Tia

Tia navigated through the narrow alleyways of the Old World Network's slums. The rundown buildings loomed above her, casting long shadows that added to the dreary and grim atmosphere. But to Tia, this place was home. She had spent most of her life here, among the piles of trash, graffiti-covered walls, and streets filled with people struggling to survive.

In this world, Tia wasn't alone. Many other kids like her—orphans or the abandoned—also fought to get by. Some of them had become her close friends, sharing food, shelter, and dreams with her. There was Riko, a boy with tangled hair and sharp eyes, always thinking quicker than most. Then there was Mina, a small girl whose bright smile never faded, even in the face of poverty.

Today, Tia felt a bit lighter. Thanks to Oriana's kindness, she had a small sum of money to spend. She stopped by a tiny shop that sold cheap bread and bought a few pieces, thinking of her friends. 

When she reached their usual meeting spot—a collapsed bridge they used for shelter—Riko and Mina were already waiting.

"Look who finally showed up!" Riko called out with his usual sly grin as Tia approached.

"Tia! You took forever!" Mina chimed in, her face lighting up with a wide smile.

Tia gave a faint smile and lifted the bag of bread. "I brought something for you guys."

Riko and Mina's eyes lit up instantly. They quickly gathered around her as she opened the bag and handed out the bread.

"Where'd you get this from, Tia? You steal it again?" Riko asked, already chewing down his piece.

Tia shook her head, exhaustion evident in her expression. "Not this time. A kind woman gave me some money."

Mina looked at her in disbelief. "Really? People around here don't usually do things like that."

"She was different," Tia said, her mind flashing back to her brief encounter with Oriana, Lilianne, and Eun Min Hwa. "They helped me when a man was chasing after me. He almost killed me."

"Who was it?" Riko asked, his sharp eyes narrowing with curiosity. "You gotta be careful, Tia. There are bad people everywhere."

Tia met Riko's gaze before answering. "His name is Modeus. He wanted the artifact I stole from him. I don't know what would've happened if they hadn't been there." 

Riko frowned, his face serious for once. "You've gotta lay low, Tia. Sounds like this guy is trouble."

Mina nibbled on her bread slowly, clearly worried. "You were really lucky, Tia. But Modeus... that name sounds terrifying."

"He is terrifying," Tia admitted quietly. "I never want to run into him again."

Riko, leaning against the crumbling stone wall, gazed at the sky that was beginning to fade into twilight. "You've got to be more careful, Tia. I know we all dream of becoming relic hunters someday, but stealing artifacts from powerful people like Modeus is dangerous."

Mina nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with concern as she looked at Tia. "I want us all to stay together until we're older. We can't risk everything by acting recklessly."

Tia let out a soft sigh. Their dream was to become relic hunters—seekers of ancient artifacts that could bring wealth or immense power. Every kid in the Old World Network dreamed of escaping poverty, and for Tia and her friends, relic hunting was their path to freedom.

"We can do it," Tia said, her voice full of determination. "I'll be more careful. I'll become the best relic hunter, and we'll all make it out of this place."

Riko chuckled lightly, though his tone carried a hint of seriousness. "Tia, you're always dreaming big. But remember, becoming a relic hunter isn't easy. We need training, weapons, and, most of all, connections. Those people up there," he pointed toward the wealthier districts, "they control everything. And us? We're just street kids."

"But that doesn't mean we can't reach it," Tia shot back firmly. "I don't care how hard it is. I've seen what people with nothing can accomplish. If we keep pushing, we can do it."

Mina smiled softly, trying to lighten the mood. "I love how you're always so optimistic, Tia. Maybe that's what's kept us together all this time."

Tia returned the smile, grateful for her friends' support, even when things seemed bleak. "You're right. We'll do this together. I know we can."

Riko gave her a serious look before finally cracking a small smile. "Alright, then. We better start training. If we really want to be relic hunters, we've got to get a lot stronger than we are now. You know, Tia, we can't keep relying on luck."

Tia nodded in agreement. "You're right, Riko. We need to learn more. I've picked up some information about relics and artifact hunting from a few people at the market. Maybe we can start there."

Mina's eyes lit up with excitement. "I can help us find secret routes around here. There are so many places in the Old World Network we haven't explored yet. Who knows, we might stumble upon something valuable."

Riko chuckled. "You always love an adventure, Mina. Alright, we'll start with the routes you find. But remember, we've got to stay sharp. There are people out there who would kill for an artifact."

Tia nodded, her resolve hardening. "I won't give up. Maybe today I was saved by Oriana, but one day, I want to be able to protect myself—and all of you."

Mina gently patted Tia's shoulder. "We can do it, Tia. We've already been through so much together. This is just the beginning."

As the night deepened, the three of them sat under the crumbling bridge, talking about their future. Despite the hardships they faced, their shared dream of becoming relic hunters filled them with hope. They knew the road ahead would be tough, but together, they felt like anything was possible.

With their bellies full and their hearts brimming with determination, Tia gazed up at the starry night sky. Maybe, just maybe, one day she'd be more than just a street kid in this rundown district. Perhaps, she'd discover an artifact that would change her and her friends' lives forever.

***

That morning, the sun's rays filtered through the gaps between the dilapidated buildings of Old World Network's slums. Tia had been awake since dawn, as usual. The constant noise of life in the slums had become her natural alarm. She rose from her makeshift bed—a pile of worn-out cloth—and started her morning routine: washing up at the small stream behind the ruins of a bridge and checking to ensure the precious items she kept under the creaky wooden floorboards were still safe.

Once she felt somewhat presentable, Tia stepped out of her hideout into the narrow alley bustling with people busy with their daily survival. In this place, everyone moved quickly, always searching for a way to get by—whether it was through stealing, selling small goods, or begging. Each person fought hard just to secure their next meal.

But Tia had different hopes for today. She planned to gather more information about relic hunters. It was a big dream, and Tia didn't want to wait any longer. She was determined to begin as soon as possible.

As Tia walked through the small market at the edge of the district, she heard a familiar laugh. It was a voice she had come to recognize from her brief encounter a few days ago. She paused, turning her head toward the sound.

At the end of the street, she spotted Oriana, Eun Min Hwa, and Lilianne walking together. They looked completely different from the people who usually roamed these streets. Their clothes were clean, their appearance tidy, and the way they moved made it clear they came from a much better place than the slums. Oriana waved when she saw Tia.

"Tia!" Oriana called out cheerfully, approaching with a wide smile.

Tia was surprised to see them but couldn't help a small smile from creeping onto her face. "Sister Oriana!" she exclaimed, running toward them.

Oriana chuckled when Tia called her "sister," and when Tia reached her, Oriana crouched down to her level. "It's so good to see you, Tia. How are you?"

Tia beamed. "I'm doing well, Sister Oriana. What brings you all here?"

Eun Min Hwa, standing beside Oriana, answered calmly, "We were taking a walk around Old World Network, and Oriana wanted to stop by and make sure you were alright."

Lilianne added with a gentle smile, "We were also curious how you were doing after everything that happened."

Tia nodded quickly, touched by their concern. "I'm fine! You don't have to worry. I haven't seen Modeus since."

Oriana looked at her with soft, caring eyes. "I'm glad to hear that. But remember, if anything happens again, you can come to us anytime."

Tia nodded, her voice quieter now as she shyly admitted, "You all really feel like sisters to me. I don't have any family, so it means a lot that you came to check on me."

Oriana smiled warmly and gently ruffled Tia's hair. "Well then, from now on, you can think of us as your sisters, okay?"

Tia nodded enthusiastically. "Thank you, Sister Oriana, Sister Min Hwa, Sister Lilianne!"

Lilianne smiled and patted Tia's shoulder. "Have you eaten yet, Tia?"

Tia shook her head. "Not yet... but I was planning to find something later. I've still got some money left from yesterday."

Eun Min Hwa glanced at Oriana and Lilianne with concern. "We should've brought something for Tia."

Oriana nodded. "Tia, how about we treat you to breakfast right now?"

Tia hesitated for a moment, unsure. "But... I don't want to be a bother."

Oriana laughed softly. "You're not a bother at all, Tia. We actually want to spend time with you."

After a brief moment of confusion, Tia finally agreed. They made their way to a small food stall near the market, a popular spot for the people living in the slums. Though the place was simple, the food was hearty and filling.

After placing their orders, they sat at a small table outside the stall, beneath the shade of some old, nearly dead trees.

"So, what have you been up to since the incident, Tia?" Eun Min Hwa asked, taking a bite of rice.

Tia sighed, thinking back to the events of the last few days. "I've been trying to move on from what happened. I know I was wrong to take that artifact, but I didn't have a choice. I just want to be a relic hunter one day."

Oriana listened intently. "A relic hunter, huh? That's a big dream, Tia."

Tia nodded eagerly. "I know, but it's the only way I can see out of here. I want a better life, not just for me, but for my friends too. We all share the same dream."

Lilianne smiled softly, impressed by Tia's determination. "Your dream is noble, Tia. But becoming a relic hunter isn't easy. You'll need training and experience."

Tia's grin widened. "I know. I've already started learning bit by bit. Some people in the market talk about relics and their adventures sometimes."

Oriana gazed at Tia with admiration. "You're really persistent, Tia. We'll support your dream however we can. If you need help, don't hesitate to reach out."

Tia's heart warmed at Oriana's words. "Thank you, Sister Oriana. I don't even know what to say."

"You don't need to say anything," Oriana replied with a smile. "We're family now, right?"

Tia nodded, feeling incredibly lucky to have them in her life.

After finishing their meal, they lingered for a bit longer, sharing stories about their lives. Oriana, Lilianne, and Eun Min Hwa talked a little about their time at Lupusrica Knight Academy, where they trained to become the best in the world of magic and adventure. Tia listened with fascination, imagining herself someday embarking on adventures just like them.

Before they parted ways, Oriana gave Tia her safehouse address once again, making sure Tia knew where to find them if she ever needed help.

"If you ever need anything, Tia, don't hesitate to contact us, okay?" Lilianne said, gently patting her on the shoulder.

"I'll remember, Sister Lilianne. Thank you," Tia replied with a grateful smile.

After Oriana, Lilianne, and Eun Min Hwa left, Tia resumed her usual routine in the slums of Old World Network. Though her spirits had been lifted by their visit, life in the slums remained tough. Later that afternoon, Tia reunited with her friends—a group of kids her age, all of whom dreamed of changing their fates someday.

In a narrow alley that was rarely visited, Tia and her friends sat in a circle, talking about their aspirations. Riko, one of her closest friends, eagerly shared a story he'd overheard from the merchants at the market.

"I heard about a relic hunter who can control mechas in the blink of an eye!" Riko exclaimed, his eyes wide as he added extra flair to his tale.

Tia chuckled. "That sounds a bit far-fetched. No one can be that quick, but still… being a relic hunter sounds amazing. One day, I'll become one too."

Her friends nodded, even though they all knew that dreams like theirs were far out of reach. Living in the slums meant fighting every day just to survive.

As dusk settled in, one by one, her friends began heading home. Tia too prepared to return to her hideout, an abandoned building she often used for shelter. As she walked through the increasingly deserted alleys, a growing sense of unease crawled up her spine. Her footsteps echoed against the cracked walls, but something didn't feel right—like there was someone else behind her. She turned around, seeing nothing but the shadows of the towering, decaying buildings. She quickened her pace, the feeling of anxiety growing stronger.

Suddenly, a rough hand yanked her backward, covering her mouth before she could scream. Tia struggled, trying to break free, but the man's grip was iron-tight. Her heart pounded, terror flooding her as she realized how helpless she was. The darkness in the alley made it impossible to see the man clearly, but the malice in his movements was unmistakable.

The man dragged her into an even more isolated part of the alley, making sure no one saw them. He swiftly activated a small device—a relic hunter's A.R.M. (Advanced Relay Module)—and contacted someone.

A quiet voice came through the module. "Ling Mei, the girl is with me now."

On the other end, a woman's cold, calm voice replied, "Good. Make sure you take her to the arranged location."

"Where should I bring her?" the man asked.

Ling Mei paused briefly before answering, "Deliver her to the Green Serpent Clan's headquarters. They're expecting her."

Tia, hearing the conversation, began to cry in fear. She struggled harder, but her small, frail body was no match for the man's strength. Tears streamed down her face, but the man remained indifferent. With a swift motion, he covered her face with a black cloth, plunging her into total darkness.

"Understood, Ling Mei. I'll take her there now," the man said, ending the transmission.

As he marched forward, carrying Tia, her entire body shook. She had no idea who this man was, who Ling Mei was, or why they wanted her. All she knew was that she was in grave danger. Her mind raced, desperately trying to find a way out, but none of it made sense.

They moved quickly through the maze of alleys, avoiding the few people who still wandered the streets. Tia could hear their soft, calculated footsteps, each one taking her farther from everything she knew. The oppressive darkness of the alleyways made her heart race, filling her with a growing sense of dread.

"What do you want with me?" she sobbed, though her voice was muffled by the cloth over her mouth.

The man didn't respond, continuing to walk in silence. In her heart, Tia called out for Oriana, hoping her sister-figure would somehow find her and save her. But in the shadows of this desolate place, who would hear her cries?

After what felt like an eternity, they reached a rundown building. On the outside, it looked just as dilapidated as everything else in the slums, but inside, there was an unmistakably different atmosphere. The man dragged Tia through the back entrance. Inside, the room was filled with people, their cold, unfriendly gazes falling on her immediately. These were members of the Green Serpent Clan, a notorious gang that ruled over the slums with an iron grip.

The man pushed Tia onto a wooden chair in the center of the room. She still couldn't see anything, but she could feel the sharp stares of everyone around her.

"Here she is," the man said flatly. "Just as Ling Mei requested."

A man with a menacing expression, likely the leader of the group, approached her. He looked her up and down with piercing eyes before nodding to the man who had brought her. "I don't know what Ling Mei has planned, but she must have her reasons. You've done your job."

The kidnapper gave a curt nod. "What are you going to do with her?"

The leader of the Green Serpents smiled coldly. "We don't know yet. We're waiting for Ling Mei's instructions. Either way, your part is done—you've been paid."

Tia's heart sank as she listened to their conversation. What were they going to do with her? Why had she been taken? Did this have something to do with her dream of becoming a relic hunter? Her thoughts spiraled in confusion, but no answers came.

With an icy gesture, the leader signaled his men to take Tia to another room. She tried to resist, but her strength was spent. She had no choice but to follow, powerless against them.

Tears welled up in her eyes again, streaming down her cheeks. "Oriana… please… help me…" she whispered, her voice barely audible, praying for some kind of miracle. But in this forsaken part of the world, miracles seemed impossible.

In the midst of her terror, Tia could only hope that someday she would escape the clutches of the Green Serpent Clan and find her way back to the life she knew. More than anything, she longed to pursue her dream of becoming a relic hunter—a dream that felt more distant than ever.

***