the friction of that one clash.


    Collapsing on its legs, Clyde was about to strike it in the head this time with his left hand. Before that happened he heard the bowstring release once again.


    This time, no miracle occurred.


    The arrow hit Clyde''s left shoulder while he was in the motion of attacking the spear user.


    The pain was blinding. The spear user took this opportunity to regain its stance. With its weapon of choice on the ground it made a move choosing itself as the weapon.


    The air became heavy.


    Pulling both of its arm back, it began to swing them forward in an attempt to crush Clyde.


    Despite having barely anytime to react, he crouched down just before the fist connected to his head.


    The sound of the clash made Clyde''s ears ring.


    ''My turn now.''


    Ripping the arrow from his shoulder with his right hand, using adrenaline Clyde dashed forward and jabbed the arrow into its knees with as much force as he could muster.


    The Minotaur fell onto its back. On his way to finish the beast, Clyde remembered the third Minotaur.


    It was nowhere to be found.


    ''Perhaps it ran.''


    With no time to waste Clyde positioned himself behind the head of the Minotaur and promptly snapped its neck.


    "What the hell kind of trial is this!" S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now he finally had a chance to catch his breath.... well if could breathe. Unfortunately the pain in his shoulder had caught up with him. He would allow himself to pass out if he was sure the other Minotaur was out of the picture, but for now he needed to move forward.


    The question is where would he go? There wasn''t exactly a manual to a trial.


    ''Trial of the surge... what a strange name.''


    Reviewing the fight he thought about the strange occurrences.


    Static. Friction.


    He looked down at his hand seeing the state of its skin.


    ''How could a corpse even feel pain anyway?''


    All of the sudden his body rapidly began to reconstruct itself.


    [Repairment Complete.]


    [Two Beast Slain, One Fled]


    [Score 7/10]


    All of these strange voices in his head were overwhelming.


    ''I need to get out of this trial''


    After a moment the voice let out another statement.


    [Unworthy]


    [Try Again?]


    "Why the hell would I do that again, no thanks."


    [Are You Sure? Death Is The Next Alternative.]


    "Ok I''ll try again! Why didn''t you say that the first time."


    ''I guess I need to prove my worth to pass the trial. A seven out of ten is average though. I might be here awhile.''


    The world around Clyde fell out of view replaced by a sea of sand.

 Chapter 10: Avalor

    Chapter 10 - AvalorOne month had passed since the disappearance of Clyde.


    Officially the perpetrator of the incident that occurred on the train was pronounced dead. Bell refused to believe that such a fate was in store for the man who saved her life.


    If he wasn''t really dead she would have to kill him herself for leaving her alone in this place.


    Avalor was significantly bigger than she realized and it proved to be more than she could handle. After all she is now a student at the states official academy of magic.


    That was a story she couldn''t believe herself. After all she was practically a slave just a month ago. It was all by chance anyway.


    One week after her arrival, Bell found herself cornered in an alley way by some thuggish looking characters. Somehow she was able to hold off against the thugs by using that same magic Clyde claimed she helped him with. Of course it wasn''t on purpose because if she could use it properly, she would have done much more to the people herself.


    As they were escaping a tall women appeared at the entrance of the alley way. Her skin was golden and the wind was blowing her crimson hair.


    Bell wasn''t sure if she was supposed to be glad or terrified because of the change in temperature.


    The ground where the two men were running turned to ice causing them to fall. The lady walked forward and touched both of the men on the floor with her foot. They instantly became frozen.


    Petrified, Bell was caught off guard when the women spoke to her.


    "That magic, I''ve never seen anything like it before. Can you tell me about it?"


    Her voice was so calm and gentle it almost made Bell forget what she did to the two people a second ago.


    "I couldn''t tell you if I wanted to. Until just now, I haven''t even confirmed my ability to pull off such a feat. If they had known I wasn''t adept at what I could do, I fear things would''ve gone much worse. Regardless thank you for showing up when you did."


    A few moments of silence between the two women occurred. The red haired woman was looking deep into Bell''s eyes.


    "This won''t do. As of today you are attending the academy... actually I want you to study directly under me."


    Bell was shaken by what she said. Her voice began to tremble.


    "Who.. are you?"


    The women laughed making Bell feel silly. After a second the women contained herself and straightened her body out.


    "I am headmistress Avelyn of Avalor, but you can call me Ava."


    In the following weeks Bell would report to Ava in attempts to figure out what she was capable of. During this time she was put on some sort of training regiment. Today was no exception.


    At first when she saw the academy she was in awe of its size and architecture.


    Now she just feels dread.


    Entering the foyer, Bell traveled up the stairs to the third floor. Continuing on her way she noticed there was more glances at her than usual. It wasn''t everyday a student got personal training.


    Especially considering she was nobody.


    The door to Ava''s room was ajar. Inside she could see her teacher alongside a tall boy who appeared short next to Ava.


    "Bell I''m glad you came, this is Lapis, he is another person that I take interest in. You are just now meeting because he just got back from a mission I sent him on.


    Lapis nervously shuffled his feet.


    "It''s nice to meet you Bell... I''m sorry you also got stuck with this teacher."


    Ava hit him on the head with her fist.


    "Don''t mind him. Come inside and we will go over todays lesson."


    As the hour passed, Bell began to feel embarrassed. Lapis was nothing short of a genius. He answered every question that Ava asked without hesitation and was correct.


    "How about we conclude today with a combat test. This time you will spar with each other instead of me."


    ''Is she crazy!? This guy is clearly going to mop the floor with me. I shouldn''t hold anything back.''


    The three made their way to the training grounds of the academy. At this time of day it was empty as the normal classes were on break.


    Standing in the opposite direction of Lapis, Bell could only feel tension. He seemed indifferent to anything as if he didn''t care what was happening. Breaking the silence Ava began counting. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Three.... Two..... One... Go!"


    Believing that her opponent was much stronger than her, Bell gave it her all. Despite not mastering control of her unknown ability, she had spent countless hours sparring against Ava. In those fights she always lost but she also believe that she could give Clyde a run for his money.


    She circulated her energy putting pressure on her legs. Closing the distance between herself and Lapis almost instantly she was attempting to gut punch him.


    His eyes widened slightly.


    Before the punch connected to his stomach he disappeared completely.


    ''Huh? Where did he go?''


    She could sense imminent doom from behind her. But she was no fool. Instead of turning around she immediately drove a left hook to the right of where he had been.


    Her fist connected.


    The illusion of nothing was broken.


    Lapis staggered back astounded by what just happened.


    ''He''s good at misdirection.''


    "How did you know?"


    "Your movements were clear when I saw your eyes."


    "I see"


    Preparing for what would happen next, Bell braced herself. To her horror something she couldn''t have expected occurred. She was blind.


    "Let''s see how you do now."


    ''So he can mess with senses completely.''


    She realized all of her senses were gone. The feeling was strange yet euphoric. Unable to know what would happen next Bell prepared the one thing she could count on after her training.


    Ava watched in amusement as Lapis''s fist connected with the young girls body.


    All of Bell''s senses returned and when her sight returned she saw what she expected. Yellow shards were shattered from her body at the location of the blow. Lapis could be seen flying backwards a few meters landing on his back.


    "Well done."


    Bell felt proud from her teachers praise.


    Ava moved toward Lapis and helped him off the ground. She whispered something in his ear that Bell could not hear. Lapis approached her.


    "You win.. today."


    After that he left leaving Ava and Bell alone.


    "Bell what did you think?"


    "I''m a little suprised to be honest."


    "You shouldn''t be after all the biggest thing holding you back is confidence. You still haven''t told me anything about your past. I won''t make you tell me but one day you need to move on."


    "I really am trying, it''s just that I have my mind occupied. I can''t stop worrying about my friend and if they will return."


    Ava glared at Bell.


    "If your friend was as strong as you think they are I''m sure they will come back. In fact, there are not many slayers that I do not know, who is it?"


    Bell had not explained the circumstances around Clyde''s disappearance in fear that Ava knew the Lord, but it couldn''t be a bad idea to see if she knew Clyde.


    "My friends name is Clyde, I''m not sure of his last name or where he is from. To be more honest, he doesn''t have extraordinary powers worthy of slayer. But what he lacks in ability is made up ten fold in knowledge and courage."


    "This Clyde, does he by chance wear dark leathered apparel? Is his personality serious? Better yet, does he act as if there is no hope in this world?"


    "I suppose that would sum him up at a surface level-"


    "I know who you are talking about. After all if it''s who I think it is then me and him go way back."


    Ava turned around looking upward


    "He was my boyfriend... of course we were just children then and he changed a lot after all..."


    Bell was dumbfounded.


    ''There is absolutely no way.. not a chance!''


    Just trying to picture the two together in her head was painful. Ava was tall, taller than most peoples she''s ever seen. Clyde wasn''t short by average standerds but in comparison he was like at her shoulders on a good day. However if they were children it must have been different back then.


    "I''m sorry you must be mistaken, there is no way the Clyde I know could be with someone of your capabilities."


    Ignoring her previous statement, Ava replied.


    "You said he disappeared. How exactly did he disappear?"


    Bell of course was hesitant to share the information completely but if she really did know Clyde it was important for her to know.


    "You know that story that''s been going around, the one that paints Lord Black as a hero. Well Clyde was the culprit in that same story. He believed that the Lord was a werewolf and despite what the rumors say, Clyde''s body vanished completely. The only thing left was his sword which was confiscated."


    "This is strange indeed, not only did he suspect Rodney of being a werewolf but he also acted on it. He must have caught him in the act for such an encounter to occur. If his body really did vanish then I''m sorry because I''m just as stumped as you. He never had the ability to do something like that as far as I''ve been aware."


    "You know the Lord personally?"


    "Well of course I do, after all he and the kind are great sponsors to the academy. I''ll admit he gave me a weird vibe but to think he would be a beast. I''ll do some investigating myself and take care of the issue when the appropriate time arises."


    At that moment alarms throughout the city could be heard blasting the emergency broadcast system.


    "Citizens please remain indoors, slayers are being dispatched immediately. A threat level of Ember has been declared."


    Ava looked at Bell.


    "This is a perfect opportunity to see what you can do."


    Bell was shaking beyond belief.


    "Ember! Even though that''s the second lowest threat opportunity, the amount of beast coming through the hole would be a lot to handle even for me."


    "I''ll be with you and so will many other slayers, after all this is probably the safest city in the nation."


    A large hole was opening up in the middle of the cities center, Bell and Ava were rushing toward the event while something else was going on far away.


    ***


    [Repairment Complete]


    [Nineteen Beast Slain]


    [Score 10/10]


    [Worthy]


    Clyde was surrounded by several different type of monsters. He didn''t know how long he''s being doing this trials. But by this point he learned a lot about how to use his new powers.


    "Finally."


    [Trial of the Surge Complete]


    Before long Clyde noticed a burning pain in his chest.


    He needed to breathe again.


    For a second he was concerned he might die once more because he forgot what to do.


    The world around him shattered into glass and he was once again the in the cave he found himself in before entering the trial.


    A portal to a different place appeared a few feet in front of him.


    ''So this is what the old guy had in mind.''


    Stepping through the portal, Clyde looked ahead at the marvelous city walls of Avalor.

 Chapter 11: Welcome Home

    Chapter 11 - Welcome HomeJudging from what Ava had told her, there was two types of invasions from the underworld. A dominant being could create the pathway themselves or a swarm of monsters could claw their way out together. Since this was a threat rating of ember it was more likely to be a swarm because if it had been a singular being, it must have been stronger to come out alone.


    The threat level was typically evaluated based on the intensity of tremors within the ground in addition to energy readings.


    Bell was still nervous mainly because this would be her first time against such foes.


    A minute passed and the first wave of beast came out. Large boar like creatures with tusk that pointed straight outward could be seen.


    Their sheer number was overwhelming to Bell. Looking behind her, Ava was standing with no hint of fear in her eyes.


    A lot of people from the academy had shown up as well. Strangely, Lapis was nowhere to be found.


    Seeing the other people had already began repelling the attack, Bell ran forward herself. She was given a weapon before hand from Ava, a small blue knife.


    Three of these boars made it passed people in front of her. One was charging directly for her. The other two ran in seperate directions as if they couldn''t be bothered.


    Easily dodging to the right of the boar, Bell slid the knife that was in her right hand against the side of the boar.


    The beast fell over sideways with its guts coming out. Bell had yet to learn the essence of weapon infusion or how to properly control her abilities but she couldn''t deny her sharp reflexes.


    Another few minutes passed with Bell killing six other beast. Something was definitely wrong. The boar didn''t seem to be looking for a fight, as if they were truly running away. Furthermore, dozens and dozens of these things were still continuing to climb out of the hole.


    Ava stepped forward.


    "Do you feel it Bell? Close your eyes."


    The trembling was ongoing. Except it seemed to be growing louder.


    "What does it mean?"


    "If I was guessing, something strong is about to appear. Let me handle it."


    Ava ordered all of the students that had gathered around to move back. When the area was clear all of the remaining hordes of beast turned to ice and shattered. In fact it seemed as if the entire hole was frozen over.


    After a second Bell believed the entire thing was taken care of, but if that the case then why was Ava still looking at it?


    An explosion erupted from the ground causing debris to fly everywhere. A large wall of smoke could be seen towering above the height of the city walls. It could likely be seen from a great distance.


    A creature that looked like a large serpent appeared.


    It was a Wyrm.


    Jumping fully out of the hole, it lunged straight at Ava. For the first time ever, Bell saw Ava unsheathe a weapon. She struck the air in front of her in a cross formation. Hundreds of small ice shards flew toward the massive creature.


    The Wyrm opened its mouth consuming them all.


    The dark green scales of the beast turned to an icy white. Ava looked annoyed, yet impressed.


    The large snake opened its mouth and shot out a beam of raw ice. Ava moved out of the way fast enough. Bell barely managed to react in time. The entire middle section of this road was destroyed and Bell noticed some people that were hit became frozen.


    This type of situation was definitely not at the level of ember. In fact this monster must have been worthy of the flame rating which was the next level above.


    Bell began to worry. She was sure Ava could take care of the beast alone but a few people have already became victims.


    Ava''s voice boomed.


    "Watch closely!"


    A sphere was taken the place where Ava was standing. The temperature must have dropped dramatically because Bell felt unbelievably cold.


    Jumping from the ground, Ava dived directly into the jaws of the beast. Seconds later massive shards of ice pierced the Wyrm from the inside. Following that attack, it shriveled up and flailed around until it eventually stopped moving on the ground.


    Bell then saw Ava cut her way out from inside of the beast with a similar knife that Bell was using.


    ''Is it over?''


    Bell looked around and couldn''t see any other monsters. The other students were so star struck by what had occurred their mouths were wide open. Unfortunately, it seemed there was one more surprise that the underworld had in store.


    A golem that was at least triple the size of the Wyrm climbed out of the pit. Glancing over at Ava, Bell noticed she didn''t look that great probably because of how much energy she used in one attack. The creature looked as if it was about to stomp her into mush. As it rose its leg up, a bolt of lighting struck the creature in the head. Bell was once again baffled because the lighting came from behind her.


    "Did you miss me?"


    "Clyde? How did you do that?! Also where have you been!?"


    Ignoring Bell, Clyde walked to where Ava was standing.


    "We owe me one."


    Ava laughed.


    "My dear Clyde you have some explaining to do. It can wait for now though."


    "However your debt cannot wait. I am starving more than you could imagine."


    "Clyde if was being presumptuous, I think you are asking me on a date." S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Clyde''s face became flushed as he turned to the side.


    "Don''t flatter yourself."

 Chapter 12: Catch Up

    Chapter 12 - Catch UpThe smell of ash was thick. No civilans died in the incursion but there was a few losses of life from young slayers. Clyde was already settled at a nearby inn preparing to get some rest. After all according to Bell he''s been gone for over a month meaning he technically hasn''t slept for that long.


    Avelyn decided that they would talk more tomorrow after she gets done with the paperwork.


    Clyde did also not expect Bell to be referring to her as Ava. It was almost as suprising that she got herself enrolled in the academy. No matter how the thought about it, Bell had accumulated too many coincidences in his mind. She managed to accomplish what he was planning on doing before dying and she did it alone. Avelyn must have sensed what he saw in her during that fight against the wendigo.


    Clyde was still getting used to his own power. Despite learning a lot about how to control it he had felt to realize the drawbacks. Beneath the bandages of his right arm was his skin with heavy burns. Previously during his time in the trial he had grown accustomed to being restored before the next fight. Now he had no choice but to deal with the consequences of his actions. He would need to be more careful later on.


    With much to be completed tomorrow, Clyde finally rested his eyes.


    ***


    "... and that would cover the events as I understood it."


    Ava was reporting directly to the kings delegate, Vu. He was a mysterious character who appeared just a few years ago, despite that he has became well known throughout the lands.


    "So this friend of yours showed up and slayed the creature with a single strike. What intrigues me is that you claim he used a power he didn''t have before and that it was as if he conducted lightning."


    "As I said yes.."


    The chamber was quiet for a few moments. Then all of the sudden, the delegate vanished.


    Ava turned around and left through the doors.


    ***


    Sunlight broke the darkness in Clyde''s room.


    ''I''m so tired.''


    Since it had been so long, Clyde was needing to remind himself to breathe frequently.


    Hunger and thirst.


    He wasn''t sure whether to be happy or annoyed that these daily requirements were expected from his body once again.


    One thing he desperately missed was the trial healing him because the pain in his arm was strong.


    ''I was really gone for over a month. So many things happened.''


    Now that he finally had a chance to gather his thoughts and he reflected on his time spent in the previous realm. The two people he met were unlike anyone he''d ever seen. An old self proclaimed nobody who knew things that shouldn''t be possible. Then there was Orion, the dweller of the land of dust.


    Distracted by his thoughts, Clyde didn''t hear the initial knocking on his door.


    "Clyde, are you in there?"


    It was Bell.


    "Yes give me a moment and I''ll be out shortly."


    As he was getting dressed, Clyde was reminded of the hole in his armor. Since he wasn''t going anywhere outside of the city he put on a casual shirt and pants.


    Opening the door Clyde was met with a stunned Bell.


    "I''ve never seen you look so normal."


    "I''m not sure what you mean."


    To Clyde''s indications, he did not recall dressing weirdly


    "It doesn''t matter, let''s go meet Ava."


    There it was again, her relationship with Avelyn was out in the open but Clyde couldn''t believe it.


    "Why do you call her Ava?"


    Bell seemed confused.


    "Because she said I could."


    To Clyde that was the last thing he expected to hear. In the past she would have struck him over the head if he referred to her that way.


    As they made their way out of the inn Clyde realized he would need to find a more suitable location for residence if was planning to stay here for awhile.


    Once they were outside the sight of the city brought a memories to his mind. The first time he stepped foot in Avalor was on a shopping trip with his sister and father.


    "What are you smiling about?"


    "I''m just glad you managed without me. After all you seemed like a lost cause."


    Bell pouted.


    "To be fair I did have my share of luck. This doesn''t mean you can just disappear again though."


    Clyde felt a connection to Bell that he couldn''t explain. They hadn''t known each other for very long but he believed he she was important to him. Perhaps she reminded him of his sister.


    "I don''t plan to die again."


    "How could you even be sure you really died?"


    "I''ll tell you and Avelyn at the same time."


    With no further words the two made their way to a local cafe. The interior was deserted with a lone woman sitting at a table. The storeowner was as about to say something to Clyde and Bell but Avelyn gave him a look.


    "Welcome Clyde, have a seat."


    Clyde pulled out a chair for Bell and then sat down himself.


    "You know before I get started telling you what I''ve been up to, I am seriously hungry."


    As if expecting this a waiter came out and laid several platters of food on the table before him. Clyde was about to drool.


    "Don''t over eat, your body is likely adjusting."


    Bell was right so Clyde finished whatever was in his mouth and cleared his throat.


    "So what do you want to know?"


    Clyde explained the situation up to this point but left out a few important details regarding his encounter with Orion and the man who guided him to the cave.


    Bell was silent the entire time listening deeply with hints of shock appearing on her face every now and then.


    Avelyn looked directly at Clyde with no signs of emotion at all.


    "All of this is a little hard to believe and honestly I wouldn''t believe you if I didn''t see your new power yesterday. That being said there is one thing I don''t understand about your story."


    "And that is?"


    "Why you were on a train to Avalor on the first place. After all you made it clear you didn''t want to see me again so what changed?"


    Clyde glanced at Bell.


    "Well the truth is I came here to get stronger, I underestimated my ability and it almost cost my life as well as hers. Now that I''ve gained a new ability it''s even more important I understand it. Despite fighting through countless trials yesterday made me realize I wasn''t using it practically. Additionally I''m sure you''ve noticed her strange aptitude to magic which gave me another reason."


    Avelyn digested the information for a moment and laughed.


    "I guess we need to get you enrolled. It''s good timing as well because in three months is the annual arcane crucible."


    Bell spoke up.


    "What is the arcane crucible?"


    Clyde remained silent.


    "It''s a competition between all of the academy''s in the nation. If you win you will get a small fortune and a promising reputation. The school of the winner would get a lot of publicity and first pick of next years enrollment. Better yet it''s a great chance to test your skills as the opponents you would be facing would be of all ages and backgrounds. However there are only ten slots available per academy."


    "How are the ten chosen?"


    This time Clyde answered.


    "A trial by combat amongst the people who want to represent I imagine."


    "That is correct Clyde, everyone besides the headmaster of an academy could compete. Usually teams consist of a few faculty and promising students."


    Bell was confused. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "How come teachers could compete but you couldn''t?"


    "That''s a simple question to answer but the reality is that headmasters are in a league of their own."


    "I see."


    While Clyde was listening he couldn''t really grasp how strong Avelyn had become. In just four years since they last saw each other she had became the headmaster of a prominent academy.


    "Clyde I need you to continue resting for another day or so while your arm heals, Bell you will be returning to the academy with me when we are done here."


    Eventually Clyde parted way with the two once they talk about a few more things and made his way toward the local guildhall. After all now he could qualify to join and not resort to back door request.

 Chapter 13: Joining the Guild

    Chapter 13 - Joining the GuildClyde had only been to this guildhall once before. As he set foot in the building the beautiful interior design had him stunned like last time. In comparison to the one in Galon, this was in a league of its own. Perhaps it was because Avalor is one of the largest cities in the country.


    A row of pillars on Clyde''s left and right was like a guiding pathway to the assignment board and the registration booth. Beyond the pillars on both sides was a ton of tables and stools likely for the patrons of the guild.


    On his way to register Clyde looked at some of those patrons. Some were drowning in their own sorrows, while others seemed to be having a celebration. Many times slayers would go on assignments in groups, especially if the target was a powerful entity. It only makes sense that no one is guaranteed to survive anything in life, of course it takes time for certain people to realize this.


    As Clyde was halfway down the room a tall burly man tripped over himself falling towards Clyde. Stepping out of the way, Clyde watched the man fall flat on his stomach.


    ''An idiot.''


    Just a moment went by and Clyde continued moving forward, however he was interrupted.


    "Watch where you''re going boy."


    Clyde turned around to see the apparently drunken figure standing up. Once he was at his full height Clyde was able to clearly evalute the man. He was roughly a foot over Clyde''s own height, additionally his clothing wasn''t that of an ordinary adventurer. He was a knight of Avalor. Clyde could tell because despite not wearing armor, the man displayed the symbol of brotherhood on his jaded silk vest. It would be best not to cause any trouble.


    "My mistake."


    Clyde began to turn around when the man put his hand on Clyde''s shoulder. The size of his hand was large enough to cover the entirety of the shoulder.


    "Yeah it was your mistake, so how about you give me some compensation."


    At this point many members of the guild in addition to bystanders looked at the center of the room.


    ''I''d rather not bring so much attention to myself at the moment but this guy isn''t giving me a choice.''


    "Well sir, I don''t have any currency on me at all which was why I came here. I''m not sure how I could compensate you."


    The man looked confused and shook his head while tightening his grip on Clyde''s shoulder.


    "If you don''t have anything then why don''t you just give your life to me?"


    Clyde''s face remained motionless despite the man''s remark and the whispers of the crowd that was becoming larger.


    "I suggest you take your hand off me before you do anything rash. After all it''s clear you have a reputation to uphold."


    As he said that Clyde pointed his bandaged arm at the insignia on the man''s clothing.


    "Are you trying to threaten me?! You saw what I''m apart of and you seriously think you''re gonna do anything about it."


    Someone that seemed to be the man''s friend rushed up to him.


    "Come on Brock let''s get out of here."


    Brock looked at his friend and shoved him to the ground.


    "I can''t do that, this little guy thinks he can threaten me."


    Directing his voice back to Clyde, Brock continued.


    "Who are you?"


    "I''m Clyde, im also the man who believes in second chances, so listen to your friend and leave."


    "Well Clyde, im the man who is -"


    Brock was cut off whenever Clyde sent volts of electricity through his own shoulder into Brock''s hand traveling to his body. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The pain was soon felt in Clyde''s own shoulder but he wasn''t left with much choice. It''s hard to reason with people like that. Brock did look like he was in pain but Clyde made sure not to seriously hurt him, or at least he thinks he will be fine.


    Once the initial shock spread through Brock''s body, smoke was coming out of his mouth and ears. With his grasp on Clyde broken he swayed a little bit and fell onto the hard floor once again.


    To a viewer of the fight it seemed as if Brock was beaten by being looked at by the small man below him.


    Clyde believing that it was all over turned back around to finally register with the guild. As he turned around onlookers were full of fear.


    "Everyone I''m sorry for the disruption, please continue on with yourselves."


    ''Perhaps they would want to hear that.''


    It worked a little bit as everyone broke back into their own groups but they were all whispering, and the topic was unanimous.


    This confused Clyde a little bit because it wasn''t like a brawl was out of the ordinary in a place like this. It was possible he just offended someone with a dangerous background. At first Clyde did seem worried because of the insignia but then he also realized that someone involved as a knight would not allow themselves to get drunk in public. This led Clyde to believe he must have been a retired solider which meant he didn''t have as much pull with the brotherhood.


    As he reached the registration counter young girl remained looking at the floor and was visably shaken.


    "Hello I would like to register with the guild."


    Regaining her composure, the girl looked back up and Clyde and handed him a piece of paper.


    "Sounds great, I just need you to fill this form out and then follow me to another room so that we can test the purity of your magic."


    As Clyde was filling the paper out at a nearby table he began to feel nervous. The reason he was denied membership in the past was because he didn''t have a good connection to magic. To figure out how potent your magic is you would put your hands onto a crystal ball and focus your energy into it. From there the ball would change colors signifying your grade. Everytime Clyde tried previously he would get a grey ashen color which was showing that he was a borderline dormant magic user. To be fair his previous use of magic wasn''t anything crazy. Now that he thought about it, he hadn''t tried to use that magic at all since he got new abilities. Combining the two would prove to be a powerful tool.


    Clyde finished writing what was required of him and returned the paper to the girl.


    "Alright follow me."


    She exited the booth leading Clyde down a hallway into a room. Despite the state of this guild compared to the rest, the testing area was almost identical.


    "Ok Clyde, all you need to do is place both of your hands on this ball, put your energy into and a color will produce. Assuming you have at least forty percent potency you can join."


    Placing his hands onto the ball, Clyde allocated his energy towards it.


    The clear ball turned into the familiar ashen color. Clyde began to feel a sense of despair but before he could the color changed again. The ball became a light shade of blue, then green, and purple. Many different colors were circulating.


    Glancing over at the young girl she appeared to be as suprised as he was.


    "What does this mean?"


    She took a moment to answer.


    "I don''t know for sure but you are definitely qualified to join. I see colors representing far above the required forty percent. If anything I would say this means your adaptability to magic isn''t bound. That would make you one of the rarest people to ever exist."


    ''If what she''s saying is true then this is great news, but I shouldn''t let many people know about this.''


    "I would like you to keep this much a secret, if I may ask what is your name?"


    "I''m Daisy, I will just select a green shaded sixty percent on the test results. With someone of your caliber I''m sure we will see each other often. I''m just glad I get a finders fee."


    With that Daisy hummed her way out of the room leaving Clyde alone.


    ''Makes me wonder what I really did during that trial.''


    Clyde looked at the room one more time and return to the entrance of the guild. Stepping back into the streets of Avalor, Clyde decided to go back to the inn and get the rest that was asked of him. After all the current expenses were paid by Avelyn so he should take advantage of it before he has to start taking jobs again. Of course once he was officially registered as a student he could live at the academy. But that idea was a foreign concept to someone like Clyde.

 Chapter 14: Settling in

    Chapter 14 - Settling inOne week had passed since Clyde had returned to the realm of the living. If it had another name he wasn''t sure, but that didn''t matter at the moment.


    For some reason Clyde was woken up in the middle of the night. At this point he had planned to start training at the academy as his arm was nearly recovered. He initially thought he woke up because of nerves however that changed quickly when he began to hear noises.


    The inn he was staying at wasn''t particularly large. Besides the twelve rooms there was a small lounge.


    As Clyde was about to step out to see what the commotion was about, he noticed there was absolutely no light entering his room from the window. It was always dark at night anyway but this was different.


    ''What the hell is going on?''


    Opening the door Clyde saw the other current residents of the inn talking amongst themselves.


    "The gods have forsaken us!"


    "Shut up you fools! It''s clearly an illusion."


    "Something like this shouldn''t be possible."


    Clyde walked up to the group and decided to ask them outright.


    "What are you guys talking about?"


    They all grew silent until one man spoke up.


    "Go look outside and see what''s changed."


    With nothing else to be said, Clyde quietly walked outside.


    Initially when he opened the door the amount of darkness was strange. It wasn''t as if he couldn''t see but it was definitely uncomfortable. Looking around the street he saw several other people gazing upward. He was inclined to look as well.


    ''Oh.''


    Both of the planets moons were gone. It was so dark because the only thing lighting the surface was stars far away.


    Clyde was shocked. Who wouldn''t be in circumstances like this.


    ''What does it even mean?''


    Continuing to look at as much of the sky as possible, Clyde''s stress grew.


    Even if someone was capable of doing this it doesn''t make sense as to why they would. Furthermore, if someone was capable then that meant a great deal of danger.


    Clyde turned around and walked back to his room ignoring the other people.


    As he hit the mattress of his bed Clyde sighed.


    ''This can at least wait until morning.''


    Sometime later Clyde was woken up by a knock on his door.


    However he was startled by something else. He could see it was still dark out through his window.


    "Clyde we need to talk."


    It was Aveyln.


    "Come in."


    She ran up to him and grabbed him tightly looking into his eyes. After a moment she let go.


    "It seems you''re fine."


    "I''m fine? What''s going on why is it still dark?"


    "I don''t know all the details but things are really bad. It seems as if this was some coordinated attack. I looked into your eyes because something or someone is possessing people. For all we know this might be an attack on the entire country of Ciedar. All communications are down and judging from the positions of the distant stars, we haven''t moved at all."


    "What about Bell, where is she?"


    "She''s currently at the Academy, that''s where all the current survivors are at as well. To be honest you''re lucky that you''re alive. It''s extremely dangerous outside, aside from the thing possessing people, many monsters that stay away from cities have all come out to play."


    ''An endless nightmare with creatures that excel in the dark.''


    "Well then, let''s go."


    Instantly she grabbed Clyde''s and and hurried out of the room with him.


    Clyde really had been lucky because the lobby he previously was at now was a gruesome scene at best. A dead silver wolf was ripped in half on the table the guest were surrounding. There were limbs all over the place additionally.


    Clyde begane to speak but Avelyn gave him a strong look implying there is no time to think.


    In all honesty his wrist was starting to hurt by how tightly she was grabbing it but he didn''t really mind either.


    As she was dragging him down the city occasionally stopping and changing directions, Clyde couldn''t help but think.


    ''This can''t be real.''


    Avelyn turned around and looked him echoing his own thoughts.


    "This is very real."


    ''Could she read minds now?''


    "No"


    "Ok now you''re freaking me out."


    She let out a chuckle.


    "You''re just a bit predictable to me."


    "Not sure how I''m supposed to feel about that."


    "Be quiet we are almost there."


    Things were far too quiet. At this point they have gotten here with not interruptions. Clyde did see a few horrors with his own eyes but they were avoidable. To his suprise they reached the inside of the academy with no issues.


    As soon as they got into the foyer Avelyn spoke clearly.


    "It''s me."


    At the moment six different people stepped out of the shadows, all of which let out a sigh of relief.


    "Glad you made it back, I hope this guy was worth it."


    As Clyde began to retort, Bell beat him to it.


    "That man is very important so you should watch your mouth."


    Avelyn showed no signs of emotion as she entered the conversation.


    "Both of you calm down, Quentin, this guy is a personal friend of mine. Now that I''m back as anyone shown any changes at all."


    "No, its been smooth sailing."


    "Alright resume your post here, me and my friend are gonna discuss some things. Bell you come with us."


    Avelyn led Clyde and Bell up the stairs and to her personal office.


    Once inside she took a seat and Clyde sat across from her. Bell sat in a chair next to Clyde. Another boy that Clyde had never seen before was also in the room, he must be someone special if he interested Avelyn.


    "Now that we are all here, allow me to put things bluntly. Avalor has all but fallen, it''s clear that in the coming days there will be no one left. If there are people out there then they will likely be dead soon. In here we have a total count of about six thousand people. Even if we got everyone out of the city there is nowhere to go, additionally we can''t expect reinforcements because this is likely happening everywhere. We have zero communication to anyone and we have virtually no information about the situation at hand."


    The things coming out of Avelyns mouth were deeply concerning to Clyde but he tried to not let it show. Looking over at the boy he was displaying a statue like expression. Bell on the other hand looked much darker. However Clyde had a question he needed answered.


    "What''s the plan?"


    "Seeing that we are outnumbered against an army of deadly monsters, most of which are terribly strong as they climbed out of hell directly, the solution is clear. We fight out the horde and reestablish a stronghold."


    ''She can''t be serious.''


    "By the way, I am deeply serious."


    Bell spoke up.


    "I''ll do my best."


    The boy went next.


    "Whatever you ask of me to do, I will accomplish."


    The eyes were all on Clyde.


    "I guess if we are gonna die anyway we might as well try, besides I''d rather not die... again."


    Avelyn turned towards the window and started talking again.


    "If we die, we die."


    S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 15: Status

    Chapter 15 - StatusAvalor had an original population around twenty thousand. With about six thousand inhabitants inside of the academy, that meant almost seventy percent were either dead or missing. Of the six thousand, only eight hundred people were capable of combat.


    Currently Clyde was finishing up scouting. There were individual beast that were strong but they were not immediate threats. A large pack of silver wolfs were ravaging what they could find on the eastern front of the city. On the west front was three horses of war. Of course the biggest threat would be the creature controlling the dead.


    That particular being must be hiding somewhere in the rubble. Typically beings that excelled in mind manipulation were physically weak which is why it would hide itself and let its thrall do the work.


    At this point nothing was threatening the walls of the academy outright but it would be best to not let it come to that. Deciding that of the three threats the easiest one to tackle would be the wolves, Clyde returned to inform Avelyn.


    She was already awaiting his return.


    "What do you think?"


    Clyde explained his thoughts.


    "I see, I would have to agree with you. While the wolves would be the best to deal with, we can''t afford to take many with us. You and Lapis should be a good pair together. Considering the pack is the size of sixty wolves I think we can make by with one hundred of you going out together."


    "This lapis guy, what''s his deal?"


    "I met him when he was barely ten, he was already capable of performing magic at that point. He had a really rough childhood, and you and him are very similar."


    "I see, alright then, I''ll be off."


    Clyde wished that Avelyn would accompany him but the risk at the academy would be perilous if something were to attack it while she was gone. Leaving the room Clyde made his way to the dining hall.


    It took some time because it was located back on the first floor and on the opposite side of Avelyns room. But it was a big open area to situate many people.


    Once inside he found the young boy Lapis from he saw earlier.


    "You and me are gonna take care of some things."


    "Okay."


    Something about his eyes were unsettling, but that didn''t matter much to Clyde right now.


    Clyde made his way to the center of the dining hall with Lapis at his side. Everyone in there was pretty quiet and began to look at Clyde. Taking this opportunity he spoke loud and clearly.


    "I need around one hundred capable people to go out with me. I know it might be easy to stay in the comfort of the academy but if we don''t act now there will be no peace later. I''m asking for volunteers because I need people who will have my back and our willing, otherwise you''d just be in the way if you were forced. Meet me in the foyer in five minutes, our target is the silver wolf beast horde."


    Clyde walked away with Lapis continuing to follow him. Once they arrived at the entrance of the academy lapis started laughing.


    "What''s so funny?"


    "You acting that way."


    Ignoring him, Clyde awaited the arrival of willing slayers. One minute passed, then another.


    A few people showed up, then a few more.


    Five minutes passed.


    ''I''ll wait another two minutes.''


    Lapis began to laugh again.


    "It''s funny you think people are willing to die for something, even if it makes sense."


    "Perhaps you''re correct."


    Counting the heads, there was a total of thirty-seven men and four women. Forty-one total.


    This was suboptimal to state the obvious.


    Addressing the group entirely Clyde began to speak.


    "I can''t promise you anything except that I''ll do my best, in turn do yours."


    Turning around Clyde led the group outside.


    Although the primary goal was to eliminate the silver wolf horde, there were big threats in the city.


    Entities that existed alone and killed whatever they found. The plan would be for Avelyn to sweep up the straggling beast after the main threats were cleared. Of course if Clyde and his group could take something out that would be great. Though taking on one of these would mainly depend on which one they directly encountered.


    After walking several hundreds of feet the group halted. A deep scream for help was heard. This caused the group to begin speaking.


    "We have to help!"


    "You idiot, that''s not a person."


    "How could you be sure?"


    "Well it''s not up to us is it?"


    The group looked at Clyde. No one was wrong in their logic but Clyde needed to make a decision. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It''s not a big detour we can take a look."


    The reaction was fifty fifty.


    Taking a right inbetween an ally the group didn''t pick up pace at all. Reaching the other side the street was empty except for one body. It was mutilated with all of its limbs gone.


    Clyde noticed some people looked confused. They didn''t realize that they already walked into a trap.


    ''Looks like I made the wrong choice.''


    The body let out another scream for help.


    At that point the others realized it also.


    "Prepare yourselves."


    The group instinctively formed a tight circle with their backs to one another. Looking around nothing was out of the ordinary.


    After hundred of battles during the trial, Clyde felt the attack as it came. He wasn''t sure if anyone else besides him was capable of noticing it either.


    The icy claw appeared in front of Clyde in slow motion. Even still it wasn''t possible to dodge.


    It was targeting him first.


    The set of claws left deep marks in Clyde''s chest knocking him down. Before anyone had time to react, the creature grabbed Clyde and they both disappeared from view.


    From Clyde''s perspective everyone around them disappeared. He was still on the ground and in the same place but it felt different. However Clyde could see the thing in it''s entirety.


    It was dark blue and had a sinister aura around it. Its eyes were pure white with no nose and a dark smile. The arms were abnormally longer going past the knees of the creature. What would have been fingers were replaced with slender knife like claws.


    Unfortunately Clyde realized where he was. It was a place inbetween life and death. Many people or creatures who couldn''t pass peacefully would end up here. Very few beings could travel freely between.


    The creature that was about to attack Clyde once more was an ice wraith.

 Chapter 16: Ice Wraith

    Chapter 16 - Ice WraithA wraith was something a slayer wouldn''t attack unprepared. Of course that could be said for anything. A wraith with an ice aspect is something a slayer would completely avoid if alone.


    Clyde didn''t have a choice.


    ''Great.''


    After being grabbed and thrown into this world, the distance between himself and the wraith was six feet.


    Letting out a shriek the wraith flew at Clyde with both of its arms stretched out ready to rip his head off.


    Thanks to the trial he was able to adjust to an unexpected battle.


    Clyde ducked as the wraith went over him. Turning around Clyde watched the wraith fly up into the air. After a second it looked back at him with its sharp teeth out.


    If something incorporeal could salivate it definitely was.


    With a second of breathing room Clyde could think. With no sword he would rely on his a ability alone, not that a sword would help right now in the first place. There were only a few opportunities where he could harm the thing without just annoying it. One of those opportunities would be when it initiates contact. Of course that would mean he would get hit.


    A sudden spike of pain radiated from his chest.


    ''That will need to be looked at later''


    The wraith disappeared from view causing Clyde''s hair to stand on its own. The temperature dropped dramatically and he could see his own breath.


    There were no traps set up in advance or any equipment for this. The wraith would have to reveal itself right before it attacked him.


    Two seconds passed.


    Feeling something behind him he quickly turned around as the wraiths face appeared into view.


    It didn''t attack. Instead it stared blankly at Clyde with a deep expression. Taking this opportunity Clyde jumped backwards. The wraith started groaning deeply twitching all of its limbs.


    For a moment Clyde thought this is an opportunity to attack. The thought vanished when he realized this was bait. Clyde''s eyes widened.


    ''Oh s-''


    The back of Clyde''s head was pushed down onto the pavement. With the wind knock out of him and a broken nose Clyde almost lost consciousness from that one blow. He would''ve if the second didn''t come.


    Or the third, or the forth.


    The wraith was playing with its food.


    Once Clyde''s body hit the ground the wraith began to make a clicking noise as if mocking him. He wasn''t dead yet but he knew he couldn''t keep things going at this rate.


    The wraith grabbed him by the head and spun him so they could look at each other. Bored with its prey the wraith began to stretch its mouth large enough to bite a head off.


    ''Right where I want you.''


    Thunder cracked in the sky above hitting both of them. Clyde acted as a channel of energy summoning the bolt. This hurt Clyde but not as much as it would have thanks to his conduit nature. The wraith however dropped Clyde and shrieked.


    A little disoriented Clyde took this opportunity and leaped onto the wraith raising both of his hands. Full of static and friction, Clyde began to pummel. Each strike created a large crack send sparks flying everywhere. The corporeal barrier didn''t matter to Clyde at this moment because he was transcending it with the energy being produced.


    A form of sludge began to splash back onto Clyde.


    The shock in his arms was constant and electric. He was enhancing his strength with his old form of magic effectively tripling the output.


    Eventually Clyde stopped when he felt the pavement and he fell through the body. He looked at his hands.


    They were black and blue. Burnt from heat and frost. It was recoverable under an advanced healer but he wouldnt meet someone capable under these circumstances.


    Clyde noticed his sleeves were tattered and destroyed beyond repair.


    ''New sword and new clothes. The list grows.''


    Strangely he wasn''t back in the waking world. This realization made Clyde jump to his feet and assume a defensive position.


    The wraith was still alive. Clyde knew that he hurt it considerably but at the same time it had enough energy to keep him here. Beyond that his hands were out of the picture for the rest of the fight. Additionally, the lightning trick would only work once every few hours when raw energy was horded inside of him.


    The wraith rose up with its now headless figure. Part of its upper chase was gone as well. Clyde couldn''t help but smile.


    At the very least it was incapable of sight. But Clyde knew better than to grow complacent.


    From the wraiths feet clouds of ice flew in Clyde''s direction making him cover his face with his arms. The mist was on all sides of him limiting his sight significantly. All sides were the same.


    In a weird way Clyde was disadvantaged right now despite his earlier blows.


    His arms hurt to move and his fingers were stiff.


    ''Next best thing I guess.''


    Clyde didn''t need to feel the upcoming blow because in the mist were three shadows of the wraith. Attacking the wrong one would lead to death. Dodging the wrong one would lead to death.


    All paths in front of him lead to death.


    ''Time to carve my own.''


    Diverting power to his legs Clyde jumped out of the mist. Above he could barely see the wraiths body in the inbetween two shadows.


    To his surprise they merged back into the main body after realizing he was no longer apart of the icy fog. Instead the wraith assumed an attacking stance getting ready to pounce. The fog caught up with Clyde in the air.


    Before he knew it he saw the lone spirit flying at him. In the air Clyde couldn''t dodge. Thankfully he didn''t need to dodge.


    As it got closer Clyde didn''t move any part of his body. Continuing to stand still as the silhouette got closer and closer until it vanished. Just liked Clyde''s trick wouldn''t work twice, it''s wouldn''t either. A sorrowing attempt at its life.... Or existence.


    In the seconds that this occurred, Clyde was looking down expecting the beast to be waiting for him at the ground. Falling down he saw just what he thought he would. The wraith with its arms stretched out ready to slice him into pieces.


    Bending his leg inward Clyde was readying himself to kick the wraith.


    Closer and closer.


    The sound of cracking was heard once more. This time sludge was spread into all the directions as the mist disappeared.


    Hitting the ground Clyde felt relieved. Then he heard Lapis.


    "So you lived."


    Outstretching a hand to Clyde, Clyde took it and pulled himself up.


    People started gasping at the sight of Clyde. Covered in a thick blue substance with a bloodied face making him unrecognizable. Not to mention the state of his hands and arms.


    "Is he missing a boot...?"


    "God what kind of monster can take on something like that alone and live."


    "I didn''t even see what you all are talking about."


    Lapis broke the conversation.


    "Do we have anyone capable of healing?"


    The group started to look at one another. Clyde chuckled.


    ''No such luck here.''


    Proving to be right as no one stepped up Clyde laughed louder causing lapis to look at him uncomfortably.


    "You are a strange person."


    Ignoring him Clyde spoke to everyone.


    "The wolves will be near us soon if they continue on their path. We will set up traps a few blocks ahead for their arrival. No time to waste people, after all this is a slayers duty."


    With that he turned around marching toward the desired ambush spot.


    ''I''m gonna pass out any second now.''


    People started to talk amongst themselves again.


    "Is he nuts, did you see the damages he just took."


    "Even if he''s hurt he just killed a monster capable of being a flame level incursion demon. The wolf pack would pale in comparison."


    "You''re right, with someone like that this will be easy."


    Seeing that no one was moving, Lapis interrupted once more. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You heard the man, let''s move and set up the preparations."


    With that settled, the group following Clyde and Lapis began for the arrival of the silver wolves. Strangely the group radiated a sense of hope unlike their initial expression upon leaving the academy.

 Chapter 17: Ambush

    Chapter 17 - AmbushThe intersection the ambush was located at was in the shopping district of Avalor. Clyde left most of the traps for Lapis to take care of because he knew Avelyn taught him properly. The horde shouldn''t arrive for several hours. Considering the state Clyde was in, he decided to get some rest on one of the rooftops that the ranged slayers would be at.


    After an hour Clyde was awakened by Lapis.


    "Something is wrong, I''ve looked ahead to where the horde was supposed to be and they are gone."


    "What do you mean gone? No traces or anything?"


    "I''m not completely sure because I didn''t go very far. It''s possible they were delayed for some reason. Maybe a fearsome creature dealt a significant enough blow to their forces that the rest were picked off."


    Clyde closed his eyes and scratched his head.


    "On one hand that''s good news, however something that strong that could take them all out alone is frightening. Even more so if the horde contained an alpha. I say that we wait for another hour and if there are still no signs we group everyone up and head back."


    "Sounds good to me."


    As Lapis left, Clyde looked down at the road and then the area of the city he could see. In the dark it was difficult to see a great distance and even more difficult to trust your instincts.


    ''Lapis was right, there is something very wrong here.''


    Another hour passed.


    ''Well damn.''


    Clyde moved toward the slayers that were on the roof with him.


    "Get your things, we''re leaving. I''ll see you guys down on the street."


    Making his way down some stairs and passing by tempting free food, Clyde met lapis at the entrance of the store.


    "I was just about to come get you. Since you''re here can you get the group on that clothing store."


    Lapis had a dark look.


    "No I can''t. In fact I''m returning from there now. Nobody was in or on top of the store at all."


    "That doesn''t make any sense we would have heard and attack or known if they left."


    "I agree but with no evidence I''m not sure what to think."


    "Where is your group?"


    "I have them bringing their equipment down as we speak to meet us outside."


    "I just told the people above the same thing."


    Lapis and Clyde stepped outside in silence.


    There was a bench nearby and Clyde took the opportunity to sit down. Lapis did not follow his senior and stood solemnly.


    Clyde''s group made it down after several minutes.


    ''Lapis''s group should''ve been here by now.''


    Looking over at Lapis, the boy had a cold look.


    "Should we check on them?"


    "It might be a good idea."


    Clyde turned to the people behind him.


    "We will be right back, do not let your guards down while we are gone."


    Clyde had another bad feeling walking across the street with Lapis.


    The two entered the building. The store had many small figurines for sell which made Clyde reminisce. Lapis led Clyde to the stairway where they both made it to the roof.


    No one was there. Neither was any of the equipment brought up by them.


    For the first time Clyde saw Lapis have an emotional reaction. His eyes widened and his mouth slightly opened as if he was about to say something. He closed it seemingly changing his mind.


    "Lets return."


    "Wait."


    Lapis walked over to the edge of the roof and looked toward Clyde''s group below.


    "They''re gone as well."


    This time it was Clyde''s mouth that opened.


    "What do you mean? Can you even see them from here?"


    "I can see decently in the dark because of my power, it is more challenging without the light of the moon but I can tell you we are the only ones left."


    It had only been a minute or two. No sound was made from anyone or anything.


    The two stood across from each other silently.


    As Clyde was about to open his mouth to suggest leaving he stopped after witnessing Lapis''s expression.


    The boy who was calm and collected began to tremble and turned pale. His eyes were aimed above Clyde.


    Clyde turned around but there was nothing behind him. Looking back at Lapis his expression was completely normal.


    "Are you okay?"


    "I guess, let''s just head back to the academy."


    "Are you not gonna comment on what just happened?"


    "What do you mean? Nothing happened."


    Clyde blinked and as his eyes opened he was staring at a horrible sight.


    An abomniation that looked like a blob of dozens of corpses, was about to swallow Lapis with its body. Aside from that the scenery of the roof changed completely. Blood was everywhere in addition to limbs, but there was no time to look.


    "Lapis, hide now!"


    Treating Clyde''s words seriously Lapis immediately disappeared from view confusing the creature. Continuing to look at it Clyde realized what they were up against. Slayers called this thing a gargon. It was treated as a myth because no one had ever seen one. That only made sense considering what was happening. If looking away meant you forgot it then this would be tricky.


    It was unclear how strong a gargon was but luckily Clyde still had Lapis.... somewhere.


    With his hands out of commission and a foot that was weak things looked doubtful.


    ''I need to create some distance.''


    But before he could the gargon began to construct a stone wall from the floor inbetween them.


    ''Huh?''


    "Lapis, where did you go?"


    Lapis''s figure became viewable once more as a shimmering light unveiled his body starting at his head and ending with his shoes.


    "What are you talking about, you just told me to hide."


    "Did I? You must be hearing things, anyway let''s head back."


    "Just wait a moment didn''t we just have a similar conversation. You asked me something and I didn''t know what you meant, and now it''s reversed."


    "Yeah...."


    "Clyde run to me as fast as you can!" S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The suddenness of his command felt absolute in Clyde''s mind as if his own subconscious was yelling at him to agree. Bolting forward in an instant Clyde was next to Lapis.


    Lapis looked scared but he took out a dagger.


    "What are you doing are you insane!"


    Clyde witness Lapis carve something into his arm and began to stop him when Lapis screamed at him.


    "Let me do this!"


    Clyde felt sick at the sight.


    In a second he dropped the dagger and yelled in pain.


    "You gonna tell me what''s going on?!"


    Lapis looked at him.


    "I don''t know why is my arm bleeding?!"


    "You just carved it yourself don''t you remember?"


    Lapis stretched his arm out and looked at the carving.


    "This is bad news."


    "Show me."


    Clyde looked at the arm and went pale. Carved onto Lapis''s skin was a single word.


    Gargon.

 Chapter 18: Gargon

    Chapter 18 - Gargon"Gargon."


    Lapis looked at Clyde.


    "It could be anywhere around us preparing for another attack. You look and me and I''ll look at you. If an opening appears it will take it."


    The two watched one another making sure to blink sparingly. They began to exit the roof but the illusion surrounding them broke.


    For a second Clyde was shocked but then the memories he had lost returned to him.


    "It''s given up trickery probably believing that it can take on the two of us."


    "Don''t let your guard down anyway, continue looking everywhere."


    If even half of the rumors were true about this creature then he and Lapis would not return from this fight alive. The biggest advantage they had over others was knowledge of its presence. Unfortunately, knowing what they were up against would barely make a difference.


    Beyond that Clyde only had his legs to use for weapons. Assuming he could land a good hit, he would be unable to walk anyway. The biggest hope in this situation would be Lapis and Clyde didn''t know how well he could handle himself in a situation like this.


    Lapis also realized the greatest weight of the fight would be place on him, which was probably why he looked more dark and somber than usual.


    The sound of mass scraping against the ground was heard behind Lapis causing him to turn around.


    It was a basic trick meant to target fear. It wasn''t Lapis''s fault though as a normal person would fall victim in the same circumstance.


    Clyde realized what was happening and turned around himself opposite of Lapis.


    It seemed that the gargon realized who the weak link was as well because it was targeting Clyde first.


    "On me!"


    Dozens of hands stretched out of the mass of flesh grabbing Clyde at astonishing speed.


    ''Damn!''


    Clyde began to struggle but the flesh attached itself to his own body as it reeled him in. It wasn''t as if they were glued together but more like they were becoming one.


    In a desperate attempt Clyde shot what energy he did have in his body outward. The gargon absorbed it completly causing nothing to happen to it.


    Lapis called out to Clyde with a clear voice.


    "Do not be afraid."


    Clyde became panicked as every sense in his body disappeared. There was no concept of time or self. Just nothing and what remained of his thoughts. If it was not for Lapis''s warning then he might have gotten out of hand.


    ''Is this his ability?''


    A few seconds passed and Clyde''s senses returned completely. To Clyde an indeterminate amount of time went by almost driving him mad.


    With his senses returned the first thing he noticed was that he wasn''t attached anymore. The gargon was still in front of him but it looked just as confused.


    Taking this opportunity Clyde jumped back to Lapis.


    "What did you do?"


    "I erased the senses between you and the gargon. It''s not intelligent so it couldn''t control itself."


    Looking back the gargon seemed confused.


    "I see why Avelyn is interested."


    "That''s not gonna help us again."


    ''So it must take a lot out of him to do that.''


    The gargon began to realize itself and the situation once more.


    "I have a plan."


    Lapis smiled.


    "Do you have a weapon that can pierce it?"


    "This dagger is the only weapon on me."


    "That will do. Sink it into the blob and I''ll take care of the rest."


    Taking a step back Clyde left Lapis alone in front of the beast.


    The dagger lapis took out was not ordinary. The hilt was dark blue with an insignia Clyde had not seen before. It was a lizard with three lines crossed through its body. The blade itself was dark and emitted a deep sense of danger.


    It was beautiful.


    That made what Clyde was going to do that much more difficult. Of course dying was not a better option.


    The gargon was already launching its follow up. This time it condensed its body down to the ground nearly flattening out. It jumped into the air toward lapis and then stretched completely in an attempt to cover Lapis''s body.


    Lapis didn''t hesitate and bolted toward where the gargon had jumped from. As the body came down Lapis barely got out of the way. It was so close he actually jumped out of the crashing onto the ground.


    Clyde was already out of the way awaiting an opening.


    At this point the monstrosity had assumed its original form towering over everything. It didn''t need to turn around to see Lapis because of the many eyes located throughout its body.


    Since it still saw its target, the next attack was sudden.


    Several parts of its body became pointy and curved outward towards the ground Lapis was on.


    Clyde had already circled around to assist Lapis and he successfully helped him out of the way causing a look from Lapis.


    "Thanks."


    Clyde didn''t say anything and was already out of the way continuing to keep his eyes on the gargon.


    Before long Lapis was facing the monster on his own once again. This time he needed to strike. However the gargon suprised him first.


    The gargon stretched out a part of its body a few feet out and then released an electrical charge that was identical to what Clyde could pull off in the direction of Lapis.


    Seeing this Clyde tried to jump in front of the blast but he was late.


    ''Of course this bastard can copy.''


    Lapis was struck by the bolt of friction and energy making him spasm and fall to his knees.


    Clyde grinned.


    ''This was perfect. It copied my ability and suffered the same fate.''


    A large dark spot was located to where the bolt discharged out of its body. Before the gargon could follow up onto Lapis, Clyde was already on the scene.


    Of course by now the gargon had gotten used to Clyde''s interference and was prepared for his arrival. Part of its body formed into a rectangle and slapped Clyde onto the ground.


    As it began to approach and absorbed Clyde, he noticed Lapis was up again.


    "Throw me your dagger!"


    No questions asked, lapis complied.


    The dagger flew through the air and hit the ground sliding into Clyde''s black hand.


    The blob was very close to Clyde now but so was the dark spot. Taking advantage of this Clyde stabbed the spot with the dagger causing himself to grit his teeth. It hurt the gargon as well making it move off of him a short distance.


    Bringing his knees to his chest, Clyde allocated his energy to his right leg and kicked the hilt of the dagger with all of his might. The moment the dagger began to sink deeper Clyde shot out lightning from his body and down through his foot into the knife. The amount of friction cause an explosion and made the dagger fracture acting as shrapnel.


    The gargon exploded into pieces in all directions.


    The handle was all that remained of the dagger and it fell to the floor. Clyde looked over at Lapis and their eyes met. A silent message was conveyed between their contact.


    Is it over?


    The scene was frightening. Over a hundred little pieces of the monster was spread all over the roof.


    All of the sudden the pieces disappeared.


    Despair filled Clyde''s head. How much time passed just now. His memory was blurry and he didn''t know if he and Lapis had dealt with the gargon.


    "Lapis, are you okay?" S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yeah but you look a little worse."


    Clyde noticed the pain in his leg.


    ''Well I must have struck it.''


    Lapis walked over and picked up the handle of the dagger and put it in his pocket.


    "This must have been useful at one point. Either way I think we won. The illusion isn''t being upheld seeing that the carnage is still in our sight. However we can''t see it any longer and we have a gap in our memories."


    At that moment Clyde and Lapis looked at each other and said the same thing.


    "It fled."

 Chapter 19: Laughing matter

    Chapter 19 - Laughing matterClyde needed to get back to the academy soon. He could barely walk on one leg and both of his arms were useless at the moment. Despite his condition, only one emotion was remaining with him.


    After him and Lapis shared the same statement together, Clyde couldn''t hold it in anymore and began to chuckle.


    Lapis glanced at him for a moment and sighed. As Clyde''s chuckle grew into a full blown laugh, Lapis couldn''t contain himself either.


    The situation is unbelievable. Literally no one would or could believe them. It was basically impossible for themselves to believe.


    Calming down Clyde grew grim. One thing they both knew was true was the carnage surrounding them. People who volunteered to come out with them only to be killed.


    ''I''m sorry.''


    "Let''s get out of here."


    The mood had returned to its original state. Lapis''s usually attitude returned as well as he spoke to Clyde.


    "How are we gonna explain this to Avelyn?"


    "It''s a good thing she knows us because if I were her I wouldn''t believe the story either. In any case we did stop a great threat and the wolf pack is nowhere to be seen, likely eaten by what we dealt with."


    The two could probably go up the road a ways to see the aftermath of the Wolfpack now that the illusion was broken, but there was no time for that now.


    With nothing else to say Clyde and Lapis left the roof and made their way to the street. There the gruesome sight of the members at Clyde''s building were found.


    After taking a moment for the fallen the pair began their journey back to the academy in silence. Neither one was much of a talker and a normal person wouldn''t communicate after an event like this anyway. Clyde could only think of the noise from all the people he came here with and how they''re gone now.


    ***


    Two civilians, a man and a woman, were running in a field outside of Avalor. They decided it they might have better chances in the wild after seeing what''s going on inside the city.


    Running in front of the woman the man started to run out of breath. To his surprise the amount of beast and monsters had grown smaller the further they got.


    "You were right after all my love."


    "I usually am. But seriously think about it, this whole ordeal doesn''t seem right at all."


    Before the man could reply he disappeared in front of the woman causing her to panic. A second later a hand stretched out to her. It was the man.


    As she reached it the hand pulled her in. The bright rays of the sun hit the two for the first time in what was likely a few days.


    Turning around was a dark wall. A dome was what it actually was but from the size of it they only saw it as a wall.


    "I agree this definitely is wrong."


    "Oh really now...."


    "Someone must be behind this. We need to get help!"


    A third voice spoke this time.


    "Say goodbye."


    A tall man with long silver hair appeared out of nowhere next to the two. Dressed in a silver robe that had a strange checkered pattern covering the robe in its entirety, he was unmistakeable.


    "You''re John of the-"


    The man''s head went flying causing the girl to scream. A scream that was cut short as her body hit the ground.


    "I gave you an opportunity to say your peace, and you waste it. People never listen."


    He looked down at his feet that got some blood on it.


    "Even after death I am annoyed by you."


    For the plan to work things at Avalor needed to wrap up. John felt something was wrong especially when his connection to his pet was destroyed.


    ''I guess I have to dirty my hands personally, there won''t be any survivors after all. Lucas was right.''


    ***


    The walk back was becoming unbearably slow. Clyde knew it was due to himself and he felt guilty about it. Not that Lapis showed any signs of caring.


    ''I shouldn''t be complaining, at least we didn''t encounter anything this time.''


    Before long the sight of the structure was in front of them. They had made it back in one piece. Well he was essentially crippled and lapis had deeply cut himself.


    Climbing these last few steps were like agony to Clyde.


    "Give me your arm will you?"


    Lapis didn''t say anything but helped Clyde to continue.


    In front of the door Lapis opened it and pulled Clyde in with him. Avelyn was already waiting for them.


    As the door closed behind them, she walked up to their faces.


    A few seconds went by as she checked their eyes and then she began to talk.


    "Where is everyone."


    Lapis answered.


    "Dead."


    Avelyn took a moment and thoroughly looked at Clyde''s body. From his fingertips to his shoulders the skin was black and blue. His chest piece armor was nearly destroyed and one of his legs was the same as his arms. He would need new armor seeing that his arms were bare alongside the exposed leg.


    "Clyde, are you okay?"


    Clyde groaned.


    "Never felt better."


    Finishing the sentence he coughed a little blood and then replied.


    "Could use a healers touch." S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Avelyn let out a sigh of relief as Lapis rolled his eyes. She lowered her head to reach Clyde''s ear and whispered.


    "You never change do you, my knight?"


    Clyde didn''t bother whispering back.


    "Do not even remind me."


    Lapis looked confused as Avelyn started to laugh.


    "Don''t mind her, she''s crazy."


    Lapis already knew that but he found it amusing Clyde didn''t realize he was just as crazy as her. Not that he would tell him that.


    Before anything else happened Clyde''s eyes closed and Lapis felt the full weight of his body.


    "I''ll take him from here."


    Avelyn picked Clyde up and put him over her shoulder.


    This was just another reminder to Lapis regarding his master. It wasn''t that she was strong or tall. Neither was it about her talent and leadership. It was her gentleness and grace.


    With Clyde on avelyns shoulder she carried him up the stairs and to her office.

 Chapter 20: You can’t change the past

    Chapter 20 - You can¡¯t change the pastClyde had sustained many injuries over the last few days. Because of this he wasn''t coming out of his slumber anytime soon. Currently he was in a room that connected to Avelyns office in a large bed. Despite the comfort his face would twitch in anguish every so often. No one was near him to wonder what he was dreaming about. More accurately, what he was having a nightmare about.


    It was eleven years ago, Clyde was only nine years old. The village he grew up in looked the same as he remembered, well of course it does inside of his head.


    "Clyde! Hurry up it''s time for dinner."


    That voice.


    "Coming!"


    Brushing off the dirt from his face and clothes, Clyde ran toward a small house at the edge of village. His excitement caused him to trip on a stick and create a bruise on his cheek.


    Scrambling to get up and keep moving, Clyde entered the house. A woman with short dark blue hair was waiting for him. She had an apron on with a silly strawberry pattern. Her green eyes pierced Clyde as she ran up to him picking him up off the ground.


    "You''re going to worry your big sister, how did this happen?"


    She began to poke the bruise on his cheek while her other hand continued to hold him.


    "Stop! It''s not a big deal I just tripped and fell."


    Putting him down Clyde''s sister ran her hands through his hair.


    "Eat up I made sandwiches."


    Running around her Clyde made his way to the kitchen and sat down. His sister made the best food he could remember even if it wasn''t really anything special.


    As he was in the process of consuming the sandwich in one bite his sister came from the other room and scolded him.


    "If you eat that fast you might choke. Slow down will you."


    He reluctantly agreed to her command and his eating was paced accordingly.


    Looking across the table he noticed she didn''t have a sandwich and was just watching him eat.


    "Did you already eat?"


    "Of course I did, I couldn''t help myself."


    Clyde never realized until later in life that she was lying.


    In the nine years since the creatures from other realms began to invade the planet, many people had died and a lot relocated to other locations. Clyde and his sister''s parents had died just shortly after Clyde was born. The numbers would reduce in the present age but that was only because of stronger hero''s appearing as time went on.


    As he finished eating Clyde wanted to go practice his sword swings with his sister.


    "Can we please practice today I can feel an awakening any day now!"


    His sister looked at him and rolled her eyes.


    "No one feels and awakening and you aren''t even guaranteed to awaken."


    This angered Clyde.


    "I will just wait and see, but I need to be ready for when the day comes."


    "I''m sorry but I can''t today, I have to go to work soon."


    Clyde''s voice became low as he looked down.


    "But you always work."


    His sister got up from the other side of the table and walked around to him. She wiped the tears that were starting to come from his eyes and hugged him.


    "I''ll wake up up in the morning. I expect you to sleep at a reasonable hour."


    Pushing his sister away Clyde ran to his room.


    Relieving the past always made Clyde feel disgusted with himself.


    Days went by with a similar structure. Sometimes his sister would read to him or tell him tales of their parents. Very rarely an excited Clyde could be seen fumbling around with a wooden stick outside of the house with his sister.


    The beginning of the nightmare always started the same.


    Knock knock knock knock.


    Clyde was sitting in the living area playing with some straw dolls.


    "I''ll get it!"


    Opening the door Clyde saw a prominent woman in a suit. He never got a good look at her face because he was suddenly kicked down.


    He could still feel the sense of disgust she saw when looking at him. Before he could get up his sister came into the room and started yelling.


    "Get away from him! Did you really have to come to my house!?"


    The other woman replied coldly.


    "In case you forgot this is my house. Regardless this wouldn''t be necessary if you just did what you were told. As property your biggest virtue is listening and fufilling."


    "Eat shit!"


    Clyde had never heard his sister say a curse word. And he''s definitely never saw her act this agressive.


    "Have you not learned your lesson? I suppose I''ll need to make an example out of you."


    At the snap of her fingers the most typical grunt came from behind her and made his way to Clyde''s sister grabbing her.


    "Let go of me!"


    The woman had already walked outside and the grunt didn''t bother acknowledging Clyde''s sister. But Clyde couldn''t just stand and watch anymore.


    Running up to the grunt he began hitting as hard as he could. It hurt him more than it hurt the grunt.


    Turning towards his sister the man spoke.


    "Control him or he will be punished with you."


    Clyde was confused.


    ''She''s being punished?''


    His sister interrupted further thinking.


    "Clyde don''t mess with these people. Go to your room."


    Hearing this the woman in the suit popped her head back in the home.


    "He''s gonna watch this as well."


    Another grunt came in and grabbed Clyde.


    After being dragged to the center of the village they were finally unrestrained.


    Clyde thought about attacking again but remembered his sisters word. Plus it''s not like he could actually hurt them anyway.


    Looking at his sister her face was empty. He would never forget it for the rest of his life.


    The woman looked at her grunts and they left with one grabbing Clyde.


    Before long a crowd began to form around the two of them. Addressing the crowd she began to speak.


    "My condolences to you sweet servants of my family, it appears you have been living with a rat."


    She grabbed the back of his sisters hair and threw her down into the mud.


    Clyde began to yell but his mouth was being covered.


    Stepping on his sisters back she began to talk again.


    "Vanessa do you have anything to say for yourself?"


    As his sister raised her head to speak it was pushed back into the dirt with the foot of the woman.


    The crowd didn''t have reactions to what was happening because they would be next if they acted out of line. Of course Clyde didn''t understand this and became resentful of the watchers.


    Now the woman brought his sister to her knees. With her mouth free she began to speak but instead got hit across the back of the head.


    Clyde had gone numb from trying to escape the grasp of the man.


    The other grunt brought a log over and sat it in front of his sister. As he was leaving the woman bent his sister over the log.


    Sparks appeared out of the air in front of the woman and she grabbed a weapon out of it. A long dark thorny whip that had a sinister aura radiating from it.


    This was not the first time it would be used. Or the last.


    The woman tore the back of his sisters shirt off. The next few minutes were foggy and blank in Clyde''s mind.


    The growd was gone and all that remained was Clyde and his sister. As he walked up to her his foot stepped in blood. She hadn''t moved much during the last few lashes.


    "Sister....?"


    Her head tried to look up but it couldn''t move. Clyde dropped down and looked into her eyes.


    When she looked at him the lifelessness he saw in her face earlier had disappeared with color in her eyes instead.


    Her voice was frail and weak.


    "Clyde... listen. Promise... me."


    She was interrupted momentarily as some blood spilled out of her mouth.


    "You''ll live."


    Her eyes were lifeless.


    This new world was full of terrible monsters threatening humanity. Everyday in different places people would die. Clyde failed to realize the biggest threat was still people.


    Clenching his fist he drove them into the ground.


    "I promise you... I''ll kill them all."


    Standing up Clyde turned around and left the village. Later he learned that an inferno level threat opened up and swallowed the village.


    After a month on the road Clyde had became dangerously frail and was on his last leg. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A carriage was coming from behind him and had to stop or it would hit him. The driver of the carriage was annoyed.


    "Move out of the way boy."


    As Clyde turned around his gaze caused the man to lose his attitude.


    The door to the carriage opened and a young girl with a hair color he had never seen before hopped out.


    "My name is Avelyn, who are you?"

 Chapter 21: Caught in the Present

    Chapter 21 - Caught in the PresentClyde woke up in a pool of sweat in a bed he was unfamiliar with. Sitting up he was reminded of the pain. It didn''t feel as bad as it should have but he didn''t mind that much. As the memories of what happened were brought back to him he realized where he was.


    ''Somewhere in the academy.''


    Raising an arm he saw he was pretty much bandaged in all of his damaged spots.


    Avelyn opened the door carrying a tray of food.


    "You''re awake. How do you feel?"


    "Better than I thought I would be. How long have I been here?"


    Setting the tray down on the table next to him she replied.


    "If I were guessing it''s been between a day or two."


    Letting out an exhaustive sigh, Clyde fell on his back.


    "How''s the situation outside and how is Lapis."


    "Lapis was not as heavily injured although from what I understand most of your injuries come from yourself. Things have been very quiet. It''s kind of eerie if I''m being honest."


    As she said that last sentence Clyde could tell from her face that Avelyn was worried.


    "In a minute I''ll get up and look out there. If anything dangerous is nearby I should be able to sense it pretty directly."


    Avelyn shook her head.


    "That won''t be necessary, I''ve had Bell and Lapis scout out a bit. You''d have to go out further than I''d like in your condition to see any potential danger." S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "We don''t have a choice."


    Clyde started to move hastily out of bed but Avelyn stopped him in his tracks with a hand.


    "You can''t even move me out of the way, I doubt you can even feed yourself right now."


    Her other hand had already grabbed a condensed bar of protein. She moved it towards Clyde''s face and he took it from her. However grabbing it with his hand was difficult and painful. It was pretty hard to feel anything also. This led to Clyde dropping the bar on the bed.


    Avelyn smiled before she turned around to walk out of the room.


    "I''ll be just out this door if you need me."


    "Whatever you say."


    Clyde was left alone in the room. He knew that he needed to figure out if anything was going on but Avelyn broke that resolve with reality. At minimum he would need to wait a day before leaving.


    After a crummy attempt at eating the food she brought him Clyde rolled over and got more rest.


    When he woke up again it was unclear how much time he actually slept. Time was becoming more and more difficult to keep track of for everyone. But he did know that he felt amazing.


    ''This is impossible.''


    He slowly unwrapped his body and then unwrapped faster once he saw his body looking completely healed. Perhaps he was adjusting to the burden of power as he tempered his body through combat.


    Getting out of bed Clyde walked over to a mirror. A lot had changed in a few months. The scar on his chest was a reminder. His body also looked different after receiving his new power.


    Avelyns voice almost made him choke on air.


    "Checking yourself out now are we?"


    "Shut it."


    Clyde turned around to face her.


    "Do you have anything spare I can wear?"


    A scheming expression appeared on her face.


    "In men''s or women''s? If it''s girls clothing I''m afraid nothing in hear would fit your size."


    Clyde was used to her teasing but he was driven off the edge today.


    "I''ll find something myself."


    Storming out of the room with nothing but shorts, Avelyn chased after him.


    "You can''t be serious!"


    Without looking back and continuing to press forward Clyde responded.


    "Deadly."


    Continuing out of her office, Clyde reached for the door knob to the hallway and opened. On the other side was Bell who was actually reaching for the door knob to enter.


    Her cheeks became as red as her hair. Stumbling back Bell began to stutter.


    "Cly- Clyde... why are you barely dressed."


    Behind him she saw her master Ava. Whatever thoughts popped into her head caused her to cover her eyes and run away.


    Clyde popped his head out of the office.


    "Bell wait, it''s not what it looks like!"


    Avelyn grabbed Clyde''s shoulder and pulled back in shutting the door behind her.


    "I will go fetch you something appropriate."


    An hour later Avelyn returned with some unremarkable gear. It would do for now before he got something better.


    ''If I ever make it out of here anyway.''


    Half an hour went by and Clyde was ready to leave. Stepping out into the darkness Clyde was alone. But he had an important mission to accomplish.


    Making his way into the city, Clyde left the academy behind.


    ***


    On top of a war horse, John looked magnificent with his hair in the wind. An army of the dead was following behind him. In an hour after gathering the remaining forces in the city he would lay siege to the academy where everyone was hiding.


    ''I really didn''t want to get involved but if you want something done do it yourself.''


    He knew Avelyn was a fearsome woman but her exponential growth had been cut short when she became the headmistress of the academy.


    He himself had not been idle all of this time either. Making a name for himself throughout all of Cieder wasn''t easy after all.


    Being the personal knight of Lucas the All Knowing brought further renown to his name.


    ''Smug bastard.''


    Lucas has that title for a reason. He was never wrong about anything. On top of that he attained credit for every action John did in his name.


    While it was annoying at first, John began to enjoy his assignments. And today he would get to be his true self in front of people living on borrowed time. Under his authority and strength alone, Avalor would fall and become dust.

 Chapter 22: But you can change the future.

    Chapter 22 - But you can change the future.Dread is the only feeling in Clyde''s head right now. He''s gone pretty far away into the city and hasn''t sensed a single creature. Initially he thought that the gargon had returned and slaughtered everything but the idea was shut down. That creature would take a very long time to heal itself if it was capable of surviving long enough.


    There was no other choice than to return and report to Avelyn.


    ''Maybe she would have some idea of where to go from here.''


    As he was walking back something made him halt. It was a smell of smoke. From there he noticed something hitting his skin.


    ''Ash!''


    Clyde''s eyes widened as he bursted into a sprint. After some tall buildings were out of his view, the unobstructed academy could be seen in flames.


    His sprint evolved into an explosive velocity, speed the Clyde had never reached before. Buildings blurred as Clyde approached the academy until he stopped in his tracks.


    The sounds of screaming and clashing were loud. Bits and pieces of different monsters were on the ground. But something else was bothering Clyde.


    His sense screamed danger from all directions at every moment, rendering the ability useless.


    All of the sudden, an iceberg shot out from inside of the academy. A large section of it destroyed the west wing of the building. The coldness it brought also put out the flames.


    ''Avelyn!''


    Clyde ran into the building and went to where the ice structure seemed to originate from.


    Making his way through the halls, bodies of man and beast were found. Most of the human bodies were pummeled or struck with a sword.


    ''A person is behind this.''


    "Clyde! Behind you."


    It was Bell.


    "What''s going on where is everyone?"


    "Ava is holding this guy off right now, me and Lapis were told to evacuate everyone. Right now I''m making sure everyone is out."


    ''Avelyns in trouble.''


    "Alright I''m gonna go help her, keep doing what your doing."


    As Clyde turned around Bell grabbed his shoulder and spoke in a calm voice.


    "Be careful."


    Clyde was off.


    As he got closer to where he believe he needed to go, the wall in front of him exploded filling the hallway with smoke.


    Once the smoke disappeared he saw a man gripping Avelyn by her neck. As the man dropped her to the floor, the smoke covering his face also disappeared.


    It was John the saint. One of the countries most renown heroes who''s conquest have been spread throughout the world. Humanity''s latest rising star.


    But Clyde knew him long before this. During his time with Avelyn, John was one of her many suitors. That was how Clyde knew about his true colors. But even this was not something Clyde believed him capable of doing.


    He was bloody and the robe he was wearing was shredded. Clyde felt his cold gaze.


    "Clyde? I thought a speck like you would''ve died by now. Once I''m done with her you''ll get your turn, so sit like a dog."


    Avelyn was in terrible condition. Her eyes were closed and she was covered in dried blood.


    In the next moment Clyde closed the gap between him and John, hitting him in the face with his fist.


    The interaction didn''t make John move back. It did draw some blood and it definitely pissed him off.


    "You! You actually hit me?!"


    All interest in finishing off Avelyn had left him, leaving his wrath directed at Clyde. Clyde himself would have felt fear and distress from the gaze of the ruthless killer, if not for his own wrath consuming his mind.


    The other first connected as John finished speaking. As Clyde brought forward the third strike John caught his hand.


    "I may be weakened from my fight with her, but don''t be mistaken."


    He disappeared from view and a soft whisper came from behind Clyde into his ear.


    "When this is over, no one will remember you. Not even yourself"


    Clyde coughed up blood and looked down. A blade was clearly piercing his chest and he didn''t even feel it go in.


    The pain was real though.


    His surroundings were rapidly changing until it stopped on a familiar scene. The village he grew up in looked the same. He saw his dead sister collapsed on the ground.


    "So this is the place huh?"


    John''s figure emerged out of nothingness standing across from Clyde. He looked down at Clyde''s sister''s body.


    "Is this someone important to you? I must admit I didn''t expect your deepest despair to be in some shithole."


    The corpse on the ground began to reanimate. As it did John cut its head off. He must have expected a reaction out of Clyde, but instead Clyde focused his eyes on John.


    "I''m not so broken that reality confuses me."


    The space around them changed to a black emptiness with an unknown light source hanging above the two.


    "You''re no fun at all."


    Clyde still felt the pain from the wound but he wasn''t feeling weaker.


    "When you stabbed me it was a trick wasn''t it?" Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    John''s eyes narrowed.


    "Enough games, you bore me."


    Clyde was braced for an attack. The first was coming straight at him and he didn''t dodge. Instead he opted to connect with his own fist. Knowing that he still had the element of surprise, Clyde put it all into this.


    His arms muscles expanded and the fist collided. On impact Clyde sent forth a bolt of lightning hit John point blank. The heat that sparked from that one moment sent both of them flying backwards.


    Clyde''s ears were ringing from the explosion and he felt disoriented. Looking at his arm to his suprised it looked normal besides being a bit red.


    There was no time to waste. Getting up and running into the smoke, Clyde was desperately trying to find his target before he was found first.


    ''There!''


    John was still on the ground. The arm he hit was black and blue. Clyde needed this opportunity if he had a chance of winning.


    As soon as he got close, the scenery changed again.


    They were in a desert and John''s body sank into the sand disappearing.


    Clyde''s senses were still unreliable as he could only feel danger. That didn''t stop him from seeing the sand move out of the way for John''s arrival though.


    They were both across from each other once again. It also seemed that John''s arm was not another illusion.


    "Do I still bore you?"


    John didn''t say anything as he preferred to get this over with. To Clyde''s surprise, John was preparing to attack with both of his fist.


    ''Is he insane?''


    This time the speed that John attacked was much faster, matching the still expression on his face.


    Clyde was hit in the stomach with no time to dodge causing him to vomit. Following that,


    he felt as if he was stabbed repeatedly all over his body.


    ''It''s just how it feels, calm down.''


    But how could he remain calm when false wounds began to open. The mind was powerful after all.


    John grabbed the top of Clyde''s head and raised him up, preparing a final blow.


    At that moment a thunderbolt struck through the academy, breaking the illusion they were in hitting Clyde.


    Enough time had passed for him to recharge.


    The first thing Clyde heard as his hearing was coming back was screams of agony. To be fair he doesn''t know a human who wouldn''t be screaming after their hand just got blown off.


    John was gripping the arm that used to have a hand. In another second his expression went back to calmness.


    Clyde realized what was happening. John was using his ability to numb the pain.


    ''There must be a limit.''


    "You- you stupid bitch!"


    Clyde could bother to respond because he was having trouble standing. The pain he was feeling was powerful and his adrenaline was running low. Both of them needed the fight to end soon.


    Both realized this and the time for discussion was lost, the real fight starts now.


    To go all out Clyde needed to escape the confines of these walls.


    He jumped at John and the two began to push against each other as Clyde kept pushing forward slamming into a wall. John bit deeply into Clyde''s shoulder making him growl. To retort, Clyde pushed his fingers into John''s hand socket.


    As John stopped biting because of the pain, Clyde gathered enough momentum to break through the wall bringing the two on the ground.


    Clyde unfortunately found himself on his back with John above him. In less then a second John began to slam his head down into Clyde''s.


    The first hit hurt like hell, considering Clyde''s nose was barely in recovery from breaking already. As the second was on its way down, he was able to overpower John and bring the fight on their feet once again.


    There was a window nearby and that''s when Clyde realized something. The sun was shining and the main illusion was broken.


    ''He must be on his wits end.''


    In the time it took him to realize this, Clyde was charged and pushed through the window causing glass the spread throughout the ground.


    Now outside on the ground, Clyde looked ahead to see the towering figure of John stepping through the window.


    "It''s over."


    As John prepared to smash Clyde''s head to mush, this would be Clyde''s last opportunity. He had been waiting to use this ability in fear of its repercussions to his body.


    The bright sky became full of clouds in an instant. Right before a foot was in his mouth, time slowed to a near perfect stop. Clyde''s body was pulsating with energy and static energy followed his movements.


    Rolling out of the way Clyde grabbed a shard of glass on the ground and slit John''s throat. The moment he started to cut time flowed forward and John immeasurably tried to cover his throat as he fell to the ground.


    Looking up the clouds dispersed and it was sunny again.


    "I lived."


    His mind spun and his fall to the ground took forever in his head.


    ***


    Bell had been struggling to defend people against this swarm of enemies. Lapis was in the same boat as her.


    They had already lost so many people from the surprise attack. Everyone who could fight was trying to but they weren''t making a dent.


    When the sun broke out and the veil of darkness was gone, Bell let out a sigh of relief.


    ''They did it.''


    Shortly after the clouds came, which made her weary. Before panic could set in it was bright again and the horde of enemies either dissolved or fell over, opting to stay dead this time.


    "Lapis, we really did it!"


    Turning her head, she saw Lapis on his knees breathing deeply.


    The exhaustion followed her next. But there was no time to settle, she had to make sure Clyde and Ava was okay.


    "I need you to check on the civilians and the wounded slayers, I''m going to see what happened."


    Lapis didn''t respond but he understood her directions.


    Desperately searching the academy, she followed the wake of destruction. Eventually she found Ava slumped over on a wall.


    Running up to her, she could see that Ava was still alive.


    Bell pressed both of her hands together and put them onto Ava''s chest. Green light transferred from her body to Ava''s.


    Moments later Ava was conscious.


    In a raspy voice she asked Bell.


    "Where''s John?"


    "I don''t know, I left after I saw Clyde run this way."


    Helping her to stand, Bell lent Ava her shoulder. The two followed blood stains and the signs of a thrashing. One room had a hole blown through it from the room and black soot on the floor. Continuing onward they saw a broken window.


    Walking over, Bell saw him. Climbing out of the window she assessed Clyde''s condition. Holes and cuts with no blood coming from them, one of his arms was irritated and inflamed. His nose was purple and broken once again.


    Putting her hands on his chest, the energy transferred over to Clyde''s body. He didn''t wake up but she felt he would be okay.


    Ava looked through the window.


    "Any signs of John?"


    "Not that I can tell."


    Ava looked at Clyde and made a face that Bell had never seen on Ava before. Perhaps she wasn''t over thinking what she saw the other day.


    "We survived Master."


    "That we did, but we have a lot to take care of."

 Chapter 23: Reborn

    Chapter 23 - RebornClyde had been wondering around in darkness. Sometime or another he realized that he was in his own head.


    ''It''s getting a bit tiresome.''


    As if it was on que, a bright light appeared.


    ''Finally.''


    In a weird trance, the light was getting closer to him while growing dimmer. When the two became one, Clyde experienced a profound change.


    ***


    Bell was making her way to check on Clyde. She hasn''t stopped believing he would wake up but that didn''t help her feelings.


    ''If only I was stronger, then I could have helped.''


    The streets of Avalor were significantly less crowded. The population of twenty thousand dwindled to six thousand during the first wave of attacks. By the end of it all only four thousand and six hundred people were left. Many people were already planning to move somewhere else. The mayor was killed during the blackout, leaving Ava as the top authority in the city. She was busy and didn''t have much time to check on Clyde.


    It has been over a month since he''s been in a coma. During this time herself and Lapis had been training for the tournament. At first Bell was against participating, but Ava explained that the city needed the support and funds that could be gained. It made sense so Bell was giving it her all. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Approaching the building Clyde was located in, the ground shook. Following up was a familiar sight to Bell. The sky became grey and cloudy, then her hair started to rise.


    A thunderous crack spread across the city. Then another


    Boom. Boom. Boom.


    Lightning struck the building multiple times. When it was all over, there was a final explosion on the floor Clyde was staying on.


    Bell disregarded any hesitation she had and ran inside. The building was empty so she did not bother checking for anyone injured. Climbing the stairs, running down the hallway, she reached the room.


    The door was blown off onto the ground and smoke was coming out of the room. Inside she saw him.


    "Bell! How are you doing?"


    He had changed.


    His dark hair had became more blonde, especially on its ends. There was more but she couldn''t put her finger on it.


    She ran to hug Clyde, but as she touched him she jumped back in pain.


    "You''re insanely hot!"


    Clyde laughed.


    "Why thank you very much."


    Bell responded agitated.


    "That is not what I meant. Seriously you''re scorching."


    "Well I did just get struck by lightning a few times and burst with energy. Speaking of I think I got an upgrade."


    It wasn''t just the way he looked, his personality changed as well. Clyde was somber but now he was full of life.


    "Clyde... Are you okay?"


    Looking at her with a strange expression he raised an eyebrow. He scratched his head as he spoke.


    "I guess.. I am a bit hungry. How long have I been out?"


    ''This prick!''


    "A little over a month."


    "I see, well then, I guess I missed the fallout and drama regarding John''s exposure."


    Bell forgot he wouldn''t know. Her eyes darkened.


    "The body was never found."


    The shift in Clyde''s demeanor changed, making him for frightening. His hair began to stand on its own in addition to the room temperature rising.


    "Where is Avelyn?"


    The calm question coming from this form of Clyde scared her. It only took a moment for her to gather her composure.


    "She''s acting as mayor, but right now she would be meeting with the guild members to discuss repairs."


    "I''ll be off then."


    He took one step and then everything was a blur for Bell. Her hair flew in all directions as fierce wind blew in her direction.


    Clyde was gone.


    ***


    ''I''m going way to fast!''


    After going by a few blurry buildings, Clyde stopped.


    It took a lot of energy out of him to move that fast but he wanted to test his capabilities. This wasn''t the same ability that he used to kill John because his perception wasn''t also affected.


    At the exchange of cost he lost control.


    ''Could be useful.''


    The distance he just covered was impressive for the few seconds it took him to get here. Although the journey made him realize he had no shoes once his feet started to burn. From there he noticed that he had nothing but underwear on.


    Fortunately, no one was around to see him.


    ''One of these days I need to get a set of gear that isn''t trash.''


    There was an unused clothing store nearby that Clyde went into and borrowed clothes from.


    ''This will have to do for now.''


    Wearing a white button up and blue jeans, Clyde was ready to discuss matters with Avelyn.


    Leaving the store, Clyde fell to the ground and began to vomit.


    ''Seems there are side effects to the speed.''


    His body felt weaker now as well, though this was probably because he hadn''t recovered from his battle with John. The energy he had been moving with up to this point was because of his second awakening.


    In other words he was in overdrive and now paid the price.


    As Clyde was on the ground groaning, a woman and her daughter were walking by.


    "Mommy look!"


    The woman grabbed her child and covered her mouth hastily walking away.


    ''Great, not exactly the look I''m going for.''


    A few minutes went by until Clyde collected enough strength to move forward. It was a fifteen minute walk from his location to the guild hall.


    After some occasional stops to rest, Clyde was here. Thankfully he didn''t need to climb the steps up the door because Avelyn just exited.


    "We need to talk."


    Her pompous act dropped immediately upon seeing him.


    "Clyde, you''re finally awake."


    She ran up to him and hugged him. Letting go she pointed to his hair.


    "What is up with that?"


    Clyde hadn''t seen himself since he became awake so he did not know what she was referring to.


    "What do you mean?"


    "Your hair is.. dirty blonde."


    It was as if you could hear a pen drop.


    Clyde''s eyes widened in disbelief. He slowly cracked a smile and laughed.


    "Stop messing with me."


    "I''m serious."


    Ignoring her Clyde asked another question with a dark expression.


    "What did I miss with John?"


    "We never found a body when we got to you."


    "I need sometime, I''ll meet up with you later."


    Clyde ran away before she had a chance to respond.


    ''I''m such a fool!''


    Clyde had not taken out the threat like he had believed. There would be no room for complacency in the future.


    Next time, Clyde was determined to crush John, the Saint of humanity, on his own.

 Chapter 24: Prospect

    Chapter 24 - ProspectOne week had gone by since Clyde became conscious.


    Outside of Avalor in a field, Lapis and Bell were dueling each other. Meanwhile, Clyde and Avelyn were just observing.


    Because of Clyde''s second awakening, he would no longer qualify for the arcane crucible. It was crucial that Bell or Lapis would win the tournament so the primary focus would be to train them heavily.


    Both have been improving but Lapis was superior in most regards.


    After a struggle, Bell hit the dirt with a loud thud. Following up, Avelyns voice rang.


    "Stop, both of you are done for today."


    The sun was beginning to set and they had been at it for a few hours already.


    Bell made her way to Clyde and Avelyn. It was then that Clyde realized he had forgot to ask if Avelyn knew Bell. They both had the same hair color and were likely from the same country.


    "I''ve been meaning to ask, do you think Bell is from Redwood also?"


    Avelyn took a second to respond and shook her head.


    "I actually asked her that shortly after meeting her, but she doesn''t remember. I don''t think she is either, there''s something different with her."


    Bell had finally gotten close to them.


    "What are you two talking about?"


    Clyde answered.


    "You."


    Honesty was something Clyde believed in more than anything.


    "Oh.. do you have any tips for me?"


    Clyde answered with the truth.


    "If I''m being honest, I have no idea how to help you. Your abilities are of a holy nature that I''ve never seen before and im sure Avelyn hasn''t seen it either."


    Bell became dejected causing Avelyn to cut in.


    "Bell, you are strong. Your opponent is just stronger, if you let that put you down then you won''t be able to grow. Watch me and Clyde carefully, it might open your eyes."


    Lapis was sitting some distance away and now Bell was going to join him.


    Since Clyde had his double awakening, the only person he could train with properly was Avelyn.


    Because their capabilities were so destructive, the winner was decided by who could land the first hit.


    Clyde was standing across from her. The outline of her body was glowing as the sun was shining behind her. A gust of wind caused her long hair to flow to the side.


    Before she started to move, the dirt below Clyde became ice.


    By now, Clyde was adapt in moving without losing his footing. It did require apart of his mind to focus on stability though.


    She wasn''t able to move as fast in an instant like Clyde, but her speed was constant and threatening on ice. Her mastery was impressive.


    She closed the sizeable distance within three seconds. Clyde had not moved, standing like a statue. Her right arm was raised and a sword of ice manifested into her hand. In the next second she was swinging downward toward Clyde''s head.


    ''Breathe.''


    Over the past week Clyde had learned to divide his power to perceive time. Currently he was only perceiving the motion in front of him, while his body was still moving at a normal pace. Doing this the cost of this maneuver was dramatically reduced. All he needed to do now was shift his body barely out of reach.


    In the next instant the sword was brought down and crashed into the ground. From Bell and Lapis''s perspective, Clyde had threaded the needle, barely escaping the blow.


    Clyde continued to be put on the defensive as Avelyn disregarded her sword and opted to swing her fist. He could not constantly heighten his perception so now he was relying on his raw talent.


    Left, right, right.


    Clyde moved his head out of the way accordingly. On the third strike, he pivoted his body for a counterattack. His heart skipped a beat as he drove his fist upward to her stomach. Just before it connected, she jumped backward, recreating the distance assumed at the beginning of the fight.


    The entire bout was around six seconds. This time Clyde would take the offensive for round two.


    Clyde reached back, and thrust his arm forward. Exiting a finger, a small bolt of energy began to fly toward Avelyn. She had already prepared to block, realizing his plan as he brought his arm back. As the bolt reached the halfway distance, a wall of ice erected from the ground. On collision, the wall exploded, creating a cloud of smoke in its place.


    Taking the chance, Clyde ran into the cloud. The smoke started to dissipate as Clyde neared his target. Avelyn saw him as well but it was too late. The shape of his fist was flying toward her and she had no choice but to prepare herself. Right before impact, Clyde put his thumb to his middle finger and flicked her lightly in the forehead.


    Clyde fell to his knees and raised both of his arms up.


    "I win!"


    Following his grand proclamation, Avelyn slapped him across the face leaving a red mark on his cheek.


    Clyde started to rub his face as she walked off toward the city. Lapis got up and chose to exit with her.


    Bell ran to Clyde with a smile on her face.


    "You finally did it!"


    Clyde had lost every battle against Avelyn at this point so he felt on top of the world. If they actually fought, he was unsure of who would really win because a fight like this was a test of control.


    "That I did! Now it''s your turn."


    Bell had explained to Clyde that after hers and Lapis''s first duel, she had lost every one after that. It was stunting her growth which suprised Clyde.


    Seeing Clyde win today, Bell had a new sense of determination. Her face glowed as her eyes widened. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I will!"


    Bell extended her hand to Clyde, helping him up off the ground. The two of them could be heard laughing while following Avelyn and Lapis back to the city.


    ***


    Somewhere in a private library, a man was sitting in a chair with a book in his hand. He had glasses on that were brown like his hair. Wearing a dark mantle that covered his figure, he emitted an aura of power.


    Groaning he tossed the book to the floor.


    "Why do I try to learn anything new. It''s all repetitive."


    The pile of books on the floor was quite sizable. The books were expensive enough that a person could live a rich life style if they were sold.


    "Come in!"


    There were several knocks on the door.


    "Did you not hear me?"


    John the Saint entered the room. He had fully recovered from the fight with Clyde aside from his missing hand.


    "Have you decided on what to do with Avalor?"


    Lucas was already bored with the conversation.


    "You are still not over that? Show some maturity and accept your failure with grace. It is not everyday someone is so spectacularly weak they deny my truth."


    John gritted his teeth and squeezed his hands. Noticing this, Lucas decided to act.


    "Know your place."


    John was brought to the floor with an invisible pressure. He could not move no matter how hard he tried.


    There was power in absolution.


    "Did I say you could speak?"


    Now Lucas was just playing with him but that got boring. The pressure was released and John struggled to his feet.


    "I was out of line, forgive me."


    "I know you were, it''s funny really. I don''t even need to punish you because fate exist. As a reminder you will amount to nothing, living in my shadow for the rest of time. A thousand years from now, your name won''t exist."


    Lucas stood up and began searching for a book.


    "The man you know as Clyde should have died. He currently exist outside of my authority, but I will restore order. With fate as my instrument he will perish and burn in two months."


    John was glad to hear this but he wanted revenge personally.


    "How is that possible?"


    Lucas dropped a book on the floor.


    "Whoever told you that asking questions gave you knowledge. You being assigned as my knight has made a thorn appear in my side. In one month and three weeks from now attend the arcane crucible. That is your only point of divergence to get your revenge."


    "I understand."


    John began to walk out of the room but was frozen.


    "Do you really understand? My advice is to leave the strings I have placed intact. If you somehow ruin things again... I''ll make sure your afterlife is ruined."


    John couldn''t speak but he was free to move. As he left the room, Lucas was left alone.


    Letting out a yawn, he sat back down.


    "Clyde, I wonder whose authority is backing you."

 Chapter 25: Days Gone

    Chapter 25 - Days GoneTime was relentless.


    Today, Clyde would be taking Lapis and Bell to the Arcane crucible. This year''s competition would be located in the city of Maple. It was the countries second largest city and was a three day journey from Avalor.


    Avelyn would not be joining them, as Clyde was more than capable of keeping them safe. Plus, the duties she was now responsible for required her immediate attention.


    Using the cities resources, Clyde found himself sitting on top of a horse carriage.


    ''I never thought I''d be riding one of these again.''


    Bell was already inside and Lapis was brining the last of the supplies. After a few minutes, Clyde saw Lapis carrying a small box.


    "Are you ready?"


    As lapis put the box in the back of the carriage, he responded.


    "I suppose."


    He quickly got into the carriage leaving Clyde alone.


    Just like that, they set off.


    ***


    Just like that, they were here.


    It was an uneventful journey, in fact the last two months were uneventful. Clyde was glad nothing bad had happened since the blackout incident, but he couldn''t get this feeling out of his head.


    Regardless, he couldn''t deny what was in front of him, so he accepted greedily.


    Maple resembled Avalor, but it was twice as big. The amount of people would also be larger than usual due to the competition. People from all over would be coming to see it. In fact, Clyde had to sit in a line of a carriages while they were all inspected.


    Each street was full of festive decorations, balloons were in the sky in the countries colors, red and brown. Despite it being night, the noise was constant from celebration.


    This was the first time Clyde had been to any festivity of this size, so it was a bit jarring.


    Clyde was walking ahead of Bell and Lapis, the carriage had been left behind some time ago. Avelyn arranged the three to stay at the arenas lodging. Once they were there, Clyde would be seperated and sent to the mentors section, while they would be put in the contestants.


    He would have asked for directions if not for the posters pointing the way.


    Clyde''s thoughts were interrupted by a short woman. She had her hair done in a pony tail and was wearing a rather promiscuous dress.


    "You should visit Ramirez''s bar! It''s the best in town. Here is some discount vouchers"


    Clyde just looked at her hand and moved out of the way. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Seriously dude? Come on give it a chance."


    By now Bell was next to the girl.


    "You should gauge your audience better."


    After the brief encounter, the three were finally at their destination. Now that Clyde was in front of it, it resembled a colosseum. Quartz pillars surrounded and upheld the structure. Large wooden doors were at the buildings center, beckoning the three of them.


    Leading the way, Clyde entered.


    The floor was checkered marble, which contrasted with the walls'' deep red glow. The main room was square with two sets of stairs on the left and right of the back wall. Directly to the left and right was hallways that led to the rooms. In the back middle was a desk that was home to a man in a suit. Stepping up the the desk the man called out to them.


    "Name?"


    "It''s registered under Avelyn."


    The man''s immediately opened a drawer and took out three keys. Walking around the desk he went towards the trio. Handing the three of them their respective key, he spoke clearly.


    "There is two rules while you stay here. A mentor can not enter the competitor wing. Secondly, competitors should not interact with anyone not apart of their team."


    Lapis had walked off to his room just a second after getting the key, leaving Bell and Clyde to hear it. Afterward, they nodded their heads as the man walked back to the desk.


    Clyde gripped his key and put it into his pocket before turning to Bell. Putting his hands on her shoulders, he began to reassure her.


    "You can do this, I believe in you, Lapis believes in you, and so does Avelyn. The only one who does not, is yourself. There will be opponents who are going to pity you and Lapis because we are representing Avalor. Take advantage of their kindness. On the other hand, you must be weary of people that set on obliterating you instantly for the same reason. Any smart person would know that you are a threat because of the tribulation you have overcome. Also, do not overuse yourself. Because you and Lapis are representing a team of ten with just yourselves, you will both be fighting five times the amount you would have."


    Bell was a bit overwealmes with the information, but she understood Clyde''s gesture.


    "I''m prepared. You might not know it, but I have a few tricks up my sleeve."


    Clyde raised an eyebrow. He had missed the past few training sessions while recovering from an intense bout with Avelyn. Attempting to push the limits of his mind and body speeding simultaneously, he had extended the time to five seconds. It might not seem that long, but five seconds in that state was nearly thirty for Clyde. The repercussions were not nearly as bad, though it was still something to be used only in a desperate situation.


    "Now I''m expecting a suprise."


    Bell waved and walked to the left hallway leaving Clyde alone. The only thing left for him to do was obvious.


    ''I guess I''ll go check out Ramirez''s Bar.''

 Chapter 26: It’s about time!

    Chapter 26 - It¡¯s about time!Clyde tried to say something, but couldn''t. His mouth was unbelievably dry and he had the worst headache.


    ''What is going on.''


    Clyde was in some alleyway, hurled over on his side. The crust in his eyes shattered when reality hit.


    ''The competition!''


    It didn''t matter that he had no recollection of the past night. Missing Bell or Lapis''s debut meant a lot to Clyde. Plus, if Avelyn found out she would kill him.


    This is why he stayed away from drinking.


    Judging from the sun, it was roughly noon. The fights would have just started so there was time. Leveraging himself using a pipe, Clyde got off the ground.


    ''Water...''


    The street was full, so it would be difficult to navigate. Approaching the entrance of the alley, Clyde didn''t even know if he could squeeze out.


    Grabbing onto somebody, he was dragged by the wave of people. All of the bodies up against one another, it was getting claustrophobic. The crowd was all going the same direction, which was also where Clyde was going.


    After an excruciating amount of time and a lot of sweat, he had made it. Using his strength, he squeezed past people until he got to the right hallway. There was a bouncer who looked at him.


    "Show me your key."


    Clyde searched his pockets.


    ''Thank god.''


    Showing off the key, he was let inside. Out of the crowd, Clyde got a chance to breathe. His throat was still incredibly dry, so he took the chance to find his room. Looking at his key, it had the inscription one-hundred and seven.


    ''Thank god''


    The one hundred would mean floor one, leaving the seven to be the seventh room.


    As he was opening the door, the announcers voice rang out.


    "Lapis, representing Avalor, is coming to the field once again! His opponent is Krush, representing Praxton, is also undefeated!"


    ''Looks like I missed one fight already.''


    Running to his personal bathroom, Clyde turned on the sink and drank. He swallowed so much water that his belly started to hurt. With that problem out of the way, he could finally go to the pit floor of the arena. Exiting the bathroom, Clyde looked to the left at his room. On the bed were two complimentary water bottles. Seeing this, Clyde facepalmed.


    "A sick joke."


    Leaving his room, Clyde followed a sign indicating where to go. Even while running, it still took a few minutes because of how large the building was. He had already heard some loud noise, which was piquing his interest. On the final long hallway, a double wide door was in front of Clyde. Opening it, the sunlight blinded Clyde for a second. As his eyes cleared up, he saw many other people watching the field in front of them. The field had sand as its flooring, with a large brick wall separating the battlefield from the spectators. Being in the pit, Clyde was level with the duelers.


    The same moment Clyde opened the door and stepped in, Lapis had defeated his opponent. From Clyde''s perspective, Lapis didn''t even have sweat on him.


    ''Good.''


    Making his way closer, Clyde found an open spot. Once he was settled in, the announcer''s voice rang out again.


    "Lapis crushes his opponent in another stunning victory!"


    For half an hour, contestants fought one another. There was not a battle that Clyde found interesting, so he spent time daydreaming. Some of the mentors had been leaving as their contestant was defeated.


    Clyde realized that because of the lineup, Bell and Lapis would be facing multiple opponents back to back. This wasn''t exactly fair, but he couldn''t change the rules. Once the top 10 were decided, they would fight the next day, regardless of whether they were on the same team or not.


    "Bell, representing Avalor, is up next! Her opponent is Bali, representing Rivendale. Clyde''s attention was brought to the field. From one end he saw Bell coming out of a tunnel. Looking at the other side he saw Bali. Bali was a woman who was short like Bell, but she carried this arrogance in her walk. Her hair was brunette and lengthy. Any other features were hard to describe from Clyde''s distance.


    The two both met in the center of the arena. After a loud trumpet, the field immediately exploded with sand flying. The crowd was roaring above where Clyde was.


    ''I wonder what''s going through her head.''


    As vision of the fight was restored, it could be seen that Bali was on the defensive.


    ''Wait a second.''


    Clyde saw that the girl''s weapon had blown away to the other side of the field. Bell''s hands were also glowing a bright yellowish green color.


    ''So that''s how it is.''


    Bell must have repelled Bali''s attack at the start of the fight.


    ''If Lapis was your training partner, then an average student wouldn''t be enough.''


    Bell yelled at the girl who had lost her footing.


    "Do you yield?"


    Bali got angry at the question and prepared to attack.


    Without hesitation, a circular pattern appeared on the ground around Bali. Once it formed completely, Bali was brought to the ground as light was flowing through her body.


    "Stop! I give up!"


    ''She learned sorcery!?''


    It seemed that the announcer shared Clyde''s expression.


    "I can not believe it everyone! Somebody that young performed a ritual incantation. The youth is proving itself to be a powerful force today. The winner is Bell! After our halftime break, we will continue the exhibition rounds. But before you all run off somewhere, we have a special guest who wants to make an announcement.''


    The crowd was cheering before, but now they quieted down.


    ''A special guest? That was a rare occurrence.''


    Once Bell and Bali had been cleared from the field, a man jumped from the stands and stood in the middle of the field.


    This time the crowd exploded louder than Clyde could have imagined. But his feeling was different than theirs.


    ''No....''


    Anger built up in Clyde that he could not contain, anger that he didn''t want to contain. What he chose to do next would affect the future, and not just his own.


    ''That bastard has some audacity.''


    "Attention everyone, I''m sure you''ve heard the rumors of my name being slandered. Anyone with common sense knows I wasn''t in Avalor but some people have doubts. If Lucas the All Knowings truth was not enough for you all, might I make a suggestion. The man who claimed to beat me is here today, come on out here Clyde. Let''s tell the people what really happened."


    Clyde had gained some notoriety from his involvement in the blackout, but no one knew what he looked like. Most people were skeptical of what actually went down because there wasn''t many survivors. Everyone was interested.


    As Clyde stood up and vaulted over the fence, the other mentors who were next to him were in a state of shock.


    As he got closer and closer, Clyde began to lose reason. His heart beat was becoming faster, his mind wasn''t thinking clearly. But he wasn''t so stupid as to make himself a villain of the country.


    "How about we duel then? If I lose then you''ll have proven your point, a humble person like myself could never defeat the saint."


    John stood for a moment and grinned. Opening his mouth, he was stopped in his tracks.


    Clyde was now next to him holding up his arm.


    "Sorry about this by the way."


    John''s stump was out in the open for everyone to see causing many gasps.


    Pulling away, John retorted.


    "Have you no shame?"


    Clyde sensed it though, the fear in John. He didn''t know that Clyde had awakened a second time.


    "I''ll give you one chance! I can kill you publicly and embarrass you here. Or we can exit the building and settle your fate elsewhere. At least that way someone might make up a fairy tale of your glorified death."


    Words and threats were just that. At the end of the day, whoever started the fight physically would be at fault. With so many witnesses, Clyde wouldn''t getaway with just outright attacking him.


    "Clyde, did I ever tell you about honey and the bear?"


    ''What is this moron talking about.''


    "No."


    John became quieter and only Clyde could hear him.


    "There was a large bear that hunters could not kill. Bullets couldn''t penetrate it and neither did metal. One day a brilliant man had a plan to trap the bear with honey. They villagers dug a deep hole and hid the entrance. Luring the bear to the hole with honey, it fell inside and couldn''t get out. It starved to death and made a nice meal."


    "Why are you telling me this?"


    "Have you considered that you are the bear."


    The ground shook with an intense force, sirens began to blast out evacuation commands, but they all exploded. John was staring directly at Clyde.


    The ground beneath Clyde began to open up. In that moment, time slowed and Clyde tried to move. But something held him down, an intense invisible force that was inescapable.


    The crowd was screaming and trying to escape. John struck Clyde in his back with his fist. The pain soared through Clyde''s body. Leaning down John whispered in his ear.


    "Nice knowing you, have fun down there."


    The ground opened up wider dragging Clyde downward. John had already jumped out of the way into the stands, watching Clyde without blinking.


    All of the sudden the ground below Clyde exploded and smoke was sent up at an astonishing rate. Instead of being flung back by the explosion, the pressure on Clyde grew greater. He felt like a steel plates had been sewn onto his body. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''This is bad!''


    Clyde didn''t even know if he could survive going down. Assuming he could, he would be in Hell.


    ''Who could''ve set something up like this!''


    The heat was growing, it was unbearable. Clyde''s sweat was turning into steam, every pore in his body was burning.


    Falling down at an intense speed, the red clay around him began to swirl in a vortex.


    ''Could I even come back?''


    The sky above became dark and nonexistent. The roots in the clay turned into nothing. Everywhere he looked was becoming so dark.


    With a loud snap, Clyde crashed through the barrier between worlds. He had made it to the underworld, but that was still the least of his worries.


    The sky was red and there were no clouds. In the sky, Clyde watched the rift he came from heal instantly. Turning his body he saw a deep wooded forest below him. As fast as he was going, it did not take long to reach the forest. Clyde crashed into a tree and fell on several rough branches. His fall was not cushioned and upon hitting the ground, a large crater was formed. While the crust of the ground was destroyed the tree roots were deep and did not move.


    ''That could have been worse.''


    If this was Clyde a few months ago he probably would''ve died. It also help that he had experience getting thrown into a new realm. But something was strange, he survived but it wasn''t nearly as bad as he was expecting.


    ''What''s this?''


    The back of his head and body were soaked. Pushing himself up he realized he wasn''t standing on the ground. It was a mushed body of a beast.


    What was more interesting was the fact that it was wearing armor with symbols.


    There wasn''t time to reflect when a beast four times the size of Clyde jumped into the hole, looking straight at him. It was built like a Minotaur, but far larger. In its hands was a double sided axe that was twice the size of Clyde.


    What happened next completely blew Clyde''s mind. Expecting a fight, he readied himself.


    "Well done Youngblood! Get ready, more are on the way."


    The creature outstretched a finger for Clyde to grab onto.


    ''What the...''

 Chapter 27: That time I fell to Hell and joined a rebellion

    Chapter 27 - That time I fell to Hell and joined a rebellion''What have I gotten myself into?''


    Grabbing onto the finger, the large Minotaur lifted Clyde out of the crater. As soon as Clyde touched the ground, the creature let out a roar cry that sounded like nothing Clyde had ever heard before. It was low pitched and the sound was seemingly reversed.


    It ran off into the thick trees, leaving Clyde alone.


    ''It really just spoke to me. Wait, it didn''t even attack me.''


    Questions were piling up, but there was no time. Several other large Minotaurs began to charge in the direction the first one went. One shouted at Clyde.


    "Get a move on! We don''t have all day." S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As they ran past him, other creatures began to storm out. A long centipede that was three houses wide, then a black spider with eyes the size of Clyde. None of them even question him being here. The next creature did.


    Coming up on Clyde, a red man the size of Clyde drew a sword. His face looked just like a regular human aside from his eyes. The color was especially unique, appearing like an eclipse. The biggest difference was two twisting horns on each side of his head.


    "Whose domain are you in."


    ''Domain?''


    "I''m not sure what you''re talking about, but I am from the human realm."


    The man''s brow furrowed.


    "I''m not that dumb! Answer me or die."


    "I don''t want to kill you, so don''t make me. I''m trying to get back home, how do I escape."


    "You can''t be serious, a human has no business being here. You also picked a terrible time to visit, we are having a war."


    "I didn''t even know things beyond monster existed down here, now you''re saying I popped into a battlefield."


    "I don''t have time to deal with you, but I can''t leave you alone either in case you''re an enemy. Come with me."


    It''s not like Clyde had any other choices right now so he obliged. Following the man''s lead, the two transverse the forest in the direction of the creatures. Clyde''s wasn''t even sure if they could be considered a creature if they were capable of speech.


    Running by the trees was a special sight. Compared to his realm, they were dark green and significantly larger.


    ''This is not at all what I envisioned being here. Now I''m in a warzone and I''ve already been drafted.''


    Soon the sound of metal clashing and yelling was very loud. Clyde was also starting to see more people, or whatever you might call a person living down here. Now that he thought about it, what was this persons name.


    "What''s your name?"


    The man looked back.


    "I am Brick."


    "Clyde."


    Brick didn''t seem interested in small talk, so Clyde continued to follow silently. The two reached an open field where Clyde saw the battle.


    Sets of banners were raised on the side Clyde was on. It was carrying a design of a lake of fire with and arrow piercing it. Across the field was banners that had a skull with blue flaming eyes. Mortars were going off creating miniature explosions in random areas of the battlefield. The majority of fighting was face to face, with machinery taking a back seat.


    Different affects of monsters and the human like beings were also prevalent. Occasionally Clyde saw flashes of light or saw spectral weapons flying around. There was fire going in different directions in addition to the ground moving around.


    The most frightening thing was the shockwaves of the ferocious power in melee combat.


    Brick stopped to look back at Clyde.


    "I can''t expect you to fight, but if you''re capable I suggest you join me. The winner of the war will determine how easy it would be for you to escape. I could also assure you that joining our side is the right one."


    ''Well that doesn''t mean much''


    Clyde knew better than to trust words blindly, but perhaps in this realm honesty was still alive.


    "I''ll help you for now, but I don''t plan on staying here."


    "This is good, I have been given special orders to assasinate General Mobius. If you''re competent enough, my plan will work flawlessly. For now just continue following me."


    On a battlefield of the size, it would be difficult for an army to notice the two sneaking around the outskirts of the field. It was also helpful that they were small in comparison to their surroundings.


    ''Perhaps this is why they chose him.''


    With the fight raging on, they managed to enter the back line of opposing forces. Every now and then, they needed to stop and hide from scouts.


    Brick decided it was time to go over a game plan. The two hid behind a large tree as he discussed.


    "Now that we are behind them, the first attack will be a surprise. If we get noticed before Mobius is dead, then we are probably gonna die instead. I saw him fighting near the middle of the field so that''s where we will charge. We likely won''t be attacked until we strike first since we are coming from the same time. Just look really angry and put on your best nuxan."


    "What''s a nuxan?"


    The question annoyed brick, but he remembered who he was talking to.


    "It''s the people we''re fighting against. Now let''s go¡ª if he dies, then the battle will be over swiftly."


    Setting off into the battlefield, Clyde had doubts.


    ''I just realized¡ªwhat does the General even look like?''


    It was too late to ask questions anyway. By now they were in striking distance of the enemy forces. Just then, Clyde watched several large Minotaur bodies being flung into the air.


    Brick looked back and pointed in the direction of the mayhem.


    ''Great.''


    This close to the fight, Clyde had already dodged several attacks thrown in his direction. He was positive that none of them were intentional, but that''s just how messy a fight like this was.


    There was a break in the line of soldiers, creating a small opening. Standing alone, facing five different types of beast, was the General. He had two sets of arms, each one holding a different weapon. The top two had long swords equipped, while the bottom two had spears.


    The General was slightly smaller than a large Minotaur, but that was still a massive creature in comparison to Clyde. For apparel, he only had a loin cloth on. Showcasing a body that was war torn, full of scars.


    ''He is really strong.''


    General Mobius started to spin with his weapons stretched out. His form of combat was messy and not something a friendly would want to be near.


    ''That''s why he''s alone.''


    This would be a tough fight, but Clyde was ready. Looking over at Brick, he realize that Brick had already charged ahead.


    Clyde followed behind with a noticeable difference between them.


    Brick was already in position to strike the General, but Clyde had doubts at this point that he could kill him in one blow. He wanted to signal to Brick to wait. Before he could, Brick made a move.


    Clyde watched as Brick effortlessly jumped into the air, coming level with the General''s head. Before he could do anything else, the General noticed him. The left set of hands crushed the enemies directly in front of him, sending them flying backward. With distance between him and the army, he turned to look at brick who was next to his head.


    Taking a step toward Brick, he opened his mouth and swallowed him. By that point he noticed Clyde standing a distance below him. Clyde stuck out because the General knew that none of his men would be in range of his fighting.


    Looking down at Clyde, the General spoke in a loud voice, one worthy of a commander.


    "Come!"

 Chapter 28: Praised by the Demonic Army

    Chapter 28 - Praised by the Demonic Army''Shit.''


    Clyde couldn''t gauge his strength in comparison to the General, but he thought it wouldn''t be easy.


    The General was annoyed at Clyde''s hesitation.


    "I guess I will come to you."


    Each step the giant took made the ground tremble. The wave of enemies that was behind him were soon blocked off as soldiers took his place on the front line.


    It seemed that no creature was bothering to help the General deal with Clyde either, knowing that they could lose their life.


    They were so close that the General could crush Clyde beneath his foot. He was a bald headed beast with thick eyebrows. Looking down at Clyde with anticipation, a large grin appeared on his face.


    "Was he your friend? He tasted really good, I guess I''ll eat you too."


    Clyde didn''t show any emotion in his face, not that he felt any from the death of Brick.


    "I actually just met him, but your cruelty has let me know what must be done."


    Since he couldn''t afford to exhaust everything in this fight, he decided to test the waters.


    The spear on the left came down to where Clyde was standing. As he jumped out of the way, the second spear was already on him. Unfortunately for the General, Clyde''s size was a big advantage.


    The General misjudged the positioning of Clyde, likely underestimating his jump strength. This caused the second spear to go just under Clyde. Following the attack, Clyde landed on the second spear and began to run on it.


    As he ran, the top arms came swinging from both directions-one was coming at Clyde''s head, the other at his body.


    ''Lets thread the needle.''


    The swords flying at him were not fast enough that he couldn''t naturally dodge them. Because of that, Clyde was able to just speed up his perception. With the world around him moving in slow motion, he began to twist his body according to the pathing of the swords.


    Whenever he was in a good position, the pressure on his mind lifted, and the blades flew over and between him.


    The General was baffled at Clyde''s swift movements, and Clyde was ready to capitalize. Landing back on the spear, he continued forward. As he was approaching the hand grasping onto the spear, Clyde jumped again, landing on the wrist of the General.


    When his feet left the weapon, he sent a surge of energy into it, electrocuting the wielder.


    All of the General''s weapons hit the ground as Clyde continued to climb on him. The top sided arms raised into the air, while the bottom ones went down. Clyde enhanced his legs for another long jump, this time he was aiming for the armpit hair of the upper arm.


    Using the hair like a rope, he swung himself onto the General''s upper shoulder.


    The General was roaring madly as this was happening. Clyde didn''t feel too bad because he had to deal with that awful smell.


    As the General turned his head to his shoulder, he saw Clyde right before his eye. It would be the last thing he ever saw with that eye. Clyde drove his fist into the General''s right eyeball causing sparks to fly out.


    The giant began to fall on its back, so Clyde latched onto eye causing more pain.


    Upon hitting the ground, Clyde did not stop. Jumping off of one eye and onto the other, Clyde repeated the same attack. The attention of the entire battlefield was now on this fight.


    It was as if the entire atmosphere of the battle changed completely. Creatures next to Clyde started to run away, while the new energetic army chased them.


    ''That wasn''t so bad either. I''ve grown far stronger than I thought.''


    Soon, Clyde saw a familiar face.


    The same Minotaur that picked him up when he got here came up to him. He was unmistakable because one of his horns was missing.


    "Youngblood! It was you who had slain Mobius! We must celebrate."


    The last statement was more of a command than a suggestion. He lowered his hand down to Clyde, beckoning him to climb on.


    ''I''ve came this far.''


    As he climbed on, the beast move his hand to his shoulder so Clyde could sit up there. By now, other creatures that were chasing off the enemy soldiers were returning, all chanting the same thing.


    "Victory! Victory! Victory!"


    The Minotaur Clyde was riding also joined in. Clyde decided it was best to lay low instead of joining in.


    Clyde was being brought back into the woods with the army. As they were traveling, the Minotaur started to sing Clyde''s praises.


    "I''m telling you Reginald, he fell from heaven and obliterated the enemy! Then I saw him pluck the eyeballs out of General Mobius."


    The tales were starting to get exaggerated and out of hand, but Clyde didn''t mind.


    The large blob of jelly laughed at the Minotaurs remark. Clyde continued to watch as more and more creatures were surrounded them. Pretty soon the army began to chant something different than before.


    "Youngblood! Youngblood! Youngblood!"


    As the praising quieted down, the Minotaur he was riding on finally asked him a question.


    "I almost forgot to ask! What clan are you from?"


    The surrounding beast and human like monsters all went quite, anticipating an answer. Since Clyde obviously wasn''t apart of Hell, he didn''t belong to a clan here. Remembering Brick''s reaction to him being from the human realm, an idea appeared in Clyde''s head.


    Getting off his feet and standing up, Clyde made a profound statement.


    "I am Clyde, the clan I am apart of is none other than my own. It''s called the House of Fracture."


    After listening, the creatures began to laugh, howl, or growl. After a minute, they began to shout. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Youngblood isn''t apart of a clan!"


    "He should join my clan!"


    "If he really did start his own, I might join it!"


    The voices started to drown each other out until the Minotaur silenced them with a cackle.


    "Calm down everyone, perhaps Youngblood is a private individual, or maybe he really does have his own clan. Either way he should be rewarded, his help saved us a lot of time. I think the queen would want to see him."


    ''The queen?''

 Chapter 29: Brief Respite

    Chapter 29 - Brief RespiteThere was no time of day here, like there was in the realm of the humans. The sky above was constantly maroon. So Clyde was surprised whenever the monsters started talking about settling down for nightfall.


    He was standing away from the others near a tent. From Clyde''s point of view, the tent was the size of a large house. Luckily they had lodging for beings the size of Clyde.


    Deciding it would be a good idea to meet with the human-like creatures, Clyde tried to introduce himself. Leaning off the massive tent, he thought the best place to start would be the smaller tents.


    His presence did attract some attention, but the beast chose to leave him alone for now. Clyde had already been asked to join several different clans, a concept he still didn''t understand completely. To his surprise, a few creatures asked to join his own clan.


    Clyde told them all yes, which hopefully wouldn''t be a problem later. Technically, his clan had two members, excluding himself.


    The large Minotaur he met asked to join pretty directly after camp was set up. Clyde recalled he said something along the lines of following strength. The other was a human sized spider. Clyde mostly said yes out of fear, but that was all it took.


    Taking longer than expected, Clyde finally reached the smaller tents deeper into the center of the camp. He needed to be careful about revealing his true nature.


    Seeing Clyde''s entrance, a small, blue human-like creature walked up to him. He had glasses and short grey hair. He was currently wearing a dull leather tunic, likely preparing for sleep.


    "You''re Clyde right?"


    His voice was higher pitched than Clyde was expecting.


    "That''s me, and you are?"


    "They call me Quinn. I have another question for you."


    Quinn intrigued Clyde because he was very straightforward.


    "Go on."


    "Why are you pretending to be an Inferi? I''m not strong but I''m intelligent, and you are a human."


    This boy had completely figured out what Clyde was trying to hide. At least he found someone to learn from.


    Grabbing the Quinn''s arm, Clyde dragged him behind one of the tents. When he let go, the Inferi was blushing and clearly startled.


    "Sorry to grab you like that, I just need to be cautious. I''m under the impression most of you don''t like Humans."


    "You''re not wrong, but don''t worry about me. Think about it¡ªif I really disliked you, I would''ve told people by now. I just want to learn more about your kind."


    Letting go if Quinn''s arm, Clyde relaxed himself.


    "That makes sense. I think we can make an exchange. I need to know more about your people, the Inferi. You wish to learn about Humans and why I''m here."


    Quinn''s yellow eyes began to glimmer.


    "I would love nothing more! But I have one more request. You mentioned having a clan right?"


    "I did."


    "Is there any chance you would let someone like me in? I''ve mentioned that I''m not strong, but I more than make up for it in insight."


    Clyde acted like he was taking his time contemplating.


    "I don''t see a problem with it, as of this moment you are a member of the House of Fracture."


    Quinn became erratic.


    "Finally, I''ve been trying to join one for almost sixty years now!"


    ''Sixty years!!? For someone who looks younger than me, they are that old. They must age differently than humans.''


    "By the way Quinn, what is a clan."


    Quinn''s jaw might as well have dropped to the floor. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I have made a grave mistake."


    He fell to the ground with his hands covering his face. Clyde didn''t imagine this reaction at all, the meaning of a clan must be deep.


    "Are you gonna fill me in?"


    Quinn begrudgingly answered.


    "A clan is a pact. It''s a permanent as life and death in this world. Members should treat everyone''s lives as their own. Most importantly, it''s beyond simple words or promises. In this realm, a clan is like a natural law."


    "It''s not like my clan is real or anything, I just made it up on the spot."


    Quinn became a bit angry.


    "That''s all you had to do! It''s such an intangible thing here¡ªliterally no one would state their clanship, because it meant that you couldn''t join another clan! I initially thought you had some knowledge of what a clan was. Best case scenario, you were the head of some infamous, powerful group."


    Clyde ran a hand through his hair.


    "I guess I''m just not comprehending the scale of your words. It sounds like the way in comrade should act with each other."


    Quinn let out a hysterical chuckle.


    "Look into yourself, and I mean that literally. Close your eyes and imagine your heart beating."


    Listening to her, Clyde followed her instructions. He saw a heart pulsing in and out. Suddenly, three small, shimmering lights surrounded it.


    "You see them don''t you? Each of those is a representation of a member. In case you forgot, it''s like a natural law here. We are literally bounded! It might not be a big deal to you since you''re not from here, but it is to me. In exchange for your assistance, we pledge our existence to you."


    This was a lot to take in, Clyde only felt more questions in his mind.


    "What do you mean my assistance and how exactly is your existence mine?"


    "A clan''s leader is supposed to be powerful, their duty is to protect their people and provide. A member is bound to be loyal, the will of our leader is absolute. Going against it could result in death, if the clan leader wanted it to."


    Clyde was finally realizing what he had got himself and others into.


    "I''m sorry, Quinn, but rest assured, I would never forfeit a life for any reason."


    Quinn looked up at Clyde with a heartfelt reaction.


    "For some reason, I trust you. In fact, I believe you were meant to be here. Do you mind telling me how you ended up in this place."


    Clyde told Quinn about falling down a hole in the human realm, and the rest of the story to this point. His face was calm, displaying focus as he listened.


    "That is a crazy idea to swallow. I don''t think you''re lying either. There''s a lot to discuss, but for now I think it''s best we get some rest."


    Clyde couldn''t disagree as he himself was beginning to feel an intense pressure to sleep.


    "I agree. By the way, do you have any room in your tent? I don''t have anywhere else to go."


    Quinn''s face became flustered once again.


    "Yes, you can sleep inside. I have a spare sleeping bag."


    Following Quinn to his tent, Clyde wondered if he was putting too much pressure on him. He had never seen someone get so flustered over something this simple. Perhaps it was a difference between the Inferi and humans.


    Lying down, Clyde got some much needed rest.

 Chapter 30: A New Day?

    Chapter 30 - A New Day?As Clyde''s eyes closed, they immediately opened again. Quinn was already sitting up and looked over at Clyde.


    "Good morning!"


    "Good morning?"


    Although there was no sense of time passing, Clyde felt completely rested. Quinn must have realized Clyde''s misunderstanding.


    "I forgot, you aren''t from here. Sorry. In this realm, sleep is apart of natural law. You must have felt it too¡ªthe overwhelming sense of fatigue calling you to sleep. The moment we fall asleep, our bodies under go intense rejuvenation. I should also let you know that it''s impossible to fall asleep here without the calling; in fact, you can''t even pass out. In terms of actual time passing, only a few moments have passed."


    "What a strange place."


    Quinn laughed.


    "I could say the same about your home. It''s time to leave; we are returning to Her Majesty."


    Quinn left the tent leaving Clyde alone.


    ''That''s right, I''m supposed to receive a reward.''


    Leaving the tent, Clyde saw all the other Inferi making their way out of the camp. Quinn was already gone somehow, so Clyde followed the masses.


    Eventually he ran into the large Minotaur.


    "Youngblood! Hop on, we have a journey ahead of us."


    Clyde wasn''t going to say no, and the view up there was nice.


    After an hour, the army had made their way out of the forest. Now, they were in a large clearing, and a castle could be seen in the distance. From here, Clyde could only tell that it was made from a material resembling obsidian. Additionally, there were lights surrounding the base of the castle, which were probably tents.


    Traveling across this cleaning alone would be deadly. Geysers constantly sprayed fire, but it seemed the army knew where to walk. At the very least, the Minotaur knew because he was leading everyone.


    ''Now that I think about it, who is this army''s commander?''


    Clyde thought about asking the Minotaur, but decided against it, knowing he would be found out. This was something he ask Quinn later. Then, a wicked thought entered Clyde''s head.


    ''Surely the Minotaur isn''t a General; he wanted to join my clan after all.''


    Aside from the geysers, the ground was rigid and dark. Clyde noticed a few signs planted in certain section, each marked with a large cross. Since the army avoided those areas, he couldn''t tell what made them so dangerous. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Halfway across the field, the Minotaur raised his hand, halting the army. This made Clyde realize that it was more likely than not that the Minotaur was some sort of commander. What really alarmed him however, was the reason of the stop.


    A large winged creature was charging toward the army. The beast''s head had no eyes: in their place was a large snout. Its mouth was circular and looked like a vacuum with a swirl of teeth. The skin was pale and hairless, cresting a nasty sight.


    Everyone in the army was silent, careful to make no noise.


    The beast flew faster and faster, and Clyde was positive it would attack. Regardless, he sat still, like everyone else.


    Just as quickly as it came, it was gone. It flew directly over everyone and continued onward. When it was a distance away, a blood curdling screeching noise pierced his ears.


    As the Minotaur lower his arm, Clyde turned to his ear to question him.


    "What the hell was that?"


    "Youngblood, you''re lucky you''ve never encountered a draven before. As long as you stay quiet, all will be fine."


    The creatures Clyde had seen were different from those that came out of the holes in the human realm. So far, everything Clyde had known had been thrown out the window. Beasts were capable of speech, not all of them were hostile, and there was even the Inferi¡ªsomething Clyde hadn''t thought possible.


    Now he was siting on the shoulder of a Minotaur, on his way to meet the Queen of Hell.


    The Queen was his best bet on getting home. If anyone knew a way, it would be someone with proper authority. Even though it was a risk asking, he didn''t have better options.


    As they got closer to the castle, Clyde noticed that despite its size, it wasn''t big enough for creatures like the Minotaur. Honestly, he wasn''t sure many creatures besides the Inferi would be able to enter it.


    Originally, Clyde had thought the hierarchy of Hell was based on strength. If the Queen really was an Inferi, that would change everything.


    By now, it was obvious that the castle was more of a fortress. It didn''t contain any windows, instead there were small holes with cannons and other weaponry. The roof of the fortress was flat, with Inferi soldiers looking out from it.


    Approaching the camp, the Minotaur put Clyde on the ground.


    "My people we remain here, follow the small ones in Youngblood. I''ve instructed them to mentioned your deeds."


    Clyde nodded and walked away.


    ''His people...''


    The politics of this war were deep.


    Without having to wait long, a smug Inferi found Clyde.


    "I''ve been told that you performed well in the last battle. Apparently you believe that you deserve a reward."


    "I didn''t say anything about a reward-"


    Clyde was cut off by the man''s hand.


    "Frankly, I don''t care. I''m get paid either way, follow me inside."


    The Inferi turned around to walk, but quickly stopped himself and looked back at Clyde.


    "I forgot, please prepare yourself. The queen expects a level of decency that you aren''t showing right now."


    ''Is this prick for real?''


    Thinking about it for a second, the back half of Clyde was drenched in blood from his fall. His hands were also covered in blood from the fight.


    ''Maybe he has a point.''


    "Is there a place I can wash up?"


    "Wash up? No you can''t, not here anyway. Now that that I''ve thought about it, someone like you wouldn''t have proper attire. Before I take you to her, I''ll fit you appropriately."


    Clyde had a feeling he would be wearing something ridiculous, but it''s not like he could say no.


    Inside the fortress, Clyde found himself in a room with two doors. In the center was a wide double door that presumably led to the main chamber. To the right of Clyde, where the man was waiting, was a smaller door.


    "Inside, you should find a suit up to par."


    Pushing the door, Clyde entered.


    ''Absolutely not!''

 Chapter 31: Audience With The Queen

    Chapter 31 - Audience With The QueenHe would never live this down.


    Stepping out of the room, Clyde watched as the Inferi grew a small smile.


    ''This was on purpose.''


    "You look excellent, a worthy outfit for the Queen to see."


    The outfit made Clyde feel like he was trapped in a circus act. The leather tunic, striped black and white like a jester''s costume, clung to his body uncomfortably, its seams tight against his skin. Each stitch was exaggerated and seemed designed to make him stand out, but it only made him feel more out of place. The sleeves, far too long for his arms, were puffy and pressed weirdly against his arm hair. His hands were already sweaty from the awkward way the fabric bunched around his wrists. The trousers, far too tight in all the wrong places, felt like a second skin that only made every movement more conspicuous. The cut was all wrong¡ªtoo short, leaving a noticeable gap of exposed skin between the hems of his pants and the tops of his polished shoes. And the shoes... they were the worst part. Squeaky and shiny, they reflected the light like mirrors.


    If Avelyn saw him now, he might die of embarrassment. Clyde looked at the Inferi, a dark expression appearing across his face.


    "There will be payback for this." S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Inferi almost chocked on something.


    "I see... I meant no disrespect... it''s just a custom here."


    He moved to the double wide door and opened one of them.


    "Her Majesty will see you now."


    Before Clyde went inside, he noticed that the lights were off. It was just pure darkness in there. Giving a strange look at the Inferi, the Inferi just nodded back.


    ''Alright then.''


    Walking inside, Clyde watched the last bit of light disappear as the door shut behind him.


    If Silence had a volume, it would be deafening. Clyde was incapable of seeing anything at all. It was always hot in Hell, but in this room, he felt a chill run down his spine. An otherworldly voice called out to Clyde, laced with a sense of sultry command.


    "Are you my next Kingslayer, human? Or are you simply making a mockery of my authority?"


    Clyde''s lips opened on their own, forced to answer.


    "I am just a slayer, seeking a way back to the human realm."


    The words he said were the truth, but Clyde couldn''t believe she was capable of making him speak. Before he could contemplate on the Queen''s unnerving abilities, she began speaking again.


    "It seems you''ve come to waste my time... but a slayer, you say? From what I''ve heard, you are more capable than any average slayer I''ve encountered . Not that I get the opportunity to indulge in their presence down here. I want you to come closer.. let me feel your soul."


    Clyde''s body began to move, not of its own accord, deeper into the darkness. His heart was racing, but his senses told him he wasn''t in danger... not yet, anyway.


    Coming to a stop, he couldn''t see it, but he felt a hand press against his chest, the fingers were stretched out. When the Queen''s voice rang out this time, it was only a few feet away from Clyde.


    "You''ve already reached the second stage of awakening. That explains why you''ve survived down here. How cute... it seems you were bold enough to establish a Clan. What kind of name is the House of Fracture? Oh, this is interesting."


    A soft glow radiated from his chest where her hand rested, then gradually dimmed. He felt as if his entire being was being examined.


    "You''re a deathwalker..."


    Clyde could feel the queen''s breath against his ear as she whispered.


    "Just like me..."


    She removed her hand from his chest and stepped back once more. The entire time, Clyde was unable to speak, even if he wanted to.


    "I can get you home, but on one condition. I''ve been at war with my father for two hundred years, and we''ve been in a stalemate for the last fifty. But you, like me, are another outlier to the tapestry of fate. We can help each other. If you assist in defeating that wretched old man, I''ll do everything in my power to help you."


    Clyde felt the Queen get closer to him.


    "Do we have a deal?"


    Compelled to answer once again, Clyde opened his mouth, but this time, he had the ability to say what he wanted. Thinking about it, she was his best hope¡ªand she knew it. She had all the leverage. With no choice in the matter, Clyde complied.


    "Yes."


    Before Clyde knew it, something unexpected happened. The darkness surrounding him receded just enough for him to see the Queen. Her skin was as pale as snow, and she stood taller than Clyde, her red eyes piercing through the shadows. She had black hair that went down to her waist, and she wore intricate black armor with red lining.


    She took took two steps toward him, and her right arm grabbed the back of his head, pulling it toward hers. They exchanged a deep, but brief kiss before she let him go. During the kiss, Clyde felt like a unbreakable bond forming between them.


    Clyde was stumbled, taking a few steps back. Soon, the darkness returned, erasing his vision, and then the Queen''s voice cut through it.


    "The Inferi always remember their first deal. I wonder... would you?"


    The Queen let out a small chuckle before continuing.


    "It''s done. There''s no taking back what was discussed here today. I''m sorry to say you got the short end of the stick. It could be years before you make it home, but don''t worry too much. Time flows differently down here than it does up there, so you won''t miss anything important."


    The door behind Clyde emitted a light, guiding him to the entrance. As he turned around to leave, the Queen had one final thing to say.


    "By the way, that suit your wearing wasn''t necessary. I''ll find you later and properly equip you with armor of the underworld. Until then, I''ll have my men set up a spot for you in the camp."


    Clyde left the darkness of the fortress with mixed emotions. The Queen was impressive and powerful. One thing was certain¡ªhe would not be forgetting his first deal anytime soon.

 Chapter 32: Gearing Up

    Chapter 32 - Gearing UpGetting rid of his stupid outfit, Clyde put his old attire back on. After hearing that he would be getting new armor, he was excited. Hopefully it would be able to withstand his own attacks.


    Once he finished changing, an Inferi covered in a suit of armor was waiting for him. They didn''t say anything, but signaled for Clyde to follow with a hand motion.


    Their movements were stiff and calculative, leading Clyde to believe the person was some sort of royal guard. At the very least, they were someone that was upholding a degree of prestige.


    Passing by tents selling merchandise, Clyde saw an abundance of liquid being sold. It reminded him of how thirsty he was. Of course, now Clyde had a different realization.


    ''I''m broke here!''


    He had been bumming off of Avelyn for so long, he forgot what it was like. Now that he could potentially be here for awhile, he had to learn what the local currency was.


    The situation was not in Clyde''s favor, but there was a silver lining in the Queen''s words. Time moves differently here, so even if he is here for awhile, it won''t be that long in comparison above.


    Clyde was also worried about his friends Bell and Lapis, the situation at Maple must have gotten out of hand. He could only hope they made it out fine. If John did anything to them, there would be hell to pay.


    The suit of armor leading him stopped in front of a small tent at the far end of the Inferi section of camp. They pointed at it and left.


    ''So this is my new home.''


    Stepping inside, there wasn''t much. Not even a sleeping bag. It didn''t really matter since the concept of sleeping didn''t exist here, but it would''ve been nice. Sitting down on a mat, Clyde decided to examine his conversation with the Queen.


    She was a deathwalker, like him. Interestingly, she mentioned the idea that they were beyond fate''s rules because of that.


    ''What actually made me survive that day.''


    At first, Clyde believed it was because of his own will but that couldn''t have been true. After being thrown out of the land of dust by Orion, he met an old man, who told him they had met before.


    ''What does it all mean?''


    He was interrupted by a familiar face. Quinn poked his head through the tent.


    "Clyde! What happened in there?"


    "You can come in, but it might be a good idea to knock next time. Inside the fortress, I met with the Queen and we had a discussion. I''m assuming my reward is going to be this new set of armor I''ll be getting. Oh... me and the Queen also made a deal."


    Quinn became flustered, which made Clyde think by now that it was just Quinn''s personality to get flustered easily.


    "You! A deal! The Queen! I can''t believe this! Maybe I joined the right clan after all."


    "Don''t get your hopes up, all I''m getting out of it is a way out in exchange for helping in the war."


    Quinn had a deadpanned expression.


    "So you got scammed."


    One of Clyde''s fists hit the ground.


    "It''s not like I had a choice. She was the best bet I had of getting out of here."


    As Quinn sighed, he put his hands on his head.


    "I can see your situation. If you plan to stay here awhile, I think you should increase the number of members in the Clan."


    Clyde was taken aback by this statement, considering he had told him off about it the day prior.


    "I thought you said it was a bad idea!"


    "Well it was when I thought you were gonna go off, but now you''ve made a pact with the Queen."


    Clyde''s insight told him all he needed to know.


    "This is about you, stabilizing your future isn''t it?" Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You''re not wrong, but it would be a benefit to you also. A loyal soldier would be good in a war."


    "I''ll think about it."


    The two sat in an awkward silence until Clyde broke it.


    "I am incredibly thirsty, do you have any water?"


    "Water doesn''t exist here, we have another liquid we drink to sustain our bodies. I''ll be right back."


    When Quinn left, Clyde was reminded of the bottled liquid he saw on the way down to his tent.


    ''It looked liked water to me.''


    A moment later, Quinn returned with a small bottle of the same liquid and handed it to Clyde.


    As he put the bottle to his lips and the liquid went down his throat, a sour taste filled his mouth. If he wasn''t so thirsty, Clyde would have spit it out.


    "What is this stuff?"


    "Oh... it''s apple juice we make from some of the trees."


    "Now that I think about it, how do trees even grow down here?"


    "They just naturally grow from the ground, I couldn''t tell you why."


    The two were interrupted by the Queen, who had showed up for Clyde''s armor arrangements.


    "Leave."


    The Queen''s simple command made Quinn exit the tent instantly, leaving Clyde and her alone together. Away from the shadows, the looked incredible. Despite that, there was a dark aura, barely noticeable, hovering around her armor.


    The Queen noticed that Clyde was gazing at her.


    "Seeing that we will be working together, your name is Clyde, isn''t it?"


    "Yes, if I may ask, what is your name?"


    The queen pondered for a moment.


    "You''re being a bit too forward, my dear, but I''ll tell you my name. I''m Maeve.


    "Should I call you Maeve or Majesty?"


    Maeve''s expression was smug.


    "Do you really need to ask?"


    He decided to test the waters. If this was going to be a long partnership, it would at least start on equal footing.


    "Ok Maeve it is."


    Upon hearing him say her name, a corner of Maeve''s mouth lifted.


    "Daring, aren''t we? I''ll allow it."


    ''Success.''


    She motioned for him to follow her out of the tent.


    Eventually, they arrived at what Clyde guessed was the barracks. Located on the left side of the fortress, the equipment was out in the open.


    "Judging from your size, I believe that one of these three suits will suffice."


    One suit stood out to Clyde. The armor was forged from dark, otherworldly metal, etched with glowing, crimson runes. The chestplate was embossed with bone-like patterns, and the gauntlets were sharp-edged. It''s leggings were reinforced with jagged metal plating. He could feel it calling out to him.


    "I would like to try this one on."


    A few minutes later, Clyde had the armor equipped. Moving around in it felt light, despite its obvious defensive qualities.


    ''Must be the alloy used from this place.''


    The Queen seemed like she was dying to speak.


    "Shall we have it tested?"

 Chapter 33: A Duel

    Chapter 33 - A DuelEven though Maeve''s words were phrased as a question, Clyde didn''t have a choice in the matter. He would be lying if he said he wasn''t interested in how he measured up.


    "That would be a good idea."


    Maeve smiled at him.


    "I know just the place."


    She took two steps toward Clyde and grabbed one of his hands. In the next moment, shadows enveloped the two of them, only darkness filled his vision.


    Clyde tried to hide his panicked expression, but Maeve saw through his fa?ade. As the shadows began to swirl in a circular motion, she spoke.


    "Relax, it''s faster this way."


    A second ago, they were at the barracks; now they were indoors. The room was made of a strong white material resembling marble, with weapons lined against the walls. Maeve had let go of Clyde''s hand and took a few steps away from him.


    "Did we just teleport?"


    Trying not to laugh, Maeve brought a hand to her mouth.


    "In a sense, we did move through space. It''s not because I can go wherever I want, though. I am bound by my own authority. One day, you might understand what I mean. My soul has undergone three awakenings, allowing some of my actions to transcend natural law."


    This was alarming news to Clyde. At this point in the human realm, it was only a rumor that a person could awaken again. The gap between the first and second awakening was big, but not like this.


    When Clyde underwent his second awakening, he gained a deeper understanding and control over his powers. Physically, he also became much stronger than before.


    "How can I reach your level?"


    Maeve''s expression darkened as she looked to the side, her gaze fixed on something beyond Clyde''s understanding. She let out a somber tone as her eyes closed.


    "Your third awakening is not the same as the second. It would be more accurate to say that it''s the abilities that awaken in the third round."


    Moving her head, she looked into Clyde''s eyes, encompassing his vision.


    "Everyone has a will. Some are weaker than others, but the biggest difference between yours and mine is simple. I am absolute and you are not."


    Clyde watched as the shadows began to form a mask of darkness around her face. Her armor darkened as well, being imbued with shadows. Maeve spoke, her voice calm but commanding.


    "If you manage to hit me, I will talk about the conditions of my third awakening. Don''t worry, I''ll be going easy on you. Otherwise, you wouldn''t stand a chance."


    Clyde stood still, gazing at the darkness.


    "Your move, your majesty." sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She disappeared from his sight. There was no sound or anything to signify her speed. His sense weren''t picking up another person in the room. That was until Clyde felt the darkness break behind him. A familiar scene unfolded as Maeve whispered into his ear.


    "Arrogance is the epitome of failure."


    Her hand shoved Clyde forward, nearly causing him to trip.


    The shadows concealed her once more, rendering Clyde''s senses useless. Turning around he saw Maeve standing, waiting for his turn.


    She might be fast, but Clyde was sure he was faster. Granted, her speed was natural, while his wasn''t.


    ''Let''s see how she handles this.''


    Clyde closed the gap with explosive force, a trail of sparks tracing his movements. His right fist was already heading toward Maeve''s stomach.


    When his fist was supposed to make contact, it instead continued to travel forward. Due of the momentum, Clyde followed his fist, passing straight through Maeve''s body.


    Hitting the floor, Clyde had a realization.


    ''She turned into shadows?!''


    Sprawled out on the ground, Clyde felt a boot pressed down on his back.


    "You said you would go easy!"


    Clyde figured she would be stronger than him, but this was just embarrassing. Thankfully, she didn''t realize that her arrogance would allow him to strike.


    ''Ironic.''


    The boot drove deeper into his back, following the sound of her voice.


    "Do you expect me to pity you that much?"


    Clyde was glad that his face was turned away from her. Otherwise, she would have seen a devilish grin.


    Unleashing a bolt of energy from his back into her boot, it became impossible for her to dodge. He wouldn''t have done any damage, but that wasn''t what he needed to accomplish. Additionally, he would get to test out how his armor held.


    "Resorting to cheap tricks?"


    Clyde''s eyes widened at the sight in front of his face. Maeve was lying down in front of him, her head resting on her arms.


    "How!?"


    A part of Clyde grieved in agony at the sight of her recurring nightmare of a smile.


    "I''ll admit, you are more impressive than I anticipated. You''ve given me great insight into your capabilities. It''s clear to me now that you recently underwent a second awakening. If you truly want to break through the barrier, you should try expanding your limits."


    As she lifted herself up, tangible shadows dragged Clyde to his feet. Looking at Maeve, he felt as if a roadblock stood in his way. But he had no but to overcome the obstacle.


    Clyde spoke under his breath.


    "Expand my limits."


    It''s not like he had many opportunities to push himself after the blackout. Not that he was complaining. Things were different in this place. Being dragged into a war in the underworld, Clyde would now have many opportunities to push beyond his limits. It was also clear to Clyde that this process would take time. Time that Maeve assured him he had.


    "You mentioned before that time flows differently here. How much time has passed in the human realm since I''ve been gone?"


    Maeve put a hand on her chin.


    "You have been here for about eight or nine hours. I can''t be exactly sure, but no more than several minutes could have passed."


    Clyde pondered for a moment.


    ''Bell... I wonder what''s going on up there? You and Lapis are strong, but I''m worried.''

 Chapter 34: Meanwhile

    Chapter 34 - MeanwhileBell didn''t make it in time. The crowd had mostly dispersed, and Clyde was nowhere to be seen.


    There was only one person remaining on the field, his hair blowing in the wind and a wicked smile plastered across his face. Bell clenched her fist as she gritted her teeth.


    "John!"


    The Saint swiftly turned his head toward her.


    "Do I know you?"


    Only one thing was on Bell''s mind right now.


    "Where is Clyde!?"


    A look of amusement washed over his face. Despite Bell''s ill intent, John remained gleeful.


    "You knew him? Wait... you were there. It seems the culling will start with you."


    Bell knew that she was outclassed, but she was alone. Before John realized what was happening, Lapis appeared behind him, driving a dagger deep into his shoulder.


    Already on the move, Bell summoned a hovering sword of light. It emitted a spectacular golden glow as it flew toward John. For a moment, she believed that the two of them together would be enough. The illusion of safety was shattered, as John hastily ripped the dagger from his shoulder and swung it downward.


    Bell''s weapon was destroyed by the force, shattering into golden flakes. Lapis was still behind John, attempting to strike again.


    The scenery shifted, leaving Bell alone. As world crumbled into nothing, only darkness remained. Bell began to tremble when a new scene began to form¡ªa place she had tried so hard to leave behind. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Walls made of rotting wood, a leaky ceiling, and a dirt floor. Bell could only watch as she saw her younger self. A small, broken girl with nothing left to live for. Her feet were chained, deep claw marks surrounding her ankles. She wore nothing but a ruined shirt, revealing her scarred back. Huskless eyes that reflected nothing.


    Before Bell realized it, she was slowly taking the place of her younger self. The emotions flood back as if a dam had broken¡ªdespair, agony, hatred, and many more. Eventually, all that remained was emptiness.


    ''Why am I alive...''


    As the thought left her mind, only silence remained. With her sanity hanging by a thread, Bell felt a hand touch her shoulder from behind. Lapis issued out a command to her soul.


    "I''m sorry."


    The world shatter again, and this time, Bell was back in reality. In front of her, she saw Lapis being grabbed by the throat, struggling to break free from John.


    Her judgement became clouded, and she radiated a murderous aura. The only thought that consumed her mind was to kill¡ªand to keep killing.


    John hadn''t realized what had happened before it was too late. Bell''s fist hit the side of chest, causing a few ribs to crack. As they were snapping, the other side of John''s body exploded outward, beams of divine light flashing in all directions.


    Bell watched as John dropped Lapis and was sent flying. She didn''t care about the state of her friend, instead she was already following up. It didn''t matter that she was running out of essence or that her own well-being would be affected.


    Like a wild animal, she ran forward, her arms flying back in the wind. Approaching John''s body, she stopped. Raising one arm forward with her palm up, she braced the other hand against it.


    A circle of runes formed, glowing around his body. Then, a second ring expanded into the air, followed by another, continuing until there were ten rings.


    "Holy retribution."


    The clouds parted, and a beam of sacred light crashed down onto the ground. Upon impact, the arena became rubble, except the space behind Bell. In fact, the explosion decimated a significant portion of the city.


    Before the smoke cleared, Bell collapsed, completely unconscious. Lapis was in the small safe zone behind her, barely clinging onto life.


    Underneath the rubble, John began to stir. As he stood up and assessed his surroundings, his gazed shifted back to Bell.


    "You..."


    He was not close to death, but the pain was unforgettable. Before he could finish her off, a hand stopped him.


    "Lucas..."


    Lucas was at the scene wearing his mantle. Instead of looking at John, he was occupied staring at Bell.


    "John, how many times must I repeat myself? I know you don''t listen anyway, yet I persist. This is over. The damaged inflicted has already made the point clear to the people."


    John would have normally let things go, but he was disrespected.


    "Let me kill her, that girl had the audacity to fight me. She even managed to hurt me. I will not let it stand."


    Once again moving toward Bell, he was stopped by Lucas.


    "You fail to grasp the situation. That girl is crucial¡ªmore so than you could ever be to my plans. Fate has already been turned on its head by that man, and if she dies here, there will be no undoing it."


    The pressure than John was familiar with stopped him in his tracks.


    "Do you wish to be reminded?"


    If not her, then John wanted revenge on the other.


    "What about that one!"


    Lucas released his pressure and walked over to Lapis. Lapis was still conscious, crawling his way toward Bell. When Lucas looked at him, a new expression appeared on his face.


    "Oh? How interesting. I''m afraid that he needs to live. Before you whine, just know that you will get to kill him later."


    Lucas waved his hand around, causing a small door to appear.


    "Come, we have a country to save."


    As the two left, Lapis was left alone with Bell. Continuing to crawl, every moment was like an eternity. He had no choice but to move forward. If he couldn''t make it, the worst was yet to come.


    Lapis eventually got far enough to reach her foot. Stretching his arm out, he placed his hand on her, allowing emotions back into her mind.


    Letting out a sigh of relief, he closed his eyes, feeling the darkness to take over him. A final question lingered in his mind.


    ''Where in the hell is Clyde?''

 Chapter 35: A New King

    Chapter 35 - A New King"Explain yourself! What is the meaning of this Lucas!"


    The King''s voice echoed throughout the room. Standing across from him was Lucas, pointing a sword at the King. His voice remained indifferent, as if he wasn''t committing treason.


    "Exactly what it looks like, your time is done. Your age of humanity is done. You have repeatedly ignored my warnings; how many more will pay the price? I already know your answer, but I need witnesses to hear my justification. Step down or die by my hand."


    The row of knights watching the event unfold didn''t move. Even if they wanted to stop Lucas, none of them could. Most were already persuaded by his words. The King knew this, but his pride could never let him submit.


    "I''m afraid that''s not possible."


    Lucas didn''t move an inch as the Kings body fell to the ground. The old man wasn''t even an awakened, he never would have caused trouble to Lucas.


    Walking over to the corpse, Lucas lifted the crown off of the ground. He turned around for all of the guards to see it in his hand. Raising the crown with both of his hands, he shattered it. Sounds of people gasping were his cue to speak.


    "A symbol such as this could never work. The crown was a fantasy, something in the way of my order. Your new King is here; I alone will be the people''s symbol."


    Lucas saw a guard shaking in fear. Walking over to the young man, he wanted to reassure him.


    "Your worries are over, rejoice! I will not lie to you; many will die. Salvation is not cheap; be glad you are on the right side of history." S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If he was feeling cruel, he could''ve mentioned to the man that he would die in a few weeks. Such cruelty was beneath Lucas, though. Cruelty was a tool used for progress.


    "Someone clean this up, prepare a proper burial and ceremony. I will address the nation as well, so let the press know. Since I''ll be busy, do not disturb me until it is time to leave."


    If anyone could imagine the weight in Lucas''s heart, they would be crushed into atoms. Minute after minute, day after day, year after year, he persevered. The goal was in sight, but he never got closer.


    There was no going back; he would not falter now, not that he ever has.


    Stepping out onto the balcony of the castle, Lucas looked over the capital of Cieder. Citizens stood below him going about their business. Children were playing with one another, siblings arguing. That was only one of Lucas''s visions.


    The other was a dark and gloomy world. Buildings were destroyed, dust was falling from the air. The people were gone and only beasts remained.


    Spending most of his life living in the future, Lucas lived a detached life from others. His own family had long abandoned him. The friends he had were not really his friends either. Of course, salvation was not cheap.


    For thirty years, every breath he drew, every step he took, was for the next moment. This was constant. Until his first plan was ruined by that dreadful man.


    ''The deathwalker...''


    Initially he felt amusement, but it was washed away by reality. An unknown variable could ruin everything. So regrettably, Lucas eliminated the threat. Pulling lightly on a string of fate, he caused the hole opening at Maple to occur sooner.


    Changing the order of things does bring uncertainty to the equation, and what an uncertainty Bell was.


    ''To think that girl was capable of that. It never happened originally either. I see why she is meant to be the vessel. What a shame.''


    In different circumstances, he might have even mentored the girl. Then there was the boy Lapis. He was supposed to die during the blackout, while Avelyn and Bell were away from the city. Fate would try to fix itself smoothly, and what an impressive rewriting it was crafting.


    There was a seed of doubt in Lucas''s mind. If the boy''s demise was meant to be at the hands of John, what circumstance led to their encounter? He tried to see more, but the vision became cloudy.


    ''More interference. Could it be...?''


    It might be possible for Clyde to survive in the underworld, but to think he could come back.


    ''No. There must be another explanation.''


    Getting bored of the view, Lucas turned around toward his new home. In this very room he was given his title.


    ''Lucas, the all knowing.''


    He remembered it as if it was yesterday. Lucas also remembered himself reminiscing about the moment. What a strange life to live.


    ***


    In the underworld, much time had passed. Clyde had been living there for almost two months. The life he had before became a ghost of the past.


    In the past two months, Clyde had become notorious, gaining himself the nickname Stormrunner. As a matter of fact, the House of Fracture gained more members. The total was almost around one hundred at this point. The majority of members were beasts, with the Inferi choosing to opt out.


    Quinn was happy as the clan''s lieutenant, but they were overshadowed by the captain. It turns out that the large Minotaur was a general after all.


    Across the landscape, Inferi and beast alike all came to know them as The Shattered Legion. Depending on what side you were on, it was either a blessing or a curse. Their victories were swift and devastating to the King of the underworld. That didn''t mean they were easy victories either.


    With each victory, Clyde always pushed himself. On several occasions he almost perished. Of course, the opposing army never found that out because there was no one left to tell them.


    Clyde was resting on a comfy bed; long ago were the days of the tent. His new room was inside of the fortress, close to the Queen, ready for orders. He had only gotten back from what he assumed was two days ago.


    ''I will never get used to not sleeping.''


    Despite trying to rest, Clyde knew better. Before long the omen was fulfilled, as the Queen opened his door.


    He didn''t open his eyes, but he could tell from her tone something was wrong.


    "We need to speak."

 Chapter 36: Situation

    Chapter 36 - SituationClyde was tense; getting out of bed, he looked at Maeve.


    "What''s going on?" S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She was always composed, so the dread spread across her face was nerve-wracking.


    "I have received word from my spies that my father intends to obtain the accursed blade. We can not allow this to happen under any circumstance."


    Every bit of decor and chilling elegance was gone. Clyde couldn''t believe this; he wondered if it was all an act.


    "If the sword is such a big deal, let''s just get it first. Wait... Did you just say your father?"


    "The demon king is my father. Long story short, we had a minor disagreement. Hundreds of years later, here we are."


    Maeve moved close to Clyde and put her hand on his cheek. This time, her usual commanding voice came out.


    "The fate of that blade will be the deciding factor in this war; he is getting desperate, grasping at straws. The man is willing to destroy the whole realm; if it isn''t clear enough, you won''t make it home."


    By now, Clyde was used to Maeve''s seductive tactics to get what she wants. That didn''t mean she was wrong, though.


    "Do you have a plan?"


    She let go of his face but remained close.


    "He sent his best man out, an Inferi we call Tank. He is ruthless, and his skin is hard to pierce. It''s possible that he has a small group with him or is alone. If you leave now, you should arrive there at the same time."


    Clyde wasn''t happy with the idea of traveling across hell''s landscape, but he had no choice.


    "What about you?"


    "I can''t come, or else he would learn that I''ve found out. It would also force a fight with my father, and I don''t want to fight in unfavorable conditions."


    "That makes sense; how am I supposed to find where the sword is?"


    Maeve shifted her body.


    "In the north, I''m sure you''ve seen it. In the distance is a waterfall of blood flowing upward. Behind the waterfall is a cavern containing the blade. It is heavily fortified and is full of traps, so be extremely careful."


    Of course Clyde had seen it; how could he not? The biggest problem would be the distance and lands between.


    "What about the blade? How is it cursed and dangerous?"


    Maeve gave him a sharp look.


    "It''s sharp enough to cut a mountain; some say that it affects the wielder''s sanity. Additionally, it has a mind of its own."


    "I really don''t like this place."


    Clyde felt that Maeve was hiding something he would find out himself later. Because time was scarce, Clyde set out to leave immediately.


    He had already gathered his things and was currently deciding the best route.


    ''The first major obstacle was the tall mushroom forest. Next up, the lake of fire. Going around it would take some time, but there wasn''t a clear way over it. Finally, there is the mist surrounding the waterfall.''


    One time, the Fractured Legion had a fierce battle in the mushroom forest. The most dangerous part was the poisonous gases. Local beasts, for the most part, were tame, living independently in the ecosystem.


    Surrounding the land around the lake of fire, the land was barren, with tusk worms plaguing it. The final part of the journey would be the worst.


    From what Clyde was told, it was easy to get lost inside of the mist. Even worse, you can lose yourself. Maeve wouldn''t have sent Clyde if she didn''t think he could handle it.


    Unaware of the world around him, Clyde nearly ran into Quinn, who was waiting for him outside of the fortress. The familiar boy was just as sheepish as he always was. However, there was a hint of worry across his face.


    "Boss! Are you really leaving? We have so much momentum, and the war is slowly tilting in our favor."


    Clyde couldn''t believe the information had already leaked out that he was going somewhere. He would need to remember to be cautious of what was spoken.


    "I''m not sure how long I''ll be gone, but you and everyone else will be fine. I''ve been sent on an important mission, the queen''s orders. If you want to take it up with her, then be my guest."


    Quinn obviously wouldn''t be able to reject an order from the Queen, so he gave Clyde a stern look.


    "Be safe. You have people depending on you now."


    The boy walked away, leaving Clyde by himself. Clyde had recently gotten himself a new satchel, something he missed dearly. He decided to bring some foul liquids, as he was sure the place he was going didn''t have anything drinkable. For food, he opted to eat whatever monster he might find. Hell was full of beasts.


    Deciding not to exit through the front of camp, Clyde went behind the fortress to leave. It saves time from having to loop back around, in addition to avoiding the Minotaur. They had become good friends over the past few months, but Clyde knew that he would insist on joining him.


    In front of Clyde now was the other side of the clearing that he first came here from. In the distance, the sight of a sea of towering mushrooms could be found. Taking a step forward, the journey had begun.


    ***


    Nearly an hour had passed. By now, Clyde was almost halfway across the field. If it wasn''t for his time spent here, he would have been obliterated by several geysers.


    In front of Clyde was a large ravine. On his way around it, he heard a familiar, dreadful noise.


    ''A draven!?''


    His actions became frozen, knowing what would happen if he notified the beast. The wind blew ferociously as it got close to Clyde. Unlike before, the draven landed directly in front of Clyde, in all of its terror.


    Clyde''s heart was beating fast; this was a creature even the large Minotaur didn''t want to face. Its swirling, gaping mouth and snout were aimed at Clyde. For a moment, he believed he was found out.


    His fear was immediately alleviated as the draven started to go down into the ravine.


    ''Its nests?''


    A problem was arising, as the draven''s face was peering into the abyss below, Clyde felt something on his body. After a few months in Hell, he had attained a decent resistance to heat. But at this moment, Clyde felt a drop of sweat about to leave his chin.


    It was too late.


    Plop.


    ''Did it hear¡ª''


    The thought was interrupted by a tenacious roar.

 Chapter 37: Draven

    Chapter 37 - DravenThe Draven''s wings were outstretched as its neck turned towards Clyde. Its mouth was so large that it could swallow him whole. This was the Draven''s natural choice of action.


    Teeth started swirling like a whirlpool, sucking in air, causing Clyde to struggle. Every journey he had made in the underworld was dancing with death. Why would this be any different?


    ''Humans, beasts, it''s all the same. To a degree, we are driven by fear. This apex only realizes that something is here. In its defense, there isn''t supposed to be another apex in its domain.''


    While being pulled in, Clyde slammed both of his hands together, creating a thunderous crack. The noise was so loud that even Clyde''s ears were in pain. Luckily, the Draven was looking worse. Immediately, it leapt back using the force of its wings.


    A fight could be decided by a single moment. Clyde was waiting for the result.


    ''Flight or fight.''


    The Draven was faced in Clyde''s direction, but now its senses have been messed with, unclear about the next move. Knowing this, Clyde remained still as it made a step toward him.


    One step, two steps, three...


    In the next step, it would touch Clyde. The revolting snout above its mouth was asking to be hit. But Clyde would let the attack be a surprise.


    Upon the snout''s contact with Clyde, the neck flung backward. Sparks of energy had already flown everywhere. Clyde''s forehead was a little red, but by now, his skin had grown tough.


    On the ground, the Draven was flailing all over the place, struggling to breathe because its nose was welded shut. Clyde imagined that it rarely breathed through its mouth.


    He chose to stay back for now, as an out-of-control monster is unpredictable. In the best-case scenario, it would forget about him.


    Continuing to flail, it got up on its back legs, spinning in all directions. Since it wasn''t moving as peacefully as before, Clyde had no choice but to get out of the way.


    Taking a back step, Clyde narrowly dodged one of the wings coming at him. However, the movement notified the Draven of his location once again.


    ''Not good!''


    Flying into the air, the Draven looked down in Clyde''s direction and unleashed a powerful sound wave. The pressure of the sound cracked the ground around Clyde. Bringing an arm back, Clyde aimed a lightning bolt straight for its mouth.


    Bringing his arm forward, the friction and electricity blasted outward, hitting the creature in its throat. Clyde''s arm started to spasm, but the damage was not the same as it had been. It was possible that Clyde could throw at least six more before an arm would be out of commission.


    Noticeably, his armor held, which was good news. After briefly examining himself, Clyde saw the Draven falling to the ground. This would be one of his only chances, so he took it.


    Racing toward the falling beast, he met with it as it hit the ground. For a split second, Clyde hesitated where to strike while it was vulnerable. Then he thought to himself.


    ''The brain. If this thing had a brain, where would it be? Of course!''


    Clyde plunged his arms deep into the nostrils of the Draven. Once he was in as far as he could reach, he pulled upward with all of his might and released. Two bolts of energy exited through the other side of the head, making the Draven fall limp.


    Pulling his arms out, Clyde couldn''t help but notice the sludge covering his arm.


    ''Great!''


    At least his worries would be over. Giving the dead monster one last kick, Clyde was ready to finish his journey to the mushroom forest.


    Once around the ravine, he looked back just to make sure before continuing. About twenty steps later, he heard a similar cry. This time, however, there were multiple.


    Looking back, Clyde witnessed five Dravens climb their way out of the ravine. They ranged in different sizes, but the most threatening was the elder.


    ''Hell no.''


    He was not even going to bother fighting all of them. So Clyde did what he thought was best: run. Not wanting to exhaust himself already, Clyde did not speed up his mental capacity. The world became a blur as he traveled across the wasteland. There was still an issue concerning Clyde. He could hear several Draven keeping up with him, possibly catching up.


    ''Not good!''


    In the next moment, he felt an intense amount of heat build up in his body. That was when he realized he just ran through one of the geysers. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''Thank God for this armor.''


    Clyde could hear them getting closer and closer, encouraging him to move faster. That was when he made a mistake. He wasn''t sure exactly what happened, but all he knew was that he tripped. At the speed Clyde was going, it was likely that he could get impaled by a wrong landing.


    Luckily, he only experienced the occasional sharp pain as he hit the ground. The world around him was spinning so fast in a blur, Clyde felt that he might puke. The only thing stopping that from happening was that the idea felt so awful to him.


    With a loud thud, Clyde hit something soft. Following his crash, he began to hear some cracking noises. Then a loud thud rang out, as Clyde now saw a mushroom stem hit the ground.


    ''I''ve made it.''


    Clyde was upside down, but he could still see in the distance the group of Dravens. Unexpectedly, they turned around and flew in the other direction.


    ''Step one is officially complete.''


    Although step one was extremely painful, he was expecting to have a better time in the mushroom forest. It would be the calm before the storm, assuming nothing outrageous happened, that is.


    Readjusting himself upward, Clyde''s vision was fairly poor. A layer of green pollen was thick and covered the entire forest. If Clyde couldn''t see the reverse-flowing waterfall, it would be extremely easy to get lost in this place.


    Covering his surroundings, Clyde started step two.

 Chapter 38: The Princess and The Toad

    Chapter 38 - The Princess and The ToadBefore Clyde realized what was happening, he fell over in his sleep. A second later, he sprang up, ready to continue. All this time, Clyde had still not gotten use to that effect. Technically, one could argue that his mind was constantly awake.


    The mushroom forest was vast and could take up to a week''s worth of travel. The green pollen was beginning to stick to Clyde''s armor, thanks to the Draven''s snot covering it. It was also thicker than usual, causing him to inhale much of it.


    All around him, Clyde heard familiar noises he would hear in the human realm. Chirps, crunching, and... a ribbit?


    ''A frog?''


    Turning around, an eyeball the size of Clyde''s head was staring at him. Taking a step back, there was a massive toad with a mushroom cap on its head.


    In the next second, its tongue began to stretch out and grab Clyde. Before it wrapped around him, he slowed down his perception. The tongue was too fast, and there would be no chance to escape at this distance.


    As the tongue constrained Clyde, he tried to bury his fingers into it. However, the tongue was too slimy, and his hand brushed off it. In a final attempt, Clyde emitted a strong pulse, singing the tongue.


    Even then, the tongue finished its job and brought Clyde into the toad''s mouth. He struggled immensely, but everything was so slimy. If he was back in the human realm, Clyde could have used lightning from the sky. The only option left was to harness his body as a conduit.


    An arc formed between all of his limbs, connecting to the toad. Clyde decided it would be best to continue releasing the energy. After a few seconds, the toad''s mouth opened, and it spat Clyde out. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Rolling over, Clyde felt disgusted. His entire body now had that toad''s saliva on it.


    ''This was supposed to be the relaxing part!''


    Getting up, he noticed that the toad was staring at him blankly. Clyde was backing away, but the toad started to follow him. Every time he looked back, it stopped in its tracks.


    Clyde had an idea. He started to circle the toad; the beast followed his every move. Disregarding all caution, he moved closer. Now they were barely apart from one another. Placing a hand on the toad, it closed its eyes and let out a humming noise.


    ''I see, that''s how it is.''


    Clyde jumped on top of the toad, and it showed no signs of disobedience. The toad was submitting after being defeated. Softly touching its head, the toad leapt, creating great distance.


    ''Forget a week''s worth of travel; I can get there faster!''


    Clyde covered his mouth for a moment, thinking deeply.


    "Your name shall be Jericho."


    Jericho didn''t react to that information; its thoughts were probably filled with tasty bat flies.


    Now that Clyde had miraculously secured a form of travel, the mushroom forest became a breeze. This was also good news because he wouldn''t need to waste essence running. It also became apparent that the toad was a dominant existence. Many beasts fled at the sight of it, though a few didn''t react either way. Those were likely not its typical meal. Of course, Jericho had already snatched several smaller insects on the journey.


    Jericho could be considered flying; every leap Clyde could see over the giant mushrooms.


    ***


    Three ''days'' passed until Clyde made it to the lake of fire. Something was seriously wrong, though. For a lake of fire, the only thing here was an open, dried hole.


    ''How is this possible?''


    There were two choices on Clyde''s mind. One, travel across the lake. Or two, continue with the original plan and travel around it.


    ''Do tides exist in Hell?''


    It also seemed that Jericho was reluctant to travel across the open lake, reinforcing Clyde''s reluctance. The moment Clyde jumped off of the toad, it ran!


    "Jericho! Come on!"


    Left alone, the empty lake beckoned Clyde. The lure was unimaginable and irresistible. Whispers came into his mind, warping his principles of caution.


    ''It would be faster anyway.''


    As his foot hit the ground, it sank into the ground slightly. Steam came from around the traces of his boot. Further and further, a trail of his steps in his wake.


    In front of Clyde, a hill began to form with an opening. The sight did not confuse him whatsoever, as he blankly stared into it. For some reason, his senses were screaming from within that he was in danger. The feeling soon suppressed itself.


    Darkness swallowed him in the newly formed cave.


    ''What the... where am I?''


    Clyde felt as if he was inside of an oven. The temperature rose dramatically from what it was a second ago.


    Everywhere he turned was dark, with no sign of a wall, floor, or ceiling. In the distance, a single dim light could be seen. Since it was the only thing in sight, Clyde naturally went toward it. The path was endless, and progress was slow.


    Things only got weirder from there. The feeling of solid ground beneath Clyde was gone. He felt as if he was falling in a bottomless pit, the light nowhere to be seen. Next, Clyde became short of breath, causing him to hyperventilate.


    ''Wait a minute.''


    His mind started to clear as a figure appeared before him. It was Bell.


    "Get up! You have to get up!"


    ''Am I hallucinating?''


    Clyde''s vision swirled along with the bleak world he was a part of. He felt sick and exhausted. Deep within his stomach, he knew what was about to happen. As vomit exited his body, his surroundings were clear. He was still in the mushroom forest.


    The green pollen had dissipated.


    ''No... are you serious? How long was I gone? Was any of that real?''


    Feeling grim about his progress, Clyde felt something wiggle in his hands. When he opened it, a small brown toad jumped away. Rolling his eyes, Clyde felt the exhaustion of sleep and fell over. Getting back up, he realized from his memories, during the three days of travel he didn''t sleep. By that logic, he was only out of commission for a day.


    ''I would say this place can go to hell...''


    He didn''t know how deep he was into the forest, but he could see the Reverse Falls landmark. The only thing Clyde could do now was make up for lost time.

 Chapter 39: Battle Within

    Chapter 39 - Battle WithinA feral beast was dragging itself through the mushroom forest. It was having an argument with itself, unaware of any onlookers. The eyes were dark, and its hair was messy.


    "-were so right! Send me out to do your bidding! Whose idea was it to send the guy who just got here? Oh, wait! That''s right, it was that stuck-up ancient demoness brat! I think I might strangle her later...-"


    Clyde indeed felt like a feral beast. He was unsure of how long he had been in the forest. He was also just as equally unsure if he had been in another episode. The sight of his destination remained unchanged.


    "-Am I crazy?"


    It was unclear what was wrong with Clyde. The mushroom forest might have been the catalyst, but there were many underlying issues. Hopelessness from his inability to help his friends. There was no telling what they were going through right now. Then he was dragged into a civil war between a father and daughter! One that had been raging for hundreds of years.


    Order after order, siege after siege, hell was proving worthy of its name. In the early days, Clyde often saw the light at the end of the tunnel, but now there was no end in sight.


    If he really were to encounter the infamous Inferi Tank, his current mental state would be problematic. Alternatively, he might have been here so long that the sword was already taken. Clyde came to a stop, looking toward the sky.


    "Alright, I''m done. I don''t care if every ounce of my essence is drained."


    A trail of lightning followed Clyde as he ran. During the blur, he noticed something. Slowing down his perception, Clyde witnessed the mushroom stems moving.


    "That''s it!"


    The forest had been rearranging itself, different from the twisted woods. Whenever Clyde used his senses early on, it never seemed odd. The twisted woods would move at random times, regardless of Clyde''s existence. Here, the mushrooms would deliberately move around, keeping him in the center of the forest. However, he was too fast now.


    Limiting his perception, Clyde pushed further into his speed, more than ever before. The rush was exhilarating. Strangely, his heart seemed to be beating slower. He was running in a straight line, which caused him to destroy several mushroom trees in his path.


    In one minute, Clyde escaped. Unfortunately, he had not slowed down in time before he reached the lake of fire. Unlike his dream, it was very much on fire.


    ''Oh dear... it''s just fire anyway...''


    Like a madman, Clyde committed to running straight across. He was knee-deep in flames, and if it wasn''t for his armor, his skin would have melted. The pain was excruciating, but at the speed he was moving, the initial shock didn''t last. Behind Clyde was a mountain of flames flying backward from his force.


    It was impossible to know how far he had made it, but Clyde knew one thing.


    ''If my essence runs out before I get across, I''m dead.''


    He knew that his limit was approaching. Passing out and waking back up wouldn''t replenish his essence. That was something that took a raw amount of time.


    Just before he fell over, he reached the other side. An impressive feat that he would tell Bell and the others about. Hitting the ground, Clyde passed out. Immediately getting back up, a new problem was created. With little to no energy, he wouldn''t be able to defend himself. But he was so close now, and going back wasn''t possible.


    Nearby he heard running water, or in this case, blood. Following its stream, he could make it to the accursed sword. Hope was finally restored in Clyde''s mind. It would take a little longer for his mental state to recover.


    "See! I told you we would make it."


    Clyde continued to ramble on to nobody for several minutes. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Out of every obstacle, he was told that he should be cautious of the mist. The green pollen wasn''t unnavigable, but the mist would be if he ever left the river. So he stuck with it.


    As he was walking, Clyde started to wonder.


    ''How exactly is there mist in the first place?''


    It was possible a creature might be producing it. If that was the case, he should be fine. What was more worrying were the things that lived here. Clyde thought back to his brief encounter with the headless demon. Maeve explained to Clyde that the region of hell he was in was a safer one. This made sense as a civilization was allowed to exist. Although the further one traveled, the worse things were.


    Strangely, nothing happened. Clyde successfully made it to his objective with no obstacles. Looking at the waterfall of blood, he stepped into the pond. Wading through blood, he was only a foot away from the cave.


    Getting drenched in blood, Clyde went through the waterfall. He thought that he got here before the king''s people, but a dead body was slumped over at the cave''s entrance.


    ''Well then.''


    Clyde doubted that he was alone. The tunnel had lanterns with blue flames lighting the walls. Walking down the tunnel, spots were full of arrows, in addition to holes in the ground. Someone had set off a lot of traps.


    ''It seems that ''Tank'' brute-forced this place.''


    Leisurely strolling through many set-off traps, Clyde found an iron door that was broken in half. Beyond that was an opening with a pedestal in the center. Tank was nowhere to be found, and the only thing in this room was a crummy broken sword.


    ''Is this the accursed sword... no, it''s useless.''


    Perhaps Tank thought the same thing and left. If that was the case, then at least the king''s army didn''t get an advantage. However, in Clyde''s heart, he had come too far.


    The blade of the sword had crumbled, leaving only a black, rusted hilt. Ignoring the warnings of Maeve, Clyde reached for the sword and picked it up.


    The cave shook, causing stalactites to fall. That was when Clyde heard his own voice.


    "Are you stupid or just ignorant?"


    A complete copy of him was forming in front of him. Seeing himself, he noticed he looked different than he was used to; his hair had become more blonde, regrettably.


    The imposter raised an identical broken blade, that was started to reform itself. Then the copy smiled.


    "Come!"


    That was when Clyde noticed his own blade was gone.

 Chapter 40: Overlay

    Chapter 40 - OverlayClyde put his hand forward, making the reflection stop.


    "Can you comprehend who you are pretending to be? What is the deciding factor between you and me? A broken and struggling killer. If you really are wanting to claim my authenticity, then you surely know where I am going with this."


    His false self''s demeanor changed. The voice sounded identical.


    "I am everything you could be and more, all of your current potential. You wanted to wield the sword, proving yourself a fool. If you have no mastery over yourself, then you would never have control over a weapon. Also... don''t worry! After I take your place, I''ll crawl out of here myself and kill your friends."


    Clyde erupted into laughter when he heard this.


    "We are both crazy then. Alright, carry on."


    His counterpart ran at him, no electricity in sight. It was as Clyde thought. The mimic was of his current self; this trial would be won off of raw combat. That said, he himself was without a weapon. Clyde didn''t mind, as he had grown rusty with a weapon.


    The fact became more apparent when his foe missed his swing. Clyde predicted this and didn''t move since the start of the battle. That''s when Clyde noticed the crack of weakness. Copycat didn''t drop the weapon despite its current hindrance.


    In another second, the sword was coming at him from above. Instead of sidestepping, Clyde backs away to eliminate a quick follow-up. The actions were simultaneous, allowing the tip of the blade to be in front of Clyde''s feet.


    Reacting instantly, Clyde raised his foot only to slam it on the blade. It was amusing watching him scream. A new fear was added to Clyde''s list, as no one but him should see this sight. With his foot still on the blade, Clyde landed a hook to the face. The reflection didn''t fall down or let go of the blade, likely because Clyde was still standing on it.


    By now it was obvious the true enemy was the sword. There wasn''t truly a reflection anyway. Clyde stepped off the sword to continue hitting his doppelg?nger. Hopefully, he himself wasn''t this easy to defeat.


    "You really are a cheap copy."


    The sword seemed to be tired of the beating because his replication disappeared. Now the sword was on the floor as Clyde had found it earlier. Would it be stolen from him yet again?


    Picking it up, the room remained calm. The whispers followed. However, Clyde didn''t notice them because he had been hearing whispers for a while now.


    In his hand, the blade transformed into everything Clyde wanted in a sword. It was light, but its presence was heavy. There were notches every few centimeters on it. He playfully swung the sword in front of him. Nothing unexpected happened, so Clyde was confused about the alleged curse. Then he struck downward with ferocity. The wall ahead of Clyde exploded.


    ''Oh... so that''s how it is. Remarkable. I''ll use it for now, but it is best in Maeve''s hands. She will likely dispose of it. What a shame that is.''


    It was time to embark.


    On his way back to Maeve''s fortress, the journey would be similar. The biggest difference would be that he would walk around the lake of fire. Additionally, by the time he makes it to the mushroom forest, he should be able to run through it. Unless it contained high pollination, of course.


    The only thing Clyde dealt with on his three-week journey back was his continuous mental decline. Again, whether most of it was from carrying the sword or not was undetermined.


    Upon seeing the fortress, Clyde let out a sigh and fell to his knees.


    "So close..."


    The entire journey had taken roughly two months. Meaning that Clyde had now been in hell for four months. He couldn''t remember his last conversation with someone other than himself. Out of everything, he was looking forward to what he would say to that conniving woman.


    After a short hour, Clyde approached the backside of the fortress. He didn''t feel like speaking to Minotaur or facing minor interruptions. Knowing that any little thing might set him off, he wanted to complete his mission.


    Turning the corner, a guard almost started to attack him before they realized who it was.


    "Clyde?"


    Clyde ignored the suit of armor as he saw it. For all he knew, this was a delusion. The other guards didn''t stop him either, as they were aware he had a mission from the Queen. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Barging into the main hall, the darkness in the room disappeared. Then the familiar sound of a frozen heart spoke.


    "Clyde, you made it back! Do you bring good news?"


    Maeve was on her throne with her legs crossed. Clyde didn''t pay attention to a word she said. Instead, after she got done speaking, he grabbed the sword from his back and threw it at her. The goal wasn''t to hit her or anything, but the message was clear.


    After a clanking sound, Maeve''s jaw dropped a bit.


    "Is that what I think it is?"


    Clyde still hadn''t responded, but he didn''t need to. Maeve got off of the throne and picked it up. Holding it up to the ceiling, it crumbled in her hands.


    "Well done, now¡ª"


    He cut her off.


    "Where do I even begin! First of all¡ª"


    His rant lasted for half an hour; by the end of it, he was out of breath. As much as he was breathing, it looked like he suffered from a heart attack.


    Maeve''s face remained motionless as she contemplated everything he said. A part of her felt pity for the human. She did fail to recognize the time spent would be considered long. After all, the current war going on was only two hundred years and going. What was two months? Regardless, she came to him.


    To anyone, and especially to her, Clyde''s mental state was bad. She had an idea.


    Clyde raised an arm as she got close to him. But he did not resist when she embraced him. Soon the shadows covered them, leaving Clyde voided of light.


    "What are you doing?"


    His mind felt peaceful in a soft bliss. Maeve didn''t answer him, not that he cared anymore. What he was feeling was his mind healing.


    Eventually the shadows left, leaving Clyde and Maeve alone. When she let go of him, he stared back blankly.


    "How do you feel now?"


    Clyde didn''t know how to answer that.


    "The only thing I can come up with is... better."


    "You did well, Clyde. I understand I have been working you like a mule. With such a hard worker, it''s difficult not to utilize your talents. We''ve made rapid progress since your arrival. If you need a pillar to lean on, then find me."


    "I definitely will."


    Clyde started to take the staircase to his room but was stopped.


    "One more thing..."


    He turned his head and saw the unmoved face of Maeve before she continued.


    "Your room has been under renovation. If it doesn''t bother you, then you can rest in my room."


    ''What the fuck.''


    Clyde''s face went flush, making the Queen chuckle.


    Going up the stairs, Clyde noticed his room was not undergoing renovation.


    ''Well... I suppose I should let bygones be bygones.''

 Chapter 41: Retribution

    Chapter 41 - RetributionThe one year anniversary was arriving of Clyde''s arrival. The progress in the war was so significant that the alleged final battle was occurring. Maeve was currently fighting her father on the other side of the battlefield. Meanwhile, Clyde was currently struggling against Tank.


    Their fight was going nowhere, each blow was exchanged ferociously. The current problem was that Clyde didn''t do much damage to Tank. On the other hand, Tank could barely land a blow on Clyde. They both realized that between the two of them, the victor didn''t matter. Most of the army had stopped fighting with their hearts as they focused on the outcome of their leaders.


    All things considered, this fight was out of spite. But Clyde had another reason. He could feel it, the breakthrough he had been seeking.


    Clyde saw an opening and took it. Slamming his fist into Tank, something different happened. Usually Tank would reel back a little bit, but Clyde felt pain in his fist. Tanks face was also unmoving. Whenever Clyde retracted his hand, Tank had an incredibly wide grin.


    "You felt it, didn''t you? The gap between us has drastically widened."


    Clyde spat at the ground.


    "What do you mean?!"


    Tank stepped forward toward Clyde, not guarding himself at all. Clyde decided to attack him, but his fist bounced off. Unchanged, Tank grabbed Clyde by his head.


    "I''ve awakened again."


    Clyde''s eyes widened for a moment before being slammed into the ground. This was not supposed to happen.


    ''If tank attained the third stage, then even if Maeve wins...''


    Before receiving another blow, both of them were sent flying. A massive shockwave of darkness, from Maeve''s clash most likely. The currently problem was that Tank didn''t let go.


    Eventually they hit a hard surface. There was no time to recover, his body was pulled out and slammed into a wall.


    ''No...''


    He was slammed again, this time the air was knocked out of him.


    ''No...!''


    When he was picked back up, something changed. His entire body was circulating electricity. From head to toe, sparks were sent flying. Naturally, Tank''s hand was singed, causing him to jump back.


    ''Authority... I see it now.''


    From Clyde''s perspective, everything had changed. Movement was clear and absolute. The enemy before him was nothing anymore.


    Striking at his neck, Tank had no time to react. He didn''t just use his fist though. His entire arm had turned into a sword of energy as it sliced through Tank.


    On the ground now, Tank coughed up blood.


    "Back to square one."


    Tank raised an arm up stopping the next blow.


    "You are impressive, Stormrunner. Finally letting me see what your about."


    Tanks body changed to the same material as the ground, no... It was more than that. He had assimilated completely. Striking at him was no different than trying to destroy all of Hell.


    Too bad he was outmatched. Clyde saw everything after all, nothing escaped his grasp.


    Clyde obliterated the idea of Tank''s authority. He realized that the two of them were newly third level awakened. An authority needed to be absolute, if a person didn''t uphold it, then it would shatter. Unfortunately, Tank couldn''t understand the concept as he didn''t have countless sparring matches with a third level himself.


    Clyde no longer held himself back, doing so would only lessen his authority. Strike after strike, an unending wave of attacks. Thunderous cracks were sounding off simultaneously. Across the battlefield, every stopped in their tracks, including the Queen and King.


    Above a storm cloud appeared, something that wasn''t possible. Lightning tore through the battlefield, killing tens of thousands of soldiers.


    Maeve couldn''t help but smile, her star pupil managed to pull it off. All she needed to do was win her own fight. Luckily, her father was a pushover as he ever was. He might have created the darkness, but she was born in it.


    Taking his suprise from the storm, she appeared behind him and slit his throat. Maeve saw that he was about to speak, and so she shoved a knife down his mouth.


    "Goodbye bastard."


    Looking across the battle, only her side remained. It was over.


    The clouds disappeared as fast as they appeared. Right now, Clyde was standing over a pile of ash. Each second felt like an eternity, and he couldn''t turn it off. His own heartbeat was pumping faster than it ever had. A voice was calling out to him, but Clyde was in a trance like state. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That''s when the shadows overtook his mind and calmed him down. Something Clyde was used to and longed for by now.


    When they disappeared, Maeve was in front of Clyde. She came to him and hugged him.


    "It''s over."


    Clyde didn''t say anything, a realization appearing in his mind.


    ''I can go home now. But...''


    Letting go she looked into his eyes.


    "Do you still wish to leave here. If you stay, you''ll be by my side forever. I also imagine you have much more going for you here than up there. Additionally¡ª"


    Clyde cut her off.


    "I must go."


    Her facial expression became drained.


    "So that''s how it is..."


    She turned away from him, only her back was in his sight.


    "Now that you have awakened, you can go back on your own. All you need to do is imagine it in your heart. Will yourself back to another reality. But I must tell you now... if you ever return here. I might just kill you."


    Clyde didn''t know what to say. And before he could think of something, she was gone. A part of himself was lost, strengthing his resolve. Her instructions weren''t that clear, which made Clyde believe it was a simple matter.


    He close his eyes and began the process. His soul started to crack and build pressure. Pain and swelling took over his body. All of his essence was draining until there was nothing left.


    ''Did it work?''


    Opening his eyes, Clyde was in a small crater. At first he thought that he arrived in a random location, but in the distance he saw the familiar architecture of Maple. Something had happened here.


    In the moment, his body felt weak and powerless. That wasn''t Clyde''s concern. After all of his trial and tribulations, it was only the beginning. He had reached the third level of awakening, but he was sure it would be enough. Only a few days had passed in the human realm. With no other plan to go with, Clyde began the journey to Avalor.