Sik had no idea how any of this happened. It was supposed to be a normal day for him. Wake up, go to school, help his parents out at the deli, and so on. Instead, his normal life got flipped upside down in a matter of hours. It all started when he met an annoying young girl on his way home from school.
The young girl skipped down the road over to him as he was walking home after exiting the bus that he takes to school. Sik thought at first glance that she was dressed for a fancy dress party or some type of cosplay convention. She wore a black, Gothic-style dress with white frills and lace. Her long silver hair that reached down to her waist had skull patterns near the ends of it. From her general appearance, he could gauge that she was a couple of years younger than him. Once she got a couple of footsteps in front, the young girl made an opening remark to him.
"Hi, there! Is it a nice day today?"
Surprised by her sudden greetings, Sik remained calm and kindly responded to the young girl "Oh, hi. Yes, it is a nice day today."
"That's great to hear! I love it when the weather is nice like this. It's perfect for going on a walk or having a picnic" The young girl said while swirling around in excitement like a ballerina. It seemed that the young girl got excited easily over the smallest of things.
"I'm sorry, but do I know you?" Sik asked out of curiosity. He felt that he might have encountered the young girl before but couldn't remember where.
The girl stopped her spinning and looked at Sik with a worried expression "No, I am sure we haven't met before. I'm sorry if I'm bothering you right now. I thought I wou…"
Sik quickly interrupted her "No, there is a need to apologize! You aren't bothering me at all. I was just wondering if we had". He laughed in order to make sure that he didn't hurt the young girl's feelings. He would not want to give the impression that she was being an annoyance as she probably approached him out of curiosity or general friendliness.
The girl sighs in relief "Thank goodness, I would rather not annoy anyone on such a nice day." She then smiles at Sik "My name is Francesca".
"Nice to meet you, Francesa. My name is Sik".
"Sick?"
"No. Sik. Without the C." Most people get that part of this name wrong, at least Francesca didn't purposely get it wrong. "It's short for Sikander, my parents call me".
"Ohh, you must be Iraqi or Iranian then?"
"Uhm… yeah, my parents are from Iraq." Sik was taken aback by the sudden question. It seemed that a girl around Francesa's age shouldn't really know "How did you get that from my name?".
"Oh, I see. It did seem very out of nowhere when I asked that". Francesa seemed to be quite concerned that she might have come off as quite rude. "Well, did you know that Alexander the Great was also known as Sikandar in Persia? The Persians pronounced it as 'Sikander' or 'Iskander' depending on whom you ask. So, I guessed you must be from Iraq or Iran." Francesca explained with enthusiasm.
Again, Sik was generally shocked by the amount of interest in ancient history Francesca had. While most children might pick up some general information about ancient civilizations or myths at a young age, most probably become bored by the prospect. Such enthusiasm was shared by Sik, who was greatly interested in the history of the old world, especially around his parents' previous home in Iraq.
"Wow, Francesca, I'm really impressed that you know that. Not many people are interested in ancient history like that."
"Oh, really? I find history fascinating, especially the ancient world. There's so much we can learn from the past and it's important to understand our roots. Looking at the past is illuminating in that sense". She responded, her eyes glowing with excitement "I guess kids our age are missing out".
"I completely agree with you. In fact, I'm really interested in ancient history too, particularly the history of Persia and Mestipohian. It's great to meet someone who shares that interest.
"That's amazing, Sik! I'd love to hear more about your knowledge of ancient history. What are some of your favorite historical figures or events?".
After a small amount of time talking in the street, they moved over to the local park and brought some snacks from the local kiosk. They continued talking for some time about the ancient world. From the likes of Cyrus the Great to the life of Zoroaster, both Sik and Francesca discussed their passion for ancient history in great detail. Soon after discussing their favorite historical figures, the topic of mythology became the focus of the conversation. Sik got excited when he started discussing his favorite mythological tale that his parents told him as a child: The Epic of Gilgamesh.
"The Epic of Gilgamesh has always been my favorite tale. As children, I and my brother would always react to the adventures of Gilgamesh and Enkidu." He started chuckling at the memory "I used to imagine myself as Gilgamesh, going on adventures and fighting monsters. And even now, I still find his story inspiring".
"How so?"
"Wel…" Sik thought for a second before answering "I think it's mostly how in the beginning, Gilgamesh was an arrogant, self-centered person that thought he could do whatever he wanted. But, that changes when he meets Enkidu. Their friendship is a beautiful example of how two very different people can come together and help each other become better." He pauses again "And how such a friendship can end so quickly and tragically…" Sik became very quiet and solemn once he spoke those words.
Francesca nodded her head in agreement "I definitely agree with that point, Gilgamesh and Enkidu's friendship is certainly one of the most beautiful relationships ever told. However…" Her tone became a little less casual and more serious "I think the story of Gilgamesh carries with it a more interesting message rather than being about the importance of friendship or how a person can change".
Francesca paused before continuing "I think the core message that the Epic of Gilgamesh tries to tell is humanity's ability to shape its own destiny. Even, in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges and opposition from the gods".
"You are talking about when they faced the Bull of Heaven, right?"
"Precisely. By doing so, they defy the divine order and challenge the authority of the gods. This act of rebellion symbolizes humanity's quest for autonomy and the power to control its own fate. Instead of being at the mercy of the capricious whims of the gods." Her tone sounded even more off than she had been previously as she gazed into the distance. Sik felt weirded out by this, she seemed less like her childish self that he got to know earlier. He didn't have much time to think about this further as Francesca asked him a deep question."
"Hey, Sik. Do you think there is any truth to Gilgamesh's story?".
Sik takes a moment to ponder the question before responding. "I think there can be some truths to myths," he says. "Even though they may not be entirely factual, they often contain important lessons or ideas that can still be relevant today." Sik then chuckles, "I highly doubt that the story of Gilgamesh is literally true, but it's fun to imagine what it would be like if it were!"
Francesca grins, "I guess we'll never know for sure, but that's the beauty of mythology. It allows us to explore the mysteries of the world and use our imagination to fill in the gaps. But, maybe… There are more truths in Gilgamesh's tale than you give it credit for.".
Francesca then smiled at Sik and jumped off the bench they were sitting on "Well, Sik, I'm afraid I have to leave now. Thank you so much for the interesting conversation."
"Yeah, definitely. It was really nice to meet someone that shares my passion for ancient history. Take care, and hopefully, we'll run into each other again soon."
"Definitely. Bye!" Francesca waves as she cheerfully walks away from the bench.
Sik takes a moment to reflect on his conversation with Francesca. He is grateful for the opportunity to share his thoughts and ideas about his favorite mythological tale, with someone who is equally interested in the subject. It was refreshing to have a conversation with someone who was willing to listen to his interests and share her own, without judgment or negativity.
However, he did find that some parts of the conversation had quite weird undertones to them. Such as her last point about how the freewill and how humanity could reject the rule of the Gods. Truly, how strange… As he got up from the bench and started to walk home, he did not truly comprehend the hidden meaning of certain parts of their conversation until later on.
—-
It took half an hour for Sik to reach his family's apartment, and upon nearing it he started to run as fast as he could. Thick, black smoke was billowing out of the windows and flames were leaping from the roof. Panic and fear coursed through his veins as he tried to push past the gathering crowd of onlookers, desperate to get closer to the building. As he got closer, he could see that the entire apartment block was engulfed in flames. The heat was so intense that it felt like his skin was melting.
Sik could hear the crackling of the fire and the desperate cries of the crowd that formed outside of the building. He scanned the crowd quickly to see if his parents were in the crowd. He knew that both of his parents were taking a day off today, but he didn't know where they could be. He tries to call his mother on his phone, hoping to hear her voice and know she's safe. But to his dismay, there was no answer. He tries calling his father too, but the phone goes straight to voicemail.
His heart sank as he realized that his parents might still be inside the burning building. Panic set in as he thought of his parents as he didn't want to lose them. He already lost his brother, and losing his parents would mean he would be truly alone. Ignoring the chaos around him, Sik tried to run into the building to find his parents, but a bystander stopped him, warning him that it was too dangerous. "You can't go in there!" the man yelled, trying to hold Sik back.
"Let me go! My parents are in there!" Sik cried out, struggling to break free from the bystander's grip.
But the man held firm, refusing to let him pass. "You can't go in there. It's too dangerous. Wait for the firefighters to arrive."
Despite the bystander's attempts to hold him back, Sik's desperation overpowers him and he manages to break free and rush into the building. As Sik rushes into the burning building, the heat and smoke overwhelm him, and he struggles to see through the haze. Sik coughs as he tries to make his way through the smoke-filled corridors as continues to run up toward his apartment. He can feel his skin burning, and his eyes are stinging. He feels himself becoming dizzy as he continues to inhale more smoke.
As Sik ran up the stairs of the burning apartment building, he could feel the heat and smoke intensifying with every step. The flames roared around him, and he could hear the sound of things falling as he ran through the corridor. He shouted out for his parents, but there was no response. When he finally reached his family's apartment, Sik burst through the door of the apartment. He could barely see anything in front of him, but he knew he had to find his parents. Sik looks around the apartment, and his heart sinks as he sees signs of a struggle. Furniture is overturned, and items are scattered on the ground. He called out to them, his voice barely audible over the roar of the flames.
Sik's mind races, thinking of all the possible places his parents could be. He remembers the fire escape on the balcony and decides to check there. As he runs towards the balcony, he sees flames engulfing the windows of neighboring apartments, and the heat is almost unbearable.
Sik reaches the balcony and sees that the fire escape is still intact. He takes a deep breath and climbs onto it, making his way down to the ground. Once he reaches the ground, he sees a group of firefighters working to contain the blaze.
Sik takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. He realizes that panicking won't help him find his parents. He then starts to think of all the possible reasons for their disappearance. Were they kidnapped? Were they trapped in another room in the building? Was the fire a deliberate attempt to cover up the kidnappers' tracks? As his mind starts to race, on how or why any of this was happening to him or his parents.
—-
It had been 4 days since the fire and there hasn't been any sign of Sik's parents. As the days passed, Sik's panic turned into despair. He was hardly eating or sleeping, the only thing on his mind was finding his parents. Despite the best efforts of the police department, there had been no sign of Sik's parents. Despite their efforts, they had come up empty-handed. They had followed every lead, interviewed all witnesses, and even used sniffer dogs to try and track down the missing couple, but to no avail.
Since the apartment was rendered inhabitable by the fire, he and Daoud were staying in the above apartment of Georiou's pizzeria that was on the same street as his family's Deli. Both Mr. and Mrs. Georiou were family friends, they were happy for them to stay as long as needed to get themselves back on their feet. Dauoud had been a struggling actor who had been staying in the family's apartment while trying to make it in the acting world. He was also in a relationship with Sik's older brother Mo. When Dauoud returned to the remains of the apartment complex, he found Sik crying and distraught, informing him that his parents had disappeared.
Dauoud did his best to comfort Sik, knowing that he needed someone to lean on during this difficult time. He listened as Sik poured out his heart, sharing his fears and frustrations about the situation. As the days passed without any news of Sik's parents, Dauoud stayed by his side, providing support and encouragement. He did his best to keep Sik's spirits up and help him maintain hope that his parents would be found safe and sound.
Sik sat at the kitchen table, staring blankly at his breakfast. Daoud was trying to engage him in small talk, but Sik wasn't in the mood for it. He couldn't shake off the feeling of despair that had settled on him since the fire and the subsequent disappearance of his parents.
"Hey, Sik, did you hear about that new restaurant that opened up downtown? It's supposed to have amazing burgers," Daoud said, trying to elicit some response from Sik.
Sik shrugged noncommittally. "I don't really care about burgers right now."
"Hey, have you tried this jam? It's amazing," Daoud said, holding out a jar toward Sik.
Sik barely glanced up, "No, not hungry."
Daoud sighed, "Look, I know things are tough right now, but you can't let it consume you. You need to take care of yourself too."
Sik just nodded absentmindedly. He couldn't shake the feeling of helplessness and fear that had been plaguing him since the fire. His parents were still missing, and the police had turned up nothing. Suddenly, he heard something fall from the front door. Sik left the table and went to pick up what he assumed to be today's mail. I wandered to the door, and only found a single note there. Without a second, he picked up the note and read it. Sik's heart raced as he read the note. He couldn't believe it… Why would someone put a ransom note through his door?
"Is everyone all right?". Daoud wandered over behind him.
"It's a note," Sik said, his voice trembling. "It says...it says to go to these coordinates if I want to see my parents again."
Daoud's eyes widened. "What? Let me see that." Sik handed him the note, then watched as Daoud read it carefully. He could see the concern etched on his face.
"I have to go there," Sik declared, "I have to find out what's going on."
"No, we have to go to the police," he said firmly. "They can help us find your parents and catch whoever did this."
Sik shook his head. "The note says not to involve anyone else. If we go to the police, my parents might get hurt."
Daoud took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. He knew that Sik was right. Going to the police might put his parents in danger. "Okay," he said, finally. "We won't go to the police. But I'm going with you."
Sik looked at him gratefully, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "Thank you," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
They called a cab and set off for the address on the note. Daoud tried to keep Sik's spirits up, talking about anything and everything that came to mind. But he could see the fear and worry written all over Sik's face.
As they got closer to the address, Daoud's own anxiety began to rise. What would they find when they got there? Who had taken Sik's parents, and why? And what could they possibly do to help them?
—-
They both found that the address led to an abandoned shop on the Eastern side of Manhattan. After paying for the cab fare, Sik and Daoud approached the abandoned bookshop, cautious of what they might find inside. As they entered, the musty smell of old books filled their nostrils. The shop was dark and quiet, with only a few beams of light peeking through the windows.
They began to search for any signs of the kidnappers or Sik's parents but found nothing. The shelves were empty and the books were scattered on the floor.
As they stepped further inside, they noticed something strange in the center of the room. There was a large circle drawn on the floor, with intricate symbols and runes etched into the surface. It was a summoning circle. The summoning circle in front of them was unlike anything they had ever seen before. It was intricately designed with runes and symbols they couldn't understand, they couldn't figure out the intention of the circle. As he examined the strange circle, he found another note near the circle. Sik picked up the note and started examining the contents.
The handwriting was the same as the previous note. The contents of the note stated that Sik's parents weren't in the building and that if he wanted to see his parents again, he had to participate in something called the 'Holy Grail War'. The mention of the 'Holy Grail' made Sik flinch, but he continued to read the note. The note explained that the Holy Grail war was a contest that was taking place in Snowfield and that he would need to win it to have any chance to see his parents again. The note ends with further instructions on how to utilize the summoning ritual in order to 'become a participant in the Holy Grail war'.
Sik and Daoud stared at the note in disbelief. The mention of a Holy Grail war and a summoning ritual seemed like something out of a fantasy novel. Sik was getting angrier by the minute.
"What is this? Some kind of sick joke? I'm not participating in some crazy war for a chance to see my parents again," he exclaimed, crumpling up the note in frustration. "Inshallah. Why is this madness happening to me?".
Daoud placed a hand on his shoulder, trying to calm him down. "Let's just take a moment to think this through. Maybe there's a logical explanation for all of this."
But Sik was too upset to listen. "Logical explanation? We're standing in the middle of an abandoned bookstore, with a summoning circle and a note about a "Holy Grail war". This is insane!". He took a couple of steps forward. "Magic isn't real! Summoning 'magical beings' doesn't work! All of this is practically nonsense!"
"Sik, I know this is difficult, but maybe we should at least try the summoning ritual. We don't have to participate in any war or anything, but it might give us some answers," Daoud suggested, picking up the golden tablet. "If it doesn't work, then we can return to the police and provide them with this information."
Sik grunts in response "Fine, let's give this nonsense a go so we can leave this place as soon as possible. I don't want to be here any longer than necessary". He examined the instructions once again, it mentioned putting some sort of relic in the center of the circle before beginning. Sik turned to Daoud "Do we have some type of 'relic'? Apparently, it says it is better to put a relic circle."
Daoud suddenly remembered and started to rummage into his jacket pocket "What about this?" He pulled out a small piece of rumble that seemed to be a piece of clay tablet that was attached to a string. "This was a present from Mo got me," he said, his fingers tracing the edges of the tablet. "It was supposed to be the remnants of an ancient tablet that was supposedly used for some type of ancient Mestophian religious rite". He starts to chuckle in reminiscence "Mo said he wanted me to have this as a type of good luck charm, also, to use it as some type of good luck charm." He then smiled at Sik "Maybe, it will give us good luck now since we truly are going to need it".
Sik couldn't help but feel grateful for the presence of his deceased brother, Mo. Even though he was no longer alive, Mo had left behind something that was still helping Sik and his friend, Daoud. With tears in his eyes, Sik whispered, "Thank you, Mo. Thank you for helping us beyond the grave."
Daoud looked at Sik with concern, "Are you okay?"
Sik wiped his tears and smiled weakly, "Yeah, I'm fine. It's just that Mo... always looked out for us, even after he was gone. And now, with this piece of the tablet, he's still helping us. I just wish he was here to see it."
Sik then put the piece of tablet in the center of the circle and started to recite what the note instructed him to say. He started to recite the chant from the note, his voice shaking slightly from nerves. As he continued to chant, he felt a strange energy building up in the room, he didn't understand where this energy was coming from. It felt that his whole entire body was burning up. Daoud looked concerned as he continued to chant but allowed Sik to continue the ritual until competition. Sik took a deep breath and said the last lines of the summoning ritual, focusing his energy on the summoning circle. As he finished the incantation, a gust of wind blew through the room, and the summoning circle glowed with an otherworldly light.
As the light started to rescind, Sik suddenly noticed there was a figure standing in the center of the circle. The light begins to take shape and forms into the figure of a regal-looking man with blonde hair. The man had a white hat perched atop his head, revealing his wild locks of hair. He donned a short blue vest that barely covered his chest, allowing his bare skin to be exposed. His attire was completed with long red pants that were slit open, revealing his muscular thighs and toned legs. He carried a stone tablet in one hand while wielding a sizable golden ax in the other.
"Answer Me" The man declared "Are you the mongrel who summoned your king?"