Prologue
1013 AE C
Ithadbeensnowingfor several days,bringinganendlesswinter.Thecypresstreesgroaned,burdenedbytheweightofthe iceandsnowthatclungtoeverybranch.Seekingrefugefromthesharpgustsofwind,Aidenleanedhisachingbodyagainst thecrackedwallsofthechurch Thefrigidairnearlyshookhimtohiscore,piercinghisbonesthroughhiswinterrobes Aiden shiftedslightlyagainstthewind,hisanklesbrushingagainsttheburgundyhelleboresthatlitteredtheicygrass.Withasigh,he lookedintothedrearyskyasifanticipatingananswerfromtheheavens
Positionedhighupintoweringbuildingsacrosstheway,ayoungchildsatpercheduponafrostedwindowsill.Withone handsupportinghisroundedchinandtheotherpressedgentlyagainsttheazure-stainedglass,hisfingertipstracedthepathsof the fallingsnowflakes As the powderydownfall intensified, the child’s fascinationseemed to be overcome withboredom, compellinghimto withdraw his finger. Atthatmoment, as their eyes unexpectedlymet, anunfamiliar chill coursed through Aiden
The waif had arrived weeks ago, clinging unrelentingly to his mother's side. Aiden found himself unable to shake the memoryofthatpeculiarnight,theeventsreplayinginhismind Theboy'smotherhadarrivedonthechurch’sdoorstepduring twilight.Aidenwasstruckbytheyoungwoman'sstunningbeautyfromthesecondhelaideyesonher,hisbreathcatchinginhis throat.Withoutaword,heusheredherinsidethechurch.Shetentativelyentered,clutchinghersonasifsomeonewouldriphim fromherembrace
It was difficult for Aiden to get a read on the pair, as neither the woman nor her son had uttered a single syllable throughoutthefirstnight So,AidenhadsummonedEnid,hishandmaiden,toensuretheircomfort AstheHighPriest,Aiden's commandswerelaw.
TheChurchofCaelestisservedasahavenforprayerandasanctuaryforthoseseekingsolace Thechurchwelcomedall who entered without judgment or hesitation. Many people lived in the residential buildings lining the church’s estate, and throughout their small community, curiosity brewed regarding the mysterious woman's arrival. Still, Aiden refrained from pressuringthewomanintospeakingandexpectedthesamefromeveryoneelse
Afterthreedays,shefinallysaidhername,Emeryn.Hernamewaslikehoneyonhislips.
“You can rest at ease here, Emeryn,” Aiden assured her “I may not know what you are seeking sanctuary from, but I promisethatwithinthesesacredwalls,youaresafe.”
Hercheeksblossomedlikearedrose.“WhatmakesyouthinkIamhidingfromsomething?”shewhispered.Emeryn’seyes instinctivelyshiftedtoherson.Thesmallchild,hardlyevensixyearsold,satatherfeet,playingwithasmall,raggedbearthat Enidhadkindlygivenhim.
There was no doubt that there was something strange about Emeryn's son When Aiden focused his Sight on him, he noticedadistortedAura,asifapresenceshieldedthechild.TheSightwasararegiftbestoweduponaselectfew.Itallowed itsbearerstoperceivebeyondtheordinary However,itwasonlywhentheboyfellillthatAidencouldseebeyondthestrange Aura.Then,henoticedtheviolethueplaguingthechild'sirises,ananomalyhehadneverencounteredbefore.
Evenso, Aidencouldn't discernanymalevolence inthe boy. Demons of great power could conceal themselves among humanswithcertainabilities,buttheboy'snatureseemedbenign.Asthechildrecoveredfromhisillness,hisAuraonceagain became distorted. Nevertheless, the High Priest couldn't shake the unsettling feeling that there was something truly extraordinaryabouthim
“Isittrue?”Emerynhadasked.“Trueevilcannotentertheholygroundsofthechurch?”
Aidenvividlyrecalled the sensationofher touchonthatfateful day His eyes softened, and he grabbed Emeryn's hands withoutthinking.Heheldhersoftpalmsagainsthisasifthey'dknowneachotherforyears.
“Yes.These walls were builtwithancientmaterials andholycrystalline thatIperformblessings onroutinely.True evil cannotenterwithoutextremedifficulty Andevenifyoucannottrustanyoneelseintheworld,Ihopesomeday youcantrust
me.”Andthiswastrue.Protectivejewelsandstonesadornedthewallswithmuralsdepictingscriptures,includingthetaleof AdamusandEden,thefirsttwohumans.
AidenhadoftenseenEmerynstrollingalongthemagnificentwallsofthechurch,her fingersbrushingpasttheembossed artwork. He couldn't help but be captivated by her, a compelling force drawing himcloser. Aiden had developed a deep affectionforthisyoungwoman,desperatelyhopingshewouldremainbyhissideindefinitely Herbeautywasunparalleledin Aiden'seyes,butitwasn'tjustherappearancethatensorcelledhim.Tendernessemanatedfromher,awarmththatcalmedhis restlesssoul Aidenwasconfidentthatherheartoverflowedwithgoodness,devoidofmaliciousintentions
Yet, Emerynkepther sonfar fromeveryone, and Aidencouldn'thelp butwonder why. He would toss and turnatnight, wonderinghow the child's eyes glistened like raw amethyst, as ifstardustglimmered inside him. How muchdid his mother know?Andwouldshetellhimthetruthifheasked?Aidenwasdrawntotheanswerstothepointofobsession
Wintersoonturnedtospring;thesnowmelted,andflowersfilledtheland.Colorsofsunsetbloomedallaroundtherolling hills, and sweetscents carried onthe afternoonbreeze Aiden's longingfor Emeryn's presence had notbeeninvain, for she finallyappeared before himonthe dayofthe SpringEquinoxcelebration. She burstinto his study, her cheeks full ofcolor. Peoniesandlilacsdecoratedherhair,carefullywovenintoadelicatebraidthatencircledherheadlikeacrown
“Iknow yousee it,” she said breathlessly. The smell ofcelebratorywine lingered onher breath. “Iknow youhave the Sight.Ihaveheardrumorsaboutyou.”
Aidentriedtohidehissurprisethatsheknewofhisgift
“Yes,”hesaidcalmly.“So,areyouawareofyourson?”
Emeryn'seyeswelledupwithtears,andsheslumpedintoachair
“Yes,”shesighed.
“Doyouknowwhatheis?”
“No.”
AsourtastefilledtheinsideofAiden'smouth.Shewaslying.Thislieappearedwell-hiddenandvitalforhertokeep.He couldfeeltheheavinessintheroomashereyesboreintohim
She stood up, stumbling slightly in her drunken state. “Let’s not speak of this ever again,” she snapped. Her intensity surprisedhim,ashehadnotevenwitnessedthissideofherbefore Hereyessoftened “Please”
ArealizationstruckAiden,reminiscentofhiscountlesshoursimmersedinhisstudies.Whatiftheboy'spresencewithin thechurchwasnotmerelyacoincidence?WhatifheheldthekeytoeverythingAidenhaddevotedhisentirelifepreparingfor? Thenotiondawneduponhimthattheboycouldbethelong-awaitedmissingpiece,theanswertounravelingthemysteriesthat hadconsumedhimforsolong.
"When the wind underneath was stolen, the sound of the choir carried a noiseless blunder, the righteous sin. 'Tis the carelessness of mankind, and brevity of human life."
BookOneofMetanoia
1025 A.E.C.
Hewasfinallyfree Thiswaswherehebelongedandwherehehadalwayslongedtobe Hisfingersgrazedtheclouds,and thewindkissedhisface.Thezephyrsgentlyruffledhishairashetouchedtheheavens.Hewaslaughing,andthestarswere laughingwithhim Andthere,inallitsglory,hesawitradiatingabovehim,thebrighteststarinthesky Hereachedouttograb itandclaimitashisown.Hewassoclose,butthemomenthisfingersbrushedacrossthelight,hishandfaltered.Hewassent hurtlingintothedepthsbelow.Deeper.Farther.Untilhecouldn’tseethelightanymore.Wasthisthelasttimehe’dseethesky? Whowascrying?Wasithim?Who…was…he?
Acoldvoicepiercedthroughhismind.
“Sedatehimagain”
No,hepleadedsilently.
Hedidn’twanttosleep
Asharp,searingsensationshotthroughhisarm,spreadingitsclawswithafamiliargrip.Hisbodyfroze,immobile,asif all connections between his mind and muscles had been severed. The darkness called, pulling himtoward its depths and threateningto consume himentirely Afleetingmomentofrecognitionflashed throughhis mind as ifhe had arrived exactly wherehewassupposedtobe.Itdidn’ttakelongforhimtosurrendertothedarknessasitenvelopedhimlikeanoldfriend.
“Wake up, ” avelvetyvoicespilledacrossthevoid Whispersfloodedtheabyssfromalldirections “You must wake up You are stronger than this. ”
Buthedidn’twanttowakeup Helongedtoremaininthedarkness,toletitconsumehisentireessenceuntilnothingwas left.Whatdiditmatter?Hedidn’tevenknowhisname,andtheskywasgone.Nothingmattered.
“Seren ”Thevoicetransformed,seethingwithanger,itstonesharpasglass.“Seren, wake up!”
That’sright Seren Thatwashisname
Theworldtransformedaslightfloodedin,blindingandoverwhelming.
“Welcomeback,Seren”
Butthisvoicewasdifferent.Therewasnothingwarmorcomfortingaboutit.Itwascondescendingandcruel. Throughthemurkyhazeofblackspots,Serenfoughttodiscerntheslenderfigureloomingabovehim Ittookeveryounce ofeffortto pierce throughthe shrouded veil ofdarkness. Then, like a fragile mirage, the manmaterialized before his eyes. Undertheunforgivingglowofthelights,theman’ssharp,angularfeaturescameintofocus,resemblingacunningfox.Hispale complexioncontrastedstarklyagainsttheartificialillumination,andhispiercinggazemetSeren’s
“Whoareyou?”Serencoughed.Adryraspescapedhisthroat,eachsyllablecrackingpainfully.
“Interesting,”themanmused.“Thisagain.”
About of rage surged withinSeren’s chest, like a feral creature awokenfroma deep slumber He instinctivelyjerked forward,onlytobeabruptlyhaltedbytheicygripofsteelbands.Painradiatedfromhiswristsandanklesashefoughtagainst therestraints
Howlonghadhebeenstrugglingagainstthem?
“Whatis this?”Serenasked,his voicequivering Hepulledagainsttherestraints again,feelingthecolor drainfromhis face.
“Goingsomewhere?”themansneered.
Seren’sheadwhippedaroundasrealizationdawnedonhim Heandthestrangemanwerenotalone White-coatedfigures, engrossed in their tasks, surrounded them. One woman caught his attention, her hand reaching for a beaker on the counter, causingitscontentstosurgeandfrothwithvibrant,fieryhues Scientists?Serencouldn’tbelievehiseyes,nordidhewantto
These scientists moved with eerie indifference, their impassive expressions devoid of surprise or curiosity, as they occasionallycastglancesinhisdirection ItwasasifSeren’spresence,boundandcaptive,wasaninconsequentialbackdrop totheirwork.
Thefoxlikemanmutteredincomprehensiblewordsunderhisbreathwhilehefocusedonaglowingbluedeviceinhishand aHolographus Serenshookhisheadasiftryingtoexpelthethought Heshouldn’tevenknowwhatthedevicewascalled, letalonebeinthesameroomwiththesepeople.
“Whatisthisplace?”Serenmanaged
Serenreceivedbrief,lazyglancesfromthecrowd,butayoungmanwithtousled,goldenlocksstoodout.Hisperplexed expression,etchingdeepfurrowsonhisforehead,betrayedananxiousenergythatmanifestedinrestlessfidgeting.Theireyes brieflylocked,buttheyoungman’sgazedartedawayinstantlyasifevadingSeren’sstarelikeacriminalfleeingthescene.
“WhereamI?”Serenrepeated.Thoughhealreadyknewtheanswer,hecouldn’thelpbutvoicethequestionaloud.There wasnomistakingit HewasintheGodlessCity Theevidencewassprawledbeforehim Countertopslinedthewalls;eachfloodedwithanassortmentoftesttubesandsyringes,theircontentsvaryingfromempty tosomecontainingremnantsofabluishliquid Somnia Ashivertraveleddownhisspineashesomehowrecalledthemadness thedrugcouldinduce.Wasthiswhatthesecrazedscientistshadbeensubjectinghimto?Wasthisevenreal?
Seren’seyesswiveledupwards,lockingontoasecuritycamerawithitslensesfixatedperfectlyonhim.Howmanyunseen watcherssatontheother side?Theabsenceofwindowsandthesingular steel door further reinforcedthenotionthatescape wasimpossible.Thisplacewasmeanttoconfinehim.Hisheartpoundedinhischestfrantically.
“Cansomeoneanswerme?”Serendemanded
The strange man tore his gaze awayfromhis Holographus, a glint of amusement dancing inhis eyes as he shifted his attentiontoSeren Thescreen'sprojectiontemporarilyappeared,providingSerenwithaglimpseoftheglowingwords
Subject Zero: Male, 18 years old.
“Areyouenjoyingyourself?”themansnapped.“Idon’thavetimeforgames.”
“Enjoyingmyself?”Serensputtered Andtothinkhewasaccusinghimofplayinggames Wasthismaninsane?
The young man, who had been discreetlystealing additional glances in their direction, hesitantly sat up fromhis seat. “Uhm, Doctor Lumen?” he stammered “Forgive me ifIamoverstepping, butwouldn’titmake sense ifhe’s havingamnesic sideeffects?It’samiraclehe’sstillalive.NobodyhaseversurvivedthisamountofSomniabefore.”
Serentensedatthewords So,theyhadbeenpumpinghimfullofdrugs Wasthatwhyhisheadfeltsoheavy?
The doctor remained fixed onSeren, notacknowledgingthatthe youngmanhad spokento him. “Seren, we have known eachotherforquitesometime.You’rehurtingmyfeelings,”Lumenpurred.“Iamnotinthemoodforyoursillylittleantics.”
“I’mnotplayinggames,”Serensaidthroughclenchedteeth Lumenlet out anexasperated sighas if the conversationwas boringhim. He leaned forward, his platinumhair falling around his yellow-rimmed glasses “You may have forgotten your sad, pathetic past,” he said “But I know you have not forgottenme.”
Serenflexedhishand,clenchingittightlyasifhecouldfeelLumen’sskinnyneckunderhisgrip Thetensionintheroom thickenedwitheverypassingsecond.
“Iguessyou’renotverymemorable,”Serenrepliedbitterly.
Lumenleanedforward,hisfacehoveringinchesfromSeren’s HispiercinggazelockedontoSeren,their breathsalmost mingling.“Wouldn’tthatbeconvenient?”Lumenwhispered.“Toforgetallyoursins?”Hisfingerstappedonthemetalsurface of Seren’s confinement “I think we both know the truth You and I aren’t much different” Astrand of Lumen’s long hair brushedagainstSeren’sbareshoulders.“Weren’tyoutheonewhocalledmea monster?”
FrustrationboiledoverwithinSeren,surgingthroughhisveinslikeanelectriccurrent.Withasudden,desperatelunge,he propelled his body forward. The gurney’s entire frame shuddered violently under the force of his attack, the metal legs screechinginprotestasitwobbledonthefloor.
Anunmovingpillar ofcalm,Lumen’s eyes,cool andcalculating,metSeren’s withafaint,knowingglint.Asubtlesmile curledatthecornersofhislips,revealingaconfidencethatseemedtosay,“Youcantry,butyouwon’tescape.”
“IwanttoknowwhyI’mintheGodlessCity,”Serenspat “Idon’tbelonghere”
Feigningafrown,Lumen’svoicedrippedwithsarcasm.“Oh,doyouthinkso?”Thedoctortookastepbackward,casually tuckinghishandsintohispockets “You’restartingtosoundlikeasnifflingchild”
Oncemore,Serenlungedforward,demanding,“Tellme!”
Theroomseemedtofreeze,scientistspausingathisoutburst
“Ah,thereitis,”Lumenremarked,hisvoicedrippingwithsatisfaction.“There’stheangerIwaswaitingfor.Iwasstarting to think you’d gone soft on me.” Lumen paused, savoring the moment, and took a deliberate step toward Seren. “Tell me something,boy,”hecontinued “Howdoesitfeel?Tobereducedtonothingmorethanaratinmylab?”
Seren’sstruggleintensified,hismusclesstrainingagainstthemetal cuffs.Beadsofsweatglistenedonhisforeheadashe writhedagainsthisrestraints
Lumen’s grin widened. “Oh, you’re quite the fighter, aren’t you?” he taunted. “But those cuffs won’t break, my dear SubjectZero”
“Getmeoutofhere,”Serengasped.“Idon’tbelonghere.”
“Isthatallyoucansay?”Lumenasked.“Besides,yousureyoudon’tbelonghere,Seren?I’dsayyoudeservetobehere. Thisisyourjudgment”
Serenfroze.Hefeltasifaknifehadtwistedintohim.Judgment.
“Imissourtalks,Seren,”Lumensaidsoftly “Butunfortunately,thosewillbecomingtoanend Youwillsoonbeofnouse tome.”Heturnedtotheyoungmanwhowas,yetagain,staringintheirdirection.“You,takethesubjectbacktotheCerulean Room.Iamdonefortheday.”
“William,”theyoungmansaidquietly. Lumenraisedhisthineyebrows.“Excuseme?”
“MynameisWilliam,”hesaidlouderthanbefore “Idon’trecallaskingforyourname,”thedoctorgrowled.“Justgetupanddowhatyou’vebeentold.”
Williamnoddedandrushedover,almoststumblingoverhisownfeet Thesoftcurvesofhisheart-shapedfacestoodout nexttoLumen,makingithardtobelieve hewas a doctor or evena grownman.He couldn’tbe mucholder thanSeren,who founditremarkablehowyoungWilliamappeared.
“Bymyself?”Williamaskednervously.“You’resureit’salright?Isn’thedangerous,sir?”Heclenchedhisjaw,theveins inhisthroatbulgingthroughhisgoldenskin.
Lumenrespondedwithanexasperatedroll ofhis eyes “You’ve beenuseless since youarrivedhere Justdoit” Witha dismissiveflick,hegrumbledandtossedasetofkeys intoWilliam’s hands.“Unchainthegurneyfromthegroundandwheel him He isn’tgoinganywhere, so there’s no need to lookso alarmed” Lumenwaved himoff, his impatience clear “Ihave other business to attend to.” The doctor quicklyturned onhis heels, headingfor the door. He slipped his keycard inside a metallicboxmountedonthewall.Thesmallredlightabovethedoorglowedgreen.
“Wait,”Williamblurtedout HeapproachedLumen,side-eyingSerenashediscreetlyleanedintowhisperinthedoctor’s ear.Lumen’spatiencewasclearlywornthin,andherolledhiseyesoncemore.Herespondedinahushedtone,tooquietfor Serentodecipher Andwithoutanotherword,Lumenvanishedbehindthecloseddoor Silently,SerenwatchedasWilliamapproachedhim,fumblingwiththekeys.HisuncertainblueeyesbrieflymetSeren’s. Serensquintedathim,hisbrowfurrowedinconfusion “Whyareyoulookingatmelikethat?”hemuttered Withoutresponding,Williamleaneddowntounchainthegurney.Serentriedtoraisehishead,butthethrobbingbehindhis eyesintensified.Withaquietgroan,hesqueezedthemshut.AsWilliamleanedtounchainthegurney,heloweredhisvoiceto hardlyevenawhisper “I’mafriend”
Thewordsoundedforeignwhenhespokeit.Friend?ThecornerofSeren’smouthtwitched,almostformingascoff,buthis energywasdrained Heclenchedhisteeth,thebittertasteofbilecreepinguphisthroatasWilliamwheeledthegurneyacross theroom.
Forcinghis eyes open, Serenheard the door swingingajar Theyhad entered anelongated corridor, dimlylitbydreary blueoverheadlights.Cameraswereperchedineverycornerandcrevice,theirunblinkingredeyesfocusedonthem,tracking their every move. The gurney’s wheels squealed against the cold tiles, its ominous echo ringing through the corridor. He inhaledshakily,tryingtoslowhispoundingheart
“Don’tfallasleep,Seren.Youneedtostayalertforme.Okay?”
Seren’seyelidsweretooheavy;hecouldbarelygrasptheoutlineofWilliam’sface
“Idon’tfeelgood,”hemanaged.Hismouthwasdry,andeverybreathofairfelttiresome.“Justletmesleep.”
Washeabouttobedeniedeventhesimplepleasureofsleeping?Serenflexedhisfingersinannoyanceatthethought.
“Quiet.Listentome.Youdon’tbelonghere,”Williamwhisperedhastily.
Williamkepthiseyesforward,hispacequickening.“Please,doyourbesttokeepawakeandwaitforme.You’reinbad
shape,Seren.Iwillgetyououtofherenomatterwhatittakes.”
The youngdoctor abruptlystopped wheelingSerenand inserted his keycard into a slotbeside a forebodingentrance. A resonantclicksoundedasheforcefullyswungthedooropen
“Welcomeback,”Williamsaidbitterly.“TotheCeruleanRoom.”Ashisvoicefilledthechamber,heleanedin,hisface hoveringoverSeren’s “Thecamerasarewatching,forgiveme”
He positioned the gurney upright and released the shackles without another word. Seren lurched forward, descending severalfeet Hiskneescollidedharshlywithsolidground,echoingwithaloud,agonizingthump
The heavydoor slammed shutbehind him, plunginghiminto absolute darkness. Struggling, Serenpushed himselfinto a sittingposition,emittingagroanofpain.Themusclesbetweenhisshouldersburnedwiththeeffort.Ashesteadiedhimself,a metallic clangechoed throughthe roomas his wristcontacted the floor Inthe darkness, he feltthe cold touchofa delicate braceletencirclinghiswrist.
Theroomwastooquiet Seren’sheartthumpedagainsthisribcage,andbloodroaredinhisears Itwasasthoughhisfear couldbeheard,vibratingwithinthedepthsofhisbones.Hesteppedback,collidingwiththecoldsurfaceofthedoor.
Theairsuddenlyfilledwiththesoundofrunningwater ItquicklypooledaroundSeren’sankles Hescrambledinthedark likearatconfinedinacage,searchingblindlyforanexit.Buttherewasnoescape.Thewatersurged,rapidlyfillingtheroom andpropellinghimfurtherintothechamber,sweepinghimfromthewalls.
This is it,Serenthought This is how I die
“When riches’reign meets its decline, royal blood shall cease to shine Awake the Sea of Souls, so grand, as death tightens its withering hand.” BookTwoofMetanoia
1014 A.E.C.
The rain outside was deafening; it echoed through the entire church Thunder rolled distantly in the hills, and the wind howledthroughthetrees.
“I can't concentrate withthe sound of that damnrain,” Aidencursed Wonderingif his failings were consequential, he watched the storm ravage the land. Aiden shook his head in frustration and curled his fingers in contempt. “Curse this downpour,”hegrowled.“Theriverswillfloodatthisrate.”
Thefrigid,dampweatherwassomethingAidendetested.Itcausedhisjointstoache,andhehadnoenergytoreservefor his pain. At thirty-five years old and burdened withnumerous responsibilities as a HighPriest, Aidenhad more important matterstoattendto Hecouldn’tbebotheredbysomethingastrivialastherain
Aidenpacedrelentlesslyinhiscrampedstudy,mumblinglikeamadman.Hishandstrembleduncontrollably,andhisblood pressure rose, butthatdidn'tcease his manic behavior Aiden's fingers skimmed into the chaotic stacks ofpaperworkonhis desk,theircrumplededgesgrazinghisskinashesiftedthroughthem.Withasuddenburstoffrustration,Aidenstrucktheoaken tablewitharesoundingthud.Paperstookflightinalldirections,floatingtothegroundlikeaflurryofautumnleaves.
“Idon'tunderstand!”Aidenshouted “TheremustbesomethingI'mmissing”Herubbedthecreaseonhisforehead Time was slippingawayfromAiden,muchlike grains ofsandthroughhis fingers.The Veil a once ethereal place that existedbetweentherealmoftheGodsandmortals wasweakening,andsotoowereitsbarriers Overthecenturies,theyhad thinned,andnowtheVeilwascollidingwiththehumanrealm,twoplanesofexistencethatwerenevermeanttomeld.
Inancienttimes,mortalshadusedtheVeilasasacredbridgebetweenthetworealms,aconduitthatallowedthemtoseek thecounselandblessingsoftheGods.Itwasacherishedlinkbetweenhumanityandthedivine,asourceofhopeandguidance that spanned the ages. But that golden age was now a distant memory, fading into the annals of history, for more than a millenniumhadpassedsincetheVeilhadheldsuchapureconnection
TheVeilhadfallenvictimtomalevolentforces,andapervasivedarknesshadtainteditspureessence.However,notallof it had succumbed to this corruption; within its intricate fabric remained sanctified pockets of purity where the divine connectionstill thrived. The whispers ofthe Devil's influence echoed throughoutthe world, disruptingthe once-harmonious balancebetweenrealms Yet,smallsacredpassagesendured,allowingPriestsandSaintstomaintaintheirconnectionwiththe Gods.
Aidencouldn't escape the icygrip ofdread that clutched at his soul, a reminder ofthe imminent danger. The Veil was continuouslycollidingwiththeir world, “opening” insmall bursts across the land And itwas gettingworse Itwas onlya matteroftimebeforetheworldsclashedcompletely,overlappingwitheachotherindefinitely.
Aidenhadgottenthenewsdaysago theVeilhadcompletelyovertakenthenorth Andforthefirsttimeinhistory,ithad permanently merged with their world. An entire country now served as a gateway into the other realm. The Kingdom of Andanovahadfallen,andnosurvivors,includingtheroyalfamily,wereleftbehind.Theentirelandhadbecomehellonearth, andthedemonshadconsumedthesoulsofeveryAndanovan.
Eventhenaturalorderofthecosmoshadbeguntounravel.Themoon'scycles,asteadyrhythmthatguidedtheirlives,had becomeerratic TheVeil'sopenings,oncepredictablepassages,now fluctuatedwildly,creatingamaddeninguncertaintythat hauntedAiden'severythought.EvensomeofhisfollowersoftheTrinityhadlosttheirfaithandturnedtotheGodlessCityin
fear.Aidenknewthetruth.EvenVavilon'stechnologicaladvanceswouldfallshortwhentheSunderingcametopass.
Afaintknockechoedthroughthestudy,startlingAiden.Hehastilybegantoloadhisarmswiththescatteredpapers,trying tofixhismess Thedoorcreakedopen,aneyepeeringincuriously “MayIcomein,Aiden?”
Emerynsteppedthroughthedoor,hercream-colorednightgownbrushingagainstherbareankles
“You'reuplate,”Aidensaid,tryingtosoundcalm.“Stilllosingsleep?”
Rosyblushfilledhercheeks,afeatureshecouldneverhide Shetwirledherfingersnervouslyinherloosecurls “Yes I wasthinkingaboutwhatyousaidtheotherday.Areyousureit'sagoodidea?”
Aiden'sshouldersrelaxed.Hesmiledgently,settingdowntheloosepapersinhishands.Hestrodeover toher,tenderly liftingherchin “Oh,Emeryn,ofcourseIam”Aidenranhishanddownthesmallofherback
Sheleanedinslightlyathistouch.“Butwhatwouldtheythinkofyou?”shemurmured.“Mysonisnotyours,andIdon't evenknowwhohisfatheris It's blasphemous”
Herestedafingeronherfulllips.“Idon’tcare,Emeryn.Wewillbediligenttokeepthistoourselves.Andevenifrumors are to spread, and judgmentis castuponme, Iambound to this churchbyblood Iamthe HighPriest Youhave nothingto worryabout.”
Aidenlovinglypressedhislipsagainsthers.Emerynmoanedinresponseashermouthpartedandherheadtilted.Thetaste ofcherriesintertwinedwithherbreathwhilethefaintscentofrosescascadedfromher Shepressedhersupplebodyagainst Aiden.Hepulledaway,stillcuppingherchin.“Andevenifyoulietome,I’llalwaysforgiveyou.”
Emeryn'seyeswidened,andshepushedhimaway “Whatdoyoumean?”shedemanded “Ihaveneverliedtoyou”
Immediatelyregrettinghis words, Aidenset a hand onher slender shoulder. “Forget what I said, Emeryn. Youshould rest.” Aidenturned his backto her, his heartheavy. He watched the relentless rainpeltagainstthe yellow roses outside his window,thepetalsbarelyclingingon.“Forgiveme.I'munderalotofpressurerightnow.”
Shesighedsoftly.“There'snothinganyonecouldhavedoneforAndanova,Aiden.Noneofuscouldhaveknownthatsucha tragedywascoming”
“Iknow,”Aidenmurmured.“Itwasdestinedtohappen.Itwastheirfate.Andifsomethingisnotdone,andtheprophecies are notfulfilled, thenitis our fate as well” Aidenturned to Emeryn, his expressionwild “And whatifthe answer is here, rightnow?Whatifheissleepingupinthechurchtower?”
Withherbackagainstthewall,shestudiedAiden'sfaceintheflickeringcandlelight.“Aiden,whatareyouimplying?”
Aiden'stremblingfingersseizedagreenleather-boundbookfromhisdeskinafrenzy.Hefumbledwiththegoldenclasp thathelditshut,themetaljinglingasitfellopen.Hiseyesdartedacrosstheagedpages,scanningfortherightwordstoshow her
“On the day of the Spring Equinox, Emeryn, you told me. You said you knew I could see it. And I can. His Aura is different,unlikeanythingI'veeverwitnessed TheKingdomofAndanova,therelentlesswhispersoftheAuguries,it'sallhere, rightbeforeoureyes.Don'tyousee?ItalignswiththescripturesandthepropheciestheSeershaveupheldforcenturies.The Sundering is fast approaching, closer with each passing day.” Aiden's voice wavered as he spoke. He ran a frantic hand throughhisdisheveledblackhair “Ijustwantyoutounderstand,Emeryn I'mterrifiedthatmywordsmightscareyouaway,but Ican'tkeepthistruthtomyselfanylonger.”
Hepointedtoasectioninthebook “Don’tyousee?”
Emeryntookadeepbreath.“Isthisthesolereasonyouletusstay?Becauseyoubelievehe'sconnectedtoallofthis?”
Startled,Aidenplacedthebookonthedeskandgentlyheldherhands “No,that'snottheonlyreason Ipromiseyou” Herexpressionremainedunreadable,herhandslaxinhisgrasp.
“Whoelsehaveyousharedthiswith?”Emerynaskedwithadrytone,closinghereyesbriefly.“Wemayhavetoleave.” Aidenlookedather,desperationinhisvoice “Why?What'spromptingyoutoleave?”
“Ican'texplain.Youwouldn'tunderstand.I'msorry,Aiden.”
“Icareforyou,Emeryn AndIcareforyoursonaswell Ihavenottoldanyoneofmysuspicions Iknowyoufeelasifyou mustkeepsecrets fromme,butyoucantrustme.Iwantyoutofeel safehere.That’s all thatreallymatters tome.But…”he trailedoff “IbelievehecouldbethekeytotheprophecythattheCaelestishavewaitedforcenturies Andifheis,itcannotbe ignored.”
“He’sjustaboy,”shechoked.
“Yes,”heagreed “Butoneday,hewillbeaman” HegotdownonhiskneeandwrappedhishandstighteraroundEmeryn’s.“Please,Em,youcantrustme.” Hergreeneyesmethis,andshesqueezedhishands
“I’vealwaysknownhewasdifferent,”Emerynwhispered.“ButwhereIamfrom,theydonottakedifferenceslightly.I’m sorryforthewayIreacted.”Hergazemettheground.“I’mscaredforhim.”Then,shefacedAidenwithhereyesfilledwith tears.“Iwanthimtogrowuplikeanyotherchild.Iwanthimtobehappyandhaveaplacehecancallhome.Ineedhimtobe safe.”Herexpressionwaspleading.“AndIneedyoutoguidehimandteachhim.Hewillneedafathertolookupto.”
“Ofcourse,”Aidenmanaged.
“Youmustn'ttellanyoneelseofthis,”Emerynbegged.“Iftheyfindoutwe’rehere,you'llneverseemeagain.” Aidenwantedtoaskwho they werebutheldhistongue Hischestachedatherwords;Aidendidn'twanttoloseher “Youhavemyword.”
Aidenhidhis discontentandconfusion Didshebelievehecouldliveanormal life?IfAidenwas correct,thentheboy needed to know. It was Aiden's duty to ensure that the child's destiny was carried out exactly as the prophecies intended. Doubtsnaggedathim,butdeepdown,Aidenremainedconvincedthatheheldsignificanceinshapingthefutureofhumanity
Yet, Aidenknew that Emerynkept secrets fromhim, secrets that could potentiallychange the course of her son's fate. Despite that,he hadnodesire topushEmeryn.He trustedher.No,he loved her. She was changingsomethinginside ofhim, givinghimanewfoundpurpose Heneverbelievedhecouldtrustinsomethingascompletelyashisfaithuntilher “Whydidyoucomehere,Emeryn?”Aidenasked.
She said nothingand walked over to the window Aidenstood behind her, the two ofthemquietas the rainpelted the glass.Thewindhaduprootedtherosesoutside,leavingnothingbutamessintheirwake.
“Because,”Emerynreplied “Ihadnowhereelsetogo”
Kneelinginprayer,AidenlookedupatthepaintingoftheMotherGoddess.Herwhitewingsfoldedelegantlyagainsther,and hersnow-kissedhairflowedgracefullydownherbody.
“MotherGoddess,pleasehearme Indeath,inlife,andinlight Iaskforyoutoguidemeandshowmethepath WhatcanI do?Haveyoureturned?Please…Imustknow.”
Aiden'skneesachedfromthemanyhourshehadspenthere,prayingrepeatedly,onlytobemetwithsilence Itreminded himofhisjourneytoMountEthelesmanyyearsago,whenhehadprayedfordaysonenduntiltheGodsfinallybestowedthe giftofmagicuponhim Excepthismagicwaned,fadingoutlikeaflickeringflame Frustrationwelledupwithinhim,andhe couldn'tcontainitanylonger.Withafiercecry,heslammedhisfistintotheunforgiving,coldstonefloor,feelinghiskneesgive wayunderneathhim.
“Iswear,yoursacrificewillnotbeinvain,Alernaea,”Aidenpromised Hemetthepurple-paintedeyesoftheGoddess “TheVeilwillbecleansedagain.Iwillseetoit.IfitisthelastthingIdo.”
“The Mother Goddess sacrificed herself for our sins during the Great War, hence the creation of the Veil. And what have we done to repay Her? The sins of humanity still plague the land, and because of this, the Godless City still stands ”
1025 AE C
tcouldhavebeenminutesorhours;thesoundlessabyssrevealednoclues.Serenhadnowaytomeasuretimewhilefloating atopthewaterintheCeruleanRoom
Therushingofhotbloodbeneathhisskin,theshallow,rattledpantsofair,andeventhepersistentacheofhisboneswerea cacophonyofsound inthe otherwise silentvoid. Serenwas alone, surrounded byemptiness, and he had feltthis before. He was sure ofit. All he had was the faintglimmer ofhope thathelp would come, and the answers he soughtwould be within reach.Williamhadcalledhimselfafriend,andSerenhadchosentobelievethat.Whatotherchoicedidhehave?
Atleasthisname,Seren,soundedfamiliar Itcomfortedhimtoknow hehadsomethinganchoringhim How longhadhe beenhere? Days? Months? Years? He desperatelywanted to remember. He willed his bodyto relax, attemptingto release everyounceoftensionthathadknottedhismuscles Thewateraroundhimsuddenlyfeltwarmerasheallowedhimselftodrift away.William'swarningfloodedhisbrainlikeadistresscall:“Don’tfallasleep,Seren.”
Hefocusedonthesoundofhisbeatingheartforseveralminutes.
Thump Thump Thump
“Irememberpain,”hewhispered,thewordsfillinghismouthlikesand.
Anditwasallheremembered hot searing,whitepain
Timecontinuouslytickedby.Sleepwastempting anescapefromwhateverthiswas.Howmuchlonger?UnlessWilliam hadbeenlying Serenthoughtofhow WilliamhadstumbledonhiswordswhiletalkingtoLumen,resemblingascaredchild Was he supposed to believe he was comingto his rescue? Whata joke. And to thinkhe'd almostbelieved him. Lumenand Williamweresuretobelaughingaboutit.Nobodywascoming.
Why was Seren even in the Godless City? The thought made his head spin as it echoed repeatedly This place was forbidden,andthosewhoresidedherehadturnedtheirbacksontheGodsforever.Whocoulddosuchathing?Andforwhat reason? A false sense of protection from the encroaching evil that threatened the world? Would he be denied the Gods' presencebecausehewashere?Hadtheyalreadyabandonedhim?Adistantpangpiercedhischest,promptinghimtosqueeze hiseyesshut
I’m sorry.
Ifonlyhecouldseethestars.Ifonlytheycouldhearhim.Maybetheydidn'tlistentoanyoneintheGodlessCity.Perhaps SerenwassolostandalonethatnoteventheGodswouldlistentohisprayers
Please, help me. Forgive me for whatever I may have done.
AloudrumbleechoedthroughtheCeruleanRoom Thewater sloshedagainsthisskinasthevibrationsgrew louder He felthisbodyslowlysinkingasthewaterlevelchanged.Beforelong,hisbackconnectedwiththehard,coldfloor.Inaninstant, thedimilluminationofbluelightsflickeredtolifeontheceiling.Heshieldedhimselfagainstthesuddenbrightness,tryingto easethethrobbingbehindhiseyes.
Theroomwasmuchsmallerthanhehadexpected,notmuchlargerthanthelabhehadbeeninbefore.Alargedrainsatin themiddleofthetiledfloor,clumpsofsaltclingingtoitsrim Summoningallhisstrength,Serenstaggeredtohisfeet Hisbody protested,causinghimtostumbleintothenearbywall.Anotherhorriblewaveofnauseawashedoverhim.
“Oh,Gods,” Serenmoaned.Leaningforward, he couldn'tholditanylonger andretched for several minutes, althoughit waspainfullyclearthathisstomachwasempty.Whenitwasfinallyover,hewipedhismouthandregainedcomposure.
Squintingthroughthe dimness, Seren's eyes locked onto a ladder that stretched upward, its rungs disappearingup to a distantplatform.Onthatelevatedplatform,asturdymetaldoorwasthelonemeansofescape.
“You’vegottobekiddingme,”hegrumbled
Carefully,hebeganhisascent,andwitheachagonizingstep,groansofpainescapedpastclenchedteeth.Jointsprotested loudly,yethepulledhimselfup,rungbyrung,untilhereachedthetop Collapsingatlast,hetookdeep,gaspingbreaths
Did that jerk really have to throw me off the ledge? Serenthought.
Then,asifhisthoughtshadbeenmuchtooloud,thedoorswungopenonitshinges.Williamstoodinthedoorwaywitha silver pistol inhis grip Beads of sweat clungto his disheveled hair, and he gasped for breath To Seren's astonishment, a broadsmilespreadacrossWilliam'sface.
“Good,”hepanted,hiseyestravelingtoSeren “You'reawake”Inacasualmotion,hetossedamedicalgowninSeren's direction.Serenlookeddownathimself,realizingthathewashalf-dressed.
“Youcameback,”Serensaidindisbelief
HadtheGodsansweredhisprayers?
Williamreached his hand out, helpingSerenonhis feet. “That's one thingyoushould know about me,” he laughed. “I always comeback”Heconcealedthegunwithinthewaistbandofhislabcoat “Here,letmehelp” SerensnatchedthegownawayasWilliamreachedforit.“Icandoitmyself,”hemuttered.Heleanedagainstthewallfor supportandslidthegownoverhishead
“Sorry,”Williamsaidnervously.
Serentriedtostandupstraight,grimacingattheugly,multicoloredgown.
“It's only temporary. Besides, I'd say you pull it off,” Williamoffered with a smile. He swung his arms over Seren’s shoulders, grabbingbothofhis hands. Before Serencould questionWilliam’s intentions, a pair ofcuffs snapped around his wrists
“Seriously?”Serenmanaged. Hewasstartingtodislikethisguy “Trustme,”Williamassured.“It’sallapartoftheplan.”
“Doesyourplaninvolvethrowingmesixfeetagain?”Serenaskedcoldly. “Not this time,” Williamsaid witha smirk. Withsurprisingstrength, the youngmaninterlocked his arms withSeren’s, effectivelysharingtheburdenofhisweight.“Wouldn'tyouknow?You'reaslightasafeather.”
Serenblinkedslowly Thiswasn’tthesametimidyoungmanhehadencounteredearlier “I'mnotfeelingsogreat,”Serenadmitted.“Idon'tknowhowfarI'llbeabletogo.” Williamnoddedemphatically “Iknow I'mgoingtohelpyou”
Hereachedintohispocketandpulledoutasyringe.Serenbarelyhadtimetoreactbeforetheneedlepiercedhisthigh,and asharpyelpinvoluntarilyescapedhislips.HeinstinctivelylungedatWilliam,slamminghimagainstthewall.Williamraised hishandsinagestureofsurrender
“Whatthehellwasthat?”Serenpanted.“Whatdidyoudotome?”
“Igaveyouadrenaline,”Williamsaidcalmly “Itwillhelpyou Youcantrustme,Seren Honestly”
Seren’sshouldersslacked,hearingthesincerityinhisvoice.Hereluctantlyreleasedhisgrip,hishandsfallingtohissides. “Right,”hesaid,hisvoicetrembling “Sorry”
“It’salright.Justfollowme,okay?”
SerenstumbledalongsideWilliamastheymadetheirwaydowntheendlesshallway.Eachstepfeltunsteadyandclumsy. Thesurveillancecamerasnolonger emittedtheir redglow,leavingtheminasilencebrokenonlybythefaintshuffleoftheir feetagainstthefeaturelessfloor.
“Theadrenalineshouldkickinanyminute,Seren Bearwithme”
“Whyareyoudoingthis?”Serenhuffedbesidehim.
“Justfocusonwalking Smalltalklater”
And Williamhad beenright. Seren’s heart beganpoundinginhis chest as if determined to breakfree. Beads of sweat formedonhisforehead.Theweaknessinhislegsdisappeared,replacedwithasurgeofvigor.Hisbloodcoursedthroughhis veins,carryingtorrentsofpureenergythroughouthisbody Empoweredbythisnewfoundstrength,hematchedWilliam'space, nolongerreliantonstumblingagainsthimforsupport.
“Thereyougo!”Williamshouted “Itwon'tbelonguntilthesecuritysystemisbackon,solet’sgetthehelloutofhere!”
Seren’slungsburned,yethisbodypulsedwithenoughenergytoignoreit.Thetwoofthempressedon,minutesblending togetheruntiltheyfinallyhaltedbeforeadoormarkingtheendofthehallway.William'shandsquiveredeversoslightlyashe reachedintohispocket,extractingasleekkeycardwiththename Lumen Yukimura.
“Howdidyoumanagetogetthat?”Serenasked,gaspingforbreath.“Didyouusethegun?”
WilliamchuckledwithatouchofnervousnessandflashedSerenamischievousgrin.“IpromiseIdidn'tresorttoviolence. I'mjustexceptionallyluckyandskilled.Ipickpocketedthatcreepandswappedmycardforhis.”
“So,you’renotadoctor,areyou?”Serenasked,hiswordscomingoutslowly “No,”Williamadmitted.“AndWilliamisn'tevenmyrealname.”
Seren’scuriositygotthebetterofhim “DoesLumenmakeeveryonecallhimbyhisfirstname?” William’slipscurvedupwards.“Yeah,he’squitethecharacter.Butthere’snotimetodelveintothatnow.Stayquiet,stick close,andfollowmylead I'llexplaineverythinglater”
Seren’s mysterious rescuer clicked the keycard inthe door, and itautomaticallyswungopen. Muchto his dismay, their journeytofreedomwasfarfromcomplete.Thenewfoundroombeforethemwasanexpansivelabyrinthofhallways,branching offinamyriadofdirections Thewallsandfloors,composedofcoldconcrete,seemedtoabsorbeveryhintofwarmthfrom theair.AchillcreptoverSeren’sskin,causinggoosebumpstoprickleonhisfairarms.
Intheheartoftheroomstoodasecurityguardcubicle,its glass windows reflectingtheharsh,fluorescentlights Seated nonchalantly,asolitaryfigureofstoutstaturereclined,engulfedinaplumeofsmokefromhiscigarette.
“Hiya Will!” bellowedthe guard “There was a nastystormabove ground,andthe securitysystemseems tobe down I heardthattheNovemthinkssomeonehijackedtheweathersimulator!Wouldyabelievethat?JacksonandCastroaregoingto checkoutthe surveillance roomto tryto fixthe cameras. Justour luck, consideringwe're short-staffed today. Whatare you and ”HelookedatSerenupanddown “Thatisn't Subject Zero,isit?”Hishandslowlywenttothegunonhissideashis eyesnarrowed.“What'reyoudoingwithhim,Will?IthoughtLumenmadeclearordersthathewasnevertoberemovedfrom theCeruleanRoom?”
Williamlaughed so confidently it almost seemed rehearsed. “Due to the outage, the security in the Cerulean Roomis completelydown. I’monspecial orders. Lumensent me to move himinto a more secure facility. Iamtakinghimto Floor Eleven.Theirbackupgeneratorsareupandrunning.”WillflashedLumen'skeycard.“Hegavemethisearliertodayincasethis happenedsoIcouldaccessthearea.”
Theman'sfacerelaxed HeeyedthecuffsonSeren’swrists “Oh,alright Hedoesn’tlooklikehe'llputupmuchofafight anyway.”
WilliamlookedatSerenwithagrimace “Oh,he’sbeenheavilysedated Idoubtheevenknowswhereheisrightnow”
Theguardtookadragoffhiscigarette.“Interesting.Helookslikenothingmorethanascrawnykidtome.Whyishesotop secret?”hehuffed.
Williamstiffened.“Iguessthat’swhytheycallitasecret.Icouldn’ttellyou.Anyway,I’llbeonmyway.Lumenwon’tbe happyifIdon’tlockhimuprightaway.”HegrippedSeren’sshouldertightlyandtookasharpleft.
Williamreleasedashakybreath “Luckyforme,heisn’tthebrightestandbelievesalmostanythingItellhim Weprobably only have a few minutes left,” he whispered nervously. “Once we reach the elevator, we better pray that the guards don’t realizethatsomeonesabotagedeverythinginthesurveillanceroom It’sbeenamiraclethatIevengotthisfarwithhow tight securityis.Everythingisgoingasplannedsofar.”Williamgrittedhisteethandrubbedthebackofhisneck.“Ifwedon’tget outofherefast…I’mdeadorworse.I’msurprisedmyaliaslastedthislong.”
“Dead?”Serenhissed “You’reriskingyourlifeforme?” Williamgrinned.“It’sexciting,isn’tit?You’remydamselindistress.”
SerenhopedWilliamnoticedhisannoyanceathischoiceofwords
Theyswiftlymovedoutofthesecurityguard’ssight,fleeingdownanotherlonghallwayuntil theyreachedasetoflarge steel doors Withouthesitation,WilliamswipedLumen’s keycard,andthedoors opened,revealingtheaustereinterior ofthe elevator.Theyrushedinside,andWilliamfranticallyswipedLumen’scardacrossthekeypad.
“Hey,”Serensaidnervously.“I’mnotsureheboughtyourstory.”
“What?” Williamlooked upwards, spottingthe guard fromearlier accompanied bytwo others headingtheir way “Oh, shit.”Heswipedthekeycardagain,butredlightbeamedacrossthebuttons.
“They’regettingcloser,”Serenwhisperedhurriedly “Stoprightthere,William!”bellowedtheguard.
William’shandwentforhiship,revealinghisweapon HeshovedthekeycardintoSeren’stremblinghand “Zero,seven, eight,five,two,zero,”hesaidrapidly.
“What?”Serenasked,bewildered.
Williamsteppedoutoftheelevator,hisfingerrestingonthetriggerofthegun
“Isthereaproblem?”hesaidpolitely “I’m doingwhatLumenaskedofme.”
Oneoftheguardsgrippedhispistolfirmly Seren’sheartraced Oh no.
But Williammoved faster than Seren ever imagined. He drew his weapon with lightning reflexes and aimed it at the approachingguard.
“Mustwealwaysresorttoviolence?”Williamchided.
Theguarddidn’thesitate.Agunshotrangout,andSereninstinctivelypressedhisbackagainstthewallasthebulletlodged itselfintotheelevator’sinterior.
Williamwasablur,hislegsmovingbeneathhimwithprecision Hisshotfounditsmark,hittingtheguard’shand Witha scream,theman’sgunclatteredtothefloor,crimsonsplatteringaroundhim.
“Youlittle !”
Serenhadnever seensomeonedodgebullets before,letalonefireagun.Either theywerehorrendous shots,or William wasincrediblyagile,oritwasacombinationofboth Williamsurgedtowardthem,hisgunsteadyinhishand “Thecode,Seren!”
Fumblingwiththekeycard,Serenswipeditagainandstartedtoinputthenumbers.Zero.Seven... “William,what’rethenumbers?”Serenshouted
As he glanced up, he saw Williamexpertly disarmthe guard, spinning around himand delivering a knee to the jaw. Williamwasn’ta doctor Andwhatever he was,he surelyknew how tofight Serenwincedas a guard’s fistconnectedwith William’sjaw,leavingaredmark.Withoutflinching,thebuttofhisgunstruckoneguard’sheadwhilehisfootconnectedwith the other’s abdomen Serengaped as he watched the two mencrumple inunison The remainingguard layonthe ground, as paleasaghost,unconsciousandclutchinghisbleedinghand.
WilliambeamedatSeren.“Didyoucatchthat?” he asked.“I’dsayIamheromaterial,wouldn’tyouagree?” He strode over,gentlytakingthecardfromSeren’shands “Iguessitslippedmymindthatyou’reabitforgetful I’lltakeitfromhere”
SerenwatchedWilliam’sfingersdanceacrosstheelevatorkeypad,eachbuttonpressaccompaniedbyasoftbeep.Seren's nailsdugintohispalms,andhishandsshookuncontrollablyathissides Hisleftfoottappedanimpatientrhythmagainstthe floor,astaccatobeatechoinghis racingheart.Eachsecondfeltlikeaneternityas theywaitedfor theelevator torespondto William’scodedcommand.
“Thatwasimpressive,”Serensputtered.Hiswordscameoutfasterthanheintended. Williamgrinned.“It’snormal,”hesaidsoftly.“Theadrenalinemakesyoujittery.Justremembertobreathe.”
“Yeah,”Serenmumbled “Okay”Theelevatordoorsfinallyclosed,anditstartedtoascend “Wheredidyoulearntofight likethat?”
“Onelearnsmanythingswhiletryingtosurvive,”helaughed “Besides,Imight’vebeenshowingoffalittle”Heraisedan eyebrow.
Serencouldn’thelp buttrace over his features. Brilliantblue eyes, a smile thatseemed to come naturally. Who exactly wasthisguy?
“So,whatisyourname?”Serenaskedcuriously.“Ifit’snotWilliam.”
The young man’s eyes twinkled with a hint of mischief “I thought you’d never ask It’s Jude” He pulled out a key, unlockingthe cuffs fromSeren’s wrists and allowingthemto fall to the floor. Then, he retrieved a minuscule tool fromhis pocket HeheldSeren’srightwrist,observingthesmallmetallicbracelet Heusedthecylindricaltooltopierceatinysloton thebracelet.Itclickedopen,fallingintoJude’sopenpalm.
“This is a tracker,” he told Seren. “Lumen tried to put one in you, but your body rejected all of them. If we’re separated ”Judesighed “Findsomeone’spockettoslipitinto Itshouldbuyyousometime” Theelevatorfinallycametoanabruptstop.
Jude raised his hand, signalingfor Serento remaininplace Withdeliberate steps, he exited the elevator, surveyingthe surroundingswithcaution.Ahead,therichmaroonwallswereadornedwithintricategoldenfiligree.Judesettledhiseyeson thelargepottedplantthatflankedtherightsideoftheelevator “Good.It’sstillhere.”
Withadeftmovement,Judeextendedhishandbehindtheplant,retrievingaleathersuitcasecarefullyconcealedinthelush foliage Swiftlyunlatchingit,hegrabbedtwofoldedstacksofclothes,accompaniedbyapairofmasquerademasks “Trustme,you’ll needthis,”Judeassured.HeplacedapileofclothinginSeren’shandsandthenpresentedhimwithan onyxmaskembellishedwithgoldenleaves Serenstooddumbfounded,holdingtheapparelinhishands
“Well,hurryup,”Judebreathed.“There’snoneedtobemodest.AndIdoubtwe’veseenthelastoftheguards.”
Seren’scheeksgrewhot,andheturnedaway Heremovedhisdampshortsandtheuglygown,pullingontheblackpants He gingerlydraped the matchingblazer over his slender shoulders, flinchingindiscomfort. Remarkably, everypiece fithim flawlessly.Withanexhale,heplacedthemaskoverhisface.Theadrenalinewasfading,anebbofpainreturning.
Judeslidthetracker intoSeren’s pocket “Justas before Staycloseandfollow mylead”As heranhis fingers through Seren’shair,smoothingoutthesaltwatertangles,Serenshothimadisapprovingglare.
“Areyoualwaysthistouchy-feely?”Serengrumbled
“Don’tmindme,”Judereplied,offeringafaintsmile.“Ijustdon’twanttodraw anyattentiontoourselves.Luckily,it’s stillabitwetfromyourwonderfulsoak.Lookingpresentableisabitimportanthere.”
Judereachedforhismask.
Avibrantlightstartedpulsatingabovetheelevator,capturingtheirattention.
“Damnit!”
Inasuddenmotion,JudeforcefullypushedSerenoutoftheelevator,causinghimtostumbleandfall.AsSerenstruggledto stand, his gaze met Jude’s intense, sapphire-blue eyes The world around them seemed to slow The moment passed in a heartbeat,theelevatordoorssnappingshutbeforeSerencouldevencatchhisbreath.
“Jude!”
Serendesperatelytriedtoprytheunyieldingdoorsopen,hisnailsscrapingthemetal.
“Canyouhearme?”Jude’svoiceremainedsurprisinglycalm “Yes,”Serenreplied. Heheldhisbreath.
“Listen,Seren ”
“HowwillIfindyou?”heinterrupted,paniccoursingthroughhim.
“Justgo!LookforagirlnamedMila Shecanhelpyou I’llfindyou Goleftdownthishallandoutthedoor UseLumen’s keycard.It’sinyourpocket.Getthehelloutofhere!”
Serenstumbled against the wall, sweat pouringdownhis forehead LeavingJude felt like a betrayal, but there was no otherchoice.
Hisshoeshitthecarpetbeforehecouldevenprocessanotherthought.Heraceddownthehallwaywithalltheenergyhe hadremaining Sureenough,adoorwasattheendoftheshorthallway,withanopeningforakeycard Hefumbled,lookingin hispockets,andfounditneatlytuckedintohisjacket.Quicklyswipingit,thegreenlightappeared,andthedoorclickedopen. Hepushedthedooropenslowly
Seren’seyeswidenedinaweatthesightbeforehim.Alarge,glorioustopazchandeliershinedabovehishead.Dazzling crystalsdroppedfromthecenteroftheroom,ignitingitwithawarmambiance.Beneathhisfeet,thefloorboastedastunning hueofburgundy.
“Wow,”hewhispered.
Theroombuzzedwithlifeasamultitudeofpeoplefilledthespace,theirvoicesminglinginalivelysymphony Laughter echoed alongside the clinking of glasses as patrons reveled in the pleasures of an open bar. The guests were adorned in resplendentattire,theiridentitiesconcealedbehindintricatemasks Opulentjewelryadornedthewomen’snecks,atestament totheirwealth.Ineverycorner,obsidiantabletopsdisplayedextravagantfeastsfeaturingsucculentmeats,freshlybakedbread, glisteningredapples,andanarrayofcheesesthatmadeSeren’smouthwater.
Acollective of musicians played unique instruments, strumminglivelymelodies throughout the entire building. Women danced provocativelyamidstthe tables, their bodies adorned solelybyanarrayofencrusted jewels ofvarious colors. Men laughedandbanteredwiththewomenastheyswayedtheirhipstothemusicforsheerentertainment
So,thiswastheGodlessCity.
“Areyoulost?”
Seren spun around, almost colliding with the girl standing behind him. Her curious eyes, the color of warmcaramel, peeredathimfrombehindthemysteriousdarkgreenmask.
“No,excuseme,”Serensaid,thewordsrushingout
He nonchalantlytrailed behind a passingwoman, hopingto blend inwiththe crowd. As she approached the bar, Seren keptacautious distance Shootingaglanceover his shoulder,hecouldfeel thegirl’s unwaveringeyes onhim Henervously playedwiththebracelettuckedawayinhispocket,knowinghistimewaslimited.Howwashegoingtogetoutofhere?
Ahandseizedhimfrombehind,andSerenspunaround
“You’reajumpylittlething,aren’tyou?”
Ablondewomangrippedhisarm,leaninginwithaflirtatioussmilebeneathherivorymask.
“No,willyou ”Serenbeganbutstoppedabruptly
“I’ve never seenyouhere before,” the womansaid, battingher hazel eyes. “Youlooklike you’re handsome under that mask”Sheleanedcloser,herwarmbreathcascadingacrosshim ArushofwarmthfloodedSeren’scheeksasshetuggedathis shirt.“I’mcurioustoseeyourentireface.Doyouwanttogetoutofhere?”
It could be his only chance He straightened his posture, adopting a more charming demeanor “That sounds quite tempting,”hereplied,hiswordsflowingfromhislipslikehoney.“Itdoesappearthatthisplaceismissingtheexcitementone mighthopefor.”
Thewomanswayed,averacioussmilespreadingacrossherface “First,onemoredrink”Sheheldupamanicuredhand tobeckonthebarkeep.
Serenputhishandoverhers “Whywasteanymoretime?”
The womangiggled, clearlyjustas surprised withhis confidence as he was. She stood up, and as she reached for her purse,hestumbledintoher,knockingittothefloor.
“I’msosorry.Imusthavehadtoomuchtodrink.Letmegrabthatforyou,”hesaid.
Heleaneddownwiththetrackertuckedinsidehispalm.Heexhaledasighofrelief,seeingherunfastenedpurse,allowing
himtoletthebraceletfallinside.
“Thankyou.MyObsidiannameisRema,bytheway,”shesaidashehandedherthepurse.
Thewomanguidedhimthroughthethrongsofpeople Theymaneuveredtheirwaypasttherowdykitchen,wherethesound ofsizzlingmeatandanimatedchatterinunfamiliarlanguagesfilledtheair.
WithRema’s hand clasped inhis, she led himtoward a backentrance Steppingout into the dimlylit alleyway, Seren couldn’t help but notice the teetering stack of boxes and piles of overflowing trash bags. The relentless downpour had transformedthealleyintoamurkypool
“Thisweatherisdisgusting,”Remaexclaimed.“I’dlovetospeaktowhoeverisinchargeoftheweathersimulator.”With agrin,shepressedherbodyagainsthis,urginghimtowardthedampenedwall.“Nomatter.I’llbetyouhaveagorgeoushome thatyoucouldtakemeto”
Serenbithischeek,desperatelywishingthewomanwouldgetawayfromhim.Asher handsfoundtheir wayaroundhis neck, he couldn’t take it anymore Seren pushed her away from himself, breathing heavily Rema’s eyes widened as she stumbledslightly,dustingherdressoff.
“Youcertainlyare jumpy,”shesaidthroughgrittedteeth I need to get out of here.
Serenfeltsweatdripdownhisback.“I ” “Hesurelooksalittleyoung,evenforyou”
Appearingfrombehindthestackofboxes,thegirlfromearliersteppedintoview,herarmscrossedoverherchest. Remawrinkledhernose “Kamilah,shouldn’tyoubeworking?”shescoffed Astheyoungwomandrewnearer,shesteppedintoaslenderbeamoflight.Withathoughtfulpurseofherlips,sheranher fingersthroughthedarkbrowncascadeofhairthatflowedoverhershoulders.
Serenrecognized the greenmask. She wore a blackdress withlongsleeves thatcovered everyinchofher besides her longlegsandthecurvesofhercollarbones.Eveninthedimglowofthestreetlamps,herwarmbrowncomplexionseemedto emit a subtle radiance akin to the soft caress of the afternoon sun Though her face remained veiled behind the mask, her breathtakingbeautywasundeniable.
RemacastSerenawitheringglancelikeshehadeffortlesslypluckedhisthoughtsfromtheair “No.Myshiftisover,”Kamilahreplied.Shetiltedherhead.“Whereisyourhusband,Rema?”
Rema’sbodywentrigid.“Iwasabouttomeethiminside,”sherepliedsourly,guiltilyglancinginSeren’sdirection.“I’m sorry.Imustgo.”
“Noneedtoapologize,”heassuredher.
Thank the Gods, Serenthought
Heputahandagainstthewall,tryingtosteadyhimselfasawaveofnauseahithim.Heblinkedprofusely,tryingtoshake offthesuddendizziness
Serenwatched Rema wave goodbye, her partinggesture less thanpolite. Kamilah, leaningagainst the wall, rolled her eyes.
“Sorry,loverboy She’smoretroublethanshe’sworth Herhusbandwouldkillyou” Serencollapsedontohiskneeswithagasp.Kamilahpeeredathim,concernevidentinhereyes. “Areyoualright?”sheasked “I’mfine,”Serengrufflyreplied.“Ijustneedtogetoutofhere.”
He attempted to stand up butfell backagainstthe wall, utterlyexhausted Kamilah’s eyes widened as she observed his condition.
“Youdidn’tdrinkanythingfromthatawfulwoman,didyou?”sheasked. Serenshookhishead “I’mokay” Kamilahextendedahandtowardhim.
“Letmewalkwithyou Thestormdieddown,butit’sstill nastyouthere Anditwouldn’tbesafewanderingthestreets likethat.”
“Icanwalk,”Serenprotested Buthisvoicewasshaky,andhefeltasifhisbodywouldgivewayanymoment Kamilahleaneddown,settingherhanduponhisarm.
“Don’ttouchme!”Seren’svoicerangout,andtheworldseemedtostill.Kamilahrecoiled,shockonherface.Itwasasif the pouringofthe rainseemed to intensify Serenbreathed heavily, digginghis fingers throughhis darkhair “I’msorry ” Serentookaquiveringbreath.“Everyonejustkeeps…touchingme.”
Kamilah’svoicewashushed “I’mnotsureyoucanwalkonyourown Letmehelpyou” Serenwastooexhaustedtoargue.
“I’mgoingtotakeyourmaskoff,okay?NobodyneedstoknowwecamefromtheObsidian.”Shereachedupandslidthe maskoffhisface.
Seren’seyestraveledtothedoor.HadJudegottenawaysafely?
“Thankyou,”Serenfinallysaid.“Sorry.”
KamilahwrappedherarmsaroundSeren,ensuringheremainedsteadyastheywalkeddownthealley.Hisheadspun,and heclosedhiseyes,focusingonfollowingthepaceofKamilah’sfootsteps “Wheredoyoulive?”sheasked.
Seren’s feetstopped beneathhim Theystood inthe middle ofa quietstreet, blue and purple lights appearingas blurry splotchesinhisvision.Thewindhowled,andtherainpoured,makinghisclothesheavyastheyclungtohisskin.
“Idon’tknow Idon’tknowwhereI’mgoing Idon’tknowwhereIam” Serendoubledover,hisfistpoundinghischestinadesperateattempttocatchhisbreath.Eachinhalationseemedtocome harderthanthelast.Kamilahhesitatedbeforesheplacedagentlehandonhisshoulder,offeringsilentcomfort.Hisgazelocked ontohers,yethisvisionremainedunfocused “JudetoldmetofindMila.”
Kamilah’seyeswidened,andshelookednervouslybehindhershoulder “Comequickly,”sheurged.“I’mstayingdownthestreetfromhere.”
The restofthe walkblurred intoa dreamlike haze As theycrossed the threshold intoKamilah’s home, itfeltas though realityandillusionintertwined.AndwhenSeren’sheadfinallymettheembraceofaplushpillow,theworlddissolvedaway.
“A king will rise from the burdens of the past, roses will bloom at long last, and all that is cast in shadow shall find the light. An era of peace, for all that is right.”
1005 A.E.C.
Thecherryblossomswereinfull bloom Pastel petalstwirledandpirouettedonthesoftbreeze,coveringthestreetslikea layerofpinksnow.Birdssangcheerfultunesfromthetreetopsastheybathedtheirwingsinthesunlight.
ThequainttownofBrimryhummedwithanunprecedentedvitality,energizedbythesplendidweather thathadgracedit aftermonthsofaharshwinter.Merchantslinedthestreetssellingamyriadofitems,includingrarespices,weaponry,clothing, andmedicinalherbsthatwerehardtocomebyunlessonetraveledtothenearestcity.
Emerynhadnomoneyofanymeans,andherstomachwasrumblingterriblyatthesmelloffoodfromthenearbyvendors. Sheclutchedherwaistatthethoughtofafreshmeal,feelingtheprotrusionofherribsunderherhand.
Withasigh,Emerynwatchedthechildrenfrolickinginthemeadow Sheworeabittersweetsmileastheirlaughtercarried intotheexpanseofthesky.Shetwiddledherfingers,pressingherhandsintothefabricofherpowderbluedressthathadgone unwashedfordays
Howmuchlongerwouldshehavetorun?
Emerynlookedupwardsintothesky,asorrowfulfeelingplaguingheroncemore.Apieceofherbelievedthatshedidnot deservehappiness She’dalwaysfelttormented,asifshewasbeingpunishedbytheGodsthemselves
She tenderlyrubbedher achingthighs,wincingas she grazedover deepbruises thathidbeneaththe layers ofher dress. Theyservedasapainfulreminderofheridentityasthewomanshehadbeenandwouldalwaysbe “MindifIsithere?”
His voice glided like velvet, sendinga shiver downEmeryn’s spine Lookingup, she found herselflockingeyes witha strikinglyhandsome stranger.She couldn’thelpbutsuppress a gaspathis beauty.Notonlythat,buthe was alsoimpeccably dressed,donningaflawlessmidnightbluesuitembroideredwithsilverthread.
“N-notatall,”shestammered “Goaheadandsit”
HiseyeslingeredonEmerynforamoment,buthequicklytorehispiercinggazeaway.
Emerynswallowed Sheclaspedontothefoldsofherdress,bracingherselfforaquickgetawayasthemansatbesideher Hermusclestensedasshewatchedhishandslideintohispocket.
“Iliketofeedthedoves,”themansaidsoftly Thistime,hisvoicewrappedaroundEmerynlikeawarmhug “Theyseem toenjoymycompanyinreturn.”
Hesmiledather,sendingherheartpounding.
Emeryntriedtorecallseeingdovesinthepark,butshehadonlyseensparrowsinthearea Shehadnointerestinarguing witha stranger andgave hima slow nodofacknowledgment.Yet,ina matter ofseconds,she watchedas a dove descended fromanearbytree,comingtorestattheman’sfeet Itsdeepbrowneyeswidenedathimasheopenedhisoutstretchedhand, overflowingwithbirdseed.Thebirdatefromhispalmwithouthesitation,cooingsoftly.
“Whyisitthatyoucomehere?”themanaskedsuddenly.“Ihaveseenyouhereforthelastseveraldays.” “Areyouspyingonme?”Emerynfoundherselfsaying.
The man chuckled nervously. “Oh no, not at all,” he assured. “I’mhere on some business-related matters, and I was passingthroughwhenInoticedyouhere”
She mulled over his suit. It wasn’t anything like the clothing she had seen the locals wearing. Surely, he wasn’t from
aroundhere.
“You’renotcomingfromVavilon,areyou?”shesaidslowly.
Heraisedhiseyebrows “WoulditbotheryouifIwas?Icanleaveifyou’renotcomfortable” Emeryn’sheartcontinuedpoundinginherchest.Shehadneverseenthemanandwonderedhowshe’dnevernoticedhim before Hecertainlywouldhavebeenimpossibletoforget Hewasthemostbeautifulmanshehadeverseen Perhapshewasharmless.
“No,”Emerynfinallysaid “Idon’tmind Andtoansweryourquestion,I’menjoyingthefreshairisall” Themansmiled,flashinghisperfectteeth.“Apartiallie,”herepliedmatter-of-factly.Helaughedathervexedexpression. “Idonotexpectyoutotellastrangerthetruth.It’sallright.”
Emerynballed up her fists “Itreallyis none ofyour business,” she declared “Ifyoumustknow, Icome here for many reasons.I’vejust…”Sheclenchedherstomach,glancingoverattheplayingchildren.“Ihavenowhereelsetogorightnow.”
Themaneyedthehandwrappedaroundherwaist “Oh,”hesaid “Iunderstandnow”
Emerynlookedaway,hopingtohidethereddeningofherface.
“Wouldyouliketofeedher?”themanasked
Emerynturnedbacktowardhim,noddingstifflybeforeextendingher hand.Thestranger gentlypouredbirdseedintoher openpalms.Doveseruptedunexpectedlyfrombehindher,theirpearlywingsunfurlingaroundher.Astheyencircledher,their softcoosfilledEmeryn’sears Sheletoutchildishgigglesasdovessurroundedher,sittingonherarmsandshoulders,fervently reachingforthebirdseedinherhands.
“Theylikeyou,”hemurmured “Theyarequitevainbirds”Helookedatadovethatwasperchedonhisfinger,stroking the top ofits head withhis tanned thumb. “They’re drawnto beauty.” He smiled again, lookingalmostsad. “IcannotsayI blamethem.”
Emerynsprinkledtheremainingbitsofbirdseedontheground.Thebirdsleapedoffherandproceededtopolishitoff. “MynameisEmeryn,”shetoldtheman.
“Nicetomeetyou,dearEmeryn,”hereplied “Ihavemanynames ButyoumaycallmeSamael” Sheblushed.
“Youdon’thavetobenervousaroundme,”Samaelsaidasifreadinghermind “Andplease,byallmeans,tellmetoleave ifImakeyouuncomfortableinanymanner.”
Itdidn’tbother EmerynthathehadcomefromtheGodlessCity;infact,for somereason,itmadeher feel moreatease. Sheleanedbackagainstthebench,sighingashertensemusclesfinallyrelaxed.
“Ohwell,”Emerynwhispered.“Ihonestlydolovethecompany.”
Samaelstoodup,extendingahand “Wouldyouliketowalkwithme?”heasked Shedidn’thesitate,acceptinghishandashepulledhertoherfeet.Shewalkedalongsidehim,exploringeveryaspectof his face His features were chiseled to perfection His eyes were a stunningamber color, almostgoldeninthe sunlightthat reflectedfromhisoliveskin.Despitehisyouthfulappearance,aprominentstreakofsilverelegantlyintertwinedwithhisdark hair.
“Youreyes,”shefoundherselfsaying “Theylooklikesunlight” Herubbedhischin.“IfIamnotmistaken,I’dsayyou’refawningovermerightnow,”Samaelteased. Emerynopenedhermouthinprotest,buthespoketooquickly “OrperhapsIamprojectingmyownfeelings.You’requitebeautiful,Emeryn.Iamsureyouhearthatoften.”
Emeryncouldn’thelpbutlaugh “Youthinkyou’reverycunning,don’tyou?” Hechuckled.“Well,don’tyou?” Sherolledhereyesplayfully.
“Tellmesomethingaboutyourself” “Likewhat?” “Whatdoyoulove?”
Emerynletoutalaugh.“That’saratherintimatequestiontoaskastranger.” “Ifindyoucanlearnalotaboutaperson,”Samaelanswered “Whenknowingwhatitistheyhavecometolove” Emerynfoundherselfsighing,defeated.“Idon’tknow.”Shelookedupwards,watchingadoveflyacrosstheafternoonsky. “Asillythingtosay,Isuppose,butIdolovethestars.”
Samaelstiffenedbesideher “Notsillyatall,”hemusedquietly Suddenly,hestoppedinhistracks,hisshoesgrindingtoahaltonthecobblestonepath.
“Wereyouawareyouwerebeingfollowed,MissEmeryn?”Samaelaskedwithhisvoicelowered Shefroze,grippingherdress.
“What whatdotheylooklike?”shemanagedtowhisper. Shedidn’tdarelook.
SamaelpressedhimselfclosetoEmeryn,hissmellfloodinghersenses.Hesmelledlikerain-kissedrosesandamidnight’s
summerbreath.
“Twomen.Theybothappeartobedressedlikeacolytesofsomesort.”
Shewhimpered “Myhusbandprobablysentthem”
Samael glanced downather hand, noticingthe lackofa ringonher finger. He lowered his head, his hotbreathonher neck
“Isheadangerousman?”heasked.
Emeryntrembled “He’sjust it’sthathe’s–”shetrippedoverherwords “HeisaLordfortheDisciplesofServius,andI ranfromhim.”
Samael clenched his jaw. “The Gods have a funny sense of humor,” he said wryly. He studied Emeryn’s face, almost lookingpained “Inmorethanoneway,itseems”
Emeryn’sbreathingquickened.TheDisciplesofServiusdidnotforgive,nordidtheylookkindlyuponthosewhodidnot adheretotherigidityoftheirmoralcode ServiuswasaGodofObedience,andEmerynhadbeenanythingbutobedient “Ican’tbelievehe’salreadyfoundme,”Emerynchoked. “Andyoudon’twanttogoback?”Samaelasked
“No,”Emerynuttered.“Idon’t.Inevergottochoosemyhusband.Theypickedmeoutofthatorphanagelikesomesortof prize.”
Younggirls were expected to wed the husbands handpicked for them Uponreachingmaturity, theywere dispatched to fulfillthetraditionalroleexpectedofwomen:oneofsubserviencetotheirspouses.Emeryn’sbeautyhadswayedmany,evenas anorphanlivingoftheServiusSanctum
Samael raised an eyebrow, looking genuinely curious. “It’s not often a Lord hunts down a runaway wife across the continent.”
“LordGlynisrichandpowerful.I’mexpectedtobeobedientandbearhisheirs,andI…Ican’t.”Sheplacedherhandon herstomach.“MylifeisconsideredmeaninglessifIfail,”shesaid.“Anditseemsmenofpoweralwaysgetwhattheywant.”
“Notalways,”Samaelmurmured
Emerynrecountedhow LordGlynhadchosenherquickly,hisvisitstotheorphanage,andhisdeclarationthatshewould behiswife,allwhiletheothergirlslookedoninenvy “It’sokay,”Emerynsaidindefeat.“Iwillacceptmydeath.”
“No,”growledSamael.“Youmight,butIwillnot.”
Shecouldnotreadhisfaceashestoodstone-cold.Whydidhebother?Emerynwasastranger. “Closeyoureyes,”hewhispered.“AndIwilltakeyoufarfromhere.”
So,Emerynobeyed Hisstrongarmwrappedaroundhertinywaist,andaflurryofdovescascadedaroundthem
1014 A.E.C.
Tears streamed down Emeryn’s face She wiped themaway, cursing at herself for even reminiscing over such things Emerynranherfingersoverherlips,rememberingAiden’skissfromtheothernight,apangofguiltfillingherchest.Whydid shefeelguilty?Whydidshefeelasthoughherheartstilldidnotbelongtoher?ShecouldseethewayAidenlookedather.He had even been picking bouquets of flowers every morning and setting themoutside her door. Aiden claimed they were to brightenuptheirdrearyroom,buttheyleftEmerynwithasenseofshame.Andsheoftenwonderedifheevergrewtiredofher lies
Emerynglancedoveratherson.Hewassoundasleeponacotbesideherwithhisarmssprawledabovehishead.Sunlight peekedthroughtheirbalconywindow,streamsoflightshiningacrosshissmallbody Hisdarkhairwasruffled,stickingupin severalunusualwaysfromhisrestlesssleep.Hewassoyoung,barelyofagetoevenbeginschool.
IfAidenknew theentiretruth,whatwouldbecomeofher son?All shewantedwastobeagoodmother andgivehima normallife,butshecouldhardlykeepafloat
Nightmarestormentedher,eachoneadisturbingtapestryofdeath,blood-soakedseas,andtheagonizingriversofherown suffering Twisted,disfiguredfacesjeeredatherinthedepthsofhersubconscious,amplifyingherdespair
ForEmeryn,thesehauntingdreamsheldafamiliargrip.Shewasnostrangertofleeing,toconcealingheranguishbehinda maskofsmiles However, this time was different This time, she had somethingprecious to safeguard, a responsibilitythat filledherwithfearmorepotentthananyshehadeverknown.Theweightofthesecretssheboreinsolitudegrewheavierwith eachpassingday.
The truth she had kept hidden fromthe boy’s father had been exposed by Aiden, intensifying Emeryn’s desperation to protecttheothertruthsheheldclose onethatheldthepowertoshapeherson’sentirefuture.Twodistinctsecrets,capableof alteringherson’slife,weighedheavilyonherconscience
Andshecouldn’tdenythetruth.Shemissedhisfatherterribly.Itwasahorrificacheinherheart.Emerynwantednothing morethantobebyhisside Shewasdaydreamingofthedaytheyhadmetlikealovesickchild
Leaningdowntokissherson’sforehead,Emerynlingeredoverhisface.Thefaceofhisfather.Shesworetodoeverything inherpowertoprotecthim,evenifitmeantlyingtohimfortherestofhislife
“He,
the Devil, was born from the malice of mankind Acreation more bitter than the fruit of the forbidden tree.”
ChroniclesoftheGods
1025 A.E.C.
Seren’s eyes metKamilah’s icygaze, and the tip ofanopalescentdagger pressed againsthis throat His heartraced as he realizedhishandsweresecurelybound.Kamilah’swarmbreathbrushedagainsthisfaceassheleanedcloser. “WhereisJude?”shedemanded,hertonefilledwithvenom AmixtureofconfusionandfearcloudedSeren’sthoughtsashestruggledtoformacoherentresponse. “Didyouseriouslytiemeup?”Serensaidindisbelief.
Sheclenchedherteeth,hergriptighteningonherweapon. “Answermyquestion,”shehissed.
“Idon’tknow,”Serenadmitted,hisvoicestrained “HetoldmetofindMilabeforewewereseparated Canyoujustuntie me?”
Kamilahreleasedthepressureonthedagger,itsglowbrieflycaptivatingSeren’sattention “Youcameoutofthebackroom.Isawyou.Iwanttoknowwhy,”shepressed.“Tellmenow.” “Untiemefirst,”Serengrowled.
“No”
Whodidshethinkshewas?Ifshehadtakenthetimetorestrainhim,thenshewould’veseenthathewasunarmed. “Fine,”hebreathed “IfItellyou,willyouletmego?” “Maybe.”
Seren released a slow breath, focusing on the empty wall behind Kamilah Memories of his amnesic awakening resurfaced, fillinghimwithvulnerability. He didn’tknow who he was, and admittingitmade himfeel exposed. Despite the uncertainty,hemaintainedasteadyvoice.WhatifshedecidedtoreturnhimtotheObsidian?Thethoughtsentashiverdown hisspine
AsSerenconcludedhisrecollection,aheavysilencefellbetweenthem.Kamilahcontinuedtopacetheroom,herbrows knittingtogether Whilewatchingher,Serencouldn’thelpbutnoticethechangeinherappearance Shewasnowwearingblack pantsandalong-sleevedshirt,nolongerdonningherdress.
Heanxiouslyawaitedherresponse,fidgetingagainsttherestraintsashisfingersgrewnumb “Allyouknow…isyourname?”sheuttered.
Serennoddedfirmly.“Andmyage.”Hesighed.“Iremember…mostthings.Ijustdon’tremember…me.Notmypast.Not whereIcamefrom Nothing”
“Strange,” Kamilahadmitted. “And to thinkthere’s anentire lab hiddenbeneaththe Obsidian, the place where the rich throw their endless parties No wonder Jude has been so secretive about the job he took” She massaged her temples, frustrationetchinglinesuponherface.“Thatidiot!Alwaysgettingintotrouble.InfiltratingaNovemlaboratory?Hashelosthis mind?”
Serensputteredindisbelief,hisjawclenched.“ThatwasaNovemlab?”
Kamilahturnedtohim.“Lumenis ontheCouncil,”shesaid.“Iwonder iftheAuguries know aboutthis.”Her hands ran throughherhair “Ohwow,thisismuchdeeperthanIimagined” “Whatwouldtheywantmefor?”Serenaskedinconfusion.
“That’sagreatquestion,”Kamilahsaid.HereyesnarrowedinSeren’sdirection.“You’retellingmeyoudon’tremember anythingatall?”
Serensqueezedhiseyesshut “Ialreadytoldyou Trustme,IwishIdid” Therehadbeennotimetoprocessanything.Theonethingheknewforcertainwasthathewasn’tfromtheGodlessCity. Therewasnowaytoexplainit Hehadthisdeep,unsettlingfeelingthathecouldn’thaveendeduphereonhisown Therewas justnoway.
ItwascommonknowledgethatthetechnologyandinnovationsofVaviloncontradictedtheprinciplesoftheGods Magic wasconsideredadivinegiftgrantedtoworthyPriestsandSaints,yettheGodlessCityproducedcreationsresemblingmagical abilities. Noteveryone was deemed deservingofsuchpowers. There was a reasonfor balance, and this citywas tryingto destroythat
The Godless CityofVavilonremained the sole place inAerithiumuntouched bytheocracy. Atits heart, the Council of Novemreignedsupreme,nineenigmaticfiguresresponsiblefordictatinglawsandgoverningthecity Eachofthethreesectors had a head of security overseeing untouchable armed forces, while a head scientist managed technological advancements withineachsector Yet,aboveall,loomedtheenigmaticpresenceofthethreeAuguries
TheidentityoftheAuguriesremainedamystery,concealedfromthepryingeyesofthepublic.Rumorssuggestedtheyhad achievedimmortalitythroughamergingoffleshandtechnology,butsuchtaleswereconsideredblasphemousacrosstheentire continent TheAuguriesinspiredfear,eveninacitythathadopenlyrejectedtheGods
Serenhatedtoadmitit,buthewasafraid.WhathadhedonetopiquetheNovem’sinterest?Whattroubledhimevenmore washisstrangefamiliaritywiththeGodlessCity howlonghadhebeenhere?
“Untiemenow,”Sereninsisted.“Ineedtogo.”
Kamilah’sdemeanorseemedtoshiftasshebrokeintoawarm,almostjovialsmile.“Likethat?”Shegesturedtowardhis tightlyboundwrists.Sheleaneddownandcutthecoarserope.“I’msorryfortherudeawakening,”Kamilahapologized.“My trustinpeopleislimited.”
“You’retellingme,”Serenmumbled “Andbesides youshouldn’ttrustanyoneinthisplace” Kamilah’sarmscrossedoverherchest.“Why?You’rehereintheGodlessCity,too,aren’tyou?”
Serengulped Hecouldn’targuewiththat “Wheredoyouplanongoingifyoudon’tevenknowwhereyou’refrom?”Kamilahscoffed.
“I’llfigureitout.”
Serenpushedhimselftohisfeet,buttheroomspun,darkspotscloudinghisvision.Hestumbledbackward,andKamilah wasthereinaninstant,herhandsteadyinghimasshehelpedhimsitbackdown.
“Youneed to restbefore yougo anywhere,” Kamilahinsisted, her hand brushinggentlyover his forehead “Youhave a fever.Youwon’tmakeithalfablockifyouleavenow.”
Heshookhishead “IneedtoleavebeforeIdragyouintothis WhoknowswhatbecameofJude,andit’sallmyfault”He methereyes.“Thankyouforyourhelp,Kamilah,butIshouldgo.”
All thisinformationhadleftSeren’sheadspinning.Whatonearthwasgoingon?Lumenhadevenreferredtohimashis “rat”inthelab Theunsettlingimagesofsyringesflashedthroughhismind Hefeltawaveofnauseawashoverhim “Hey.” Kamilahset a hand onhis shoulder. “It’s alright. Jude is clever, and he entrusted youto me. I’msure he had a backupplanifthingswentbadly Andplease,callmeMila,okay?”
“Yeah,”Serenmanaged.
Lumen’ssicksmileflashedthroughhishead Serencouldn’tstopthesuddenshakingofhishands
“What’syourname?”Milaaskedgently.
“Seren,”heanswered,hisvoicequivering.
“Stayput,Seren I’mgoingtogetyousomethingtodrink”
Seren’seyesdartedtothedoorasMilaapproachedthesmallsinkinherkitchennook.Hecouldmakearunforit.Seren attemptedtostand,buttheworldimmediatelywarped Damn it.
Milabustledabout,thesoundsofcabinetsanddrawersclangingintheroom Seren,defeated,observedhersparseliving area a worn-out couch, scattered books, and simple floral paintings on the wall. A luminous blue Holospectra box, reminiscentofthetechnologybeneaththeObsidian,hungonthewall.Acrossfromit,aclosetoverflowedwithclothes. Milareturned,offeringSerenaglassofwater,whichhegratefullyacceptedandemptiedinonegulp
“Let’swaitalittlelonger,”shesuggested,hervoicecalm.“IfJudehasn’treturnedbysundown,I’llstartworrying.Idon’t thinkyoushouldleaveyet I’msurehewillbeofhelptoyou” “Sundown?”heechoed.“HowlongwasIasleep?”
Anear-splittingalarmblared,shatteringthesilencewithinthebuilding.Simultaneously,theHolospectraonMila’s wall flickered to life, projecting an illuminated image onto the wall. The roombathed in the sudden glow as a poised woman materializedbeforethem,herexpressioneerilyindifferent.
“Attentionresidents ofSector 3. Adangerous criminal has escaped fromLazarekHigh-SecurityPrison. This fugitive is armedanddangerous.Residentsarewarnednottoapproachthetarget.Ifheisseen,pleasecontacttheVavilonPublicSecurity immediately Anycitizenwhoaidsthefugitivewillbefinedandimprisonedwithouttrial” Apicturewasshowcased,andwithinit,Seren’sownemeraldeyesstaredbackathimfromtheholographicdisplay.His raven-blackhairwasuntamedandfallingintohiseyes Theimagelingeredforamomentbeforevanishing “Ohwow,”Milawhispered.“That’simpossible.LazarekisinSector1.That’sseveralmilesfromhereandtheObsidian. Whywouldtheylie?”
Serenclenchedhisfists.“I’mleavingnow.”
Milacrossedherarmsoverherchest.“Andwherewillyougo?Thecitywillbecrawlingwithsecurity.Besides,youstill needtorestandwaitforJude You’reaswhiteasawinterfox Here”Shewalkedintoherkitchen,grabbingsomethingfrom thecabinet.Milasatnexttohimandforcedgrainybreadintohis hands.“This is bioengineeredtogiveyouenoughnutrients equivalenttoabalancedmealinjustafewbites Eatsome”
Hehesitantlytookabitefromthegrainybreadandthenpusheditbackintoherhands. “Alright,”Serenagreed Hehadafeelingshewasn’tgoingtogivehimmuchofachoiceatthispoint “I’llstayforabit, butifJudedoesn’tshowupanytimesoon,I’mleaving.Areyoualwaysthisbossy?”
Milasmirked.“Judewillbeback.Iknowit.Justtrytogetsomerest.I’msurehecanexplaineverything.”
Serenknew Milawasright Wherewouldhego?Hewantedtoscream Hehadhisnameandhisage And whatelse? Wherewashishome?Hisfamily?
Serencouldn’thelpbuthaveaflickerofdoubt Whatifsheturnedhiminthesecondhefellasleep?Wouldhegobackto beingstrappedtoatableandmockedbythatderangedscientist?WouldSerenforgethehadevenmether?Thethoughtsmade himshudder.
Who was he kidding, anyway? He probablywouldn’t get far before collapsing. And he didn’t know how to leave the GodlessCity.Itwasn’tasifheknewwherehewouldbeheading.
HeslumpedontoMila’scouch,hisbodyinstantlysurrenderingtocomfort Justafewminutesofrest Itwasallheneeded Serenclosedhiseyesanddriftedintoadreamlesssleep.
AthunderingknockjoltedSerenawake Thepoundingonthedoorshookthepictureshangingonthewalls Milastoodoverhim withher fingers pressed against her lips, signalinghimto stayquiet. She gestured toward the closet and silentlymouthed, “Hide.”
“Openup!”aninfuriatedmanshoutedfromoutsidethedoor.“YouareundertheordersoftheNovem.Weknowyou’rein there.”
“Justaminute!”Milasnapped “I’mnotdecent,jerk!”
“Youhavetwominutes,orwebreakthedoordown!”
Serenburiedhimselfdeepwithintherecessesofthecloset,desperatelycoveringhimselfwithMila’sgarments Itwasa less-than-idealhidingspot,buthehadnootherchoice.Throughtheslenderslitsoftheclosetdoor,hewasabletopeerout. Milastoodinfrontofthedoorforabriefperiod,hermovementsslightlyhesitant.Serenwatchedassheadjustedthelong blacksleevesofhertopasiftryingtoensuretheycoveredallofherskin.Then,withadeepbreath,sheopenedthedoor.
Threemenandtwowomenstoodattheentrance.TwoofthemendonnedthetraditionalarmoroftheGodlessEnforcers, boththeirfaceshiddenbehinddistinctivegoldenhelmsfashionedinthelikenessofeagles Largechromepauldronsprotruded fromtheirbroadshoulders,gleamingbrightlywithcopperandgoldenfeathers.
Serenimmediatelyrecognized the symbol ofthe Godless City: the chained sun Theywere boldlyemblazoned oneach breastoftheirrobustcuirass.
BothEnforcerswerearmedwithahandgunandanArc-Caster,afamedweapononlytheycouldacquire.Thecopperrods oftheir weapons crackled withunleashed energyevenwhile strapped to their hips Arc-Casters were knownfor unleashing arcs oflightingfromthebarrels aremarkablefeatthatgrantedthemlimitedcontrol over devastatingblasts.Theblasts had variouslevelsofpotency,themostdestructivebeingabletodisintegratefleshinstantly
SerenwasunfamiliarwiththearmorthattheotherthreeindividualsworebutassumeditwasfromLazarekprison.Unlike theEnforcers,theirattirewasmuchsimpler Thearmortheyworewasstarkblack,accompaniedbyablood-redcapedraping fromtheirshouldersmarkedbyanominousemblemofacrucifix.Theirhelmetsandgauntletsweretrimmedwithunforgiving spikes.
ThemaleintheLazarekarmorloomedoverMila,radiatingapresenceofdominance.Thoughhisfaceremainedobscured, hestillsentashiverthroughSeren.
“There’s beena rumor thatyouwere seenlastnightwiththe fugitive after leavingthe Obsidian, Kamilah” He said her name withrelish, savoringit onhis tongue. Serenimmediatelyrecognized his heavyOneriosanaccent. “We looked at your records upon our arrival, and there seemed to be some concerns You have no familial ties to anyone across the nearby countries.Youwouldn’thappentobealittleSanguinesadist,wouldyou?”
Milaflinched “Idon’tknowwhatyou’retalkingabout” “Ithinkyoudo.”
“Let’snotwasteanytime,”interruptedoneoftheLazarekwomen.“Ifyouareharboringafugitive,youwill bedetained andbroughttoLazarek Isuggestyoucooperatesothatwecanbeonourway”
ToSeren’shorror,Milasmirked.“Doyouthinkthatsuchathreatscaresme?”shesaid.
The male LazarekGuard laughed viciously “Afierylittle thing, aren’tyou? Butyouforgotone thing, foolishgirl” He leanedtowardMila.“I’llthrowyoustraighttothePits.We’llletthedemonshavetheirwaywithyou.Ashame,really,forsuch alovelygirl ”Heheldatressofherhairbetweenhisfingers
Milarecoiled,thecolordrainingfromherface.“Iamnotharboringafugitive,”shequicklyspat.Sheballedupherfists.“I helpedayoungmanattheObsidianlastnightwhowasclearlyintoxicated,andwewentourseparateways.”
The man roughly grabbed Mila’s arm, forcing her inches fromhis face “I don’t believe you,” the man hissed “Alie lingersonyourbreath.WhywouldItrustamonstrousgirllikeyou?”
As Mila triedtowriggle awayfromhis grasp,he grippedher tighter The spikes ofhis gauntlets pressedintoher flesh, causingherskintotear.Serenclenchedhisjaw,silentlyseething.
Let go of her, you pig
“You’retestingmypatience,”hesaidangrily.
“Getyourfilthyhandsoffofme,”Milaretorted.
Agrowlescapedthemanasheraisedhishand,preparingtostrikeMila Serenclutchedthehandleofthecloset “Don’tyouthinkthatisenough,Yakov?”
OneoftheEnforcerssteppedforward,extendingahandtoreleaseMilafromhisgrasp Sherubbedherarmwithascowl, mutteringcursesunderherbreath.
“She’sclearlylying!”Yakovroared.“Thepompouscitysoldierbelieveshe’sall-knowing.Me?Islavedayandnightin thatdamnedprison.IknowacriminalwhenIseeone.”
Thewomanathissideclearedherthroat.“HeisaLieutenant,directlyundertheNovem,soIwouldbemorecarefulwith yourwords,Yakov However,thelandlordwitnessedherbringingthefugitivehere Sheislying”
“Ineversaidshewasn’t,”theEnforcersaid.“But,insteadofemptythreats,wecansearchtheresidenceinstead.”
ThetwoLazarekwomenmaintainedsilence,mirroringthecomposureoftheEnforcers “Well,whatareyoustandingaroundfor?Searchthedamnbuildingnow!”demandedYakov.“Useless.”
Seren’sbreathcaughtinhisthroatasthetwowomenthrashedaroundMila’sapartmentwithouthesitation.Itwouldbea shortamountoftime before he was discovered There was nouse evenplanninganescape,consideringthe guards were all heavilyarmed.
“Lastplace,”saidYakov Hepointedtotheclosetwithasneer “Willyoudothehonors,LieutenantRome?”
TheEnforcer’snodwasresoluteashecautiouslyapproachedthedoor,hishandgrippingtheArc-Caster.Hiscompanion copiedhisactions,placingafirmhandonhisweapon
“IhadhopedIwaswrong,”Romesighed.Withannoyance,heextendedhishandintothecloset,grippingSeren’sshoulder andyankinghimout.TheroomfellsilentashesecuredSeren’shandsbehindhisbackwithsteelcuffs.
“Thisagain?”Serenmutteredunderhisbreath
“HeistobedeliveredstraighttotheNovemHall,”saidtheotherEnforcer.
Yakovscoffed “Somethingisveryfishyaboutthis TheNovemHall?SincewhendoprisonersofLazarekgothere?”He pacedaroundLieutenantRome.“Tell mewhyIhaveheardofeverycriminal tosetfootinmyprison,buthewaskeptsecret evenfromme? And lookathim!He is nothingbuta scrawnylittle brat,” Yakov said The guard pulled a curved knife out, runninghisfingerssoftlydowntheblade.Hereachedout,grabbedSeren’sshirt,andpulledhimtohisfeet.“Tryanything,andI willdigthisdeepintoyourgut.”
Seren’sheartdropped
“Enough, Yakov!” one of the women shouted. “We were told that he was to return unscathed. We are here to aid the EnforcersinretrievingthetargetandwereinstructedtotakeanyconspiratorstoLazarek Therestisnotourconcern” YakovreleasedSeren,nearlycausinghimtofallover.Hesnorted.“Fine,butIstillthinksomethingstrangeishappening here.”HelookedMilaupanddown.“Thelittleprincessismine.We’llhavefun, krysa. ”
Mila winced as he grabbed her, snappingcuffs around her wrists. “Courtesyofthe enforcers,” Yakov told her. “Tryto escapefromthesecuffs,andyouwillbeelectrocutedintounconsciousness.TimetogotoLazarek,prettygirl.”
