Chapter 1

KAIYA
Kaiya very much spite the custom of harnessing a dress. In fact, she finds it rather repulsive than most things she detests; and there are a lot on that list. On this day of tragedy; Kaiya is clothed into the very thing she despises. Of course, it is a necessary evil for her to accept. She is a stunning and elegant sight to behold, especially while furnished in marvellous garment. Her fair milky skin is as pale as any other Caballae Elf. The hair on her head is of auburn, in which compliments her pale crystal blue eyes. She is a beauty that any men; elf, human or orc would trophy by their arms and in their beds. Fortunately for Kaiya, there have not been many occasions in which she beds men. For her the taste of women satisfies plentiful.

The fair Caballae Elf walks the path towards a tavern in the heart of Amarant. This very tavern holds the name Melynda. It is a hot spot for many social gatherings. Kaiya has information stating that the person she is looking for frequently lingers in this location during his days of business in Amarant. She slowly opens the door of the building and walks through it with such gracefulness. All the eyes inside Melynda; drunk or sober are now placed on her. This may not be such a wise decision on her part, but nevertheless, there is not much for her to do now then sit on a stool by the barkeep and hope to revert attention away from her by ordering a drink. The entire bar seems to be in top shape. Musicians play their craft over at the corner and the women who serve are quite exquisite. Kaiya now understands why a lot of social gatherings occur here. If she acquired friends, then this is a place for her to bring them.

“What will you have my lady?” The barkeep kindly asked.

“Two pints of ale, one for the lady and the other for myself.” Gestured by a young handsome Pallideran male. He was dressed in light silver armour conjoined by a blue robe attached with a hood.

Kaiya secured a very authentic fraud smile that not many can decipher. “I appreciate your gesture.”

“No need for your appreciation, my lady. It is my pleasure to converse with you.” The young Pallideran male told her. The smell of ale reeks from his breath. This boy is drunk.

“My name is Cassandryea Rosenthal.” It is the alias that Kaiya favours most.

“That is an exquisite name my lady. I am Laynardo Kaifker.” The young lad stood up straight from his stool and bowed. “Apprentice Mage and Squire.”

“Which is it Laynardo? Apprentice or Squire?”

“I am currently enrolled to the Mages Union of Arcadia. However my Knight Captain resides in Amarant. Which is why the reason I am here. A reason I am glad about in the fortunate outcomes of courting such a fair lady.”

If Kaiya was a weaker woman, she may have fallen for his words. “With your current standpoint, I believe you are taking the footsteps of a Battle Mage.”

“I am my dear lady. I dream of becoming Arch Knight.”

“You dream big Laynardo.”

“My lady, dreaming big is not the problem.”

“Is it not?” Kaiya allowed her words to sound intrigued.

“The real problem is dreaming too small.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Those words took Kaiya by surprise. She was not expecting such a young lad to have the voice of a matured man. “For your sake Laynardo, I do hope to call you Arch Knight one day.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Laynardo gulped a large portion of his pint and glared into the beauty across from him. “Sadly my lady, I do not see you often here. Are you from town?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“No my future Arch Knight. I am here on business.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Laynardo’s curiosity was intrigued. However, before his questions were asked, an Umbark male; not much older than Laynardo, tugged upon his ear. “What in the heavens are you up to Squire Laynardo Kaifker?” The Umbark asked.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Technically, that’s Apprentice Squire Laynardo Kaifker to you!” Laynardo howled back. “You have already returned from your mission?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“There is no such rank you fool! And yes we arrived back mid-day.” The Umbark finally had a whiff of the stench in Laynardo’s breathe. “Are you drunk?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Clearly not enough to be handling your rubbish.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">The Umbark had no patience for such indecency and clutched upon young Laynardo’s throat. “You are not of age to be drinking! Yet, you disregard this and drink while your Commander is in critical condition?” The Umbark loosened his grip.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Concern is now written upon young Laynardo’s face. “What of the Commander?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“He was greatly injured during our mission. He lost a lot of blood.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Tears began to form into the eyes of young Laynardo. “I’m sorry my lady. Please excuse my absence.” Laynardo stood up from his stool and made his way towards front door. He staggered but regained his balance as he disappeared from sight.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“I apologize for any inconvenience my lady. Laynardo is the son of a very powerful lord. He is used to doing what he wants.” The Umbark carries the complexion of wood; as do all in his race. Both his eyes and hair are the color of brown. He has a very toned and chiselled face.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Your apology is not needed. The young boy did nothing but entertain me. Shall you take his place?” Kaiya feels afflicted with the use of those sweet words.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“I am glad that is all he caused. It will also be my pleasure to take his place in the hopes of entertaining such a marvellous sight.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“You words are too kind. My name is Cassandryea Rosenthal. Yours?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“I apologize once more my lady. My manners seem to have left me. My name is Guardian Donald Sergora.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Guardian you say?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Yes my lady.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“You do not seem much older than young Laynardo. However, here you are holding the title of Guardian in such a tender age.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Kaiya’s words have targeted a sensitive spot. “I do hold the record as the youngest guardian in all of Amarant.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“That is quite a feat Guardian Donald Sergora.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Thank you my lady.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">The title my lady has now irritated Kaiya beyond her self control. “What allows you to believe I hold the title of lady?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Guardian Donald Sergora is taken by surprise. “You are not of nobility?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“What if I am not?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Well, many apologise. You do not seem to be a commoner.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“However, you assume that I carry nobility status?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt"> “Yes, your expensive dress, the way your words are spoken and the surname you carry.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Frustation courses through Kaiya’s entire entity. She detests noble households, which is why she also despises dresses. On the bright side, she is proud of herself for portraying such a phony persona. From this reason, Kaiya was able to calm down. “You know of Rosenthals?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Yes indeed. They were a house of Caballae elves in which held a large influence over Amarant. However a large portion of them were slaughtered a very long time ago. It is rumoured that the mythical assassin group the Night Vultures served the deed. Now there are a very few of them, and those who hold the name tend to hide it.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Kaiya wore an agonized face. “It was a tragedy. I was there that night in the slaughter.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“I apologize if my words brought back memories of horror.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">What Guardian Donald Sergora does not know, is that Kaiya was in fact the one who was hired to butcher the Rosenthal family. The real Cassandryea Rosenthal died a very gruesome death by her hands. The reason behind Kaiya’s constant use of her name is the final words Cassandyrea spoke: ''You may kill because you have no choice, but will you choose to kill those that you love? '' It is these words that etched a memory of Cassandryea in her mind. Kaiya does not even know the meaning of the word love, yet she gained a feeling of fear and resentment. “Do not fret young Guardian, your words did not bring back memories of horror.” Towards Kaiya, they brought back memories of happiness.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Guardian Donald Sergora abruptly began to rub his chin. He is in deep thought; adjusting which words to speak. “Cassandryea was an unfortunate soul who met her maker that same tragic night. Stories tell me that she was butchered beyond recognition. More so than the rest of her family who were killed that evening.” The Guardian now fully altered his attention towards Kaiya’s eyes. “There were two of you named Cassandryea?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Kaiya regretted the words she chose. She believed that she has let her guard slip away a tad bit and was caught in her false existence. She reached for her dagger with her left hand hidden on her lower back. Her eyes quickly scanned the inside of the tavern to determine how many eyes are placed upon them. They were all minding their own businesses, except for one pair of eyes; her target, Espyor Zurlocke. It truly is unfortunate that he appears inside Melynda during the most crucial timing. He is in Amarant for business purposes. Tomorrow he leaves towards home. If she fails to kill him here tonight, than she must travel to Pious, in the continent of Amriak where he is settled.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Espyor Zurlocke is a middle aged Thyzantine male with dark hair which matches his slanted eyes. He is standing across the room by the front door. Kaiya is determining what choices to take in this dire situation. Espyor quickly gave her a smile when he noticed that she caught a glimpse of his eyes. At this moment, it will not be wise for her to strike down the Guardian while she is being noticed, especially by her target. However she came to the conclusion that there are no other options to choose from. She was too careless, and now she has to pay for her negligence. Kaiya is going to quickly penetrate The Guardian`s heart. She will then pounce towards her target as swiftly as she can; slicing his throat and make a run for it. She is confident with her speed and agility to be able to escape the tavern without any difficulties.

“Unless I may have heard the stories wrong.” Guardian Donald Sergora corrected himself.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Kaiya felt a sigh of relief. “It appears you may have Guardian.” She stood up from her stool. “I apologize for the inconvenience, but I am going to take my leave now.” She does not want to expose her cover anymore than she already has. Her new plan is to wait outside the tavern until her target exits. However she hears the door open and noticed that the man she is after is no longer where he was a moment ago. He has already left. Kaiya rushed to the front door in the hopes of catching up to him. Fortunately for her, he was not too far away.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">The beautiful assassin quietly followed him for a short while. This allowed her the opportunity to remove the unholy garment placed upon her body. She tosses the dress into a large container in which holds litter and trash. Kaiya feels this is the best location to place the dress. However, her body is now fully exposed. If one were to have been in awe of her beauty while she harnessed that dress, than they would not be prepared for the sight of her nakedness. She didn’t mind though. In her head, she would rather be naked than wear that dress.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">The only thing placed upon her is a belt that holds her knife, in which is located on her lower back. She quickly took cover behind an ally way when she heard footsteps behind her. It is already deep within the night, there must not be many who walk the streets at this hour; other than thieves and thugs. She scaled the walls on the alley way and continued her hunt above the rooftops of the city.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Espyor took his time while strolling by himself. It is not very wise to be alone late at the hour of night in the heart of Amarant. There are many thieves and thugs who would not think twice to kill in order to pick from your pocket. However, Kaiya does not mind walking the streets late at night by herself. She is confident in her capability of combat; even if naked. As she watched her target, she detected a group of three thieves stalking her prey as well. This is not a good situation for Kaiya. If Espyor were to be killed, it has to be by her own hands. She cannot return if the death of Espyor was not caused by her. Night Vultures do not accept failure, which is why there are so little of them. This is the reason why society believes their organization is nothing but a myth. If one fails a contract, then death can only be their punishment.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">She gripped onto the handle of her knife, ready to attack. With the lack of luck, Espyor caught wind of the thugs existence and engaged in combat. Kaiya could not believe what she is witnessing. Espyor has no blade of any sort and yet he is willing to battle. He must have drunk a bit too much. However, she is willing to watch what Espyor is capable off. He is her target, and is willing to know if Espyor may present any troubles.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Espyor placed his fists in front his face. He is a Thyzantine, and they are very much skilled in hand to hand combat which they call martial arts. She should have predicted this ahead of time. However, today she seems to not be thinking properly. Kaiya believes that it was the dress that slowed her thinking.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">One of the thugs attempted to place his knife into Espyor’s abdomen area; however Espyor was able to swiftly catch the thug’s hand with ease. Astonishment is written upon the thug’s face. He has never witnessed or experienced the art of hand to hand combat. Espyor quickly dragged the thug’s wrist towards the ground in which staggered his assailant’s balance. In one swift movement, Espyor lifted his right leg and connected it towards the thug’s temple. Kaiya noted how the thug is placed unconscious before he trampled the ground. Espyor must be well versed in martial arts. Another thug entered the battle; however Espyor quickly turned and placed his left heel upon his opponent’s jaw. The attacker instantly dropped towards the ground as well. Espyor approached the third and final thief by placing the sole of his right leg onto the thug’s face. This all occurred within mere seconds. Espyor quickly brushed off the dirt from his attire and continued to walk away as if nothing ever had occurred.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Kaiya watches as he walked away. She will continue to follow him just as he is a bit away from sight. She does not want him to notice her presence.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“What are you up too?” A voice asked her from behind.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Kaiya quickly turned while gripping upon the handle of her knife. “You followed me.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Indeed I did.” Guardian Donald Sergora agreed.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“You should have stayed away. Now your life is forfeit.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Guardian Donald Sergeroa unsheathed his sword. “You have quite the figure my lady.” The Guardian emphasized the words my lady.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Stop insulting me!” Kaiya roared. She finally whipped out the blade of her knife. It glared into The Guardian’s eyes. The amethyst coloured blade conveyed a beautiful reflection from the night sky.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">The young Guardian was amazed by the appearance of her knife. She is not surprised. Most who witness the beauty of her knife carry the same reaction. “That knife. Where did you acquire it from?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“That is of no importance.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“My captain carries a similar blade.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Kaiya is now genuinely intrigued. “What kind of blade?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">The Guardian mocks her. “That is of no importance.” He swiftly gripped the blade of his sword. Kaiya instantly recognize this kind of ritual. He is going to abuse himself in order to utilize Blood Magic. She quickly hustled towards him in order to halt his ritual. The young Guardian was not prepare for the speed in which Kaiya possess. She quickly ducked underneath him and pitched her left fist into The Guardians liver.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt"> “Blood Mage.” Kaiya whispered.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Guardian Donald Sergora fell upon his knees; writhing in pain while caressing his abdomen. The Guardian struggles to speak his words due to immense agony. “You are very quick my lady.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Kaiya slowly placed her knife upon his throat. She stared into his deep brown eyes. The young Guardian is brave. She kind of feels respect for him; he did not squirm at the sight of a knife being held an inch away from his throat. She usually sees death upon the eyes of those she is about to kill. Strangely, she did not see them in his eyes. “Any last words?” She calmly asked.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">The Guardian struggled to find his words once more. “Can Night Vultures ever love someone?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">This question reminded Kaiya of Cassandryea which instantly irritated her. “Why do you ask?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Stories claim that Night Vultures can never fall in love due to their evil corrupted hearts.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Kaiya nodded. “The stories seem accurate.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">The Guardian stares back into Kaiya’s crystal blue eyes. “Then why do I see a glimmer of love in your eyes?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">Kaiya believes The Guardian is trying to cause confusion. “What is it that you are trying to say?”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“You are the only Night Vulture I have ever met, but your eyes tell me that love is capable upon your heart. I am an interpreter, gifted with reading a person’s soul through their eyes.” Kaiya’s amethyst blade further enclosed towards The Guardians throat; slightly cutting him. Blood dripped onto the floor. “Those were my last words. You can kill me now.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“I have never taken the life of an interpreter before. You shall be my first. May your soul rest peacefully.” Kaiya gripped heavily upon her knife; ready to decapitate the young Guardian.

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">“Karasis.” Guardian Donald Sergora whispered. The blood dripping from his throat allowed him the power to cast this spell. “Do not move.” Guardian Donald Sergora stood upon the frozen beautiful assassin. He gently caressed her cheek. “From your eyes, I was also able to witness great suffering and pain. I truly hope you find peace and love in your future, which is why I am going to let you live.” He gently grasped her chin and softly kissed her full lips. “You will forget everything about our encounter once I am away from your detection.”

<p style="text-indent:36.0pt">A gust of wind brushed her face. Abruptly, Kaiya is now aware of her surroundings. She could not remember what has occurred. Kaiya scanned around the city tops and suddenly, memory crept upon her. She looked over the edge of the building and noticed the three downed thugs. No sign of Espyor Zurlocke.