To where we wander

It has been three years now and things are looking good so far. Aino is taking great steps to one day replace Mira. Raka is getting stronger, and more protective, by the day. And then Rika has learned some tricks to stay hidden from Norman when he was around.

Shiro is also doing well. She has become used to the weird feeling that she had ever since Norman did that experiment. She grew much hair during the experiment that was longer than her entire body, but instead of cutting it, she decided to keep her hair super long. It now drags on the ground, making it hard to keep in proper order. She likes her super long white hair.

Shade has taught Raka as much as he can since Raka wants to become stronger than anybody in the Kogane household. He even trains in secret to get better, though he doesn't know that Shade and Mira had noticed it long ago. He has become quite protective towards his family and that is the sole reason he tries to get stronger. He is lacking a bit on his smarts.

Rika is considered a child prodigy in many aspects. She can do things much more easily than others and she also learns new things faster than you would expect. Her ability to learn fast has gotten to the point that even Norman is a bit speechless when he teaches her new things to her. Though with her growth, she has become quite elusive and takes much time to laze around. She doesn't even try to compete with Raka much since she has become self aware of her abilities. Raka is of course furious about this, but can't do much about it. She even now can go up against Aino and to some degree with her parents as well. She still cares deeply for her family and does things behind people's back to make things better.

Aino is dead set on becoming the next head of the Kogane clan. She is very calm and proper to the point where she acts more mature than any other person in the house. She has her childish side with her still, but it is harder to get to see it. She has also proclaimed to those who wish to marry her that they have to beat her in combat first before she would even consider it. This has caused many problems for the Kogane clan, but the claim still stands in the hearts of nobles.

And speaking of marriages, many have also tried to marry Rika. In fact, Fon even suggested that Roku should marry Rika when they get older. Rika jokingly says that.

- "If he has the balls to come and take me, then he must be ready to come here with the intent of impressing a queen. If you think your fancy title can make you marry me, then you better go and marry a pig."

This statement was obviously not shared with the public. Roku did take this personally and promised to become someone that Rika wishes she could marry. Rika doesn't expect much and finds it rather adorable. As for the question if Roku has any feelings for Rika, that is not known. It might be more of a matter of pride at the moment.

Shiro, on the other hand, is considered a fine gem in the eyes of the other clan heads. She is considered to be beautiful even at that age and she is treated like a fragile glass cup that can be broken if held in too rough a manner. She could be compared to being handled with the same delicacy they do Roku himself, if not even more. Like the most precious gem in the whole of Hokori. But in fact, she is no longer too fragile and can do fine on her own for the most part, though she gets tired very easily.

There are few things that Norman didn't mention to the family when the experiment was done. He didn't tell them that Shiro is basically her very own race by herself. The blood connection is still there, but the forced evolution of the abyss had made her almost like a new species. And then there is the other fact that he is more worried about and had to even consult his brother. The fact that she gained the title "demon prince of death" is something that can't be taken lightly. The fact that she is a demon prince means that she has to have her own realm of existence where she grows power. So far, the conclusion is that her domain of influence is Norbul itself. Mors, the god of death, was also consulted about this and the conclusion was that as long as she doesn't disturb the sanctity of death, he is fine with it.

One day Shiro came to talk with Rika about Norman.

- "Hey sister?"

- "Oh, Shiro. What is it?"

- "How… How do you feel about lord Norman?"

- "Teach huh? Well, he is a bundle of knowledge, that's for sure."

- "Do you… Do you think he is cool and such?"

- "I mean sure. He can do a lot of impressive stuff and all. Why are you asking these types of things?"

- "Well, to be completely honest, I'm a bit envious of you."

- "Envious huh? Well, I got plenty of things better than you do. But don't look down on yourself. You got a lot of things going on."

- "I do?"

- "Yes. You are super, and I mean SUPER pretty. You make all the people who meet you want to protect you and such. People can't wait to get a glimpse of you. And look at me. While I'm considered pretty, no one goes to the trouble to just get a glimpse of me. Well, not that I make it easy anyways. The point is, you have plenty to be proud of yourself."

- "So being pretty is all I'm good for."

- "That's not… I mean, you aren't dumb either. Well, compared to my twin bro you aren't."

- "I don't think brother Rakasha is that stupid."

- "I'm just joking here. Don't worry. He wouldn't get mad at me saying that. Well, much. Back to the topic, you have the brains to be smarter than the average person. That I can promise you."

- "Is that so. But I wonder why lord Norman doesn't pay attention to me as much as he does you and father."

- "So this is what brought this up. I can ask him to pay you more attention, if that's what you want. But why is it so important that he pays you attention anyways?"

- "Well, I kind of feel all fuzzy when I see him. Or rather, his aura is comforting."

- "Oh dear. What should I tell dad now?"

- "Why? Is there something wrong?"

- "No, nothing is wrong. I just realized something quite troubling."

- "What is it? I would like to know."

- "There is no need for you to know. I have to go now. Seeya."

Rika decided to not tell Shade about this matter, but she did tell Mira, who was obviously troubled by this. She was able to calm herself by thinking that it's just a childhood crush and nothing else. Mira also kept this matter from Shade's ears.

Later that month when Norman came to train the kids again, while he was training Rika a bit, Rika asked him.

- So… How do you feel about Shiro?

- She is a child with troubling life circumstances. A pity would be the right word for it. Why?

- Well, would you mind paying her a bit more attention after this?

- I do observe her current state so I don't think there is any need for me to increase it more.

- I mean, she would like to be with you more. That's all I'm going to say.

- You mean… *Sigh* What a troublesome child.

- I'm going to let you think whatever you think you are thinking. I didn't say anything.

- She mistakes my presence as a voidborn as a form of affection. What should I do? Perhaps I should be blunt. No, her current state might not be suited for hardship. Then again, she can't stay out of harm's way forever and will face hardship nonetheless.

- I mean, she is still weak, but I think she could take a hit. Maybe.

- Yes, I think I will explain that what she is feeling is not affection but rather her body reacting to my presence as a voidborn.

- But what if, just hear me out, it's genuine affection?

- Then I will simply say that she has to wait for a couple decades for me to even consider her as a woman.

- That's harsh. Just out of curiosity, do you see any of us as women?

- I do, but I don't feel like I could be able to be with any of you in that way.

- Too bad. You aren't bad looking either.

- My face can look whatever I choose it to look like, so that compliment means nothing more to me than appreciating my craft.

- Fine, don't take the compliment.

Later when Norman and Rika return to the palace, Norman starts talking to Shiro.

- I hear you feel comfort when you are near me, little one.

- Y-yes.

- Understand that the reason why you feel so is because I'm voidborn and you are kindled. What power you hold in you is something that I was born from. You are like a flame admiring the glory of a sun in the sky. Don't mistake it for anything else.

- I- I don't think I fully follow, but okay. I'll try my best.

- Good.

And so Norman spent a couple of days training the new generation to do things. Mira wasn't all that happy about Norman being there, but she acknowledged his skill of teaching things.

Then came a day when Norman left for a couple of months. The next time he came, it was already winter and snow was falling from the skies. This time, he had a human boy with him that looked around fifteen. No one knew why Norman brought this boy there, and they would have many questions after they left.

During his visit, he introduced the boy.

- This person is named Nyx. My adopted son.

Shade is stunned to hear that name and asks.

- Nyx? You mean the curse lord Nyx?

- Well, at the moment, no.

- At the moment?

- The less you know, the better it is. All you need to know is that he bears no malicious intent in this life and will not harm anyone unwarranted.

- Why can't you just tell us?

- I personally think it's better for you all not to know.

- That's…

- Where is Shiro?

- She is currently watching Raka and Aino training.

- I see.

Then Norman started going towards the courtyard and Nyx followed. Out of curiosity, Shade and Mira followed them as well.

Once they were at talking distance, Norman asked Nyx and Shiro to shake hands. As they did, he told Nyx that.

- Remember this person for the rest of eternity. Carve her presence into your very being and remember it for as long as you exist. Remember, she is important. As for how she is important, you will build that understanding yourself.

- Yes father.

Shiro was confused as Nyx touched her hand. But for some reason, she could feel some comfort from that boy so she didn't mind holding his hand. It wasn't the same kind of comfort that she felt towards Norman, but it was something reminiscent of someone's peaceful passing. Nyx could also feel similar comfort from Shiro, but even he didn't know why.

Then Norman told them that they can stop now, so they did. Then Norman told Shiro.

- This person is Nyx. My adopted son. I hope you two will get along when the time comes.

Shiro says.

- Hello Nyx. My name is Shiro Kogane. It's a pleasure to meet you.

- Same.

- Do you have a last name?

- I don't.

- So you aren't from any noble house. Well, aside from being lord Norman's adopted son and all.

- I don't remember.

- You don't? Why?

- Experiments.

- Experiments?

Then Norman stops the two.

- I think that's enough of that. Today Nyx you will train along with the others.

- Okay.

Then a couple of days of Norman's tutelage were spent. Shade and Mira both tried to ask Nyx more details, but Nyx kept his mouth shut to follow his father's orders.

Then came the day when Norman and Nyx both left and they wouldn't be seen for the rest of the winter.

When the spring came, Norman came alone this time and did his normal routine of teaching some stuff to the children. Then one day, Norman told Shade to meet him in the courtyard in the middle of the night when others were sleeping. Shade followed his instructions and came to meet him during the night. Shade asked.

- So what is this all about?

- At the moment, I'm only here to translate someone's words to you so you understand them better.

- What?

Then a giant wolf suddenly materialized in front of Shade and he was surprised. His hand started to reach his weapon, until the wolf said in an echoing voice.

- Calm down now fair thunder. It is not yet time to fight.

Shade stops reaching for his weapon and composes himself. Then he says.

- I suppose you are the one that wanted to meet me.

- Yes, you are correct. For I feel that it is only the right thing to do to see someone with your potential. Or rather, for you to bask in the glory of the demon prince of the hunt, Jeger.

- Jeger?! What is someone like you doing here?

- I have come here to greet you, as you have the potential to become my greatest hunters.

Norman translates.

- He says that he sees worth in you that is befitting to be one of his servants.

Jeger says.

- That's a bit of a harsh way to put it. Nay, I simply wish to see you bask in the glory of the hunt. To save the prey of others to be able to live another day.

- He says that he wants to see you use your abilities to their fullest and save people incapable of protecting themselves.

- Correct! It is but a shame to see someone of your caliber live the life of cattle when you can be the mighty hunter of hunters. To turn other hunters into your prey.

- He sees that someone like you shouldn't live a life this stagnant and peaceful when you could be a killer of killers or a killer of monsters.

Shade says.

- But I have the duty of being a father and a husband.

Jeger says.

- It is always something that changes in nature. For which parent should stay and watch the kids and should the other parent participate at all. Or should both parents participate in the growth of their young. Your mate has become someone who has gotten used to living like cattle and staying in shelter. She can't see the way of a hunter anymore. But this quality is not to be seen as unnecessary, for it is the prime quality of being the parent who stays. You have always been a hunter, so you should return to your roots and feel the glory of the hunt.

- To put it simple, Amirasha could easily take care of your kids in your absence. She might not understand the feeling of being a wanderer so she might not let you go easily. Also, he said that you are meant to be a wandering savior who helps others in need.

Shade thinks for a moment. Then Jeger says.

- I hear that people like you can't stand seeing the common folk suffer and would use all they can to save them. Do you want to watch the common folk suffer?

- I…

- Do you feel like the price of your presence here is worthy of the lives that are lost in your absence?

- … But if I leave, then the reason why I was a wanderer was all for nothing.

- Do not falter. You just simply didn't see it back then. You didn't see that you were born a hunter like your brother. Unlike him however, you have the power to be the mightiest of hunters.

- I… I need to think about this for a while.

- As you wish. But know this fair thunder, the more time you spend on pondering in this safe space, the more people will suffer in your absence. I recommend that once you leave, you only leave a note. For if you discuss this with your mate, she is surely to discourage you to not leave the nest of your making.

Then Jeger leaves like a phantom and now there are only Shade and Norman. Norman starts talking.

- I honestly think that I wasn't needed, but I did what was asked of me.

- What do you think?

- About what?

- What should I do?

- I'm afraid that is something only you can answer. The question is, for the needs of the many or the needs of the few?

Then Norman leaves and now Shade was left there standing in silence.

For a couple of days he spent thinking, he didn't say a word to anyone. Mira of course noticed something was off and asked him what was wrong. Shade didn't say anything about meeting Jeger and simply told her that he was fine.

Couple of days later, Mira found a letter next to her when she woke up. The letter said.

"I'm leaving now to save people. I don't know where I'm going or if I ever will return, but know that I will always love you all from the bottom of my heart.

If you have questions about my disappearance, ask Norman when he is around. He should be able to tell you what made all this happen and I hope it will ease your worries even for a tiny bit.

If you come to hate me, then I completely understand. I will hold on to my wows as a husband and never sleep with anyone else. If it's too much for you to bear, I don't blame you if you take a liking to some other man. Of course I would be hurt if this were the case, but since I was the one who first hurt you, I will bear with that pain for the rest of my life.

Please take care of the kids in my absence. My duty as the forest guardian should still be covered by Aurora's presence.

With all my love, I leave you now for an unknown future. I hope you will stay well even if I'm not there.

I will love you always.

Kaj Myrsky. Shade."

Mira had a confused look on her face. "This can't be real" Flowed through her head as she tried to process the message. Sheread it again and again to make sure she got it right. She then manically started asking people if they've seen Shade anywhere, but no one had seen him. People began to search as the rumor spread that Shade had left them. Mira made sure to not worry the kids, so she ordered others to keep this a secret for now. But little did she know, Rika was awake when Jeger talked to Shade and knew what was happening. Rika just only hoped during these couple of days, that her dad wouldn't be convinced to leave his family. She was disappointed to see the commotion going on and realizing what had transpired.

When the family gathered to eat breakfast, Raka asked.

- "Where is dad?"

Mira answered with a swift.

- "Don't worry about it. He will come later."

Shiro says.

- "Maybe he is hunting something again. Though it is a shame that he would leave us to eat by ourselves."

Mira said.

- "Yes, that's probably it."

All but Rika had a bit of a confused look on their faces as they realized that their mother didn't know where their father was. They didn't say a word about it though, since they could feel that their mother was in distress.

A day went by with no sign of Shade. No one had seen or heard from him after he disappeared. Then Norman showed up and Mira grabbed him by the collar and asked him while the kids were watching.

- What happened to Shade?!

- So this is what he chose. I must say I'm a bit disappointed.

- Tell me!

- Demon prince of hunt made him realize that his powers could be used for betterment of people. After being told that, he chose to use his powers for that purpose.

- Why didn't he tell me about it?!

- Jeger convinced him that you would falter his decision and so he saw it better to leave without consulting you first. I guess this is the case since you have almost no idea of what happened. Did he leave you a letter?

- Yes! But why did he choose other people over his family?!

- Needs of the many or needs of the few. That is what I told him he should think about when he asked for my guidance. He chose the former.

- But why? Why?! Weren't we important to him?!

- Did he say he wasn't on the letter?

- No. He told me that he loved us.

- Then you know the answer.

- Why did it end up like this? Why weren't we enough? Am I wrong to ask him to be with us instead of saving people.

- That is something you must find out for yourself.

Mira let go and started crying. Then Shiro also started crying. Aino got teary eyed but didn't fully cry. Raka was furious over his father's decision and Rika stayed calm and collected. Rika knew that this wasn't an easy decision on her father either. Nevertheless, she felt sad when she realized her dad had truly left them for the betterment of others. He had chosen others over his family.

Mira called off the search over Shade and so the Kogane family learned to live with the fact that he abandoned them. And so the years went by.