After the intense meeting with Karina, Xylia led Ezekiel to a room situated on one of the upper floors of the towering building.
Confusion clouded his mind as he followed her, unsure of her intentions. It wasn't until they arrived at their destination that Xylia finally revealed her purpose.
"This, Ezekiel, is why I wanted you to join us," Xylia's voice carried a hint of excitement and compassion.
She gestured towards the room before them, her eyes filled with hope.
"In this place, your little brother will have the opportunity to lead a healthy life surrounded by children like him."
Ezekiel's confusion transformed into curiosity as he stepped inside the room. What he saw left him momentarily speechless.
The space was transformed into a vibrant haven—a sanctuary designed to provide solace and support for children who shared a similar plight.
Colorful decorations adorned the walls, and toys of all shapes and sizes were scattered across the room. Laughter and playful chatter filled the air, a stark contrast to the darkness that had consumed his life for so long.
The realization dawned on Ezekiel—the Arcane Rebellion wasn't solely focused on battles and vendettas.
They were committed to creating a better world, even for those who were most vulnerable.
A wave of emotions washed over Ezekiel. He had always fought for his brother, seeking a safer and brighter future for him. And here, within the walls of the Arcane Rebellion, he found the possibility of realizing that dream.
A place where his brother, too, could experience the joys of childhood, surrounded by a community that understood and supported their unique circumstances.
Ezekiel's gaze wandered around the room, taking in the laughter and innocent smiles of the children.
He couldn't help but envision a different future, one where Nathan could grow and flourish, unburdened by the shadows that had haunted their lives.
As Xylia's gaze met Ezekiel's, a smile played upon her lips, her eyes filled with a profound warmth.
Nathan, too, reciprocated the gesture, his own innocent smile shining brightly. Ezekiel couldn't help but notice that his brother harbored no fear towards Xylia, despite her fierce warrior appearance.
In fact, there seemed to be an inexplicable fondness between them—a connection that defied explanation.
Xylia, observing his reaction, approached him with a sense of understanding.
"Here, Ezekiel, we provide a safe haven for children like Nathan. We protect them from the trials and dangers posed by your parents and their colleagues," she explained, her voice carrying a mixture of compassion and determination.
"After recent research revealed their significance, they became targets for experimentation. Our mission is to ensure their safety and offer them the support they need."
Ezekiel felt Nathan's small form seeking refuge behind his legs, an instinctive response to the overwhelming presence of unfamiliar faces.
It became clear to him that his brother had rarely ventured outside their confined existence, rarely encountering such a multitude of people in his short life.
Concern etched into Ezekiel's features as he instinctively leaned towards Nathan, intending to comfort and shield him from the overwhelming environment.
Before he could reach him, however, Xylia acted swiftly, her movements fluid and gentle. She knelt beside Nathan, enveloping him in a comforting embrace, her voice filled with reassurance.
"Here, Nathan, you will find many friends to play with. This place is meant for laughter and happiness. You will experience joy like never before."
Ezekiel's frustration simmered as he watched Xylia make promises to his little brother.
The thought of leaving Nathan in the care of others was a daunting prospect, and he couldn't help but feel a surge of protectiveness. Nathan, on the other hand, was torn between confusion and anxiety.
His upbringing had been far from normal, marred by the abuse inflicted upon him by their parents. Sensing his brother's unease, Ezekiel interjected, his voice laced with a mixture of caution and determination.
"You better leave him alone. Don't talk to my brother," Ezekiel's words held an edge of warning as he pulled Nathan into his arms, lifting him gently to meet his gaze. With tender eyes, he sought to reassure his little brother.
"Hey, little one, are you scared? If you are, please tell me. Your big brother would never do anything to hurt you."
Nathan's wide eyes locked with Ezekiel's, his small frame trembling slightly in response to the unfamiliar surroundings. Uncertainty lingered within him, for he had rarely experienced genuine love and protection.
Ezekiel's heart ached at the realization of the trauma Nathan had endured. He was determined to be the unwavering pillar of support his brother needed, the shield against a world that had shown them nothing but cruelty.
Nathan remained silent, his wide eyes reflecting a mix of confusion and apprehension.
Ezekiel's attempt to console him was met with a profound silence, leaving him uncertain of how to proceed. Xylia, observing the interaction, stood up, a flicker of frustration crossing her features.
"Is he not used to going to kindergarten?" Xylia's voice held a tinge of exasperation. "I thought at this age..." She paused, realizing her mistake in assuming Nathan's familiarity with such social settings.
Her frustration quickly transformed into remorse as she recognized the unintended pressure she had inadvertently placed on the
Ezekiel was enraged by Xylia's insensitivity, which had caused Nathan's discomfort. He couldn't shake off the frustration that welled up within him. Clutching Nathan protectively in his arms, he felt a surge of protectiveness and a fierce determination to shield his brother from any harm.
"Enough!" Ezekiel's voice was laced with anger, his tone sharp and cutting. "You've already pushed him too far. Don't you understand? He's been through enough, and I won't let you add to his pain."
Xylia recoiled slightly, taken aback by the intensity of Ezekiel's outburst. Her eyes widened as she grasped the gravity of her misstep and its impact on Nathan. Regret washed over her features, mingling with a sense of guilt.
"I didn't mean to upset him," Xylia muttered, her voice filled with remorse. "I only wanted to show him that he could have a better life here, surrounded by children like him."
Ezekiel's anger subsided slightly, replaced by a mix of frustration and concern. He understood Xylia's intentions, but he couldn't overlook the fact that her approach had only served to overwhelm Nathan further.
" This is too fast !he is not going to stay here !" he said .