It was a calm day , like any other , sun was shining bright and the sky was clear , even the

  gloomiest of people would feel like smiling that day.

  The river was running down it’s current , fishes splashing around as they make their way

  down as someone watches them.

  But the fishes paid no mind to the white haired girl , watching them with her crystal blue

  eyes , they have seen many foxes before so this one did not unnerve them , and besides they

  had to move down the stream , it’s only nature running its course.

  Suddenly a mature voice called out from the forest surrounding the river.

  -Lori dear , come back here , it’s dangerous to stay here on your own.

  The girl wasted no time standing up and running to the person that called her.

  -Sorry mother… I just wanted to see the emerald fishes , they look so majestic when

  they jump out of the water

  The taller woman sharing the same white hair and blue eyes chuckled , the armor plates that

  were embedded into her clothes clinged as she moved her hand to cover her face. After a

  moment she smiled at the girl and kneeled to be face to face with her.

  -Oh Lori , Im glad you can enjoy simple nature , but remember what I taught you ,

  going off on your own is dangerous , there are many scary things in this forest.

  The girl’s expression become a bit saddenend , but hastly switched to a smile.

  -Im not afraid! Besides , Im sure you would be there to protect me mom , like you

  protect everyone else at the village!

  The woman smiled and hugged the girl.

  -Lori… Im happy you belive in me so much , but remember , it never hurts to be

  carefull , now come , let’s go back to the village.

  The girl nodded as they both made their way into the forest, in mere minutes they arrived at

  the aforementioned village , deeming with life as many other fox-folk lived within it.

  As they entered the village many faces greeted them with warm smiles , some waved , it was

  a peaceful place , everyone knew each other , and everyone certainly knew the woman and

  her daughter , for she was the protector of the village , a warrior that did not let their village

  fall many times before and surely would protect it from anything.

  They both made their way to their house.

  -Lori , Im going to hunt, please stay at the village now , I will just go grab my sword.

  The girl sighed

  -Okay mom, I promise I will just stay here this time…

  The woman smiled and entered the house , as soon as her figure dissapeard in the doors

  another figure approached the girl from behind.

  -What you doing Lori?

  The girl jumped out of surprise , and quickly turned around

  -Zella? Why did you sneak on me like that?!

  The black haired girl laughed before giving any answer

  -You should have seen the look on your face! Besides shouldn’t you be more carefull

  and you know, always on your guard , like your mom?

  Lori seemed to take that personally as anger appeared on her face

  -I am! I am always on guard and carefull! You were just lucky!

  Before they could speak anymore the Woman returned from the house

  -Girls please , stop fighting each other! Zella please go to your parents.

  Zella look the other way

  -Gee, I just wanted to talk some , but Lori has to be Lori and start a fight- Said the

  black haired girl while walking away

  -Lori.-Said the woman

  -Please do not act like that , everybody can make mistakes , don’t act like you don’t.

  The girl’s gaze falls to the floor.

  -Sorry mom, I just lost my cool again , it won’t happen again.

  The woman lifter her head up

  -Oh it’s okay dear , and cheer up , I shall hunt us all some deer to eat , or maybe even

  a mountain boar , this night we will have a great meal.

  The girl’s eyes sparkled with light

  -Mountain boar? Those are my favorite!

  -I know silly , that’s why im going to look for them ,but I do think I could use some

  help…and since you were so eager to go out …maybe you could help me?

  The girl was surprised , her eyes shining with enthusiasm.

  -Yes! I will gladly help!

  The woman smiled and petted her on the head

  -That’s my Lori , okay then… let’s head out , and rest assured , we will be eating

  Mountain boar steak tonight.

  And so both of them went off , to the forest , to hunt for food.

  As they made their way through the forest path Lori could barely hold her excitement , she

  loved helping her mother , and wanted to learn how to be a warrior like her , this was a great

  occasion to learn some new things.

  As they went deeper into the forest the sun hid itself behind the green crowns of giant trees.

  But enough of the light was shining through for them to see their path , and besides these

  are keen foxes , with keen eyesights , no night is scary for them.

  As Lori was looking around , enjoying the forest , her little eyes stumbled upon an

  uncommon sight.

  -Mom…You should look at this…

  The Woman turned around to see what was the commotion , and saw the same thing as

  Lori , a part of the forest that had a path…But what was the unnatural thing was the havoc

  around it , trees destroyed , some even burned , and on top of all that , a foul smell of

  blood ,both of the foxes could smell it , and both could sigh in comfort knowing it’s not fresh.

  Lori and her mother got closer to examine the place , and the first thing they checked were

  the tracks on the path.

  -Mom…those are pretty big , and deep…Whatever that thing was it must have been

  heavy…

  -Good observation Lori, yes it must have been , and it must have been strong aswell ,

  those trees are quite thick , destroying them like that is no easy feat…You should go

  back…this might be dangerous.

  -What? No! I want to help you! Im old enough to do that! I won’t slow you down and

  I can handle myself!

  -Lori this might be serious you should really…-Before she could finish Lori cut her off

  -I will be fine mom , how can I learn anything if you always tell me to go back when

  anything happens?

  -Lori…You are right in a way I shall give you that…Very well… But if anything ,

  ANYTHING goes wrong you will run to the village and not look back , okay? –Said the

  woman with a stern look.

  -Okay…

  And so they continued down their path , until suddenly the woman stopped Lori and pointed

  forward, what Lori saw was just the thing she was hoping for…A mountain boar! Right on

  their path , feeding on some mushrooms, it had not noticed them , and In fact wasn’t even

  facing their way.

  -So mom , how do we do this?- said Lori quietly so the boar would not hear them.

  -Stay here and observe Lori.-Said the woman before starting to sneak closer to the

  boar.

  She was silent and fast , the distance was closed In mere seconds , the boar didn’t even have

  time to react as a sword pierced it’s head , killing it instantly.

  The woman turned back to Lori

  -Remember Lori , no hesitation , be quick and effective , and be sure of your

  strikes. – Said the woman with a smile on her face.

  Lori could only watch in amazement , only one thing in her head , ofcourse , aside from the

  hunger for the boar’s meat, the tought that filled her head was “Mom is sooo cool!”

  -Okay , now time to get it back into the village , I will carry it , can you lead the way

  Lori?

  Lori snapped out of her trans and quickly spoke

  -Ah, Yes , ofcourse I can!

  -Good , lead the way then.- Said the woman before lifting up the boar’s body , it was

  larger than her , but despite her looks strength wasn’t something she was lacking.

  After around half an hour they returned , Lori happily leading the way with a smile on her

  face , glad she could accompany her mom on the hunt ,the villagers that saw the boar

  quickly cheered.

  -That’s our warrior! Always bringing the best food there is! And ofcourse with her

  diligent hard working daughter to help!- Said one of the villagers with a smile.

  -Yeah! We are lucky to have such a family in our tribe , I can’t imagine life without

  them- Said another villager laughing.

  Soon they all gathered to take the boar from Lori’s mother , and prepare the meal , the sun

  was slowly setting down and night grew closer.

  The villagers were quick to prepare a fire and make sure the boar’s body Is ready to cook ,

  the whole village gathered in the center to enjoy the meal, there wasn’t that many of them ,

  the village wasn’t that large , it’s population about 60 , Lori was among them , enjoying her

  part , It wasn’t large or anything , but for her it was still the best thing ever , she loved every

  bite. However her meal would soon be interrupted as someone sat next to her , and who

  else than Zella.

  -Hi Lori! How was the hunt? – Asked Zella with a smile.

  -It was great! Mom was so cool and swift and professional and and…Wait… what do

  you want? –Said Lori with a slightly annoyed face

  -Want? , I just wanted to ask how it went , no need to get so suspicious of a simple

  act! – spoke Zelle trying to keep her smile.

  -Oh…sorry…and umm…Sorry for earlier too…I kinda lost my cool. – Said Lori while

  looking the other way.

  -It’s okay! We are friends after all! – said Zelle smiling even wider

  -yeah…-Said Lori but before she could add anything else a voice cut her off

  -Hey Zelle! , stop bothering Lori! Can’t you respect the daughter of our hero?

  Honestly wherever you go you bring trouble…-Said one of the villagers upon spoting

  Zelle , and as she spoke many voices agreed in unity.

  Zelle’s smile was gone , she looked down on the ground and stood up.

  -Sorry Lori…

  Said Zelle before running off.

  Lori was surprised and annoyed by what happen , she didn’t want Zelle to feel bad , but she

  couldn’t even talk back to the villager as she turned back to the campfire.

  Lori didn’t want to just sit there so she quickly finished her meal and went to look for Zelle,

  and she found her , behind of the houses , crying.

  -Zelle …hey…I…that woman was wrong! You didn’t bother me at all!- Said Lori clearly

  not knowing how to handle this situation.

  -Lori…it’s okay, It’s just…nevermind…- Said Zelle still visibly crying.

  -it’s just what? Tell me , we are friends after all right?

  -So you do think so? – asked Zelle surprised.

  -Ofcourse! You might annoy me at times but that’s fine! We are still friends and

  should help each other so tell me what’s wrong. – said Lori with certainty.

  - Well…if you truly mean that…I just…well…

  Zelle clears her tears and takes a deep breath.

  -It’s just that whenever I try to help , whenever I try to make a friend something

  happens , last time when I was trying to talk to some other girl I tripped and broke a

  window…and people noticed that , they don’t want me around , call me a trouble

  maker… you and your mom are the only people here that are truly nice to me. – said

  Zelle clearly holding her tears.

  -Zelle… as your friend I promise , I will protect you! , if someone calls you out again or

  anything like that just let me know , okay? I will help –Said Lori while smiling.

  -Thanks…really…I feel better now…you are a hero after all…just like your mom. –Said

  Zelle before realizing something.

  -You want to be like your mom , right? – Asked Zelle

  -Well yes , naturally , but it’s just very …difficult. – Said Lori.

  - Well I always wanted to be like her too , I even trained , but In the end it didn’t

  mean much , here let me show you how little I achived…

  Zelle extended her hand , and after a moment of visible focus a small sparkle of blue

  flame appeared in her palm.

  -I can barely even maintain my own fox flame….- Said Zelle with a sad tone.

  -Zelle…that’s still amazing! So far aside from me and my mom you are the only

  person in the village who can even produce any , I always tought it was unique

  to just me and mother… you are incredible , remember that. And besides , I

  bet if I tell mom about this she will be willing to help you train! Like she

  helped me – Said Lori with honesty , before producing her own fox flame ,

  hers however was a large flame that took her entire palm.

  -See? You will be able to do it like that in no time!

  -Really? Well thank you…a lot…really…- Said Zelle while smiling slightly.

  -You know what Lori…I have something for you.

  -Zelle , you don’t need to give me any…- Before Lori could finish Zelle

  presented her with her necklaces , it was golden with a red gem in the middle.

  -I got it from my mom before she…well you know ..anyway … It was said to

  bring luck and save lives, but clearly it does not work for me , so maybe it will

  work for you , please take it.

  -Zelle , I can’t accept this I…- she was cut off again.

  -Please as a sign of our friendship , besides I still have my mom’s bracelet , it’s

  said to increase my strength! But I don’t think it actually works…

  Lori knew there was no point in arguing and accepted the gift.

  -Thank you Zelle , I do hope it will bring me great luck…

  Zelle smiled.

  Soon they both noticed the feast was over , and decided it was time for them to go back to

  their houses and sleep , because no one know what tomorrow holds.

  Lori woke up like every other day , taking her time , preparing her hair and eating some

  vegetables for breakfast , her mom made them for her before going out on a scouting

  mission.

  This day was nothing special, Lori walked around the village , sometimes having a small chat

  with villagers , Zelle was nowhere to be seen however , but she didn’t think much of it.

  Later Lori visited the river again , even If her mother said it could be dangerous she was sure

  she could handle herself , however she didn’t stay there long as there were no fishes this

  time.

  Time passed quickly , her mother returned and trained with her for a few hours.

  -Are you ready Lori?

  -Yeah ,I am.

  -Good, then follow my moves and do as I say.

  The woman begin practicing with her sword , displaying complete focus to each strike , Lori

  tried to follow but her mind was clouded , her mother noticed that.

  -What is wrong Lori? Something on your mind? You seem off today.

  -Mom , can any of us learn how to use fox fire?

  -Well that’s an interesting question , in theory yes , but for those not of our bloodline

  it would be an immense challenge to even call upon a flicker. , why do you ask?

  -Well, umm…I was just curious.

  Lori decided not to tell her mom about Zelle’s training just yet , she wanted Zelle to be with

  her so she could show her work herself.

  -Okay then…Let’s continue our training , and no more distractions this time Lori.

  -Yes yes ofcourse.

  They went on with their training , going from sword training to practicing the use of fox

  flame.

  -Remember Lori , you must focus , the strength and size of the flame will match your

  will. Fox flame represents your soul and spirit , it’s very important to learn how to be

  proficient with it.

  -I know mom , I know…

  Lori could summon a flame the size of her palm but not much else for now , she was still long

  way from her mom.

  Time passed quickly and it was already getting late , they completed their training for the

  day , and Lori’s mother prepared to go to hunt again.

  -Mom , can I go with you again?

  -Lori…sorry not this time… I found more tracks when scouting , this is really

  dangerous , but I have a different task for you…

  Lori’s ears perked up , she was listening.

  -Well whatever left those tracks can be very dangerous so… Lori if I don’t come

  back…If something happens…Tell everyone … evacuate them out of here okay?

  The girl was shocked but gathered her cool quickly

  -It’s gonna be okay mom! You can handle this…but If anything happens I will do what

  I can!

  The woman smiled and petted her on the head.

  -I hope so. – The woman said slowly moving towards the forest.

  -Be carefull mom….-Said the girl to herself , trying not to think that anything bad can

  happen.

  Soon after her mother Left Lori decided to go take a nap , her training did tire her a bit.

  A few hours later she woke up , it was already after dusk , night was clear , and her mother

  should soon return , so with enthusiasm she woke up and went outside.

  To her surprise people were gathered in the middle of the village , she went to ask why is

  everyone here but found Zella stopping her.

  -Hey did you hear that? – Zella asked with a bit of worry in her voice.

  -Heard what? – Lori asked surprised.

  -There was a loud roar heard across the forest , then another one…and

  then…something else roared…That last one was terryfing…To think that it didn’t

  wake you up…

  But Lori wasn’t listening to Zella anymore , her senses were overtaken by worry as soon as

  she heard about the roars…”Is mom okay?” was all that she could think about, and Zella

  noticed something was wrong.

  -Hey , don’t worry, your Mom can handle anything! I heard rumors she even took out

  an Oni when she was younger!

  Lori did her best to remain calm

  -Yeah you are right…Mom would never…Never lose… to anyone…

  But the little fox knew nothing of what was to befall.

  Suddenly some of the villagers screamed , Both Lori and Zella turned around , and what they

  saw terrified both of them to the bone.

  Lori’s Mother came back…but…she was anything but okay.

  She was bleeding heavily , could barely walk , and one of her arms was straight up missing ,

  the other was still holding her blade.

  Lori rushed to her mother , but before she could even reach her the woman yelled

  -EVERYONE RUN, GET OUF OF HERE!

  She feel to her knees exhausted.

  -Oni’s…there are…

  Before she could finish her sentence something shot from the forest , It was too late… it

  followed her track.

  The enitity stopped before everyone , it was large and muscular with a singular horn on it’s

  head , it towered over the fox-folk holding it’s halberd dripped in blood and was laughing.

  -So much…food.

  The villagers were stunned in fear , Lori knew what that thing was , her mother told her

  about those. It was an Oni , a demon of pure power , nothing can match their brute

  strength , but her mother could take on an Oni , so how…And then it struck her…What her

  mother was trying to say…there must be…

  Before she could even finish that tought a loud crack was heard , she turned around and saw

  some of the villagers that tried to run…or at least what was left of them.

  Another Oni has flanked them , there were two of them.

  Lori was terrified , she just saw the villagers get crushed by the other Oni’s hammer , and the

  only person that could fight …her mother…she…

  Suddenly a scream snapped her back to reality , as Lori turned back to the front she saw the

  horror , her mother tried to attack the Oni again but was grabbed by it. However she was not

  dead yet.

  -LORI!- she screamed – RUN , GET OUT OF HERE! YOU MUST RU…

  Then Lori heard what would be the worst sound she ever had to witness…Her mother’s voice

  cut by a crunch… She look in horror as the Oni bit into her mother’s upper body , she saw her

  remaining arm swing the sword hoplessly until it lost it’s strength , the Oni threw the rest of

  her body away. Her sword landed right behind Lori , she couldn’t even move , and couldn’t

  hear as the other Oni started devouring and smashing the other villagers. The villagers that

  tried hiding in their houses , only for them to be destroyed by the smaller Oni with the

  hammer.

  Meanwhile the larger one after killing her mother started walking towards Lori , but she

  couldn’t move…all that happen has left her broken.

  The Oni approached laughing.

  -Was she your family? I wonder…do you also taste that good?

  The Oni extended his arm to grab her but suddenly , something black sneaked through and

  pushed her out of his hand. It was Zella.

  -LORI MOVE! –She screamed.

  Lori finally snapped out of it , she fought through the terror , for her friend , she grabbed her

  mother’s blade and begin to run away with Zella , the Oni just laughed.

  While running Lori and Zella could see the other Oni devour and kill the other villagers ,

  despite their pleads for mercy and screams…screams silenced by crunches and splats. But

  the Oni didn’t stop there , he used fire magic to burn their houses and sometimes even

  people inside.

  But they kept running , hoping to get away , but Lori realized she does not see Zella

  anymore , her heart stopped as she looked back. She saw Zella , impaled on the Oni’s

  halberd , she was still alive , but clearly in pain. Lori froze again.

  She could only watch as the Oni lifted up Zella as she screamed.

  -NO! LET ME GO! DON’T EAT ME!

  She saw tears run down Zella’s face , Lori closed her eyes , and heard that sound

  again…Crunch…Zella’s screams went silent.

  Loshi began to cry herself , the screams of the villagers were also gone. She knew it was over

  as the Oni approached her , while the other one went behind her , she clinged onto her

  mother’s sword.

  -Hey brother , the white one looked good , this her family right?- said the smaller Oni

  -Indeed Brother , we can share this one , half for you and half for me. – Said the

  larger Oni

  -Oh yeah , I want her head! – barked the smaller one

  Lori could just sit there , she just wanted this nightmare to end , she just wanted to wake

  up , but this wasn’t a nightmare , it was her last day, the larger Oni extended his hand to

  grab her again , Then he froze.

  Everything went silent , the flames stopped making any sounds as if they were never there ,

  there was no wind , Lori could hear her own heart beat.

  Suddenly both the Oni’s and Lori felt it… A presence…

  Something else was there , The oni’s chose to ignore the girl as she was no threat to them ,

  and they both looked behind to see what is this presence , only to find a pair of Red eyes

  staring at them , The Oni’s were Old and knew many battles and foes , but never before in

  their lifes have they felt this…they felt…true fear.

  They couldn’t understand it , they shouldn’t be afraid of a creature just like that…they

  wouldn’t even fear a dragon like that and yet…they are afraid.

  This. Isn’t. Right.

  The larger Oni finally managed to form a sentence.

  -Who…What are you? The hell do you want?

  The creature’s gaze shifted, it was now looking directly at the Oni , but it spoke no

  words…yet.

  -Do not ignore me you thing! Speak or I will devour you aswell!

  The Oni was furious that anything could ignore him , but in his heart he still felt the unease

  the creature brought with it’s presence.

  Then finally , the creature spoke , the Oni’s legs nearly went limp as they saw it’s teeth ,

  sharp as swords , and heard it’s raspy heavy voice.

  -Why? All this slaughter, all this pain…why did you do it?

  The oni was surprised by the question , and felt quite amused.

  -Why? Oh it’s all just nature, the strong devour the weak , indeed, it was only nature

  running it’s course.

  The other Oni chuckled.

  -Yeah , yeah! Weak ones are food , if they can’t save themselves then they might

  aswell die!

  The creature’s gaze shifted again , looking around the village.

  Lori had no idea what was truly happening , she felt such fear and dread she couldn’t even

  move.

  The creature finally drew it’s gaze back onto the Oni’s , then finally stepped out of the

  shadow.

  The Oni’s froze as what they saw was a being as large as them , sporting 7 horns all around

  it’s head , it’s arms long and strong with claws on each finger , it’s legs heavy and large to

  support it’s weight. And it’s body covered in thick black carapace armor.

  It’s red eyes piercing through them.

  -Only nature you say…? Those weak do not deserve life? Maybe you are right…

  The creature begun to laugh , the Oni’s felt immense unease at the whole situation , but his

  sudden agreement made them laugh a bit aswell , trying to ease the situation.

  Then the creature suddenly stopped laughing.

  -I find it funny , for you see… following your logic , from my perspective , you both do

  not deserve life. And you know what? I think for just this night , I will follow that logic.

  The creature step forward with a loud thud. A battle was about to begin. With Lori right in

  between.

  The Oni’s took a defensive stance , unsure of what their opponent could do.

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  The creature rushed at them with immense speed ,they were caught off guard, they had not

  expected something so heavy to be that fast.

  The larger Oni brother lifted his hands to block , but was too slow , a powerfull strike sent

  him off his feet , and flying back towards the ruined buildings.

  The smaller Oni was visibly shocked , however he quickly gathered himself and went to

  attack the creature , swinging his hammer at it with great power , only for it to be caught

  and stopped mid attack. He looked in feared as a large hand grabbed his face and swung him

  like paper. He went flying back into the forest and struck a tree on his way , it was pure luck

  that his hammer that the creature thrown after him didn’t crush his head.

  Lori was still there , now right in front of the creature , but her fear was too weak to stop her

  most primal instinct now , she grabbed her sword and made a run for it in terror.

  The creature turned it’s head after her but did not gave chase , as suddenly it was struck

  from behind with immense power , the strike was strong enough it even sent Lori to the

  ground despite the distance she built already.

  It stumbled forward but did not fall , it turned around in anger to face the larger Oni again ,

  but before it could strike him back , another hit from behind , while weaker still powerfull

  enough to make it stumble , the smaller Oni wasn’t done just yet.

  Then as it stumbled forward the Larger Oni struck it back to it’s brother , and said brother

  wasted no time to do the same.

  The creature was taking hit after hit , getting staggered from brother to brother.

  Meanwhile Lori reached some ruins and decided to hide behind them , she look back and

  saw the scene.

  This battle was not fair , the creature was outnumbered by opponents that knew how to

  cooperate.

  And she was correct , the fight was not fair from the start , it was just the reason she got

  wrong.

  Suddenly and swiftly the creature regained balance , as the smaller Oni tried to hit it again to

  push it to it’s brother , it was struck, the punch had so much power it broke a few ribs and

  sent the Oni flying back , with blood in his mouth.

  The larger Oni was shocked but decided to continue the assault , Only to be struck by

  nothing else than his brother’s hammer. The creature grabbed it after hitting the smaller

  Oni.

  The hit had so much power it shattered the Oni’s arm. It screamed in pain as the creature

  lifted the hammer to strike at his head.

  Then suddenly it was thrown back dropping the hammer, as the smaller Oni dashed into it

  full force , the creature however was quick to recover and was back on it’s feet withing a

  second.

  The smaller Oni only glanced at it’s brother condition , this was a tough fight for them.

  That …”thing”…was a monster.

  They didn’t have much time to think as the creature charged at them , the smaller Oni

  decided to stand in front and try to protect his wounded brother.

  He picked up his hammer and took a defensive stance , the creature got close and the Oni

  attacked , his mighty swing echoing across the whole village , followed by a loud crack ,but

  the crack was not originated from the creature’s body , but his hammer , it shattered upon

  meeting the creature’s fist. The Oni was completely terrified , and was suddenly struck by

  the creature , having his jaw dislocated and being launched back.

  His brother saw everything and with his remaining hand grasped it’s halberd before striking

  it at the creature.

  His Halberd was however stopped mid strike as the creature grabbed it , and snapped it in

  half.

  Before he could even see what happened the Oni’s lower jaw was struck and he went flying

  back just as his brother , his teeth shattered.

  As he landed in immense pain he quickly looked up to see if the creature was going to

  continue the assault but to his surprise , he did not see it.

  Then in struck him as he looked further up , seeing the creature in the air , it jumped after

  him , and quickly landed , stomping on his remaining hand, crushing it.

  Then as the Oni roared in pain the creature kicked it ,with enormous force , it’s ribs

  shattered and their pieces pierced his lungs as he was once again sent flying.

  Flying right to Lori’s hiding spot , his breath getting heavier and more painfull.

  The creature then swapped it’s attention to the smaller Oni as it was just getting up in pain.

  The smaller Oni knew it was too slow to get away and was overtaken by fear after it’s

  hammer was shattered, but he knew there was no other way , so he tried to face the

  creature once again , despite his fear.

  He could only dodge however , as the creature’s relentless assault and his fear combined

  made sure he had no opportunity to counter attack. “That thing isn’t even tierd” he tought

  to himself.

  Meanwhile Lori saw the larger Oni lying near her, at first overtaken by fear, but then she

  realized in what state her previous oppressor is.

  Her fear turned into angst , she felt the sword in her hands turn heavier and heavier.

  She went out of hiding and rushed to the Oni , it saw her and was surprised , but could not

  react in any way due to his injuries.

  It could only watch as that weak feeble creature climbed on top of him and gave him a look

  of pure malice.

  Lori had only one thing in mind , revenge. This monster took away her family , her friend, she

  wasn’t going to let it slip away and survive.

  With a scream of rage Lori lifted her blade and pierced the Oni’s chest with it , no hesitation ,

  striking it’s heart.

  She looked into the Oni’s eyes as life begun escaping them , saying only one thing…

  -It’s only Nature running it’s course…

  The Oni was dead.

  And the smaller Oni felt it , and that feeling was enough to make him slower. Suddenly the

  creatures strike connected and sent him flying back again. He could barely stand now and

  tried crawling away , then had one more idea.

  The oni was there on the ground as the creature approached , then suddenly it spun

  around , and in a flash of light the creature was covered in flame , as the Oni laughed.

  -L..leth’s shee how you handlle shome…shome fire magic.

  To his utter despair the answer was pretty well , as the creature took a deep breath , and it’s

  body absorbed all the flames , the Oni watched in horror as his enemy’s body begun to glow

  brighter , the creature opened It’s jaw and there a ball of light formed , gathering the heat

  from all across the creature’s body , then in one quick swoop , a beam of light went out of

  it’s mouth , followed by a deafening sound and a wave of heat. The Oni was struck directly ,

  and it’s body was nearly completely evaporated.

  The creature then dropped to it’s knees.

  Lori heard the commotion , and it was enough for her to go back to hiding.

  She hid in the hole again and peaked out to look at the creature , it seemed to be at ease,

  but after a moment it suddenly twisted it’s head towards the forest , Lori didn’t hear

  anything for a while , but the she understood why it did that as she heard something heavy

  running towards the village , breaking the trees and not slowing down at all.

  The suddenly another Oni bursted out of the forest.

  It was larger than these ones and had two horns instead of one.

  It looked around the destroyed village until it’s gaze finally reached the remains of its

  brothers , but instead of Rage the creature anticipated there is just sorrow.

  -MY ADORABLE LITTLE BROTHERS!- Yelled the Oni in despair.

  The Oni crumbled onto its knees , crying and screaming in agony and sorrow After the loss of

  its brothers, much to the creature's surprise

  "The hell is up with this guy?" The creature tought to itself.

  The Oni’s cries went on and on…

  -All the talks we had , all the villages we destroyed , all the people we killed , and

  now…they are dead! I will never be able to speak with them again! No more campfire

  stories! No more jokes! This is terrible…oh so terrible…

  The creature was both confused and somewhat uncomfortable with the situation.

  The oni was sobbing louder and louder , then suddenly…the crying stopped.

  "You....wierd creature…YOU!...Its your doing isn't it!? Its because of you my little Brothers

  are gone! You will pay for it with your life! Oh indeed , I will make sure You will pay ten fold

  for what you have done! No mercy! I will devour your body , I will kill your family , I will kill

  all your friends , I will make sure you suffer greatly , yes I will…"

  The creature looks at him with disgust and confusion, before stopping his monologue.

  "Are you fucking done already?"

  The Oni then stopped mid sentence furious.

  -How dare you! Have you no shame? What even are you anyway? Forget that , it

  does not matter what you are , for soon you will be a corpse!

  The creature has had enough of this nonsense , it grabbed a piece of rubble and hurled it at

  the Oni, while it didn’t do much damage it sure annoyed the horned demon.

  -Rubble? Who do you take me fo…

  The oni could not muster another word as he saw the creature’s gaze stare into him , he

  finally understood what stood before him..

  -By the gods…you are a Kaijan…

  The Oni’s whole temper shifted , it got more serious and was not going to let fear overtake

  it, it pulled out it’s spiked mace and prepared for battle.

  -This time…I will not fail…-Said the Oni , charging at the creature and trying to strike

  it.

  The creature was ready for that , it grabbed the Oni’s weapon , and even when the spikes

  pierced it’s skin and drew blood it did not let go , instead it started striking the Oni right in

  it’s guts with his free hand, but the Oni wasn’t going to go down that easily.

  After the third strike the Oni let go of the weapon and slammed it’s hands onto the

  creature , then it quickly grabbed it’s weapon again as the creature staggered from the hit.

  The Oni did not hesitate for even a moment , striking the creature with his mace right in it’s

  horns , one of them snapped it half.

  The creature roared in pain as a puff of smoke escaped it’s body.

  -That’s right , I know of your kind , and I know how to deal with you…-Said the Oni

  with a smug face.

  The creature did not like that one bit , as it clenched it’s teeth , and headbutted the Oni ,

  making it stumble back.

  The Oni was completely livid.

  But before he could do anything about it the creature struck him again , he felt a great deal

  of pain as the attack struck his chest.

  However , he was one step ahead , as he lifted his mace once again striking the creature’s

  head one more time , and damaging another horn.

  The creature stumbled back in pain.

  This time the oni did not wait or speak , it charged at the creature leaving it no time to

  recover , and striking it again , and again.

  The creature was being pushed back , but it was not going to give in , as it grabbed another

  piece of rubble and throwed it at the Oni , blinding him for a moment , but that moment was

  enough to get a hit back at the Oni.

  The Oni was struck right in the face as a few of it’s teeth flew out of his jaw.

  The creature then fell to it’s knees , smoke coming out of It’s body.

  The Oni’s plan worked…

  The Oni stood up and begun approaching the creature , he wasted no time and landed a

  powerfull overhead slam with his mace on the creature’s shoulder , shattering the carapace

  armor and causing serious bleeding with the spikes.

  The creature roared in pain.

  -Not so tough when someone breaks your horns huh? Besides you ain’t that strong

  for a kaijan.

  The Oni lifted his mace once again , ready to finish the creature off.

  Lori bare witness to the whole thing , she was terrified.

  But in her heart she knew…no…she FELT… she cannot just watch this time.

  She wasn’t going to let another life be taken by these monsters.

  She held onto her sword and ran out of her hiding spot full speed , towards the Oni that

  luckily had it’s back to her.

  The creature’s strike must have left a ringing in his ears as the Oni did not hear her

  approach.

  Lori remembered her mother’s words…

  “Never hesitate”

  She threw away all fear and concern as she got close to the Oni , and cut the back of it’s leg

  with her blade , leaving a large open wound and making the Oni lose balance.

  The Oni screamed in agony and turned around…

  -What the? You little….

  The Oni then gasped , it felt immense pain in it’s chest.

  As it looked down it saw the creature’s clawed hand , it had pierced his chest and struck his

  heart.

  -You…I…This wasn’t…suppose to end like this…how could…

  The oni dropped to it’s knees , slowly losing strength.

  -If it wasn’t for that pesky rat…this battle would have…been different…I would have

  won… you would have…

  The creature was furious.

  -Enough of your rambling- It yelled before pulling out it’s hand and striking the Oni’s

  neck , finishing it and silencing it for good.

  -Besides…I know…

  The creature stood there , breathing heavily.

  At the same time Lori made a run for the ruins again however she wasn’t carefull enough

  and tripped on a rock, she did get up quickly , but her fall alerted the creature that now

  turned her way.

  She could feel it’s gaze on her back but she did not stop for even a moment , until she was

  back in a small hole within the ruins.

  She knew this wasn’t enough to protect her , but at this point , nothing could.

  She curled into a ball and begun sobbing quietly this whole ordeal was too much for her,

  then she heard the creature’s steps get closer and closer.

  Then they stopped , right in front of her little hole.

  She closed her eyes expecting the worst , yet nothing happened.

  And then she heard the creature’s voice again.

  -I know you are in there little one , come out.

  She did not dare to answer , fear has overtaken her again , she couldn’t even budge.

  -I understand your fear , but know this… I have no intention of hurting you.

  The words barely reached her , she was in too much shock as she continued to sob and clung

  to her mother’s sword.

  -Fine , have it your way little one, stay there and cry it all out , I will be outside once

  you get back to your senses.

  The creature sat next to the ruins with a loud thud, it saw the Larger Oni’s body on it’s way

  there , and knew who finished it off.

  The night was still young , and still dangerous. The smell of blood interested many corpse

  eaters , and Lori could hear them circling the village from her little hole , but none of them

  dared to get into the village. “Is it because of that creature?” she tought to herself.

  But she had no intention of leaving her hole to find out , and besides the whole ordeal got

  back to her , she felt exhausted and quickly fell asleep in her hole.

  The night was cold , but despite the best efforts of her nightmares Lori managed to sleep

  through it.

  She woke up early in the morning and at first hoped she would wake up in her bed , and that

  it was all just bad dream , but the cold ground and foul smell of death snapped her back into

  reality.

  It all really happened.

  She didn’t know what to do , she was alone , and most importantly , hungry and thirsty.

  She was afraid of the creature , “what if it is still there?” she tought to herself.

  But her stomach left her no choice but to fight that fear.

  After a while she finally peaked her head out of her little hole , and her expression went

  from terror to delight , she saw the creature still there , but it appears to be sleeping.

  This was her chance and she did not want to waste it.

  Quickly and quietly she snuck out of her hole and begun to move towards the river , at first

  trying to stay quiet but once she got a decent distance away she made a run towards the

  river.

  She ran through the forest with great speed , calm , as she did not hear anything give chase

  after her.

  She crouched next to the river and drank from it.

  “That’s thirst out of the way” she tought to herself.

  Then she took a close look to the river , hoping to see any fishes to catch , but what she saw

  froze her heart.

  In the water reflection , she could see the creature watching her from the forest.

  At first she did not show her fear and acted like she saw nothing , she stood up , and then

  suddenly started running along the river.

  She could not hear if the creature was following her , for the only sound she could hear was

  her own heartbeat.

  She wasn’t even paying attention to what was in front of her as she turned her head to see if

  she was being followed, a fatal mistake.

  Suddenly she felt her legs lose ground underneath , as she realized what happened it was

  already too late , for she failed to notice a cliff.

  The fall would have been painfull , maybe even fatal , however to her surprise she felt

  something grab her and pull her back.

  She landed back on the ground , at first confused, but a quick glance revealed who had saved

  her.

  It was the creature , as it was now staring at her.

  But something was different about it….

  It was smaller…and it’s eyes were no longer glowing red , but rather , just had a redish tint to

  them.

  Still she couldn’t mutter a word as fear overrun her whole being, she clinged to her mother’s

  blade and closed her eyes.

  She was like this for what felt like an eternity , but then…her nose picked up a smell…a smell

  that awoke the most primal of instincts , and instinct that could overcome fear…Hunger.

  For the smell that struck her nose was that of meat , mountain boar meat.

  She completely forgot what situation she was in , as she lunged for the piece of meat in front

  of her and immediately begun eating it.

  It was only after a few bites that she remembered where she was and what just happened.

  Then she looked up to see where the meat was from.

  And to her utter surprise the meat was gifted to her from the same clawed hand she feared

  just mere moments ago.

  “Did that just…give me food?” she wondered , but just then she heard that voice again.

  -You were hungry , were you not? I hope you can eat raw meat. But you do look like a

  carnivore…

  She could not feel any ill will from the creature’s voice , and her mind started to wander…

  “Why was I afraid of it?”

  Meanwhile the creature just stood there , watching her…until suddenly it spoke again.

  -I do not know if you can understand me…but if you do…Thanks for the help in that

  fight…and please …there is no need to fear me little one , For I do not wish to harm

  you.

  Lori stared him down with suspicion.

  -I…I can understand you…Do you truly mean it?...the things you just said? –She asked

  still unsure of her safety.

  The creature looks surprised and raises a brow.

  -Now that’s a start , well yes , I do mean those things , you might have saved my life

  back there after all , and I truly have no intention of harming you , I haven’t done

  anything bad to you so far now did I?

  Lori wondered for a moment , the creature was telling the truth , so far it only helped her ,

  and despite his scary appearance and quite brutal way of fighting , Lori had no real reason

  not to trust him , but before she could mutter any more words…

  -So… what’s your name little one?

  Lori relaxed a little bit , this conversation started getting a bit more casual now , as long as

  she does not look directly at him she does not feel any fear.

  -Im Lori…thanks for helping me…Mister…umm…

  -Call me Khain , and drop the Mister to make it easier.

  -I see, well then…thank you Khain , for the help, but… sorry…but I just need to

  know…why would someone like you help me?

  The creature looked down and chuckled for a moment then looked at her again.

  -Someone like me? You mean why would a monster help anyone? Yeah I get that a

  lot… And make no mistake , I can’t call myself a good person , but at the same time I

  just can’t bear to watch suffering of those who do not deserve it , and besides , that

  Oni’s got on my nerve , And let's just say... when I do lose my cool it does get quite

  messy, as you saw.

  Lori could only look at him analyzing his words , looking for any interior motives , she

  was still wary of him.

  -Yeah…you do know how to fight…but…you really should focus some more on your

  defense…not just rushing into offence…

  Lori could notice his shoulder wound , to her surprise it was almost healed , but still

  somewhat visible , but for now she didn’t feel the need to ask questions.

  Meanhwhile the creature looked at her baffled by her statement.

  -Oh really? Well thanks for the advice , but…how do you know how to fight?

  Lori’s gaze went straight to the ground…

  -My mom taught me many things…I mostly got the theory…we started actual physical

  training a bit before today…before she…

  Lori could not continue her sentence as tears flooded her eyes , her mind went through all

  the things that happened last night , and the creature noticed that.

  -Hey , forget that , thanks for the advice and all that , you don’t have to say anything

  more okay?

  Lori snapped back , and her grip on her mother’s blade tightened.

  -This sword…was my mom’s…It’s the only thing I have left of her…-Said Lori with tears

  in her eyes

  -It is a really nice blade , it cut that Oni no problem , impressive , your mother must

  have been quite a fighter.

  -She was the best…they…they must have just surprised her with the number

  advantage…

  -She truly must have been good then , not many can just beat an Oni , if she truly

  could then she must have been one hell of a fighter, also , that blade looks kind of

  magical , probably some enchantment, did she have any other magic stuff?

  Lori then remembered another thing and quickly grabbed her neck … then sighed with relief

  as Zelle’s necklace was still there.

  -No , she did not , it was just this blade , I never asked her how or from who she got

  it…

  Khain noticed the necklace.

  -Huh , I see , but what about that necklace? It also seems…rather odd.

  Lori hid it under her shirt again.

  -It was a gift from a friend…she…she is gone now…

  -Oh…im sorry to hear that...

  Lori then remembered something else…

  -I need to go back to the village for a moment! – She said with haste before running

  off to the village

  Khain looked in surprise.

  -Hey , wait up! – He yelled before following right after her.

  After a moment they reached the ruins of the village and Lori started running around ,trying

  not to look at the corpses…then she found what she was looking for… Zelle’s remains….

  Despite the pain she got closer and investigated them , then she noticed the thing she was

  looking for , it was Zelle’s bracelet.

  -Im sorry Zelle…you should have been the one to survive…the least I can do…Is to

  take care of that…

  She put the bracelet on while Khain watched from behind.

  -Was she…that friend?

  Lori turned around , clearing tears from her eyes.

  -Yes…my only real friend…her name was Zelle…

  Khain looked down on the ground visibly disturbed…

  -Im …sorry…I…

  Khain stopped mid sentence.

  -Listen Lori…Im sorry this all happened…I really am , If only I got there just a bit

  faster…If only…I had found that Oni’s earlier…it all would have been different… Im

  sorry…

  Lori was surprised , she did not expect to hear something like this at all , she tought for a

  moment before saying anything…

  -It’s not your fault…don’t blame yourself… you saved me after all…right?

  Khain’s eyes opened wide.

  -Right! But… Lori… this place isn’t safe anymore… So please…come with me so we can

  find you somewhere safe to stay.

  Lori knew he was right , and she knew very well she couldn’t make it far by herself , she had

  no choice but to agree and go with him.

  -You are right…let’s go then…I will follow your lead…

  Khain smiled , it was almost a warm smile despite all the sharp teeth creeping Lori out.

  -Great, the closest city is a pretty large distance from here so it will take a while , but I

  promise , I will do everything I can to keep you safe through the journey…that’s the

  least I can do.

  Lori nods and they head out of the village , into the dark eerie forest ,And so the adventure

  of this unlikely duo begins.