Author's Note: Hello everyone! It's me Xanderush305, a writer who's been on hiatus for a long while. So, I know that I haven't written any stories for a few years despite having started alongside DC Chroma. And I also know that my first story wasn't all that good either if it were to be compared to my friend's written works. He clearly out scales me in both quality and quantity, making me feel rather inferior. For the past years of feeling inferior, I finally overcame that. Now, I'm back to start a new by revamping my previous story. Yes, I chose to better my previous story instead of creating a new one. But I promise you that this story contains new events with almost the same plot line as before. So if you're interested, I encourage you to read this and give it a chance. Hope you enjoy the story!

Chapter 1: The Story Unfolds


In the darkness, one can't help but feel hopeless and lost as they traverse the empty void with no knowledge of what's to come. Pitifully searching for a way out, they soon begin to tire and eventually lose sight of it all. Slowly yet surely forgetting their purpose and reason for existence, the void soon consumes them and they are left an empty husk of once they were...


Upon opening my eyes, I jumped out of bed frantically and gasped, trying to catch my breath as much as I could. My hands were shaking to no extent of stopping, my heart kept palpitating quickly, my lungs felt constricted off the air it used to have, and my entire body was covered in sweat. I shakily reached for the glass of water next to me and began drinking it slowly, trying my best not to drop it. After I finished drinking, I placed the glass back where it belonged.

I took a deep breath and sighed, doing the process repeatedly until I calm down. A minute later and my condition was stabilized, no more shaking, no more palpitating, and no more sweating. I looked around the second I calmed down and saw a room of a happy young man living a simple life.

"Just a dream..." I muttered under my breath, trying to remember what it was about. It was no use though, my memory of it is slowly fading away but the sensation still remained. I scratched the back of my head in disbelief of the nightmare I just had.

I stared blankly at my blanket that was still covering me, trying to remember what the nightmare was. "I've been having way too much of these nightmares lately." I said aloud, afterward faking a laugh. "I think I need to see a doctor or something..." I added, still thinking if it might be a good idea.

Suddenly, I caught a glimpse of light piercing through the curtains as a gentle wind blows the cover upwards ever so slightly through the already open window. Coming from the outside I could hear the sound of roosters calling out, signaling that it was already morning. I joyfully leaped out of bed the moment I heard the call and walked towards my window where imposed aside the curtains revealing the dawn of a new day.

Gazing out of the window I watch the sun slowly rise from the horizon as its rays of light kissed my cheeks ever so warming my soul. The gentle breeze brushed upon my skin as it entered my room, filling me with delight. I took a deep breath and stretched to my heart's content, "Today's a brand new day!" I declared in rather a quiet manner. Waking up to the scenery of Wellspring Town really gets me going.

A typical Monday morning for me starts with a nice and relaxing stretch to loosen up some muscles, followed up by a soothing bath to freshen things up, and a fulfilling yet hearty breakfast made by the landlady for all tenants. Afterward, I head back to my room again to get ready and suit up for my job.

I open my closet to grab a shirt and some pants to wear then closed it again to keep the moths out. After putting on my outfit, I walked towards the armor stand, grabbed my complete set and put it on. I then walked in front of the mirror to check if everything is alright. After checking, I decided to head out and walk towards my designated post.

You see, my job is a being a town's guard and as one of the town's protectors it is my duty to make sure that none of its citizens get hurt. Which is why I have to arrive early at my designated post and change shifts with the other guard on night duty, this is so he can rest and have a new set of eyes looking out for trouble.

Soon after a nice stroll through the main streets of the town, I caught a glimpse of the towns famous bakery opening. The alluring aroma of freshly baked bread brought me into the shop without realizing it. I looked around and saw the store's owner looking at me with a grin. So, I smiled back, awkwardly.

"Well look who we got here. If it ain't Mr. Crux of the town's guard." Mrs. Rea jested. I scratched the back of my head, "Good morning to you too, Mrs. Rea. Haha..." I greeted her, politely. She let out a fine chuckle upon hearing my response. "Off to work, again?" She asked. But before I could reply, "Isn't today supposed to be your day off?" She added.

"Well, today's assigned guard got sick and needed a temporary replacement. So yesterday I volunteered to take over for him. The chief agreed to it and here I am now." I explained. "What are you? A workaholic? Xander, you should learn to rest sometimes." Mrs. Rea scolded me. "I'll keep that in mind." I told her which she replied with a sigh.

Mrs. Rea then went inside the kitchen and came out a few seconds later with some freshly baked bread and handed it to me. "Here you go! Don't finish them all in one seating." She joked, making me chuckle a little. "Don't worry, I won't." I replied, handing her my payment. She pushed my hand back and said: "This one's on the house for being a good kid." then signaled me to head out.

Before l left the bakery I waved at her and said: "Thank you!" before closing the door behind me. Then I stashed the baked goods into my satchel and walked towards my destination.


(People of the Land: Mrs. Rea Ericson is the owner of "Baker's Pride", a well-known bakery located in the business district of town. She is a kind, upbeat, middle-aged woman who loves conversing with her customers as much as baking pastries. She has a daughter who is currently working in the Kingdom of Akricul. She has medium, red hair, brown eyes, freckles, tan-ish skin, and a chunky body. She normally wears a red dress paired with a white apron and red doll shoes.)


A few minutes later, I arrived at my destination earlier than expected. The guard there was just about to pack his things for the day when he saw me approaching him. When I was close enough, I saluted as a sign of respect which he responded by saluting back.

"You're rather early. Weren't you supposed to arrive here an hour later?" the guard asked. "Well, you know what they say, 'The early bird catches the worm!'" I said. The guard just looked at me and chuckled a bit, "You might be one of the most interesting kids I've seen so far. Arriving earlier than expected is not what most of the kids these days do." he said while packing his things.

I then gave him some of the bread I got from the bakery before he left for the day. He smiled at me and gave me a nice pat on the back, he waved his hand at me as he left the post, leaving me to be all by myself. You see, unlike the guards located at the main gate, my job was to keep watch over the entrance to the Mayor's household.

Like any political leaders, the Mayor was an important part of society, without him social order may be disrupted and the town may fall to ruin. Which is why his home is to protect at all costs. Although there are multiple guards inside the household, my job is to just simply open and close the household's gate. It may sound boring but a job is still a job, and I love my job.

With that being said my usual shift now begins. As the sun rises higher into the sky, more and more people fill up the streets signaling that the town is now awake and working. This also indicates that potential threats are now out there, therefore I must stay vigilant. From the small and comfy outpost the Mayor had built for the "Gatekeeper", I keep a keen eye out for suspicious individuals or perhaps open up the gates for those who have business with the Mayor. And yes, I am called a "Gatekeeper".


Hours passed and it was already time for lunch as the bell tower ringer all throughout the town, signaling everyone that it is now Midday. The household maid who is in charge of the guards' food had brought to me my lunch. It was honestly nice of the Mayor to think of serving food to his guards at the appointed time.

I may sound like I'm praising the Mayor too much but in reality, this is just how the old man is. This the whole reason why up until now, he is still the Mayor. The townsfolk love him and so does his employees and coworkers. Though gramps may be a little out whack sometimes, due to his age. He is still trusted and beloved by all.

Enough with the Mayor, it's time to eat and my share of food. A few minutes later, I have completely finished my meal and am currently waiting for the amid to pick it up. I am so full that it's making feel kind of sleepy, actually. But I have to fight it or else I won't be to do my job properly.

A few more hours past and it was already dusk, the sun was slowly disappearing behind the mountains and the street lights have already turned itself on. An hour more and my shift should be ending soon, with that I begin to pack my things. As I did so, I noticed that there was a carriage approaching the household so I went out to greet them personally.

I stood near the gate as the carriage came to a halt, recognizing my authority as "Gatekeeper". The carriage looked astoundingly elegant with its shiny white coating, it's interesting golden carvings and it's professionally crafted design. But the thing the catches my attention the most was the "Family Crest" attached to the carriage, meaning that this belonged to the household.

"What would be your business here, good sir?" I asked the driver. He stepped down from his seat and bowed, "I am simply here to drop off Milady." he said. "Okay then, just show me your ID and I'll let you through." I told him. He then reached for his pocket and pulled out his ID, showing he is a licensed driver of the family. "You may enter." I said, opening the gate to let them in.

He bowed once more and got on the carriage as it moved inside. It was almost past the gate when it suddenly stopped. I looked over to see what was the problem and as I drew closer, I could hear the driver conversing with the person inside the carriage. I don't know what they were talking about but the driver was pretty distressed about it, judging from the way I heard him talk.

Suddenly, the conversation died down and the driver was now quiet. He then got off his seat and walked towards the carriage door and opened it. A young lady then exited the carriage, she was wearing robe which was embroidered by golden strings.

From my perspective, it seemed that this lady was special not only because of her looks but by the garment she wore. I mean what I said sounds the same but what I mean is that the only people allowed to wear such thing are mages of a high class. That is exactly what I'm seeing now, I'm pretty honored honestly to be in such a presence.

Anyways, the lady now stood motionless on the leveled ground as if admiring something she hasn't seen in a long time. It was okay at first, I only thought she got out to admire the place or something but it changed when she shifted her gaze towards me. The moment she did, I felt a chill up my spine like something bad was going to happen to me.

Her expressionless face and cold stare gave me the chills. To make matters worse, she began walking in my direction. Soon, she was just three steps away from me and the vibe she gave me was bothering me a lot. But as a guard, it is my duty to communicate with someone that may need of my assistance, even if I feel totally awkward around them.

I looked at her dead in the eye, "Is there perhaps a problem you are in need of my assistance, Milady?" I asked with a warm expression. There was a long pause before she said something. "Might your name be, Xander Crux?" she asked. Without a second thought, I replied, "Why yes I am! Xander Crux at your service, Milady." and bowed to show respect.

After I bowed, I looked at her again and to my surprise may have seen an entirely different person. Why? Well unlike the cold and lifeless person a while ago, this one was brimming with energy and joy. It may have been my imagination but when I looked at her again, I think I saw a faint glimmer in her eye. Must be me hallucinating again, it should go away once I calm down.

Anyways, with her new form revealed she was now smiling at me like there was no tomorrow, "Milady? Are you perhaps alright?" I asked, feeling slightly concerned about the sudden mood swing. She just shook her head, confusing whether she was alright or that she was not. As I pondered on how to access this situation, I was suddenly met with a warm embrace.

This startled me a crap ton, I was not used to this kind of treatment. Is this a prank that was set up by my colleagues? Probably. Setting that aside, I was still being hugged by someone I don't know with a reason I don't even know about. She then leaned closer to my ear, "I am so glad to see you, how missed you so..." she whispered, making my heart palpitate.

This is getting slightly nerve-racking so I tapped her back signaling for her to let go, "Oh sorry, I let my emotions get the hold of me." she apologized with a smile. I scratched the back of my head, "It's...okay." I said, even if it's not. "Good to see that you're well, how was this last eight years been for you?" she asked, confusing me. I have no idea what she's talking about but I'll play along for now.

"It was good, though nothing much eventful happened..." I replied. "Wonderful! But judging from your reply it seems you don't know what is going on, right?" she said. I didn't know I'd be discovered this easily. But it seems I was caught red-handed. "You know, lying to your superiors might end up getting you in trouble." she said.

I gulped, "I apologize for my actions, I just didn't know what to do on the spur of the moment." I told her, making her chuckle. She cuffed her arms below her assets and tilted her head slightly, "So you pretended to know me, even when you didn't?" she asked. "Forgive my ignorance for not knowing who you are." I apologized.

She giggled at my remark, "Even after all these years, you are still the same Xander I've known." she said. "Pardon?" I asked. I still did not know what was going on. "Well, it has been eight years since we last saw each other. Perhaps this will jog your memory, chubster." she stated, revealing a bracelet beneath her sleeve stitched with the name 'Xander' on it.

Upon hearing the word 'chubster' and seeing the bracelet on her wrist my mind snapped. I looked at my wrist which had the same bracelet on but with the name 'Mella' instead. It's not that I forgot her, it's just that I didn't recognize her at all. I facepalmed at the thought that I didn't realize and recognized that I was talking to my childhood friend all along. I felt so ashamed, seeing my reaction Mella couldn't help but giggle in delight.

My face was flushed, I couldn't bear thinking that I didn't recognize her one bit while she was able to tell it was me at first. "You okay there, chubster?" she teased, giggling as she pleased. "Okay, you got me. You got me good, Mella Espring." I muttered, sighing afterward. But seriously, I couldn't recognize her at all since she looked so different from before.

"The moment I realized you didn't recognize me was the moment I decided to mess with you a bit. Your reaction was astounding." Mella said, delightfully. "Whatever, you honestly look different from when I last saw you." I said which picked her interest. "Oh? And what may the difference be?" she asked, teasingly as she placed her arms below her assets. "Probably your height, face and especially your hair. You used to have short hair, so of course, you looked different." I replied.

There was a pause, I looked at her and noticed that she was displeased with my answer. "What?" I asked. "Nothing, you definitely got it right." She muttered with a disappointed look. Honestly, I would have also said boobs but never mind. "With that kind of attitude, I doubt you'll ever get married." she stated. Okay, this girl is seriously making fun of me the moment she saw me.

I sighed, "Anyways, why didn't you tell me you were heading home?" I asked, knowing that she usually sends me letters. "I just merely wanted to surprise you. Knowing that you didn't know what my appearance is." she explained. "Honestly..." I muttered. This girl, ever since we were kids she was the type of person who loves surprises to the extent she would hide in a box for a day to scare you. Seriously, she did it to me and the results were both terrible and fantastic.

I sighed, "Glad to see you again, Mella." I said. "I'm glad to see you too, Xander." Mella replied. I looked at her again and this time we both embraced each other with delight at our sudden reunion. She then let go, "It would be best if we were to continue this conversation of ours inside." She told me. "Perhaps, but I still got your left before my shift ends. I suggest you go on ahead." I told her which she nodded in agreement.


Mella began walking towards the carriage when suddenly an arrow landed before her, causing her to step back a bit. The moment I saw this, I immediately activated "Keen Sense" enhancing my reaction time and heightening all my senses. On the other hand, Mella started chanting an incantation of some sort that created a magic barrier around the carriage. Typical of her to protect others before herself.

Both of us stood vigilant, waiting for their next attempt to attack. Presuming that they would try again. The atmosphere was silent and the surrounding area was empty. "Something isn't right here." I whispered to Mella who was leaning against my back. "Indeed, I also sense a faint presence of magic lurking around." Mella whispered back.

Suddenly, the image of what seems to be the town streets began to ripple. "What is happening?" I asked. "It must be some kind of illusion magic." Mella answered. Several men then appeared from the ripples by walking through the water-like image of the streets. One by one the men blocked off all possible exit points. They wore black cloaks that covered their entire body, a white half mask and were heavily armed. Some of them held staffs while the others carried a bow or a dagger.

"I'm guessing YOU are their target?" I asked Mella. She sighed, "I guess so. You know how people try to dispose of Dad and me." She replied, positioning herself close to my rear. From the looks of it, we were completely surrounded by these assassins but oddly enough none of them attacked us. Then the illusion began to ripple again as faint laughter can be heard from within.

Entering the stage was another cloaked man, but this time it seems that this one was the ring leader. The other assassins gave way to him as he walked passed them with seemingly amused by what he sees. "Well look who we have here?" the man said, clapping his hand slowly with delight. "If it isn't the Mayor's daughter. It's such an honor to finally meet you." he said, sarcastically.

Mella was glaring daggers which amused him some more. "My what a fierce gaze you got there. It's not good for a lady such as yourself to look like that, it might ruin your pretty face." He joked. "What do you want? And how did you know I was arriving today?" Mella asked, fiercely. The man's tone suddenly changed from delighted to serious, "You very much know why we're here, 'Fate's Perception'?" He asked her. "How did you-?!" she replied but got caught off. "We have our...sources. Also, this is the same answer to your second question so I hope you're satisfied." he explained.

While all of this happening, I began scanning the surrounding area for a possible way to get out of this predicament. Looking around, I noticed that one area was somehow different from the rest. There were a bit more foes clustered together near the arrow that missed Mella than the other spots. This allowed me to deduct that the arrow was somehow an important factor to this ambush. It might the reason why there seems to be some kind of illusion barrier around us.

I noticed that Mella's hand was clenched, signaling me that a fight will be surely brewing soon. "It seems you won't be cooperating with us. I guess we'll have to take by force." He stated as his lackeys took fighting form. "You ready to wallop?" Mella asked, "Definitely!" I declared. "Get them!" he ordered as his men began to attack.

The entirety of the group lunged towards us, brandishing their poison coated daggers. Mella quickly cast a spell, "Swift Gale!" she announced, sending the attackers flying with a gust of wind. The enemy immediately counter-attacked with a barrage of elemental magic while the spell was still in effect. Noticing this I grabbed my shield, "Guardian's Bubble" I declared, blocking all the spells with my bubble.

I was able to successfully protect both of us but they managed to weaken my bubble. Seeing this as an opportunity, the other attackers rushed for this chance. They thrust their weapons into the bubble and destroyed it, forgetting its extremely notable characteristic. The bubble then exploded upon impact, damaging everyone around it. Some managed to survive the blast but those who were to close to it received the full blow. A nice chunk of their forces has been incapacitated.

Slightly annoyed their leader ordered those in the back to engage the enemy, this included those guarding the arrow. "Arrow..." I muttered to Mella. Understanding my intention she nodded, "Go, I'll back you up." she replied. I grabbed my sheathed sword, "Rapid Flow" I muttered. She then began casting spells one after another, knocking several enemies and gradually wearing their forces. I took this chance and dashed towards the arrow, smacking a few idiots along the way. I arrived at the arrow and saw that it was somehow rooted to the pavement by some kind of spell.

I was about to pull it out when Mella's scream caught my attention. I turned around and saw that the enemy leader had her pinned down with a knife directed at her throat. Several bodies were knocked out and several injuries can be seen on the enemies body. "Hey! Let her go!" I demanded, pointing my sword at him. He chuckled, "Oh? Why should I?" he asked, caressing her neck with the knife. "If I were you, I'd give up by now and do as I say. Unless you don't care what happens to this young lady." he said, grinning ever so joyfully. I clenched my sword in hand as I tried to access the situation.

"Mella wouldn't be as easily defeated by some random mage assassin. Judging from her spells and the way she controlled it suggest that she is a strong mage." I thought. Then I noticed a broken potion bottle near Mella, as well as her weakened expression and inability to speak. "She was hit by a potion of weakness?!" I concluded.

"What a dirty trick! Well...it is in their field of expertise, but still!" I thought. Anyway, Mella was still in trouble so I had to do something but with limited options what am I supposed to do? I decided that I'd play along first then wait for an opening to strike. "Okay, I give up. What do you want me to do?" I said, trying to convince him I had given up. Mella gave me a confused look, I shook my head in response.

"So you've come to your senses. Good, good." he said. "Just tell me what I need to do." I demanded. "I see your eager, okay then. Your task is simple, I don't want you reporting this incident to the authorities and I want you to step out of this area and pretend nothing occurred here." he told me. I nodded and began stepping back, Mella's eyes suddenly grew wider as she saw me leaving. I know she's starting to panic but I need to keep the act together for it to work.

When I was almost near the 'exit' the leader pulled Mella up, turned around and began chanting a spell. The ground beneath them began to lit up as a bunch of runes appeared around them. My sweat dropped, I realized he was a casting a teleportation spell and that I had a few seconds before they vanished. It was now or never, I cast "Rapid Flow" and dashed towards them with a sword ready.

When I was in the range of him, I swung at him with full force. I thought I got him but alas at point-blank range he dodged my attack and counter-attacked by stabbing me in the chest, at that point I felt a weird sensation and came to a halt. The wind I picked up caused a small dust cloud to form around the area, blocking our field of vision. I can hear him laughing, "You thought you could outsmart me? Ha! Think again, boy! I'm far more experienced than you are, I know every cheap and dirty trick a naive towns guard like you wouldn't know." he boasted delightfully, feeling extremely accomplished.

I also heard Mella sobbing, "Xander..." she muttered. The dude laughed again and decided to pull out his dagger from my chest, he tugged on it but it didn't come out. He tried again but couldn't pull it out, "What the?! How is it stuck?!" he exclaimed, rather pissed. I chuckled which surprised both him and Mella, "I think I know why." I announced.

The dust cloud cleared out and revealed that his dagger was caught by the bracelet I was wearing. The edge did manage to hit my chest but failed to land a fatal blow. "Impossible!" he declared, looking at me in disbelief. I just looked back and immediately disarmed him by hooking the dagger properly onto my bracelet and yoinking it out from his very own hands. I quickly jabbed him in the stomach with my sword which made him loosen his grip on Mella, then smacked the back of his head with my hilt to knock him out. With that, the turmoil has ended.

I approached Mella and knelt, "Are you okay?" I asked. "For now...I suggest you pull out that arrow before trouble arrives." she told me. I nodded and turned around to see that the arrow has been uprooted from the pavement. "Looks like it was already uprooted during my dash..." I said, "What a lucky break!" I added, joyfully. Now with the arrow uprooted, the spell cast upon surrounding area is now slowly wearing off.

A minute later, the spell finally wore off and the bustling streets of Wellspring Town were what greeted us. With the current scene surrounding both Mella and I, several of the townsfolk began to gather around the area out of curiosity. Passing through the crowd was my replacement for the shift, he has finally arrived. "Mr. Crux! What's going on here?" he asked, witnessing several bodies piled up on the streets. I took a deep breath and sighed, "It's a long story...just get to your post and contact the others." I told him.

He looked at me then at Mella, "What about you? What do you intend to do, sir?" he asked, "I'll just escort her home, nothing too big." I replied. "Okay then! I'll do as you say." he declared, saluting with due respect. Afterward, he went to his station and contacted the other guards. I, on the other hand, accompanied Mella on the carriage, making sure she does not get attacked again. And with luck seemingly by our side, nothing bad happened on our way to the Espring household.


(People of the Land: Mella Espring is the Mayor's daughter and my childhood friend. She has a laidback, serious and playful personality but she's definitely a nice person once you get to know her, despite her somehow contradicting personalities. She went to study magic for eight years in the Kingdom of Inhasyn. She has long, blonde hair, blue eyes, fair skin, and a slender body. She normally wears frilly dresses of different colors paired with doll shoes but as a mage she wears a white robe with golden accents.)


Upon reaching the household, I aided Mella in getting off the carriage since she was feeling really weak from the potion used on her. The two guards by the main entrance saw this and immediately approached us with concerned looks on their faces. "Are you alright?" the guard to right asked, "What happened to you two?" the other one asked. I gave them a brief explanation of the current predicament.

After telling them about what had occurred outside the household, they immediately took action. Marco, which was the guard who asked if we were alright assisted my efforts to help Mella walk. Samson, Marco's companion went in and reported the incident to the Mayor. Right after Samson went in, Mella and I were escorted to the household's infirmary.

Lucky for us that the infirmary wasn't too far away since I didn't know how much more can Mella take. Upon seeing us, the nurse quickly yet gently dragged us to separate beds for us to be treated. Since I wasn't the most injured I told the nurse to treat Mella's affliction and wounds first. The nurse nodded in agreement and went to her side first. She was given a glass of milk to get rid of the potion's effect then her wounds were applied an ointment and patched up.

Mella's face loosened up as she fell asleep right after the treatment. She may be tough but it takes a lot of stamina to fight the effect of a Potion of Weakness, seeing her in that state wasn't easy for me, all I could do was comfort her. I sighed in relief as I saw her relaxed sleeping face. The nurse covered her with a blanket and pulled the curtains around her bed. The nurse then approached me and began treating my wounds as well. Soon after, I was discharged so I decided to head home as I may be a nuisance here.

I walked along the hallway and was almost near the door when a raspy yet familiar voice called out from above, "Hey sonny! Where do you think you're going?" it asked. I sighed, "I was about to go home, sir." I replied, nonchalantly. I then heard a 'thud' behind me and looked around to see a tall, bald, frail-looking, old man with a long white beard. "I suggest you stay here for the night, after all, you're a friend is still recovering." the old man suggested, rubbing his beard. "I think it'll be best if I see her tomorrow when she has fully recovered. I mean she is extremely tired and it would be rude of me to bother her now. Right, Mr. Mayor?" I asked which raised his eyebrow.

"Perhaps. But you do know why I still need you here, right?" He asked. "I know you want to hear the full report coming from the actual victim/witness." I replied. "That and another important matter shall be discussed. So, follow me to my office." he said, jumping back up on the second floor and walking away. I shrugged, "That man never does change..." I muttered. Seriously, this old dude always loved to parkour ever since I was young. I even watched him use it in combat, making him an extremely agile fighter.

There was no point in refusing so I followed after him and walked up the stairs to the second floor where his office is located. I knocked on his office door, "Come in!" he announced from the other side in a cheerful tone. Opening the door I saw him sitting behind his mahogany desk with a rather cheery smile. He gestured me to take a seat, "Don't be shy, take a seat." he said. I walked closer to his desk and sat on one of the two chairs placed before it. "This is a rather comfy chair..." I thought, feeling blissful.

He looked at me and smiled, "Comfy, isn't it?" he asked. I just don't know how this man read my thoughts, am I such an open book to read? I sighed, "So, what do you want to know?" I asked which turned his expression serious. He placed his hands on the desk, "Tell me everything you know and heard from them..." he told me. So, I told him everything I knew and heard in a simple yet elaborate way.

"Basically, an arrow landed in an area which caused some illusion barrier of some sort that prevented unauthorized outsiders from coming in. Then they attacked you and tried to take Mella with them." he summarized, "Anything else?" he asked. I tried to remember more of what occurred there, then I recalled saying a word that caught my attention. "When Mella asked them what they wanted, I recalled their leader calling her Fate's Perception." I told him which gave him a surprised and worried expression.

"Are you sure that's what he called her?" he asked. I nodded, "Yes. I'm very sure that's what he said." I replied. For a long while, the Mayor was quiet as he rubbed his temples trying to comprehend something. "Mr. Espring? Is something the matter?" I asked, somewhat worried. He took a deep breath and sighed, "This, I did not anticipate would happen." He muttered in disbelief. I looked at him feeling both concerned and worried, "What's the matter, Mr. Espring?" I asked.

"Xander, you do know that there are multiple forms of magical abilities, some of which are basic while others are unique." Mr. Espring said as I nodded in agreement. "Now, what do you know about a diviner?" he asked. "I only know that it has something to do with celestial power and predicting the future." I replied. "Correct, Diviners have the power to predict the future with the use of celestial powers. But my daughter is a special case." he said. "What do you mean by that?" I asked still confused.

"You see...Diviners can only see glimpses of the natural worlds near possible future. Mella, on the other hand, can see an elaborate and detailed version of many possible futures." Mr. Espring said. I was dumbfounded to hear that my friend possesses such ability that I couldn't mutter a word. "However, it does not end there. This vision of hers can also be applied to living things and inanimate objects." he added. "So you mean, she can read anyone or anything's future with this ability?!" I exclaimed. Mr. Espring gestured me to keep quiet and calm down.

I took deep breaths and tried to calm down, "I still can't believe she has something this significant on her." I said, still trying to comprehend everything I've learned. Mr. Espring sighed, "Yeah, if only it would stop there." he muttered. My eyes widened upon hearing his words, "There's more?!" I exclaimed. Again he gestured me to calm down, so I did. I still looked at him with utter shock though.

"This is the most terrifying part about her ability." he said, menacingly. I gulped, "What is it?" I asked, nervously. "S-she saw t-that she w-was..." he paused as he's body shivered. I began sweating uncontrollably from the tension, my palms we're literally covered in sweat. "She w-was what?" I stuttered. He took a deep breath, "She was getting married!" he shouted, slamming the desk.

I blinked twice, trying to comprehend what I just heard. Did I really just hear him say that the worst part of her ability was that his daughter saw her own marriage. The tension in the room died down thanks to the Mayor's sudden outburst about his daughters' marriage. "Congratulations, I guess?" I told him. "No! I do not accept this future of hers. I refuse to accept it!" he blurted out, walking towards a conveniently placed training dummy. "I think it's about time you calmed down Mr. Espring..." I suggested. He looked at me with rage-filled eyes, "I will not calm down. I won't allow any man to take my baby girl away from me, never! Whoever he is, he's already dead!" he declared as he threw several punches at the dummy, breaking off its arms in the process.

A couple of guards came to check what was causing the ruckus and saw the Mayor punching a dummy, powerfully. I looked at them, "Don't worry, he's just ventilating his anger on the dummy from the thought of his daughter getting married." I explained. They looked at each other worriedly and left, I also happen to hear one of them say: "Good luck ever getting a chance with Lady Mella..." to the other. "Good luck indeed..." I muttered.

All throughout his raging, I just sat near his table and enjoyed some complimentary snacks while watching him. After a while, Mr. Espring finally calmed down with a completely devastated training dummy by his side. For an old dude, he still freaking packs a punch. He then takes a seat and exhales, "Okay, where we're we again?" he asked. "I think we were approaching the part where you tell me what she's called." I said. Seriously, I still don't know what to call her since she's not actually a regular diviner.

"Ah yes! She's simply called a Clairvoyant," he said. "I see..." I muttered. Well, at least I know what to call her. "Anyways, I'm assuming that this was the reason why we were attacked. And that the information about her ability leaked out somehow which is why she is being targeted now." I said, putting the pieces together. "You really catch up quick, don't you?" he asked. "Well, I somehow did learn from the best." I said. "I guess you did." he replied, nodding.

"So, what's the plan now?" I asked. "Well, the plan at first was to let her finish her studies and master her power in the Kingdom of Inhasyn. After that, she will be sent to the Kingdom of Ysanctia where she will be taken in by the Holy Church. But..." he paused. "But what?" I asked. "But with current circumstances, she has to be sent immediately to Ysanctia where she shall be protected at all costs." he said. "So, why is she here then?" I asked. "Well, she needs to gather and fix some of her documents for her transfer. She also said that she wanted to see the town and you again before she leaves." he told me. "How'd you know all this?" I asked. "It was written in the letter she sent me a few days ago." he said. That makes sense then.

"How long will she be here?" I asked. "Only three days. I was planning to let her stay longer but with the current situation, it's best for her to leave as quick as possible." He said. "How about her transportation?" I asked. "Don't worry, I'll have some of the guards escort her along with some trusted adventurers from the guild." he replied. I sighed, "Good to know she will be having much protection." I said. Mr. Espring chuckled, "If I could only leave town and escort her myself, I would have done it already." he said. "Sadly, I can't go since I'm busy with the town and the newly caught individuals." he said.

"But that's all for now! Thank you for sharing your side of the story." he said, extending out his hand. I took hold of his hand and shook it, "No problem, it's my pleasure." I thanked him. Finally, it's over and I can go home now. So without a second a thought I stood up, walked toward the door and was about to leave when he called me out, again. "Why don't you stay for dinner? I mean, Mella won't be here for long so why don't you come to eat with us? I'm sure she'll be delighted." he suggested.

It was a good idea so I agreed to it, "Just this once, okay? We may be close but I still think it's shameful of me to eat with you. I am a still a towns guard." I reminded him. He laughed, "You never change, now do you? He asked. Before I left the room, he told me to either wait in the guest room or check on Mella. I told him I'd check on her instead, so I walked towards the infirmary.


(People of the Land: Mr. Bobby Espring aka Mr. Bob or Mr. Espring is the Wellspring Town's Mayor and also my Uncle. He is a kind, funny, helpful and somewhat crazy person. He is also overly protective of his only daughter. He was also a renowned Martial Artist in his youth which makes him an extremely skilled combatant. He is bald, tall, tan-ish and has a somewhat lean body for his age. He usually wears a plain colored polo paired with shorts and slippers.)


I then arrived at the infirmary but no one seemed to be around. I'm guessing the nurse went out to do something first so I let myself in. I saw that the curtains were still pulled around Mella so she's probably still asleep. It'd be rude to wake her up so I walked quietly towards it to check how she's doing. Honestly, I think that it would be better if the curtains were a bit more see-through, that way it would be easier to tell if the patient is still resting or awake. But with the current curtains, I have to get closer and see for myself.

When I was near the bedside, I pushed the curtain gently out of the way to see how she was doing. And with that I saw that she was doing fine, she was fully recovered from her injuries and was already awake. In fact, she was already wiping her body clean with a wet towel down her exposed back. She then looked around and noticed me staring at her.

Mella gasped, "Xander? What are you doing here?!" she exclaimed. "Sorry, I just came to check how you were doing..." I replied and quickly pulled back the curtain. "I'll let you finish up." I told her. She giggled behind the curtain, "Embarrassed, aren't you? Didn't expect to see your friend naked behind the curtains, didn't you?" she teased. I sighed, "Suprised would be correct, embarrassed would be wrong. I do admit it was rude of me to push aside the curtains without asking, but I was not the least bit embarrassed from seeing you." I told her. "You're no fun! How could you even stay unaffected after seeing a pretty lady such as myself naked! she exclaimed while pouting I presume. "You were half-naked to be precise. Also, there's nothing much to be embarrassed just by looking at you." I said then walked toward the couch. "If you need me just call out, okay? I'll just be sitting on the couch." I announced.

Seriously, does that girl have no shame? I know we're childhood friends and all but going as far as to tease me with her body is just wrong. I can admit to myself that she has a good figure to show but still! She should at least been embarrassed by her demeanor. I sighed, thinking that she might do this to other people as well. I am honestly worried about her well-being as much as her current safety. I rubbed my temples, this is giving me a headache.

I heard some shuffling from behind her curtains, "Xander? You still there?" she called out. "Yes! I'm still here." I replied, standing up. "I need your help with something!" she announced. "Sure." I said. So, I walked towards her infirmary bed. "What is it?" I asked. "Could you help wipe off my sweat?." she replied. I blinked twice, "Is this a joke? Or are you serious?" I asked, feeling troubled. "It's not a joke! I'm serious here, I can't reach far away parts." she retorted, "Alright, alright, don't go getting mad at me just because I was being cautious." I told her.

"Okay, I'm coming in." I informed her, pushing aside the curtains. I then saw her half-naked body with her back facing me. Beside her were a towel and a bucket of water. She looked at me and smiled, "Could you close the curtain?" she asked as I pulled the curtain back. Now it was just me and a half-naked Clairvoyant hidden behind some curtains in an infirmary, definitely not suspicious or awkward at all.

She shot me with a seductive(?) look, "It's just you and me now..." she muttered. I grabbed the towel next to me, "Yup, so let's get this over with before anyone sees us." I said. "My oh my...aren't you quite excited to this?" she teased. "I'm not. I just don't want people getting the wrong impression of us." I told her.

Now, Mella was sitting upright and it was rather difficult for me to wipe her back in this position. So without a second thought, I pulled her face down on the bed which surprised her. "No need to rush, just take it easy." she said. I began scrubbing her back as quick as possible. She moaned a bit from the shock, "Not too rough~" she said. "Then don't make weird sounds!" I scolded as a smile crept on her face. Just great, she's going to make more sounds.

I was dead right about it. For the past five minutes, she would make weird statements or moaned in an erotic manner as I scrubbed her back. I kid you not, her making weird noises was what made this hard. Regardless of what happened, I was still able to finish the task and that made me happy. Helping her out is the least I could do before we part ways, again.

With that, I took the bucket and towel with me so I can clean it. I exited the cramped space and pulled the curtains back. I'm glad it was over before anyone came. I was pretty tired from scrubbing her in more ways than one, though it seems that she was the most exhausted of all.

A few minutes later, a maid arrived with some of Mella's clothes and gave it to her. The maid also told me that dinner is ready and that Mr. Espring is waiting for us. I thanked her before she left the room. I waited for Mella to dress up, thinking it was only an evening gown so it shouldn't take long. I was wrong, it took like another five minutes for her to come out. Seriously, how come girls take so long just to change clothes? I will never understand that logic.

Anyways, Mella finally comes out wearing a pink evening gown. I then accompanied her to the dining room where her father was waiting for us. Nothing much happened, we just had a nice conversation and some delicious food. After that, Mella decides to go to bed as she was already sleepy but she gave me hug first before going to her room though. Mr. Espring then accompanied me to the front door to say goodbye but not without a few words.

"Last chance. Yes or no?" Mr. Espring asked. "No." I answered. He sighed, "I don't know whether or not you're just being stubborn or humble." he told me. "I just think you're biased about your decision. It doesn't mean that he 'raised' me means that you can just ignore those who were already in service of you. They have far more experience than I do, I just think that they deserve it first before I do." I explained. "You really are a good kid. And I hope you remain that way." he said, patting me I the back.

"I'll be on my way now. Thanks for the hospitality again." I said as I walked away. "Catch!" he shouted, throwing me a sealed document which I caught. "I'd like you to deliver that to 'him' tomorrow, okay?" he told me. I nodded, "Inventory." I muttered as a magical frame containing several empty boxes appeared before me. I then placed the document in one of the boxes and snapped my fingers to get rid of it. I looked back at him and waved before actually leaving the vicinity.

It was already late when I left the household. The sky was pretty dark as the stars and moon shined from above. I walked through the garden and past the gate where I greeted the guard a 'good evening ' before walking away. My apartment was a bit far from here but it was alright. There was nothing to worry as the streets were illuminated by glowstone lamps. With this, no mobs can spawn in town which made night time a little less scary and difficult for everyone.

I walked past several closed establishment and stores. Several people walked the streets but it was mostly empty. Everyone was resting peacefully in their homes. I sighed thinking that I'd be best if everything would just remain peaceful. I pondered on that thought for a while as I walked home. Soon, I arrived at my apartment without even realizing it. As sleepy as I already am, I entered my home and immediately fell asleep the moment my head touches the pillow.


The next day I woke up rather late which was fine, it is my day off. I then remembered I had to deliver something important, so I dragged my sleepy ass over to the bathroom to freshen up and get ready. Afterward, I put on my clothes for the day and went to the stables. I arrived shortly after and took my horse, got on him and rode out of town to deliver the document. My destination was near Lake Latsyrc where the man who raised me lives.

On my way there, I happen to pass by several beautiful sceneries and landscapes I haven't seen in a while. The air was extremely fresh and the wind the blew against me felt good, "This pure bliss." I thought. 30 minutes later, I passed by a couple of travelers on their way to town as well as some merchants who often come to trade or sell their goods. Soon after, I spot the lake from afar. I smiled upon seeing it, "I hope you're doing well..." I muttered as the horse galloped towards my destination.


Author's Note: That's it for now! I hope you enjoyed the story. If you have anything to say about it, don't be afraid to leave a comment. I accept all forms of criticism, opinions, and compliments. I hope you all have a wonderful day. Thank you and God bless! :)