Karl Ernst's Last Journey

The Tale

Karl Ernst was inspecting an envelope.

Normally, he was given jobs through letters inside envelopes. Those envelopes had red and blue stamp in the middle. However, this particular envelope he received was not like the usual.

It had a green stamp instead. Curiousity filled his mind, and he decided to open it. If he already had questions about the envelope, the letter gave him more question.

The letters’ content for his jobs had characteristics. They always started with ‘Dear Karl Ernst’, written in a smooth writing. The rest was a name of person or a place. Next to them was a symbol of skull marked with red ‘X’ or a shield. The former meant as ‘kill’ or ‘destroy’, while the latter meant ‘protect’ or ‘defend’. It was just that simple for him.

But this one, had none of the above.

“What do you want to do now?”

He mumbled the exact same words as the letter said. He went into thinking of the words meant. Does the sender want me to do as I please? Or perhaps the sender wants to test me if I’m obedient? Or maybe, I already done all the jobs? Still the main question, is this the same person who has been sending me these letters?

Question after question came and went pass his mind for few minutes. In the middle of the thought, he looked up to the vast blue sky above. Soon after, a small breeze blew past his face, making him unconsciously turned his head to his left. His eyes widen at the view.

A panorama of green hills as far as the eye could see.

His mouth agaped at the sight. Karl realized that ever since he went away, he never had the chance to admire the beauties of nature. His mind for a moment drifted to a small memory of his childhood, where he and his sisters were playing on top of a hill. Once the sun sets, they always took a moment to see it before going home and was welcomed with scolding of a concerned mother.

“Sisters, mother...” His tone was low and sorrowful. His gaze remained on one spot. Then, he looked again to the letter. He thought again about what it said.

“What I want to do...” Another breeze caressed his rough cheeks, tickling it until it reached his facial hairs. Slowly, a smile rose from his face. He carefully folded the letter into the envelope, putting it in his bag, then he hopped into his horse.

“Let’s go home, Braun.” Sounds of dashing horse rang down the hill, signaling the start of Karl Ernst’s journey back home.

---

Papilda. A transit town which was famous among travellers and merchants. The place was sandwiched between mountains, forests, and meadows. Karl arrived at Papilda at noon. He heard about the city before, but never actually stepped foot inside. He decided to take a look while getting some supplies and a place to take a rest.

He went to the market first. He was welcomed with various things sold there, such as local fruits, clothes, and even some accessories. Sadly, Karl was not a person who kept souvenirs from places he visited. He only bought new blankets, dried fish, fruits, and water. He was tempted to buy a wine, but he refused.

“Okay, that part is taken care of. I suppose looking around won’t hurt.”

He spent the entire afternoon walking around the city, until the sun almost set. He decided to look for an inn. Fortunately, he met an old man whom he helped carrying stuffs just now knew the perfect place.

“Barisia Inn. You have a horse, don’t you? Their stable was the biggest and the manager is pretty too,” informed the old man while winking a few times at Karl. Karl let out a dry chuckle. He thanked the old man and went to the address of the inn. Once he made sure the place was correct, he entered and was welcomed with a cheerful voice.

“Welcome to Barisia! How may I help you today?”

It came from the pretty young lady who was standing behind the counter. She wore an apron over a white shirt. Her smile never left as she kept her gaze into Karl. Karl stepped right into the counter and flashed a smile as well.

“Two rooms please. One for me, and one for my buddy.”

“Pardon? Oh you mean the stable yes?”

“Yes.”

“Ahaha. We will prepare one for your ‘friend’ too.” She pulled over a registry book, then Karl wrote down his name in it.

“There you go.” Karl gently pushed it towards her. She took it, and her eyebrow rose.

“Thank you, Mister... Zenden?” Karl nodded to convince her. She shrugged, then took a key from the shelf.

“Your room is on the second floor; at the end of the hall on the left. I will ask one of the employees to take care of your horse. Anything else I can help?” Karl put his fingers on his chin, before shaking his head.

“That’s all. Oh, in case I’m asleep, can you wake me up around dinner and breakfast?” The register girl nodded.

“Of course! Is there also food you do not wish, sir?”

“Anything is fine.” Karl grabbed the key from her hands, then went upstairs.

“Enjoy your stay at Barisia!”

Once Karl reached his room, he was welcomed with sweet fragrance and wood smell. He eyed the room for a moment. After putting his stuffs on the table, he opened the window. He was welcomed with the view of grasslands on the outside of the city, bathed under the setting sun. He let it open to get some fresh air inside. He laid down on the bed, and sense of comfort embraced him.

“Might as well enjoy this for now. Who knows where I will end up tomorrow.” Did not take long until his consciousness flew off into the dreamland.

---

“Karl. Hey Karl!” Karl lazily opened his eyes and was welcomed with a sight of an angry girl. Her hands were on her hips; a basket full of apples on her left hand, her cheeks looked like a balloon, and her eyebrows knitted together. Karl sighed, then stretched himself.

“Yes, Nora?”

“I’ve been looking for you everywhere! I thought I asked you to pick up some apples for lunch, but here you are!” Karl gave an uniterested look at the furious Nora, then folded his arms and closed his eyes again.

“I see you already grabbed them by yourself. Way to go sis.”

“You! I had enough! You need to be taught some lesson,” said Nora in a low tone as she put down the basket. Suddenly, Karl felt something on his hips. Nora was already in front of him with a grin which made Karl gulped nervously.

“Um... Nora...”

“Take this!”

“HAAHAYAHAHAYHAYAYAYYAHA! NORYA! STYO-HAHAHA.”

Nora tickled Karl intensely. Karl tried many times to break away, but she always put him in a bearhug before tickling him again.

“Ready to give up now?”

“Ahahaaha. Please...”

“What’s that?”

“Enough... big sis Nora...” an exhausted and teary-eyed Karl plead to Nora which caused Nora felt like she was being electrocuted. Her desire to merely get back at Karl turned into something else.

“Big sis Nora...” Nora let go of Karl for a moment, until she leaped off on top of him like a lion pin down its prey.

“Karl... Karl... Karl...” She repeatedly called his name like something snapped inside of her. Karl was genuinely afraid of his sister at this point. Suddenly, sounds of quick footsteps reached both of them.

“Hey you two! What are you two playing? Oh! Are you going to kiss? Yuck!” said a little girl with white dress while rolling her tongue out in disgust.

Nora snapped back to her usual self and quickly got off of Karl. She turned her face away from the other two. Karl dusted himself off and kneeled in front of the little girl.

“Martha, who taught you about that word?”

“Oh right! Nora!” Martha innocently pointed at Nora. Karl turned around and glared at Nora, who whistled innocently. Karl sighed, then ruffled Martha’s hair.

“You must not listen to weird stuffs like that from Nora. She is teaching you something that a girl of your age shouldn’t know yet,” lectured Karl sternly.

“Eh why?”

“You will find out later when you are an adult.”

“Uh... okay Karl.” She looked down, but she quickly cheered up when Karl lifted her up and spun her around.

“Ahahaha, this is fun!”

After the siblings laughed together and Martha came to see them because their mother had come home. The three went home side by side, but Karl stopped in the middle.

“Karl, what’s wrong?”

“Karl?”

“Look, you two.” The two girls followed his brother gaze, and both of them had their mouths opened.

In between the mountains, the curtain was closing for the sun to perform for the day. It was the first time the siblings watched a sunset, not to mention together. Karl put his arms on both of their shoulders.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” The two nodded. He then asked again.

“But do yo know what is more beautiful?” The two shook their heads. Chuckled, he answered,

“My sisters.” In an instance, both of them gave a mixed reaction. Nora stuttered everytime she tried to speak, Martha smiled brightly while hugging Karl. He looked again at the sunset, admiring it at every second.

“Let’s watch sunset together again tomorrow.” His suggestion was met with another nod from the other two. Though nobody expected that this was also the last time they watched sunset together.

“Ah!”

Karl eyes shot open. The sound of evening breeze rang a smooth melody. He got up to close the window and the curtain. He noticed a sensation on his cheek. He ran his finger on it, then muttered,

“I’m sorry.” Suddenly, a knock on the door surprised Karl.

“Mr. Zenden! Dinner is ready!” The register girl called Karl, which was responded quickly by him.

“I will be on my way.” Karl washed his face before going out. Outside, the register girl was still standing in front of the door.

“Why are you still here?”

“Oh, uhm, I was just checking for the next door guest. And you just came out at the same moment,” replied the girl without making an eye contact with Karl. Karl chuckled at her answer. He knew she was lying but he seemed not mind with that.

“Ah, is that so? Hmm, I haven’t caught your name yet.” She turned to face Karl and introduced herself.

“M-My name is Tiana, sir!”

“Well then, lead the way, Tiana.” Tiana nodded and nervously walked in front of him.

At the dining hall, Karl took a seat near a window while Tiana excused herself to bring the food. He drank a glass of water to wait for her. Not many people ate there with him, but most of them were a party. He stared at a group who had just finished eating and now drinking. They started laughing a lot. His tounge clicked, and he averted his gaze to the night sky. Fortunately, Tiana came

“Here you go sir. An omelette with chicken soup. Since I believe you came from a long journey, this might give you more energy.”

“Thank you Tiana. By the way, are you busy right now?”

“Yes, we are short of staffs for tonight, I need to help with the cooking sir. Why do you ask, sir?”

“No, it’s alright.” Karl took a spoon of the omelette and the soup.

“Hmm, delicious. Did you make this?” Her face lit up and she nodded.

“Yes! I’m glad that you like it.” Tiana’s happy time was cut short when her staffs asked to bring another food. She responded quickly and bowed apologetically at Karl, who told her to go. Karl was sincere when he said that. Warm food made by a pretty girl brought so much memories of his sister cooking. For him, Tiana was still below his sister. Though, it didn’t matter for him right now.

“Excuse me sir, but I really can not.” Tiana’s plead caused Karl to stop his dinner. Everyone’s attention turned towards the drunken group.

“C’mon girl. Hang with us for a while. We need more company for us, right boys?” His friends enthusiastically agreed. However, Tiana felt uncomfortable with the looks the men gave her. And suddenly one of them reached out to her butt.

“Kyaa!”

“Oh, nice one. Fine asset there, gi-” A slap across the face from Tiana sent the man down to the floor. His lecherous expression turned furious as he and his friends got up roughly.

“Oh, being feisty are we?” Tiana got herself surrounded. At first she instinctively slapped the man after harassing her, but she forgot that they would definitely not to stay calm.

“That’s not how you treat customer, dear. Should we teach you a lesson?”

“I-I’m sorry! I did not mean to-”

“I don’t need your sorry! You hit me, and now face the consequences.” The slapped man gripped Tiana’s wrist, and she yelped in pain. Karl had seen enough. His rage was boiling and he was ready to throw his punch.

“Basta-”

“Hands off!” Unfortunately, he was not the first to reach the man.

An object whipped the man’s hand very hard. He was clutching his injured hand while looking at the perpetrator. A little girl with a whip which let out a noise everytime she dragged it on the floor. He was about to call for help, but his pary was taken down quickly.

One of them was pinned down by a girl with a scarf. The girl put her hand on his face, then the man fell unconscious. The other two were clutching their stomaches in pain. In front of them, another girl with a traditional eastern clothing pulled out a talisman with foreign letters on it. She muttered a spell which caused the men on the floor got hit by a lightning which came from the talisman.

“I thought this place is civilized and respectful towards others, but I suppose some ruffians will always exist.” The girl’s tone was confident and brave. She looked directly to the eyes of the man. Her blue and red eyes sent shivers to the man. The man bit his lip. Just when he was about to scram, a cold hard sensation reached his back. The scarfed girl was pressing a tip of a knife into the man’s back.

“Don’t move.” The man had nowhere to go. And now the scarlet haired girl clutched her right hand into a fist.

“Instead, how about you learn how to behave first. If you really are a man. Hah!”

“Kugh!”

The girl’s full powered punch sent the man out of the inn. She kissed her fist, before turning towards Tiana.

“You are safe now, lady. You must not let those men to take advantage of you. If you think they’re being annoying, just show them!” The redhead shouted while clutching her fist.

“Y-Yes. Thank you!” Tiana’s awed response and gratitude seemed enough to satisfy the three girls who came to her aid. Meanwhile, Karl ran his hand on his beard as he looked on the girls.

Those girls are not ordinary. They are well-trained in magic and physical prowess. Even for girls of their size, they are strong.

Everyone thanked the girls and they had a feast. Karl, however, decided to sit far away and wrapped up his dinner. After he finished gulping down the rest of his wine, he went back to his room. But suddenly he bumped into someone.

“Hm?” he looked at the person, which was turned out to be the eastern clothing girl.

“Move it, kid.” He gently pushed the girl aside, but the girl suddenly collapsed. In panic, her companions ran towards her. The scarfed girl checked on her while the maroon-haired girl glared at Karl.

“What did you do to my sister?!”

“I don’t know. I only pushed her a little, but she just fell.” Karl replied in a calm tone. The girl became irritated by it.

“Apologize to her! If you just want to pass, you can ask politely!”

“Hey, she actually ran into me first! If anything, she should be the one apologizing!” Karl did not want to argue, but he felt that him taking the blame was not right.

“Vi-Vittoria...” A muffled sound tried to call the emotional girl.

“Wait a moment, elder sister. He needed to be told manners.”

“Um...Vitalia...is asleep.” Her anger dropped immediately, and she turned to see Vitalia had fallen asleep. Apparently, she collapsed because she did not have any strength left to keep awake.

“O-Oh. Heavens! This little sister of mine habit of sleeping in random places and random times are just problematic.”

“Well... I will bring... her to the room...” The scarfed girl carried Vitalia on her back before asking the key from Vittoria. She stopped for a moment in front of Karl, then she bowed to him.

“I am sorry, dear sir. My sisters have their respective habits. I hope you can forgive them.” The scarfed girl sincerely apologized. However, Karl merely scoffed.

“It’s not your fault, so you’re not supposed to apologize for them.” Vittoria winced. Karl turned his attention towards the scarfed girl. Her lower face area was covered by a cloth as well. Her skin was pale, not that it was showing much since her body was covered up. He tried to look into her eyes, but what he saw was emptiness.

“Y-Yes.” She turned her face around, did not want to be stared by Karl any longer. Eventually, Vittoria spoke.

“I am sorry. I should not have spoken so rudely. I was just worried for my sister, since she is not always feeling well.” Vittoria apologized sincerely. Karl nodded and perhaps due to the scarfed girl politeness, he decided to just accept the apology.

“Good. And what’s your name, girl?” The scarfed girl slowly looked up to Karl.

“My name is Valeria.” She bowed slightly in respect.

“Nice name.”

“Thank you. Our mother gave us our names.”

“Do you still need something from us? We would like to take some rest. We came from a long journey.” Vittoria chimed in. Karl noticed that it was very late.

“I guess no more from me. Go ahead.”

“Very well. Good night sir.” Valeria said her farewell, followed by Vittoria. They went upstairs and soon a sound of door being opened and closed was heard. Karl decided to call it off for the day too. He went back to his room as well to get some rest before a long journey tomorrow.

---

The peaceful breakfast time at Barisia was cut when a man came into the inn in a terrible shape. His clothes was torn, cuts and bruises painted his face, and he was limping. Recognizing the person, Tiana dropped her tray instantly and ran towards the man.

“What happened Costa?” asked Tiana with a worried look. Costa tried to explain, but he coughed a lot after that.

“Costa!” She rubbed his back gently until he calmed down. She led him to a seat nearby and ask others to bring medical kit and a water. The others started talking among themselves about Costa’s condition. Once the medical kit arrived, she gave him a glass of water and patched him up. After she was done treating him, he spoke.

“Everyone... I... have a bad news...” his voice was still hoarse, but the last part made some people gulped.

“The Tiger Raiders are coming back.” Everyone went silent and colors were drained from their faces. The air suddenly became tense. Costa then continued.

“They came out of nowhere when I was on patrol near the east forest. They managed to rough me up good, but I got one of their horses. Fortunately, they are not after me.”

“Still, who knows when they are coming here right?” All eyes turned to towards Vittoria. Costa weakly nodded at her response.

“In that case, we will stop them,” said Vittoria confidently. Tiana approached her and held her shoulder.

“Young miss, these raiders are not just your ordinary bandits. They were ferocious and had no mercy on their prey. The last time they came here, we need the army to help us. But we had so many casualties.”

“However, we are not just any travellers miss Tiana.” Vittoria put her hand on top of Tiana’s, before gently pushed them away. She turned her head upwards until their eyes met.

“Perhaps you remembered last night, we took care of those guys with ease. Mind you, that is not even our full capabilities. We have prepared ourselves for any obstacles.” She slammed her whip hardly on the floor.

“We are used to deal this kind of situation.”

“Well... once Vittoria set her mind on something, she won’t back down.” Valeria and Vitalia both spoke their mind. Despite the reassurance, the citizens couldn’t just let a group of children alone against The Tiger Raiders. Suddenly, a voice called from the back.

“I can take care of them.” Karl walked up towards the girls. He turned his gaze all over the room before speaking again.

“If you guys can pay me.” Everyone was shocked to hear his demand. Vittoria couldn’t believe and stood right in front of him with her eyebrows knitted together and wore a stern expression.

“What? You want a share? Don’t worry, since I’m generous, you girls can have the 50%,” said Karl casually. However, Vittoria was furious.

“How could you ask something in return for helping others? Have you ever being taught of sincerity?”

“Sincere?” Karl snickered. “You are in the position of putting your lives on the line. Why go so far without having a reward after finishing the deed?” In his mind, Karl merely saw her as a naïve girl and foolish.

“Because I want to protect everyone. I want to make sure everyone can live their days in peace and harmony, without having conflicts disturbed them. And it is also the job for the strong to fight for the weak.”

“Bold statement there. Can you back it up?”

“We will show you! We will put an end of this raiders. Sisters, let us go!”

“Hm.”

“Okay...”

“Wait a second!” Tiana cut in suddenly.

“Mr. Zenden, I will pay you to accompany them against the Raiders.” Karl eyebrow raised in interest.

“Hoo. Just so you know, I don’t come cheap,” commented Karl while making a money gesture.

Tiana closed her eyes while shaking. She merely said it instinctively. Her brain was processing every possible answers, but nothing came up right for her. Karl smirked.

“Since you have been serving me well, I suppose I will do the job first. I’ll come to collect my payment later.” He made his way pass Tiana, before whispering something to her. “Make sure to have it ready by tonight.” Tiana bit her lip, then nodded. Satisfied, Karl opened the door and looked over his shoulder at the three sisters.

“You can complain to Tiana all you want, but the raiders won’t wait for us you know.” Realizing the truth behind the sentence, the three followed Karl and preparing themselves for perhaps their toughest challenge yet.

---

The party of four people and one horse were marching out of the city. The girls were walking side by side, while Karl was riding his horse from a distance behind. Vittoria made it perfectly clear before leaving that only her and her sisters were needed to defeat the raiders. Karl honestly did not care, since he just needed to keep the girls safe as part of the job. Although, Karl could not help but interested in The Tiger Raiders. He put his hand on his weapon; making sure that it was ready.

The party reached an open field of grassland. From afar, they spotted multiple smokes. Seeing this, Vittoria put up her hand. A medium-sized fireball was summoned. Karl eyes’ blinked at the sight, but his pupil went wide when the fireball turned into an firebird.

“Carina, scout the enemy.” As if it understood Vittoria, the firebird soared and headed straight into the sources of the smokes. Meanwhile, the party was watching at Vittoria. Her left eyes changed colors multiple times.

“What is going on with her?” asked Karl.

“Vittoria is using ‘Far Eyes’. Carina’s vision took over her left eye as long as this ability is activated. With this, it’s convenient for us to check out the enemy,” explained Valeria.

“Hoo, interesting skills.” Karl rubbed his chin in amazement. He knew that special ablity users were quite rare, so seeing one in action was something for him. Part of him was glad that she wasn’t his enemy. For now at least.

After a few minutes eyeing the camp, Carina returned towards the party. It turned into a fireball again in Vittoria’s palm before it vanished. Vittoria’s eye was slowly returning back to red again.

“Okay, I will explain the situation,” said Vittoria as she turned to face her companions.

“The camp have 5 tents, with 1 single big tent in the middle of the camp. I assumed the big tent belongs to the leader. They have placed 2 watchtowers, one for each gate. By the looks of it, their just finished hunting and might start preparing for another attack. I suggest we strike them down now.”

“Hold it. You are just gonna charge through the enemy directly? Are you stupid?” Karl snorted at Vittoria’s suggestion.

“Of course not! What I meant to say is, that we lure the enemy out.”

“Y’know they might not fall for our taunt...” Karl still unconvinced, but Vittoria hold a finger and wiggled it in front of him.

“Oh, they will alright.” She called her sisters closer, but shooed Karl away. Karl didn’t even come closer. Once they finished discussing, Valeria had a look of concern.

“This might turn ugly, Vittoria.”

“Fear not, sister. We have come prepared. Let’s get closer to the camp.” Karl was told to follow them a bit farther like previously. When they were quite near the entrance, they stopped. Vittoria nodded at Vitalia, who let out a wooden staff from out of nowhere. Karl wanted to ask, but was signaled to stay quiet and to crouch together with his horse.

“O Ruler of the Sky. Lend me your strength in punishing these infidels. Raging Thunder!”

As soon as she spoke those words, dark clouds gathered on top of the camp. They shot multiple thunder bullets at a rapid pace. From afar it could be heard the commotion inside. After several attacks, the raiders left the camp with shocked and confused expression. Valeria fell on her knees; exhausted by using magic for too long.

“Oh, they’re heading out. Good work, Vitalia. Leave the rest to us. Sister!”

“Right behind you.” Valeria pulled out her daggers immediately and the two charged towards the enemy. Karl facepalmed at the sight. Frontal assault? These kids are nuts!

“These kids... Hey, is it alright to just let them go like this?” asked Karl to Vitalia who is out of breath at the moment. Vitalia weakly nodded.

“Don’t... worry. They are strong.”

“I know that. Just drink this.” He tossed the water bag at Vitalia. She gulped it down slowly. Now Karl returned his attention towards the two sisters. Perhaps now these two can get serious.

The enemy noticed two figures were approaching. Instantly alerted by them, they readied their weapons at haste.

“Take them down!” Ordered the leader of the raiders. They quickly grabbed their bow and arrows then started shooting them at Vittoria and Valeria.

In response, Vittoria raised her left arm and chanted a spell. A thick, bluish turtle shell appeared and shielded her from the rain of arrows. Meanwhile, Valeria hit the ground deeply before launching herself like a bullet through the enemy lines. Like a ghost, she suddenly appeared in front of the leader, whose vision turned upside down as rain of blood sprayed the surrounding.

“Hii!”

The raiders cowered in fear seeing their leader head rolled on the grass. Jumping quickly from the leader’s horse, she connected her daggers together then linked them up with a chain.

“Hmph!” She threw the chained daggers across the archers. Their arms were cut off instantly.

“AAAAARGHH!!” All of them roared in pain. Not want to be outshined, Vittoria stroke the enemy as well with her swordwhip. She even took some of them down with punches and kicks as well.

On the back, Karl decided to approach with Vitalia. He put her on his horse, then observed the slaughter.

“Your sister is not just strong; they’re terrifying!” Karl shouted in amazement and awe. These children were like killing machines. He recalled again the eyes of Valeria. She must’ve claimed people lives too many times. Karl began to wonder.

“I thought I was the only one who turned like this when I was a child. But, these kids... What happen to them?”

“Sir?”

“What is it?” Karl was interrupted by Vitalia. Her tired eyes which were usually covered by her black bangs were staring at Karl’s, silently curious at what the man was thinking at the moment.

“Are you... afraid of my sisters?”

Her question strucked Karl. He turned to see the continuous battle between the recovered raiders against the two. Vittoria continued to send vicious slash as Valeria now turned to watch her back. Coordinated well between attack and defense.

“A bit,” admitted him honestly. Vitalia sighed at his response.

“So, now you believe what sister Vittoria said earlier? This guys were just warmup.”

“Heh?” Karl nodded. It seemed that the two really could handle themselves thus far.

---

After fighting for 15 minutes, the enemy numbers’ were dwindling. Vittoria and Valeria was about to catch their breaths, until a loud trumpet was sounded from the camp. Heavy footsteps approached the sisters. They came from a massive bear. It roared at them with anger.

The others made a circle around the girls. From behind the bear, a man came out with a confident expression. He wore a headwear made from a tiger skin. His leather armor was bundled with knives. His figure towered the girls, with arms and legs were almost matched the bear.

“So, you are the ones responsible of annihilating my men?” asked him with a deep but composed voice.

“That’s right. I assumed you are the leader of the Tiger Raiders?” Vittoria responsed without a hint of intimidation from the creatures next to the man.

“Before I answered that, I must say I admire your bravery. I thought you are just brats trying to taunt to lure us.”

The other raiders laughed at the two since their leader had arrived. He smiled at the two before introducing himself.

“I am Kahn. Leader of Tiger Raiders. I have conquered places and tamed the beasts of this continent throughout the years. You maybe know from the Papilda folks, but we used to run this place too. And now we are back to claim what was rightfully ours,” said Kahn confidently.

The raiders raised a cry for their leader. A smirk appeared on his face as they continued to call his name. However, the girls didn’t budge.

“Oh? And why is that this place are not yours anymore? Because someone kicked your butt so far that you need to be smothered by mommy?” Vittoria taunted Kahn. Suddenly, the tension rose up to eleven as she said that. The cry stopped. Kahn’s smirk dropped. He closed his eyes, then smiled again.

“Well, that is a long story my dear. In fact, why don’t we talk about this in my tent?” Kahn tried to put his hand on Vittoria’s shoulder, but quickly retracted it when a dagger almost cut his arm.

“Don’t touch my sister,” threatened Valeria in an emotionless but chilling voice. Kahn in the other hand, became more amused.

“Oh, so you’re sisters? Interesting, interesting. You see, I want to have strong people in order to help me. And you two are just what I need.” He circled the sisters. Valeria kept her daggers ready at Kahn.

“Ah that reminds me, are you also the one who is responsible for burning our lunch?” asked Kahn. Vittoria shook her head.

“None of it is your concern. In fact, you should be concern about me and my sister humiliate you in front of your men.” The raiders angrily swore at the girls, only to be silenced by Kahn.

“Wohoo, a challenge? Oh my, it’s been a while since I had one.” Kahn returned to the side of his bear. He put a hand on his back and stroke it like a proud master.

“But first, you have to deal with Sasha first.”

Sasha roared as he said its name. He retreated back to the crowd while sitting in a throne mad of woods and animal bones.

“Whatever. Let’s get this over with.” Vittoria smacked her swordwhip on the ground. “I’m just in a mood to tame some naughty animals.”

“Ready when you are.”

The two took a few steps back before readying themselves. When Sasha roared and charged in blazing speed, the two quickly jumped aside.

“Get ‘em Sasha!”

“Show them who is the boss!”

The crowd cheered for the bear as they waited for a slaughter of the girls. After wiping the sweat on her forehead, Vittoria swung her swordwhip multiple times at the bear. But the bear merely took it without protecting itself.

“Huh? It didn’t work?”

“Let me try. Shadow slash.” Valeria sent multiple attacks at once using her agility, but unfortunately Sasha read her moves and grabbed her by the throat.

“Ugh!” It tightened the grip before slamming the scarfed girl so hard into the ground.

“Ah!” She cried out in pain as the bear raised her again. Fearing for her sister’s life, Vittoria chanted a spell which makes her arms and legs turned to tiger’s. She punched the bear square in the face. It loosened the grip to Valeria and staggered.

“Sister!” Vittoria quickly caught her sister. Worry plastered her face when she looked at her sister unmoving. She checked for pulse and heaved sigh when she found it. She tried to look for Vitalia, but realized that Vitalia was behind and were running out of magic.

“Hmm? Shall we continue?” She gasped at the sight of Kahn. Without waiting, he landed a heavy blow on her stomach. She was thrown into the crowd who angrily shoved her down.

“Oi! We want to see more fight! Get back you!”

“Kuh...” Vittoria clutched her stomach. It stung everytime she touched it. She looked at her sister, who is now being stepped on by Kahn.

“You!” Violent cough stopped her and she fell on the ground. The raiders laughed at the pathetic sight of the girls.

“Huh... How boring. Just that and you are out already. I guess brats are still brats in the end.” He went pass Valeria and stopped in front of Vittoria.

“I’m impressed by your endurance girl. You have beaten my men and still tried to fight Sasha. I like girls like you.” He yanked her by the hair and looked at her awful look.

Tears falling nonstop as sobs accompanied from her mouth. Dirt painted her face. She tried to pry away, but her strength wouldn’t come out.

“Hush, baby. There is no need to be afraid. Look.” He moved her to see Sasha near Valeria, but unmoving. “You’re sister is okay. Maybe, with a little of broken bones.” He chuckled, seemingly enjoying the expression on Vittoria.

“I will tell you what. I will let your sister go. Under one condition.” He licked his lips in lust. Vittoria gulped.

“You come with me for a bit. Someone needs to pay for amount of losses I had.” He put his hand on her torso, sending shivers throughout her body.

“Smooth skin.” He then smelled her hair.

“So fragrant. And beautiful.” He stroked it gently as he continued to sniff. Vittoria bit her lip. She was really horrified and disgusted. She wanted to fight back, but she knew that if she resisted just a bit, Valeria’s fate would be sealed. Kahn ran his fingers slowly upwards from Vittoria’s stomach.

“Let’s see what we-”

A loud explosion rang followed by the sound of Sasha fell on its back interrupted his activity. A hole was made on its forehead and puddle of blood formed under her. Kahn turned to see his beloved bear lifeless. Dead.

“A-Ah...” Before he could even grief, a horse ran through the crowd and with multiple explosions set off. Just when he collected himself, the horse stopped in front of him. One of the riders aimed his weapon at him.

“Put the girl down.”

“Huh?”

A bullet went pass his head.

“Drop her, or this one will reunite you with your pet.”

“You’re threatening me?”

“Yes.” Kahn was surprised by the calm but serious response of the man. He threw Vittoria aside and got up. Vitalia jumped down from the horse and quickly attended Vittoria.

“Sister!” Once she was within reach, Vittoria quickly sunk her face to Vitalia’s chest. She sobbed uncontrollably.

“Shh, I’m here. I’m here.” She continued to wail when the rider dismounted. His weapon kept aiming at Kahn.

“I remember you guys. I took care of you when you tried to steal cattles in Himuria. So you’re the leader now?”

“Who are you?” Kahn tried to keep his composure as his heart racing due to the fact the man just spat. The man scratched his cheek before talking.

“Ah... you forget about me. The one who kicked your rear to the pig pen and made you wet yourself.”

“No way...” Kahn denied in horror. The raiders were surprised to hear this, but Kahn expression explained it all.

“Yes way.” The man took out a bullet which cleared Kahn’s confusion.

“Silver bullet...”

“Not anymore. I’m Zenden now.” Karl was smiling. He loaded it to his weapon and a clicking sound was heard.

“And this time, I’ll take the prize.”

“Ugh!” Kahn desperately ran into Valeria, then pulled out a knife. Vittoria and Vitalia gasped at the action. Kahn smirked evilly.

“You want to kill me? Go ahead. I’ll take this one with me.”

Karl was unmoved. He kept his weapon ready. One of the raiders tried to make a move, but was silenced permanently when a dart thrust his throat.

“Tell your men to back off. This is our fight only.”

“What’s that? You think I will let you get away after taking my men and Sasha’s lives? NO!” He tightened the grip on the knife, and pressed the tip on top of Valeria’s chest.

“Let her go! Please!” Vitalia pleaded while still holding her sister.

“Make me!”

“As you wish.” Karl put his finger on the trigger, with Kahn just about to stab Valeria.

“NOOOOOOOO!” Vittoria screamed her lungs out as Kahn did the same afterwards.

“GUAAAAAAAGH!” His body convulsed as his body pushed back away from Valeria. Blood gushed from the hole on his shoulder. The raiders were about to attack them, until they saw a massive troops came at them in full speed. They carried a famous banner from a certain noble family.

“They got backup? Run for your lives! Run!” Without even caring for their hurting boss, the Tiger Raiders retreated like scaredy cats. Karl picked up the injured Valeria and looked down on Kahn.

“You’re lucky I let you live. As much as these girl deserved payback, you are not the right person to punish them.”

Kahn could only wither in pain. Karl turned his back and leave him. The troops took Kahn into custody. He then left Valeria at the hands of the medics. Vittoria was also receiving treatment. They all went back to Papilda to get further rest and collected their rewards, though prize was all but nothing on their minds right now.

---

The girls were resting on separate beds in a single room as per Karl’s request. He felt that one of them would go hysterical if the others were not present. Right now, he was sitting on a table drinking a wine.

He felt a bit relieved that he actually agreed to come with the girls. If not, maybe something worse might happen. Now he had no complaints on the girls powers. But he was afraid of what would await them if they went further on their current path.

“What is their purpose? Where does their powers come from? Are they aware of the danger that awaits them?”

His self-questioning was interrupted by Tiana, who came and sit across of him. She wore a nightdress with mixed emotions on her face.

“Thank you for helping the girls, Mr. Zenden. Unfortunately, I don’t have enough money to pay you. So...” She tried to collect herself before continuing. “Perhaps... I can repay you with my “service” instead.”

Karl blinked a few times at her words. It was true he did ask a reward from her, since the one who requested was her. Although, he did not expect that she would go with what he had in mind before.

Karl chuckled and held her hands caringly.

“Keep it. Costa would kill me if he finds out about this. I’ll just ask the mayor to give me something else instead. I mean, I’m the one who made the Tiger Raiders disbanded.” He did take out Sasha and Kahn, so he wasn’t really leeching off.

“Hahaha, I’m sorry. You must be disappointed that I have dirty thoughts like this.” Tiana looked down, ashamed. Karl gently caressed her hand and told her.

“Eh, you are a growing girl. You have a boyfriend already, it is not weird for you to have thoughts like that. So, how far have you two gone?”

“Ah... Eh... K-Kissing...” Tiana answered in embarrassment.

“Hee, how sweet.” Karl laughed dryly. He remembered about a girl he liked once and how their relationship fell apart after a single kiss.

“You should sleep. I’ll watch the girls.”

“No. You must be tired sir.”

“I insist, Tiana. Don’t fight me.” Karl persistent telling made Tiana gave up and decided to sleep. She excused herself.

“And you look fine ready to deal with Costa later.” Tiana stopped for a bit and turned to see Karl who was waving at her with a smirking face. Her face was deep red like a tomato and she quickly went to her room.

“Haha, I teased her too much.” He poured another wine to his glass and sip it with his mind returned to his questions.

---

Vitalia woke up early. She looked around to see her sisters sleeping peacefully. She got up and wiped the sweat and the wounds from their faces. She sighed at the poor sight of them. They were the ones who always fought for her. She felt useless, but they always reminded her that she was still important.

“I can only use magic, and once I ran out of mana, I’m done.”

If only she could do something, was what going through her mind. Suddenly, a groan came out from Vittoria. Vitalia negative thoughts were shooed for the moment.

“Vi... talia?” asked Vittoria weakly.

“Yes. How are you feeling?” Instead of answering, Vittoria cried. She covered her face with her blanket as she continued to sob inside.

“Sis?”

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry for endangering us. I’m sorry.” She kept blaming herself which made Vitalia worried.

“Sis, please calm down. Valeria is resting.”

“Oh, sister. Huhuhu.”

Vitalia was hurt. Hurt by the sight of the usual prideful and confident big sister in a weak and wounded state. Across, her eldest sister were covered with bandages. She helped taking care of her due to ‘special’ circumstances. Fortunately, she was treated and simply needed a lot of rest.

“Ah, I will take some water and food for you.” Vitalia left the room and went to the kitchen.

Tiana had let Vitalia to ask everything needed for the sisters. She wanted to cook a porridge for them, but she did not know how to make one.

“What are you doing here?”

“Hai?!”

A manly voice interrupted her and she almost dropped her plate. Fortunately, the man came to the rescue.

“Careful, we don’t want to prolong the injury list.” Karl took the plate and returned it to the shelves. He crossed his arms while tapping his arms.

“Yes?”

“I was asking ‘what are you doing here’ before. So answer.”

“Oh... I wanted to cook for my sisters. Vittoria had just woken up, but Valeria was still sleeping.”

“I see. Valeria will be in a world of pain once she wakes up. Is she alright?”

“Who?”

“Vittoria.”

“Well... not exactly.” She told Karl what had happened earlier. He sighed and scratched his head.

“Haah. Vitalia, tell Tiana to call for doctor. I will cook something for them.”

“Eh? But I want to-”

“You’re helping me more with doing that. Go.” Karl stern order made Vitalia yelp for a bit. She nodded then left the kitchen. Karl clicked his tongue.

“I think I’m a bit harsh just now. Oh well, time to cook again. Let’s see.” He began to check on the ingredients and started preparing. Meanwhile, Vitalia and Tiana already called for doctor to check on Vittoria and Valeria.

“Hmm? Mr. Zenden!” Karl brought a tray with two bowls of food. He left it on the table next to Vittoria’s bed.

“Sorry to ruin your kitchen. I’ll fix it up later.” Tiana hastily shook her head.

“No no no! I was the one who should apologize! A guest shouldn’t have to cook here! It is my job.”

“Ahahaha, but you’re busy taking care of the girls. Oh yeah, there was another guest downstairs.”

“Really? Can I leave them to you for now?” Karl nodded. Tiana bowed slightly then left the room.

Karl was alone with the sisters. Vittoria was awake, but she did not want to look at Karl. Vitalia was sitting across Karl, clutching her clothes in frustration. Valeria was sleeping soundly. He wanted to know about the girls. Their motivations. Their origins. He was curious.

“Hey.” Vitalia turned towards him, but Vittoria’s back remained turned.

“Mind telling me about you guys?”

“Why?”

“Call it thanks for saving you. So, spill the beans now.” Vitalia wanted to speak, but she was interrupted by Vittoria.

“Thank you. For saving me and my sisters. If it was not because of you, we will-”

“Enough. I don’t want to hear your crying again.” He said it while looking at Vitalia. Vittoria stopped, and turned towards Karl.

“Mr. Zenden. Nobody ever asks us who we are after we told them we were just travellers. Does that no satistfy you?”

“It doesn’t. You kids are different. The power to use magic, the ability to summon and control mystical beings, and also a cold-blooded method of fighting. Who are you actually?”

He could not back down now. He wanted more answer.

“Does it matter to you?”

“Huh?”

“Does it matter if you know who we are? We have different purposes. We have different paths on our respective journey. In fact, you could have just left us after sending us back here to continue your journey.”

Karl blinked. Vittoria was correct. Why did he so interested all of a sudden? Sure he was curious, but it was not urgent for him. He remembered again about the reason he was in this town. He pulled out the envelope he was carrying then showed it to them. He urged them to read it.

Vittoria refused, so Vitalia took it. She opened it and read the contents. Her expression matched Karl two days ago.

“What do you want to do now?” Karl felt that Valeria asked it to him. He looked at the window and told her.

“I want to go home.”

Home. A place where someone belonged and a place for them to return to. Karl longed for that place. And yet he knew he had none now.

“Are you going home as well?” asked him to the girls. Vitalia looked at Vittoria; liked asking permission to answer. Vittoria nodded. Then, Vitalia answered.

“No. We are on our way to meet our mother.”

She got up and opened the window. Cold wind entered the room like a refresher.

“She was ill. Because of it, she returned to her homeland in Eastern Continent.” Karl was surprised. These girls were heading towards Eastern Continent?

“Then, you are going there?”

“Yes.” Vitalia answered firmly.

Karl shook his head in disbelief. He had heard stories of wandering adventurers, merchants, or heroes across the country. But this is something new.

“Mad. You are mad to think that you can survive until then. Just look at you.” He felt like he was being rude, but he wanted to state some facts.

“I don’t care how you guys can get this far, but the battle against Tiger Raiders was just a small amount of troubles awaiting you on the road to Eastern Continent. Savage hunters, powerful and dangerous beasts, bandits, and warring nations. Those are what you’re going to deal later.”

He continued. The two could be heard sobbing.

“You were lucky to have me yesterday. Deny all you want, but Tiana deserved credit.”

“...”

“You guys think just because you have special powers, your journey would be easy peasy?”

“Stop.”

“You think that full frontal assault against outnumbering forces will work everytime?”

“Stop.”

“Kahn is just a small example. Next time you will-”

“STOP!”

Vittoria’s shout cut Karl’s off. He felt that he had gone too far. Nevertheless, she wanted to show something to them. A fact that they were just children.

“Do you have to say that? WE KNOW THAT!” Vitalia was crying. Vittoria wiped her tears and glared at Karl.

“What are you trying to say by telling us all of that? To laugh at us? Go ahead! I don’t care.” Vittoria sniffed. She was angry. Angry at her incompatibility to protect her sisters. Her overzealous almost killed her sister. She was almost being... She didn’t want to say it.

“I won’t.”

“Eh?” Karl ruffled Vittoria’s hair then pat Vitalia’s head.

“Your mother does not want to see you again when you are already a lifeless corpse. She wants to see you all healthy and fine.”

His words touched them right on the heart and both started crying again.

“If you are seriously going to Eastern Continent, hire someone to guard you. Not just that, someone who can guide you safely and capable of taking care of children like you,” suggested Karl. He could understand how they wanted to see their mother again. Just like him. He felt like impossible to send them back home, so he could only say that. He got up and headed for the door.

“Wait!” Vittoria called him loudly. He stopped then looked over his shoulder. Vittoria slowly got up from the bed with the assistance of Vitalia. Then, without warning, she prostrated herself.

“Please, help us to see our mother again!”

Karl was taken aback. He wanted to deny and told her other people who were capable, until he realized they were on the other side of the world now. Vitalia also joined her sister prostrating.

“Please. You already proved yourself capable sir.”

“E...”

“Please...”

“Sister!”

Valeria tried her best to pull herself up and begged. Unfortunately, her body cried enough.

“Sister is also begging you. I will pay! He-Here!” Vittoria pulled out a box from her belongings, which contained a diamond inside.

“This was our mother’s last gift before she went home. We wanted to return it to her once we meet. But, if this is enough to ask for your aid, I will give it. I am sorry sisters!”

Vittoria’s payment was not something that interested Karl, but her determination to give everything as long as she could see her mother again amazed him. Karl realized how much they missed their mother. He felt that he might do the same had he been in their position. He rubbed his chin a few times before taking the diamond.

“This diamond as the payment?”

“Yes. We can give you money too but-”

“Deal.”

“Huh?”

“We have a deal. You can keep this for now. I’ll be taking it once we are done. Sounds good?”

“Oh... Oooh...” Tears welled up in the sisters eyes’. Karl continued.

“Rest for now. I’ll buy supplies for the next journey. We are going on a detour. And remember one thing.” He turned to leave before stopping.

“I won’t be there every time to watch over you. So, I will teach you later on how to master your skills properly as we journeyed. Understood?”

The three nods at the same time. He smiled then left the room. Outside, he laid his back on the wall while looking back on the envelope, only to realize he still left it inside.

“No matter. I guess I find something I want to do now. Nora, Martha, Mother, I’ll see you another time.” He walked to his room and picked up his weapon.

“Let’s go wild again, partner.”