Silveroak Forest, east of Rotonda, Havenhelm, 6.30 PM.
"Damnit Elise, stay with me !". A Valkryie screamed as she ripped off her sleeves, bandaging a wounded girl on top of a large stone.
The wounded girl coughed up blood.
"Leave me behind Elena... I don't think I could make it". The wounded girl whimpered weakly.
"Shut up !. You will be fine". The other Valkryie reassured as she finished bandaging her sister with the rags from her torn clothes.
The Valkryie then hoisted up her injured sister and begun walking through the forest trail.
"Come on Elise, we will make it to Gearford". The Valkryie stated as they limped together.
They walked in silence as they head deeper into the forest.
"Lena... you are so stubborn when it came to helping others...". The wounded girl commented.
"Shut up, I'm not hearing this from a rebel who always hung around Flintlockes and loves to blow things up". The other Valkryie retorted.
"What can I say, I am Mr. Heimdall's student. He taught me most of the things I know...". Elise said softly as she held the pendant in her hand.
"Even post mortem he still had the audacity to tell us what to do...". Elena retorted.
"But hey it brings back memory does it ?, how every day we snuck out of the house to meet him and learn more about science...". Elise responded.
Elena nodded, a small smile appeared at the edges of her lips.
_____
Ten years ago, at a workshop down in market district, Rotonda, Havenhelm.
An old man sat in a workshop. He wore a flat cap, shirt, suspenders over his trousers , boots and goggles. His workshop is rather spacious filled with all sort of metallic contraption. Mechanical tools lined up on the wall in front of him in a tidy array. Behind him is a locked iron door that emanated a mysterious aura. As he hammered an iron bar three little Valkryie girls entered his workspace.
"Mr. Heimdall !". The three of them squealed.
"Hello girls, what brings you here today ?. Your parents will be angry if they found out you snuck into my workshop again". The old man responded.
"Look what we made !". One of the Valkryie squealed showing a little mechanical bird.
"Fascinating, did Elise blow anything up again while building this ?". The old man asked.
"No ! I did not blow anything up !". A young Elise replied with a pout.
The old man chuckled.
"Let's see if this thing will fly". The old man spoke as he turn the small mechanical bird on.
The bird begun flapping its wings as it took off. However the bird flight is unstable as its wings, flapped too fast before it short circuited and malfunctioned. The bird blows up scaring the three little Valkryies.
"My goodness, it seems like the wiring of the bird requires more precision and the batteries... is it Lithium Ion ?". The old man asked.
"Y-yes...". Elira stammered.
"Next time, use Runitite for the power source. They are a less volatile mineral and you can charge them by flowing magic into it. With our current technology we could not use Lithium as a battery yet as it is very flammable when exposed to the air". The old man replied patting all three girls in the head.
The girl's lips widened to a smile hearing the advise as they nodded.
"Mr. Heimdall, where do you even get all of this knowledge regarding "science" ?". Elena asked curiously.
"Oh well, that is a secret. I will tell you girls sometime in the future". The old man chuckled.
"Now now, let me show you girls my new invention !". The old man said as he pulled out a covered object.
_____
Present day, Silveroak Forest, east of Rotonda.
"You are always fascinated by Mr. Heimdall's theories. Even when we grew twelve, you are always engrossed in his lectures about science and magic while me and Elira grew more distant and focused more on diplomacy and swordsmanship". Elena told her sister.
"And look where it turned out... you ended up betraying mother and father even though they taught you everything about diplomacy and combat...". Elise whimpered.
"Lena put me down and leave me already... I don't think I can walk any further...". Elise whimpered as her legs gave out.
"How many times to I have to tell you ?, I'm not leaving you behind". Elena said angrily as she gruffly hoisted her up and carried Elise on her back.
"I'll find a place where we can hide and rest just don't give up on me Elise". Elena spoke in a desperate tone.
"I make no promises...". Elise muttered.
Footsteps and armour clanging could be heard from behind them.
"Find them and kill them on sight !". A loud male voice could be heard.
"The guards are here". Elena mumbled in frustration.
Just then Elena saw a fallen Silveroak tree. She ran towards it panting from the exhaustion of carrying her wounded sister.
"Just hang in there Elise". She muttered.
She slumped the injured Elise to the trunk as she drew her sword pointing it at the direction where the voices came from.
"E-Elena just run already...". Elise stammered weakly.
Elena ignored her pleas as she hid behind a tree across Elise. She braced herself to ambush any unsuspecting soldier.
"Sir ! the blood trail ended on this rock". A faint male voice could be heard.
"WELL THEN BLOODY SPREAD OUT AND SEARCH FOR THEM THEY CAN'T TRAVEL THAT FAR WITH THOSE INJURIES !". A rougher male voice boomed through the forest.
The two of them held their breath. The soldiers footsteps grew louder and louder. Elena clenched her sword firmly, her breath shaky from exhaustion. Elise slowly closed her eyes bracing for the worse.
"...."
The footsteps slowly faded into the distance. Elena breathes a sigh of relief. The older valkryie knelt down beside her sister, slumping her hand against her shoulder and lifting her up again.
"Come on Elise...". She said softly.
"I can't take another step...". Elise responded weakly.
Elena realized something is wrong. She pressed her hand against her sister's forehead.
"You're burning up, your wounds... its infected". Elena's face is etched with concern.
"Come on, we will find somewhere to rest first". Elena in one swift motion yanked her up and carried Elise on her back again.
Elise's eyes is heavy from exhaustion and fever. Slowly her vision blurs and darkness filled her vision.
"Elise ?, Elise ?". Elena called her in a panicked tone.
"Elise stay with me !". She said desperately as she spotted an alcove tucked under a cliff.
Elena quickly ran towards it and gently laid the unconscious Elise down.
"Thank god she's still breathing...". Elena muttered under her breath.
"I need to find something to treat her before it got worse... It's too dark to find herbs, I'll have to wait for daylight". Elena thought to herself as she rested beside her sister.
She looked at Elise's vulnerable form one more time before exhaustion overwhelmed her. Elena slept with vigilance, fully aware of her surroundings.
_____
The darkness enveloped Elise's senses. She looked around and found a heavy brass door illuminated in the midst of the swirling darkness. She took a step, and another one, and another one. Slowly but surely she reached the door. Slowly she pushed it open...
Behind it is none other than Heimdall's workshop. Tools are neatly aligned above his workbench. Gears for machineries constantly spun in coordinated unison. The flames of his furnace radiates a brilliant heat, enough to melt even the toughest of metals. Elise slowly stepped in the spacious chamber, a melancholic smile begun to form on her face as the sight filled her with nostalgia of simpler times. She gazed at her reflection, mirrored on the surface of the metallic gleam of the machineries. She is back to her thirteen year old body.
"You looked troubled". A familiar voice called out.
"Mr. Heimdall...". Elise muttered.
"What seems to be the problem Elise ?". The old man asked.
"Mother and father, they don't approve of my mechanical bird... they told me that I should stop wasting my time, making toys...". Elise murmured with a sorrow tone, clenching the small mechanical bird she improved to use Runitite.
The old man looked at his student with an understanding expression.
"Well Elise, sometimes, others don't see what you see. And you had to accept that some people will never agree with you". The old man spoke softly.
"What do you want to do ?". Heimdall asked.
"I want to be an inventor... I want to create new things that no people will ever imagine possible...". The young Elise responded.
"Follow your little heart then young inventor, don't let anyone makes you think otherwise". The old man said with a warm smile, ruffling her hair.
"Do you think I can be just like you ?". Elise asked, her mood lightened.
"Even better, I think you are destined for greatness. One day your little hands will grow to the hands of someone that will build the world". Heimdall spoke clenching one of the little girl's hand.
"Now come, let's test your new improved mechanical bird and see if the flight is stable now !". The old demon said with a smile.
_____
Elise felt something hard is pressing against her body. Her eyes slowly fluttered open, the first thing she saw is the dirt road below her. She gazed up to see the bright sunlight shining through the forest. The metallic hue of Silveroaks surrounded them. Her breathing is labored from pain and exhaustion.
"Elena...". She muttered weakly.
Elena did not respond, her breath is equally labored from carrying Elise's wounded form on her back. But she didn't care, her face is etched with steeled determination to carry her sister to safety.
Elise's vision is a blur, her head is light with dizziness. But amidst her hellish fever she wrapped her arms around her sister.
"Don't say a word about leaving you behind". Elena said sternly.
Elise let out a small smile at her sister's word.
"Stubborn fool...". She mumbled.
The duo kept on travelling through the forest before suddenly, Elena's ears perked up as her senses goes on full alert. She gently laid the injured Elise down against a Silveroak tree before unsheathing her sword. Her black double edged sword, gleamed under the sunlight as she faced the direction of a rustling bush. Her eyes is filled with ferocious determination.
"DIE VALKRYIE SCUMS !". A child with horns, wielding a dagger suddenly jumped out and attempted to stab Elena.
Surprised, Elena with her swordsmanship effortlessly parried the dagger away disarming the child. The child let out a loud battle cry as he lunged at Elena again. Elena shows restraint as she sidestepped and tripped the child causing him to tumble. Elena then pointed her blade at the child.
"KILL ME YOU VALKRYIE SCUM !". The child yelled.
Elena hesitated at the sight.
"He is a Demon, I need to end the evil before me but... he is only a child...". She thought to herself.
"Elena... He is only a child...". Elise said weakly.
A memory then flashed into Elena's mind.
"The Demons are the only human race that rebelled". The Erlkönig's words echoed.
Elena looked at the enraged child. She can see the palpable fear and sadness behind his anger.
"He is just a child... A human just like us Valkryies...". Elena muttered under her breath.
Elena sighed and then she slowly sheathed her sword.
Suddenly from behind the treeline a young hooded man leapt with a short sword in his hand and swung at Elena. With quick reflex she unsheathed her half sheathed sword blocking the swing. It was a close call as his sword nearly hit her neck. The young man and Elena then both took a step back as the child scrambled to hide behind the young man.
"Just what do you think you're trying to do ?". The young man said with silent anger in his voice.
The man has a short navy blue hair, red coloured eyes, lean body build, around one hundred and seventy five centimeters tall. He wore a tattered hood, well kept beige tunic, trousers, partially leather gloves, and tall boots. There is a holster with a sheath for his short sword strapped on his right hip.
"This person is dangerous". Elena's mind raced as she parried more slashes before they both stepped back.
The man then gazed at the family crest on Elena's shoulder.
"So you are a Rundina... I will have to purge your evil here...". He said with a cold and calculated tone.
"Don't you dare call me a Rundina again, I cut my ties with them the moment they tried to murder me and my sister". Elena retorted.
"This woman has good techniques but she seemed to lack experience in real combat...". The man thought to himself.
Elena clenched her sword tighter as they both circled each other. The man leapt and does an overhead slash. Elena parried it with her sword but, during the split second the man used the momentum to land a powerful kick to her ribs. A crack could be heard as Elena's eyes widened from the pain. The man jumped back dodging a desperate swing by her.
The man rushed Elena determined to finish her off. Elena's eyes begun to glow violet. Her sword is surrounded in purple aura as she swung into the air unleashing a crescent slash. The man jumped as the slash travelled through the air, slicing the trees behind the man in half.
"Innate magic... seems like her power is of psionic nature". The man thought to himself.
Elena then closed the distance and crossed sword with the man. Her sword begun digging into the man's short sword, threatening to cleave through it. The young man responded by kicking her abdomen forcing her to stumble back. Elena then slashed the air as a purple crescent formed and headed straight to the man's direction. The man jumped, dodging her attack as it cleaves through the Silveroak trees behind him.
Elena struggled to breathe.
"He broke my ribs...". Elena's mind raced as she clutched the right side of her body.
The man then rushed her again, seeing his chance to end the fight. As they fought, the young child grabbed his dagger and approached the weak and injured Elise.
"THIS IS FOR OUR HOME !". He yelled before he swung his dagger to the injured valkryie.
"ELISE !". Elena shouted as she attempted to rush and protect her sister.
The man however leapt and blocked her from approaching.
Elise closed her eyes, accepting her fate.
...
Elise waited and waited but nothing happened.
"LET ME GO YVONNE !". The child screamed.
Slowly Elise opened her eyes to see a woman with vibrant green hair and emerald eyes. The woman held the child's hand preventing him from plunging the dagger completely. The woman wore a pristine white blouse overlapped with a dark blue vest. An intrinsic golden tribal patterns is woven into the sleeves. She wore a long skirt and simple shoes.
"Darius, stop it, can't you see she is injured ?". The woman scolded the young child.
"And Sin, that's enough". The woman glared at the blue haired man that was clashing with Elena.
The man sheathed his slightly chipped short sword at her command. Elena, clutching the right side of her body still held her sword in one hand. She is clearly still on guard from the event.
"Who are you people ?". She asked while panting heavily.
"I am Yvonne Nightshade, these two are Sin Asteria, and Darius Umbra". The woman introduced themselves.
"We mean no harm, we are just travelling through the forest to head back to our camp". Yvonne said.
"Yvonne, don't trust them. That girl's clothes has the same symbol like the valkryies who burnt my house down !". Darius told her.
Yvonne sighed and hits Darius in the head.
"Stop aggravating them". Yvonne mentioned before gazing at the slumped Elise with concern.
She knelt down beside Elise, placing a hand on her head. She took note of the blood on her clothes.
"Harsh fever... and all of these blood... is she injured ?". Yvonne asked.
"Yes...". Elena spoke with strangled breath.
Elise slowly closed her eyes again as exhaustion from the fever sets in, teetering between the edge of consciousness.
"Her wound is infected, we needed to treat her fast. And you seemed to sustain some serious damage yourself. Come with us, we have medical supplies". Yvonne invited reaching her hand out.
"Why should we ?... your associates could've killed us..." Elena retorted with slight anger while pointing her sword at Sin and Darius.
"I understand your reluctance considering my bodyguard nearly killed you, but I assure you, it was an honest mistake. He mistook you two for tyrants". Yvonne responded reaching out her hand again, inviting her to join them.
Elena reluctantly took her hand. Yvonne gave her a reassuring smile.
"Sin, help me carry her". Yvonne commanded.
The young man then carried the barely conscious Elise in his arm. The last thing Elise saw before everything went black is the man's stern face.
"Can we really trust them ?...". The Valkryie thought to herself as she followed them while clutching her injured body.
Yvonne glanced at her whilst they walk.
"By the way, what is your name ?. You haven't quite introduce yourselves yet". The green haired woman asked.
"E-Elena... the injured person is my younger sister Elise...". Elena stammered.
"Elena and Elise... I know you just said you cut ties with the Rundina family but out of curiosity aren't you two the heiress to the Rundina family ?". Yvonne questioned.
"....". Elena gritted her teeth.
"I see... I won't probe any further". Yvonne responded.
They walked in silence through the forest. Darius occasionally glared at Elena and the barely conscious Elise. Soon they reached a clearing where a huge camp is located. The camp is filled with demons, and other creatures that looked similar to them. The demons in the camp are mostly battered and wounded.
The healthy demons are alarmed at the sight of Elena and Elise and got up with their weapons in hand.
"Yvonne what's the meaning of this ?". A male demon asked holding a halberd.
"I thought you were on our side, why did you bring two Valkryies back to our camp, especially ones with the Rundina family sigil on them !". A female demon shouted.
"Calm down, these two defected from Havenhelm". Yvonne said calmly trying to calm the crowd down.
"LIAR !, THEY ARE HERE TO FINISH US OFF !". A demon with a single horn on their head shouted. The rest of the camp then begun to loudly protest.
Elena's hand went to the hilt of her sword as she feared for the worst.
"Silence". Sin commanded.
All of the demon suddenly stood still and held their breath.
"Trust Lady Yvonne's judgement, if they are untrustworthy she would've ordered me to kill them in the forest". Sin stated.
"BUT SIN TH-".
"They are what ?". Sin glared, cutting the demon off.
"....". Another silence filled the camp's atmosphere.
"Okay Sin that's enough". Yvonne sighed while patting his shoulder.
"These two will be staying with us for a while, they aren't bad people. If they are truly evil, Darius will no longer be with us today". Yvonne declared.
"Why is that Yvonne ?". A demon questioned.
"Because... Darius attacked them first, and this lady here... Elena, she showed restraint and didn't harm him despite seeing he is a demon". Yvonne spoke.
The group of demons gasped and glared at Darius. The young boy just scoffed and turned his back against them.
"DARIUS ! YOU LITTLE WHIPPERSNAPPER ! HOW DARE YOU RUN AWAY FROM THE CAMP AND ASSAULTED THOSE STRANGERS !". An old lady with horns shouted and dragged the young boy by the ears.
"OW OW OW GRANDMA !, THEY ARE THE SAME GROUP THAT DESTROYED OUR HOME !". The boy retorted as the two of them disappeared into the crowd.
"Come Elena we will get you and your sister's injury treated". Yvonne turned to her and smiled warmly.
_____
"I was naive... this city is full of darkness... my family... it's full of darkness...".
The thirteen year old Elise slowly opened her eyes and gazed at the sky. She could see clouds cruising slowly, birds dancing freely, and felt the gentle breeze blowing smoothly against her skin. Slowly she sat and looked around the vibrant grasslands around her. The familiar view of Rotonda's bustling with activity, fills the horizon.
"You seemed to be melancholic today little one, another disagreement with your parents ?". A rough male voice could be heard.
"Yes... they never approved any of my ideas. They always use divinity to design things... it's like they are following a cult...". Elise spoke softly.
"But at least you know how the world works right ?". Heimdall asked..
"Yes, I always follow your scientific methods, I looked at facts and data rather than whispers from their fake beliefs". Elise answered while drawing circles on the grass.
"Hahaha, you need to keep an open mind though young Elise. Not everything in this world is data and logic". The old man said.
"What do you mean ?". The little girl asked.
"Sometimes your emotions speaks louder than logic. Let's take an example with magic, you had read some magic books correct ?". Heimdall spoke.
Elise nodded slowly.
"Do you know how magic works ?". Heimdall questioned the young girl.
"We use mana as fuel to our magic correct ?". Elise responded.
"Incorrect, Mana doesn't exist". Heimdall responded.
"What ? That is unfathomable. How do you explain the fact that we can only cast magic for a limited amount of time ?. We need fuel to cast our magic incantation which is why we all have mana, it is backed up by data and observation !". Elise refuted.
"You are correct, we need fuel to cast magic. But that fuel came from our own physical and spiritual body, Mana doesn't exist. Magic by itself flows around us as a invisible force just like how oxygen is, we just use our energy to convert those magic into various spells". Heimdall spoke.
"I don't believe you !, you told me yourself, we need data to support our claims !". The young valkryie stated with a pout.
"Hahaha, you are a stubborn one". Heimdall said with a small smile as he took off his silver pendant.
The pendant is shaped like a gear cog. The rims of its frame is made out of glistening gold and runitite alloy. In the middle of it is a rotating mechanism similar to that of a clock. It is quite dense but despite its density, it is rather light. Heimdall placed the pendant on Elise's hand.
"Take this pendant Elise, think of it as a token. A token of my promise that I will explain to you about everything, about the secrets of the world and years of my research". Heimdall spoke.
The young valkryie looked at him, wide eyed.
"But why would you give me this ?. I thought this is your most prized posession, t-this doesnt make any sense". Elise stammered.
"Like I said, not everything in this world is data and logic. Like I said this is a token of my promise". Heimdall responded.
"Bu-". Elise was cut off as soldiers begun surrounding them, weapons drawn.
"HEIMDALL ! YOU ARE UNDER ARREST FOR PLOTTING TREASON !". The guard captain yelled.
"LADY ELISE PLEASE STAY AWAY FROM HIM !. HE IS A DANGEROUS MAN". A soldier shouted.
"Mr. Heimdall ? What is the meaning of this ?". Elise asked in confusion as she crept closer to Heimdall.
"I guess my time is up, I knew this day will come eventually". Heimdall spoke as his eyes glowed a pale shade of purple.
Slowly his illusion unravelled, horns begun to appear on his head. It is revealed that he is a demon.
"Mr. Heimdall you are a D-D-Demon ?...". Elise stammered in shock.
A Demon, her mentor was a Demon all along. A creature that everyone considers evil. A being that all of Elise's loved ones told to avoid. A being which she heard stories of. Of how they thrive by killing humans and eats their soul. Of how they brought chaos and discord wherever they go. Creatures that her family fought for centuries to liberate the world from their torment.
"Yes Elise". Heimdall told her calmly.
"ELISE ! STAY AWAY FROM HIM ! THE GUARDS FOUND PLANS FOR A REVOLT IN HIS WORKSHOP !". A familiar voice shouted.
"Elena ?, Mr. Heimdall what is the meaning of this ?". She questioned in a frightened tone.
"ELISE RUN, HEIMDALL PLANS TO DESTROY HAVENHELM ! HE WANTS TO DESTROY US !". Another familiar voice could be heard.
"Why... why did you betray us...". A choked sob escaped from her.
Elise slowly backed away from him. Heimdall approached her, matching her pace.
"Mr. Heimdall ?... tell me this is all a lie...". Elise whimpered.
"No, it is true. I did plan the downfall of this nation". Heimdall spoke with conviction.
Elise tripped from a huge stone. Heimdall extended his arms towards her head.
"ELISE !". Elena and Elira screamed simuntaneously.
Elise closed her eyes bracing for the worst.
.....
But nothing happened.
"GET YOUR HANDS AWAY FROM LADY ELISE !". A soldier screamed.
Shhhk, A noise could be heard.
Elise slowly opened her eyes feeling a gentle rub against her hair. In front of her, Heimdall is stabbed by the surrounding soldiers.
"You will find out the truth Elise, one day you will be the one to build this world". Heimdall said with a gentle smile.
Heimdall didn't dodge or fought back. The spears and swords pierced his hips, shoulders, and arms. He didn't even use his innate illusion magic.
"Remember Elise, never kneel to anyone. Keep innovating, one day you will find out the truth and lead your sisters away from the dark path". Heimdall spoke with a genuine smile as blood slowly dripped from his mouth.
Elise teared up at the sight of her mentor. She unconsciously reached her hand out trying to grab him.
_____
Elise slowly opened her eyes, her vision is blurry as she makes out the outline of a person sitting beside her.
"Elise... you're awake". The figure spoke in a familiar voice.
"Elena ?...". Elise whimpered weakly.
Slowly her vision became more focused and clear. They were inside a tent surrounded by stacks of crate. She slowly stirs and tried to sit up, her fever is still wracking her body.
"Rest, you are still sick". Elena told firmly.
She gazed at Elena who's sitting on top of a makeshift chair created from a tree trunk. She noticed her sister is constantly clutching the right side of her body. Elena's breath is also short and shallow.
"Where are we ?...". Elise questioned with a soft voice.
"We are at a refugee camp, you had been unconscious for two days. You must be famished wait here I'll get you some food". Elena told her.
The older Rundina sister slowly stood up and begun limping.
"Are you okay ? you don't look well...". Elise worriedly asked her sister.
Elena stopped before the entrance of the tent and looked at her worried expression.
"Don't worry about me, I'll be fine". She spoke.
Elena then slowly stepped outside of the tent. Elise lets out a sigh at the sight of her sister trying to toughen up in front of her.
"You are such a stubborn fool...". She muttered to herself.
Elise then grabbed the pendant wrapped around her neck. She examined it with a smile, remembering the fond memories of her past.
"Mr. Heimdall... You were never evil in the first place... you must have a reason...". Elise spoke softly to herself.
A green haired woman opened the infirmary tent and entered. In her hand is a tray of medical tools as well as cloths filled with medical supplies.
"You're awake, how are you feeling ?". The woman asked.
"I had seen better days...". Elise answered.
"Your sister had told me everything, about your trip to Gearford and how you two escaped Rotonda. I'm Yvonne Nightshade, nice to meet you". The woman said as she unwrapped Elise's bandages and begun applying a salve into it.
"I'm Elise... nice to meet you too". Elise returned her greetings.
"Your body is recovering from the infection, and your fever had subsided but, I wouldn't recommend you to travel yet for now at least". Yvonne told the young girl.
"But we can't stay here with you or your people otherwise...".
"Otherwise we will get involved in Havenhelm little manhunt ?, don't worry about it. Everyone in this camp is hunted down by Havenhelm". Yvonne told the young girl.
"You see, all of the refugees here are either demons or other descendant of the Erebus race is currently being hunted down by the entire world". Yvonne spoke as she finished changing Elise's bandage.
"Erebus ?". Elise tilted her head in confusion.
"It's one of the five ancient human race in this world. Bloodmares, Demons, Monohorns, Wraiths and even Tiburians are descendant of the Erebus". Yvonne explained.
"I never heard of them, the only ones I knew were demons...". Elise spoke.
"That is because they are erased from most history books". Yvonne responded.
"Are you perhaps also from one of the Erebus race ?". Elise asked.
"No, I am a Verdant, we are descendants of Witch and Warlocks". Yvonne answered.
Elise's seemed surprised at the mention of her race.
"Why are you helping the demons and Erebus then ?". Elise asked with one eyebrow raised.
"Because they are people just like you and me, the Erebus race and their descendant are just like us, they are humans. But for some reason they got persecuted as evil beings. I wished to change the world so they could live life without fear but I am only a single Verdant, I couldn't fight the world alone. So that's why me and my bodyguard and childhood friend Sin decided to leave our life in the nation of Zadra to assist those who got displaced because of the unwarranted prejudice of the world". Yvonne explained.
"That is a noble goal...". Elise muttered.
"I wouldn't consider it noble, I just want a place where everyone can live in harmony". Yvonne replied to the young girl's comment.
"What about you Elise ?, do you have any dream ?". Yvonne asked.
"Well... my goal originally is to become an engineer. I want to advance human technologies, but right now I must put that dream on hold. I need to discover a secret my mentor had left behind in the city of Gearford...". Elise told the Verdant.
Yvonne placed a hand on her chin, taking in Elise's word.
"Your sister Elena mentioned about an encounter with a primordial who will sacrifice everyone in Rotonda correct ?". Yvonne asked. Elise nodded at her question.
"And they wanted to resurrect the primordial of laughter... Elation. This is not good...". Yvonne said with a worried expression.
"Do you know anything about the primordials ?". Elise questioned.
"Only a little from the whispers of the demons in this camp, apparently according to them Elation is not the primordial of laughter but rather... the god of chaos...". Yvonne answered.
The infirmary tent suddenly flew open. Elena entered with a tray of food.
"I apologize for barging in Ms. Yvonne, but I overheard your conversation about the primordials and Elation. Can you explain more ?". Elena said, intrigued by the topic.
The elder valkryie placed the tray on the small table beside Elise.
"Well like I said I only heard whispers from the demons in this camp, they said that he is the god of chaos and harbinger of destruction. However that is the only thing they knew". Yvonne responded as the starving Elise took a bite of the bread from the tray.
"Maybe we can find out the truth in Gearford. Mr. Heimdall, our mentor was a demon. He might have the true history of the world within his records". Elise spoke.
"I was thinking about the same thing when Elena explained about your destination yesterday". Yvonne responded.
"Elation aside do you know anything else about the primordials ?". Elena asked.
"One of the elder demon in the camp told me that a Primordial is a being born from dark rituals. I believe they had something to do with the ancient forbidden grimoires...". Yvonne stated.
"Forbidden grimoires ?". The sisters asked in unison.
"They are a collection of powerful ancient magic spell books that could shift the balance of the world. However they are lost to history and people only considered them myths". Yvonne explained.
"They are not myths". A gruff voice could be heard from behind the tent's entrance.
A man with white hair, white moustache, red eyes, tattered green tunic, suspenders, trousers, worn down leather gloves and boots entered the tent. The man looked like he is in his fifties.
"I have laid my eyes on one before, my old friend used to keep one. It's for the spell of reincarnation". The man said with a serious tone.
"Spell of reincarnation ?". Elise asked with a curious face.
"Aye, my friend used to be a great scholar before he got slain during the crusade led by Havenhelm. He burned his study down alongside the grimoire to prevent it from falling into the wrong hand". The man said.
"Are you sure it's not just a random book ?". Elena questioned the man's story.
"I am sure, that grimoire has a distinct aura around it. It's as if the books themselves contains the crying souls of millions of people...". The man shivered as cold sweats dripped from his skin.
"I heard you girls are going to Gearford to retrieve research papers and records from Heimdall ?. Take me with you !". The man requested.
Elise and Elena is baffled by the man's request.
"Mr. Heathrow, you are too old and frail to travel". Yvonne protested.
"Nonsense, I appreciate you looking after me Yvonne but I am still only fifty years old". The man spoke.
"Elena and Elise is it ?, you two need a guide to reach Gearford. I Albon Heathrow, former archaeologist of the nation of Aurum will be your guide". The man stated.
Yvonne sighed in annoyance at the old man's recklessness.
"You might be a Bloodmare, a being that could live for thousands of year but, you are old. Think about it and don't be reckless Mr. Heathrow". Yvonne sternly warned the old man.
"I have my own reasons to travel to Gearford Yvonne. I need to make sure my older brother is alright, Gearford was destroyed five years ago. It was the last stronghold of the Erebus race and their descendant before Havenhelm and the world united to lay a siege to it". Heathrow spoke with a concerned tone.
"I remember that incident... it happened after our mentor Heimdall got executed... Havenhelm launched a full scale assault to the city...". Elena said with a sorrowful tone.
Elena's body shuddered as she imagined the state of the city.
"It's all our fault... All because of our family's actions...". Elena thought to herself as she looked at the old man. She gritted her teeth in anger and guilt.
"Mr. Heathrow, you should listen to Yvonne. This journey is not going to be easy, especially with the entirety of Havenhelm hunting us down". Elise chimed in.
"Shut it birdie, I am going either way. I need to at least know the fate of my older brother. Besides, I am in a better shape than the two of you". Heathrow retorted.
"It's not that, we are worried that we might put you in danger... I don't want to create more suffering to any Erebus descendants... our family had done enough already...". Elena responded with a remorseful tone.
"Putting me in more danger ?, listen here young lady I had been hunted down by soldiers everyday ever since the Church Of Hecates took over and Allied themselves with Havenhelm. You can't possibly put me in any more danger than the one I'm already in". Heathrow stubbornly stated.
"This is going nowhere...". Elise muttered in annoyance under her breath.
Yvonne sighed and went to the tent entrance.
"Give me some time... I need to think the best course of action...". Yvonne said in defeat.
The Verdant woman went outside the infirmary tent. Heathrow's expression turned to a wide smile as he got up.
"I'm gonna start packing, you two girls better rest up, we will go once straight haired birdie's ribs recovered enough". Heathrow announced as he left the infirmary tent.
"I don't think we can convince him to stop can we ?... I guess we have a guide now". Elise muttered while facing Elena.
Elena exchanged an annoyed glance at her. She then sighed before hugging her sister.
Elise hitched at first, surprised by the sudden embrace. A soft smile manifested in Elise's face as she returned her embrace.
"I'm glad you made it. I wouldn't know what to do without you Elise. I don't know what to explain to Elira if something were to happen to you". She spoke softly. A hint of smile tugging at her lips.
"It's all thanks to my stubborn sister. I'm just glad we both made it...". Elise responded.
The two of them then slowly separate. Elena grabbed the family crest within her blazer and yanked it off. Elise mirrored her movement. Elise handed the family crest to her sister.
"You know what to do right Lena ?". Elise spoke, her voice is laced with conviction.
Elena nodded.
"We will fix the mess our family brought to this land". Elena responded.
"And we will rebel against them, we will rebel against the tyranny of the primordial". Elise added.
"We are truly reckless, declaring war against the world like this". Elena chuckled.
"We are wanted fugitives, it makes no difference if we go into hiding. At least we will go out with a blistering fireball if we die trying". Elise smirked.
Elena then tossed the family crest to the ground and started to stomp them, crumpling the crest as if it is a piece of paper.
_____
One week had passed as the duo integrated with the camp. They had spoken and befriended the refugees. They even helped them move in order to avoid detection. This nomadic lifestyle is a stark contrast to their life within Rotonda's gilded cage.
Elena panted in exhaustion as she carried a basket full of firewood back to the camp. The older Valkryie struggled with the spartan lifestyle they endured. They had to hunt, scavenge, and craft everything from nature. Being from a family of nobles she is also not used to getting her clothes dirty all the time from physical activities. It doesn't help that her ribs is still partially fractured albeit its healing slowly.
Her clothes is now a more modest leather tunic with a tattered hood, a long trouser, and a belt to carry her sword sheathe around. It's a far cry from her noble attire which is partially ripped in order to bandage Elise during their escape from Rotonda. Despite this however, Elena is still eager to help the refugees around the camp in order to "atone" for her family's wrong doings.
"Oh dear, you seemed rather spent. Are your ribs still not fully healed yet ?. here let me help you". An old female demon refugee offered to help.
"Thank you Ms. Glasgow, but I can do this...". Elena forced a smile while panting from exhaustion.
"Feisty stubborn one aren't ya, still it's nice of you to help us old folks doing these tasks". An older male demon commented.
"It's the least I could do for taking care of me and my sister". Elena responded.
"Ye and yer sister not murking us is a good enough thanks, we didn't expect ye two Valkryie siblings to be kind to us". The male demon commented.
"It's what Buckingham said, we are just glad to find friendly faces. Although our fear took over when Yvonne brought you two to our refugee camp". Ms. Glasgow added.
"It's understandable to retaliate Ms. Glasgow, with how the world and our family treats the Erebus race and its descendants you are justified to lash out at the sight of us with our family crest. You are all just trying to survive". Elena remarked.
"You are quite well mannered for a young lady, I would expect you to retaliate against us for our outcry when Yvonne brought you two into our camp". Ms. Glasgow chuckled.
"Growing up with two sisters, one sly and the other one being rebellious and stubborn forced me to become the mature one". Elena replied with a chuckle, mirroring Ms. Glasgow's.
The trio finally reached the camp's workshop, after a long trip towards the outskirts of the Silveroak Forest. They couldn't use the trees within the forest as Silveroak's have the same property as silver and therefore makes them a very inefficient fuel source for their stoves and furnaces. The workshop is a crude tent made out of boar leather with a metallic chimney sticking out. The tent has a porch where anvils and a sturdy workbench made out of Silveroak stood alongside a cauldron made out of cast iron.
Elena tried to gently lower the basket in her back to the table but, the young Valkryie winced in pain as the sudden shift of weight caused her injuries to flare up in pain. The Valkryie accidentally dropped the bag to the ground.
"Elena ! Yvonne already told you multiple times, stop acting like a hero and rest !". A similar looking Valkryie exclaimed as she came out of the tent.
"It's the least I could do to repay their kindness Elise". Elena responded.
In stark contrast, Elise adapted easily to the nomadic camp as she had spent a lot of time around dwarven workshops back in rotonda and, she had done a lot of physical activities while helping and learning about engineering and metalurgy. She doesn't mind getting dirty when it came to helping around especially, when it came to helping the two craftsman of the camp. They created spears, knives, axes, any tool needed to survive in the wilderness.
Elise mostly kept her outfit from Rotonda except her shirt and vest is now replaced with leather tunic because of its durability, and her blazer is now replaced with a tattered hood. She had fully recovered from her infection and her wounds is slowly becoming a scar.
"You're repaying their kindness by extending your rib injury ?. Please stop being stubborn and just rest !". Elise retorted while grabbing the scattered firewood.
"Hahaha, you two are certainly siblings. You are both equally as stubborn". Ms. Glasgow said as she settled her basked of firewood.
"Ye both are certainly entertaining to watch". Mr. Buckingham chuckled as he placed the two basket of firewood he carried.
"Ms. Glasgow, Mr. Buckingham please, help me convince her to rest !". Elise protested.
"Hahaha, I tried but Elena is just like you. Stubborn and refuses to stop working". Ms. Glasgow responded.
"Ye both birdies are rebels to the core, only difference is one is calm and the other one is short tempered". Mr. Buckingham commented. Amusement is written all over his face.
Elena softly chuckled at her sister's outburst and plea to the others to convince her to rest.
"Don't you dare to just stood there and laugh !, seriously go rest now !". Elise spoke with fiery temper.
"I am fine Elise, you should be worried more about Ms. Glasgow and Mr. Buckingham". Elena responded with a gentle tone.
"They didn't even break a sweat ! while you are here, struggling to lift a basket". Elise exclaimed.
"Hahaha, we Demons do have high physical strength by nature". Ms. Glasgow responded.
"Don't underestimate us ye hoodlums". Mr. Buckingham responded jokingly.
Elise stared at her sister angrily.
"Alright, alright I'll clean myself and rest". Elena said.
"You better be, I better not see you going around carrying heavy objects again". Elise told her sister.
Elise then shuffled closer to her sister and begun to whisper.
"Besides don't forget, Mr. Heathrow said we are sneaking out tomorrow to Gearford. Yvonne won't let us go until you are properly healed. But we need to go there a soon as possible".
"I am not like you Elise, I am not a restless machine who stayed up all night prototyping devices". Elena chuckled much to her sister's chagrin.
Time flew as the dark veil of dusk enveloped the Demon's refugee camp. The sisters sat around the campfire alongside the camp members. Fifty six people including the Valkryie siblings sat and enjoyed their dinner surrounded by chattering and laughters. Despite their meager living condition, they sang songs and danced around the campfire. They knew, morale is the most essential supply in their nomadic lifestyle.
Yvonne sat alone at a tree stump holding a bowl of stew with a flatbread sticking out of the broth. The Verdant and leader of the camp sighed.
"You seemed worried lady Yvonne...". A young male spoke.
"Well, I don't know how long we could keep this nomadic camp up. Eventually Havenhelm soldiers will pin our location down". Yvonne shared.
"Then I will fend them off with my life to buy time for you and the refugee to escape". The young man stated.
"Sin... don't throw your life so easily like that. The only people here that are capable combatants is you, Irvine, Asmodeus, and Mr. Blackpool. And you are the youngest amongst our combatants, you still have a long life. If push comes to shove I will sacrifice myself so you could lead the rest to safety". Yvonne responded.
"I am indebted to you lady Yvonne, I can't allow you to sacrifice anything more". Sin responded with a cold and serious gaze.
"Sin, we need more people to guard the young and elderly. Another person like me will come around eventually. besides...". Yvonne paused as she glanced at the Valkryie sisters enjoying their dinner while talking to the Erebus descendants in the camp.
"I think, it's about time you find your own path". Yvonne told the young man.
"What do you mean lady Yvonne ?...". Sin asked confused.
"You had been following me around ever since you were four years old, I think it's time for you to find your purpose Sin". Yvonne responded.
"My purpose was to always repay you for your kindness... I don't want to do anything else beside that...". Sin told the verdant.
Yvonne looked at the young man and then at the Valkryie again.
"Then I will give you one task where if you succeeded, I will consider you had repaid me". Yvonne spoke.
"Guard those Valkryies for the rest of your life. They will sneak out tomorrow morning". Yvonne pointed at Elena and Elise.
"But lady Yv-". Sin got cut off.
"That's my final order, not only for the upcoming trip with Mr. Heathrow, but for the rest of your lifespan".
"I will consider you had repaid me, this is my last order. You are no longer my bodyguard, dismissed". Yvonne said sternly.
Sin gritted his teeth as Yvonne walked away before resigning to her orders. The young man then throws his sword to the grown in frustration as her figure vanished amongst the crudely built tents
Yvonne slowly walked behind a tent and begun coughing into a cloth. Blood came out from her mouth.
"Seems like it's worsening...". She spoke in a soft tone to herself.
Yvonne peeked from behind the tent. She saw Sin sighs and sat down with the refugees alongside Elise and Elena, listening to the tall tales of Mr. Blackpool about his days in the navy before the great crusades against the Erebus Races. She watched as Elise and Elena had truly assimilated with the camp and they had won the refugees heart as they begun opening up and treat them as one of their own. All except for one...
Darius watched with silent anger as the Valkryie sibling assimilated into the camp. The young demon never forgot the trauma he endured from his hometown.
"They need to pay...". The young child's mind raced with vengeance in mind.
Yvonne saw Darius snuck behind the tents and followed him. She found the child holding a dagger with rage palpable in his face.
"Hello little Darius". Yvonne greeted cheerfully which caused the boy to jump in surprise and desperately tried to hid the dagger.
"Y-Yvonne !". Darius stammered.
Yvonne noticed the metallic glint of the dagger and swiped it from Darius's grasp.
"Darius, how many times do I have to tell you, don't play with sharp objects". Yvonne scolded the boy.
"You will never understand... my home was destroyed by them...". Darius retorted angrily.
Yvonne sighed as she realized the boy is still filled with desire for revenge.
"Darius, attacking them will not accomplish anything". Yvonne gently told the boy.
"It will, I will make mom and dad proud !. I will avenge them and then... and then...". The boy stammered.
Slowly the boy begun to break down in tears. Yvonne inched closer wrapping her arm around the boy.
"Yvonne...". Darius whimpered.
"Darius, trust me. It's not worth it trying to harm them, you don't have to talk or befriend them just let them be. They will change the world, my instincts told me". Yvonne spoke, soothing the young boy.
"B-but mom and dad...". The boy stammered.
"There is no changing the past, hurting Elise and Elena won't bring your parents back". Yvonne told the young boy.
Darius knew what she said is true.
"You are too young for a life of suffering like this Darius... but you still have a family member. Your grandmother is still alive... cherish your moments with her and don't do anything that will break her heart". Yvonne said gently.
The boy silently nodded as he retreated back into his tent.
"That boy seemed to be in a lot of pain". A female voice could be heard from behind Yvonne.
"Elena...". Yvonne said with a gentle smile as she turned around.
"He had been through a lot, his parents died when the crusades happened wiping out his hometown". Yvonne told the Valkryie.
Elena's eyes widened with shock.
"I-I didn't know... I-I'm s-". Elena was cut off.
"Don't apologize, it wasn't your fault. Your family was the one who indoctrinate you to believe Demons are evil and called every race of Erebus descent Demons". Yvonne told the young Valkryie as she picked up the dagger Darius dropped.
"B-bu-". Elena was cut off again.
"You were just another victim of them Elena. Don't blame yourself". A voice spoke in her head.
Elena eyes widened as she recognized the voice.
"W-wha-". Elena was in disbelief as Yvonne looked at her with glowing eyes. Her eyes is a beautiful shade of mint.
"Innate magic...". Elena thought to herself.
"Correct, my innate magic is telepathy". Yvonne told her without speaking a single word.
"B-but why ?... why did you reveal your magic so openly like this ?". Elena questioned.
"Because my telepathy allows me to also read your mind, you and Elise are truly kind and trustworthy". Yvonne communicated through her mind again.
Her eyes then stopped glowing as a gentle smile and closed her eyes.
"Otherwise, I would order Sin to execute you both there and then". Yvonne spoke in a casual tone, sending shivers down Elena's spine.
"You should rest tomorrow, your ribs are not fully healed yet". She spoke softly.
"I planned to, don't worry". Elena said cautiously trying her best not to arouse suspicion.
Yvonne sighed.
"There is no convincing you is there ?, You, Elise, and Sin are one of a kind". Yvonne chuckled.
"Take care, and make sure to come back once you had learnt the truth of the world". Yvonne told the young Valkryie as she walked past her.
Yvonne planted her hand into her shoulder and said.
"I'm counting on you". before walking past her.
Elena watched her walk towards her tent.
"She is scarier than Sin or the Erlkönig...". She noted to herself.
The shared dinner between the refugees had already ended. Elena went towards a crude tent made out of leather and logs. The tent is smaller compared to the rest of the tents within the refugee camp and for a good reason as well. The young Valkryie entered the tent to find her younger triplet already fast asleep.
Elise was sprawling in the makeshift mattress made out of stitched leather and worn down cotton. Her head was dangling over the edge while her legs is splayed upwards as if she was an acrobat. Elise's loud snores could be heard. Elena sighed at the sight of her sister.
"You are tactless you know that". Elena spoke.
Elise slowly stirred, her eyes fluttered open for a brief moment before closing again.
"Let me sleep in peace... My arms is sore from hammering spears and knives...". Elise murmured.
"And you told me to rest and stop working hard". Elena chuckled.
"That's because you are still injured...". Elise responded, shifting in her makeshift mattress.
"You are incorrigible". Elena retorted playfully.
"I don't care...". Elise said before she started to snore again.
"I can't believe I followed you and rebelled against mother and father". Elena giggled as she laid down in her own makeshift mattress.
Elise stirred in her sleep again, continuing her slumber. Elena shook her head and laid down on her makeshift matress.
"Tomorrow is a new dawn, we don't know what Mr. Heimdall had in store for us but we might be able to use it to help the people of Erebus". Elena muttered to herself as her vision darkens.
_____
"Why... why did you betray us...".
"Elise... Elise !".
Elise jolted awake. She was slumped over her study back in Rotonda. Her eyes are dry red. She gazed at her right where she saw a thirteen year old Elena with a somber expression in her face.
"It is time... Mr. Heimdall's execution is today... we are required to be present alongside mother, father and Elira". Elena spoke softly.
Elise nodded her head with sorrow.
"I can't believe he is a Demon...". Elise muttered.
"Neither can us... but we have to move one...". Elena responded.
Elise got up and followed Elena through the building's hall. They are heading towards the courtyard for the execution proceedings.
"Lena... Do you think... Demons can be kind ?...". Elise asked.
"...". Elena did not respond.
"I don't think Mr. Heimdall is really evil... at the very least he cared and trust us deeply...". Elise mumbled.
"Elise... that is wishful thinking... the whole world declares war on the Demons. They are vile creatures that doesn't show mercy... there must be a reason behind it...". Elena replied sternly.
"B-But...".
"There is no buts, if there are kind Demons, they won't be persecuted and purged by all nations in this world". Elena held firm with her belief.
"Elena... if they are really evil... why does Mr. Heimdall taught us to be kind... why does he guide us and shared his knowledges with us... He could've just end us whenever he wants to...". Elise questioned.
Elena's breath hitched. She felt hesitation creeping up into her spine.
"He is manipulating us...". Elena responded with an unsure tone.
"Then why did he gave me this pendant ?...". Elise asked again.
"I don't know, we will find our answer during his execution...". Elena sternly answered.
Elise stared at the ground in silent as they approached the courtyard. The duo exited the building to a full view of the courtyard where citizens are gathered and roared with anger. Heimdall, was a trusted citizen and a well respected scholar within Rotonda and Havenhelm as a whole. To find out he was a vile creature that people considered "evil" was the ultimate betrayal for everyone.
"KILL HIM ALREADY !". A Valkryie citizen shouted.
"YOU HAD BETRAYED US !". A Warlock shouted.
"I CAN'T BELIEVE I TRUSTED YOU !". A Flintlocke worker shouted.
Heimdall, the "evil" perpetrator of the rebellion. A Demon, the being that is renowned to spread calamity and chaos. The mentor to many scholars, engineers, and nobles, is displayed. His form is broken and battered from torture within Rotonda's dungeon.
Flies swarmed him. His wounds from the confrontation with the guards were not treated. His body is battered and bruised from torture. He is in a terrible shape. Despite the state of his body however he is smiling.
Elise sat beside her sisters and parents on top of a platform.
"You are late Elise". Vendela spoke with a displeased expression.
"You are part of the noble family that ruled Havenhelm, how dare you came in late and undisciplined". Caelus scolded.
"Mother, Father, Elise is emotionally devastated. Give her some lenience". Elena responded.
Elira nodded in agreement beside her.
"Mother, Father, Heimdall is Elise's closest mentor. Let her have some respite from her sorrows". Elira requested.
Vendela and Caelus however shot a glare at them.
"Silence, both of you". Caelus demanded while slamming his staff at the platform.
Both Elena and Elira flinched at the sudden gruff command.
"She is indisciplined. We can't allow such behaviour to take root". Vendela added to Caelus's words.
The two sisters then stared at their feet. Elise silently sobbed as she mirrored her sister's action.
"Back to the main issue, Elijah Heimdall. Do you have any last word before your death ?". Vendela asked, her voice boomed through the crowded courtyard silencing the crowds.
Heimdall smiled before he held his head high.
"Vendela... Caelus... the time will come soon for you two to pay. For the heinous atrocities that you two had committed to this land...". Heimdall spoke with a calm voice.
"Nonsense !, Our leaders had brought peace and prosperity to this land and freed us from your kind's oppression !". A Valkryian citizen shouted.
"You are all fools...". Heimdall coughed as he said those words.
Elise then stood up with tear stricken eyes.
"ELISE SIT DOWN NOW !". Caelus commanded but, Elise did not heed his words.
"Mr. Heimdall... why... why did you plot a rebellion... why did you betray us... why did you not tell us you were a demon ?... are we nothing to you ?...". Elise questioned between sobs, seeking for the truth.
"You are a fool Elise. You are nothing but my pawn... A tool to help me create more weapons of mass destruction. You meant nothing to me". The Demon's voice blared through the crowd.
Elise stood in shock by her mentor words. It felt as if a knife is twisted within her heart. Her teacher and compass publicly denounced her without a hitch. The young girl knelt down and broke in tears, clutching the pendant. The citizens erupted in anger.
"HOW DARE YOU USE LADY ELISE LIKE THAT !".
"YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED WITH YOURSELF !".
"BEHEAD HIM NOW !".
Their voice is laced with venom. Caelus stood up and looked down at his youngest daughter.
"Pathetic...". He muttered under his breath as he walked forward.
"BRING HIM TO THE GUILLOTINE !". Caelus commanded.
The guards nodded and shoved the battered Demon to the execution platform. They placed his head under a massive guillotine.
"Elijah Heimdall, you are hereby sentenced to death for planning a rebellion, and for your evil heritage !. Let this be an example to all Demons in the world, this is the fate that awaits such evil creatures !". Caelus spoke. The crowds roared in approval as he made the gesture to drop the guillotine.
Heimdall looked at the Rundina siblings once more. Elise looked at her former mentor again with steeled resolve, determined to see justice brought upon this evil creature. However what she saw caused her to gasp. a soft smile appeared in Heimdall's face accompanied by tears. His face is not that of rebellion, it's one of acceptance for his fate.
"Thump". The sound of the guillotine being dropped echoed through the courtyard.
The last thing Heimdall saw before his vision turned dark is his protegee reaching her hands out unconsciously towards him from a distance. His head rolled across the execution platform. The crowd erupted into loud cheers for evil had been vanquished that day.
_____
Refugee Camp, Present day, Silveroak Forest, Havenhelm.
"Elise wake up". A soft voice could be heard.
Elise's eyes slowly fluttered open to see a familiar feminine figure above her.
"Lena...". She murmured softly as she stretched.
"It's time, Yvonne gave us permission". Elena told her younger sister.
"Huh ?, really ?". Elise seemed stunned by her word.
"I thought she said you are not allowed to leave until your ribs is fully healed".
"I had an encounter with her last night". Elena shuddered slightly as she told her sister.
"And, she said to come back safely".
Elise tilted her head slightly in confusion. A rustling noise could be heard outside the tent.
"Are you birdies ready yet ?, we need to go before Yvonne woke up and stops us". A white haired male said as he entered the tent. His voice is barely a whisper.
"Mr. Heathrow, about that...". Elena spoke.
"Lady Yvonne already know about everything, which is why I'm coming". Another male said as he entered the tent,
"Sin ?". Heathrow and Elise said in unison.
"I will be assigned as your bodyguards... Lady Yvonne told me to...". He told them in a disgruntled voice.
"Huh, the brutally loyal Sin who is always by Yvonne's side is tasked to escort us. This is unusual". Mr. Heathrow remarked.
"Yvonne already told me last night, he will come". Elena told them as she grabbed a rugged backpack.
"Come on Elise, we are going now". Elena said to her little sister, reaching her hand out.
"I am already packed, let's go before we woke up the whole camp". Elise responded, grasping the other Valkryie's hand with her own backpack in her other hand.
The quarter walked out of the camp. The quiet darkness of dawn still envelopes the land. The camp inhabitants are still fast asleep. They stepped into the forest trail with determined looks. Elise stopped in her tracks and turned around to look at the camp one last time.
"Mr. Heimdall... I now knew why you said those mean things back then... thank you for protecting me...". Elise spoke to herself while clutching the pendant.
"Goggled birdie, let's go". Mr. Heathrow shouted from the distance.
Elise turned around and caught up to the group as they marched to Gearford.
From a cliff in the distance, a hooded figured could be seen sitting on a rock. The figure took a swig at her gourd, chugging the content as he or she watched the small party ventured through Silveroak Forest.
"Hmmm... so that's them... I guess our paths will cross soon". The figure said in a gruff voice.
The figure slowly stood up and grabbed a large battle axe nestled on the ground beside he or she.
"Marauder old friend, our destiny and future is marching in front of us...". The figure spoke in a slurred voice.
"Let's greet our new friends shall we ?". The figure said as he or she begun trailing behind the group. A pair of large horns is visible, piercing through his or her hood.
The figure slumped the large battle axe against her shoulder with one hand while chugging more liquid from his or her other hand.