4.23.537

Today was it.

I impatiently brushed my hair, styling it so that it laid neatly to one side. I sprayed on a dash of cologne and took down another pain pill, forbidding that my headaches return.

I looked up and studied myself in the mirror. I creased down the edges of my blazer, everything adjusted neatly.

"Pathetic."

I turned around to see Yonic watching me in the entrance. I paused, my expression indifferent. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up, as if a cold hand had came over me and grabbed my collar. I squinted my eyes in confusion, "What did you say to me?"

"I said, could you take any longer." He repeated calmly.

I blinked my eyes, a bit of relief swept over.

I could've swore..

No...stop thinking..

I turned back to the mirror, "Don't you have any manners?" I scoffed.

"Didn't mean to intrude," He implied, "Just wanted to remind you that time is of the essence, and these banquets do have schedules."

"Isn't it a little too early for sarcasm?" I sighed, "We have time."

I turned back to the mirror, and saw Yonic lean quietly against my wall arms crossed. He glared towards my balcony, his expression stern and indicating that he was upset.

"What's wrong?" I asked.

"Nothing."

"You sure?"

"Positive."

"Okay." I ended.

I knew he was lying to me, but didn't know whether to press on.

"Well, you look alright at least" He added, "Can barely tell you slept all day."

"I guess."

"Are you nervous?"

"That hardly matters."

"It will eventually."

"Only thing they'll notice is my name Anything else will be ignored."

"Touche," He ended, standing next to me to observe himself in my mirror.

He had his hair tied back into a bun, sleek and professional. His tuxedo was slim fitted and white, except for his tie and trousers.
Gold bracelets and rings covered his hands and wrists, making a bold appearance. I felt a hint of envy, but it quickly died away.

"Once you're done we can go downstairs." He remarked

"I'm ready." I stated, turning towards the door with steadfast composure. Yonic followed closely behind as we walked downstairs into the White Room.

Isabelle, Tina and Leeana were sitting, doing some final preparations to their hair. Yonic greeted them as our eyes inevitably studied their apparel.

Isabelle had on a beautiful bodycon dress, that hugged her curves and legs. Her teal dyed hair curled over her shoulders, revealing her bold lips and eyes.
Leean modeled a black and silver evening gown, which made her body glow. Tina, who was like an isolated rose in the woods, wore a revealing red cocktail garment. It's first time I've seen them so heavily prepared.

Isabelled turned to me, and sparked with excitement. "Kiyo you look so nice!" She exclaimed.

"Oh," I shied away, not expected her to break out in praise so suddenly, "Thank you."

"He does look handsome." Tina added, bringing her hand up to her cheek. Leean nodded her head in approval.

For the first time ever, I felt bashful given the attention of my family.

Before a minute more could pass, Julian and Roy came downstairs, both wearing black and white. Roy had his hair slicked back to a comb-over, Julian had his brushed to one side. Their faces were over joyed and over confident. They didn't hesitate to boast about their looks once they compared us.

Despite the anxiety, everyone was excited.

Don't go.

Roland and Soren were the last to arrive. Both radiated elegance, mirroring each other's modish expression. Soren wore a similar tux to Julian, simple and clean.
Roland on the other hand wore a more royal and power worthy suit, traditional for dignitaries. It was overall custom made, and somewhat futuristic. It radiated authority and malice. His platinum grey hair, and eyes seemed to pop out in contrast of the suit.

"Ladies, and gentlemen," He greeted, "I hope you're all prepared."

Everyone exhaled with anticipation, confirming their readiness. He thanked us for successfully getting ready on time, and then asked that we pay attention. He briefly went over some rules for the night, to ensure we didn't embarrass ourselves in front of the other hierarchies. After giving Roy a special warning, he prepared us to leave for the banquet.

We started for the front door.

Don't.

Stay.

The bulter held the door open as he monitored us out into the night.

One by one..

They stepped out of the mansion...

Smiles...

Giggles..

Don't go out there..

With the responsibilities of the house given to the keeper, they were all ready to leave..

To leave the house..

At night...

"Its too dangerous."

"It's too dangerous Kaur."

"You're better off alone."

I stepped forward.

DON'T.

"Dad." I wailed.

Everyone was already outside. Roland was in the lead.

Stay home.

Rest.

Eat.

Hunger.

Sleep.

"Dad!" I called louder.

He paused this time and turned around to see me standing in the threshold of the door. My hands were shaking, and my eyes watered. I didn't want to look pathetically afraid. I tried to straighten my face, but it was as soft as a child.

"Kiyo?" He answered. He looked at me, worried. He stepped forward, with his hand out reached.

"I..I ca-..." I choked.

Say you're tired.

"Dad, I'm tired."

"Kiyo. You need to pull through and come with us. This isn't something up for debate." He whispered apologetically.

He's trying to hurt you.

"No."

"No?" He replied.

It's too dark.

"I mean.." I stuttered, my head aching.

"Come." Roland whispered, placing his hand on my cheek. He brought his forehead down to mine and touched, looking me directly in the eyes, "I have you. I won't let anything happen to you."

His hands were soft, smoothing my entire face. His hair draped over me, wrapping me in a secure nest of warmth and comfort. My muscles relaxed and my headache began to cease. I exhaled, and felt every thought and pain escape my body.

Suddenly, I've lost all superstition.

My father's hands had that effect. His eyes. His hair. His encouragement.

He was my guardian angel. I had to trust him.

Once he was sure I was calm he took my hands, and escorted me to the drive.
Roy and I hopped in the car with Julian, while the girls tagged with Roland. Soren and Yonic decided to hitch with Cale, leaving each of us with some space. After a few moments we pulled out onto the drive, and started heading downhill towards the city.

Edon was about thirty minutes away, despite the skyway. I gazed out the window, killing time staring at the bystanders passing by.

Authorities lurked the streets as if on a man hunt, not leaving a space untouched. Their flashy cars blocked roads and alleys, preventing others from passing onto the main road. Their search lights flashed every nearby vehicle, checking the pedestrians inside.

"What's going on?" I asked.

"They're on alert tonight." Julian informed.

"What for?"

"Terrorists."

"What do you mean? Tara has no enemy."

Julian didn't respond.

With all the security needed to protect an already fortified castle, I began to think it was best not to go at all. Chances of attack has increased, and with the man on TV still vivid my mind, I was worried. I gulped down my anxiety, and looked back out the window.

People were trying to get a glimpse of the hierarchies driving by. Their arms were raised, seeking for recognition.
The authorities showed no remorse on their simple curiosity. Man or woman, each were equally beaten for not following directions. Even onlookers were casted down like dogs, bruised and thrown against walls by authorities. In the values of Terra, It was disrespectful for a lower class citizen to call or look upon a hierarchy.

It was sad, but where's justice in a dying world.

When the crowd disappeared and the castle came into view, the sun casted an ocean of red above us. Helicopters flew over, their search lights skimming the yards and premises. Guards with overly large dobermans strolled around every corner, every tree, and every road. Large Blinkships floated above, hidden behind the clouds of the city except for the faint glimpses of their light. They were created for slow and destructive purposes. The rings underneath held in the light, which when needed could unleashed a power strong enough to consume miles of land and city collectively.

For them to be brought into the hierachy districts of Terra, sent chills down my spine.

A guard at the end of the bridge held up his hand, gesturing for Julian to stop. He came to Rolands car first and checked the ID of the passengers. He flashed his light around, then checked under the bumper and in between the tires.
The guard waved them on and the gestured his hand towards us. Julian drove up next to him and lowered his window. The guard flashed his light in our faces

"I need to see your ID." He said sternly. Julian quickly went into his wallet and pulled out a white card, handing it to him. The man examined it closely, and then looked at Roy and I.

"You two under eighteen?"

"Yes sir." Me and roy answered simultaneously.

"Passes?"

Roy pulled out a blue card from his blazer, grabbing mine as well. He handed it to the man who then scanned the bar-code on the back. I felt a little tense that the cards wouldn't scan. I began to play with my hands and look around nervously. I felt a knot begin to welt up in my throat and I felt as if I was over heating. The man looked from the papers and up at me. Hr studied my face then frowned suspiciously, "Is he okay?"

Julian paused and gazed at me as well. He placed his hand on mine, "Yeah he's fine. First time." He smiled.

Then man slowly shook his head in understanding handed the invitations back to us, "You're good to enter."

Julian nodded his head and drove on.

***

We took our reserved place in the parking lot, coming upon the presence of the Elite Castle. It didn't take much to tell the banquet would be extravagant. Just looking from the outside I saw thousands of people gathered.

Musicians played their Jazz serenade on stages, their music flowing out through the walls. Glasses on glasses of champagne stood placed on display, and tables were cluttered with food. Everyone and everything was covered in jewels. It was the gathering of the riches of Terra. Once we got out the car I couldn't hold back my anxiousness.

I underestimated the banquet entirely, and now I was feeling humility for my lack of optimism. Roy allowed himself to be mystified by the event, rushing ahead of us trying to catch up with the other group. The entrance to the door was like an award show. A red carpet was rolled out onto the pavement, guiding the guests like they were honors.

Powerful men and women dressed in royal clothes, furs, and colors too extraordinary to be seen in the likes of city class people. They strolled on, greeting cameras and partakers in the banquet like kings and queens. It definitely made me feel intimidated. I couldn't level up to their inner pride.

"Lighten up little guy." Yonic whispered, gleaming at the cameras and people as they admired his crossing.

Roland shook hands with several nobles, holding up the group longer than I was prepared for. I didn't know how popular Roland was until now. He was very humble about it, not being drawn into the media's eye. It still didn't stop people from rushing him on for a handshake.

Even worse, people rushed me on for a handshake.

As I lolled forward through the crowd, a group of individuals approached me, awed by my eyes. It's what people noticed first when they get a glimpse of Roland's esoteric, fragile son. My pastel eyes, and their nearly pure absence of melanin. An endemic of my disease, but a invaluable heredity to humans. Now they've cursed me with unwanted attention.

"Kaur! How are you young man? My look at you!" An outlandish woman complemented me, "Look at those exquisite eyes. They haven't changed color since you were a child."

"Thank you ma'am." I replied.

"Roland speaks about you all the time. My what special eyes you have, I knew it was true." Another man spoke, pushing forward to look upon me.

"Those handsome eyes! Are they real? I'd love to see your parents." Another woman awed.

"Of course they're real! Look at his skin, and his hair! They're all pale."

"How beautiful."

"Your parents have wonderful genes."

"Thank you," I repeated, with a contrived smile.
Hand after alienated hand approached me. People with branded designs and permanently ornamented skin touched me like I was an animal. They felt my hair, brushed my skin, and stared into my eyes. I've never had so much attention before. Never had so much contact.

Can we please get a move on, I begged.

I was anxious to enter the castle, but everyone was crowding in, trying to get a piece, a touch or a look of us.

A lot of them were familiar of me, calling me out by name, though I've never seen them before. Even through my introvert lifestyle, it seemed people already knew of my being. Nothing was secret with Roland being a latent to the Elites. His personal life belonged to the state, and that frightened me.

How have they not found out?

We moved on, passing through the glass arched doors of the castle. Anyone who didn't gasp with awe when they approached were blind or brain dead. The castle was more than I could've envisioned, surpassing even the outside.

The heavenly interior was the true sense of holy. The ceiling was skyhigh, painted with portraits of angels and gods. They danced in the heavens, their garments flowing over the clouds and earth. White washed columns trimmed with gold, shaped out the architect.

Crystal lights decorated the walls like honey colored rain, individually bright. The floor was made of marble, flaked with gold. To the right was an open dining room, where tables sat with cloth woven of jewels and lace.

Two large staircases led up to the mezzanine, where the Elites sat condescending on ivory thrones, facing the crowds below. Their red capes draped over their legs, signifying their authority. Their hair flowed waist length, thick and voluminous. Their beauty was irreplaceable, and unattainable by man. They were a council of seraphims, casting their heavenly splendor on us all. Each of them were well built and tall, designed in the image of human perfection.

The Elite women were dressed modestly, but their bodies were still lustful. Their figures were shaped perfectly, the garments caressing each soft rounded curve. Their legs were lascivious, enough to make a man beg on his knees for their endearment.
Their faces were complete with an enchanting feminosity, that could make any woman feel envious. I strained to see their gentle lips and divine eyes. After I forced myself to look away, I felt as if I might have committed a sin.

I wished to get a closer glimpse of their presence, longing to witness the myths of their glamour. Even from afar they looked as if they belonged in the paintings themselves, spawned with wings and halos.

Guards stood around them in white uniforms, onlooking the guest hall. More authorities were stationed on the third floor, carrying machine guns in hand, hidden by the railings and podiums. Dobermans sat patiently by their guardian's legs, they too observing with attentive eyes. They were prepared for anything.

Roland lead us to the middle of the banquet hall, greeting prior guests every step of the way. He knew everyone by name, and if they had any sense, knew his as well.

The girls stayed near him, getting bathed in compliments by hierarchies. They always got spoiled first. Something about female children drew everyone to adornment. The way they blushed and played with their hair, the way they twirled side to side in their dresses. The played the crowd like dogs.

Julian, Roy and I stood nearby, greeting members from other households. I glanced to see some of my brother's acquaintances treading in the crowd. They formally exchanged greetings and pats on the back. As they presumed in small talk, other members from the Martier and Lucullus household came forth.
They were the few hierarchy families that were actually accommodated with us. Roland wasn't fond of everyone, even though everyone was fond of him. Therefore, he only kept close ties with Veteran households, and those who were worthy to reflect his success and dignity.

Axon, of the Lucullus household was one person in particular I knew. He was a little older then me, but we attended the same meetings. We were once very close friends, back when I was a feeble child.
When our families met at gatherings or festivals, Roy and I would accompany him and his younger brothers around the venues. We were rascals, causing all kinds of havoc during events. From freeing the doves from their cages, to aiming food in women's wigs, we always found ways to keep occupied.

But my family stopped going, and I was too young to go out on my own. We missed several months together, and months passed onto years. We didn't grow up in the same district at the time, so meeting up was out of the question.

Only thing that kept us acquainted was his family's and ours relationship. Julian, Silas and Cale worked together with the Lucullus' oldest three. So during deployment, or even at home, they were always together.

"Looks like you've gotten better, Kaur." Yusuf smiled. He was the oldest child of Lucullus. Axon was standing next to him, eyeing me impassively.

"Yeah. I've been good."

"Heard you've been getting around more. Finally over the cold?"

"Yeah, but just a little. I can't over work myself."

"I understand," He solaced, "It's been a long wait, I'm glad you pulled through. You've were always an outgoing kid. Your personality was definitely one of the perks we missed."

"Thank you." I smiled, "That means a lot."

Yusuf nodded in appreciation, and placed his hand on his hip, "So you do plan on coming around again?"

"I'm not sure." I replied apologetically.

"Axons pretty good at hunting now. Remember when we used to go to the brook? Fishing with bows."

"I remember that," I gleamed.

"You and Axon were a competitive duo."

"I could never keep up with Kaur, despite him being smaller." Axon added, his expression warm in muse.

"Guess it's sorta ironic now, right." I smiled, but my expression was faint.

Axon gazed at me dully without a reply. His expression seemed to reinstate the extremity of our distance. Yusuf cleared his throat and eyed me hintingly. We all three exchanged quick awkward glances, unsure how to proceed. It's been so many years, I didn't know how I could break the ice between Axon and I.

"So, I'm going to bother Julian for a bit," Yusuf abruptly waved, "Nice talking with you again."

He quickly maneuvered out of the circle. Now Axon and I were in the spotlight. He remained closed; looking around a bit, not really knowing where to start the conversation. I rubbed the back of my neck and gazed away as well. It shouldn't be this hard to talk to someone. We were at one point best friends. How much could've changed?

"So.."

"So." I replied.

"Long time no see right?"

"Yeah, it's been awhile."

We paused, and I took the opportunity to take in a rigid breath. I felt like my body was scorching hot. I was being irrationally nervous.

"So, you're still sneaking around putting vinegar in people's drinks?"

"Yeah, right," I laughed sarcastically, "I'm also planning a mission to knock down the champagne tower later on tonight."

"Now that's something you would do."

"If I was a menace to society."

"Maybe you were. Don't know until you try."

"Stop being a bad influence."

"I'd never." He grinned, placing his hands in his pockets. The atmosphere between us had shifted a little, and things felt a bit more comfortable. We continued to speak, like casual old friends catching up again. He hasn't changed much, besides the fact he was more chilled back; somewhat like myself. Cool and collected, not really exaggerating his words or jokes. He'd grown up considerably, and luckily his title hasn't gotten to him yet.

"You guys want to go get some appetizers?" Roy narrowed in, gesturing me and Axon towards the dining area.

"Fine by me." Axon sparked. I nodded my head in agreement, and followed them through the hall.

We made a quick stop in front of a server, who was holding up a tray of salmon brochette. I remember the times my family ordered this, mostly on late nights out. Roland would serve us out to dinner at a restaurant on the harbor. It wasn't my favorite, the bread too firm for my liking. But I was willing to try anything again at this point.
We each took our own, and ate it carefully as to not get it on our clothes.

The orchestra had shifted to a more speedy, and ethnic type of sound. Leaving an essence between romance and excitement.
Security came through and gestured the crowd to part. Crowds separated and created a circle in the middle of the room, to make space for the entertainment.

Girls wearing silky ceremonial dresses, and sparkling gold fabrics came dancing in ballet. Their white garments twirled, as they performed a pirouette in the middle of the hall. They flagged their fabrics like a parade of sapphires and pearls. Their bodies were decorated in jewels, and the sheer tops of their garments seemed to morph with their delicate skin.
The crowd seemed to be frozen over, mystified by their elegance and complexity. I for one couldn't seem to be able take my eyes away from them. Something extravagant and new remained in every second, every twist and every curve. Looking away now may cause you to miss a whole chapter.

As the audience cheered the music sped up, and the dancers stepped faster; graceful and fierce. Their dresses began to change hue, and they let down their hair. A vivid parade of flames ignited the room. Their dresses turned scarlet, trickled in frozen drops of honey.

It was breathtaking; astoundingly beautiful. It was as if their bodies were ablaze, flickering and swaying like a fire in the wind.

"Hey, looks who's here." Roy whispered, pointing out someone on the other side of the crowd. I squinted my eyes to see where he was looking. I had forgotten my glasses somewhere on my dresser. As I focused in, a girl looked our way, and I suddenly felt my heart leap.

"Safeara."

I tried to hide away my eager gleam, but failed without a doubt. She saw me, and returned my grin. I felt a tad embarrassed, but didn't let it become visible. She waved at me daintily, and turned back to the man beside her.

It was her father, Xeyrus.

I felt a bit nervous about approaching her, in front of him and all. But she looked nothing less than beautiful, with her lush body and provocative brown eyes. She was standing out even among the dancers. I couldn't keep myself away from her forever.

"Think I should talked to her?" I asked, my eyes still fixed on her.

"Who?" Axon glanced, "Her? Sure why not."

"I don't know. I want to though." I muttered.

"Just go Kaur." Roy encouraged.

I hesitated. I did feel an urge to approach her, but I wasn't sure how to make the first step. I must've looked stupid, openly fixated on her body at such a distance.

"You going over to say Hi, or will I have to do it?" Roy teased, taking a few steps towards her direction.

"Back off she's mine," I growled, pulling Roy back behind me. I knew he would seriously do it if I didn't. I was not about to be out done.

Trying to appear confident, I straightened my tie and started my journey towards her. I felt a rush of indictment, and couldn't help but put a stride in my walk. I had to be dominant; show her what I'm worth. Even if it wasn't my first impression, it would be my first real engagement.
"Go get em' tiger." I heard Roy cheered.

She turned my way again, her cheeks blushing red with bashfulness. Her father was busy talking to someone else. It was a perfect opportunity. I got this, I repeated as I closed in the last few steps around the crowd.

Someone grabbed me by my shoulder.

The grip was strong; sturdy enough to jerk me off balance. Visibly pissed off, I swerved around, prepared to give the guy a scolding.

Then I forgot my intentions.

Gripping my shoulder was the hand of a god. I didn't need to see his entire body. The hand with the ring tells it all. My blood ran cold, but at the same time I felt as if I was having a heat flash.
My eyes traced the lengths of his arm, hard and thicken with muscles. They showed defined and superior against the lines of his fabrics. I met his formidable face, and I was shook with idolizing fear. His almond eyes were of the lightest gold, and his seraphic face was of a pure beige. His lips were full; his hair flowing like a river under a sunset. He had a silver circlet in his hair, his crown and jewel. He wore all black, besides for gold brocade trim of his clothes, and his blood red cape.

He looked at me, amused by my astonishment. He was a man of unconquerable dignity and majesty. In his presence, I couldn't help but express a sense of self mockery. All I could think of was how badly I had messed up; nearly snapping at a Elite. I was sure he could kill me with his glare alone.

He was the commander of Terra's army, chief of state, leader of council, and the face of our dominion. I looked around and at least twenty guards were staring me down the barrel.

Everyone who was around us watched closely, intrigued and awed. I could feel their eyes comparing me, judging me, and then studying him. I felt like he forced me into a trial.

One wrong move Kaur..

"Young Elwell." The Elite spoke softly, removing his hand from my shoulder. I could still feel the heat from where it's presence once was.

"Lord Councilor Ladon." I stuttered.

"How you've grown." He pondered, placing his hand on his chin, "Last time I saw you you were still a young child."

"Oh, uhm...yeah." I muttered, feeling a bit withdrawn.

"I heard you made a stressful recovery," He observed, "I hope you aren't too tensed by the banquet."

"Oh, no my Lord. I'm fine. The banquet is wonderful, I'm glad you've invited me."

"My pleasure. I was hoping you would come," Ladon smiled, "I feel like you haven't gotten the chance to formally acquaint you. I was close with your older three brothers, but never heard much of you."

"I-" I hesitated, "Well, I've been kind of..-well...-"

"I understand." Ladon finished, cocking his head slightly to the right. His expression was curiously intrigued. For a second I thought he wanted to disect me.

"I'm surprised he doesn't have night vision by now." Julian remarked, popping up to my rescue.

Thank god, I thought.

He held a glass of champagne in his hand, his chin slightly raised and pose authoritative. He's been around Ladon for ages, working in SHURA as a marksman. He had no problem having a conversation with him, unlike myself. I felt at ease with him near me.

"Hello Julian," Ladon greeted, "You look to be enjoying yourself."

"Enjoying myself is all I can do my Lord. Your banquet is amazing." Julian admired, glancing around as if to recapture his first moments.

"Thank you, I certainly do hope so," Ladon spoke, nodding his head in approval, "Where is your father?"

"He should be near. We arrived not too long ago. I'm sure he's looking for you."

"Is that so." Ladon breathed, seemingly jaded with Julian's response. His eyes scanned through the crowd, quickly losing interest in us. Julian turned to take a sip of his champagne, eyeing me with relief.

As if on que, Roland approached with a woman by his side. I didn't know who she was, but I felt fortunate someone was here.

"Roland, how generous of you to come."

"It's my pleasure." Roland grinned, sharing a charismatic smile.

"And Bella, you look beautiful this evening." Ladon spoke, enamoringly.

"Why thank you my Lord." She beamed, her alluring smile glowing.

They engaged in conversation, with Ladon leading the subjects. Julius became absorbed into the group, and after awhile I dismissed myself to the dining hall. I felt Ladon's eyes watch me as I go, like a predator allured by its target.

My family knows Ladon wants to take me under his wing, find out what makes me break. During the time we talked, Ladon had purposely pushed his questions onto me, eroding away my walls and comfort zones.

He asked me if I was interested in joining the squadrons, and seeing Roland there, I immediately said no.

I knew what jobs they did.

I knew who they truly worked for.

Joining would be an treachery to myself. A denial of my existence. An approval for my death, and patriotism against the weak.

But...

If I had a chance to leave my other half behind...To live life...to travel...to not be afraid..

Would I?

I made my way to the dining hall, unable to find Roy or Axon. I saw Soren was with Tina, standing by a large window surrounded by a group of young people.
Yonic was sitting at a round table with members of another household, laughing and sipping on grape cocktail. He was the life of the entertainment, sitting with a bunch of upper class people, drinking, laughing with wealth. He belonged with them.

I on the other hand, belonged with no one.

I retired to the beverage table, pouring myself a glass of purified water. I was tired, mentally drained, and now sporting a headache. Everyone's bold hair and clothing soon became an eyesore. All they did was discuss themselves, their valuables and privileged. It didn't take long for me to grow sick of it all.

I took a sip of the water, the cool liquid freeing my thirst.
I stood there watching them with disgruntled eyes. My headache subsided to a numb throbbing, only a nuisance behind my eyes. I watched the musicians serenade the guests, their calm music in-heartening. For a bit I felt at ease, the voices of people and their indulgence drowned by the orchestras, and the upbeat rhythm of the drums.

I could listen to the music all night, the way it flowed through my ears and to my pulse, eradicating my pain and troubles. It put me in a trance where nothing could reach me.

Something brushed the side of my face, instinctively making me look right. It was weird, as if someone was right next to me and touched me. I felt a jolt of some sort, like electricity running through my body. I stared into a crowd, a bit frightened.

I didn't know what made me search, just an itch in the back if my head. A signal of some sort, trying to guide me to someone. People dispersed and connected, walking around socializing, taking pictures, and drinking.

A man turned, as if something had altered him. He slowly met my stare.

As if to confirm that someone was him, a rush of nausea came over me. I unknowingly took a step back, a bit hazed by what's happened.

The man tilted his head and narrowed his eyes, studying me questionably.

He had a definite interest.

His white hair swayed like snowy hills. He had a braid going down his back, loose bangs falling over his face. A thin red ribbon was tied around his neck, contrasting with his otherwise pale appearance. He couldn't be older than Silas, but what caught me off guard the most was...

His eyes.

They were light in color, resembling someone of that with albinism. Despite their pale amethyst appearance, they had some sort of similarity within them that I couldn't quite put a pin on.

He turned back to the guests, who he must've been paired with and said something. He bowed his head, and they exchanged pats and hand shakes. I realized he was dismissing himself from the group. I had provoked him to leave.

Then as if to mock my being as some irrelevant cretin who's not worth worrying for, he lifted his hand to pull a strand of hair behind his ear.

Then I saw it...

My body froze over as my eyes traced the metal piece.

My father's crest.

I stood there watching him like an fool. Not the faintest instinct coming to mind. The man turned to me, his eyes enigmatic, staring me down with clear injunction. I looked around, not sure what to do.

I wanted to call him, but the words were hidden from my lips. It was as if the man placed a hex on me, compelling me to stay silent. I was confused, and wondering. The air that radiated around him, his hand marked with my father's crest, was bone chilling.

He neared closer.

I tried to gander away and pretend I didn't see him. It was the stupidest idea I've ever thought of, seeing how we just spent a whole ten staring into eachother's eyes. Despite how blankly obvious it was, I continued to act like an ordinary observer.

As he came close, his presence made me indisposed. His spiritual essence even more bilious.

Why did you have to look, I cursed myself.

My symptoms were returning, and intensify from the stress. It felt like something was eating away my muscles, making me feel ramshackled in pain. I was visibly sick.

This isn't good.

The man turned next to me, his figure poised. He picked up a wine filled glass and brought it to his lips. I had no idea what he was doing...

Maybe he was checking to make sure I noticed.

He looked out at the hall, and at the instrumentalists as they played their classical tunes.

I couldn't see his expression, or read his body language. I felt probed to keep staring at whatever was in front of me... But I had to get at least some intimation of who he is.

Timid, I slid a glance towards his direction. The man smoothly opened his lips.

"Leave."

I stood there unresponsive. He never turned but I could see the warning in his face. Feeling like I've just been shot, my body was shaking. He still faced the orchestra.

What does he mean?

He's waiting for something. For how long, I'm not sure.

Could he be a spy?

Does he know my father?

What does the crest mean?

I listened to the blare of the music. The man, after a few unspoken moments vanished back into the crowd. I felt his presence long after he'd gone.
Once I was content, I decided I should alert the authorities. But the more the intention came to me, the more the man dawned on me.

He knows me.

I nervously took another sip of water, ready to finish off and retrieve Roland. My body viciously rejected this resolve, and I gagged on the last gulp, wincing as my stomach tore with pain. With no medicine in my system, and no way of relief, the pain fluctuated. I coughed, cursing myself as I caught the attention of others nearby. A crowd was the last thing I needed.

I quickly made my way to the halls, towards a private space where I could gather himself. I took a left into a empty hallway that lead to the back of the castle and it's gardens.
The light was dimmer there, leaving it harder for me to maneuver around. I kept going until the sound of the banquet faded behind me.

I leaned against a wall and was immediately struck into a horrible hacking fit. As I brought my hand up to shield my mouth blood smeared against my palm.

I was bleeding internally.

I cursed myself for not bringing the pills.

My vision demolished, my eyes teared, and my body broke out in painful tremors.

I pulled off my blazer, viewing upon what my affliction had done. The scars ran from the tip of my fingers and to my shoulder, swollen hard and red.

There were no words to describe it. It was like some hellish disease was eating away at me.

Suddenly I felt the ground quake...

A light flashed behind me, coming from the direction of the banquet hall. I thought it was a fallen chandelier, but once the heat hit me I realized..

An explosion.

The wave came through and forced me onto my back. The windows shattered, hailing over me. I felt my clothes and hair singe from the fire.

No!

My skin burned, and all I could see was the black flames. My ears ranged and my surroundings disarranged into a nightmare. I heard screaming In the distance, bullets igniting every corner.

I heard the dogs snarling and wailing in thirst. There was no direction. No escape.

I needed to find my family.

My hand traced down my chest, feeling the mutilations my body withstood.
Blood poured through my shirt, soaking my entire torso with red.

Shaking, I gently touched the open wound with the tip of my finger. I felt the unbearable lacerations of glass shards sticking through me.

They were deep, scathing underneath my rib cage.

There was no way I could pull them out...

I brought my fingers to my face, poring over the flesh charred off my visage. It was cragged, brittle as paper breaking away with age. I swallowed copper, and blinked my eyes.

My breath was too vigorous.

I couldn't get up, nor cough up the fluids that were
building up inside. I was sucking for air, slowly, surely, drowning.

But..

I wasn't dying yet..

I stared up at my hands, and watched the black emerge. It wrapped around my worthless entity; a liquid obsidian expanding, compressing, filling in my brokenness. The stigma began regenerating, healing my body. My blood that now pooled on the floor, clouded into coal. It flooded back into my veins, serving oxygen back into my body.

The process burned insufferably.

My bones cracked in place. The glass began to surface from my ribs, every piece stabbing it's way out of me. I began to cry out, clenching my jaw in agony. My determination remained settled, despite the excruciating pain.

I attempted to sit up, the exhaust still there. My wounds were clotting as my body removed the debris, and soon the bleeding stopped.

I needed to move.

I clawed against the wall, using it to help me stand. The halls were singed black, the castle's gold gone. Burning curtains erupted as the wind sent them throe. The noise from the banquet hall still erupting.

I began to limp way towards the entry.

But something was pulling on me.

Pulling my soul towards it.

I felt it's presence.

The monstrosity.

The manifestation itself...Of fear...
Of survival.

It sounded like a dying animal.

Screeching behind deaths doors.

Was I prepared to face it?

What would I do once I reached the main hall?

Run.

I began to run with all my might. Something was behind me, I was sure if it. There were more of them, more monsters. More darkness. More screams.

What the hell was it?

"No!" I yelled.

I ran forward.

It's coming.

I clawed at the light of the entrance, desperately crying out for an escape.

It's here.

It's voice was like a bomb, setting off and exploding in my head.

It's going to get me.

It's going to get me.

It's going-