Lila's Pov
In the clustered town of Irela where families struggle to meet their ends, citizens shuffle their feet in trepidation, fully acknowledging the harsh reality that their species was the most contemptible out of all the races - werewolves, that can swipe out anyone with their strength, vampires, that can not only drain species dry, but also compel people to follow without question, angels, witches, warlocks and demons. Whilst fate had blessed all the following kinds with admirable abilities, humans, us, received nothing. It was probably the laughing stock of the millenia.
However, we didn't complain or mutter insults under our breaths since the "supernaturals" have an uncanny ability to eavesdrop on private conversations and would not hesitate to exterminate us and our family. So, to secure our fate, humans have been working as slaves to any type of "supernaturals" at the age of 18 and could be excused at 30 if we haven't died yet. Hilariously, it was the only thing that they agreed on - humans are worthless.
"Watch where you are going kiddo," an old drunken sot bumped his huge waist into my slim figure.
I sighed, shaking my head, whilst I traipsed to the bakery with only a few pennies in my hand. Did I mention that children from the ages 12 - 18 must work in a part time job to supply for their family. Well, yes, that's a fact and I had to work in a restaurant that excluded an aura of neglect. My boss never cared about it and the only thing he enjoyed was torturing us with knives endlessly before paying us 5 pence a week. I had already saved up a lot and now, I am in charge of bringing the food on to the table.
"May I please have 2 of those big loaves of bread?" I asked the shopkeeper.
"Well, there are 5 pence each," the bakery boy replied.
Immediately, my heart sunk into a deep hole. Another day without a food and we would all starve to death. I could not let that happen to my 10 year old brother, Thomas, so I tried to mask my emotions with a cheerful, optimistic clone.
"Well, I am sorry, but I only have 5 pence. Can you please donate one for free. My family and I hadn't eaten for 3 meals. Please," I beseeched him with all my might, trying to use the trick of pity to let him donate one.
"Well," the bakery boy trailed off with a baffled expression. I knew he was having a debate internally and I must persuade him.
"Would you feel better knowing that you saved a family of four from a certain death. Every life is worth saving and all you are giving is a piece of bread worth 5 pence. Please," I pleaded him one last go, knowing that if he didn't agree, my family would die from the constant starvation.
"Well, my lady. Looks like you have terrific acting skills and I will reward you for that."
He tossed me another piece of bread and I instantly drooled from its warm, milkery scent.
"Thank you! Thank you!" I repeated non stop as I exited the bakery.
I did not miss the smile he gave me and it sent non-existing butterflies in my stomach.
My house, tucked away on the outskirts of the city, serves as a constant reminder of our meager lives. The walls bore the scars of years of neglect, and the furniture had probably seen better days. Nevertheless, it was our home and I was grateful that I was not living like those homeless people on the street.
"Mum! Dad! I'm home!" I shouted as I banged in from the front door.
My sweet and lovely brother greeted me with a warm hug and I was instantly puzzled by his act of kindness.
"Tommy? What's up?" I asked, still maintaining the cheerful face that was on from the bakery.
"Dad says that we may earn tons of money soon," he grinned with a colossal smile plastered on his youthful face.
My expression crumbled like a fragile sandcastle on the shore as I absorbed that news. I knew exactly what my father was talking about - the auction. Remember how I explained that by the age of 18 - 30, humans must dedicate their lives to their master and would succumb to whatever their master says. My birthday, was in one week, and I would be collected to the auction tomorrow where any "supernaturals" can participate.
"Tommy," I began with a sternful face, "Listen to me now. When sissy is gone, you must step up to provide all the financial needs of the family."
"Why would sissy be gone?" Tommy asked with a fearful expression.
"Sissy will disappear for 12 years. During those 12, you can not contact me. Got it?" I repeated with a anxious expression.
"I got it," Tommy replied with a toothy grin.
Internally, my heart melted. I didn't really value my deplorable existence on the stupid planet but I would do anything for my family. I will survive all forms of torture to them. That's how loyal I am.
"Lils," my dad stepped into the kitchen, "I want to talk to you in private."
"Ok," I nodded, knowing what sort of conversation it would be, "Mum! Dinner's ready. Make sure to save some for the rest of tomorrow!"
My mother came rushing down the stairs.
"Oh Lila," she cried while cupping my face into her hand, "I will miss you so so much."
"Mum," I exclaimed, "It's fine. Trust me. Spend the money wisely OK?"
"Yes I will," my mother promised.
"My daughter," my father began, "This upcoming 12 years of your life will be your worst. Listen to the supernaturals. Make sure to not disobey them or mutter nasty comments about them. These things can cost your life. "
"Yes, father," I sighed with a bored look.
"When I was your age, I was given to a witch. That's the easiest as the hardest job they need you to do is to supply them ingredients for their potion and spells. Cross your fingers you will get them. K?" he informed.
"And let's hope fate will be kind by not blessing you with a demon. God those are the worst."
I knew exactly what a demon was and what horrors they would bring. A demon has the power of practically all supernaturals. God, please don't gift me with them.
After I ate my tiny piece of bread while savouring its flavour in my tongue, I heaved myself up trudged up the stairs. When I got ready, I did not forget to do my prayer to God, wishing that I would get fortunate for tomorrow. With that being my last thought, I drifted off to sleep.
My Dream:
I found myself laying on the damp, shivering ground in a realm of darkness.. Sinister trees with gnarled branches loomed, strange creatures skittered, and an eerie green sky cast an ominous glow. Whispers filled the air, and a putrid stench clung to her surroundings. It was a terrifying, surreal land with no escape.
Suddenly, a voice jolted me from my observation.
"You are going to be mine soon," the voice whispered.
It wasn't a normal voice. It was a chilling abyss, a whisper dripping with malevolence and inhuman cadence. It could shift from an deceptive, inescapable whisper to a thunderous, ear-splitting roar, leaving terror in its wake. It was the embodiment of pure fear.
Shivers crawled up my spine as my head darted up to down and from left to right. I was scared, that was a fact and I was prepared to face any obstacles thrown at my way.
"You think you can beat me?" the voice taunted.
That was exactly what I was thinking. How I mere human can beat a terrifying creature. What creature - I have no clue.
"See you soon, mea dea. "(My goddess)
With that, I awoke from my nightmare, frantically scanning my bedroom.
"It's okay," I whispered to myself, trying to calm my racing heart.
But how could I find calmness when today was the day of my auction?
"Mum!" I called out, my voice carrying the weight of my anxiety. I wouldn't be surprised if the whole house shook.
My wonderful mother, who had given her all to raise me for 18 years, appeared at my door.
"I need help getting dressed," I explained urgently.
She raised an eyebrow, her expression amused.
"To make an impression on the 'supernaturals' so I won't end up with a pet master."
If no one bid for me, I would be entrusted to a pet master, and believe me, that was a horrifying prospect.
"Alright," my mother sighed, realizing it would be the last time she'd choose my outfit.
A wave of sorrow washed over me as the reality of the situation sunk in. Today would mark the last time I'd see my family. Hands were shaking constantly whether I was stuffing my inadequate piece of bread in my mouth or even just hugging my only rock in this world.
"Sissy!" My brother cried as he darted across the room, his hands tightened upon my legs and not letting go.
"Tommy. I promise you and will come back to you. That's a promise," I vowed with all my life.
The soldiers appeared abruptly, emerging from the shadows like a disciplined, formidable force. Their eyes held a steely determination, reflecting an unwavering commitment to their mission. Strapped to their bodies were an array of weapons and equipment, a stark reminder of their preparedness for any situation.
Their movements were synchronized and precise, a testament to their rigorous training and discipline. With each step, they exuded an aura of controlled power, as though they were a force of nature to be reckoned with. Instantly, the citizens of Irela cowered in fear, as though they were the ones who would have to confront this overwhelming display of authority.
But I knew it was me—the soldiers were here to sever me from my last thread of hope, my family, and thrust me into a place that reeked of cruelty.
My eyes closed involuntarily as I envisioned my living conditions, the horrors of servitude under a master. It was all I could think about—the wretched life I was about to face in a place filled with extravagance and wealth that I could never touch.
"Lila Davies," a soldier commanded, their voice dripping with condescension.
My mother's small hand reached for mine, a gesture of hope and unwavering loyalty.
"It's alright. I love you," I managed to smile, a bittersweet expression as I prepared to leave them behind.
Taking small steps toward the center of town, my mind raced. Would I end up with a master who cared, or would I be at the mercy of a blood-sucking, remorseless creature? Would I endure torturous activities until my mind and body were broken? Only time would tell, and I dreaded the moments ahead.
As I stood on the podium, I turned to look at my family. Tears streamed down my face, dampening my collar. In a few minutes, I would be parted from them, and the uncertainty of my fate loomed like a relentless storm.
"Come in," a soldier ordered as a carriage came racing toward our group.
I dared not to meet their gaze, well aware from my past lessons: "Never, under any circumstances, make eye contact with your superior, for it could lead to dire consequences."
My face remained firmly fixed toward the ground, my fear of the unknown and the consequences of disobedience outweighing any curiosity that I have regarding the soldiers - like what species. The solemnity of the moment hung in the air, and I couldn't help but wonder what awaited me in the auction.
The ride to the pet master was long and no one made any eye contact with me. It was fine as I was not interested to strike up any conversation with "family snatchers." Suddenly, the soldier next to me turned pale, a ghostly pale and the temperature degree plunged. Now, the realisation hit me as I remembered my education. It was a vampire.
"Right," I tried to persuade myself, "He won't drink from me. It's fine."
"Get out," the vampire snarled showing its fangs.
I gulped as trepidation raced in my veins.
"W-what?" I exclaimed, why would I get out now?
"You dare talk back to your superiors. I suppose a punishment is needed. Let me drink from you," the soldier sneered, his voice dripping with malicious intent.
My legs instantly turned into jelly as I struggled to evade the clutches of this malevolent creature. His fangs gleamed with a sinister sharpness as he advanced, and any lingering threads of hope snapped like brittle twigs. With my heart pounding in my chest, I closed my eyes, resigning myself to a defenseless posture, waiting for the inevitable embrace of death.
"Please someone," I begged in my mind, "Save me."