Prologue
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The world is never as simple as black and white. In between there are many shades of grey. Yet mankind often overlooks these shades, and true darkness lingered and consumed the minds of innocents. Lies, deception, betrayal, these are some of the most loyal servants of darkness. However, despite all of the corruption in the world, a flame of hope still burns.
It was the era of war, fear, and death. No one is safe. The darkness had spread, and white is but only a small candle in the sea of black. It was a period where ruthless ruled and brutality controlled.
Rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, ram, money, rooster, dog, and boar…
The moon was full and the stars filled the wide space above for miles. Twelve hooded figures stood in the middle of the forest underneath the night sky, huddled together, circling a burning fire.
Each person's robe was embossed with the image of the zodiac, as the golden imprint glow softly in the flickering flames.
"Have you not heard the news, Brothers and Sisters?" the figure embossed with the symbol of the Boar squealed nervously. "The darkness is trying to engulf the light." His hands twitched apprehensively at his side.
Many head nodded in answer.
"Of course, Brother Boar," Tiger growled in annoyance, "the news had traveled far."
An air of tension filled the atmosphere.
"Are we not going to interfere?" Dog asked anxiously.
Rat snorted, "Why should we concern ourselves? No offer had been proposed as of yet."
Snake nodded eagerly in agreement as she was always one who loves to turn others' misfortune to one's own advantage and benefit.
"I agree with Brother Rat," Snake hissed, "It is their calamity."
Ox shook his head in distaste, "Don't speak of such ill! They are as human as me and you!" scowling at Snake for her tactlessness.
Snake hissed darkly in return.
"Brothers, Sisters!" Dragon thundered. "Let us not argue among ourselves."
The crowd fell silent. Ears strain to hear what their wise leader had to say.
"We shall do as Brother Rat and Sister Snake had suggested," Dragon continued. "We shall not act unless an offer is proposed. Until then, let them suffer for their own ignorance and pride."
The hooded figures nodded harmoniously, "As you say, for we are the Zodiacs, for we control the Guardians, and for we are forever neutral."
Slowly the figures left; the flames dwindled, and faded into the night. The forest became silent and still. A passing wind howled…
The wheel of faith had begun to turn…
Chapter 1
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All he can see was red; everywhere, pouring down likes rain. His parents' lifeless body lay upon the floor. He will never forget the killer's face, covered in blood; insipid eyes stared into his.
"Do you want to die, too?"
In ancient China, there once was a secret society ruled by a council of twelve, called, "The Zodiacs". Their names were only spoken of in legends for they had done great, but terrible things.
It was said that these twelve members seek out potential children to train into "Guardians".
The training was harsh, and cruel. Of the many children that were trained, only a handful survived alive. Still, of the survivors, none left unharmed. Many was scared mentally; scars that will never heal.
Among the Guardians, five ranks were given: Metal, Fire, Water,
Wind, and Earth. Age, experience, blood; nothing matters, it was only through power and skill may they rise in ranks. Everything was earned; nothing was ever given.
For years many officials used the Zodiacs' title to strike fear into their opponents and the public. Many claimed that they are the Guardians. Control through fear couldn't be easier…the world was made to be conquered.
But make no mistakes, the Zodiacs and Guardians serve no one but themselves. Those who claimed or used their title without their consent were subjected to their wrath; many mysteriously disappeared, vanished. After all, they are professionals, and professionals were often merciless, emotionless, and possessive; they are the best. In short, they are killers, murders, assassins. Ruthless to the point; they are well-known for their brutality and anger.
Over the years, the Zodiacs had taken up signed contracts. Only those who are willing to pay the price may call upon their services. Per say they could locate the Zodiacs, that is. Mysterious deaths throughout the several dynasty eras were not uncommon. People trembled in fear from their name.
"The Zodiac Guardians", are a threat to many, and feared by all.
Seth threw the manuscript across the room in frustration. His blue eyes flashed in anger.
"That fool!" he snapped lividly at a young man who lay casual upon his bed, "What does this have anything to do with my parents' murder?"
The said young man muttered tiredly, "How should I know? You hired the fool."
"Yes; however, he was said to be the best detective around," Seth hissed, "not some fairy-tale expert!"
A snort was heard, "Yes, and I supposed he also was said to be a dragon hunter."
"Ken, you are not helping," Seth glared at his best friend.
Ken rolled his eyes, and drawled, "And I suppose the manuscript is," his words lacing with sarcasm.
Seth opened his mouth, then closed it. He couldn't argue with that. Sighing in irritation, Seth gathered the scattered paper from the floor.
Why must things be so hard? He thought sadly, all I wanted was to find the killer. All I wanted, as sense of hatred filled him, was to avenge my parents.
Chapter 2
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Eclipse kneeled with her comrades before the Council in distaste. She does not understand why the Council had called upon all of them. Surely one of them is more than enough to complete a trivial contract.
"My Guardians," Rabbit greeted sweetly, "we had summoned you for a reason."
The Guardians impassively replied almost automatically, "So we shall respond to the Zodiacs." Their voice was void of emotions.
The Councils nodded in acknowledgement.
"Now, my children," Ram announced, "We had news that some people are trying to uncover our secrets," His eyes narrowed darkly. "I am afraid to say, we have a traitor upon us."
The action was almost immediate, all Guardians tensed. Eclipse's hand slid down her calf for her hidden dagger.
Monkey coughed loudly, gaining back everyone's attention, "No need to fret. We are certain that the traitor is not among one of you."
Horse nodded in agreement, "In fact, we are sure that the traitor had already flee and sought protection from outsiders."
"We had a clue, of course, as to who these protectors are," Rooster growled maliciously, "In fact, it was a pleasant surprise, really."
"I want the traitor found and the protectors eliminated," Dragon said calmly and casually as if he was discussing about the weather. "Do I make myself clear?"
A chorus of, "Of course, My Lord," was heard.
"Good," Snake grinned, "Eclipse! Ryuu!" she gestured them forward.
They complied. "My Lady?"
Throwing them each a tick folder, Snake ordered, "These are information of the protectors. You are to penetrate their defense and find out what they already know about us; are there others, who they are, and what they want from us."
"The others," Rat commanded, "are to hunt down the traitor."
Let the hunt began! The unspoken words ringed in everyone's ear.
Let the hunt began…
File #1:
Name: Wu, Seth
Age: 17
Eyes/Hair: Blue/Black
Nationality: Chinese-American (Mix-blood)
Family: Biological parents, Tai Ean and Yue Lian. Adopted parents, Zi Du and Wu Huan.
Background: Orphan at seven. Parent's death was carried out by contract. Seth is heir to STAR corporation.
Current Location: Shanghai, China.
File #2:
Name: Fei Ken
Age: 17
Eyes/Hair: Green/Red
Nationality: Chinese-American (Mix-blood)
Family: Son of Fei Ein and Fein Wuan.
Background: Heir to FLAME corporation.
Current Location: Shanghai, China.