16. Chapter 16
16
I sat alone in my room during lunch, hoping the sunlight streaming through the tall pines outside would offer me the same tranquility cascading through my windows. Yet, my mind was anything but calm, swirling with relentless questions and uncertainties. I reached for a book from the stack Levon had given me, hoping to find solace in its pages. But no matter how hard I tried, my thoughts kept gravitating back to the impending Match, the mysterious Spellcasters, and Levon's cryptic mentions of the key I was to him and the stranger who had intruded on my training.
I let out a grunt of irritation, slamming the book closed and feeling the soft, worn spine against my calloused fingers. I had less than an hour before I was scheduled for supper prepping duty with Elise and Saasha, and I silently welcomed the prospect of their company.
Setting the book back on the side table, I grabbed my plate and took it down to the main hall, where I put it on a table before the library.
I peeked into the immaculate room, noticing that Madam Hannel wasn't in her usual place behind her desk. Quietly, I hurried to the back corner she had initially directed me to on my first day here. I never had the opportunity to explore these shelves alone, even after spending much of my free time in the library, assisting her in sorting through books and papers in hopes of uncovering anything related to the Spellcasters. Yet, my efforts always fell short.
I trailed my fingers along the rows of leather-bound books in varying shades. Starting from the far left end, I searched for any title of King Leonard, but nothing immediately caught my eye. Disheartened, I selected a few volumes and leafed through their pages, but my search seemed hopeless. Returning the books to their places, I repeated the process with several more, only uncovering details about historical dates, royal lineages, conquered territories, and military campaigns. With each passing book, my enthusiasm wilted, worn down by the tiny print on every page, until I found an old leather-worn book that looked like it was barely holding together. I leafed through the worn yellow pages to see creatures—terrifying monsters, scribbled throughout.
I turned the page to reveal a grotesque creature, its deformed body towering over the page. It looked as though it had been pieced together from shards of bone and sinew that hadn't fused correctly. The head was lopsided, with eyes of different sizes and rows of jagged teeth dripping with saliva. I shivered as I took in the unsettling image, then glanced down to read the description.
Rankhor
Creation: Unknown.
Inhabits: Unknown.
Claws are able to instantaneously inject poison and has acidic saliva. Eye shots stun them enough to get away.
I turned another few pages, each revealing more grotesque monsters that would undoubtedly haunt my nightmares. One in particular made my skin crawl: Skinners. They appeared almost human but were skeletal and unnaturally elongated, with arms that were disturbingly long and twisted. Their bodies were a patchwork of misshapen skin, bubbling grotesquely over their thin, bony frames. Obsidian eyes stared out from its hollow-like sockets, and a gaping mouth stretched wide in an expression of pure horror. A black, tattered cloak billowed behind their lanky forms, and a sharp dagger gleamed menacingly at their sides. The sight of them was enough to make my blood run cold.
Dark Magics known as Skinners
Creation: Xaldruk—The Forebear of Zepharims
Inhabits: Unmarked Territory, Premthiam, and more unknown regions.
Skinners are dark Magics who delved too deeply into dangerous anomalies from Xaldruk, transforming them into the living dead. They earned their name for their gruesome practice of skinning their victims alive and sewing the skin onto themselves. According to legend, Skinners skin their victims in a desperate attempt to feel whole again.
Approaching footsteps echoed on the polished floors, snapping me out of the horrifying trance as I slammed the book shut, feeling like I might summon them just by reading it. I swiftly shoved the worn leather book back in place and took it as my signal to retreat to the kitchen.
I began rounding the corner, trying to clear my mind of the horrid images of the monsters. Gently touching the cool surface of one of the shelves, I became aware of Levon and Kaizen's voices resonating within the library. Standing rigidly, I held my breath as their quiet voices grew louder as they walked near. I quickly returned to the opposite shelf, hoping to conceal myself.
"This is—"
"Insane?" Kaizen interjected, his annoyance palpable. "I fail to see any silver lining in this situation, Levon. She's isn't doing it, " he spat.
"What other choice do I have?" Levon hissed through clenched teeth. "If we pull her out, the king's eyes will be on us—on her. Jesri will demand her back and take her straight to the Onyx Mar—"
Their voices abruptly ceased as another pair of shoes clicked across the floor.
"Oh! Pardon me," Madame Hannel's voice interrupted.
"No need to apologize, Katherine; we were just leaving," Levon responded warmly.
As Kaizen and Levon's footsteps faded into the main hall, I realized I had been clenching my fists.
Why was Kaizen so desperate to control what I did? And where would Jesri take me?
With my teeth clenched, I slipped out of the library. Fortunately, Madame Hannel was preoccupied with some documents, averting her attention and allowing me to slip by unnoticed. I swiftly grabbed my plate off the table and descended the spiral stairs into the kitchen.
My hands dripped with soapy water as I struggled to push back my hair while scrubbing the last ceramic plate from lunch. Wiping my wet hands on a nearby towel, I glanced over to see Saasha and Elise diligently at work. In muscle memory, their hands quickly dried and chopped ingredients in dinner preparation.
Over the past two weeks, I'd gradually let my guard down around Saasha and Elise, finding solace in their company, and felt genuine excitement whenever we gathered for meal prepping. Unlike the other women I'd known back home, who seemed intent on tearing me down or using me to further their agendas, whether it was getting closer to Jesri or Calum.
I returned to the table and grabbed a knife, joining Saasha and Elise in cutting up the remaining vegetables.
"How did you end up joining Levon's staff?" I inquired, a smile playing on my lips.
"I was found, much like you," Elise replied, completing her final chop of a carrot. "Levon saw something in me and offered me refuge. He gave me a sense of belonging and security when I needed it most, and I owe him more than words can express." Her smile held a hint of something deeper, leaving me curious about the untold chapters of her story.
She often kept her soft blonde curls draped in front of her face to conceal the long scar that ran from the side of her eye to her jaw. Despite her efforts to hide it, there were moments when she would absentmindedly push her hair back, revealing the mark.
Whatever trials she had endured, the resilience in her blue eyes spoke of kindness.
After drying the last plate, Saasha sat in a heap and bit into an apple. "I, on the other hand, asked for the work."
She chewed through her words, driving me to chuckle at how unladylike she was right now and how much I wished I had the strength to be like her.
She was the complete opposite of Elise, with raven-black hair, freckles covering every inch of her dark skin, and seafoam eyes that made me miss the sea salt air.
"Since I had a few useful talents, he decided to give me a chance," Saasha explained, a hint of gratitude in her voice as she savored another bite. "Joining Sir Alder's household was a dream come true for me. Who wouldn't be thrilled to work for someone respected for their kindness?"
Elise chimed in with a nod, her eyes reflecting a similar sense of appreciation.
Then why in Tyran would he associate with Jesri or Kaizen, for that matter? I was unable to comprehend the reasoning behind it.
"Have either of you ever met Kaizen or know if he's been on the estate before?" I inquired, seeking some clarity.
They both shook their heads, mirroring my bewilderment.
"Though Sir Alder is a kind man, he is quiet and keeps to himself," Elise remarked, sliding the produce into a boiling pot of water.
"He's quite the charmer if I do say so myself," Saasha remarked, finishing off her apple and dabbing her hands on her apron.
We all chuckled, diverting our attention to the plucked and cleaned chicken on the table. Saasha swiftly pivoted toward the warm bread oven, sliding in another batch of fluffy dough to rise.
While Saasha tended the bread, I joined Elise in seasoning the chicken.
"Eliah, can you get me the dried lemon, pepper, shallots, and tarragon from that cabinet over there?" she asked, expertly cutting the chicken apart.
I nodded and walked to the cabinet filled with jars of dried spices, the overpowering aroma filling the air as I opened the door. I quickly found the lemon, shallots, and pepper, placing them on the table below. After moving several more jars aside, I found the tarragon, marked with a small dragon scribbled on the label. I brought the spices over to Elise, holding out the tarragon.
"Why does this one have a dragon on it?" I asked as she finished washing her hands and began spreading the lemon and pepper over the chicken.
"It's referred to as the 'little dragon' because of the bite it gives. It's quite the flavor," she explained, finishing the seasoning before placing the chicken in the blazing coal oven.
I nodded, marveling at how much I didn't know about the nuances of preparing such wonderful food.
Together, we carefully lowered the rest of the vegetables into the boiling pot of water, the spices mingling with the rich scents of our cooking.
The kitchen was not as extravagant as Jesri's, but it was comforting with its glowing candlelight's and expansive windows that reflected a cozy warmth. The walls were lined with the same golden stone as the estate's exterior, while its floors were dark-stained wood that mimicked the tabletops and chairs. Several cabinets held spices, produce, nuts, hard cheeses, and anything you could think of that lined one side of its wall, tempting me to take a bite out of some dried berries.
"We may have watched you this morning, and you must teach us how to throw a punch like you did," Saasha exclaimed, leaning casually against the table.
I felt my cheeks flush at the attention. "I'm not sure I quite won that fight," I stated, embarrassed they were watching my outburst from this morning.
"Nonsense, you held your own," Elise reassured me, pulling her hair back forward as she spoke.
I chuckled lightly, sitting beside the long table as we waited for the food to cook. "I can show you much more than that if you'd like?" I offered with a smile, a warmth spreading through me at their kindness.
They both nodded in agreement before Elise spoke up. "I'm sorry for all you've had to endure, Eliah. I can't imagine the weight of your responsibilities. But seeing how adept you are at handling yourself, I have every confidence you'll succeed in the King's Match."
My throat tightened uncomfortably at her praise and realization of how much everyone seemed to know about my past and the King's Match, especially considering I had only recently learned of it. Granted, Jesri had kept most things from me to show dominance.
"Thank you, Elise," I murmured, the gravity of her words settling heavily on my shoulders. Saasha gave me a wink. It was the same knowing wink she had left me with after helping me following the Miehja attack, a silent gesture of support. My heart filled with warmth at their kindness.
We heard footsteps descend the spiral stone staircase, and we all turned to see who approached.
"Lady Eliah?" the tall, rosy-cheeked footman called from the bottom of the stairs. "You have a letter."
Glancing at the girls, I noticed Elise's bright smile and flushed cheeks as she looked at the footman. With a suppressed smile, I approached him, feeling joy at seeing Elise's fondness for him. He extended the letter, and as soon as I saw Calum's handwriting, a rush of longing swept over me. I snatched the letter away, surprised by my yearning to hear from him.
"Thank you."
The footman nodded before turning his attention to Elise and Saasha. "Afternoon, ladies," he greeted, prompting Saasha to continue cleaning while Elise waved.
"Afternoon, Aveal," Elise responded, her cheeks mirroring the rosy hue of Saasha's apple.
Suppressing a grin, I addressed them both. "I'll see you both at dinner?" I confirmed, receiving enthusiastic nods from the pair.
With that, I slipped past Aveal and hurried up the stairs, clenching the letter tightly.
Once upstairs, I hesitated at the main floor, feeling that Kaizen might be with Levon in his study, and I didn't want to run into him headed to my room, so I decided to go back to the library instead.
As I entered, Madame Hannel was engrossed in her paperwork, hardly noticing my arrival. I made my way to my usual corner, settling into the velvety red chair next to the stack of books I had been perusing during my stay.
I quickly tore the letter open.
My dearest Eliah,
Forgive my delayed correspondence. Uncle has tasked me with numerous responsibilities that once fell upon your capable shoulders, and I cannot help but feel remorse for not sharing the burden with you sooner. I deeply regret not being the friend you deserved, and I offer my sincerest apologies.
As I read Calum's formal words, I couldn't help but stifle a laugh. His attempts at formality were endearing, though transparent with his silly games that I somehow found myself missing. I shook the thoughts away and kept reading.
I must confess, I did not anticipate the profound sense of solitude that would accompany me each morning without seeing your face, no matter how cunning your demeanor may have been.
Stop the eye-rolling.
I did stop mid-motion.
I trust your time with Sir Alder proves less demanding than living here. I hope you are seizing the opportunity to explore the world while you still have the chance.
I've been researching on my own since Uncle won't tell me anything and I've stumbled upon further information regarding the evil Magics—details I believe you would find intriguing.
Supposedly, they were part of the Magics that went rogue, wanting something more for their lives since they knew they would wither away with King Leonard and his savage war.
Fable says that they went to live within the Adauntas Mountains, where even the mountains began bowing to them—whatever that means.
I have already said too much in a letter. I hope you'll burn it like that book that might have given us more details.
Aoife told me to give you her most profound love.
I miss you, Eliah.
Cal
My heart swelled as I read his words, realizing how much I missed him. Memories of our time together, nestled beneath that wicked, faulty wish tree, flooded my mind. Despite my attempts to suppress them, those childish yearnings lingered.
Shifting my focus to the Spellcasters, I couldn't help but wonder how Calum managed to gather information on them. Perhaps it wouldn't hurt to ask Levon if he had any insights if he wouldn't punish me for asking due to its illegality. However, the excitement I felt moments ago was quickly overshadowed by regret and despair, knowing I wouldn't o btain more knowledge.
I stuffed the letter into my pocket and stormed towards Levon's study, praying Kaizen would be elsewhere. With a few hours until dinner, a walk through town seemed like the perfect way to shake off my overwhelming thoughts, hoping to pry more information from Levon.
Bounding up the stairs, I took them two at a time, lost in thought, when I nearly collided with Kaizen. He clenched my arms, swiftly catching my fall.
" Careful, " he growled, his grip tight with irritation.
I shrugged off his hands and shoved past him, refusing to acknowledge his presence. Striding purposefully towards Levon's study, I found the door closed. I raised my hand to knock—
"He's not here," Kaizen interrupted, his tone dripping with disdain, leaning up against the railing.
I clenched my teeth, willing myself to stay calm. Squaring my shoulders, I met his gaze head-on. "And where might he be?" I demanded, my voice tight with frustration.
"Out," he replied curtly.
"Out where ?" I advanced towards him, arms folded defensively across my chest.
"Why does it matter to you?" he countered, his stare unwavering.
"Who are you?" I demanded, changing the subject and wishing he would just leave. He only mirrored my stance, stoned faced. I huffed out a breath, attempting to quell my irritation. "Just tell me where he is, will you? I have a question for him."
"You can ask me anything," he retorted, his steps matching mine as he closed the distance, adjusting a loose strand of hair escaping his half-bun.
I scoffed, rolling my eyes dramatically. "Oh, right! Because clearly, you answer my questions," I snapped, the sarcasm dripping from my words. I couldn't help but let out a bitter laugh before my expression hardened into a glare.
"That question was irrelevant," he sneered.
"Okay, well, how do you and Levon know each other? Obviously, you and Levon are very well acquainted to let you stay here and train me."
"Why do you care to know so much about me?" he taunted with a sly grin.
"I think I should if you are the one hiding in trees," I spat.
His lip barely tugged up as he let out a low grumble. "Levon and I have known each other a long time. But our views changed, and we went separate ways…until recently."
"Until recently?" I echoed.
He glared at me, refusing to elaborate.
I gritted my teeth, knowing I was getting nowhere. "Where is he?" I asked one last desperate time.
Kaizen's vibrant amber gaze turned fiery, and for a moment, I thought he might lash out. I braced for a brawl, but to my surprise, he relented. "He's at the market, meeting a friend. And you shouldn't be left in the dark about anything," he admitted, his voice unusually agreeable.
"Oh?" I mocked, not wanting this conversation any longer. I stormed past him, eager to escape his irritating eyes.
The daylight outside meant the Miehja weren't likely to be lurking about, and the idea of heading to the markets for some fresh air sounded much more appealing than sitting stuck in here with him. I walked past him and headed for the stairs.
"Now, where do you think you're going?" Kaizen's voice cut through the air as he trailed two paces behind me.
"Out," I replied, echoing his earlier tone. But before I could take another step, he grabbed my arm, pulling me back towards him.
"Not without protection, you aren't," he insisted, his grip firm and unyielding.
I hissed in frustration, forcefully pushing his calloused hand away. "I don't need your protection. Besides, the Miehja are not out this time of the day," I retorted, continuing down the stairs with him in reluctant tow.
"The Miehja are always a danger, day or night. And you did need my protection last night," he countered, halting my stride with his words.
I stopped abruptly, skeptical. "What do you mean they're always out? Wouldn't there be more…casualties if that were the case?"
Kaizen paused, weighing his words carefully. "The Miehja only attack what they perceive as a threat," he explained cautiously.
I scoffed, gesturing to myself in disbelief. "And I look like a threat?" I challenged.
He met my gaze evenly. "Apparently."
I shook my head in frustration and stormed out the door, heading straight for the narrow path where I was attacked just hours earlier. There were no signs of the incident on my body, making the whole situation seem utterly ludicrous. Kaizen's sudden appearance and his audacity to order me around as if he hadn't just materialized out of thin air—it all felt wrong. Something didn't add up…but deep down, I knew the only person who would give me any pretense of truth was the insufferable man now trailing behind me, back into the very woods where he saved me.
He trailed behind me in muteness the entire way, his silence only adding to my irritation. Yet, begrudgingly, I couldn't deny a slight sense of relief knowing he was there in case the Miehja decided to make an unwelcome appearance.
His steps were silently stealthy, prompting me to glance back several times to see if he was truly following. But he vanished without a trace once we reached the town, lifting an unwanted weight off my shoulders. Yet, I couldn't shake the feeling that he would continue to keep a watchful eye on me from a distance.
The market was noticeably quieter compared to the bustling scene on my first day with Levon. Vendors were slowly packing their stands for the evening, stowing away fruits, clothing, and trinkets. The air was thick with the scent of spices, teasing my senses and stirring my appetite.
As I strolled through the bustling market, several friendly faces greeted me with warm smiles. Each nod and wave filled me with a comforting sense of belonging. It felt refreshing to blend into the crowd, savoring the simple joy of being just another person among the vendors and shoppers. For a while, I was free from the weight of my background and the ever-watchful presence of my guardian. The lively chatter, the vibrant displays of goods, and the rich aromas of street food created a tapestry of normalcy that I rarely experienced. This brief escape allowed me to breathe easier, my steps lighter as I navigated through the market stalls.
I took in the array of colorful scarves, indulged in the aroma of ripe berries, and even sampled one without charge. My heart swelled with the excitement of new experiences and the simplicity of life here. Unlike the constant whirlwind of extravagant events at Jesri's estate, life in this quaint town allowed me to simply exist, free from the pressure of expectations. Despite my rigorous training sessions each morning, everything felt different, as if I were shedding the constraints of my past and embracing a newfound sense of self.
"Hello, dear one," a crackling voice called out as I passed a makeshift tent. I halted in my tracks, turning to see an old woman beckoning me over. Her toothless grin gave her mouth an eerie appearance, and my curiosity was piqued as she held up an unusual gem that shimmered with an otherworldly glow, its colors shifting in the sunlight.
"Do you believe in spirits?" she asked, thumbing over the gem. Her voice carried an unsettling undercurrent that sent a shiver down my spine.
My gaze snapped back to her, surprised by her sudden and unexpected remark.
The notion of spirits had never truly crossed my mind before. "I don't know," I confessed, feeling uncertain and needing to flee from her gaze.
"Come closer, child. Let me show you the treasures that seek you," she urged, her voice quivering as her hand trembled uncontrollably. The sparkling stone she held radiated with an ethereal light, casting an eerie glow over her weathered features.
I offered her a hesitant smile, finding her approach rather strange. "They're quite peculiar. Where did you come across such gems?"
"That, my dear, is a question that will die with me," she replied with a toothless grin, her words tinged with an unsettling sense of fear.
I glanced down at the table cluttered with an assortment of glittering jewels, their radiance contrasting sharply with the worn surface beneath them. Some gems shimmered with a captivating blend of gold, pink, and blue, while others boasted the regal hues of copper and sapphire.
"I haven't seen you around here before. Visiting or new to town?" The woman croaked.
Struggling to tear my gaze away from the captivating gems, I offered her a hesitant smile. "Visiting," I replied tersely, a sense of unease settling over me in response to her piercing stare.
"Who?" she pressed, her scrutiny growing more intense with each passing moment.
I hesitated, feeling a knot form in my stomach as I carefully weighed my words. "Just a friend," I finally managed, my voice strained and feeling a need to escape. "I don't have any money, but thank you for letting me look at your—"
"Eliah? What are you doing here?" Levon's scolding voice shattered the tense atmosphere with a feeling of relief despite his disapproval, which hung heavy in the air like a thundercloud on the brink of bursting.
I gave Levon a tentative smile, quickly averting my eyes from the gaze of the old crone. "I've come to get some fresh air."
Levon's glare bore into the old woman before returning to me, his expression a mixture of concern and frustration. Behind him, Edmon stood like an imposing figure, a silent sentinel guarding our every move. Levon seized my arm and guided me away into a secluded corner, his grip firm with agitation.
"Are you mad?" he hissed.
"I thought you said you wanted to help me be free. Did you not?" I retorted, frustration bubbling beneath the surface as I met Levon's gaze with defiance. He massaged his forehead and released my arm with a resigned sigh.
"It was only last night you showed up bloodied and torn at my door. Can you not stay put?" he pleaded, his tone tinged with exasperation as he looked around.
"Stay put?" I scoffed, unbelieving. "Levon, I've stayed put my entire life." There was a fleeting flicker of realization in his eyes, but it vanished as quickly as it had appeared. "And don't worry—"
"He's here?" Levon interrupted, his voice sharp with concern.
I halted, surprised by the sudden fearfulness that flashed in Levon's eyes, his gaze darting anxiously through the crowd.
"Yes, he walked me here," I replied, my confusion evident in my tone. Levon noticed and sighed with frustration, turning towards Edmon, who was conversing with a dark-haired woman nearby.
"Ed!" Levon called out, his voice carrying over the bustle of the market as Edmon bid farewell to the woman and made his way towards us, his hair swaying into his eyes.
"Hi there, Eliah," Edmon greeted, tipping his head in acknowledgment.
I offered him a curt nod and forced a tight smile.
"We'll continue another time, and you will join us for dinner next week," Levon declared, directing his words toward Edmon.
Edmon chuckled and nodded. "I'd better be off then. It's good to see you, Eliah."
Levon extended his arm, signaling me to take it, and began leading me out of the market. As we passed by others, his stance was unwelcoming as he cautiously scanned the area.
"Levon, what's going on?" I demanded, clutching his arm tightly, anger rising within me. "Please, no more secrets," I spat out, unable to contain my frustration.
He scanned the surroundings as we finally reached the narrow path leading to his home. "Fine, if you must know, I got word that Edmon knows what might occur for the King's Match."
I abruptly stopped, my feet grinding against the pebbles underneath. "Truly?"
He nodded, his expression grave. "He's got reliable sources, and they all seem to agree. King Thealor's been hauling in crates and cages filled with food and…wild animals."
"Animals?" I repeated incredulously, my voice dripping with disbelief.
"Yes," he muttered, his voice tinged with regret.
My mind returned to the nerve-wracking evaluation I endured with those ferocious beasts. No, it couldn't be.
" When did you find out about this?" I demanded, my anger bubbling up fiercely.
My question stopped him in his tracks, and I could see the guilt flicker across his face. That's why he insisted on that evaluation with those creatures. Would he have still taken me if I hadn't passed? Would the creatures be like the Miehja? Or those beasts? I didn't realize I had been trembling until Levon grasped my hands in his.
"Eliah," he cursed, his voice urgent, forcing me to meet his gaze. "Eliah, don't be afraid. "
"You knew from the start. You knew," I accused, my anger fueling every step as I marched forward, the crunch of the rocks drowning out the tumult of emotions raging within me. How? How could I have been so blind not to see it?
"Eliah, please," he implored, desperation seeping into his voice.
I heard the crunch of an extra pair of feet walking behind me, and my mind immediately flashed back to Kaizen's words: You shouldn't be left in the dark about anything.
I stopped abruptly, pivoting on my heels. I deserved to know—no more secrets.
"Who are the Spellcasters?" I demanded, my tone laced with anger and determination, thinking to ask about that book of monsters, but thought better of it. They were fables. They had to be.
Levon's eyes went rigid with fear, and he quickly glanced over to Kaizen, who appeared like a shadow and remained stone-faced as always. I squared my shoulders, placing a hand on my hip, refusing to back down. We still had an hour or two before dinner…I could wait.
The tension hung heavy in the air as the two men exchanged a silent conversation through their eyes, and Levon's complexion drained of color.
"Tell us what you know," Kaizen ordered, his voice cold and commanding.
After I shared my limited knowledge about the Spellcasters, Levon's expression morphed from bewilderment to fear and finally settled on anger. He grabbed Kaizen, demanding him away, and the two exchanged heated words, making the gravel pathway back to his estate feel even more ominous. My anger ignited, shaking me from the core and sizzling the air around me. I stepped towards them, intruding on their conversation, when Kaizen held up a hand, looking at me with an icy warning that sent chills down my spine, even as my burning anger flared within.
" Breathe, Eliah ," Kaizen's voice cut through the rage swirling inside me, placing his hand on my shoulder.
I heaved in through my nose, hating everything and hating the secrets. Hating these wretched men. Hating Jesri and especially hating Kaizen. I gritted my teeth, pushing my anger harder against the cold.
" Then tell me, " I hissed out, venom lacing my tongue.
Kaizen's grip tightened on my shoulder, pulling me away from Levon, who was now wide-eyed and just as angry.
"Kaizen, no. We can't," Levon demanded, but Kaizen's hold on my arm grew more painful.
I thrashed against him, struggling to maintain my balance as he shoved me to the ground with a vicious, taunting grin. I hit the gravel with a huff, feeling its sting as it bit into my palms upon impact. My lips peeled back, exposing my teeth, while the flames of rage roared deep, boiling my blood with steam.
"No, orphan . You are not ready," Kaizen rasped, his wicked smile endorsing my flames. I lunged for his neck, but before I could reach him, he grabbed hold of my wrists. He pushed me back again, taunting me like some annoying bug that wouldn't leave him alone.
"S houldn't be left in the dark about anything ?" I barked at him, my voice dripping with venomous rage.
He merely smirked in response, provoking me further. With a primal cry, I lunged forward, aiming a punch at his face. But he effortlessly sidestepped, leaving me stumbling forward, my knees and palms meeting the unforgiving gravel.
"You're far too slow, Eliah," Kaizen taunted, his voice dripping with derision. "Perhaps when you learn to fight properly, I'll consider enlightening you."
"Enough of this, Kaizen!" Levon's voice cut through the tension, his fury evident in the fiery glint of his turquoise eyes and worriedly looked around our surroundings.
I jumped up, fueled by a raging desire to tear Kaizen's face apart, but Levon intercepted, standing firmly between us.
"Eliah, stop ," he ordered, gripping my arms with a strength that forced me to meet his gaze. His eyes softened in stark contrast to Kaizen's dismissive snort and prideful retreat.
I wanted to unleash a torrent of curses at him, to rend him limb from limb and rid myself of his presence. I never knew I could hate someone so intensely.
I ground my teeth, fury coursing through me, as Levon's rough hand grasped my chin, forcing me to face him. "Eliah, look at me," he urged, his voice cutting through the storm of anger within me as I averted my gaze. "Look at me."
I fought to rein in my anger, struggling to find my center amidst the tumult of emotions that seemed to take control.
This wasn't who I was.
With a frustrated grunt, I locked eyes with Levon. "If you're still going to hide things from me, I'm done," I declared, my voice a thunderous roar echoing through the trees. "I won't be part of this anymore. Why can't I have a choice, too?" I demanded, wrenching my arms free from his grasp, fully aware that no matter what I wanted, I had no choice in the matter.
Levon let out a heavy sigh, rubbing his temples in frustration. "I know, Eliah. I know," he confessed, his voice heavy with regret. "I want you to have a choice. I want you to be free," he insisted, his words carrying the weight of his sincerity. "I want you to know everything, but…you can't right now. It's too dangerous," he pleaded, his hands closing around mine with a desperate urgency.
"Please, trust me," he implored, his eyes dark with unspoken truths and burdens too heavy to bear alone.
I felt utterly powerless, trapped in a web of obligations and threats. There was no escaping the Miehja, no fleeing from Jesri's reach or this Match.
But something had to change. I had to play their game if I wanted to uncover the secrets veiled from me. I would submit to Kaizen's training, cease my constant questioning, and mold myself into the person they wanted me to be.
I would not bend or surrender my freedom. No matter the price, I was determined to shatter these oppressive chains and liberate myself, even if it meant confronting the wraith of death itself.