Chapter 3: Captured Orphen

Its dark, hes all alone, floating.

He couldnt tell if he was standing or floatinghe couldnt feel his body. He seemed to feel something from his fingertips, it was a warm feeling. Then a cold one.

Suddenly his eyes were filled with lighthe couldnt see himself, but he could clearly see a figure in front of him. A thin silk dress swaying in the light, it was a little girl.

She suddenly began to speak.

Are you, Orphen?

He was unable to reply.

SorryI would like to apologize.

Her expression became humble. Seeing this, he became a little less tense.

Im so sorry, I really amits my fault that you were attacked

He didnt understand. Was he attacked? He couldnt remember anythingor there was nothing to remember. His name, he didnt know it either. Or he simply didnt want to remember it.

She didnt have an explanation for this.

You wanted to take Majic back, so the Dragon attacked you

I didnt want him to be taken away. Maybe I was jealous, since he can get others help.

She said those words very clearly, but he wasnt so sure what she meant by them.

But I didnt think the Dragon would make you useless

Dragonthat term left a great impression on him. This feeling, it made him want to run away.

I will make every effort to heal you. Though it may take some time.

While she was speaking, the darkness around him gradually became thin.

Also, dont go against Makudogaru. Dont kill him. He is this villages

And then the darkness disappeared into the light, he could hear no more.

(What happened?)

(Where am I?)

(Who am I?)

(Where is the pain?)

(What part of my body is breathing?)

(Damn it)

He turned his body. It was a simple action. He felt pain from his left shoulder. He was wounded.

(I cant remember anything)

Some things came to mind. A girl appearing in the dark

He was afraid of something, humble eyes

He opened his eyes. It was dark at firstthen the light came. The light seemed to be coming from behind him. He lay there sideways, his body lying face against the wall. Walls were all around him, it appeared he had slept on the floor. He thought he was in some sort of cave. At that time

Youre awake, sorcerer.

That voicesomeone was talking to him. His memory was a little fuzzy, he could vaguely remember the face of which that voice belonged to. The man was known as Makudogaru, he was the leader.

He rolled in the opposite direction.

Something entered his line of sight, it was a pair of shoesthe shoes of Makudogaru. They were a pair of dirty hiking boots, another pair set not far away, they seemed to be his comrades. Further away amidst the dazzling light, he could see iron bars and a staircase.

It was very clear to him that he was locked in an underground cell. The door to the cell was slightly open, standing in front of him was Makudogaru and another. The glanced upwards at him, his clothes were bloodstained and he had an assortment of weapons.

(Can I stand up?)

He asked himself. He should be able to do it, but for some reason he couldnt.

Makudogaru coldly gazed down upon him.

Tell me your name, sorcerer.

He didnt answeror rather he couldnt.

(My first name?)

He remembered somethinghis mind in chaos, it was like a dream

Upon getting no reaction, Makudogaru sighed.

Why do you remain silent?

Of course he wont obediently answer our questions.

The man with the sword said, laughing afterwards.

You know what, Sarua?

The man wearing the military jacket was calledSarua. Orphen remembered this.

This man is from the Tower of Fang. Elite black sorcerers hail from there. Whatever his reasons for coming here, he certainly wont tell us.

Makudogaru laughed.

(The Tower of Fang)

Orphen was familiar with this wordfor he had spent more than half of his life at that place.

Makudogaru continued talking:

Let him suffer a little bit, maybe that will loosen his tongue.

Torture? On a sorcerer? These guys have undergone resistance training.

Sarua shook his head as he spoke. Slowly, Makudogaru became angry.

Do you forget who the boss around here is?

Of course not.

Sarua chuckled.

This is your villagethe heart.

Makudogaru was satisfied hearing this. He nodded, then looked at Orphen.

I will not only ask about your name. What happened to the other villagers? Did you kill them?

(Kill?)

That word was absurd to him. He unconsciously exposed a smile.

But this seemed to anger Makudogaru.

Whats so funny!?

The leader kicked him in the face. Orphen silently glared back at him, his face red from the impact.

Makudogaru saw his silence as obedience, slowly, with a look of satisfaction on his face, he spoke:

My name is Makudogaruyou are currently in the holy great heart, a sacred place. Me and my men are soldiers who serve a powerful Dragon, we will protect it and our homeland with our lives.

He didnt respond. Sarua shrugged his shoulders, Makudogaru continued his speech:

Simply put, you and your apprentice will be executed. I dont know why members of the Tower of Fang have come here, but you wont be leaving this place alive.

(Apprentice?)

He remembered something.

Now get some restwe await your recovery. Then youll regret coming here.

Makudogaru grinned at him, then both him and Sarua left the cell. Ensuring that the door was locked, they walked up the staircase.

Orphen used what magic he had to heal his shoulder wound, afterwards he slept. About an hour after his sleep, he recovered all his memory.

Why do you live in a room like this?

This question made her feel very embarrassedFiena looked out the window, she scowled.

(Right now she isnt a priestess)

Majic came to this conclusion.

She turned. She was wearing ordinary civilian clothes indoors, they were made out of white linen.

I dont generally show myself in front of people.

Show yourself?

Majic asked, a self-deprecating smile ran across Feinas face.

I am just for showI unite the people of the village when important ceremonies are held, thensometimes miracles happen.

Miracleslike healing peoples wounds?

Feina didnt answer. She looked back and forth across the room.

Majic also looked aroundhe noticed he was in the tower at the centre of the village, it was about ten meters off the ground. However, it wasnt very spacious. The room was only a handful of steps across. The room had a desk, a small round table, and a simple bed. Majic was lying on top of it.

Majic was wearing girls pyjamas, he lay motionlessly on the bedunder the pyjamas was bandages. It seemed the wounds he sustained from Makudogaru hadnt healed yet, but he felt no pain. According to Fiena, he was ready to stand up and walk, but he was reluctant.

She was looking for something on the tableshe picked up a kettle and cup, pouring water and putting it to her mouth.

Has the wound stopped hurting?

Huh? YeahI guess so. However, when I move my body I feel a little muscle cramp.

I think thats because the skin hasnt connected right. Im not a doctor, though the magic used was really powerful.

Is that right? My master is also strong with magic

Having said that, he thought of himself as a studenthe didnt know whether to regard this as a disadvantage or an advantage in this situation. Majics body shook a little, but he quickly put that fear behind him.

Uhm, why am I dressed like this?

The girls pyjamas he was wearing were too big for him. Feina moved the cup away from her mouth, a smile appeared across her face.

Because thats all I had, there was no other way for me to take care of you in my house.

Hehehe, I guess so.

Then, Majic quietly whispered to himself.

(Hopefully Ill get to see Master and Cleo againthough I dont know how things will turn out)

Majic thought for a moment, his face turned white.

Anyway, whose clothes are these?

Majic asked a question. The answer was simple for Feina.

Suddenly the door opened. Makudogaru entered with a grim look on his face. He attendant Sarua or his bodyguards werent with him, he was alone. Upon seeing him, Feians body shuddered.

Are you ready, Feina?

Whatdo you mean?

He didnt know when Feinas demeanour changed back to the priestessMajic felt this was her defensive posture.

Makudogaru restlessly lifted his face.

Ive already told you about it......soon it will happen.

I understand.

Feina whispered.

Makudogarus patience was wearing thin, he took a deep breath and said:

You said the same thing yesterday, and the day before that.

I think

Majic couldnt hear her whisper. Though Makudogaru heard it clearlyhe stared intently back at her.

What did you just say?

I saidI

Feina repeated herself softly, but she still couldnt be heard. Majic watched anxiously as her priestess demeanour collapsed.

Makudogaru took a step forward.

Six months ago, when you were lost in the woods, I protected you.

I didnt get lost.

She looked down and took a step backwards. Makudogaru quickly raised an eyebrow.

You didnt get lost? Then what were you doing?

I was looking for something.

Lookingfor what?

Feinas voice was trembling.

Lookingfor you.

Hearing this, Makudogaru exposed a look of surprise.

So you had a guide, didnt you?

Feina didnt answer. Makudogaru took another step forward.

You are indispensable for our plans, it would be impossible without you. We thank you.

He shrugged.

But we need a response, dont we? You have the power, Feina.

The powerthat sort of thing

Feina was hesitant. Makudogaru interrupted her:

Indeed, you have the powerright? Because you can use Dragon magic.

(What?)

This was too much for Majic, he mind suddenly went blank.

Makudogaru continued:

Use your power to find the heart of the forest. Only you can do this, Feina.

I

Feina continued to mumble. Makudogaru violently grabbed her by the chest.

You know better than this. I spared that boy for youthat should be enough.

Makudogaru pointed at Majic. Majic felt scared, he couldnt move his body.

Makudogaru continued talking:

If you want a breath of fresh air, open a windowif you want earth under your feet, you are allowed to walk in the forest for three days! And yet you refuse to help me! Kindness should be repaid with kindness!

Youve said enough.

Majic said, he then took a deep breath, and cried:

No!

He used that as an incantation, and released magic. In an instant, Makudogaru was lifted off the floor and flung across the room. Feina watched in amazement as Makudogaru hit the round table. Majic got up from the bed, his wound was still not fully healed, so he moved slowly.

You bastard sorcerer

Makudogaru uttered. His face grim and tired. Majic generally wasnt used to fighting, but right now he was ready for anything.

Majic!?

Behind him the girl cried. Majic quietly said something:

Sorry, I wont be able to chant incantations fast enough. Short ones will have to do.

Makudogaru smiled, he put something in his left hand.

Ohso you know how to use it?

Yes. My master taught me. And Royal Law prohibits the manufacture and possession of such a thing. Why do you have it?

I

Makudogaru stood up.

If I want something, I get it. Just like how someday Ill accept the goddess greeting.

(Goddess?)

Majic was surprised.

You mean the three goddess of fate that the Kimurakku church worship, right?

In a way, yesbut the goddess give us strength, not ignorance, sorcerer.

Makudogaru gestured towards his pistol.

You and your magic cannot hope to match this power. In the heart of the forest

Uh

Majic groaned. Makudogaru gradually reached for his pistol.

(If this guy really uses his gun)

A cold sweat went down Majics spine.

(Ive got to kill him before he kills me. But)

To Majic the exact thought of killing someone was beyond his imagination. Hes never killed, not even in his dreams. In fact, he never thought it would be necessary.

Makudogaru continued to speak. His eyes burning with fire.

This is a necessary weapon, it protects the village, and moreFeina.

Feina is not your possession.

Majic cried, waving his hand into the air. At the same time, Makudogaru grabbed his pistol faster than expected.

Sword of light

Majic tried to shout, he was stunned. He was unable to release magic.

(It failed!)

Makudogaru pointed the gun directly at his forehead.

(Im going to die!)

Makudogaru didnt fire, he just stood there motionlessly. He wore a cold expression on his face.

You did thisFeina.

I did.

Behind Majic, Feina answered. This angered Makudogaru, he said:

I cant move my armrelease your hold on me.

Ill do it as long as you dont kill magic?

(Is this mental domination?)

Majic looked at her. He remembered what his master Orphen had told him, only white sorcerers could use mental domination. But even so, he didnt hear Feina utter an incantation.

(This isnt human magic.)

Makudogarus arm went down to his sides. He took a deep breath, and put the pistol back in its holster.

Its happening the day after tomorrow, be ready for it.

Upon hearing this, Feina was shocked. Majic didnt know what they were talking about, he remained silent. Makudogaru went to exit the room.

Wait a second

She wanted to stop him. Makudogaru slammed the door shut in her face.

The room fell silent, Majic leaned against the bed. He was exhausted. He looked at Feina and asked:

Whats the plan?

She didnt answer. Majic slowly stood up.

Where are they clothes I came here with?

Do you want to leave the village?

Feinas eyes became restless.

Of course not.

Majic didnt know why he said this, he wanted to be back with his friends.

At least not now. That guy Makudogaru is dangerous, weve got to take action.

Action?

She was puzzled. Majic suddenly went silent, he then said:

Why do you ask? Of course I want to escape from here.

But

Master is probably looking for me as we speak, hes probably worried sick.

That guy

Hes awesome, I bet my master could turn Makudogaru into dog food.

Im sorry, I forgot to mention this.

Huh?

Feina spoke in a low tone:

That man you speak of was caught.

What the hell, ahhhh!

Dont yell, youre giving me a headache.

Orphen muttered. He lay in the dirty dungeon, his head felt like a bunch of bees were buzzing around it. He didnt want to move much, or else the hangover would worsen. The wound on his left shoulder still hadnt healed fully, if he tried moving it too much he might collapse from the pain.

Though the pain would help refresh his memory. Even with the pain he just wanted to forget everything, hoping his mind would drift off and end up somewhere else. Orphen recalled this though.

(What a load of shit.)

Standing in front of his cell were two guards and two others. Majic listened to the girl speaking for a moment, then they left.

At the same time, Orphen wondered if this was a dream. The girl appeared again.

He was apprehended, he also cant move much.

Majic grabbed the iron bars. His apprentice had a couple holes in his shirt, there were traces of blood stains that were obviously cleaned.

Its a miracle that youre alive. You survived an attack by the Deep Dragon.

He wanted to say more, but he could feel Feinas body tremblehe thought it was all an illusion. In this state, there was a chance the illusions could get worse. Majic went on to say:

Im glad that you are alive, but theres something youve got to know

Ah, shut up. Are you here to rescue me or not?

Listen, in about a day something big is going to happen.

Feina tugged at Majics sleeve, he looked backwards, thinking for a moment.

Uhoh, Feinas going to do a little favour for us, but

(This kid, hes so excited in front of that girl.)

Orphen thought.

Im going to have to work on my own. Anyway, how are your injuries?

Ive been better, still suffering from that mental attack. But how are you getting me out of?

Just leave it up to me.

Thats a relief.

The sarcasm was obvious. He then looked closer at the girl.

You are the one called Feina, correct? I have something to ask you.

O-Okay.

The little girl stutteredshe was afraid to look him in the eye, her eyes were pointed downwards.

This underground cell is connected to the tower and the village. Next to the tower is a large building, whats inside it?

Uhm

The girl went silent. Perhaps she was forbidden to speak of itor didnt want to, this was obvious to Orphen.

He decided to ask about something else.

About yesterday. That Dragon appeared in the middle of the villagewhy was that?

W-What do you mean?

She said, still avoiding eye contact. Orphen sighed.

The Deep Dragon is the guardian of the forestits said in legends that it wipes out human villages it comes across in this forest in the blink of an eye, but it didnt attack anyoneAlso, is it really the patron saint of this village?

Its fine if you dont want to answerbut could you at least tell us why we were attacked upon entering this forest.

Its because you are a sorcerer. We were notified by two small people that you would be arriving.

Those darn raccoon dogsthey are always giving me trouble.

For the next while they traded stories about what happened, Majic mentioned Makudogarus pistol and Feinas magic.

Orphen said softly:

Feina?

W-What?

She looked at him. Orphen was brief.

Thanks for the treatment, you saved my life.

That was nothing

You treated master?

Majic asked. Orphen didnt want to hear Feina tell him the entire story, he cut to the chase:

Im not entirely sure, it was likemy spirit has been destroyedshe helped bring my humanity back.

Thats right.

Feina said positively.

Thats some power you wield, tell me more about it.

She didnt answer. Her hands moved to her chest, she glanced over at Majic. It seemed she was accustomed to look to others for support.

I asked a question, dont look at himanswer.

Master, this isnt an interrogation

Majic protested.

Ill answer. IllIll

Her voice was getting smaller and smaller.

You must obviously wield a strong force, what are you afraid of?

Feina didnt answer. It looked like she had become the priestess once again.