There's no such thing as a free lunch. I can't find a better phrase than this to describe this world. For everything you gain, you lose something of equal value. Just like Newton's Third Law states, for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
At the age of 10, every person is rewarded a Boon, a favor from the gods that follows them throughout their lifetime. A Boon is unique for each individual, and it's impossible to find two Boons that are completely identical. Of course, there can be two people with Boons of fire manipulation, but there are always subtle differences. The temperature, the intensity, the potency of the flame will never be the same. Boons are molded off each person's personality, thoughts, and soul.
Thus, Boons are what makes and breaks a person's future. If you're lucky, you can get a Boon that could help you stand above thousands, but if you're not, you'll end up being the ones slaving away at the bottom. It's always been survival of the fittest. Money and status could get you a head start, but it means nothing in the face of absolute power. The strong stands at the top, and the weak must obey. This is what kind of world it is.
Yet, the gods are not so generous. A favor is meant to be returned, and the gods never forget. There is no escaping, no delaying this rule, and one shouldn't expect to be able to. Just as how every person has a Boon, every person has an Offering. An Offering is the opposite of a Boon, something is taken away from you and never returned. For ordinary people, an Offering may mean forgetting about a childhood pet, losing a favorite stuffed animal, or not being able to taste the spiciness of chilis. Just like how their Boons does not change their lives, their Offerings does not too.
But that is not the case for the strong. In return to wield such strength, the strong must also pay a price. Their Offerings are much deadlier, some even enough to cripple an entire person's future. But there are people who worked against all odds and managed to still rise to the top.
Every child has been told stories about a boy with a Boon that gave him unparalleled swordsmanship but with an Offering that took away his sight. After years of sweat and blood, the boy became a master swordsman, defeating all of his rivals and conquering Dungeons. His story soon became the inspiration of many young passionate hearts that strove to reach the heights of where that boy stood. But how many were able to reach such heights I cannot say.
For a world that revolves around Boons and Offerings, I wouldn't say we've strayed off to the wrong path. People still live their normal lives, and aside from the occasional natural disasters and monster tides, there are very few things to worry about as long as you mind your own business. Those with the strength come together to protect humanity against common enemies and break apart to fight for the spoils. This is human nature after all.
But then, there are a certain group of people that, to say the very least, not normal. These are the people that do not fall into both the strong nor the weak. They are called the Cursed. While it's normal for a child to receive their Boon and Offering at the age of 10, most of the Cursed receive theirs at the age of 3 to 5. Their Boons are extremely powerful, some even say that they can even change the course of humanity. However, their Offerings are so lethal that people don't call them Offerings anymore. They call it a Curse. Most Cursed don't live past the age of 18, so these Boons are unable to fulfill their true potential before their hosts pass away.
It's extremely rare to come across a Cursed, and the majority of people don't even meet one in their entire life. And even if they did, they wouldn't even know because the Cursed have learned to stay away from society and survive alone. That is the only way a Cursed can live longer though in the end it is always a futile effort. Not a single Curse has lived to be over the age of 21.
But there is one Cursed who is intent on being the first to live past the star-crossed number of 21. That would be me. My Boon came to me at the age of 3, and that was when my life turned upside down.
As for my Curse, I don't know if I should say I'm lucky or not. There are Curses that kill their hosts in a year or cripple them for eternity, but my Curse isn't like that. My Curse is different.
My Curse took away my freedom.
———
The Bloody Angel.
I rolled the name around in my mouth and chuckled silently. Whoever thought of that name had my utmost respect for their creativity. The bloody part I could understand, but angel? There was nothing about me virtuous enough to be compared to even a single feather of an angel's wing much less be called one. I was no angel.
I am a tool. People use me to fix their problems, and as a tool, I have no right to complain. I do as I am told, and I make sure I do it well. If they are satisfied with my work, sometimes I am rewarded, but most of the time, I am not. A tool does not need love or praise. It needs only to be maintained enough to function, and that's enough. If the tool breaks, it is thrown away and replaced. It's as simple as that.
I reached up and touched the blood-red cross they had drawn below my right eye. The material had yet to dry, and I quickly removed my hand from my cheek. Checking the mirror, I heaved a small sigh of relief when I saw that the makeup had not been ruined by my careless action. If it had been, the girl who did it would have been punished by my Mistress. If she was lucky, she would be driven out of the family, but if the Mistress was in a bad mood, she would be killed and her body left out in the sewers for the rats.
"My dear boy!" I swung around around at the voice. "Oh my! Look at you. You look stunning!"
"Thank you, Mistress," I murmured quietly.
Knowing it was better not to resist, I let my Mistress caress my face with her fingers. The tip of a ruby-encrusted fingernail traced my jawline and pathed downwards. I didn't dare breathe as it stopped an centimeter from my pulsing artery on the side of my neck. I knew very well that those fingernails were sharp enough to tear out my throat if she so wished to.
"Do you like the outfit I prepared for you, my boy?" My Mistress asked, her breath tickling my ear.
Casting a sidelong glance at the mirror, I nearly didn't recognize myself. The blood-colored rose adorned over my heart filled my nose with a sickly sweet scent of perfume, and the tie that was too tight choked the air out of me. The black and red leather gloves made it difficult for my fingers to move, and it made me feel clumsy and vulnerable. Nevertheless, I gave the woman a smile.
"Of course I do. It's lovely."
"I picked this outfit out specifically for this occasion." My Mistress failed to notice the strain in my smile. "The white compliments your eyes well, don't you think?"
"Mm." I nodded.
My Mistress reached over and straightened my suit jacket. Her fingers smoothed out my shirt, and despite the layers of fabric separating them from my skin, I couldn't help but shiver.
"What are you so nervous about, cute boy?" Her hands further invaded my body, reaching upwards to stroke my chest. "It's not like we haven't done more than this before."
"Nothing, my lady," I answered quickly. "Just thinking that you look beautiful tonight."
"I'll miss that sweet tongue of yours." She tittered happily at my compliment, and taking the chance, I took a step back, distancing myself from those roaming hands. "But I'm sure such a handsome boy like you will fetch a pretty price."
I said nothing as the woman adjusted her crystal earing with one hand. My Mistress was, without a doubt, a beautiful woman, beautiful enough to topple cities with her looks. Hundreds of men would jump at the chance to court her, but they didn't know that beneath that delicate rose was a venomous snake hiding under the petals. I had to learn that the hard way.
"Where do you think you're going?"
I woke with a start and realized my back was to the wall. It was too late to correct my mistake as I watched my Mistress saunter towards me. I could see the faint pink blush on her cheeks, and her nauseating perfume seeped through the air. It take everything out of me to stop myself from gagging.
"I think I'll take one last taste before it's time," she breathed into my ear.
I forced my eyes shut, not willing to meet her gaze. I felt my belt loosen, and the fabric of my tie brushed past my pants leg as it fell to the ground. The hot exhale of my Mistress' breath on my nape made me shudder, and the cold kiss of her jewelry sent a shiver down my spine. She cupped my chin in one hand and lifted my head upwards.
"Open your eyes and look at me," she commanded.
I opened them and found eyes of amber staring back. They broke past my defenses and sucked at my soul. I was trapped like a bug caught under a microscope. I was completely at her mercy. Those eyes were telling me there was no reason to struggle. It was better to succumb to her desires and submit. And so I did. What choice did I have?
"Good boy," my Mistress purred as she felt my body surrender.
Her right hand slid dangerously downward while her left found my forehead. She teasingly twirled the stray strands that had fallen over my face, cooing fond words as she often did.
"You look delicious tonight, my love. My hands can't control themselves. Can you forgive me?"
One of her fingers drew circles along my inner thigh, and I couldn't help but swallow uneasily. Her eyes kept me frozen in place, and I couldn't look away. I was foolish to think that I could escape from her grasp tonight. That was never an option. But I didn't want to do it here.
"I love you so much, my dear!"
With a savage glint in her eyes, my Mistress grabbed the back of my head and pushed my lips to hers. She forced her tongue into my mouth, and she sucked greedily, touching and claiming every part of her servant. There was no love in this kiss. It was the raw and lustful desire to dominate. She knew I was hers, and she knew that I hated it.
I barely registered the cling from my belt as the woman unbuckled and dropped it onto the carpeted floor.
"Lady Jasete!" A voice came from the door.
My Mistress paid no heed. She withdrew her tongue from my mouth and bit down fiercely on my lip. I tasted blood. There was the sound of a zipper coming undone, and I closed my eyes in dread.
"Lady Jasete, please control yourself. It's almost time." The voice came again.
A low growl of displeasure came from the back of my Mistress's throat. She drew away, and a strand of saliva connected our lips as she grinned at me. She took great pleasure in watching my reaction as she picked it up between her fingers and licked it away.
"You're lucky, my love. You got away with just a little taste," she teased.
"Yes, my lady," I whispered.
"Get the boy ready and send him on his way." My Mistress's aura changed drastically as she turned to command the butler. "I expect him to look perfect."
"Of course, my lady."
"I expect a great performance from you, cute boy." My Mistress gave me one last order before she left the room, not even bothering to rearrange her disheveled appearance as she went through the door. Even if someone figured out her particular hobby, there was nothing they would or could do about it. The woman knew that too, so she did what she wanted. This was the power of one of the strongest seduction technique holders in the world.
"Come this way, boy. We need to get you ready."
"Yes, sir." I heaved a silent sigh of relief as I bent down to pick up my discarded belt. I felt a hint of apology to the girl that would have to redo my make up again. With such little time remaining, it would be difficult for her to reach my Mistress's standards. I just hoped that she wouldn't be executed for her transgressions.
---
The next time I saw my Mistress was on the stage. I could hear the quiet murmurs of the guests and the dull clinks of cutlery below me. The lights had been dimmed to anticipate the showing of the final item of the auction. As I waited in the dark, I raised my hand and touched the cool material of the crescent-shaped mask covering half of my face. I didn't quite understand its purpose, but I was told it was to create a feeling of mystery around the infamous Bloody Angel. I simply accepted the explanation as I knew I had no place to complain.
"Now, for tonight's final item! The one that everyone is looking forward to. Yes, you guessed it! He is the one who defeated the tenth ranking Frostsword at Vox Isle. He is the one who brought ruin to the forests of Akeha Wilds. He is the one who killed thousands alone on the waters of Virriden."
A still silence fell in the room as the anticipation was brought to the peak. My breathing hitched as I waited for the words to come.
"Without further delay, I give you the Bloody Angel!"
My vision went white as tens of spotlights turned and shone their dazzling light on my figure. I started to walk forward, keeping each of my steps even and firm just as I had practiced in front of my Mistress. The gazes of the people below followed me as I stopped at the auction room's center. The murmurs had grew louder, and I stood there numbly on display.
"Age 15, height 165 cm. Red eyes, white hair. In excellent health, no bodily injuries. Let the bidding begin at 500 million Marks!"
Immediately, the room burst into action as people rushed to place their bids. The price rocketed upwards; the reputation of the Bloody Angel had spiked all of their interests.
"600 million!"
"750 million!"
"1500 million!"
I looked up sharply as I heard the last number. Someone had doubled the price in an instant. I couldn't pinpoint who it was that had made the bid. Everything was too loud, and the lights made black spots appear in my vision. This outfit was suffocating, and the chaos didn't help. I was painfully aware of the burning of my lower lip where my Mistress had made her mark. Yet, I schooled my features into a passive expression, knowing that I could not show any weakness.
"1500 million by Box Room 5! Are there any more bidders?" the auctioneer called.
"2000 million! A bid from Box Room 6."
There was six different set of eyes on me from above. The Jasete Auction House was located in District 11, one of the most lavish areas in the world. The people who could participate in this auction were all elites of the elites, but someone who could throw out the number 2000 million had to be a Favored. Only a Favored had this much power and the wealth at their disposal.
Four of the six watching me were Favoreds. I could tell by their distinctive auras. With enough experience on the battlefield, anyone could distinguish a Favored from an ordinary Boon holder. The aura a Favored gave off was leagues more refined than their counterpart. The whisper of the wind, the sharpness of the blade, the fiery temper of flames, or the cold stillness of stone were dead giveaways that a person was a Favored. Their understanding of their Boons had transcended a level that normal people could only hope to reach.
"2300 million Marks from Number 54. Are there any more bids?"
Almost immediately in response, an intense pressure came from Box Room 5, stifling the guests on the first floor. There was a slight groan of pain, and I heard something heavy hit the ground. My heart went out for the person who dared to go up against a Favored. I didn't know where the courage came from for him to try to compete with those blessed by fate.
"2500 million Marks." A velvety voice came from Box Room 5. "Who dares to compete with me?"
"2500 million Marks and a Lower Artifact." The opposition came from the room across. "Jester, don't be so hasty. The fun's just begun."
"2500 million Marks and three Lower Artifacts," Jester, the owner of Box Room 5 responded. "The White Clan is really dishing out a fortune to get their hands on the Bloody Angel, are they?"
My heart jumped a beat. The White Clan was a reclusive party that usually didn't interfere with things outside of their district. It was surprising that my Mistress had managed to invite one of them to attend the auction.
"2500 million Marks and one Greater Artifact," the White Clan member said. "We've prepared a fortune to claim the Bloody Angel. I suggest the Jester think twice before opposing us."
"Is that so?" A sinister aura came from Box Room 5 and pulsed outwards. Meeting the Jester's provocation, a pearly-white, gentle aura clashed with the purple one. Their collision sent a shockwave through the room. Wine glasses shattered, and cries erupted as the people on the first floor ran for safety.
Even though I was caught between their standoff, I had been ordered to do nothing, so I could only watch. Security should be enough to ensure the people's safety, but my Mistress were not concerned with the weak. Her focus was on which one of the four Favored would be the victor. Gaining any one of the Favored's support would be massive for her.
"Gentlemen," a woman's voice came from the room to my right, "may I suggest that we fight after the auction? It's unsightly to make such a scene in front of Lady Jasete."
That voice I recognized. She was the Nine-tailed Fox, another seduction technique holder. She probably came here just to spite my Mistress. After losing a battle to me, she never forgave my Mistress. She was perhaps the one person I did not want to win the auction. I didn't look forward to the things she would do if she got her hands on me.
"Thank you, my dear Foxie, for speaking for me." There was a hint of venom hidden in my Mistress's words. "Esteemed Favored ones, please do me a favor and calm yourselves. I'm sure we can settle this peacefully."
"Hmmph." The White Clan member was the first to yield. "Since Lady Jasete has spoken, then as her guests, we should respect her request."
"This isn't over yet, White Clan," Jester hissed.
"Ahem!" The auctioneer nervously cleared his throat and cast a glance at the two rooms. "We shall begin again at 2500 million Marks and one Greater Artifact. Are there any more bids?"
"2500 million Marks and two Greater Artifacts."
"2500 million Marks and three Greater Artifacts."
"2500 million Marks and five Greater Artifacts."
The prices continued to go higher as the three Favored competed against one another. All three came from extraordinary backgrounds, and it was needless to say that each of them had vast seas of resources to support them. But it was impossible that one would go over a certain limit to purchase me. It was just who would hit that limit first was the key.
"2500 million Marks and twelve Greater Artifacts."
The expected voices faltered once the price hit twelve Artifacts. Even for powerhouses like the Jester and the Nine-tailed Fox, twelve was a high number to match. Only large families and clans like the White Clan had the resources to have that many to spare. I turned to the direction of Box Room 2. The White Clan was going all out.
"2500 million Marks and twelve Greater Artifacts going twice! Are there any more takers?"
I heard the Jester let out a noise of dissatisfaction, but he did not call to raise the price. The White Clan had won.
"Does anyone want to compete for this item?"
"2500 million Marks and fifteen Greater Artifacts and one Dungeon Crystal."
I stifled a noise of surprise as a new voice joined the fray. It wasn't just me who was shocked by the ludicrous offer. Everyone was speechless. What was the identity of this fourth Favored? My gaze wandered to the darkness in front of me, and I made out my Mistress' silhouette. Even though I couldn't see her, I knew there would be a smile on her face. This kind of price was something completely out of her expectations. Not even counting the fifteen Greater Artifacts, the single Dungeon Crystal was worth more than anything else.
"2500 million Marks and fifteen Greater Artifacts and one Dungeon Crystal from Box Room 1. Are there any more bidders?" the auctioneer cried, a slight tremble in his voice.
Silence came the rooms. No one could match the price of a Dungeon Crystal. No one was foolish enough do so.
"2500 million Marks, fifteen Greater Artifacts, one Dungeon Crystal going twice!"
"2500 million Marks, fifteen Greater Artifacts, one Dungeon Crystal three times!" The gavel came down, and the sharp bang rang through the hall. "The Bloody Angel sold to the gentleman in Box Room 1. Congratulations!"
---
My thoughts were in a jumble as I was marched down the hallway to the waiting room. The silver jewel-encrusted handcuffs around my wrists jingled at every step. It was a gaudy item, and aside from its aesthetic purposes, it had no use. It would take handcuffs made from Ustil to be able to limit my movements. But I had to wear them as a reminder of my status, a slave to the head of the Jasete family and nothing more.
"My lady and Esteemed Favored one, he is here."
The auctioneer held open the door and gestured with a gloved hand for me to go inside. I went in and greeted my Mistress with a bow. "My lady."
"Boy, this is the man who bought you. Greet him," she ordered.
"Yes, Mistress." I bowed down low at the masked man sitting on the sofa across from my Mistress. I didn't dare make eye contact with the Favored one. Back in the auction hall, his aura had been the most indiscernible. It was weak enough that the other three's aura had completely covered it so that I was unable to notice it. But now, coming closer, I realized how monstrous of a control this man had over it. It was scarily calm like the stillness of a beast before it destroyed everything in its wake. He was not someone to be trifled with.
"It is hard to imagine that the Bloody Angel is a boy this young," the man said.
"I assure you that the boy is more than capable," my Mistress replied.
She waved her hand, and understanding her dismissal, I retreated to the side. I stood a short distance away, adopting a position that did not intrude in their conversation but was also at her beck and call.
"I believe that I did not catch your title." My Mistress took the initiative to pour the man a cup of tea. He received the cup from the woman, but he did not drink from it. The action did not go unnoticed, and I saw a slight frown appear between my Mistress's brow.
"I prefer not to use my title." The man clasped his gloved hands together. "You may call me Dracoff."
"Then, Lord Dracoff, could I be so bold enough to invite you to dinner?"
"I would have to regretfully decline," Dracoff answered. "My sincerest apologies, but I am on a tight schedule this week. When I have time in the future, I will not forget your kind invitation."
"That's quite unfortunate," my Mistress said with a slight pout.
"Now then, if I may be so rude to ask, could we proceed to finish the exchange?" Dracoff suggested.
I could tell that the man had no intention of staying any longer than necessary in this room. He wasn't giving any opportunities for my Mistress to play her tricks. I felt a hint of relief to see that he wasn't the type of men who fell easily for such traps.
"Very well." My Mistress reached behind her neck and unclasped a necklace. Compared to the rest of her elaborate jewelry, this piece was dull and shabby. A simple ring made from iron hung from the end of its string. She put it on the table between them.
A faint feeling of agitation struck me as I saw the ring. I bit the inside of my cheek as I watched the thing binding my freedom leave my Mistress's hand. I knew I had no chance of retrieving it, but regardless the notion to try surfaced in my mind before I pushed it back down.
"This is the Soul Armament," my Mistress explained. "By allowing it to absorb your blood, the ring will recognize you as its master, and the Bloody Angel will be yours."
"This is my payment." Dracoff slid over a black card with his fingers. "2500 million Marks. The access point to where the fifteen Greater Artifacts and Dungeon Crystal is stored inside. Please feel free to confirm everything is there, Lady Jasete."
"Of course I believe in your credibility, Lord Dracoff, but," she reached for the card, "it wouldn't hurt to be careful."
Before she could take the card, the doors to the room slammed open, and a young man strolled through the entrance. Quick as lightning, my Mistress snatched back the ring and hid it in her hand. Dracoff did nothing as he calmly turned his head to look at the newcomer.
"So this is where you two are hiding," the Jester drawled.
He perched on the sofa's arm and draped a lazy arm around my Mistress's shoulder. Immediately, I took a step forward and grabbed the Jester's wrist and pulled him away from her. Even though I had been sold, before the Soul Armament changed hands, Lady Jasete was still my Mistress. I had orders to protect her.
"Please step away from my Mistress, esteemed Favored one," I said neutrally.
"Boy," my Mistress held up a hand, "back down and apologize."
"Yes, Mistress."
I let go and gave the Jester a bow. There was a glint of amusement in the man's eyes as he made a show of drawing his finger over my Mistress's exposed shoulder. He thought that the action would provoke me, but he was embarrassingly wrong. The tip of my lips drew upwards as I saw the discomfort in my Mistress's eyes. Finally, she has a taste of what it feels like.
"What are you doing here, Jester?" Dracoff asked.
"Isn't it obvious?" The Jester pointed a finger at me. "I'm here for him."
"You are stepping over the line," Dracoff warned. "Unless you can offer more than the price I've given, you do not have the right to take him."
"Me? Stepping over the line?" the Jester jeered. "Am I stepping over the line, Lady Jasete?"
My Mistress shook her head meekly as the Jester's aura enveloped her. The Jester was abusing his power to bend the rules, and everyone knew it. But my Mistress chose to tolerate it in hopes of gaining the man's favor. After all, she couldn't afford to make enemies with one of the publicly recognized best assassins.
"See? I'm not stepping over the line, so you better realize who you're dealing with and let me take the boy," the Jester said.
"Are you sure this is what you want to do?" Dracoff asked. I caught a hint of impatience in his voice.
"100% sure." The Jester sauntered behind me and plucked the rose from my suit. He brought it to his nose and inhaled deeply. "The Bloody Angel is mine."
"Is that so?" Dracoff stood up heavily from his seat and approached me. He placed a hand on my right shoulder. "I believe this boy here belongs to me."
"Old man." I felt a clawed hand grab my left shoulder. "Don't be so sure about that."
Dracoff and the Jester unleashed the full extent of their auras. The shackles on my wrists shattered immediately as the opposing powers clashed. With my body as their focal point, a shockwave slashed through the room, reducing the objects into dust.
Their power coursed through my body, and the energy inside of me was sent into a frenzy. Its first instinct was to drive out the foreign forces invading, but I suppressed it down. It was reckless to fight against two Favored and risk offending both, especially when one was going to be my future Master. It was best to stay calm and wait.
"Ugh-!"
My Mistress collapsed to the ground, coughing up blood. Even someone like her who was nearing the levels of the Favored could not withstand the pressure between the battle of two top ranking Favoreds.
"Boy! Save me!" she cried.
There it was. The command was given, and I must obey. I let my aura erupt from my core and forced Dracoff's and the Jester's hands off me. Free from their grasps, I rushed to my Mistress's side and protected her with my own aura. It took a moment before her condition could stabilize, and I lent her my hand to bring her to her feet.
"The Bloody Angel is quite something huh?" the Jester said. "I see why everyone was so intent on getting him."
"Indeed," Dracoff agreed evenly
Both parties had not relented in their battle of strength, and the ground below them creaked and shook. If they continued, the entire auction house would end up collapsing before a victor was decided. I looked to my Mistress for further orders, but I found that she was too shaken to do anything.
"Jester." Dracoff raised his hand and pulled off the black glove he was wearing. "Consider this my last warning to you, leave this place at once."
"Old man! Just because you're strong doesn't mean I can't-" The Jester broke off as his eyes landed on Dracoff's index finger. "That-that ring! You are-!"
"Be gone!" Dracoff's aura soared, and the Jester's eyes widened in fear. The man took a frantic step back and then another. His aura waning rapidly. The Jester shot me one last look of unwillingness before the his form flickered and disappeared. The room stopped trembling, and silence fell over the room as Dracoff covered his hand with his glove once more.
"I apologize for the mess we made." Dracoff turned to face us, an impassive expression on his face. "I will pay for the damages, Lady Jasete. You need not trouble yourself."
"Oh no! It's no trouble at all!" My Mistress finally awoke from her stupor as Dracoff's stony gaze landed on her. "It is my fault for inconveniencing you. I could not ask for you to pay for the damages. Please! I insist!"
"Very well." Dracoff bent over and picked up the card that had fallen to the ground. "Let us complete this transaction then."
My Mistress's head bobbed up and down rapidly as she uncurled her fist. Her palm was bloody from how hard she had tried to keep the ring from leaving her grasp. She knew that if she did not have that ring in the previous exchange, she would have been dead. And now that she was finally parting with it, she couldn't help but hesitate for a moment. I watched the woman carefully.
"Lady Jasete?" Dracoff said.
My Mistress's eyes went hard as she steeled herself and presented the ring to the man.
"The Soul Armament. The Bloody Angel is yours."
My Mistress put the ring in Dracoff's hand and then took the card. She slipped it into her clothes and bowed politely at the man. "If you need anything else, Lord Dracoff, please let me know. The Jasete Family will be honored to provide you with our assistance."
"Thank you, Lady Jasete." Dracoff placed a hand over his chest and returned her bow. "It was a pleasure doing business with you."
Understanding her dismissal, the woman gathered her composure and headed for the exit. When the woman was at the door, I took a step forward and bowed my head. "Thank you for your care these years, Lady Jasete. I won't forget your kindness."
An emotion close to fear flickered past her eyes as the woman left the room. I wondered if she was having second thoughts putting me up to auction. After witnessing the terrifying strength of the Favored, would she regret selling the only thing that could keep her safe?
"Boy."
I turned to the man and bowed my head. "I apologize if I spoke out of turn, Master."
"No, it's fine." My Master pocketed the Soul Armament and straightened his suit. "Let's go. We're leaving this place."
"Understood."
And without a second glance back, I followed my new Master out of the room. My new life started here.
---
I had originally thought we were going to the Teleportation Hub to complete our journey, but based on the direction my Master was going towards, this was the route to the private Tram stations. There were only a few families that had access to the Tram station in District 11, not even the Jasete family had one. Yet, I failed to recall the name Dracoff as any one of them.
"Boy, put this on." Dracoff tossed me a sleek silver bracelet, and I clasped it on my wrist carefully. It was crucial to have a bracelet like this when entering the Tram station. Anyone without it would be recognized as an intruder and blasted to bits the moment they stepped into the facility. Security was essential since the people taking the Trams were all prestigious individuals.
"Welcome, Lord Dracoff. Dinner has been prepared. Please follow me."
A smartly-dressed young man eyed me suspiciously as I followed closely behind my Master. He didn't voice his concern as he saw the bracelet on my wrist, but I could feel his distaste. I didn't blame him. My costume was, to say the least, very eye-catching.
The Tram we boarded was decorated simply, but if one looked closely, the material and placement of the furniture screamed of elegance and luxury. We passed by multiple cabins before we stopped. I had been trying to observe the place that would hint towards my Master's identity, but there was nothing. Dracoff was definitely a careful man.
"Would you like the duck or lamb tonight, my Lord?"
Dracoff sat down in one of the seats and handed his mask to the servant. Then, his attention was drawn to the table as he started to adjust the cutlery. Even though I thought that they had already been placed neatly, he obviously did not find it to be. There was a slight frown of concentration between his brows as he picked up the fork and put it back down.
"Boy, what do you want to eat?"
I was startled by his sudden question, but I quickly replied, "Whatever Master would like to eat of course."
"I asked you for your opinion, not mine," Dracoff said. "Choose."
"My apologies, Master." I felt a drop of cold sweat run down my back as I feared that my answer had angered him. "I'll choose the lamb."
"The lamb, Bekker. Two servings," Dracoff ordered.
"Of course, my Lord." Bekker bowed down deeply and swiftly left the room to prepare the dishes. I watched him leave before turning back to my Master. I stood silently before him. I have not been ordered to do anything, so I did not move.
"Sit down, boy."
"Thank you, Master." I slid into the seat and sunk into the cushioned back. The material was soft but strong, obviously it must have been very expensive. I felt very subconscious sitting directly across from my Master. Most Masters did not allow me to eat at the same table as them, and if they did, it would be either kneeling or standing.
"Do you have a name?" Dracoff laced his fingers together and rested his chin on them. "Continuing to call you boy would be inappropriate."
"Rey, Master." My fingernails dug into my skin as I gripped my hands tightly underneath the table. "But you can call me whatever you want, Master."
"Rey will do. Do you have a last name?"
I shook my head. "None, Master."
"Why not?"
I adjusted my position on the seat uncomfortably as the question resurfaced some bad memories. "I don't remember my last name. When I was taken from my family, I was too young to remember who my parents were."
"I see." Dracoff nodded once to display his understanding. "I'm going to ask you a series of questions, Rey, but I do not expect you to answer all of them. If you feel that you are not ready to tell me, you do not have to answer. Is that understood?"
I looked up sharply in surprise. This was not the treatment I had come to expect. No one, not a single Master, had ever considered my feelings when they were demanding answers. This amount of freedom left me lost, but I nodded regardless.
"First, I apologize for dragging you into my clash with the Jester. Are you hurt anywhere?"
I shook my head promptly. "No, Master. Thank you for asking."
"Rey." Dracoff's voice had grown sharp. "There is one thing I do not tolerate and that is lying. If you don't want to answer, then do not answer. I dislike being lied to. Do you understand me?"
My eyes widened in fear and surprise. He knew. Cringing inwardly, I bowed my head in alarm. "I'm sorry, Master. I just thought that a small injury like this didn't need your concern."
Dracoff let out a sigh and shook his head. "I suppose this couldn't be helped. It was my fault for not making things clear in the first place."
I said nothing as my Master fell silent. I didn't dare disturb his thinking, and I didn't raise my head. In situations like these, it was better to appear submissive in order to not anger the master. Making my Master mad was already a bad start, and I feared that it would get worse.
"This is your Soul Armament, correct?" I heard a rustling of clothes, and I looked up to find the ring dangling from Dracoff's hand.
"Yes, Master. That is my Soul Armament," I confirmed.
"With this in my possession, I can order you to do anything I want, yes?"
A bad feeling in my stomach appeared when he said those words. Nothing good followed that question, but I was obligated to answer.
"Yes. Anything. If you want me to cut off my arm or kill someone, I'll do it. As long as you don't command me to kill myself, anything is acceptable."
"Then, I will give you my first orders," Dracoff said.
Immediately, I went to Dracoff's side and knelt down on one knee. It was crucial to do this. I needed to make them feel like they are in power, to understand that they have absolute control. This was the only way that would make both our lives simple. My Master did not have to fear that I would betray them, and I didn't have to worry about my Master doubting me.
"Please, Master."
"As your Master, I command that one you will not do anything that will hurt me in anyway. Two, you will use everything in your disposal to benefit me. Three, you will not lie and try to deceive me in anyway." Dracoff paused for a moment before he placed a hand on my head. I stiffened at the sudden contact. "And four, if you ever need or want something, you will inform me at once."
"Master?" I whispered in disbelief.
"You heard me. Is that understood?" Dracoff asked.
"Yes, Master!" Even though I had doubts in my heart, I did not hesitate to display my loyalty. It would take time for me to understand my Master's true purpose in his last order, but before then, I would serve him all the same.
"Now let me ask you again," Dracoff waited for me to return to my chair until he continued to speak, "are you hurt anywhere?"
"My left shoulder, Master," I replied truthfully. "The Jester's fingers were laced with poison."
"Tch. I should have expected as much," Dracoff scoffed. "Do you need a healer?"
I shook my head. "That won't be necessary, Master."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, Master." I picked at the skin of my thumb underneath the table uneasily. The first few days of a new Master was always the hardest to cope with. Without a good grasp of their personalities, every step I took had to be with utmost care. "My Boon can deal with it. I'll be healed in less than an hour."
"Ah, that's right." Dracoff nodded to himself. "I was able to witness your incredible healing abilities personally before."
I nodded mechanically, unsure of what to reply. I could feel my Master's gaze on me, but he didn't say anything. I wasn't sure if he was waiting for me to speak, but I was too afraid that I would anger him if I spoke out of turn.
The silence persisted until the appetizers were brought in by the butler from before. There was a small bunch of leafy greens styled immaculately in the middle of a porcelain plate. The man set down one plate in front of my Master and then put one down in front of me. I didn't miss the slight look of disgust he gave me as he retreated from the room.
There was a quiet scraping sound as Dracoff picked up his fork from the table. My eyes followed the path of the utensil as the pronged tips stabbed into the delicate green leaves. The man took a bite, and the tip of his lips curved up gently. Then, he spoke.
"Do you dislike what the chef has prepared? Is that why you do not eat?"
I jolted with a start, and my hands went cold. I quickly shook my head and picked up my fork. "No, Master! Of course not."
"Rey." Dracoff put down his fork and frowned. "You're going to eat with that mask on your face?"
My hand with the fork stopped in midair. At my Master's reminder, I felt all the heat drain my face. I paled and shook my head. "I'm sorry, Master. I forgot."
I cursed myself internally as I reached for the back of my head to undo the knot. I couldn't let my Master think that I was so useless that I even forgot about the mask.
"Bekker," Dracoff called.
The butler returned immediately at his call and bowed his head.
"Take the mask from the boy. Dispose of it."
"Yes, my lord." Bekker held out a gloved hand, and I put the mask in his palm. The man swiftly exited the room, and when I turned my attention to my Master, I realized that he was looking intently at me.
"Master?" I asked tentatively. His eagle-like stare fixed me in my spot, and I didn't even dare to blink.
"It's nothing." Dracoff looked away and picked up his fork again. "Eat."
"Yes." I gingerly reached for the silver fork once more, and this time I was able to get a taste of the salad. It was fresh and light, and the flavors were well-balanced. The chef who prepared this dish definitely had the qualifications to serve a Favored one.
"Your dining manners are very elegant. I'm pleasantly surprised."
My fingers holding onto the fork stiffened. I set down the utensil carefully and looked up at my Master. "Lady Jasete was very particular about my dining etiquette, Master. I learned everything from her."
"Did you like Lady Jasete as a Mistress, Rey?"
"I-" My throat suddenly went tight, and I swallowed quickly. I couldn't lie to him. "She treated me well."
"I see." Dracoff didn't comment any further on my answer nor did he ask any more questions. We dined in silence, and I ate carefully, not daring to slip up anymore than I had. It was difficult maneuvering the fork with my gloves, but I didn't complain. I could feel the sweat pooling up between my fingers and soaking the material.
"Chef Jasnah's lamb is one of the bests," Dracoff said. "I hope you enjoy it."
"Thank you, Master."
Our plates were whisked away, and I gently dabbed my lips with my napkin. The slight burn on my lower lip once again reminded me of the mark my previous Mistress had left behind. It was displeasing that the lady still held some form of influence over me, but I didn't think the scars she left behind would disappear anytime soon. In fact, none of the scars any one of my old Masters left behind ever disappeared.
"The lamb, my lord."
Two fresh new plates were placed onto the table, and immediately I smelled the scent of herbs and fire. The lamb was cooked to perfection, the meat slightly pink and juice glistened from the side. The very fragrance of the dish was able to arouse my appetite and chase away my unpleasant thoughts.
"The Wunett wine as you requested, my lord." The butler poured a glass of red wine and handed it to Dracoff. The man brought the brim to his lips and took a sip.
"Excellent." He sighed in satisfaction and waved the butler away. "Only this caliber of wine can pair with Jasnah's lamb."
"I heard that there were only 500 bottles of Wunett wine in existence, Master," I said.
Dracoff looked at me, and my heart leapt. I had spoken out of turn.
But before I could apologize, my Master spoke, ""You are correct. Did you also learn that from your lady?"
"No, Master," I answered. "I took it upon myself to acquire knowledge from every field I could."
"That is good." Dracoff nodded approvingly. "The desire to learn is an appreciable attitude to have."
"I'll remember that, Master." I felt a little bit lighter from my Master's praise. Finally, I had done something that pleased him. I only had to keep it up, and I would be on his good side.
As we dined, I had the chance to observe my Master quietly. He was a tall man with a slender build in his early twenties. From his voice alone, I would have though he would be someone in his early thirties. But without the mask, I realized that he could be considered considerably attractive. However, I doubted he ever relied on his looks to get his way. There were small wrinkles around the corner of his eyes, giving him a gentle appearance, but his eyes were as sharp as an eagle's. The simple black suit he wore accentuated the stoic composure he kept around him.
"How are you finding the lamb?"
"It's really good, Master. One of the bests I've ever tasted," I replied truthfully.
"So you've tasted something similar before?" Dracoff caught the hidden implication of my second sentence and raised an eyebrow.
I flinched at the expression, but after a short observation, I realized my Master was only intrigued. "One of my previous Masters lived in the 2nd District. I had the opportunity to share a meal with him before."
"The 2nd District?" Dracoff repeated. "I suppose that is why you were familiar with the Tram station."
"Yes." I nodded. "Though we didn't ride on it frequently. He thought that teleportation was faster."
"How many Masters have you had before me, Rey?"
"Huh?" The sudden question left me without words. The conversation had suddenly shifted into a direction where I was hoping we wouldn't go.
"Before me and Lady Jasete, how many times did your Soul Armament change hands?" Dracoff asked again.
"Five times, Master," I said slowly. "You are my seventh Master."
"And you are fifteen years old?" Dracoff moved his knife on the table to the right a centimeter. "That means you change Masters on average every two years."
"The shortest time was a week, and the longest was five years," I answered. "The former was murdered, and the latter traded me for a spot in the 1st District."
"Five years is a long time," Dracoff commented. "Do you still have any attachments to that Master? Or rather did you feel resentment when he abandoned you?"
"No!" I objected immediately and then cringed as I realized how loud I had become. My voice dropped softer. "I don't have any attachments to him. I'm not allowed to."
My Master's expression didn't change at all at my outburst, and I didn't know what to do. We held each other's gaze for a second longer before I looked away. Seeking something to distract me, I picked up my knife and cut into the now-cold meat.
"You are a Cursed, isn't that right, Rey?"
The knife fell from my hand and clanged loudly against the porcelain plate. It took all my willpower to stop my hand from shaking and return the knife back to its original place. I hid my trembling hands into my lap and stared in fear at the white tablecloth that had been stained by my blunder.
"Answer me, Rey. This is an order."
It felt like Death herself was behind me, her arms wrapped around me as tight as iron bands, and her lipless mouth kissing my neck. Her icy fingers pulled me back the more I pushed against her, and I was so cold. An intangible force guided my head upwards, and it pried open my lips.
"Yes," I said. "I am a Cursed."
Those five words took everything out of me, and I collapsed in the chair. I didn't dare look at my Master's expression. Everyone knew that a Cursed was bad luck and dangerous. No one wanted to have any interaction with them. Last time one of my Masters found out, she made my life a living hell. I never wanted it to happen again.
"Rey, look at me please."
With no more energy to resist, I met my Master's eyes. His golden eyes peered into my soul, and I was left defenseless.
"I'm glad to hear that. I'm happy that you are a Cursed."
I stopped breathing. No one, no one had ever said something like this to me. It was either disgust, jeers, or hate that I received. No one has ever told me they were happy. No one.
"Why?" I whispered.
"Because I once had a friend who told me this," Dracoff answered. "Be careful of the cursed ones because they are the ones with nothing else to lose. And I need someone who has nothing else to lose. Will that someone be you?"
I didn't know if I had nothing else to lose, but I didn't know what I had to lose either. But I did know that I am a Cursed, and my Master was the man in front of me.
"Yes, Master. I am."