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The Golden Gate — Thomas's P.O.V
I arrived at the gates, trying to come up with a plan to sneak in without getting caught.
Just as I was thinking, the gates opened.
Quickly, I hid myself.
I watched as a group of strange-looking men walked out.
From the unwelcoming aura radiating off them, I could sense they were not members of the Light Carven.
The tallest man had a girl slung over his shoulder.
Although she was covered in blood, dirt, and looking dangerously pale, I could tell it was Erica.
"What did they do to her? This looks terrible," I thought grimly.
I waited for them to leave, making sure they weren't being followed before I moved.
When they reached the forest — and seeing they were less than ten — I hid behind the trees, taking them down one by one.
After defeating them, I ran away with the lady.
Under my grip, she felt weightless and cold.
I wondered in horror what kind of treatment she had endured.
I found a safe place where I could heal her wounds and scars.
Just as I finished, she opened her eyes.
I saw terror and fear in them.
Her body shivered as she folded herself into a ball.
"My lady, it's me, Thomas. Don't worry, you're safe now," I said gently.
The moment I spoke my name, her eyes lit up — and she threw herself into my arms.
"Please don't take me back, I'm begging you," she sobbed, tears falling freely from her eyes.
"We won't, my lady."
Just then, a familiar, unwanted voice rang out behind me.
"Good, she didn't go far. A friend of mine has her," the voice said.
I turned to see the culprit standing not far from us — Asher, with an army behind him.
I quickly shielded Lady Erica behind me.
"What are you doing here, Asher?"
"You know why I'm here. You took something that belongs to me. I want her back."
"So it was your men I ambushed... if that's the case — no."
"What the hell? You know you can't win, especially when I came prepared. Hand over the girl and I'll spare you the trouble.
Or better yet — join us. When our master returns, we'll get the glory meant for us.
Don't tell me you've forgotten your roots — where you came from," he said, a sly grin on his face.
"Never," I spat.
"I guessed you'd say that. In that case... brothers, show him no mercy!" Asher commanded, stepping back.
His men charged at me — but before they could reach, the ground suddenly opened up beneath us, swallowing us whole.
The earth sealed up instantly, and everything went black.
---
Azreal's P.O.V
I stood on the balcony, gazing at the endless sky, recalling the days I used to watch her from here.
"I miss her..."
"Master!"
Lyrik's voice called from behind.
Without turning, I replied.
"Any news from Thomas?"
"Not yet, Master. But our spies report that Lady Erica was kidnapped last night.
The scene at the old mansion was brutal."
"And her aunt?" I asked, still staring at the horizon.
"She's safe and sound... with some minor injuries."
"Hmm... interesting."
Just then, Carl came rushing in, panting heavily.
"Master, we have a problem," he said.
"Speak," I commanded, my attention still fixed on the sky.
"Master, Christopher and his men are here. They demand the young lady.
They suspect we took her."
"Hmm..."
I finally turned around and met the faces of my men.
I stayed calm, prepared to watch how things would unfold.
Christopher must think this is the perfect time to deal with me — the only thorn in his side.
Good.
Let's watch the show.
---
Jarel's P.O.V
I sat lazily on my throne, gazing down at the messenger bowing low before me.
"Any news?" I asked.
"Yes, Master. Everything is going according to plan. As we speak, the elders are turning against Azreal."
"Good. And what of Erica? Have you found her?"
"Not yet, Master."
"Make sure you do before anyone else does," I said coldly.
"Yes, Master," the man replied, bowing deeply.
"You may go for now."
"Thank you, Master!"
He bowed even deeper before hurrying away.
Once he was out of sight, I stood by the window, feeling satisfied with today's progress.
"Enjoy my gift, Azreal. This is only the beginning of your troubles.
Once you're out of my way, there will be no one stopping me from claiming my woman. Ha, ha, ha!"
"Master, it seems you're in a good mood today.
Mind if I make it even better?"
A feminine voice rang in my ears — soft and enticing like a spell.
I turned around and saw my mistress, beautifully dressed for the occasion.
"I don't mind at all, baby," I said, grinning.
---
Somewhere in the Dark Forest — Erica's P.O.V
I opened my eyes and found myself in a cozy, warm room.
I looked down — I had been lying on a mat, and Thomas was beside me, still asleep.
"Thomas, Thomas, please wake up! I think we might be in trouble," I said, shaking him lightly.
"Hmm..." he mumbled, still lying lazily.
"Thomas! Wake up!" I urged again, shaking him harder.
"Huh? I'm up... what's happening?"
He sat up, rubbing his sleepy eyes.
"I don't know where we are," I said, my voice trembling slightly.
"Okay, I'm here. I'll do my best to keep you safe," he said.
"Our safety doesn't depend on you alone — we have to work together," I replied, helping him to his feet.
"By the way... help me remove the choker around my neck."
"Yes, my lady," Thomas said, gently unfastening the choker.
"Thank you," I whispered.
"You don't have to be polite with me, my lady. I'm here to serve," he said respectfully.
"Alright, let's find our way out," I said.
But just before we could take a step, the doors opened.
A familiar person entered, carrying a tray covered with dishes.
"It was you who saved us?" I asked, surprised.
"Yes," the person said. "I'm sorry, but you have to stay hidden for a few days.
Your enemies are searching for you — it's not safe yet."
"Okay... thank you, Revenge," I said sincerely.
---