The Adventure of Myrr and Te Nightingales: 6

Chapter 6

“You’re totally not going to believe this!” Lach tried not to shriek as she was holding a piece of paper. “We’re in the same pair!” She leapt with joy.

Myrr jumped with joy too as both of them were dancing gellfully. “This is great! I can’t believe that we’re going to be in the same pair!”

“Congratulation to both of you,” said Struer who just came from behind.

“Thanks, Struer. Oh, who’s your partner, by the way?” asked Myrr who was still smiling broadly.

Struer sighed and pointed to her twin brother. “Hittan.” She made a solemn face. Myrr and Lach couldn’t stop giggling.

“What with that sour face, Struer?” Hittan frowned furiously, his hands on the hips.

“I never thought I will end up pairing with you,” Struer said in a bored tone.

“Well I was thinking the same thing. Never mind, then. I guess we have to stick together until the end of the hunting test. But remember this, I’m going to be the leader and you must listen to everything I said,” he said with his chest high.

“Hey, who said that you’re going to be the leader?” This time Struer who had her hands on her hips. “I’m older than you,” she poked her finger to Hittan’s chest, hard.

“It doesn’t mean that you’re two hours older than me, you can be the leader. I’m a man, and the man is supposed to be the leader. Not a girl,” he answered back.

“Stop it, you two. If Mr. Reopan knows that you’re arguing, he will cancel your names on the list,” warned Myrr.

Both of them stopped mouth-fighting and went back to the class without talking with each other. Myrr and Lach laughed because Struer and Hittan were always fighting over the small thing.

The hunting test will be held on the next week so Myrr and Lach were preparing themselves to hunt the Dummy Ghouls. Myrr was waiting for this since she enrolled the School of Nightingales. Houle will be proud of her if she passed the test. She wanted to show him that she was capable to handle the Ghouls on her own.

They went back to their seat as their tutor, Reopan came in. He smiled warmly to his students. He put a stack of papers that he carried when he entered the class. He cleared his throat politely and the students were in silence, waiting for him to explain.

“Have you found your partner?” asked Reopan. The students nodded while saying yes. “Good. Now, I want to give two pieces of paper each. This one,” he lifted up a blue coloured paper, “is your parents’ permission. This test is quite dangerous since this is the first time you guys will be using your own weapon. You’ll get the permission first, and then you’ll receive your won weapon, alright?” He handed to the President of the Class.

“And this one,” he lifted up a green coloured paper, “is your fitness check up. The Healing Squad will come tomorrow morning and you’ll have your fitness check up. You are compulsory to undergo a fitness check because it is essential for you to know whether you’re really fit or not. Those who have any illness will undergo another medical test before you are allowed for the Hunting Test. Any question?” he looked around, searching for the raising hands. “No. Good. You can scramble back to your house; get your parents’ permission. See you again, tomorrow!”

The class cheered and everyone was eager to go back home after they got the two pieces of papers. Reopan knew that this was what they were waiting for. The test will show their bravery and skills. He waited for the whole class to dismiss. Myrr walked up to him as he was getting ready to leave.

“Excuse, Mr. Reopan. Sorry for not raising my hand just now. Can I as you about the parents’ permission?” asked Myrr politely and showed the blue coloured paper.

“Yes, sure, Myrr,” he smiled.

“Do I have to get the permission from my Uncle Shatter or from Houle?” Myrr looked at him, waiting for the answer.

“You can ask them both. If you stopped by your uncle’s mansion, you can get his permission. Either, you can get Houle’s permission. He’s your legal guardian so he has the right for allowing you or not,” he replied.

“Oh, okay then. Thank you, Mr. Reopan,” Myrr smiled broadly and bowed to him. Reopan chuckled and patted on her head.

“Now go home, little Myrr. See you again, tomorrow,” he waved at her as she’s leaving.

Houle was drenched in sweat. He was panting hard while gripping the sword. Ever single muscle in his body was aching. He wiped the sweat on his forehead with the back of his hand and gripped the sword again. His vision was getting blurry but he didn’t want to withdraw. He could barely stand up for his legs were getting wobbly. The room was tropically hot.

Feoh knew Houle couldn’t continue any longer. He lowered his sword to show that the training was ended. “That’s enough for today, Houle. I can see you could barely stand,” said Feoh.

“Please, Chieftan Feoh,” pleaded Houle while panting hard. “Just a little longer.”

Feoh shook his head. “No, Houle. We must stop here or it’ll affect your health. You can come by in next two days. You need rest,” said Feoh in serious tone.

Houle understood and loosen his grip to the sword and lowered it. His wobbly legs made him stumble on the floor. Feoh handed him a bottle of energy drink and Houle gulped the water down. Feoh patted Houle’s broad shoulder to tell him that he has tried his best. Feoh knew that Houle was training very hard to get stronger and he was proud of Houle’s determination and effort. For two years he trained him and he knew Houle was improving his sword’s skill day by day. He wanted to train him more even when Houle was suited to have his own sword. Sometimes he will let Houle sparred with his son, Joind for he was very skilful in sword fighting.

Houle took a rest for a while before heading back home. After drinking the energy drink and took a shower at Feoh’s mansion, he got back his strength. But still his muscle was still aching a little. When he reached home, he was surprised to see Myrr was cooking, guided by her cousin, Arwe.

“Welcome back, Houle,” greeted Myrr while stirring her soup. “How’s your training?” she asked.

“Not bad but my body is sore,” he replied and sat on the chair. “What’s cooking?”

“Chicken soup with mixed vegetable. Arwe taught me,” she smiled. Arwe nodded and told to stir the soup until it mix well with the vegetables.

“I heard you’re having a special training with Chieftan Feoh,” he said, pulling the chair in front of Houle and sat down.

“Yeah. But it’s not easy. He’s very skilled in sword fighting and I can’t even scratch him one,” he ran his fingers to his flaming red hair.

“Of course, you block head. He’s the toughest and the strongest among all the Chieftans. A person like you couldn’t defeat him,” he smirked irritatedly to Houle.

“What did you say?” he growled and stood up to punch Arwe in the face.

Myrr turned around and scowled ferociously at both of them. “Stop it or no lunch!”

Both Arwe and Houle timidly nodded and got back to their seat. They knew what will happen if Myrr got mad.

“We will be having a Hunting Test next week,” said Myrr while eating her lunch. “I was partnered with Lach and we’re going to be the best pair!”

“Well, that’s great. We hope you’ll pass the test,” Arwe smiled proudly.

“Arwe is right. The test will be held at night, right?” asked Houle.

Myrr nodded.

“I’ll be cheering for you,” he patted Myrr’s head and smiled.

“Oh, before I forgot,” Myrr jumped off the chair and took a out a piece of paper inside her bag, “ you need to sign the permission paper. Reopan said that I can get the permission either from you or Uncle Shatter.”

Houle took the paper. “Okay. I’ll sign it after this.”

“Yes!” Myrr threw a punch into the air. “Thanks, Houle!”

“You’re most welcome. Now finish your meal. You too, Arwe,” Houle glanced at Arwe who almost finish his lunch.

Arwe chuckled and after that he helped Myrr to wash the dishes. Houle went up to his room for he was very tired. He really needed some rests before having another extra training with Feoh in three days.

“Okay, let’s do a little check up,” Pelle smiled cheerfully as Myrr entered the room.

“I can’t wait for the Hunting Test, Pelle. It’s going to be awesome! I’ve been waiting for this in my whole life!” said Myrr excitedly.

Pelle giggled. “You remind me when I was your age, Myrr. I, too, couldn’t wait for the test. And guess who’s my partner?”

“Reles?” Myrr guessed.

Pelle shook her head. “It’s Esclice. I was so excited that time,” her smile subsided. “That night was the first time I fell in love with him.”

Myrr stared at Pelle and patted her hand. Pelle smiled and did the check up. Myrr didn’t say a word about her brother, not in front of Pelle. Pelle was her brother’s fiancé. They planned to get married as soon as Myrr finish her Junior year. When she received the death news of Esclice, she was crying bitterly in her room after the funeral. She loved Esclice so much and she felt that her world was crumbling into dust. But when she saw Myrr who was feeling down at that time, she promised herself to be strong. She promised Myrr to be her sister where she’ll have a shoulder to cry on.

When the medical test was done, Myrr and Lach went to Reopan’s office to submit the permission paper and medical test paper. Reopan gave them inspirational words before they left the room. Then both of them went to the Blue Forest to train.

It was a freezing cold night. Houle was wandering in the middle of nowhere. The air was thick, as well as the fogs. His feet were getting cold for he didn’t wear any boots. He looked around but he couldn’t recognize the place. He continued walking until he heard voices. The fog cleared little by little and the voices were getting louder. Houle searched for the voices.

Then, he stopped. He saw grey brick arch, standing tall in front of him. Dried grasses filled the along the path and he saw four crows were crowing loudly. He took a step forward, feeling scared. Then, he heard those voices again. His paced was getting faster as the voices were getting near. The bright moon shone upon the path and he was terrified of what he had seen. Skeletons were everywhere and the wailing and crying voices could be heard loudly.

He couldn’t move. His feet were stuck on the ground. The spirits appeared from the rotten skeletons and swirling around him, yelling to him that he was a murderer. The spirits kept on yelling and yelling, accusing Houle for being a murderer. Houle’s ears couldn’t stand the yelling and he covered his ears with his hand.

“No! I’m not a murderer!” he shouted but the spirits ignored him. “Leave me alone! Leave me alone!”

Houle jerked up from the bed. He was sweating hard. He looked around and he realized he was inside his room. His breath was getting calm. He was having a nightmare. Suddenly, someone knocked on the door and opened it. It was Myrr. She ran toward him with a worry look.

“What’s wrong, Houle? I heard your scream just now,” she asked worryingly.

“I’m having a nightmare,” Houle replied in a hoarse voice. “Sorry for waking you up, Myrr.”

Myrr hugged him. “It’s okay,” Myrr looked at him and wiped the sweat with her sleeve.

‘Thanks, Myrr. I’m fine now,” he patted her head.

“Do you want me to sleep with you tonight?” asked Myrr, holding his hand gently.

Houle shook his head and said he was fine. Myrr kissed his cheek before going back to her room. Houle lied on the bed and stared at the ceiling. He never had that kind of nightmare before. He didn’t want to continue sleeping. The feverish images of the rotten skeletons and the angry spirits were playing in his mind. This was the first time he felt terrified.

The Adventure of Myrr and The Nightingales: 5

Chapter 5

“Myrr! Breakfast is ready!” Houle called from the kitchen.

“In a minute!” Myrr shouted back. She combed her shoulder length hair and tight it in a ponytail. She then quickly took the last glance of herself in a mirror as she straightened her tunic. She grabbed her bag and went downstairs.

Houle took off the apron and hung it on the wall and served breakfast. Myrr joined him few minutes later.

“Omelette and bread toast? Is that all?” she asked before she sat on the chair.

“No complaining, young lady. This is all we have for today and you have to go to the grocery store this afternoon,” said Houle and poured the milk in the glass and put it at Myrr’s place, the place she used to sit.

“What? Why me?” she frowned and took a seat. She gulped the milk.

“Because today is your turn,” Houle pointed a piece of paper pasted at the food cupboard. Myrr rolled her eyes. “You don’t have evening training class so you need to go to the grocery. Here’s the list of things you should buy,” Houle passed a small piece of paper to her.

Myrr munched the bread toast and stared at the paper. “Okay then,” she shrugged, food was still in her mouth.

“How many times do I have to tell you, young lady, don’t talk while your mouth is full?” he warned but in gentle tone.

“More than hundreds,” Myrr giggled. Houle smiled and they continued eating breakfast while talking about school.

It had been two years since the tragedy and Myrr was getting taller a bit. She grew her hair long until it reached her shoulder while Houle just like his hair to be cut short. Houle lived with Myrr since he’s her guardian. Shatter often visited them during the weekend. Houle begged Shatter for permission to join School of Nightingales. He wanted to get stronger so that he could protect Myrr. Shatter agreed but Houle must not let anyone knows that he’s not originally from the tribe since not all people knew that Myrr found him two years ago. Houle was indescribably happy when he received the good news and promised to study hard.

Houle made sure the house was securely locked before went off to the school. He usually went to school with Myrr since they were in the same school but different building. Myrr managed to pass few tests and nominated as the Junior Nightingale while Houle made into the school with only one test and he passed with great result. He was the Senior Nightingale and hoping to graduate as the Warrior of Nightingale.

“What class do you have for today?” asked Houle before parting.

“Spell-casting class,” answered Myrr. “See you this afternoon,” Myrr smiled and waved.

Houle nodded and watched her until she disappeared from his sight. Then she continued walking to his class.

“Good morning!” greeted Reles, waving at him.

“Good morning, Reles. Being a tutor today, eh?” said Houle.

“Yup. Need to teach little monkeys about fighting,” she grinned. She always called the Juniors ‘little monkeys’. “How’s Myrr doing?”

“Just like usual,” he shrugged. “Complaining the breakfast.”

Reles laughed. “Well, see you around,” she patted him on the back and rushed to the class.

Houle wrote every single thing during the lecture. He was sitting in the lecture hall with his two good friends, Apologos and Berstan. He met those two when he was accepted in this school and they’ve became good friends since then. He always tried to concentrate during the lecture session and sometimes he felt very sleepy. He was not good in spell-casting and healing but good in fighting. His friend, Apologos always trained with him almost every day, during the training session whilst Berstan joined the Healing Squad because both of her parents are Healers.

The class ended at mid-noon and Houle would wait for Myrr at the front gate. Myrr appeared few moments later and they walked back home together. But today was Myrr’s turn to go to the grocery store so they parted at the junction near their house. The grocery store was not far from Myrr’s house so Houle did not have to be worried of her safety. Besides, the grocery store belongs to Struer’s family.

That grocery store was not like any normal one. It looked small but once we go inside, it’s like we’re in the different dimension. There were few big trees in the corner and the store was very spacious. Fireflies spread everywhere giving light to the customers. Myrr loved being in this kind of place. She walked towards a raccoon-like creature who was sitting on the big, fluffy red mushroom, reading a newspaper. He was one of the workers in the store and he smiled as Myrr approached him.

“Good afternoon, Myrr. What can I do for you today?” he asked affably.

“Good afternoon, Gimme. I wanted to buy these things in this list,” Myrr smiled back at him and handed him the list.

Gimme looked at the list and snapped his finger. A small rodent appeared and Gimme told him to get those things in the list. Within few seconds, the groceries that Myrr needed were there, on the counter. Gimme counted the price and Myrr paid it. She took the groceries which were put in the bag and waved at Gimme. Gimme winked at her and told her to come again.

As Myrr went out from the store, she was shocked when someone greeted her.

“Hello there, Myrr,” greeted a man who was leaning on the store’s wooden wall.

“Oh, hello there, Mr. Scotan. Good afternoon,” she bowed slightly.

“Shopping?” he asked, glancing at the grocery’s bag.

“Yes,” Myrr nodded.

“Are you alone? Where’s your guardian?” he smiled.

“He’s at home. It’s my turn to come and buy these groceries,” she replied.

Myrr was a little bit scared of this man for he was the greatest Assassin and also known as Executioner. He was tall and slender and has short violet blue hair. For Myrr, his expression was weird especially when he smiled. But she knew that Scotan is a good friend of her late father and Shatter.

They chatted for few moments and Myrr excused herself to go home for she was kind of late. Scotan patted on her head softly and she ran along. Scotan watched her leave and kept staring at her until she disappeared from his sight. He smiled meaningfully and left the store. He really wanted to keep an eye on Myrr.

Myrr reached home few minutes later and she heard Houle was arguing with someone. She took off her shoes and rushed to the kitchen, holding the groceries bag. She saw Houle, who was wearing an apron was having a row with her cousin, Arwe.

“You let her go alone to the grocery store? You should be there with her,” scolded Arwe. “What if something bad happened to her?”

“I’m still fine”, said Myrr. Arwe was surprised to see her.

“See?I told you not to worry much. The grocery store is not far from here. And besides, she used to go there since she’s five,” said Houle confidently.

“Hey, how do you know that I’ve been there since I was five?” asked Myrr, putting the grocery bag on the table.

Houle took all the things inside the bag and put them in the cabinet accordingly. “Lucky guess,” he grinned. “Now, can both of you please not to disturb me because I need to cook.”

“I can cook better than you,” Arwe smirked.

“No, you can’t,” said Houle.

“Yes,” Arwe stepped forward, “I can.”

“Okay, smart boy. Let’s compete. The best meal, win,” Houe challenged Arwe.

“Bring it on!” Arwe slammed his hand on the table.

Myrr rolled her eyes. Those two were always arguing every time they met. And it annoyed her. Houle asked her to be the judge but Myrr refused. She didn’t want to get involve with their fights.

“What’s cooking?” someone appeared suddenly at the window. Both Arwe and Houle jumped off their skin.

“Don’t ever do that again!” said them in unison.

“Uncle Sequi!” Myrr greeted him and invited him to come inside.

Sequi is one of the great Healer and his hobby is lingering around, doing nothing, if he’s not busy. He sometimes loved slacking off.

“How are you, my cute little kitten?” he hugged Myrr.

“I’m good and healthy. What about you?” asked Myrr.

“I’m hungry and I need to full my stomach,” Sequi patted on his stomach.  Myrr giggled.

“Then stay here for lunch with us. Arwe and Houle are going to cook something,” said Myrr cheerfully.

“Well, that’s very nice of you,” he smiled and turned to Arwe and Houle who were scowling each other furiously. “So, what’s cooking?” he asked.

“Beef curry!”

“Grilled beef!”

Both of them growled to each other. Then Myrr told Sequi that they were having a cooking competition and asked him to be the judge. Sequi agreed and both Arwe and Houle cooked as delicious as they could. Sequi couldn’t tell who the best cook was because he was too hungry. Everything that he ate was considered delicious.

They ate lunch together and after that Arwe excused himself for he needed to go back to his Barrack. Myrr cleaned up the table and went to her room to change to her usual attire. Sequi was still there, drinking lemon juice. He was free the whole day.

“How’s school?” asked Sequi. “Are you the same class with my daughter?”

Houle nodded. “School’s okay, I guess. The test will be held next two weeks and if we passed this one, we’re going for the level 1 training. I heard we need to fight with dummy ghouls,” he replied.

“That’s great. Everyone is waiting for that moment. But you must be careful, Houle, when you meet the Ghouls,” warned Sequi and he was definitely looked very serious.

“Why?” Houle frowned. “It’s just a dummy. It’s nothing to worry about.”

“I’m not talking about the dummy. I’m talking about Ghouls. You should not let your secret revealed,” said Sequi in a very serious tone.

The Adventure of Myrr and The Nightingales: 4

Chapter 4

Esclice sighed heavily as he told Myrr about his mission. He knew Myrr didn’t like to be left alone since his father died in his mission. Myrr was crying for weeks before she regain to herself. Myrr was surprised to hear the news and she kept on silent. Esclice knew that she was sad but this mission was not the option. He had to go by hook or by crook as the Leader of his Squad. After his father’s death, the First-Line Commander chose him to take over his father’s place as the Leader. Esclice was better than his late father and he never failed his mission once.

Myrr shut herself in her room. She stared at the window and prayed that her brother won’t go. But she knew her wish won’t come true because she knew Esclice very well. He was a respected Leader and he carried his mission with full of determination. That’s why Esclice became her idol and she wanted to be like Esclice one day even though she knew the missions would be more dangerous than she could ever imagine.

She also heard the news from her uncle that there was a traitor among the Nightingales and they were investigating for a very long time. Myrr was scared when she heard that but since Esclice was always by her side, her cowardice subsided.

Myrr went out from her room and searched for Esclice. He was in his room, packing his stuffs inside his square small sack. Myrr slowly tiptoed to her brother’s room. Esclice knew her presence and let her came in. He turned to her and smiled half-heartedly. He also didn’t want to leave her sister alone.

“Do you really have to go?” Myrr broke the silence.

“I wish I won’t, Myrr. But I have to carry out this mission as a Leader,” Esclice stared at his small sack.

Myrr tugged Esclice’s arm and hugged it tight. “I don’t want you to go,” she said softly.

Esclice sighed and patted her head gently. “You don’t have to worry about me, Myrr. I promise I’ll be back home as soon as I completed the mission. And I promise not to let myself hurt,” said Esclice.

They had their last breakfast that morning – in silence. Myrr tried her best to hold her tears. She ate her cereal but it seemed tasteless. Arwe came as they finished eating. Arwe told Myrr that they’ll be alright. Myrr was sent to her uncle’s house.

“Take care of my sister, Houle, said Esclice before he went off.

“Don’t worry. She’ll be safe here,” Houle nodded.

“Wait for me here, Myrr. I’ll be back soon,” Esclice hugged Myrr and Myrr sobbed in frustration. She gripped her brother’s tunic tight but lastly she let it go.

Esclice and Arwe waved their last goodbye and they were off to Regnum’s barrack.

Regnum was sitting on his seat, in front of the square table. Only Esclice, Arwe and Flycerian, the Head of the Assassin were sitting around the table. Then, another two Leaders arrived and the meeting started. Regnum clearly stated about the crucial mission. One of the spy team members reported that the Apparitions appeared near The Hundred Bridges, the place where the Folcs lived. The Folcs are the common tribe of the Rhoms. Most of them are fishermen and farmers. Farmers usually lived in Slugstream while fishermen lived in The Hundred Bridges. The Folcs are not warriors like Nightingales. They need to join the Nightingale School and passed all the physical tests before being nominated as the Nightingales. But only few Folcs joined the school as they loved living as the common tribe.

“Our mission is to guard The Hundred Bridges before the Apparitions evolved into Phantom and spread to Newray Port and Horizontal Stream since they can’t intrude Soncity easily,” said Regnum. “I will now divide all of you into two groups. Flycerian will lead the first group while I’ll be leading the second group. Esclice and Arwe, you’ll be in the first group. The rest will go with me. First group must kill any sign of Apparitions and Ghouls that intrude the Black Area. If any of your team members encounter the Phantom, reported to us right away because the second group will break in their hidden nests. I’ve been reported they settled their nests near the Black Area and Newray Port.”

Flycerian and her team nodded in agreement. Then, the meeting was dismissed. Esclice and Arwe followed Flycerian orders and they headed to The Hundred Bridges by riding Gallop, a huge dragonfly-like creature with dark purple moth wings. Before they took off, they made sure that they had brought their weapons.

“This mission might turn out to war. Stay in groups; follow the Leaders’ and my orders. If you’re outnumbered, retreat and don’t take drastic step by entering the enemies’ den alone. Is that clear?” said Flycerian with a loud, clear voice. The troops of the first group nodded in unison.

Esclice and the other Leaders wore black headbands and rode the Gallop with full of determination and spirit. This was his first time leading his group to a war. Inside his heart, he prayed for Myrr’s safety. But he didn’t seem to be quite worried for Houle will take care of his sister.

It’s been two weeks since Esclice had gone to war. Myrr received no news about her brother since then. She was very worried and lost her appetite but it lasted only few days. Houle and her friends always cheered her up and that made her gain her cheerful self back. She knew that her brother will come back after completing his mission – she didn’t know that the mission had turned out to war. She went to school with highly spirit and that made her class tutor, Reopan, happy.

Every evening she and Houle went for training at Lach’s barrack. Lach’s father, Feoh, also went to the war for he was the strongest Leader among all the Nightingales. Houle trained with Lach’s brother, Joind. Feoh didn’t send him to go to war for he wanted Joind to take care of Lach since Lach was very small and needed to train hard to be Nightingale like him. They sometimes trained at the Blue Forest.

Houle was getting better at training every day. Joind trained him well although his training was harder than Houle thought. But Houle was determined to become stronger and he attempted to be part of the Nightingales. Myrr and Lach stopped training as they were very tired. Both of them were ready to take part in the sword fight competition which will be held in the next two months.

As they were cooling themselves down, they heard the sound of the trumpet blowing not far from the Blue Forest. They knew the sound was blown to announce that the warriors had came back home. Myrr and Lach couldn’t wait to see their love ones and they rushed to where the trumpet was blown; Soncity Square.

Houle caught up with Myrr and Myrr’s eyes were searching for her brother wildly. She saw Commander Regnum together with Lach’s father, Feoh. But she couldn’t find her brother. She grabbed Houle’s hand and went on further. Then, her eyes widened to see her cousin, Arwe was lying weakly on Gallop, accompanied by another archery teams. Feoh and Regnum were also injured but not as bad as Arwe.

“Arwe!” Myrr ran to him. “What happen to you? Where’s Esclice?” she bombarded him with the questions.

Arwe tried to stand up but his body was badly injured. One of his friends helped him up. “Myrr, I’m sorry,” he held Myrr’s hand. “I...couldn’t save Esclice,” he groaned in pain.

Myrr shook her head. She didn’t want to believe what she heard just now. Regnum came to her and looked at her with sad eyes.

“Myrr, your brother fought hard but he couldn’t make it. When the enemies attacked with shooting fires, we couldn’t save your brother. We didn’t even find the body but this,” he put Esclice black headbands on Myrr’s trembling hand. “I’m so sorry for the lost,” he said quietly.

Myrr cried. She wailed her brother’s name. She wished this was just a dream. She wanted to wake up from this nightmare. But she was not dreaming. What she’s heard was the truth. She lost her family, her love ones. She didn’t have anyone anymore. She felt that her heart was crushed.

Houle crouched down before her and hugged her tight. He remembered the last word from Esclice before he left. And he remembered that Myrr told him about her dream, his promise to her. He knew the feeling being left alone. He could feel Myrr’s feeling the moment he hugged her. Inside his heart, he vowed to protect Myrr with his life and will always be her side, forever.

The Adventure of Myrr and the Nightingales: 3

Chapter 3

Houle sat at the front door, watching the scenery. The birds were chirping delightfully as it was bright and sunny day. He loved watching birds and smelled the fresh air in the morning and evening. This peacefulness brought him joy and happiness. Somehow, he missed his home.

His wounds were getting better but still he couldn’t move around much. He’s waiting for someone; someone who was very concerned towards him. He didn’t know her but she always told him that he met her before. He couldn’t remember anything except for his name. And he’s been staying in this big house for almost two months since he regained consciousness.

The male doctor usually came twice a week to check on his body and his health. That doctor was funny, he thought. He was talkative and sometimes annoyed him. But he couldn’t care less for everyone that he knew here was very friendly and helpful. Even the master of this big house was nice towards him although he had a very serious face and less talkative.

He heard somebody was calling his name. He knew this voice and that person whom he waited had arrived. She was running happily towards him and this time she brought something in her hand. She always came with her brother and that reminded him of his lost little sister.

“Hello, Houle!” greeted Myrr as she bought some cakes to him.

“Hello, Myrr,” he smiled.

Myrr sat beside him and showed the cake. “Esclice bought a cake. Here, try some,” she held the cake and he took it. “How was it?” asked Myrr as Houle was munching the cake slowly.

“It’s good. I like it,” he replied.

Myrr cheered.

“How’s your wounds?” asked Esclice.

“Getting better,” he said.

Esclicle smiled. “Well, Myrr. You don’t have to worry about him anymore.”

Then the master of this house appeared and Myrr hugged him. He was her uncle and he’s responsible to take of Myrr and Esclice since their father passed away two years ago.

“Esclice bought a cake, Uncle Shatter. You should try some,” said Myrr and asked him to try the cakes.

“Thank you, Myrr. Let me order tea for you,” said Shatter and told his servant to serve tea.

Shatter is the Chief of Elite Squadron and he’s an influenced man in Soncity, where most the Nightingales lived. Everyone respected him and he’s a good leader. His wife died because of a disease and because he didn’t have children, he adopted Myrr and Esclice to be part of his family.

They had their tea together and Myrr told her story in school to Houle. Houle didn’t talk much but rather listened to Myrr’s story. He remembered when he woke up from unconscious two months ago, Myrr was the first person who talked to him. She was very excited because she had found the man that she met in her dream. It was a dream comes true! But her happiness was crumbling into dust when Houle asked her who she was and where he was at that time.

But Myrr didn’t give up. She took care of him day by day for he was too weak to get up. He was confused when Myrr said that he scribbled the picture on the Scribbling Tree. But he knew that one day he will find who he was and where he came from. And he knew that Myrr will help him to find the answer.

Esclice finished his task early. He went patrolling in the nearest district and took a break at the food stall before going back to his office. After eating, he walked the opposite way to his office because he remembered something. Something that could give him an answer. He went to the Barrack 14 and met Scild, the Weapon Master and Tracker.

“It’s nice to meet you, Esclice. It’s been a while,” he greeted Esclice as Esclice came into his office.

“Am I bothering you, Scild?” asked Esclice and sat on the chair.

“No, not at all. I was feeling bored. My wife took the children for training since they needed to sharpen their skills,” he replied. “How’s Myrr? I heard that the man that you found gained his conscious.”

“She’s doing fine. She’s taking care of him. Besides, she’s having a month break before the entering the third level,” said Esclice. “I’m here to ask you something, about Houle. Myrr told me hundreds time that Houle is the man that she met in her dream. But Houle who appeared two months ago is slightly different from what she had seen before.”

“Different?” Scild was getting interested in what Esclice was telling him.

“In her dream, Houle’s hair was short and he had a weird mark on both of his arms. But there’s no mark on his arms and his hair was longer. But Myrr gave a nice haircut to his hair. She said it’s too messy and boys should have short hair rather than keeping it long. But that’s not the thing I wanted to discuss with you. It’s about the mark. Myrr drew this once and I still keep this drawing,” Esclice pulled out a piece of paper from his robe and showed it to Scild.

Scild looked at the drawing carefully. Myrr’s drawing was very neat and clear. He frowned and put the paper on the table. “I need time to investigate this thing. As a Tracked, I need a lot of details before getting the answer. Can I keep this drawing for a while?” asked Scild.

“Sure. No problem. If there anything you’ve found, just tell me,” said Esclice and stood up. “I need to go back to the office. Uncle Shatter might nag me if I come back late.”

“Shatter is a very punctual person. And strict too. I wonder how your father dealt with him when he was alive,” Scild chuckled.

“Dad was his big brother. He always listened to what Dad told him,” Esclice smiled and excused himself.

Houle watched Myrr playing with the little blue butterflies. Myrr took him for a walk in a wood near Shatter’s house. Houle was getting better and he enjoyed himself walking in a wood. He still tried to remember what had happened in his past but failed. He was quite sad but when he met Myrr, she somehow brought hope to his despair.

Myrr talked about her dream to be an adventurer when she grew up. She told everything to Houle even though he seldom replied to Myrr’s opinion. Myrr enjoyed her daily life talking to Houle. She was sure that one day Houle will get his memory back and remember the time that they met in her dream.

Myrr caught one blue butterfly and brought it to Houle who was sitting under the shady tree. “Isn’t it beautiful?” asked Myrr, showing him the blue butterfly.

“Yes, it is,” replied Houle and looked at the butterfly. “You love butterfly?”

Myrr nodded with a smile on her face. “I like butterflies. One day, I’m going to fly out of this place and travel to other places. I heard from my cousin that there are a lot of interesting places in this world. Maybe we can go together, Houle,” she said cheerfully.

Houle smiled and nodded. “I love travelling too.”

“That’s great! We can be a great team!” cheered Myrr. “Just imagine. Myrr and Houle, the greatest adventurers!” she waved her hand, imagining the two of them travelling together by riding a Gallop.

Houle chuckled and that was the first time he seemed so happy. After a few moments, he walked Myrr back to Shatter’s home where Shatter and Esclice were waiting for them. Myrr waved him goodbye and promised to come again the next day after school. Houle said that he will wait for her at the veranda as usual.

That night, Shatter asked Houle to join him for dinner in the Main Dining Hall. Houle was surprised to see the spacious hall with decorations hanging on the wall. He had never been to this hall before. He never thought that this house was this big. Big dining table stood at the centre of the hall and rows of servants were serving the food. All of them bowed down to Shatter and Houle as they approached the table. Houle couldn’t stop staring at the servants who were more than 20.

Shatter asked him to sit on the chair and the servants poured down the drink in each glass. The servant asked Houle if he wanted another drink but Houle politely refused. He was feeling awkward when the servants bowed to him before leaving. He stared at his meal. He never ate this kind of meal before. And it smells very nice that made his stomach grumbled. Shatter and Houle were having a silence dinner since they didn’t talk much. Shatter wasn’t the person who talked much and he was giving Houle times to adapt to his house and get his memory back.

Myrr, Lach and her two other friends Stuer and Hittan were waiting for their names to be called by their teacher. Today was the day that they’ve been waiting since they had gone through some tests. Myrr clasped her hand and prayed. She hoped that her name will be called because she really wanted to make her brother proud. Her teacher was announcing the names that passed the Elementary Level. Those who passed will be called Junior Nightingales and they will automatically further their study to the Middle Level.

Then Myrr heard that her name has been announced. She cheered as well as her other three friends who also succeed in their Elementary Level. They hugged each other and thanked the teacher. Most of Myrr’s classmates were going to the Middle Level. Myrr received a certificate and her result book. She passed the tests quite well and she could not wait to show this to Esclice.

She ran back home happily and told Esclice about her result. Esclice was very happy for her and he brought her to Shatter’s house. Shatter and Houle congratulated her and Shatter told her to do well in her Middle Level. Shatter threw a party and Myrr invited her friends to come. Lach came with her father, Feoh, the most respected warrior in Soncity. Feoh was also a good friend of Myrr’s late father and Shatter. Stuer and Hittan came with their parents. Myrr and her friends enjoyed the party and they danced together. Myrr also introduced Houle to her friends and they invited Houle to dance but Houle refused. He didn’t know how to dance and Myrr taught him a little bit.

Then, her cousin, Arwe came. He didn’t know that there’s a party at Shatter’s house. Shatter invited Arwe to join them. Arwe congratulated Myrr and gave her a present which was a tunic. Myrr needed to wear tunic if she wanted to be a Nightingale. Myrr was very happy and asked Arwe to dance with her. Arwe danced with her for a few moments and then excused himself to join Esclice.

“I went to your house but no one was around. So I knew that you’re here,” said Arwe, sipping his drinks.

“Myrr got her result and it’s quite good. That’s why we came here to let Uncle Shatter know,” said Esclice. “Anyway, what’s the reason you come here? Just want to meet me or something?”

Arwe took something from his pocket. “We have a mission and we need to report at Chieftan Regnum’s barrack tomorrow.”

Esclice sighed. He knew about the mission since last week during the meeting. It was not like the other mission that he had taken part. This one was very dangerous. He took a glance at Myrr who was playing with her friends. He knew Myrr will be sad if she knew that he had to leave him for few weeks.

The Adventure of Myrr and The Nightingales: 2

Chapter 2

One of her favourite things that she enjoyed in school is music lesson. During the music lesson, Myrr will give full attention and concentration on what her teacher taught in the class. She played flute as well as her friends, Lach and Struer. Her other friend, Hittan played guitar for he said that flute is for the girls. Boys don’t play the flute.

Music is one thing that can heal someone’s soul, that’s what Myrr’s teacher always stated in the class. Myrr loved music. She could listen to any melody without being distracted to her surroundings.

But today, her mind was rather cloudy although she tried to concentrate on the pitching part of her flute. Lucky for her, her teacher and her friends didn’t notice her slight change in the class. It’s about her dream that she had last night.

Flashback.

Myrr walked as she looked around the walls. Pictures scribbled in every corner. She realized that she’s now inside a building. A castle, perhaps. Before, she only dreamt that she’s in the forest. Her dream today was different.

She continued walking, looking at the scribbling. She didn’t know who scribbled on the wall but the drawings were very enchanting. She wished that she could draw like that too. Then, she saw someone was standing in front of her. It was the man whom she always met in her dream; her guardian.

He was facing the wall and Myrr gathered her courage to approach that man. She walked slowly but the man knew her presence. He turned around and smiled and gestured to her to stand by his side.

Myrr stood beside him and saw a huge tree. There’s a scribbled on the bark of the tree.  It’s a picture of a boy, wielding a sword to fight a dragon. Behind that boy stood a little girl wearing a crown on her head. She’s a princess, thought Myrr.

“This is the picture that I drew when I was a kid,” said that man.

“The Scribbling Tree,” Myrr gasped.

“You knew about this tree?” asked that man.

Myrr nodded. “There’s a lot of Scribbling Trees at the Slug Stream,” Myrr replied.

“Good then. If you want to meet me in your world, find this tree with this drawing. I’ll come to you,” said the man.

Before Myrr could ask him more, she heard somebody called her name.

Myrr was not satisfied about her dream. She wanted to ask more about the man but her brother woke her up and she needed to go to school. The music lesson was over and Myrr and her friends shuffled to the Main Classroom. She put the flute in the locker in the Music Class with her name on it. The music lesson will continue tomorrow.

Myrr learned everything about the being that exist in her world. To be a Nightingale, one must know how to fight or how to heal. There are 7 Squadron that one can choose to be when he or she was nominated as the Nightingale. Myrr’s brother, Esclice was one of the Nightingales who had been chosen to the Elite Squadron. Her brother could fight well and for her, her brother was the strongest among the strongest. He performed well in his task although sometimes Myrr had to stay alone in her house.

Today, she learned about the Nightingales enemies. One of them was the Ghoul. Ghouls were lifeless dark creature that eats the Nightingales’ souls to attain immortal life. Ghouls could attack anytime; day or night, but easily being destroyed. But ghouls that eat too many souls will turn into the Phantom. Phantoms had their own body and looked like Nightingales but they had black eyes. Phantoms were dangerous because they used their own weapons. Some called the Phantom as the Fallen Nightingale.

Myrr and her classmates had not been given the weapon yet. They needed to pass the Weapon Art tests to gain a weapon. If they didn’t to be the Fighter, they could be the Healer and they needed to pass Healing tests to be a healer and further their knowledge to the Healing Squadron. Myrr didn’t like healing because she wanted to be like Esclice. She always practiced sword fighting with her brother every evening if Esclice was not busy. Sometimes, she practiced with her uncle.

She could remember all the enemies’ pictures and their characteristics for she had a good memory. She had passed a lot of written tests and quizzes and her teacher realized that Myrr got quite a good talent. She worked hard together with her friends for they wanted to be one of the greatest Nightingales.

Esclice brought Myrr to the field in Slug Stream because he didn’t have anything to do this evening. Myrr told him that she wanted to practice her flute. Myrr always practice her flute in the evening if she didn’t want to practice her sword art. She loved to go to the Slug Stream because the fields were green and very calmed. Her late father often brought her and Esclice here.

Esclice also brought his girlfriend, Pelle to join him and Myrr. Myrr liked Pelle. She’s beautiful and charming. She loved Myrr too since Myrr was small. Myrr always asked Esclice when he will get married with Pelle. Esclice just chuckled and told her the time will come. Myrr always want to have a big sister.

She played to flute and the melody spread to the whole field. Esclice and Pelle loved to hear the melody that came from Myrr’s flute. After nearly an hour, Myrr stopped playing and asked Esclice’s permission to go around the field. She promised not to go very far. She went to the shady trees nearby and those trees were Scribbling Trees. She liked to scribble anything to those trees.

As she was scribbling her picture with Esclice and Pelle in a wedding ceremony, she spotted one picture that she had seen before. She went to the tree and gasped. It was the picture of a boy who wielded a sword to a dragon and behind him stood a girl who wore a crown. It was as same as the picture she saw in her dream! Then she remembered the man in her dream told her.

She touched the drawing and suddenly the bushes nearby rustled. She nearly jumped and looked at the rustling bushes. Out of the blue, three Ghouls appeared in front of her. She screamed in fright. Esclice and Pelle heard her scream and scrambled to where she’s been. The Ghouls chased Myrr and one of them caught her feet. Myrr stumbled to the ground. Then, she saw a leech twinkled near her and caught it. In Slug Stream there were a lot of twinkling leeches and these leeches were magical. They could be used in medical class and they could also be poisonous.

The one that Myrr caught was poisonous. She twisted her body and threw the leech right into the Ghoul’s face. The Ghoul howled and she was free. As she tried to get up, another Ghoul appeared. She couldn’t do anything but screamed. Esclice and Pelle arrived and before both of them took action, another person appeared and hit the Ghoul. Then he killed another Ghoul with his bare hand.

Pelle helped Myrr to stand. Esclice came to her and asked her whether she’s hurt somewhere. But the three of them were shocked as the man turned to them. His hair was long and rebellious and his clothes were torn. He had a weird, glowing mark on his forehead. Myrr recognised who he was and before she could ask him, he fainted and fell to the ground.  

The Adventure of Myrr and The Nightingales

Chapter 1

“It’s perfect!”

Myrr raised the drawing. She was drawing the picture for 5 days. She stared at the picture, feeling satisfied of her great work. Myrr loved drawing and she could draw almost everything. She kept all her drawings in one box and she loved all her drawings. But this picture was very special from other drawings that she drew since she was small. This picture had its own meaning.

She put it on the table and searched for a suitable frame. She opened her cupboard and found one frame that she had kept for this special picture. She gently put her precious picture in the frame and put it on her study table.

She couldn’t help staring at her new, special drawing. She finally drew the picture of a man whom she met in her dream. A man with a scarlet hair. His face was still vivid and his voice was still shrouding inside her mind. She was sure that she will meet this man one day. Because this man had promised her something. And she will wait for the moment.

“Myrr, lunch is ready!”

She heard her brother, Esclice was calling for her. She went outside of her room and shuffled downstairs.

She only lived with her brother in this small house since their parents died. Her mother died when she gave birth to her. Her father died two years ago in a war. And now, her brother was the one who took care of her. She knew Esclice worked hard to earn their living and that’s why she promised herself to study hard and made her brother proud of her.

She sat on the table as her brother had served the food. Then, someone knocked on the door. Esclice asked her to get the door for he invited his best friend to come over. Myrr rushed to the door and opened it.

“Hello, Myrr! It’s been a while!” A girl with short ink-blue hair stood in front of door and hugged Myrr.

Myrr hugged her back excitedly. “Reles! I miss you!”

“And I miss you too, my sweet little Myrr!”

“Oh, please come in. Esclice cooked something special for us today,” Myrr ushered Reles to the dining room where Esclicle was waiting for them.

Esclice greeted her and asked about her duty. Reles was on duty for one week and that’s why he invited her for lunch. They have been a good friend since they were 4. And a year after that, Reles introduced him to her good friend and they fell in love with each other when they turned 16.

Esclice’s special person was on duty and he’s been longing to meet her for he was in other squadron. Myrr and Reles had a quite chat. Myrr had been offered to join the School of Nightingales as she passed her test with good result. Esclice was proud of her and always encouraged her to do her best.

Myrr shared her story about her dream with Esclice. Her brother was the person whom she can share anything with. Esclice listened to her story until the end.

“So, what do you think, Esclice?” asked Myrr as she ended her story.

“Hmm...I don’t know, Myrr,” he patted her head gently. “To have the same dream for more than one week is really something.”

Myrr stared at her brother. “It’s crazy, isn’t it?”

Esclice sighed. “Maybe we should consult to someone who knows about interpreting dreams.”

Then, Esclice remembered the Healing Squadron. Those who were chosen to the Healing Squadron has specialty in determining diseases as well as interpreting dreams besides being a doctor. And he knew that person could help Myrr to find the answer.

Esclice and Myrr were waiting at the guest lounge. Esclice’s girlfriend was on duty and he didn’t want to bother her with her work. Then, a tall, slender woman with orchid-pink braided hair greeted them. Esclice and Myrr bowed slightly for she was the Head of the Healing Squadron.

She invited them to her office and Myrr told her story. This was the first time she told someone about her dreams besides Esclice. She listened patiently to every single details from Myrr’s story.

“So, what do you think, Miss Heilen?” asked Esclice.

“Well, she’s been seeing this dream for more than a week. And I think it’s not just a dream. It’s a sign,” answered Heilen in a quite serious tone.

Myrr and Esclice exchanged glance with each other. They knew that the sign has its own secret to be revealed.

The Adventure of Myrr and The Nightingales

Prologue

She walked through the forest and it was dark. No sound was heard except her own footsteps. The ground crunched as she stepped on the dried leaves and sticks. Her feet didn’t seem to be hurt as she was barefooted. She stopped as she heard something from her right. Another footstep. And it became closer and closer.

She clutched her light blue pyjama; she always did that when she’s scared. Her feet became numb as she saw a shadow approaching. A big monster was shrouding inside her mind. She was sweating hard. She wanted to call for help but her voice won’t come out. She’s now in a grave danger!

The shadow crept slowly towards her like an evil lurked in the shadow. She tried to close her eyes when suddenly the shadow called her name. She gasped and looked up to that shadow. It wasn’t a monster, instead it was a man. A tall man with scarlet hair. He was half naked with weird marks on both of his arms. He wore red necklace; the necklace had three fangs on the front.

He squatted with one knee and slightly bowed to her. She was utterly shocked. That man gave out his hand for her to hold it. She held his hand hesitatingly but alas she felt calm as the man smiled and squeezed her hand a little.

“From now on, I shall be your guardian.”