“Everything continued as normal afterward until one day, Cor kept getting these terrible headaches. I bet he told you all about it so I’ll skip that part. Anyway, when my parents told me the news that we’re moving to Anka, I was upset about it since I knew that we’re going to lose the free life that we have. They must have sensed my unhappiness because they promised me that it was only temporarily until they can figure out what’s wrong with Cor. Of course, I knew that they were lying; once you register as a citizen of Anka, there’s no turning back.
“Anyway, I grinned and bear it for their sakes. I knew they only did it because of Cor’s condition, and I wanted him to get better too. The next day, we packed up our things and headed to the capital. The move wasn’t that bad, and I got used to living in the city even though I can’t go around freely anymore. The best part was that the doctor figured out how to cure Corwin’s headaches so he was feeling much better. Everyone was in a good mood just like we’re back in the forest – until one day.
“We were about to sit down for dinner when Corwin suddenly collapsed on the floor. He was writhing in agony. Panicked, we immediately gave him his medicine, but after a few minutes, he was still in pain. That was when my parents decided they needed to get the doctor. They told me to keep an eye on Cor while they go out to retrieve him since they thought it would be risky to take Corwin with them. I agreed and watched them left the house. While I was waiting, I kept myself busy by tending to Cor, who seemed to be getting better. However, I started to get worried when I noticed that my parents hadn’t come back yet. I remembered thinking that it was getting dark and that they should’ve been back by now when I heard a knock on the door.
“I thought it was strange that my parents didn’t just open the door but thought it could be the doctor. I rushed over and opened the door to find Mrs. Birten and the police waiting outside. Confused, I asked them what’s wrong, and Mrs. Birten started crying her heart out. She began to blubber about something, but I couldn’t understand her at all. Finally, the officer interrupted her, telling her that he’ll tell me the news. Worried, I asked him what happened, and he informed me that my parents were killed in an accident. A carriage carrying a shipment of elemental stones careened out of control and crashed into a crowd of people, injuring many and killing a few. Unfortunately, my parents were ones of the fatalities. At first, I thought he was joking, but he confirmed it – my parents are dead. He asked me if I could come with him to the morgue to identify them. Stunned, I agreed, but then I remembered about Corwin. Luckily, Mrs. Birten said that she would keep a watch on him while I was away.
“On the way there, I was thinking was that there was no way my parents were dead and praying for good news. The officer must have been mistaken, and they were actually alive. Everything would be okay, and we could continue our lives as normal. Unfortunately, my wishful thinking was proven to be wrong. As soon as the coroner showed me the bodies, I knew it was true – my parents were dead and Corwin and I were now orphaned. After I confirmed their identities, I asked if I could head home since my brother was waiting for me. The officer said it was all right and offered to walk me home, but I declined. I told him that I’ll be fine and headed on my way before he could stop me.
“I barely remembered what happened afterward; to be honest, I was probably in a daze, but somehow I managed to get home. I was trembling all over and could barely walk when I entered the house. Mrs. Birten immediately rushed over and asked me if it was true that my parents were dead. I confirmed it, and she hugged me, telling me that she’s sorry about it. Numb, I asked her how Corwin was doing, and she told me that he was asleep. She then added that she hasn’t told Corwin the news yet. I thanked her since I felt obliged to be the one to deliver the bad news and told her that she should get some rest. She agreed and told me that if I need anything, I can stop by her place. I thanked her again as I watched her leave.”
“For the rest of the night, I just sat in the kitchen. I should have gone to bed, but my mind was in a whirl. All I was thinking was now that our parents were dead, what would happen to Cor and me? How were we going to make ends meet? Should I quit school and try to find a job? I was starting to blank out when I heard footsteps. I turned around to see Corwin at the kitchen door. He must have woken up because he was yawning and rubbing his eyes. Anyway, he asked me why I was still up, and I told him that I couldn’t sleep. Then he asked me if our parents were back yet. As soon as he asked that, I dreaded telling the news. I mean, how can you explain to a six years old that he won’t see his parents ever again?
“I didn’t answer him at first, but I knew I have to do it. After taking a deep breath, I explained to him that our parents won’t be back because they were in an accident. When he heard that, Corwin asked if they were dead, and I just nodded. He immediately asked the very same questions that were in my head. What will happen to us? Will we be put in an orphanage and separated? Stuff like that. I tried to answer his questions the best I can, but even I didn’t have all of the answers. I think he knew that I was stressed because he walked up to me and patted me on the back, telling me that everything was going to be all right.
Noeth took a deep breath as he readied himself for the hardest part of his story. “Well, I snapped. Maybe it’s because of the dawning realization that I am now the breadwinner or the fear of the unknown; it could be my resentment about the whole thing, but that’s still no excuse for what happened next. I slapped his hand away from me and stood up, cursing him. I told him that it was his fault that our parents were dead. If it wasn’t for him, our parents would still be alive, and we would be still living in the Marden Forest. I also called him a ‘cursed child’, revealing the truth about his birthdate.” He shuddered as he wiped his face with his hand. “I said so many terrible things to him that night, but the worst thing I ever told him was that I hated him and that I wished he was never born.
“As soon as I said those hateful words, I knew I messed up. The way Cor stared at me with those wide eyes; you would have thought I was some sort of monster. I tried to apologize, but he ran out of the room before I could stop him. The next thing I heard was the front door opening and slamming shut; I immediately knew that Cor has run out the house. Cursing, I dashed after him, but by the time I entered the street, he already disappeared out of sight. For the rest of the night, I wandered the streets to look for him. I shouted his name and went to all of his favorite spots with no luck. The whole time, I was berating myself for being a terrible brother and losing the only family member I have left in this world.
“Just when I was about to give up, I found him. He was sitting on a bench in the local park and staring at the stars. I was so relieved that he was okay that I ran up to him and hugged him. I told him that he shouldn’t have scared me like that and that I looked everywhere for him. Cor didn’t say anything at first, but finally, he asked me if it was really true that he was really cursed. I told him that it wasn’t true, but he reminded me of what I told him. I apologized, telling him that I said some stupid things because I was scared and I didn’t mean what I said. Then I told him that we’re family and that we need each other. I think he understood because he hugged me in return and asked if we can go home. As I carried him home, I promised myself that I would never say those terrible things ever again.”
“Ever since then, I tried my best to show him that I’ll be there for him. I know that he can be a handful and I let him get away with things sometimes, but… Whenever I remember all those hateful things I told him, I just feel guilty though I guess he still thinks I blame him for everything.” He sighed and looked at Priya straight in the eye. “Do you see why Corwin wants you to stay so badly? He worries that if you said no, it would be his fault again especially after what happened today with Lady Rasbeth.”
“I think I know what you mean. Corwin was worried about her afterward.” She blushed as she looked down at the sink. “To be honest, I enjoy living with both of you. I mean, you’re a family that I never have, but… There is something I have to figure out.”
That was when he decided to confront her. Taking a deep breath, he announced, “I know about your secret.”
She froze and looked at him, stunned. That definitely confirmed his suspicions. Finally, she ventured, “What secret?”
“I know that you’re one of the members.” Her apprehension transformed into confusion so he clarified, “The resistance, right? You’re a part of them; that’s why the soldiers are after you.”
Priya stared at him for a moment before she looked relieved. Shaking her head, she informed him, “I have no idea what you’re talking about, but I’m not a part of the resistance.”
“It’s all right. I won’t tell anyone and blow your cover,” he reassured her before he lowered his voice. “Just promise me that you won’t hurt Corwin. He really likes you, and I would hate to see him devastated if anything ever happens to you.”
She didn’t say anything at first, but finally, she said, “I can’t promise you that, but I can tell you that I will never do anything to hurt you on purpose.”
“I know that. You don’t seem to be that type of person.”
“You think so?” Priya gave him a small smile. “Just give me time to think about it, okay?”
“That’s fine. No pressure,” he reassured her.
“Thanks,” she said and cleared her throat. “Anyway, it’s been a long day; I think I’ll head to bed early.”
Noeth nodded. “Go ahead. I’ll take care of Corwin’s lessons tonight so get some rest.”
“All right. Well, good night,” she said as she headed upstairs.
“Good night,” he replied, watching her go. He listened as he heard her shut her bedroom door before he proceeded to follow her upstairs.
As soon as Alethea closed the door, she leaned against it and sighed. Today was a rough day, to say lightly! Nevertheless, she smiled. They want her to be a part of their family! It was a touching gesture that she never expected. A low growl ruined her reverie. “Don’t forget why you’re here,” Argue reminded her. “You’re not supposed to be here to play house.”
“I know, Argus. Jeez, you don’t to be a grouch about it,” she snapped back but smiled. “Although it’s nice just to relax for once.”
Ever since the Ilmarians became aware of the existence of the Dalenthi, she worked her butt off to get rid of the threat and hasn’t had a break since. Argus grumbled about it, but she pointed out to him that the sooner they prevent the spread of Dalenthi, the better. However, she had to admit that the Parasitic Duermon has a point – Kejuta hasn’t asked her if she wanted to rest for a bit, which would’ve been nice.
Speaking of which, she hasn’t heard from the Ilmarian of Fate after she received the order to spare the Lashival. Not that she didn’t mind, of course. Her current mission was a nice change of scenery, in her opinion. It was nice to “play house” as Argus put it. Doing chores and running errands were vastly different from chasing Dalenthi. Not to mention, this was the first time she felt this content for a long time. The last time she felt that way was when…
She squeezed her eyes shut and shook her head vigorously. No, she won’t dwell too much on the past! Her time with the Duermons was a lie; she only learned the truth after Kej forced Shintra to reverse the spell he placed on her. Nevertheless, there was a small part of her that missed that time. Well, a silver.
“Yeah, but don’t forget why you’re here,” he reminded her. “The way you’re acting, you took a liking to the Lashival. I don’t know how you’re supposed to kill him when the time comes if you’re feeling attached.”
“That’s not true! When the time comes, I’ll be ready,” she argued and exhaled deeply. “And while I’m waiting, we have another mission, remember?”
During her time with the Rassons, she continued her hunt for Dalenthi, which occurred late at night until the early morning. Walking toward the window, she opened it and scanned the area below. The streets were mostly quiet except for a few stragglers, which was good since she was about to head out.
“Just be careful, okay? These Ankans especially the soldiers are vicious,” Argus warned.
“I will,” she replied as she closes her eyes to alter her design into that of an elderly beggar. She had heeded Noeth’s warning and made sure her disguise was something inconspicuous. With her disguise completed, she leapt out the window and began her nightly hunt.
“Anyway, I grinned and bear it for their sakes. I knew they only did it because of Cor’s condition, and I wanted him to get better too. The next day, we packed up our things and headed to the capital. The move wasn’t that bad, and I got used to living in the city even though I can’t go around freely anymore. The best part was that the doctor figured out how to cure Corwin’s headaches so he was feeling much better. Everyone was in a good mood just like we’re back in the forest – until one day.
“We were about to sit down for dinner when Corwin suddenly collapsed on the floor. He was writhing in agony. Panicked, we immediately gave him his medicine, but after a few minutes, he was still in pain. That was when my parents decided they needed to get the doctor. They told me to keep an eye on Cor while they go out to retrieve him since they thought it would be risky to take Corwin with them. I agreed and watched them left the house. While I was waiting, I kept myself busy by tending to Cor, who seemed to be getting better. However, I started to get worried when I noticed that my parents hadn’t come back yet. I remembered thinking that it was getting dark and that they should’ve been back by now when I heard a knock on the door.
“I thought it was strange that my parents didn’t just open the door but thought it could be the doctor. I rushed over and opened the door to find Mrs. Birten and the police waiting outside. Confused, I asked them what’s wrong, and Mrs. Birten started crying her heart out. She began to blubber about something, but I couldn’t understand her at all. Finally, the officer interrupted her, telling her that he’ll tell me the news. Worried, I asked him what happened, and he informed me that my parents were killed in an accident. A carriage carrying a shipment of elemental stones careened out of control and crashed into a crowd of people, injuring many and killing a few. Unfortunately, my parents were ones of the fatalities. At first, I thought he was joking, but he confirmed it – my parents are dead. He asked me if I could come with him to the morgue to identify them. Stunned, I agreed, but then I remembered about Corwin. Luckily, Mrs. Birten said that she would keep a watch on him while I was away.
“On the way there, I was thinking was that there was no way my parents were dead and praying for good news. The officer must have been mistaken, and they were actually alive. Everything would be okay, and we could continue our lives as normal. Unfortunately, my wishful thinking was proven to be wrong. As soon as the coroner showed me the bodies, I knew it was true – my parents were dead and Corwin and I were now orphaned. After I confirmed their identities, I asked if I could head home since my brother was waiting for me. The officer said it was all right and offered to walk me home, but I declined. I told him that I’ll be fine and headed on my way before he could stop me.
“I barely remembered what happened afterward; to be honest, I was probably in a daze, but somehow I managed to get home. I was trembling all over and could barely walk when I entered the house. Mrs. Birten immediately rushed over and asked me if it was true that my parents were dead. I confirmed it, and she hugged me, telling me that she’s sorry about it. Numb, I asked her how Corwin was doing, and she told me that he was asleep. She then added that she hasn’t told Corwin the news yet. I thanked her since I felt obliged to be the one to deliver the bad news and told her that she should get some rest. She agreed and told me that if I need anything, I can stop by her place. I thanked her again as I watched her leave.”
“For the rest of the night, I just sat in the kitchen. I should have gone to bed, but my mind was in a whirl. All I was thinking was now that our parents were dead, what would happen to Cor and me? How were we going to make ends meet? Should I quit school and try to find a job? I was starting to blank out when I heard footsteps. I turned around to see Corwin at the kitchen door. He must have woken up because he was yawning and rubbing his eyes. Anyway, he asked me why I was still up, and I told him that I couldn’t sleep. Then he asked me if our parents were back yet. As soon as he asked that, I dreaded telling the news. I mean, how can you explain to a six years old that he won’t see his parents ever again?
“I didn’t answer him at first, but I knew I have to do it. After taking a deep breath, I explained to him that our parents won’t be back because they were in an accident. When he heard that, Corwin asked if they were dead, and I just nodded. He immediately asked the very same questions that were in my head. What will happen to us? Will we be put in an orphanage and separated? Stuff like that. I tried to answer his questions the best I can, but even I didn’t have all of the answers. I think he knew that I was stressed because he walked up to me and patted me on the back, telling me that everything was going to be all right.
Noeth took a deep breath as he readied himself for the hardest part of his story. “Well, I snapped. Maybe it’s because of the dawning realization that I am now the breadwinner or the fear of the unknown; it could be my resentment about the whole thing, but that’s still no excuse for what happened next. I slapped his hand away from me and stood up, cursing him. I told him that it was his fault that our parents were dead. If it wasn’t for him, our parents would still be alive, and we would be still living in the Marden Forest. I also called him a ‘cursed child’, revealing the truth about his birthdate.” He shuddered as he wiped his face with his hand. “I said so many terrible things to him that night, but the worst thing I ever told him was that I hated him and that I wished he was never born.
“As soon as I said those hateful words, I knew I messed up. The way Cor stared at me with those wide eyes; you would have thought I was some sort of monster. I tried to apologize, but he ran out of the room before I could stop him. The next thing I heard was the front door opening and slamming shut; I immediately knew that Cor has run out the house. Cursing, I dashed after him, but by the time I entered the street, he already disappeared out of sight. For the rest of the night, I wandered the streets to look for him. I shouted his name and went to all of his favorite spots with no luck. The whole time, I was berating myself for being a terrible brother and losing the only family member I have left in this world.
“Just when I was about to give up, I found him. He was sitting on a bench in the local park and staring at the stars. I was so relieved that he was okay that I ran up to him and hugged him. I told him that he shouldn’t have scared me like that and that I looked everywhere for him. Cor didn’t say anything at first, but finally, he asked me if it was really true that he was really cursed. I told him that it wasn’t true, but he reminded me of what I told him. I apologized, telling him that I said some stupid things because I was scared and I didn’t mean what I said. Then I told him that we’re family and that we need each other. I think he understood because he hugged me in return and asked if we can go home. As I carried him home, I promised myself that I would never say those terrible things ever again.”
“Ever since then, I tried my best to show him that I’ll be there for him. I know that he can be a handful and I let him get away with things sometimes, but… Whenever I remember all those hateful things I told him, I just feel guilty though I guess he still thinks I blame him for everything.” He sighed and looked at Priya straight in the eye. “Do you see why Corwin wants you to stay so badly? He worries that if you said no, it would be his fault again especially after what happened today with Lady Rasbeth.”
“I think I know what you mean. Corwin was worried about her afterward.” She blushed as she looked down at the sink. “To be honest, I enjoy living with both of you. I mean, you’re a family that I never have, but… There is something I have to figure out.”
That was when he decided to confront her. Taking a deep breath, he announced, “I know about your secret.”
She froze and looked at him, stunned. That definitely confirmed his suspicions. Finally, she ventured, “What secret?”
“I know that you’re one of the members.” Her apprehension transformed into confusion so he clarified, “The resistance, right? You’re a part of them; that’s why the soldiers are after you.”
Priya stared at him for a moment before she looked relieved. Shaking her head, she informed him, “I have no idea what you’re talking about, but I’m not a part of the resistance.”
“It’s all right. I won’t tell anyone and blow your cover,” he reassured her before he lowered his voice. “Just promise me that you won’t hurt Corwin. He really likes you, and I would hate to see him devastated if anything ever happens to you.”
She didn’t say anything at first, but finally, she said, “I can’t promise you that, but I can tell you that I will never do anything to hurt you on purpose.”
“I know that. You don’t seem to be that type of person.”
“You think so?” Priya gave him a small smile. “Just give me time to think about it, okay?”
“That’s fine. No pressure,” he reassured her.
“Thanks,” she said and cleared her throat. “Anyway, it’s been a long day; I think I’ll head to bed early.”
Noeth nodded. “Go ahead. I’ll take care of Corwin’s lessons tonight so get some rest.”
“All right. Well, good night,” she said as she headed upstairs.
“Good night,” he replied, watching her go. He listened as he heard her shut her bedroom door before he proceeded to follow her upstairs.
As soon as Alethea closed the door, she leaned against it and sighed. Today was a rough day, to say lightly! Nevertheless, she smiled. They want her to be a part of their family! It was a touching gesture that she never expected. A low growl ruined her reverie. “Don’t forget why you’re here,” Argue reminded her. “You’re not supposed to be here to play house.”
“I know, Argus. Jeez, you don’t to be a grouch about it,” she snapped back but smiled. “Although it’s nice just to relax for once.”
Ever since the Ilmarians became aware of the existence of the Dalenthi, she worked her butt off to get rid of the threat and hasn’t had a break since. Argus grumbled about it, but she pointed out to him that the sooner they prevent the spread of Dalenthi, the better. However, she had to admit that the Parasitic Duermon has a point – Kejuta hasn’t asked her if she wanted to rest for a bit, which would’ve been nice.
Speaking of which, she hasn’t heard from the Ilmarian of Fate after she received the order to spare the Lashival. Not that she didn’t mind, of course. Her current mission was a nice change of scenery, in her opinion. It was nice to “play house” as Argus put it. Doing chores and running errands were vastly different from chasing Dalenthi. Not to mention, this was the first time she felt this content for a long time. The last time she felt that way was when…
She squeezed her eyes shut and shook her head vigorously. No, she won’t dwell too much on the past! Her time with the Duermons was a lie; she only learned the truth after Kej forced Shintra to reverse the spell he placed on her. Nevertheless, there was a small part of her that missed that time. Well, a silver.
“Yeah, but don’t forget why you’re here,” he reminded her. “The way you’re acting, you took a liking to the Lashival. I don’t know how you’re supposed to kill him when the time comes if you’re feeling attached.”
“That’s not true! When the time comes, I’ll be ready,” she argued and exhaled deeply. “And while I’m waiting, we have another mission, remember?”
During her time with the Rassons, she continued her hunt for Dalenthi, which occurred late at night until the early morning. Walking toward the window, she opened it and scanned the area below. The streets were mostly quiet except for a few stragglers, which was good since she was about to head out.
“Just be careful, okay? These Ankans especially the soldiers are vicious,” Argus warned.
“I will,” she replied as she closes her eyes to alter her design into that of an elderly beggar. She had heeded Noeth’s warning and made sure her disguise was something inconspicuous. With her disguise completed, she leapt out the window and began her nightly hunt.