Ten o'clock is curfew at New Haven, A high class city in
ENIX protected by the finest Guardians, The Alchemy could provide. Their jobs
are to keep the residents inside the thick marble walls and iron gates, follow
the king's orders, protect the law and order, keep all threats out, and capture
or destroy anything that caused a threat to them, but that never stopped me.
Every night after roll call, I hop out of bed quietly, get dressed in a black
hoodie and matching leggings, grab my gear, and sneak out of the old orphanage
home. I tip toe through the gardens being on high alert that I don't draw
attention to myself. I made my way to a medium sized hole in the marble wall,
it was a secret kept from the last time we had a major attack on New Haven
which caused a gaping hole in the south part of the wall that I kept perfectly
hidden.
War had risen from when the Dark Goddesses led by their
frightful commander Lilith took over, it's been years since, and to be honest I
don't remember the time before when they weren't here, I just remember the
stories of peace that once was. That's of course before the Dark Goddesses took
over. There was Persephone, Medusa, Hecate, Nyx, Kali Ma, and The Morrigan each
ruling over a different part of ENIX.
Where peace once used to live is now chaos and darkness.
Some regions managed to hold their ground with magic, weapons, spells, and
prayers but that wasn't the case for majority of the country.
Many had fallen to the corruption of the Dark Goddesses.
Even some mystical creatures took their sides, Medusa convinced The Sirens to
join her Army, now they wait at the edge of riverbanks to lure innocent
passersby to a very unpleasant watery grave. The Morrigan had the Changelings
and werewolves, humans one second ferocious creatures the next. Hecate summoned
snake demons, humanoid lizard men with a bad attitude problem and their pets
the Dire Wolves- six-foot-tall wolves with four-inch razor sharp teeth. Nyx had
blood thirsty creatures of the night, vampires, who prey upon weary travelers.
Kali Ma hypnotized a lava dragon with the help of some extraterrestrial
banshees that came from the deep abyssal void. Persephone had her
Cerberus- the triple headed demon dog that protected her closely as well as her
army of the post-apocalyptic undead. Then there was Lilith, with her twenties
of hundreds of demons that were her children.
They used to not be out as bad but here lately you'll see
a hoard of these terrible creatures getting a little too close to the gates
more often here, but The Guardians usually take care of them. The last attack
created this large hole
I stepped through the wall that was hidden by tall thick
bushes and covered back up the secret exit, spreading back out the branches.
Placing my backpack on my back, I stealthily moved in the darkness as fast as
my legs would carry me making my way to the entrance of the forest and slipping
away into the night, not daring to look back.
Jumping over a few tree stumps and ducking under low
branches I ran, and I ran hard. The path was illuminated by thousands of
fireflies blinking all around me, I slid around a curve in the undergrowth my
all-black sneakers catching my balance in the fallen leaves, I went ahead to
the handmade bridge a halfway mark to my destination.
Taking a step forward towards the edge of land I glanced
down to where it dropped off into the rushing waters below. The bridge that had
separated me from the other side had to be the most rigid thing I have ever
seen, it was already missing a few boards and the ropes were worn down from
years of use, but I had a schedule to keep, and this was the fastest way
across. Gripping the frayed ripped ropes gently, I pushed on slowly, taking
each step with caution. The waters below roared viciously, an unusual high tide
had taken place tonight and it had caused more swaying on the bridge than I was
comfortable with, I pushed on. As soon as I got to the middle, I heard a loud
CRACK in the distance.
Down the river a low hanging tree had snapped in half
from the power of the water hitting up against it and was now being hauled down
to where I stand. My knees buckled and for a split moment I tensed up and froze
in place with disbelief, snapping back to I went to move my right leg when my
foot slipped from up under me causing me to break through a few of the water
rotted pieces of plank that was my only way to the other side. the ropes
twisted and I knew I only have seconds before it couldn't take the pressure
anymore and completely give in. I threw my bag as far across as I could and
pulled myself back up ,the water kept splashing up sharply on me soaking me wet
as I hung on for dear life and tried to make it across the rigidity bridge
nearly making it to the end before the half of the broken tree collided with
the bridge.
Flipping upwards and smashing back down, there went
the rest of the bridge, snapping where the collision had taken place and
destroying what remained of the connection. Both sides of the bridge split and
was now crashing down into the rushing waves under me and taking me along with
it. I clung to the ropes as it fell and managed to just barely extend my right
arm to contact the other side ground where my backpack was. With all my might I
pulled myself up over the riverbed, belly crawling until I knew for certain I
was in safety before rolling over in complete wipeout. That exhale I let out
was definitely earned.
" Ahhhhh!! What the actual FUUUCK!?!" I yelled
sitting up now and gasping for air.
How unlucky do you have to be for something like THAT to
happen to you! Goodness, I took a moment the thank the Gods for my safety
before returning to reality. How am I supposed to get home now? I thought.
"Oh well, I guess I can worry about that
later," I huffed, then got up and brushed myself off before putting my bag
back on and continuing on my way. I was completely drenched from the recent
string of unfortunate events that had just unfolded before me. I tried to wring
out my clothes as best as I could, but it was no use. I was soaked, and as the
night went on, it only got colder. So, this was a problem I would have to
address sooner rather than later to avoid making this night even worse. It
wasn't too terribly cold, but there was a strong breeze. The weather tonight
was out of the ordinary, but I quickly pushed that thought aside.
A few miles down the overgrown path, I stumbled upon the
ancient treehouse. Its age was unknown, but it had been here for as long as I
started coming here. I closed my eyes for a moment and took in the sweet aroma
of nearby hyacinths and valley flowers.
I breathed in the scent of the untamed grass and
wildflowers, letting memories wash over me.
"Ahh! Nothing smells better." I exhaled with a
big smile. THIS is what home was supposed to feel like.
As the wind tousled my light blue hair, a chill ran
down my spine, reminding me of the task at hand. Gathering some dry sticks, I
kindled a small fire at base foot of the old tree house. Shedding my outer
layers, I left myself in my black boy shorts and matching sports bra, laying my
damp clothes out to dry on a nearby rock. I sat there for a while, basking in
the warmth and gazing up at the twinkling stars above. Reaching into my trusty
book bag, I retrieved a blunt and a lighter, Thank the stars that they had
survived the chaotic journey unharmed.
Brooke Lester home grows and sells the best quality of
flowers in all ENIX. They were known for their annual festivals and firework
shows, it's also where my plug exports it from.
New Haven doesn't authorize the usage of plants with
hallucinogenic properties, which is why I sneak out each night after count. I love my home, I do, but I just never felt
like I truly belong there. I placed the blunt in my mouth and lit it, taking a
long drag and exhaled. I stared back up at the stars as the smoke danced
upwards. I was brought to New Haven when I was barely a three. I don't remember
my parents; though I think about them from time to time. New Haven became my
home that day forward, Head Lady took me in and was the kindest person I've
come to know. Like a sweet grandmother. I might not be a full-blooded New Haven
resident, but my heart was in it because of her.
New Haven was a super strict city ruled by the church.
Underneath them The Guardians with their wings and blindfolds were like these
godlike soldiers, these super high-ranking soldiers had triple wings and wear
blindfolds over their eyes. They were godlike beautiful and strong. Relying on
hearing and vibrations to hunt down anyone they rule as "un-pure.".
They almost never missed their targets, but somehow, I managed to sneak past
them time after time. The urge to run away was always present, you know? To be
free, to finally be able to live let alone breathe on my own.
I'd think to myself.
"Just go, they won't even know you're gone."
People never really noticed me anyways, and if they did it'd be met with
judgmental stares, like I wasn't ever good enough. I dealt with some serious
bullying, but I always fought back and stayed because of the love Head Lady
showed all of us orphans. Head Lady had raised us from little young kids, she
was always so kind and sweet to us all and if we ever had a problem, she'd help
us figure it out but that never stopped the thoughts. Maybe they'd be better
off without me, you know? Seems like I'm always getting into trouble somehow,
it just finds me, and I want to escape it all.
A sudden crack of a twig overhead caught my attention,
causing my ear to twitch. Swiftly, I rose to my feet and scanned the trees for
any signs of movement. Could it just be the treehouse settling in the wind? I
approached the ladder leading up to the house, climbing cautiously while
keeping my senses sharp, each board creaking behind my weight.
Reaching the entrance of the house, I silently pulled
myself up and began to explore, I picked up an ancient metal candlestick holder
I had found nearby just in case I needed to swing on someone or something.
After searching for some time, the only other person on that floor was me and
there was no sign of what caused the noise.
The treehouse, with its spiraling staircase and vaulted
ceilings, stood like a masterpiece had once again fallen silent until I heard
soft notes being played. I looked over to the staircase, I heard the melodious
strumming of a guitar, playing the tune of "Hallelujah." Instead of
startling me, the music piqued my curiosity. I continued upward up the
staircase, inching closer to the source of the enchanting melody.
The room was dark upstairs but in the dim moonlight, I
spotted a muscular figure seating with a propped-up boot on the side railing of
the loft playing the guitar with precision. Mesmerized, I approached
cautiously, listening as the figure began to sing. His voice was ethereal,
drawing me in until I found myself singing along.
With the final note, he turned slowly towards me,
revealing hazel eyes under short black and blonde dreads that fell perfectly
around his face. His milk chocolate skin made me melt the way the moon light
hugged his features.
"My, my, I think we have a spy..." he remarked,
smirking slowly showing a fang in his perfect smile. He stepped closer with his
guitar in hand.
He hopped down from the rail, still holding his candy
apple red guitar, and took a step closer to me, his black boots hitting against
the floorboards. I suddenly became aware of my current state of lack of
clothes, and my face flushed red as he approached.
He smirked and asked, "What's your name,
songbird?" With his index finger he brought my chin up to meet his gaze,
he towered over me he was so tall, as I tried desperately to hide my body with
my arms.
I swallowed hard, feeling a mix of nervousness and
excitement. "Um..." I stammered, trying to find my voice.
"Don't go all shy on me now," he said, reaching
down to brush my curly blue hair off my shoulder. His warm hand gently touched
my bare skin. He used his sharp thumb nail to trace along the side of my neck.
I couldn't help but tense up, closing my eyes tightly.
As he pulled his hand away and turned away from me, I
could feel the spell he had cast on me breaking. I shifted nervously and
cleared my throat.
"I'm Melody," I finally managed to say.
He glanced back at me over his shoulder, a smile playing
on his lips.
"Perfect name for a little songbird like you. With
vocals like yours, I wouldn't expect anything less," he remarked, leaning
against the railing where I first saw him.
I relaxed a bit and took a step closer, my curiosity
going wild, wanting to know who this stunning creature was.
"And what about you?" I asked, eager to
find out his name.
He looked at me with a raised brow and serious
expression. "Hm?" He muttered a bit confused.
I repeated my question, "And your name?"
He rubbed the back of his head. "You can call me
Crow."
I couldn't help but wonder, Crow? What kind of name is
that? It seemed like he could read my thoughts because he nodded and explained.
"I'm a changeling, and I chose the crow as my animal
form. I didn't have a birth name, so I adopted this one from my
transformations."
I blurted out, amazed. "You're a
changeling?!"
He nodded in response then changed the subject. "I
didn't know this spot was already taken before I landed here to
rest."
I quickly clarified. "Oh no, I don't live here. I
just come here at night for a few hours to unwind is all."
He raised an eyebrow and tilted his head slightly, making
me wonder what he was suspicious about.
"Songbird, where exactly are you from?" He
started to question before a sudden gust of wind blew, and I started to shiver.
He noticed and said, "More importantly, where are your clothes? You're
going to get sick dressed like that. Here, take my
jacket."
He nonchalantly removed his black leather jacket,
exposing his bare muscles arms. The loose black shirt he wore underneath flowed
gently around his frame in the wind, the moon beams highlighted every perfectly
crafted muscle on his torso. He was built like a God.
He tossed it over to me with a confident flick of his
wrist. The jacket landed in my arms, I couldn't help but notice its absolute
weight and size of it. feeling almost engulfed by it as I slipped it on. It was a rugged, weathered piece, the deep
black leather worn and aged with stories of its own. The scent of adventure and
mystery clung to it, as if it had traveled through countless realms and seen
extraordinary events. I silently took a deep breath in to capture the scent.
As I fastened the belt of the jacket, I finally took a
moment to truly see Crow. His presence was captivating, his aura shrouded in an
air of enigma. From head to toe, he was geared up head to toe in all black,
each piece carefully chosen to reflect his dark and mysterious persona. His
combat boots, sturdy and well-worn, spoke of countless journeys taken across
treacherous terrains. The straight-legged jet-black jeans hugged his frame,
tailored to perfection, their deep black hue accentuating his powerful stride.
The fabric whispered secrets of forgotten lands and hidden realms.
His t-shirt, a simple yet striking garment, completed the
ensemble. Its jet-black color emphasized the intensity in his gaze, drawing me
in like a moth to a flame. The fabric clung loosely to his sculpted physique,
hinting at the strength and resilience that lay beneath his mysterious
exterior. It was as if the shirt itself was an extension of his persona, a
cloak of shadows that concealed both his past and his future.
In that moment, as I stood there, mesmerized by his
presence, I couldn't help but feel that his wardrobe reflected his very
essence. Dark and mysterious, just like the night sky, Crow was a figure who
walked the line between light and darkness, embodying the enigmatic allure of
the unknown.
Crow flashed a wicked grin, showing off his fangs.
"You look good in my jacket, songbird," his deep voice bellowed over
every inch of my body and that smirk was like pure intoxication. I could stare
at him forever. I blushed like crazy at his words, my face as red hot as fire.
Who was this guy and why was he so relaxed with me?
"The bridge on the way here collapsed and well it's
been kind of a rough start to my night." I laughed nervously.
"I laid my clothes up to dry by the fire…oh shit!
THE FIRE!" I remembered the flame I left unattended; I bolted quickly back
down the staircase to the unmanned fire I had created. The gust of wind made it
spread, and with nothing to help keep it at bay I was a sitting duck as it now
had the power to destroy my hideaway. I tried putting it out. I dug and dumped
dirt on it, but to be honest it wasn't doing much.
The sound of massive wings flapped right above my head,
startling me. Crow, out of nowhere, sprouted wings and with one powerful swing,
he completely extinguished the fire. It was like a scene straight out of an
action movie! I shielded my eyes from the gust of wind to protect again flying
debris.
He landed right in front of me.
"Hey, songbird, you got to be careful. Can't have
anything happening to that beautiful face of yours." He showed me another
delicious grin.
I let out a huge sigh of relief and fell back on the
ground, laughing my heart out. Crow flinched and rushed to me concerned.
"Hey, you alright there?" He asked me.
"Man! What a crazy night it's been! Crow, you're a
true hero. Thanks for helping me out back there!" I sat up.
"If you'd like I can show you how to build a
self-substantial fire." He spoke. I was still in disbelief and couldn't
believe how close we came to disaster.
I nodded not wanting to pass up this opportunity.
Crow patiently showed me how to build a fail-safe fire and returned my now
dried clothes to me. I went back up to the tree house and placed back on my
black Hoodie and leggings. I climbed back down and returned to Crow who was
sitting back the campfire poking at with a stick. I came and sat right beside
him.
As we spent the next few hours together, we really got to
know each other better. Turns out we had a-lot in common, we both listened to
any kind of music with a good beat It turns out, Crow and his kind are often
haunted. Who would do something so heartless?
I couldn't help but feel for him. I mean, he's such a
sweet guy. Who would want to go out of their way to harm people like him? So,
naturally, I asked him who exactly is after them. He said these hunters have
three sets of pure white wings and wear blindfolds. But that sounds like the
Guardians back home in New Haven. But why would they want to hunt them down?
It's a mystery that really got me thinking.
We were standing so close, and with the night getting
colder, his warmth felt amazing. The flickering firelight played across his
face, highlighting his features. I couldn't help but notice a scar that ran
across his cheek, just below his eye. Caught staring, he glanced at me with a
curious sidelong glance.
"Hm?" He turned towards me, his gaze
intensifying.
"You've got the stars in your eyes," he said,
gently placing his hand on my face.
I felt my heart race as he leaned in closer, his breath
mingling with mine. His scent of lavender, spice, sandalwood, and a hint of
smoke enveloped us. It was intoxicating.
"Flickers of gold in your deep blue eyes. I can
almost see shooting stars in them, their memorizing. " He pulled away, as
he did, he looked at me with a mix of curiosity and realization.
"Interesting." he murmured.
Confused, I couldn't help but ask, "What do you
mean?"
His expression turned serious as he replied, "You
are the one we've been searching for. Have you ever heard of the prophecy of
ENIX?"
I shook my head, admitting, "No, all I know is that
the Dark Goddesses descended, and chaos ensued. My town keeps us in the dark,
only the king and his court know the outside world."
Crow frowned slightly, then pulled out a joint from his
T-shirt pocket and lit it, taking a long drag and exhaling, creating a cloud of
smoke.
"I assume you partake?" I grinned big and he
passed it to me, as I inhaled, a strong cough overcame me. It wasn't like any
regular Brook Lester flower. Brook Lester was New Haven's neighboring city that
was home of imagination and annual festivals, so party favors were always
easily found.
Gasping for breath, I managed to ask, "What is
this?"
With a wink and a smirk, Crow replied, "The best
hallucinogenic flower you'll ever smoke." blowing a smoke ring around my
face with his dreamy lips. I felt the air heat up around me again as I
continued to cough. The world around me lit up in pulsing color.
"The prophecy goes like this,
Two souls, bound by celestial light,
Blue and white eyes shining so bright.
Together they'll rise, their courage untold,
One being of silver the other of gold.
Through trials they'll go, darkness they'll defy,
With hearts ablaze, they'll reach the sky.
In unity they'll stand, and with their powers combined,
They vanquish the dark goddess's evil, their victory
defined.
Embrace the journey, for it is their fate,
Of stars and of the moon, heroes so great."
It was like I saw the whole prophecy illustrated right
in-front of me in the smoke from the high I was surfing through.
"Woooow! 🤩 yeah no, that's not me." I
sat back.
"The dark goddesses won't stop until they have you,
songbird. Deny it all you want you are the starry eyed one, the one of stars.
Your powers could help turn ENIX back into what it once was!" His eyes
glowed with excitement.
Each Goddess has taking on and dominated a different
major city. Some towns have survived only through their own defenses. The
witches have their coven's power, New Haven with their guardians and force
field and so on. But to simply believe I, Me, Melody alongside someone of the
moon could take out these celestial beings was cute.
"So, you're saying I, Melody, am who these monstrous
beings are after?!" I was totally NOT expecting this explanation at all.
No way this was true.
"They who are born with the stars in your eyes are
said to hold ancient powers that can counter act these cruses The Undivine has
placed on the people of ENIX. Your voice alone could command armies. The Dark
Goddesses are here to recruit you into their army to do their bedding. They've
set up bases in major cities while their cursed warriors are searching for the
starry eyed one. YOU, Songbird you could restore balance to all of ENIX,
everything can finally go back to normal."
His amber colored eyes sparkled as they stared deeply
into mines with the slightest sign of hope.
chapter one has be restored. chapter 2 is being worked on currently. thank you for your patience! keep checking back for updates!