Hello everyone!

Chapter nine. After so long, sorry about that.

I really just write my chapters in three of four sittings. So if i sat down and really worked at it I could pump out a chapter in 1-2 days. But unfortunately Its UNI Exams time :D So i write when i can, and when I'm not slumped on the floor wallowing in my own misery.

Thanks to all of you who have reviewed. It means a lot to me that you take the time to click on the stars. But thanks even more to those who leave comments either in the reviews or down the bottom of the chapter.

It really does motivate me to write when i hear things like. "Cheers for the read". "What are you going to do with (x character)" and "You suck at writing and you should get tutoring with your English"..... Perhaps not the last one but you get my point.

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Screaming wind slashed past the figure as it soared into the central compound of the demon capital. Red lines seemed to ebb and flow in a trail behind him, and to a casual observer it would have seemed as though they were traces of fire. However when the figure landed they realised it was anything but. Deep gashes and punctures lay riddled across the figure’s body where large quantities of blood poured out into messy puddles on the cobblestone floor.

Several armoured demons emerged into the clearing, shields and spears at the ready in response to the unannounced threat. Though intriguingly, they all bent their knees and bowed low upon recognising the tall jet black figure that stood before them.

“Welcome home, Lord No’med” they chorused reverently, lowering their heads in submission”. One particular demon was too slow however and cried out in fear as No’med’s eyes met his own. To his credit the demon was fast enough to raise its shield into the path of the incoming fist, not that it mattered. No’med smirked in contempt as his clenched hand splintered the bronze layered shield before careening right through the head of the offending demon. Which popped almost comically before its body crumpled in on itself causing those around it to take a step back, gulp and make sure their eyes gave full attention to the ground.

“Weaklings,” was all that was said as resounding footsteps echoed into the distance. The guards waited in silent agony until all they could perceive was the laboured breathing of those who had survived the ordeal before moving quickly to dispose of the corpse. Too used to the casual execution to visually show any outward emotion afterwards. All they could hope for was that they would be promoted before it was their body that was dumped into an incinerator. But even that was near impossible ever since the arrival of the new influx of “monsters” that had taken up residence in their castle.

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The throne room door was opened with trepidation as the large jet black demon walked uncertainly between the hanging drapes and lines of noble demons. The sudden change in personality from aggressive to terrified, did not go unnoticed by the numerous guards situated around the room. “Relax Nom’ed” came a monotonous call, calm but layered with impatience. Despite the passive words the voice seemed to have the opposite effect as the great pillar demon’s hand clenched tightly enough to draw blood, not that anyone would notice as he was already soaked with the disgusting liquid. “There is no reason to hide yourself here”. Came the voice again. Sounding bored yet at the same time there was a veil of annoyance.

“C-certainly milord” Nom’ed stuttered before closing his eyes briefly. Only for them to flash open to surge in blinding gold light. However that wasn’t the only change. A spiked halo now hovered threateningly over his head and his bat-like wings disintegrated into solid light as they folded up on his back neatly.

“You’re back early.” It wasn’t a question, but a fact that demanded explanation, all annoyance had gone from the voice but that only left the despondency as plain as day.

No’med grunted, whether it was a grunt of pain from the numerous wounds that plagued his body or a sign of fear only he would know. “I ran into some trouble,” the great demon started slowly, as if he was choosing each word with a lifetime of thought. “And regrettably my host has become unstable, mending it will take some time and I would rather spend it in my chambers”.

“Trouble?” A new emotion spurred, was it excitement, anger? Whatever it was, the voice now echoed menacingly across the Throne room, holding enough power in the word alone to toss a few of the lesser guards back into the wall. No one moved to help them however as they made their way shakily to their feet to resume their position. Remarkably not a hint of emotion could be seen in any of their faces.

“Nothing I can’t handle,” the pillar replied quickly, his voice more of a plea than an assertion.

“Be sure that it isn’t” Came the settling voice and for the first time that day No’med raised his head slightly to lock eyes with the being in front of him. Whatever it was lay heavily concealed within a veil of pure unadulterated force. Magic so thick that it created a dark shroud around it obscuring all but a pair of leering eyes, shaded in the most beautiful crystal blue that intermittently flashed golden. A sigh of relief came from the pillar demon as he made to stand and leave the chamber. Though as he turned he felt the air temperature plummet, and a small freezing hand clasp lightly over the back of his neck. Moments before a hissing whisper filled with fury echoed into his ear. “For a celestial to be reduced to your state by mere ‘trouble’ would be an insult to your god itself. So listen, whelp. We have no need for those who are, or present themselves as weak. Fix your appearance and if anyone besides myself should catch you utter even so much as a word of pain I’ll make Hell the least of your worries.” The freezing hand left his neck after a small push the made the heavy demon stumble forward. A small snarl escaped his lips, barely heard by even himself before he slunk quickly out of the hall without daring to look back.

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“Don’t touch me!” Came the shriek that made even the neighbours jump in shock, despite them being several hundreds of metres away from the mansion that stood solemnly next to the white Spire of Tesuit. Everyone had seen the men dressed in the robes of a possessed leave minutes earlier and all had heard about the mental blocks that had been placed upon the respected family. It didn’t take a genius to put two and two together and realised that the youngest had just had the lie that was Aare’s existence unravelled from her mind. Those who cared for the family prayed in silence for their swift recovery, those who were unrelated drew symbols on their own doors to ward off the presence of evil and passed along the story as a way to scare unwary families. While those who hated them (and since the mother was a senator there were a lot) settled with laughing from a distance. A blow like this would shred huge amounts of their influence with both the people and the monarchy. It would be an added bonus if they could swoop in at the last moment to pick up some of the leftovers.

Inside the house was the very picture of a nightmare. Furniture had been torn or thrown across the room, in not so rare cases it was both. The delicate furnishings on the wooden rails had been snapped without care or at least cracked. And at the centre of the room was a flailing cyclone of a red headed girl who even now was desperately being held onto by her father. “For fuck sake Shirley, calm down, act your age for the first time in your life! We know this is hard for you to accept but this mindless violence breeds nothing but hate and we don’t need any more of that.”

Shirley’s eyes found her Father’s only to tear herself from his clasp. A wounded look splattered horrifically over her the entire time. “What would you know about me, you never cared if he wasn’t your child, so how am I any different! It’s just one less mouth to feed isn’t it?!”

Anger flashed in Victor’s eyes and he had to visually stop himself from hitting the child. Violence would do nothing but upset her more he told himself, but oh god that didn’t make it any easier. “How dare you,” he said softly instead. “I was busy, so I admit to not spending as much time with the two of you as I should have. However not once have I thought of you as anything else but the best thing that has ever happened to me, until yesterday that was shared between two. So don’t you dare say I am as pathetic and uncaring as to forget about someone who was my child for so many years. Even if only I thought so.” The last part was said to himself, as the girl hadn’t waited for him to finish before fleeing upstairs. Her angry footsteps resounding from above were the only trace of her.

He made to follow her, to make her see sense and hopefully sort this entire mess out. But Celestia came out of apparently nowhere to bar his way. Her arms held out to the side before she stepped forward suddenly to embrace her husband. “Give her time,” was all that was said before Victor embraced her in return, tentatively at first until he pulled her close. Where upon the two found comfort in each other’s arms. It was no secret that Shirley had always wanted a younger sibling, to get one, especially one as polite and talented as Aare would have filled the girl’s heart. To take it away was too cruel, it would have left her empty, either that or shattered the heart entirely.

Upstairs Shirley slammed the door to her room behind her. Watching spitefully as the top corner splintered with the impact. Before flopping down on the bed and shouting a wild assortment of obscenities into her pillow. When half an hour had past or more accurately when her pillow began to taste of salt she stood, swaying on her feet. She hadn’t been in her room since the call to arms and while she had spent the night in the hospital after being knocked unconscious it had thankfully been cut short thanks to the influx of soldiers who had arrived after her. Nothing fatal but broken bones generally caused more of a fuss than being in a slight daze. So rather unceremoniously she had been picked up by her parents and escorted home, where she had re-enacted the fall of Ka’tar on her Mother’s linen and eventually furniture.

As the sweet scent of cooked meet drifted innocently upstairs the Red headed girl finally seemed to pull herself together. Dragging her long sleeved upper garment across her eyes to wipe away the last traces of ruined makeup caked in running lines beneath her eyes. As her eyes cleared she noticed a glimpse of white paper that had been placed delicately within her purse. She blinked, twice. Beautiful writing that could only have been Aare’s sprawled across the paper.

Dear Shirley,

I am so sorry.

What I have done to your family was both cruel and against every teaching you have even given me. Especially after the way you in particular have treated me during my elongated stay. When I originally came to Tesuit I hadn’t planned to stay for more than a week, yet here we are. With me, most of all, still wishing that I could wake up to the sound of you all in the future.

Perhaps now you are glad that I am gone, I understand should that be the case. However I want you to know that even now I consider you as my Sister.

Thank you for everything. Aare

A single hand clenched tightly around the small piece of paper, scrunching it up as the girl whispered slowly to herself. “Me too little brother”.

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The shimmering orange light shining resolutely through the tent fabric eventually pulled me from my dreams. Disturbing ones for the most part so I can’t say I was complaining. I no longer felt the comforting mental barriers that blue put up, Instead the previous night had allowed me to organise my thoughts and collect myself. It had been painful, but after the night of mourning I had promised myself to move on. The past would always stay with me, but I would be damned if I let it control me.

My face was washed with heat and light as I emerged from the tent, courtesy of the spheres of fire hovering at regular intervals around the cave. There was also a pungent smell of smoke, which annoyed me. I had placed the “chimneys” next to each light and they had been working fine when I had fallen asleep. It didn’t take long before I noticed Red, who was swinging his Halberd around in brutal strokes. Fighting some unknown enemy, a barely noticeable blue aura surrounding his head hinted towards the Dreams presence, which was most likely weaving an illusion for the Shedim to fight.

I watched for a minute before beginning to pack up the tent. Being underground I couldn’t accurately guess the time but I wanted to set out sooner rather than later. It didn’t take me long, we hadn’t bothered to water proof it or peg it down since we were in a closed environment so after taking out the supports it just folded down conveniently. I finished by brushing off the remaining traces of dirt before forcing the fabric back into its carrying bag. An act which took me way longer than it should have. “Who makes these things”, I pronounced exasperated.

Glancing towards the exit I noticed Red’s equipment already packed, sitting in tight bundles so I rose to my feet, stretching out the cramped muscles and hearing the pleasent sounds of my unused joints cracking sharply. Surprisingly it was this that alerted Red to me waking and I watched his face spin to meet mine, curiosity and concern plastered like a mask over his face.

“Thank you” I said simply, knowing full well that words wouldn’t convey how I felt. But apparently that was enough as the demon in question just nodded before walking slowly up to me, a smile somehow stretching his beaked face. There was a blue blur and I found my dream denizen once again snuggling into my mind, finding its favourite resting spot near the back.

**Aare, something happened during this morning’s training, don’t even ask how.** was all the demon said as it fell asleep, no doubt exhausted from last night. In response I just looked at Red quizzically.

I was met with a grin as Red held out an open palm which to my surprise suddenly ignited. Spirals of ride arced smoothly through his feathers, never burning but even from the small amount I noticed the air become instantly hotter. The fire was enchanting, burning in the most pure red I have ever seen. Like a deep crimson without any taint. I watched as it danced in his hand whereupon he grasped his halberd which in turn burned brightly in the mystical flame. To say my mouth was gaping in amazement would have been an understatement. Before me was a Shedim demon which had gained a remarkable magical affinity to fire, so much so that it had its own colour. It also intrigued me that Shedims were not supposed to be able to manipulate their mana. In fact, Red may have been the very first of his kind to use magic.

“Red, that’s incredible”. I whispered, watching as Red’s feathers still remained unblemished when the fire snaked over them. “How did you do this?” I knew that magically created fire didn’t actively seek out to burn its creator, but this level of immunity was ridiculous.

“Don’t know.” Came the excited reply. I just shook my head already determined to look into this later, before indicating the entrance.

“You ready?” I said simply.

“I was ready before you woke!” Came a reply so enthusiastic that I broke into a grin.

With a muttered, “course you were.” I spun on my heel, before walking towards the exit with Red in step behind me. Closing my eyes I felt the left over magic from last night giving structure and support to the cave we were currently in. In front of us stood the conjured stone wall which even now my resident mana held together, and even though it looked like a formidable wall a single sweep of my hand collapsed the bonds inside it, causing it to crumble into a layer of dust that scattered freely on the floor. As a side effect the small spheres of fire gave a small pop and extinguished themselves.

As the wall crumbled, light assaulted the cave. Flooding in and blinding us momentarily as our eyes adjusted. Sound filled our ears, mumbled words from the traders camping in the clearing, birds shrieking from the trees and the babbling brook, well, babbling. A sigh of contentment rang from behind me as Red stretched happily. An odd image as his large figure plated in full armour moved like a child let out from confinement. Which in retrospect was exactly what had happened.

I shook the thoughts from my head as the closest group in the clearing noticed our appearance before a single elderly man split from the group and made a beeline for Red. As he came closer I couldn’t help but notice the expensive coat and the monocle over the man’s right eye. After briefly eyeing Red, his gaze fell on mine, “A bit young to be travelling aren’t you boy”. I didn’t miss the note of condescension that the man either failed, or didn’t bother too remove from the sentence. I wasn’t given time to reply as the man once again focussed on Red, or more appropriately the heavy armour and Halberd that Red carried without so much as a wince. “Good morning warrior.” All negative traces in the voice were gone as the man in front of us turned into the image of a perfect gentleman. His smile seemed to shine which disturbed my stomach and he drew himself to his full height. Taller than me yet still failing to reach Red’s chin, or should I say beak?

“My company and I couldn’t help but notice your lack of transport. Perhaps this has caused you difficulty in the past? I at least wouldn’t doubt it with you having to drag,” he quickly nudged his head in my direction, “this boy around.” I had no doubt in my mind that I hated this stuck up noble scum. But I pursed my lips in silent anger trying not to do something I would regret. We had been looking for transport for some time after all. The man continued. “Anyhow, we will be traveling north and you’re welcome to come along.” I saw Red cock his plumed head in a visual replication of my own suspicion. From experience, most people wouldn’t just offer a lift to random strangers. Especially considering when the one asking had a similar latent level of likeableness to a deranged hydra.

“What’s the catch?” I interjected causing the noble to go wide eye with shock that apparently someone as visually worthless as me could interrupt a being as blessed as he.

“Watch your tone boy”. He hissed threateningly. Before turning bright eyed again to look at Red. “However, it will come at a slight price. I’m merely looking for some more protection, the roads are dangerous at this time of year. But for someone as brave and powerful as you who is willing to travel alone with a child this should be no problem. In fact, it should lesson your troubles.”

I almost ripped the poor excuse of a man apart at his tone, I hadn’t been in a good mood to begin with, and his absolute disrespect was pushing the metaphorical line with each damned word. But with a colossal amount of effort I dismissed the red haze that layered my eyes. Only to find Red looking at me for confirmation. In response I just shrugged lazily. Besides the poor company I couldn’t find any other negatives to getting near free transportation to the north. In response Red met the eye of the bespectacled man. “We accept. Leave when?” Reds broken speech didn’t seem to bother the man past a small twitch in his left eye and a hand was quickly outstretched.

“Fantastic.” The man replied enthusiastically. Grabbing Red’s hand and shaking it with reckless abandon. “We leave when that lot,” a small sneer ruined his facial features as he indicated his companions “finish packing. But I am pleased to make your acquaintance. My name is Lord Farrell, but you good warrior may call me Antonius.” A pause, “and your name is?”

“Red.” Simple, to the point.

“What a fine name it is too.” Farrell proclaimed as if it was his choice. “No last name though? Well most demons don’t have one I guess. Regardless I’ll let you introduce yourselves to our, companions.” A dismissive hand gesture was waved towards the rest of Antonius’ group who scowled from where they sat. Obviously the dislike was mutual. “I’ll be in the cart if you need me, I have some paperwork to fill out before we reach the Cobra’s nest.” I raised an eyebrow. I’d heard of the place. A mercenary guild with no allegiance to either the humans or the demons, merely selling itself out to the highest bidder. Frankly if we were going there already there was no reason not to stay awhile, free accommodation and meals along with pay for participating in a few skirmishes seemed perfect. Instantly the upcoming trip began to look more fruitful.

With introductions done Farrell twirled on his foot and made his way to the rather expensive cart which even now was being hitched up to a number of dark brown horses by two overly large men, From this far away it was impossible to be precise but they were easily twice as tall as Red.

I set off first with Red falling into step behind me, soon finding ourselves in front of five people hurriedly packing the last of the nights camping equipment. Though as we came closer the nearest raised her head, blushed briefly –annoying my immensely- but covered herself quickly with a smile. “Sorry about him” She started, indicating the cart where Antonius no doubt sat feeling important. “But I assume you were also recruited”. I nodded in response before she launched into introductions. “Great, well then, we’re travelling together so let’s make this civil, I’m Rina Fae.” I couldn’t help but smile at the friendly greeting which coupled with Rina’s naturally impish build and mischievous face seemed to shower happiness.

“Good to meet you Rina, I’m Aare and this is Red.” Red made a little wave from behind me that completely ruined any intimidation factor he might have previously possessed.

Rina made the same little wave, “hey Red”. Giggled, then turned back to me, “anyway”. She spun, pointing out two of her companions, two children who looked about fifteen, both with feminine faces that screamed delicate. The one trying to stuff a tarp into its carrying case had short brown hair with small freckles littered around the nose. The other who was filling her canteen from the river looked almost identical except from the flowing hair that stretched down to her ankles.

“That’s Alison and Henry Marel,” Obviously my eyebrows raised slightly as Rina burst into another round of giggles before whispering conspiratorially “I know, but the one with the short hair is a boy.”

Her hand swept dramatically over a man stamping out a fire, tousled silver hair framed a rough face which sported several scars. He wasn’t a large man, but his lithe build was one of a warrior. “That poser is Casio Silver, hint, the hair colour is fake. But don’t tell him I told you”. A wink fluttered across her face quickly as Rina moved onto her next victim.

The last person sat slightly apart from the rest of the group, and to sum her up, she was drop dead gorgeous. Wide sparkling blues eyes demanded your attention as messy blond hair traced down the side of her face. High cheek bones made the basis of an oval face highlighting her slightly flushed cheeks. She was slim but not overly so and her body didn’t leave much to the imagination as her breasts threatened to fall out of her tight fitting cloth dress with a side cut that went temptingly from the ground almost to her pelvis. She didn’t look up, but instead made a point out of looking at the ground. Yet they weren’t the eyes of a lofty person dedicated on looking down on those around her, but more of a submissive gaze that didn’t think itself worthy.

A grimace crossed Rina’s face before she continued and for a brief instance sadness flickered across her face before looking towards me. “That’s Felicity Carrow, the personal concubine of Lord Farrell and you probably shouldn’t talk to her. He gets mad at those who try.” I tore my eyes away from the beautiful women before letting them rest on Rina, who true to her fidgety nature appeared to already have forgotten about Felicity, and after fiddling briefly with her cropped brown hair seemed to move on. “Ahhh and the last two are over there hitching up the horses.” I didn’t bother looking. I knew she was talking about the huge men. “They’re Herog and Truog. Basically they are half giants and the guards Antonius originally hired. But don’t let that fool you, they’re really nice!”

“I’m sure they are” I replied smoothly, trying to avoid getting sucked into the vortex of enthusiasm that was Rina. Before glancing at the giant cart that even now was being attached to a seventh horse, it wasn’t just a simple cart either, with wooden walls and a roof it looked more like a house. No expense had been too much apparently as it was adorned with numerous windows and golden plated doors. The red roof looked like a pyramid with a dozen vicious looking stone gargoyles hanging from the edges. Not only that but I saw similar runes cut into each of them, most likely to animate them in the event of an attack. I shook off the awe. “We have a few bags. I’m assuming we can just put them anywhere?”

A laugh was my only reply and for at least a minute Rina tried to get herself under control. Honestly I had never understood the ‘gigglers’, who would laugh at almost anything. The worst part about them was that they would naturally congregate and their favourite places became uninhabitable for other folk. I waited patiently before she replied. “Of course not, that’s for the lord.” She drawled sarcastically. She pointed to the back where a significantly smaller door lay open. “We have the slave quarters. Not much of a slave quarters though. The carpet and beds are still better than most nobles would get in their own homes.”

I saw Red shrug, he’d never been a great admirer of comfort and would probably be just as content sleeping on the ground as in a bed. “More than I expected to be honest. I’ll let you get back to packing then.” I said before Rina realised what she should have been doing and rushed off to finish, leaving me shaking my head. “Come on Red, let’s get comfy.” A grunt of acknowledgement echoed from behind me as the two of us walked through the slightly smaller door at the back of the cart opening up to us a world of bright red tapestries illustrating the history of the ‘marvellous Lord Farrell’. Not that Red and I would ever bother reading it.

The next two hours were spent in near silence as I woke blue and informed him on our situation. He was slightly surprised at first before slipping into forced despondency. He had never cared for humans affairs and he **would be damned** if he started now.

Instead he asked. **How are you feeling** his voice tender and laced with concern.

“Much better,” I replied internally. “I haven’t forgotten and I will never forgot. But I also know that I can’t keep going on about them, last night made me realise that.”

**I understand, but you know I am here for you when you need me. **

“Of course”.

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The first few hours of the trip were uneventful, as it turned out that our travelling companions had stayed awake for most of the night to stand guard and were only allowed to sleep during the traveling itself. Slightly worrying as I thought criminal action would come mainly in the form of highway robbery. Especially as our distance from Tesuit grew and the carts running along the uneven track became further apart.

I watched as each member stumbled into the quarters before tumbling exhaustedly onto their beds and falling asleep. Even Rina only managed to mumble a few words of acknowledgement. What surprised me was that each of the people in the cart were here for a reason, most likely hired to protect the traveling Farrell. But from what I saw, only a few of them looked anything like a warrior. Of course appearances could be deceiving.

I was disturbed from my thoughts by heavy feet slamming into the doorway, rocking the entire cart as huge hands grabbed both sides of the door as the giants hauled themselves through. Soon both stood tall above Red and I. Red had taken the initiative and stepped between me and the walking walls of flesh. Perhaps it was dismissive to refer to them as such, but I had yet to meet them personally and it would be dangerous to think of them as anything else until I discovered they weren’t a threat.

I needn’t have worried. As the one closest to us held up his hands in a peaceful gesture before a great smile cracked open his face. “Whoa, hold up buddy, we mean no harm”. The other was smiling and just nodded at the friendly words.

Red looked back at me questioningly, and at a simple nod from me stepped to the side. An action that was noticed by the two half giants who looked quizzically at me. “Aren’t you adorable, are you a boy or a girl.” The second stuttered. Perhaps a little blunt, but I couldn’t care less about social custom so I just smiled in response.

“A boy, my names Aare.” I didn’t hold out my hand for fear that it would be crushed, so instead I just nodded my head in greeting, making sure not to let the hulking giants out of my peripheral vision. It was too early to turn a blind eye, especially to one who could crush me with a single fist.

They obviously noticed my paranoia and after introducing themselves as Herog and Truog and greeting Red they said as much. “You know little demon, it isn’t fair to judge someone based on their appearances or species. Just because we are larger than you doesn’t mean we are any less of a person”. I blinked before they continued, “In fact, with the new Demon monarch it would be more prudent to judge you. But that wouldn’t be fair, we have only just met you. You wouldn’t say you are like every other demon would you?” The first giant, Herog, held out his hand to shake mine, and I don’t know whether it was because of what he said, or how he said it, but I trusted him, and met his hand halfway. To my surprise he only gripped my lightly, and even though I could feel the obvious strength rippling through it, the pressure was easily restrained. I blinked again, mentally berating myself. Acting like a human and fearing that which was different. Hadn’t Oliver shown me the damage that could cause?

After the hiccup, small chat filled the cabin. We learned that the pair of giants had been picked up in the highlands south of Tesuit, a cold miserable place but known for the enormous creatures that took refuge there. Basically the giants were expensive but they would protect Farrell with their lives. It also intrigued me to learn the ways of giant culture. Due to their stupendous size many found it difficult to create the more intricate sounds in their speech. Larger tongues were just harder to move the way the giants wanted them to. So many species made the mistake of thinking them as unintelligent. Yet after talking to them for an extended period of time I found this to be completely untrue.

However they were the muscle of this trip so most of their intelligence stemmed from the arts of war, and soon all conversation was centred on that. The two giants were apparently adept at the giant double edged war axes that were strapped to their backs. It was also something to be said that they were trained in a more human style of fighting, which involved countering and prolonged combat, something Red had become proficient in during our stay at Tesuit. So each knew exactly what the other was talking about when they launched into long winded explanations on how to best kill this or that. I had always felt that I knew the theory of sword play but they soon lost me when they started describing the feel of each stroke. A feeling which I had never personally encountered. Perhaps I wasn’t passionate enough?

Regardless, all talk stopped when Red said three words loud enough to wake Casio from where he slept two metres away. “Spar with me!” Having spent enough time with the demon of few words the giants smiled at the lack of tact. Red glanced briefly at me for confirmation.

“Don’t look at me, I don’t mind.” I said quickly, to which the demon looked back at his two –hopefully- sparing partners.

A booming laugh came from the two, waking up the remnants of the group who all grumbled something about damn giants before rolling over, covering their ears with pillows and trying to get back to sleep. “Little demon I accept your challenge, but calm your desire to improve until the next camp site, it will keep us awake at least. But for now we must sleep, we may not need much, but some is better than none. See you on the other side.”

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So Red and I sat on the ground, with me trying to teach Red how to channel his mana. Something which I hadn’t thought possible until this morning. It was generally slow work resulting in a restless Red far before any noticeable progress. It wasn’t wasted time though, it was always going to take a while for Red to purify his magical reserves and while I taught him I managed to create seven red mana stones for his use. I felt a quick pang at handing over my mother’s inventions but I forced it down. Refusing to fall victim to last night’s misery.

We were disturbed as the sun reached its peak when food was passed through slits in the wall by the unnamed chefs on the other side. It made me wonder how many people were aboard the cart without my knowledge. There would be cleaners, chefs and drivers just to name a few. The food wasn’t much, just a sliver of dried meat and an unknown soup. Alison and Henry didn’t even bother getting up for it, instead choosing to ignore the meal and hope for a sliver of sleep instead.

I was slightly disappointed. I would have bet Red’s halberd that on the other side of that wall, Farrell was eating like a king. Perhaps he was one I thought. In fact, I knew very little about our egotistical companion who I hadn’t seen a hint of since we boarded. Good riddens though, if I ever saw the young weasel again it would be too soon.

However all thoughts flew away when a good two dozen coconuts rolled though the gaps in the wall. Snarls of disgust erupted around me as my companions turned their noses up at the rolling spheres of deliciousness. I was appalled and said as much. “What the hell have you lot got against coconuts?”

Various replies that ranged from, “not really my thing” to “fucking filth I wouldn’t feed a pig,” were thrown back at me as the crew left the gaps in the wall to try and get a final few hours of rest before the next camp site. Oh well, I couldn’t believe my luck, coconuts were the guilty pleasure of every demon I knew including myself. Except for perhaps one who at this very moment was looking at me with a look of complete bewilderment?

“What’s a coconut?” Red asked hesitantly. A question that I answered by lazily throwing one of the said fruit into his eager hands, before stabbing a mana encased finger through the top to create a drinking hole.

“Drink”. A simple command. My tone didn’t invite any disagreement and soon the red demon was swallowing the liquid with wide eyes that screamed bliss. I followed suit, downing the milk of my own coconut in seconds, savouring each moment as the tropical epitome of milk fell lovingly down my throat, shooting an array of flavours that caressed each and every tastebud I had and hadn’t known I possessed. I remembered Tear often telling all who would listen (when she thought I couldn’t hear), that sex while drinking coconut milk was the best experience anyone or anything could offer. But I disagreed. Anything sex could give would take away from what I was feeling right now. For what could possible or theoretically be better than coconut milk? After draining the remnants I stood still admiring the after taste for several minutes before gathering up the rest of the fruit in my arms. “For later”, I ensured, when Red looked at me with pleading eyes.

“Delicious.”

“I know, damn do I know.”

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Upon arriving for the night the horses where quickly fed and unhitched from the cart. They were never allowed to travel far away thanks to the ropes fastened securely around their necks but at least Farrell saw the need to treat them with a little civility.

Of course Red wanted to fight right away but we were able to pacify him long enough to set up the night watch tarp. Or so it was christened by the giants. So at least if it started raining we could keep dry. Antonius had made it very clear that we were not to spend the night inside the cart so the tarp in my humble opinion was a life saver.

And so, with a cup of warm soup in my hands courtesy of Rina who had taken to mothering her “adorable little demon” I sat with the group watching as Red faced off against the smaller and supposedly less adept Truog.

“Who do you think will win”, came the whisper from my right as Casio sat down beside me. Notably his hands were empty after he had asked for a similar cup of soup.

“Red.” I replied unfalteringly. “However if this was a battle to the death I would be unsure”.

Casio blinked and raised an eyebrow in a particularly annoying manner, “and why is that?”

“Don’t do that”, I said pointedly at his eyebrow before addressing his question. “Because despite being one of the most naturally gifted warriors I have ever met, he has never fought to the death before. I see that as being an obstacle he would need to overcome”.

“Hmmm”. Came the reply before a pause where we allowed Herog to explain the rules of the duel in silence. I didn’t really pay attention, deciding instead to take a sip from the warm cup in my hands.

“Pumpkin,” I said in delight. Closing my eyes briefly to enjoy it, forgetting for however briefly where I was or what I was doing.

“Are you two related?” I glanced over at Casio briefly, before he indicated Red who was all but smelling his weapon in his eagerness.

“Not in blood. Does it look like it?” I said with mock offence.

A chuckle, “no not really. But then where is your family”. The question, although innocent, hung morbidly above us momentarily before I managed to force a smile to my face.

“Back in Tesuit.” I answered somewhat honestly. Casio opened his mouth to no doubt continue his barrage of questions but was instead interrupted by a loud BEGIN, from an enthusiastic Herog as he scrambled back to allow the two fighters to come together.

The normally imposing Red was dwarfed by the hulking Truog who moved deceptively quickly across the sandy floor of the clearing. His axe, terrifyingly huge and probably compensating for something, shot forward with speed that should not belong to a four metre tall humanoid muscle.

I just smiled though, too slow. With precision not seen within the human race, Red delicately flicked the axe –with expert like ease- out of the way. Before swinging the blunt end of his halberd in a blinding overhead arc that scraped past the giants chin as he leant back.

“Wow” came the excited whisper from Casio who was now leaning forward in his chair. “seems as if your grand statements weren’t unfounded.”

Several feints were made by Red as arrays of footwork patterns and subtle movements brought the demon into close range before he ducked quickly beneath a bunt made by the handle of the war axe. No time was spared however as now the demon found himself within the giant’s outstretched guard and a quick upwards stroke cut through Truog’s chest, leaving a thin line that dribbled blood.

Obviously the blow had been held back. But even so, I couldn’t help but be amazed as the skin instantly sealed itself back together and within two seconds there was no trace of the light wound bar the red stain that tinted the edges of the giants torn jacket. This was what I had been aiming for, and something akin to envy wormed its way into my chest at the natural healing abilities of a giant.

Red, momentarily stunned as well was shoved brutally away causing him to fly across the clearing before tumbling to the ground. It was within a heartbeat that Red found his feet again and without pause threw his heavy weapon like a spear.

In a matter of seconds it was over. The giant, taken aback by the insane strength from the young demon was knocked back as he attempted to batter away the halberd. Which was not entirely successful as his right side found itself wide open, exposing a layer of intestine that quickly resealed itself. However the giant could do nothing as the force of nature that was Red rammed into the staggering figure seconds later. Although the giant didn’t fall his balance and form were now utterly broken.

Leading with a brutal punch to the chin, the giant was momentarily stunned as no doubt his vision became a kaleidoscope of different images. Flailing blindly, Truog tried to back off and recover but there was no remnants of the speed and power shown before and Red took advantage of it, quickly crushing the giants attempt at resistance by taking a firm hold onto his opponents war axe and executing a textbook low kick that was coupled with a disturbing crunch from Truog’s left leg.

A yelp resounded through the clearing as Red pulled out a ceremonial knife and brandished it threateningly under the Giants chin. Directly under the fleshly lower jaw, angled to be driven straight upwards into the brain. Though at this stage I was wondering if even that mortal blow would be enough to kill Truog as his leg had already realigned itself by the time Herog called the fight in Red’s favour.

“Well, I think we can end the fight here. The winner seems obvious enough.” In response Red merely nodded in agreement before setting his sights on the towering Herog and once again raising his weapon threateningly. The larger giant laughed however before waving his hand happily while rejecting the demons intentions. “Perhaps later little demon, for now I need to tend to my brothers wounds”.

I felt my eyebrows raise in surprise as the larger of the two giants led the other beneath the tarp before pulling out a needle and thread. As they came closer it didn’t take me long to see the regeneration wasn’t as complete as I had originally thought. Yellow bulbous patches of skin surrounded the wounded areas that were now dark red scars. Perhaps not what I was striving for then?

Before my eyes Herog –without flinching- drove the threaded needle into the infected areas causing sick looking yellow pus to explode out. Herog having done this before easily predicted the path of the yellow ooze and slipped to the side as it passed him by. The yellow pus continued to flow as the bulb around the giants cut deflated. Though after each second the liquid became less yellow, slowly transitioning into a blood red and when the last trace of yellow flew from the wound Herog nimbly covered it with a leather square before sowing it into place.

Catching my eye Herog explained. “The regeneration, while useful, does have its drawbacks”. A deep breath. “Each of our cells will multiply at an increased rate giving us the regeneration, but with no magical assistance a large number of them won’t have the time to copy correctly of completely. Leaving this yellow rubbish. It’s no problem if we quickly remove the incomplete cells but if left to fester there can be serious consequences.” I nodded in understanding, before turning back to Red who was surrounded by the rest of the group who were throwing praise faster that I could drink a coconut.

“That was incredible.”

“Insane! Throwing your weapon like that.”

“The way you moved, even magic would be hard to hit.”

“I’ll have to fight you myself one day.”

Blue, in a moment of excitement leapt from my mind and the blue haze shot across the clearing to join with the shedim, no doubt to add his own few words of encouragement.

I made to walk towards them when I was stopped by a firm hand on my shoulder. “But our regeneration factors aren’t what’s important here.” The Giants fiery eyes met mine as I turned around and before me wasn’t the face of the smiling being that had talked to us on the cart. But the glare of a veteran of war. “He (indicating Red) needs to be careful, he fights too recklessly, like a child trying to humiliate his opponent rather that defeat him. Fighting like this is born from arrogance. I understand that he is strong but he won’t survive for long out here if he doesn’t calm down and understand that there are beings more powerful than him. He may have defeated my younger brother, but Truog is only following me to gain experience. It’s his first time out of his village and I don’t want your friend to become complacent over such a victory.” The hand clenched tighter and I had to stop myself from wincing. “Red is a great guy, but if he keeps rushing into fights to prove himself he will eventually find someone who won’t give him a second chance”.

I sighed before physically removing the giant’s hand. “How old is your brother.”

A quizzical look plastered itself on Herog’s face before he replied. “Seventy four this year”.

“Well Red is twelve.” I said as I turned away from the Giant. Yet still I didn’t miss the look of astonishment on his face. “Also shedims are capable of living for thousands of years, meaning they develop slowly. The only thing that demon is missing is actual experience in real combat, and if arrogance will lead him to fight with confidence and strive to better himself, I see no harm in it.”

“Perhaps it will accelerate his growth, but that is meaningless if he dies.”

“You are right, but in the same way that you are protecting your younger brother, I will not allow anything to happen to Red while he is with me.”

The giant paused momentarily as he seemed to re-evaluate me. “Are you capable of protecting him?”

“I have to be.” I replied enthusiastically when I saw Red glance in my direction. I distorted my face into a grin before walking silently towards the scarlet demon.

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