Archive for August 2015

Home Archive for August 2015

It was already noon. Despite being blind, Ciara could easily tell what time of day it was because of the heat caused by the ultra violet ray and the parched ground. The three of them mounted the steep hilltops, cutting past the field where the deer had died. Liam was extremely talkative, and Chase liked it. It seemed like the Crude Brothers were getting along very well.

“I got a bad feeling about getting back to Sputter Palace at this time of hour,” Liam groaned uneasily. “It makes me edgy, you know.”

“You’re not alone...I also feel the same thing, you know.” Chase said anxiously.

“Not you. Us,” Liam corrected, “We’re brothers, so we have to face the punishment together with Ciara.”

“I know, but I can’t help thinking what punishment Kyra will give us when we get back. I mean, there’s the Sparing Room and…” Chase counted.

“It’s positively the Sparring Room, I can feel it,” Liam said sternly.

By the time they arrived at the entrance grounds of Sputter Palace, Ciara could hear someone yelling from behind them. She stopped and listened as the piping voice became distinct.

“There they are! Call Kyra, now!” That voice belonged to Fatima, Liam’s nosy rival. “You guys are so much in trouble!”

“Why it’s my dear old nemesis, Fatima,” Liam cooed, “Did you miss me already?”

Fatima snorted, “Miss you? Yeah, right. It’s a good thing you’re here. Kyra is already furious, and you’re not going to like her punishment when she sees you guys showing up in the afternoon. “

“Is it really that bad?” Chase asked anxiously.

“Of course! Kyra made a new punishment room a few days ago—not the easy-going spars and heavy-lifts—but a real gory punishment!” Fatima made a shrilly laugh. Ciara’s stomach twisted into a knot. “I hope you are beaten bloody, Liam. I can’t wait to see you covered in bruises, along with your crippled brother.”

“Pray that you will,” Liam said nonchalantly and turned around. “Come on, let’s ignore her. She’s just wasting her time with us.”

“What did you say, Liam!” Ciara heard the squeezing of cloth and the tapping of their footsteps. Ciara’s brain began to calculate itself. The grip is not too tight, which means Fatima is seizing Liam’s cloth. She must be fisting Liam’s collar up.

“Hey, hey, stop it you two,” Chase yelled, “Now’s not the time to fight.”

“Really, if you wanted to see me bloody, you should reserve it for the punishment,” Liam taunted, “You can’t even throw a strong punch at me. You’re just a girl who wanted my attention because you wanted to surpass me," Liam cooed, "Sad to say, you will never beat me in a million years, Fatima.”

“Shut u—”

Ciara wasn’t aware of what she did. She threw herself against Liam’s rival and shoved Fatima to the ground. A deep set of anger and hatred coursed through Ciara’s veins. “We’re already tired, Fatima. Please stay away from Liam, if you don’t want to get hurt.”

The Crude Brothers were flabbergasted by Ciara’s marvelous act.

“Tsk,” Fatima hissed, “Trying to act like a tough guy, huh, Blind Candidate?” There were clamorous footsteps sweeping on the ground. Fatima must be lunging toward me. “Do you want a piece of m—?”

Ciara braced for the punch and shut her eyes.

Snap!

Ciara opened her eyes and sensed a person in front of her. What happened? And then she heard the clanging of metal and wood thumping on the ground. There was only one person who had that wooden leg. It was Chase.

“If you want to hurt Ciara, you have to get pass me.” Chase must have blocked Fatima’s attack and was now shielding Ciara. Judging by the sound of squeezing of bones, small pants, and the pressure circulating around the knuckles, Chase must be gripping Fatima’s fist, stopping her punch.

“He’s right,” Liam joined. Now there were two auras in front of her. The Crude brothers were facing against Fatima. “If you lay one finger on my little brother, you’re seriously going to die by my hand. Trust me.”

“Don’t threaten me, Liam!” Fatima shouted, “I’m not afraid of you. I’m a Vixen, and Vixens are warriors!”

“Well, start thinking now because if lose myself, I won’t be able to spare your life,” Liam said angrily. “Chase, Ciara. Get away from me, or else I’ll accidentally kill you guys too.”

Accidentally kill? Ciara thought.

“No, Liam!” Ciara heard the stretching of cloth and more shuffling sounds sweeping the ground. Chase must be blocking Liam. Ciara thought. Or more like holding him off. Chase shouted, “Fatima, please do what I say. Retreat now and don’t make Liam mad!”

“Bu—“

“GO!”

After a few moments, Ciara heard Fatima retreating. “Fine! But don’t forget this, Blind Candidate," Fatima said, "Someday I’m going to test your strength and see if you’re really the Candidate. Don’t forget that!”

Then Fatima was gone.

“Let go of me Chase!” Liam groaned and Ciara sensed Chase releasing his older brother. “Geez, Don’t do that again, Chase, If you get hurt, I don’t know if I can…handle myself.” Ciara sensed two bodies separating. The Crude brothers must be walking across her opposite sides. Chase on her left, because of the wooden taps, and Liam on her right.

“Sorry, but you really need to get hold of yourself. What if you really killed Fatima?” Chase said, “How should we tell everyone that?”

“I don’t know—just forget it, okay? We have a punishment to go through,” Liam said angrily.

“But what about the turkey?” Chase asked.

Liam stopped. “Yeah, I forgot about it. Chase, you go first. I’ll catch up with you later,” he turned to Ciara, “Could you help me with this, Ciara?”

“Oh, okay…” Ciara’s heart stopped a beat.

“I’ll just be in the center of the hallway if you get lost. Beside the flower vase, okay?” Chase muttered, his footsteps disappearing.

“Okay,” Liam said, and waited until Chase was completely gone from his sight.

“Ciara,” Liam’s voice was sharp. He must be standing in front of me, Ciara thought. She could feel his hot breath tickling her skin. He must be really close to her. Her heart pounded louder in her chest. Then she felt his long, slender fingers brushing the side of her cheek. What is he going to do? Ciara thought.

“Thank you,” That was the only thing Liam said. Slowly, Ciara felt his fingers sliding off her cheek, disappearing, and heard his footsteps moving far away.

Liam was gone.

Ciara shook her head, and slapped her cheeks to keep herself awake. She thought she was going to get scolded by the arrogant Liam, but “thank you” was an odd thing to say. Especially Liam hated her because she was disabled. But maybe that was going to change now...

“What am I going to do with you three, huh?” Kyra’s voice was the first thing Ciara heard when she entered Kyra’s office. It wasn’t hard to reach her destination. She just had to follow Liam’s body movement until he stopped in front of a wall, swinging the door open.

Now the three of them were inside Kyra’s office. Three auras were standing in front of her vision. Ciara wondered why she could see the auras of a person. Her vision was supposed to be pitch black, but now…she could see faint outlines of the objects around her. Has my vision enhanced? Ciara thought.

“Sorry, Kyra.” Chase muttered, and Ciara could sense him slightly trembling.

“Please forgive us,” Liam said.

“Never ask for forgiveness. That’s one lesson I’m going to teach you three, especially you, Liam.” Kyra snapped. “The punishment is for your own good. Learn how to accept your fault and the reason behind it. Do you understand?”

“Yes,” the three of them said together.

“Now, explain,” Kyra commanded, “And why is the Blind Candidate with you?”

“I asked her to join our hunt, so we could pay Ms. Stupey’s wreckage. Please don’t let her take the punishment. I will take full responsibility for it.” Liam firmly said.

“I don’t take orders from everyone, Liam!” Kyra shouted, “Like it or not, all three of you shall take the punishment, but…” Kyra said, “I will start with Blind Candidate first.”

Ciara’s heart pounded. What is the punishment they are talking about?

“Kyr—” Liam began.

“That is my final word! No excuses, you hear me?" Kyra snapped, “In this world, you must think only for yourselves. Nothing more. Remember that.”

Silence.

“Now then, since everything is clear, let us discuss this further in the new Arena Round.” Kyra said, and Ciara heard her hushed footsteps pounding the pavement, the sound of her hair waving. Kyra must be walking toward the door because her outline is getting farther. Ciara analyzed. “I supposed you know what the Arena Round is?”

“Yes,” Liam said.

“Good, let us move on,” Kyra said and the three of them exited her office.

Liam whispered to Chase, “Chase. Do you remember the time when Finnegan nearly died because of the punishment he took at the Arena Round?”

“I think so. That was four years ago,” Chase kept his voice low, “But after that incident, Kyra decided to close that room and move the punishment to sparing.”

“Unfortunately, it seems like Kyra is changing her mind. With Ciara here, she’s going to open the Arena Round again.” Liam said distastefully, “Ugh, wish me luck.”

“I’m more worried about Ciara,” Chase said anxiously. Ciara could sense Kyra walking ahead of them. “And what’s worse is Shell. That’s the scary part. Shell doesn’t have mercy to anyone, even to herself.”

“The Silent Dagger, huh," Liam said, unsure, "Don’t worry about her, Chase. I’m sure Ciara can handle it,”

“Why, what’s the Arena Round?” Ciara asked.

Liam grunted. “The Arena Round is a brutal match between the Lower Ranks and the Higher Ranks. It is also known as the Punishment Room. Four years ago, Kyra created the Punishment Room for atrocious fights and crowd enjoyments. One of her favorite pick is Shell, also known as the Silent Dagger," Liam continued, "Since many Vixens break a lot of curfews, Kyra uses Shell to show the Vixens how ruthless her ruling system is. Then after a certain incident, our friend, Finnigan nearly died from the Punishment Room, and so to Kyra’s embarrassment, she closed the Punishment Room and avoided any beatings," Liam continued, "The match could take a long time to finish, and it will not end until one of you surrenders.”

“So why is she reopening the Punishment Room?” Ciara asked.

“I don’t know,” Liam said, “Kyra easily gets bored when there is no excitement going on inside Sputter Palace. Maybe she wanted to show the Vixens the stringent regulations around here?”

“Or…” Chase gulped, “Maybe she wanted to show everyone what Ciara can do,”

Fear clutched her heart with cold fingers.

“If that’s her purpose, then here…” Something was poking her from behind. She clasped the long rod on her hand. The fishing rod. Liam continued, “I sneaked past your room before bumping into Kyra. Good luck and one advice: Don’t pity them.”

Ciara’s heart throbbed. Don’t pity them. Ciara understood what Liam meant. My enemies are egocentric people.

When Liam and Chase stopped beside her, she already knew that they arrived at the Arena Round. She heard the click of the doorknob, and the squeaking of the door. Here it goes.

They entered the Arena Round, and the first thing Ciara smelled was dried blood filling the air, making her stomach churn in disgust. Ciara hated blood, because it painfully reminded her of the tragic of Metric. Relying on her hearing senses, Ciara heard the blast of voices, the creaking of wood, and the wind circulating inside the room, as if she was standing in a high place. For the first few minutes, she thought deeply, and then she knew the answer. There are clamorous voices…thousands of people sitting in some kind of chair...Ciara thought. It's like there's a thin narrow row…with dusty curtains…and flickering lights. Ciara guessed. The Arena Round is an amphitheater.

Sweat dripped from her forehead. Now she understood what Liam meant about not pitying them.

“Welcome, my children, to the Arena Round!” Kyra’s voice boomed. Everyone cheered. Ciara gulped. Why was she the first one to fight?

Kyra said to them, “Follow me.”

The three of them followed Kyra, and Ciara paused when she heard their footsteps going down. Stairs. Ciara carefully took one step at a time, ignoring the fear pounding in her heart. Then she noticed a person standing beside her, since the air breezing through her stopped.

“Don’t push yourself. Here, hold my arm.” Liam scolded her, and Ciara blushed, slowly entangling her right hand on his elbow. He continued, “How cute, you’re blushing. Well, you can’t blame everyone for staring at us—I mean—you’re the Candidate for Pete’s Sake!" Liam teased, "You're now a celebrity, and me? I’m the handsome thief.”

Ciara smiled weakly, trying to hide the fear in her expression.

“Liam, I appreciate you trying to make Ciara feel better, but this is the Arena Round we’re talking about,” Ciara felt Chase’s fingers slipping on her free hand.

“I know. Just trying to give a little fun, you know?” Liam said. As they climbed down the stairs, Ciara could feel a heavy presence around her surroundings. She was passing a room filled with people, which was a great advantage for her four senses.

“This is serious," Chase said to Ciara, “We're sorry we dragged you into this, Ciara.”

Ciara shook her head. “Don’t worry about me. We’re a team, and teams stick together, right?”

Liam tensed beside her. “Yeah…team…”

When Ciara’s foot touched the lowest ground, she looked up and caught a glimpse of the faint outline towering above her. A wall that is 45 centimeters, surrounded by rings…A boxing round? Ciara analyzed. The Crude brothers carefully took Ciara to the podium, while another figure joined them on stage.

“My children. Welcome back to the Arena Round!” It was Kyra, and judging by the loud echo of her voice, she must be using a microphone. “The Arena Round has been opened because of a very special occasion,” she continued, “And you know what that is?”

“Blind Candidate! Blind Candidate!” Protests, screams, and shouts drummed inside Ciara’s ears. Her mind hurt a lot. There were so many voices thundering around her head, as if it was crushing the inside of her skull. Ciara let go of Liam’s hand and gripped her fishing rod very tightly. Blind Candidate! Blind Candidate! Liam! Chase! The voices inside her head couldn’t seem to stop shouting.

“Silence!” Kyra’s booming voice echoed. To Ciara’s relief, the noise died down. “I will speak first. Four years ago, the Arena Round has been closed because of a certain incident that nearly took a life of our fellow comrade,” she continued, “Many Vixens seek protest to open the Arena Round for great enjoyment, but unfortunately it did not continue. But today, I, Kyra Maurine, the leader of the 67^th propaganda revolution of the Vixens, has chosen Ciara, the Blind Candidate, for the opening round," Kyra continued, "bringing you extreme entertainment, and also…” her voice turned serious, “a great lesson to you all.”

More cheers exploded. Ciara! Ciara! Ciara!

Ciara couldn't take it anymore. The noises were too much inside her head. A tear slipped down from her cheek, and then, she felt a warm hand tucking the strands of her hair to her ear. Ciara looked up.

“Don’t cry,” It was none other than Liam, “See? Your eyes are swollen and puffy," Liam said, "You're a brave girl, and crying won't help. It will just ruin your beautiful face.” A ticklish sensation brushed across her eyes. Liam must be wiping her tears away using his thumb. When Liam gave her a light peck on the cheek, Ciara flinched.

“Before you go, bear this in mind,” Liam breathed, “Don’t give up. Trust me, if you do, you’d be dead the moment you wake up.”

Then Liam was gone, replaced by Kyra’s voice booming around the amphitheater. “Now, who will be her opponent?

“Shell! Shell! Shell! Shell!” Everyone cheered.

“If you say so,” Kyra said, “Then let’s call our best fighter in the Arena Round, Shell. The Silent Dagger!”

“Damn it!” Liam shouted.

“Blind Candidate, Get up the stage. Now.” Somebody said.

“Here I’ll assist you,” Chase said and held her hand, supporting her until Ciara’s foot touched a small elevated staircase on her right side. She groped her hand forward and grabbed the rope tied around the stage. Definitely a boxing ring, Ciara thought. Chase let go of her hand and Ciara took slow steps, trying to imagine herself inside the boxing ring. It's large...and very easy to move…

Then Ciara sensed someone entering the ring.

“Shell! Shell! Shell!” Everyone repeated.

Using all her hearing senses, Ciara tried to navigate her mind on her enemy’s features. A girl, Ciara thought, because of the feminine scent. The girl—Shell, was moving awkwardly. The sounds were missing one beat. Normally a person could produce two tapping sounds, but this girl had only one tap. Shell’s faint outline was 10 meters away from her. Ciara moved closer, and then she stopped. There were no sounds coming from Shell. Not even the sound of Shell’s hair, the shuffling of her clothes, or even her footsteps. Maybe that was why they called her the Silent Dagger.

“Hello…” Ciara said to Shell, “Are you excited to beat me up?”

No sound. That was odd.

Ciara pressed on further. “I heard so much about you,” she lied, “They say you nearly killed that Finnegan guy four years ago. Are you really that dangerous?”

No sound again.

Something snapped inside Ciara's mind. In Ciara's theory, a normal person could produce even the tiniest sound, while he or she wasn't speaking. Every person had a sound vibrating in the vocal tone, or coming from the rough echo of the throat. Now Ciara finally got the answer.

This girl is mute.

And there was more. Every time Shell took one step forward, there was only one sound coming from her feet. But where was the other one? Ciara waited until she heard a different sound—more like the tap of a wooden foot, combined with the sound of feet shuffling.

Shell had one wooden leg, the same one as Chase, and one human leg.

Also there was another thing that was bothering her. When a person walks, the arms produce a silent swish motion caused by the air. But for Shell, there was only one arm making swish sounds.

I get it, Ciara thought. Shell is missing one arm, right arm to be precise...She has a replacement leg, same as Chase’s wooden creation, and mute.

Why did the Vixens let Shell, a disabled person, fight her?

“Mute versus Blind. Who will be the one to win this fight?” Kyra’s voice interrupted Ciara’s thought. “Let’s begin the punishment! Ready, Get set and start!” The audience roared.

Don’t pity them, Liam’s voice echoed her mind, but Ciara couldn’t push that feeling away. Ciara raised her fishing rod, and immediately something smashed her ribs, knocking her off the ground.

Ciara gasped. What happened? The thought came to her. Shell was mute, so she was silent as a rat, but how could Ciara fight her without sensing her presence first?

The audience cheered Shell’s name over and over again. Ciara struggled to get up, when another splitting pain crushed her jaw—then her right cheek—and lastly her stomach. Ciara cried in pain. She could feel one or two ribs broken, and blood dripping from the sides of her tongue.

“Ciara!” She heard the Crude brothers yelling from below. Ciara laid face-first on the ground, smeared with her own blood. Then there was another hit on her stomach, repeating the same process over and over again.

Don’t pity them. Liam's words echoed her mind.

Perhaps Liam was right. Even if Shell was mute, Ciara shouldn’t pity her just because they were both disabled. But that was the way of the Vixens, and Ciara wouldn’t fall for a word like that. So instead, she thought of her own plan.

Ciara gripped her fishing rod, and when she sensed Shell was fading away from the noise, she blindly threw the string up, and felt a heavy tug on her hand, knowing that the string had caught Shell.

This was her chance. Ciara painfully staggered up and reeled the fishing rod. Another sound of blood, and a silent scream vibrating through Shell’s throat, Ciara guessed. Shell is screaming in pain.

“Yes! You made a scratch on her wrist. Keep going!” Liam shouted.

“You’re doing great, Ciara!” Chase joined Liam’s cheer.

With the strong blood surrounding Shell, Ciara could finally sense her. But Ciara’s victory didn’t last very long.

In a split second, the scent of blood was getting sharper, and the moment Ciara realized it, the ground exploded in front of her. Rocks and craters tumbled across her direction. Ciara coughed. Shell did it on purpose to blurry her senses. Smart move, Ciara thought. The scent of blood quickly disappeared. Where is she now? Ciara's heart pounded louder in her chest. The voices were muffled by the smoke, and the sounds were drowned by the cracking of earth and dust.

Suddenly coming from behind, another pain jabbed her back, throwing her forward as Ciara skidded on the ground and crashed against a hard object. Her mind screamed in pain from the impact.

Ciara...Ciara!

Ciara was hearing voices. It must be Chase and Liam.

If you give up, then you’d be dead in a minute, Liam’s voice echoed her thoughts.

Ciara painfully used her elbows to stagger up, but the moment she turned around—another hit smashed her forehead. Wet blood dripped down her right eye. She tried to get up, but another kick in the stomach knocked her off her senses.

More voices exploded…too blurry…too noisy. Lifelessly, Ciara crashed on the ground, panting. Ciara knew the fog had disappeared, and now she could detect Shell in front of her. But it was too late. Shell’s hand was already squeezing her neck. I’m going to die, Ciara muttered in her mind. I’m not match for her.

C…i…a…ra….com…e…back!

“S…orr…” Ciara muttered the last words before everything began to disappear.

Liam’s guilty shrieks dissolved in her mind. She was still flustered about Liam’s change of attitude. She had never seen him fuming over a deer’s delicate death. But why did Liam say the deer was poisonous? Why did he lie to them?

“Are you hungry?” Chase asked, severing her reverie. They stride past the barren land, and walked right into the heart of the forest. Ciara could smell damp water coming from the creek. Cicadas cried. Owls hooted on her right side.

The deer scene still cascaded around her head. She had never seen the Crude Brothers react like this. Let alone, Liam.

They had been walking for hours, moving under Chase’s guidance. Ciara guessed it was already night time, because the atmosphere turned cold, breezing through the woods.

“Where do you think Liam is?” Ciara asked, almost getting weary from the long walk.

“My guess would be somewhere mining Philters. I know it’s a little odd, but this is not the first time we had an argument like this.” Chase said grimly, “Sorry you had to witness that,”

Ciara shook her head, “That’s not the point. If we don’t find him, what’s going to happen when we get back?”

“Punishment, I think. We never break the rules once, so we don’t know what’s going to happen.” Chase said. “Ah, here it is.”

The two of them stopped at the mouth of the cave. She could hear the sky rumbling, the air turning moist.

“Let’s go inside. It’s starting to rain.” Chase said.

They had already accessed the expansive cave when it started to rain outside. Ciara glided her free hand across the uneven walls, and noticed something embossed on the rocks. Gems?

Thunder crackled from the sky, and as soon as Ciara heard it, she gave a loud yelp. Her body quivered, her heart drummed louder in her chest.

“You’re scared of thunder?” Chase asked amusingly. Ciara scowled. She hated thunder, and she didn’t like someone teasing her about it. Chase apologized. “Sorry. Here, I’ll help you warm up.”

She could feel the plushy fur covering her shoulders from the cold. A stream of rain battered outside. Icy wind blew swept past her as thunder crackled in a distance.

“Too bad we can’t find Liam in this weather. I guess we have to wait until it stops raining,” Chase said, “Let’s sit down, and I’ll prepare the fire.”

“But there aren’t any logs here?” Ciara asked.

“That’s why we have Swirls.” Chase reassured her, “I have one, just in case there was an emergency like this.” Ciara heard him rummaging his pockets. “Watch this.”

Fire erupted in front of them. Ciara braced for the heat, but she couldn’t feel anything. She was still shivering, and there were no traces of invisible heat reaching her skin.

“The Fire Swirl is protected by a force field that retains the fire in low heat,” Chase explained.

The fire switched to mid temperature, and later, she could feel a warm air shrouding them from the cold.

“So this is a Swirl. Amazing,” Ciara muttered.

“Yeah…” Chase said sheepishly, “About Liam…well, you don’t need to worry about him too much. He’s just....weird…”

“What do you mean?” Ciara asked curiously.

“I’m sorry, but I’m not supposed to tell you. It’s a family secret, and since we’re now inside a cave, I’ll show you how to mine a Philter,” Chase explained, dodging the topic of his older brother. “My weapon is the bow and arrow. Realia said I can’t use a ponderous weapon because of my wooden leg. So she gave me this since I have a keen eye and a sharp hearing sense for targeting my enemies.”

“I see…” Ciara asked. “Can I have your bow?”

“Sure,” Chase handed the sleek bow to her. As soon as Ciara grasped the bow, her sensory cortex had begun processing the data in her brain. A bronze handle forged with a robust string, and the honed arrowheads. Ciara’s fishing rod was nothing compared to Chase’s bow, which had been constructed and deformed countless times. Ciara gaped. “This bow is amazing.”

“Thanks,” Chase chuckled. “One thing about mining Philters is to use a short-axe, like the one I have here.” Ciara heard a slight sway in the air, so she knew Chase must have raised the short axe to show her, though she couldn’t see the thing. “The finest Philters are mostly found in the Northern caves. Each cave has a different variety of Philters. If I were to tell, I would say this cave has more Iron Philters than the rest, which means we’re in the Western side. Here, I’ll show you.”

They progressed toward the middle of the cave, where Ciara could hear streaks of water dripping from the ceilings. Ciara sensed Chase stopping nearby, examining the cavernous walls because of the scraping sounds.

“Well, look at that,” Chase said delightfully. “It’s not just Iron Philters, but there’s also Copper, Silver, and Metal Philters in here too. Let’s see…maybe I should start on the left side—no wait. I need to gather all these Iron Philters first…”

A halo light flickered across the darkness. Ciara stopped. Did she just saw a light? Not just any light, but it came straight from her inky sight. It was as if her vision was slowly rectifying itself.

“Did I just saw…the Philters glow?” Ciara cautiously asked, thinking it was a hallucination.

“Yup. Philters glow in the dark, so they are easy to spot at night.” Chase said gleefully, handling the weapon to Ciara. “Careful, it’s the short axe. Try not to drop it, okay?” Ciara clasped the axe. The handle is worn-out. The blade has been sharpened countless times, and it’s heavy. Ciara analyzed.

“I wished Liam was here. I’m sure he’ll be happy once he gets to see these Philters, especially at night time.” Chase said dreamily. Ciara also wished the same thing.

I didn’t kill it! Liam’s voice filled her thoughts.

Ciara shook her head. Chase stuttered, “I-I’m talking again, Sorry—maybe I should go first,”

“Let’s see…oh, there it is,” Chase mumbled, and Ciara heard a minor smash on the wall. He must have smashed a Philter, because she could hear the stones cracking on the ground. “Every Philter has different uses. For example, I’m trying to get the Bronze Philter for the bow. And next is the…Aha!—the Amethyst Philter.” Another smash, another collision between the blade and the rock. Chase kept bashing the wall, and Ciara waited until she heard a different sound—more like a bell than a normal thump.

“Okay, I got the Bronze and Amethyst Philter,” Ciara heard Chase slipping the rock on his pocket. “These two Philters are, what you call, a perfect match in terms of regenerating the Silver and Metal. Bronze refines heat and Amethyst for cooling. When combined, the forging processing will sharpen the arrow heads and build a massive level-up on the bow and arrow.”

“How do you know about these things?” Ciara asked, while Chase smashed another rock in a different position. More rocks tumbled across their direction, and smaller rocks made dusty sounds in the air.

“Well, you could say that it’s my…err...talent,” Chase said, “After all, I’m the one who created this leg.”

Ciara sensed Chase picking up a small Philter in his hand, and noticed that he was skimming his thumb over it, because of the slight scraping sounds he was making. Chase said to Ciara, “You know, if you’re vision wasn’t destroyed, I’m sure we’ll be sharing the same experience right now,” Chase continued, “These Philters are beautiful. At day, they look ugly, but at night, they look like stars in the sky. And even with the war still on, I will do whatever it takes to get everything back to normal, especially Liam. ”

Ciara smiled, “I’m sure you will…” she repeated, “especially Liam…”

Even with the rain still pouring outside, they still continued to mine Philters throughout the night. Chase was brimming with happiness. He was keen to explain every Philter they had collected, letting Ciara touch and feel the shape, the weight, and the size of the Philters. After they were done, Chase gave Ciara a Food Swirl. It tasted like lemon juice and filled her stomach with nutrients as if she ate a heavy meal. Sour…fruity acid, and sweet.

The rain wasn’t stopping, so Chase spread the furs on the floor and lay down, wrapping his arms around Ciara’s waist. Ciara blushed. She wasn’t used to having someone hugging her—especially a boy, but Chase didn’t seem to mind.

“Sorry, but can I hug you like this?” Chase said behind her. She could sense a pinkish aura radiating from his face. “I-If you don’t like it—"

“No, its fine,” Ciara said, “I’m glad that I have company.”

“Thank you…I can’t seem to get rid of my younger habits, you see…” Chase whispered. “Back when we were young, I used to hug Liam like this,” he stammered, “I-I’m sorry, I sounded like a little kid, again.”

“That’s normal,” Ciara said, because she too, was scared of thunderstorms.

“Can I ask...how you became blind?” Chase asked carefully.

Ciara took a sharp intake of breath and let her mind drift to the rain—to the sounds of leaves plopping down—and Chase’s shallow breathing. He must be wearing a simple shirt, and jeans. His arms are bare, just like mine. She revolved her senses around her. We’re sleeping in the middle of the cave, not too far from the mouth, and close to the fire, wrapped in fur. But it took long before she could answer Chase’s question. “I was tortured by the Specialists.”

Chase gasped, but Ciara continued, “Last time Liam asked me, I didn’t answer him, but now, I feel like talking about it. They burned my village, the Metric, after Madam Fier had finished spreading the Prophecy. It was obvious. Metric was the only village that opposed the Epicenter, and because of that, Virgo killed my people and captured the disabled people. I wasn’t blind at that time so I don’t know the reason why they made me blind. It doesn’t even make sense.”

After a few moments of silence, with the fire crackling and the sound of rain pouring down, Chase took a deep breath and exhaled, “I’m sorry…You must have experienced so much pain.” he said, “Thank you for telling me this. I’m going to sleep. Goodnight, Ciara.”

She had never said goodnight to anyone before, and it gave her heart a little boost. For the first time, someone appreciated her company. Back at Sore Tower, she had experienced loneliness, but now, with Chase and Liam, she was somebody.

“Goodnight,” Ciara mumbled before she dozed off.

“Well, well, this is a pleasant surprise,”

Ciara’s eyes fluttered open, and immediately noticed that Chase’s arms around her were gone. Chase's body temperature was warm so she knew his back was facing her, sleeping side view. Another minute had passed, and Ciara sensed Chase sitting upright, whisking his head because of the loud shuffling movements.

“Liam!” Chase said, surprise in his voice. “What are you doing here!?”

“I should ask you the same thing,” Liam said. He was back to his normal self—mischievous and annoying. “What are you doing here sharing a bed with Ciara?”

“I-It’s not what you think!” Chase stuttered. “W-We didn’t have a bed, and…”

“Yeah, yeah. You’re scared of the dark, and you wanted to hug someone because you missed company,” Liam said in irritation. “But this is not about your old habits. This is Ciara we’re talking about!”

“I know…I know…but, she didn’t mind…right, Ciara?” Chase asked nervously.

Ciara nodded. She was glad the Crude brothers were back to their normal selves, especially Liam. The rain had stopped, water had dried up, and the cold temperature was gone, replaced by a mild heat. It’s sunny outside, Ciara said in her mind. The fire had died down, and the fur was skewed aside on the ground.

“Geez, you really are clueless, Ciara," Liam said, "Anyway, better get up, and hope that we don’t get any punishment today,” Liam’s voice was getting farther so Ciara knew Liam was already outside the cave.

“Did you have a good sleep, Ciara?” Chase groaned. Ciara knew he was having a hard time scrambling to his feet because of his wooden leg, so she helped him up. “Thank you," Chase said, "Well, I guess we needed to pack our things and return back to Sputter Palace now.”

Ciara knew Chase was slipping his fur on, so she held his hand, and noticed the Philters embossed on his hanging bag. Hundreds of Philters. Is he planning to take all of it? Ciara thought.

“Let’s go, Ciara,” Chase said, and the two of them rejoined Liam.

Liam was waiting outside when the two of them came out. Ciara could smell a strong scent of liquor coming from Liam, even if she was afar. Was he always drinking alcohol? Ciara thought.

“Where were you last night, Liam?” Chase said, still holding her hand.

“In a cave, somewhere beside the lake,” Liam replied without any hint of anger. He’s back to normal. Ciara thought. “I had to meditate first before I had to find you guys. Unfortunately, the weather was so bad, I had no choice but to stay inside the cave and wait until dawn.”

Then Ciara felt Liam’s elbow resting on her shoulder, “And why are you two holding hands again?”

“So I could steady myself. Why? I hope you are not jealous,” Chase teased.

“Jealous?” Liam exclaimed and went into a theatrical act, “Look around you, little brother. You can find pretty girls everywhere, and not just pretty—but gorgeous ones too. I hate to break it to you, but I don’t find Ciara attractive,” he continued, “First of all, she’s blind. I mean, how can you tell the difference between her beauty, when she had those ugly eyes of hers? Second, she’s not good at fighting, and third, she will never have the chance to see. Do you want to marry a girl like that?”

Liam’s words crushed Ciara’s heart. Is he telling the truth? Did he really think I'm not pretty and…useless? Ciara thought, so all of them are just the same. They think I’m a nuisance because I have disabilities.

“Liam, you went too far!” Chase shouted at his brother, and was now talking to Ciara. “Ciara, Liam doesn’t mean that. He would never criticize y—”

Ciara held strong and said to Liam, “If that’s what you think. So be it.” Ciara gritted her teeth, and kept calm. This was nothing to her. Back at Sore Tower, she heard several disabled people causing a fight with the Rein guards because of criticism, but she always kept her distance and swallowed every pain and sorrow in her heart.

“Ciar—” Chase began.

“I never thought you were handsome anyway,” Ciara turned her head to the other direction, frowning. She could sense Liam laughing at her. “And you shouldn’t judge Chase for what he chooses. It’s his decision, not yours. So if you think there’s a chance that you can grab a pretty girl in this world, then I won’t stop you.”

“I see,” Liam snorted.

“Liam, say sorry to her,” Chase scolded.

“Hmm?” Liam hummed, still teasing her. “But why?”

“Because, what you did was wrong,” Chase said, “Ciara’s my friend, and even if she’s disabled, she has feelings too, you know. Just because you’re not disabled, doesn’t mean you can bully her, like Kyra.”

“Well, for starters, I’m not Kyra,” Liam said nonchalantly, “And I will never become like her.”

“Then say sorry to Ciara,” Chase groaned,

“Fine,” Liam said sheepishly, “Sorry Ciara,”

“Promise to her,” Chase said sharply.

“Alright,” Liam chuckled. Why is he laughing? Ciara thought. Liam continued, “Ciara, I promise that I won’t bully, or hurt your feelings for the sake of my little brother. Can we go home now?”

“Ciara?” Chase asked.

“It doesn’t matter to me if it’s a promise or not,” Ciara said, “I don't like you either," Liam whistled. “But even if you’re annoying, I don’t hold a grudge on you. I’m not that kind of person, and hatred is not a good thing.”

“Well, that ends it, right little brother?” Liam said, chuckling, “Ciara doesn’t ask for my forgiveness, so I’ll let her be. Come on, let’s move on already!”

“Are you okay about this, Ciara?” Chase whispered.

“Yes, don’t worry about me too much.” Ciara muttered, “And thank you for defending me.”

She could sense Chase smiling at her, “If someone bullies my friend, I will do whatever it takes to protect them. So remember that, Ciara.”

The three of them moved forward, but Ciara silently knew that deep in her heart, she loved Liam. Though her feelings were still fuzzy, because she kept thinking about Chase too. The anger had been forgotten in her heart. Liam was Liam. He was the one who saved her from Sore Tower, so she couldn’t blame him. But this feeling was something else. Jealously? Guilt? Maybe that was the reason why she was disappointed when Liam said that she wasn't pretty.

“Oh, hey! To lighten the mood up, look what I’ve got!” Liam shouted, and Ciara sensed that he was raising his hand, holding something that was dead. Heavy smell of feathers…claws…an animal. Ciara gasped.

“My word. I can’t believe you caught a Turkey!” Chase cheered, “And it’s not just a Turkey, it’s—”

“A Beltsville Small White turkey!” Liam continued his sentence, “I can’t wait to show this to Ms. Stupey. I bet her eyes will pop out once she sees this.”

“How did you get to catch one in this short period of time?” Chase asked.

“Lucky chance,” Liam said, “It’s a funny story, but here it goes. I was lying down on the floor, trying to get some sleep, when this turkey climbed on top of my arm and poke me in the forehead,” Liam laughed, “And then, I used my excellent hunting skills and stabbed the bird in a blink of an eye.”

“Get out of here,” Chase teased.

“Really, I’m telling the truth,” Ciara could sense Liam was having a good time recalling back his memories. I’m just glad that he’s back to normal. Ciara thought.

Ciara smiled weakly. Even though she couldn’t see what the turkey looked like, she could feel the auras of the Crude brothers—happy and golden. I guessed Liam and Chase’s argument has finally paid off after all. Ciara smiled.

It was impossible. Her sister, Leverie, was supposed to be dead.

A collection of images began to rupture her mind. My surname is Plop. Ciara entwined her fingers in a trembling knot. She was starting to remember it now. The orange flames flickering across the sky; her animated eight-year old self perched at the end of the dock, casting the fishing rod.

She was Ciara Plop, the youngest daughter of a fisherman in Metric.

“No way!” Liam was the first one to react.

Ciara timidly bit her lip. “I can’t believe it.”

“But,” Liam pondered, “If your sister is a past member of the Vixens, then why haven’t we seen her for the last three years in Sputter Palace?”

“Liam’s got a point.” Chase agreed. “We’ve been here for more than eight years, and yet, we don’t know who is named Leverie Plop.”

“I see…” Ciara said gloomily. So it’s just a lie. Ciara thought. No one survived that explosion. No one in Metric is alive…except for me…Ciara paused as if an idea hit her.

Except for me…

Unclenching and clenching her fists, Ciara rose up from the futon and scurried toward the door.

“Hey, where are you going!?” Liam yelled.

“I have to see my sister,” Ciara staggered, her body aching. “I need to know where she is. I need to know if she’s alright. I need to kno—”

But it was too late. Her foot got tangled on the fur, and the next thing that came was a hard crack that nearly split her head open. Ciara collapsed on the ground, a jolt of pain breached her sore body.

“Ciara…!” she heard Liam and Chase moving hastily. “Geez, you okay?”

"She tripped," Chase mumbled.

She wanted to move her lips, but her senses were already fading away. Ciara wanted to die. To tear off her hair. To roll on the ground. To scream in vain. But she couldn’t. This must be a lie…

She needed to find her sister.

Her only sister.

Leverie.

Before

“Plop!?...that’s a weird name. Are you a fish!?” The boys in Ciara’s class laughed, “Ha-ha! Ciara fish!”

Ciara stifled a cry.

“Ploppy the fish! Seara Plop!” The boys cheered. “Small and tiny. Seara Plop is going to get eaten by a big fish!”

Ciara couldn’t take it anymore. Leaving the boys behind, she darted toward the other direction, away from the insulting remarks, and hid behind a tall oak tree, sobbing.

“Seara Plop is going to get eaten by a big fish. Small and tiny, always getting eaten. No fish likes her, because she’s the food. Food is what big fishes eat, and Seara is one of them.” The boys sang. Squeezing her ears, she waited until the sky was dark and the voices died down. It was always like this. The boys. Her name. She wanted to endlessly grapple those boys, but she couldn’t find her own strength to do it.

Ciara. She wondered, staring at the grayish clouds filling the sky, and it almost looked like it was going to rain too. Plop.

The sky rumbled. The courtyard of the Community Center School was finally quiet, except for the howling of wind and the rustle of the leaves. It was pleasant to be alone. Ciara slid down, pulling her knees up and buried her face as the breeze turned chilly.

She could hear footsteps tapping on the pavement. “Ciara?” It was her sister, Leverie. “Why are you crying?”

As soon as she found out her sister was standing in front of her, Ciara scrambled to her feet and patted her cheeks. “I-I’m not crying!”

“You silly girl. Don’t lie to me.” Leverie chuckled. “You’re a bad liar, you know that right?”

Ciara sighed, and Leverie kneeled down, soothing her thumb on Ciara’s cheek. “Tell me.”

“The boys in my class always make fun of me because of my surname.” Ciara groaned. “They made a song about it too.”

“What did they say?” Leverie asked gently, the curves of her golden hair tucked on one side of her neck.

“Seara Plop is going to get eaten by a big fish.” Ciara repeated. “Small and tiny, always getting eaten. No fish likes her, because she’s the food. Food is what big fishes eat, and Seara is one of them.”

Leverie laughed, and Ciara protested. “It’s not funny!”

“I know.” Leverie tittered. “I have to say it’s quite a remarkable song. But if I were to reverse it, it would sound like this.” Leverie cleared her throat and sang in a melodic tune. “Small and tiny. Seara Plop disagrees with the big fish. Big fish don’t like food, because Seara Plop has the biggest heart of all. Small and tiny, she doesn’t care. Seara will show that small fish cannot get eaten.” Leverie stopped singing and grinned. “So do you like it?”

“I love it!” Ciara hugged her sister. “But I don’t think I’m that kind of fish you are talking about.”

“Yes you do,” Leverie said. “Because I know you can do it. Show them that you cannot get eaten, and I’ll cheer you from behind.”

“But what if I ca—”

“Never say that,” Leverie put a finger on Ciara’s lips. “If you do, then you can never possibly become my Seara fish.”

“But…”

“Ciara, you have to wake up!

After

Ciara did, but after she snapped her eyes open, she heard a sharp thunk beside the wall, grazing her right cheek. Ciara warily touched the side of her face. Blood. Using her left hand, Ciara perused the wall on her right side, feeling a slick handle protruding two inches near her nose. Someone tried to kill me again. Ciara concluded. Kyra…

“Lucky little thing.” Ciara snapped her head at Kyra’s voice. Her heart throbbed in her ribcage. “When I was your age, my comrades tried to kill me in my sleep,” Kyra snarled, “But luckily, I kept my mind alert.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about…” Ciara muttered. Obviously, Kyra was trying to threaten her, since she was a disabled. Ciara couldn’t apprehend the reason why the woman hated her so much.

“Of course you don’t.” Kyra agreed. “You are still clueless. The purpose of your existence here is to train, not to sleep in the daylight,” Kyra continued, “In this world, war is inevitable, and we Vixens don’t have time for any kind of rest. Especially if Virgo is still out there, dominating the world.” Ciara heard the leaves rustling on her coat. She must be leaving. Ciara guessed.

“Why do you hate Virgo so much?” Ciara asked.

“That’s none of your concern,” Virgo said darkly. “Now then, if you’ll excuse me. I have an important business to attend to.”

And then sounds disappeared, replaced by a loud slam on the door.

Ciara blinked. What was the whole thing about?

Pretending that nothing happened, Ciara licked the metallic blood on her fingers. It wasn’t bad, just a scratch. She slipped out of the bed, careful not to let her foot get caught on the fur, and groped the door. She was sure she was still inside the clinic, because of the putrid smell of healing ointments spreading inside the room. The words were still fixated on her mind. Leverie Plop is a Vixen member. A Rank 4.

She reached the doorknob, pushing it open—when a person stumbled past her. Ciara nearly lost her balance, but surprisingly, the person had managed to clasp her wrist before she fell on the floor.

“Hey, be careful.” Liam said, hauling Ciara up, steadying her on her feet, “Also, what are you doing up in the morning? You’re still not fully recovered yet, you know.”

“Sorry,” Ciara apologized, a little shaken.

“Seriously, try to be careful, will you?” Liam scolded. “Yesterday, you tripped, and then you fainted. And now you’re trying to repeat the whole thing again.”

“Sorry,” Ciara repeated.

Liam sighed, disregarding his lecture. “Anyway, what happened to your ear?”

Ciara lowered her head, embarrassed. “Kyra tried to kill me again.”

“Geez....” Liam clenched his teeth together. “That woman is…getting…on my…nerves,”

“Liam.” Ciara said worriedly. She could have sworn she heard Liam repressing his incensed anger, as if he was reluctant to burst into rage. Just like the one Chase hinted. Don’t get mad. “Liam. I’m okay.”

“J-Just…let me take a look at it.” Liam hissed.

She felt Liam’s finger brushing past her cheek, pushing the strands of hair falling on her face. Liam’s voice turned composed, “You got lucky. It’s just a scratch, so there's nothing to worry about. Also,” His fingers tucked her hair to her ear. “I like it when your hair is out of the way. Now, you look beautiful.”

Ciara blushed. This was the first time someone said she was beautiful.

“Thank you,” Ciara whispered.

“Anyway, I came here to tell you that you’re being assigned to your new class, which will be starting today.” Liam reminded.

“Class?” Ciara asked.

“Yup,” Liam said, “Sorry we didn’t have the chance to tell you yesterday, but Rank 1’s are required to attend class in the morning. Here, I’ll assist you.” Liam clasped Ciara’s arm, and dragged her outside.

“Why so sudden?” Ciara asked. She could smell a compelling lavender scent on Liam’s hair. He just got out of the shower, she guessed. His hair was damp wet, his skin was cool to touch, and his clothes smelled like fresh soap.

“Kyra’s orders. You know what they say. Obey the queen,” Liam recited. “Here’s a hint from the Rank 1 class, and you’re not going to like it.”

“Why?”

“Because Kyra’s the teacher.”

Ciara gulped.

“I heard that her lessons are about sparring. Heinous training if you ask me,” Liam said, “But don’t worry. That’s not going to happen on the first day, she’s just going to show you all the equipment like the one I told you about.”

Ciara could remember the weird names and upgrade potions that Vixens use, like the Philters, the Furs, and the Swirls.

“Oh,” Ciara muttered.

“I told you. It’s going to be fine. First days are usually boring with the lectures and everything. But hey, at least you’ll learn something right?”

Ciara wasn’t sure. “I guess.” She heard voices chattering at the end of the hallways. “Um…where’s Chase?”

“He’s back at the room, showering.” Liam said.

“And what about you? What are you going to do today?” Ciara asked.

“Mission.” Liam said enthusiastically, “I need to repay Ms. Stupey, right?”

The two surpassed the labyrinth of passages, which Ciara had secretly memorized four days ago. Left, straight, right, straight, left. Ciara recited. Then they stopped in front of a room that reeked of parched blood and wood saw.

Ciara pinched her nose. “Is this it?”

“Yup, Rank 1 class. Everyone has already gathered up, but don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll be fine,” Liam clutched the doorknob.

When Liam pushed the door open, a deadly silence struck her. She heard the door creaking, and a hushed whispers spreading around the room. Her stomach twisted in a knot. I don’t hear any sounds of chairs around. Ciara wondered. They are only sitting on the floor. What odd people.

“Sorry, we’re late, Kyra.” Liam said loudly. Ciara flushed. She was still wearing her hospital gown, so the bandages were exposed on her bare legs and arms. What was Ciara thinking? She should have changed a while ago!

“Liam, and…the Candidate,” Kyra said sharply, “Come in. I was just getting warm up.” Dead weight settled on Ciara’s shoulders. “Sit down.”

Ciara nervously took four steps and sat on the ground. There must be…ten or more people in here…Ciara guessed.

“Liam, you are dismissed.” Kyra ordered.

“Alright, Ma’am.” Liam said, disappearing from the door.

How can Liam leave me like this? Ciara turned flustered. This was Kyra. The woman who flung a knife that scratched her ear. The woman who tried to kill her thirty minutes ago.

“What is your name, Blind Candidate?” Kyra demanded.

“Ciara,” she said timidly. Why is Kyra acting like this is the first time we met? Ciara noticed.

She despises you, her conscience said. Maybe that was the reason why Kyra ignored her today, because now she was a teacher, not an assassin. And the new students didn't seem to know about her true attitude yet.

“Alright, settle down everyone. Welcome to Rank 1 class.” Kyra said, and Ciara heard the swish of her coat again. She must be walking around the room, Ciara analyzed. “Today, I’m going to teach you the Vixen tradition. And of course, I’ll demo it.” Ciara heard her body bending down as if she was grabbing something.

“These things are called Swirls. They are circular in shape and pocket size. Rank 2’s created these potions in case of emergencies. For example, food, healing potions, power boosters, and scent locator,” Kyra said. And then suddenly, Ciara felt something small on her hand. Her seatmate must have put it there without letting her know. She closed her palm, feeling a round, petite bottle enclosing in her hand. So this is the Swirl Liam is talking about.

“Each Swirls have different colors. Green for healing, brown for food, blue for power booster, and red for scent locator. Every Vixen must have one of these, or else you will die. Is that clear?”

Everyone obediently responded, “Yes.”

“You’re the Blind Candidate, right?” Ciara heard her seatmate—a girl, whispering beside her. “My name is Macie, and I’m your biggest fan—since they say that you’re awfully talented and smart, but…” Macie gasped and Ciara knew that Macie realized she talked too much. “I-I didn’t mean that…well…I wouldn’t mind if we could become friends…because I admire you so much.”

Talented? Ciara never thought she was talented, but she was glad that someone appreciated her company.

“Thank you and I wouldn’t mind being friends with you.” Ciara said and sensed Macie grinning.

“Really!?” Macie said. “I’m so glad…” Ciara nodded and Macie continued. “So who brought you here?”

“Liam.”

“Oh, the handsome thief.” Macie said, dazzled. Is Liam that handsome? Ciara kept repeating that question in her mind. “Sometimes I couldn’t help, but stare at him all day, especially at his younger brother…”

Ciara didn't imagine the Crude brothers were famous in Sputter Palace. Liam was a ladies’ man, and Ciara wouldn’t bother getting involved with him. However, Chase was different from his older brother. He was kind, gentle, and mature.

“Here are the furs.” Ciara’s reverie crumbled when she heard the clamorous sounds of leaves shaking. Kyra must have taken off her coat. ”Furs are the national attire of the Vixens, but they also have another purpose in life.” Kyra said. “These furs can camouflage our bodies when we are inside our enemies’ territory. When you become a Rank 3, you will have the chance to explore the woods, and learn to hunt down animals for food. Furs will also keep us out from the moist of the rain, and give warmth to our bodies as the weather turns cold.”

“When you become a Rank 2, you have to make your own Swirls, furs, and everything in preparation for battle.” Kyra said. “Remember, war is still here, so we must be on our guard at all times. Weak people are losers; Strong people are winners. Don’t forget that.”

So that explains everything, Ciara thought.

“Next, we’ll go to the last step. Philters. These rocks are used to upgrade our weapons.” Kyra said. “As you can see, they are in the shape of orbs and gems. Each of these Philters is difficult to find around the Casts. They can only be found in caves, or can be bought around Realia’s shop. If you want to make your weapon stronger than the previous one, ask Realia to forge it by giving her the Philter. Now then, are there any more questions?”

Silence.

Kyra continued. “Good, class dismissed.” After that, Ciara heard the door closing and everyone springing up to their feet.

“Here, let me help you.” Macie said. Ciara could sense Macie’s hand in front of her, and grabbed it. The two girls steadied each other on the floor and waved goodbye.

“Well, see you later, Ciara. It was nice meeting you,” Macie said, “Oh, one favor. Save the world for us.” She ran off, disappearing from the room. Ciara blinked in confusion.

Did they really believe she was the Candidate? Ciara wasn’t quite sure. Kyra had beaten her, so how was that supposed to make her the Candidate? Ciara stepped out of the room, grateful that she made one friend who didn’t ask anything about her odd attire, and bumped into someone again.

“Oops, sorry—Ciara!” Chase said, his wooden foot making tapping sounds on the ground. “Here, take my hand. Since class is over, Liam wanted to take you for our mission tonight.” He tangled his fingers around her hand and they moved forward, walking in bare foot. “Remember the payment for Ms. Stupey’s cafeteria? Well, that’s where we are heading. We’re going to the forest.”

“But Rank 1’s are not allowed to go outside the forest, only at the garden, right?” Ciara asked as Chase hurriedly took her down to, what Ciara could remember the maze corridors. She knew they were passing the people walking at the tunnels, whispering about her and being the Candidate.

“Yeah, they can't, if a Rank 3 didn’t ask them to join the mission.” Chase said. Even with a replacement leg, Chase walked fast, though he was slightly limping from the unbalanced creation of his wooden leg.

“So what are we going to do in this mission?” Ciara asked.

“We’re going to catch that rare turkey, so Ms. Stupey can let us off the hook.” Chase said.

“How many years have you two been here?” Ciara asked.

“We’ve been here since I was six, and Liam was eight. We lived in a village in Group, but after that incident we were brought here instead.” Chase said.

“What incident?”

Chase didn’t say anything, and after a few moments, he changed the topic. “I think we should walk faster. Liam doesn’t like to wait.”

Ciara wondered why the topic was suddenly disclosed. There was nothing to be ashamed living in Group. It was a society higher than the Metric. Most people there were farmers, fishermen, and factory workers. That was the place where Epicenter had gotten most of their livelihood. Food, clothes, water, and everything.

“Alright,” Ciara said, dismissing the topic. “But after we get back from the mission, will you play the piano for me?”

She heard Chase laughing. “Yeah. I will.” he said, “You know, Ciara, I’m happy that you’re here. Ever since I came to Sputter Palace, I’ve been feeling kind of lonely," Chase said, "You’re the first friend I ever had, aside from Liam.”

Friend. That word sparked Ciara’s heart. Of course, she too, didn’t have a friend, until now. She was glad that Liam saved her, even though Kyra treated her miserably in this place.

“You guys sure take a long time to get in here,” Liam said as Ciara and Chase finally reached the other side of the cavern. This time, Ciara could sense a large hole with bright light shining over them. They must be outside, because she smelled the fresh air and moist grass all over the place.

“So how did your first lesson go, Ciara? I’m sure Kyra didn’t bully you this time. After all, she’s the type of person who doesn’t want to exploit her true attitude to the newcomers.” Ciara heard Liam stepping over the fallen leaves, so she knew that he must be walking toward the open air.

“No, Kyra didn’t. But I have made another friend.” Ciara said.

Chase stopped in his tracks. “Who?”

“Macie.”

Liam grunted, and Ciara wondered why. “The shy newbie," Liam continued, "Come on, let’s move forward. We need to get that turkey before the sun goes down, or else, Kyra will be furious.”

“All Vixens have a curfew.” Chase explained to Ciara. “If we are going to the forest, we must be back before the sunsets, except for Rank 4’s who are out of the city.

The three of them marched together Fresh air blasted across her face, and she noticed the grass was getting taller, feeling it brushing the sides of her knees as she took one step forever. She imagined herself walking through the dim shade forest, surrounded by tall trees and strange animals. So this is the Casts.

“By the way, did you bring your weapon, Ciara?” Chase asked politely.

“No, I forgot. I must have left it at the clinic.” Ciara said.

“That’s fine," Liam said, "After all, we still got our weapons, right Chase?" Liam groaned irritably. Ciara knew Liam was mad because of the twigs and leaves blocking his way. Ciara didn’t blame the Crude Brothers. They were taller than her, and Ciara was smaller, so the branches didn't get to pass her.

Then, Ciara heard a sharp sound coming to her right. She whirled her head. The sound disappeared, but they could still hear a slight rustling sound coming from the bushes. Someone is following us. Ciara observed.

Ciara gripped Chase’s fur and Liam’s hand, catching the two brother’s attention.

“Wha—” Liam said, but Ciara cut him off with shh!

“Did you hear something, Ciara?” Chase whispered cautiously.

Ciara nodded, and pointed her finger to her right side, where she could still hear the slight movements of someone hiding behind those bushes. “Someone is following us.”

“Or maybe a turkey!” Liam exclaimed very loudly. Ciara and Chase gave him a loud shh!

“Sorry, well what are you two waiting for? It’s time for us to catch that rare turkey!” Liam muttered, and raced past Ciara with quiet footsteps. Ciara and Chase followed. She heard the fuzzy sound of leaves, so she knew Liam was sliding across the bushes. Then later, the sound disappeared.

“Where is he now?” Ciara asked.

“He’s just putting on his fur, maybe surveying the place for wild turkeys.” Chase groaned.

They past another field, but this time Ciara smelled something different. She knew that familiar scent—like blood mixed with rotting food. Someone got killed.

There was only one thing that came to her mind. Liam!

Chase asked. “What’s wrong?”

“Blood,” Ciara cupped her mouth with her hands. Chase immediately grabbed her hand, and they both started to run forward. “We have to find Liam.”

Her heart was pounding louder in her chest. They were darting across the field that was now, what Ciara could sense, a large field without any trees. An isolated part filled with heavy air and the loud splashing of water.

“Liam!” Chase shouted. He was having a hard time running with his wooden leg, but Ciara supported him so they could run faster. “Liam, where are you!?”

“Don’t tell me he’s dead.” Ciara gulped.

“That would be impossible, except if he’s dumb enough to be killed by a bear.” Chase said as a matter of fact.

The sound was getting closer, and this time, it was a gut-wrenching scream that gave Ciara’s heart a jolt. It didn’t sound like a human—but an animal. They were now running faster; the cries becoming loud and horrid across the air.

And then they stopped. Ciara and Chase panted, while Chase let go of her hand and dropped his knees on the ground. “Liam—what the hell…” Chase breathed deeply.

Ciara knew what he meant. She smelled blood, and it was filling her nose, like acid melting in her throat. She gagged, while the strong scent of blood rose up in the air. Suddenly she heard an animal crying on the ground that sounded like dying. Liam must have killed an animal.

Ciara grew closer, and reached out her hand to grope the animal on the ground. Liam shouted. “Ciara, don’t—”

But Ciara didn’t listen to him. She continued to touch the animal, skimming her hands all over its body. Short fur, sharp, curve horns, a long snout...It's a deer. Ciara analyzed. Then she felt a wet, liquid oozing out from the middle of its stomach, and a long stick protruding from its flesh. A sickle.

“Why did you kill a deer?” Ciara trembled and when she glance at the animal—a vision of her sister and the deer crossed her mind. Her mind snapped awake.

Images of her younger version and her blond sister flashed right in front of her eyes. Her blond sister patting the deer’s head. Young Ciara raising her palm to feed the deer. The two Plop siblings sprinted down the woods, kneeling in front of the injured deer. Leverie taking out some ointments and smudging the green paint on the deer’s stomach. Then she saw the deer nuzzling their heads while the Plop sisters waved it goodbye.

Tears sprouted from her eyes. Ciara didn't know what happened to her. It was like the image suddenly flash inside her mind, even though she couldn't remember it. Her memories were slowly coming back one by one.

Ciara muttered, “Why did you kill the deer?”

“I didn’t kill it, okay!?” Liam shouted, restraining his anger. Then suddenly, rough hands shoved her backward. Chase is pulling me back. Liam continued, “Look, Ciara. The thing you heard was definitely a person, but the moment I found this deer, someone had already killed it.”

“It’s not completely dead.” Chase said from behind. “We could still heal it. I have some healing Swirls with m—”

“No!” Liam disappeared from Ciara’s side, and she heard him slapping his brother’s bottles from his hand, hearing it spilling on the grass.

“What did you do that for!?” Chase yelled.

“I just—ugh, I don’t want you to heal an animal that is already dead! That thing doesn’t have use for us anymore, and we can’t eat it because it’s…poison.” Liam groaned. Something wasn’t right. Liam was acting strange, so strange that Ciara couldn't tell what was wrong with him.

“You’re lying. I thought you were restraining your anger, but…” Chase said.

“Chase, don’t. I don’t want to kill you—j-just leave me alone, okay?” Liam shouted angrily. Ciara heard grumpy steps moving past her, and after that the sound disappeared. Liam had left.

“Are you alright, Ciara?” Chase must have moved to her side, because she could feel his hands gripping her wrist, pulling her up. When she balanced herself, Chase checked her arms for any signs of injuries. “Are you alright? My brother…didn’t hurt you, right?”

“No,” Ciara said, wiping the tears off her eyes. “Why is Liam mad at us?”

Chase sighed. “He’s not mad. He’s just confused, and I think he’s," Chase paused abruptly, "—Excuse me. But I think the topic is closed. I’m sorry.” She could hear Chase's footsteps moving farther. Chase must be walking toward the deer. Ciara didn’t understand what happened, because she knew there was something the Crude brothers weren’t telling her.

She could remember what Liam said to his brother. I don’t want to kill you. Just leave me alone—okay?

Why would Liam kill his own brother? And what was the issue of Liam getting mad? Why was Liam denying that he didn’t kill the deer"?

Ciara heard a gashing sound coming from the deer, and a sharp sound of metal. Chase must have pulled the sickle from its stomach. Ciara thought. Chase said gloomily, “Sorry, but I think we should move on.” And then he was beside her, tangling his bloody fingers with hers. “We need to find Liam, the quicker, the best.”

They moved forward, but before they could disappear in the mist of the field, Ciara took glanced over her shoulder and muttered. “Sorry, deer.”

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The Overthinking Diaries of a Sensitive Idealist

Blind Candidate: Chapter Nine

Blind Candidate: Chapter Eight

Blind Candidate: Chapter seven