Chapter 35: (ch35) the lore of it
She gazed at her mother, her black bob hair falling gracefully around her face, framing her delicate features like a work of art. Her eyes, the colour of ash, sparkle with kindness and wisdom.
With every smile, her lips curve into a gentle arc, radiating warmth and love. Her presence fills the room with a sense of comfort and security, like a beacon of light guiding. She is not just pretty; she is a masterpiece, a symbol of strength and beauty intertwined.
"Oh, my sweetie"
Rin's mother scooped her up, twirling her around in a joyful embrace. As Rin spun through the air, she felt the rush of excitement lifting her legs off the ground, and couldn't help but release a delightful, innocent giggle.
"Mama i'm getting dizzy"
After the playful spin comes to a halt, she gently places Rin back on the ground and tenderly presses a sweet kiss to Rin forehead.
"sorry darling my bad."
The modern interior of the house, with grey as the dominant colour, exudes a sleek and sophisticated atmosphere. The houses walls are painted in varying shades of grey, creating a subtle yet impactful backdrop for the rest of the decor.
The flooring is likely adorned with large format grey tiles or sleek hardwood floors, adding to the contemporary feel.
In the living room, a plush grey sofa sits elegantly against one wall, complemented by accent chairs upholstered in lighter shades of grey or perhaps a pop of color to add contrast. A geometric-patterned grey rug anchors the seating area, tying the room together seamlessly.
A sleek, minimalist coffee table in a matte grey finish adds functionality without detracting from the overall aesthetic.
In the kitchen which they were currently in, you'll find modern grey cabinetry with clean lines and integrated handles, paired with stainless steel appliances for a polished look. The countertops may feature grey quartz or granite with subtle veining, adding depth and texture to the space. Pendant lights with grey metal shades illuminate the island, providing both task and ambient lighting.
In the dining area, a chic grey dining table with upholstered chairs serves as the focal point. The table may feature a sleek glass top or a matte grey finish, accented with metallic elements for added sophistication.
A statement light fixture, perhaps in a brushed nickel or matte black finish, hangs above the table, casting a warm glow over the space.
Throughout the house, pops of color may be introduced through artwork, throw pillows, or decorative accents, adding visual interest and personality to the space. Overall, the modern interior design scheme, with grey as the primary color, creates a harmonious and sophisticated environment that is both stylish and timeless.
"Where's dad?"
While embracing her tightly, she uttered softly, her words flowing with warmth and tenderness.
"He had an important meeting…hes gonna be home soon, "
"Oh"
"Oh dear, i've been working on a project but i should finish it before it's time for bed so I'd thought i'd spend time with you. I was thinking maybe we could go shopping?"
Rin's face lit up with a radiant smile as she eagerly anticipated the day ahead – a shopping excursion with her beloved mother.
"Yeah I'd like that"
As they stepped into the spacious garage, it was a sight to behold—tools neatly arranged, and her brother's car parked in the corner. Rin, clad in comfortable jeans and a t-shirt proudly displaying her clan's symbol, The symbol depicted a sleek black crescent, one side embracing the silhouette of the moon, while the other cradled the contours of planet Earth.This caught her mother's eye. With a warm smile, Rin's mother handed her a snug helmet, tailored just for her.
They were about to embark on a journey on a sleek two-wheeled transport.
A futuristic electric motorbike gleaming in pristine white, with sleek lines that flow seamlessly from front to back. Its minimalist design is accentuated by LED lights that illuminate the frame, giving it a futuristic aura. The electric motor hums quietly, providing powerful yet silent rides. The bike featured advanced technology such as a touchscreen dashboard displaying vital information and customizable ride settings and an inboard AI. With its aerodynamic shape and lightweight construction.
Fast was an understatement
With practised ease, Rin's mother lifted her onto the back seat of the bike, a ritual they had shared countless times. Wrapping her arms securely around her mother, Rin instinctively held on tight, ready for the adventure ahead.
"You ready honey"
Rim spoke with bubbling enthusiasm, her words infused with excitement.
"Yeah!"
As the garage door glided open with a soft hum, the bike eagerly revved up, its engine blending into the ambient sounds of the garage. With a swift release, it surged forward, seamlessly merging onto the sleek, futuristic road. Illuminated by vibrant blue lights marking its borders, the road stretched ahead
"Rin are you alright back there"
"Yeah i'm fine Mama just looking at the view"
Rin turned her gaze to the right, her eyes flicking to the side where automatic robotic machines busily harvested crops. Above her, the sturdy glass domes provided a protective shield against the unforgiving lunar environment. Each section of the land was enclosed within these domes, interconnected by sturdy metal tunnels.
At this moment, they were heading towards the colossal glass dome. If she peered over her mother's shoulder, she could spot it on the horizon. Numerous towering skyscrapers.
Each metal tunnel was guarded by alert soldiers and watchful sentries.
The gates themselves were imposing, with enormous doors capable of sealing shut at either end.
The soldiers halted the Duo riding the bike, but when they laid eyes on Rin's mother, a shift in their demeanour was palpable. Respect and a glimmer of hope radiated from their faces as they recognized her presence.
One of the soldiers spoke took a step forward and bowed
"Saint Mei apologies"
Her mother gave a nod, her face obscured by the helmet, hiding any visible reaction.
Rin grew up with a valuable lesson ingrained in her: to treat everyone with respect, regardless of their position. Whether it was the CEO or the janitor, Rin believed in showing equal respect to all individuals who deserved it.
'shes always drilling that into my head'
She heard her Mother speak
"Rin wanna go fast"
Without a moment's hesitation, she erupted into joyful shouts, her excitement palpable and unrestrained.
"YES!!"
Mei chuckled softly, then asked Rin the question again, encouraging her to shout it out even louder. These moments with her daughter filled Mei's heart with joy.
"I COULDN'T HEAR YOU"
"FASTER MOM!!"
Mei finally gave in hearing her daughter joy making her heart beat faster, she then hit the gas on the motorbike.
"HOLD ON"
The electric bike zipped by, its streamlined aesthetic slicing through the air with the swiftness of a bullet. The powerful hum of its electric engine echoed in the surroundings, creating a thrilling soundtrack to its rapid acceleration. As the bike surged forward at an exhilarating speed, a palpable sense of excitement lingered in the air.
Leaning into the experience, the mother and daughter eagerly embraced the surge of adrenaline, watching the surroundings blur into a kaleidoscope of motion. In that moment, the only thing that mattered was the intoxicating sensation of speed that enveloped their senses.
The mother and daughter both erupted with joyous shouts, their excitement never growing old. It was a moment that always brought them immense happiness.
"WOOOHOO!!"
"WOOHOOOO!!"
She cherished the exhilarating sensation, the rush of speed coursing through her, the sheer thrill of moving swiftly—it brought her an undeniable sense of tranquility.
"You having fun"
"YEAH!"
Mei parked her bike and gently lifted Rin from the back seat, setting her down on the ground. Afterward, Mei removed both Rin's helmet and her own, placing them neatly on the seat of the bike.
They walked for a moment before they entered the sprawling complex of interconnected buildings, gleaming with glass facades and adorned with vibrant signage. As they stepped inside, they were greeted by a bustling atrium, adorned with grand chandeliers and lush greenery. Stretching out before them are countless levels filled with a diverse array of shops, ranging from luxury boutiques to international chains.
The spacious corridors are lined with cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues, creating an immersive experience where shoppers can indulge in everything from gourmet cuisine to blockbuster movies. With its vast size and endless offerings, this mall is not just a shopping destination but a bustling microcosm of urban life.
They embarked on an extended and enjoyable shopping excursion, a venture that would most likely seemed tedious to their father or brother.
"Your father isn't here but i can already hear his complaining"
Mei let out a light-hearted giggle, and her daughter couldn't help but join in, their laughter intertwining in a joyful harmony.
"Brother too"
"Your fathers a saint, and your brother serves in the army, and neither can tolerate spending even an hour in a clothes store…. Seriously"
They walked into the cozy café, laden with bags from their shopping spree at the mall. Settling into their favourite spot, they carefully placed their purchases aside.
As they waited for their drinks, one of them eagerly sipped on a steaming cup of coffee, while the other indulged in the warmth of a creamy hot chocolate accompanied by a delicious brownie. It was easy to distinguish whose order belonged to whom, just by observing their beverage choices.
"mom how did you fall in love with Dad?"
As she delicately savoured her coffee, a gentle flush graced her mother's cheeks as she began to speak.
"He was such a sweet and caring boy. We would always spend time together and we always had such a great time together. One day, he kissed me with such passion, and I felt all warm and fuzzy inside, and that's when I knew I had found my soulmate."
As Rin savored another delectable bite of the warm, gooey brownie, she washed it down with a sip of hot chocolate before continuing her conversation.
"Mom How did you know he was the one?"
"Honey, when you find the one, you'll just know. It's a feeling you can't really describe in words, but you'll feel it deep in your heart. It's an innate sense of peace and unconditional love that you just know this is the person you want to spend the rest of your life with."
But thats so dumb, how would i know?"
"Darling, love isn't always logical. It's a feeling that comes from the heart. You may not always know right away, but you'll know when you find the right one. Just trust me on this."
She let out a soft chuckle in response to Rin's questions, finding amusement in the innocence of Rin's young age, knowing that Rin didn't quite grasp the full complexity of the topic
Whenever anyone caught sight of her mother, their eyes would light up with hope. This infectious positivity extended even to the server who served them their drinks.
People would often hush their conversations and discreetly gesture towards the pair, showing their respect by bowing in their presence…..
well her mothers presence
They zoomed back at the same exhilarating speed as before, pulling up to the house with the garage door eagerly opening to welcome them. As they arrived, a second car, alongside her brother's, caught their attention. It dawned on Rin that her father had made it home.
As they stepped into the house, the irresistible aroma of food enveloped them, tantalizing their senses. Drawn by the delicious scent, they made their way effortlessly to the dining room, where she caught sight of her father and brother seated at the table.
The sight brought a chuckle to her mother's lips as she observed the two men, their faces lit up with grins as they glanced their way.
Her mother spoke:
"You two finished my cooking"
As they all sat together in the dining room, savouring their meal, her father rose from his seat and leaned in to plant a deep, affectionate kiss on her mother's lips.
He spoke:
"Good afternoon darling"
Then, he glanced over at Rin with a warm smile before scooping her up in his arms and spinning her around playfully, eliciting laughter from both of them:
"Hello sunshine"
Her dad stood tall, his frame sturdy and his jawline defined, accentuated by his dark locks. He wore impeccably tailored suits in shades like charcoal grey, which added to his aura of sophistication and command. His attire spoke of refinement and authority, subtly hinting at the power he held.
Right now he was smiling and joking like a idiot
Her brother embraced and greeted their mother warmly before turning his attention to Rin, repeating the gesture with a sibling hug.
He possessed a head of dark, slightly tousled hair that fell a bit longer, complemented by mesmerizing blue eyes that stood out. His physique exuded fitness and muscle tone, showcasing a lean and athletic build.
So when he did hug he overdid it most of the time
"GET OFF YOU BRUTE"
He laughs and hugs her tightly, he hugs her in such a protective way, it would feel like nobody could possibly touch Rin while he's around
"What?! I'm only showing love to my little sister! Don't need to worry about this big brother, and who are you calling a brute?!"
"YOU!! IM CALLING YOU A BRUTE. YOU OGRE GET OFF ME BEFORE I START BITING"
Alan chuckles and tickles her*
"Oh really?! I dare you to bite this handsome big brother right now! Go ahead, try and bite me!"
He continues to tickle her making her laugh uncontrollably before he yelps
"OW, YOU litt-"
Her mother shot them both a stern glance, prompting them to quickly take their seats:
"You two act civilised, at least while you are eating at the table…. And Ryo act your age please"
"SHE BIT M-"
Ryo's father playfully interrupted him, eliciting a humorous reaction from Ryo. It was amusing to witness Ryo glance in Rin's direction and cheekily stick out his tongue at her. The interruption revolved around the topic of age, specifically in anticipation of Rin's upcoming birthday.
"Rin, is there anything you want for your birthday in two days i can't believe you'll be
eleven so soon "
"Not really"
Her brother butted in:
"she just wants money but she's too good hearted to say that"
"SHUT UP BLOCK HEAD!"
Her mother joined in:
"Rin be nice"
Rin adjusted in her seat thinking before she spoke:
"I kindly request that you cease your impertinent remarks regarding my financial affairs. Merely because you arrived prior to me does not confer upon you a superior status….worm."
Her brother looked at Mei in disbelief:
"Are you gonna let her talk to me like that?"
Her mother took a sip of tea before talking
"I'll allow it"
He looked exasperated
They engaged in lively conversation that seemed to stretch on for hours, blending moments of laughter and earnestness. The entire family gathered around, sharing a meal in each other's company.
She looked at her Brother
"Ryo how was work?"
"Long, tiring and stressful. The same as always."
She tilts her head in confusion as she stuffs some food into her mouth
"Why?"
"standing at a tunnel doing nothing but checking IDs gets kind of boring Rin"
Ryo's father gazes at him, a hint of worry etched across his face, as he poses a question filled with genuine concern.:
"Are you still holding that sleep back"
"Yes its getting worse"
Worry etches across her father's face as he lets out a sigh, his gaze shifting from Mei to Rin.
"How about you take two day off for Rin's birthday"
Ryo glances toward his father, his expression tinged with a hint of frustration as he observes his father's beaming smile.
"DAD you are not pulling clan leader status to get me off my job for a couple of days"
"fine i'm ordering you as clan leader to take the days off"
"DAD OUR CITADEL IS DEST-"
Ryo was finally cut off by mother, who found her voice after a moment of silence.
"ENOUGH RYO"
"I should have moved out when i had the chance"
"Yeah yeah you always say that and you're twenty two now"
After chatting a bit longer, they finished tidying up the dishes.
As Rin and Ryo prepared to head upstairs for showers and bedtime, their parents took a moment to have a conversation with them.
Mei spoke first:
"We won't be in today, we have meetings and need to go to the dream realm"
'I've heard about the dream realm in my School, its this dangerous place filled with monsters'
"Okay, be careful"
Rin's parents enveloped her in a warm embrace, showering her with hugs before wishing her a restful night's sleep.
"Goodnight Rin"
After swiftly taking a refreshing shower, she effortlessly sank into the coziness of her bed, and in no time, she drifted into a deep, restful sleep.
****
She awoke abruptly in the dead of night to the faint sounds emanating from downstairs, stirring her from slumber.
"RYO ENOUGH"
She rose from her bed, moving with the ingrained lessons from both her parents and school. As she traversed the room, her steps were executed in a hushed manner. Taking her place at the top of the stairs, she settled in, intent on catching the ongoing conversation in the dining room.
She heard a Younger man's voice:
"Why do you let Valor get away with it? You know they destroyed our citadel in the dream realm and you are Doing nothing!?!"
She heard the voice of a woman:
"If we launch a preemptive strike and kill more people, will that bring back those who were killed before?"
"No but it would show that we can fight back. Valors next plan is to probably wipe us out at the source… so here"
"nothing they shoot at us from earth will ever hit.. The orbital cannons would destroy them"
Rin leaned forward, eager to hear more, but the creaky stairs she was sitting on betrayed her. In a house filled only with hushed conversations, the noise echoed everywhere, prompting the downstairs chatter to abruptly cease. Rin quickly retreated to her bed in silence.
After waiting anxiously for someone to come check on her, she eventually drifted off to sleep in the next few minutes.
******
"Rin wake up"
She heard her brother calling out to her, but she couldn't muster the energy to ask him to leave. All she wanted was some uninterrupted beauty sleep.
"RIN"
She sensed his persistent shaking of her shoulder, but chose to ignore him once more. His repeated attempts were beginning to grate on her nerves, causing annoyance to bubble up within her.
He gently leaned in close to her, his voice a soft murmur as he spoke into her ear, his words meant to entice her:
"I'll tell you where mom hides the cookies if you get up"
She opened her eyes
"Deal, but i wanna hear where she hides them first"
"Top shelf inside one of the pans"
"Damn i was looking close to there yesterday too"
She woke up with a big yawn, stretching her arms until she hit that perfect spot.
"What do you want to do today"
"First, let's grab some breakfast – the one your awesome, fantastic, older, and wiser brother whipped up for you."
"I don't know about the wiser bit"
"Shut up and get changed I'll be down stairs"
"Are they gone?"
"Yeah they left about an hour ago"
As he said that he left her room, leaving her alone to change, she picked some comfy clothes and made her way downstairs, to be greeted by a plate in the living room, her brother was sitting down watching something on the tv as he ate his own food, drinking some coffee as he did
She sat beside him, enjoying the delicious bacon and eggs along with a sandwich, as they watched an absolute classic show together. It was about a boy trapped in ice and freed by siblings, who discovered he can control the main elements and must defeat a fire lord before a comet arrives
"Are you watching without me?"
"Nope just started it"
They spent the entire breakfast eating and watching. As the last episode ended, her brother stood up, took her plate, and spoke.
"Hey, I got you an early birthday present! Can't wait for you to see them"
She headed to the kitchen and pitched in to help him with both putting away the clean dishes and tackling the dirty ones, their practised routine making the task seamless.
Recalling the show they had been engrossed in, she began to speak.
"The acrobatic girl is nice looking"
Her brother glanced over at her with a gentle smile playing on his lips, shaking his head in a fond, amused manner.
She returned to the task at hand, she recalled the information her brother had shared earlier. With eagerness, she climbed onto the countertop and extended her arm toward the pan perched atop the stack. Carefully, she grasped it and lifted it away
With longing anticipation, she swiftly removed the lid from the pan, revealing a sight that instantly filled her with delight: her mother's cookies. They were not just any cookies, but the epitome of deliciousness, evoking memories of warmth, comfort, and pure joy
Her brother came over and gently grabbed the pan of cookies from her hands, teasingly picking out the one with the fewest chocolate chips and handing it to her. He then helped himself to one, sharing a sweet moment together.
She looked over angrily
"You bastard!"
"Takes one to know one"
Refusing to stoop to negotiating with what she deemed an inferior species, she opted for a more direct approach by delivering a swift punch to her brother's stomach. As he recoiled, the cookie he held slipped from his grasp, providing her with the perfect opportunity to seize it and make a dash for it, her brother hot on her heels in pursuit.
"Come here you little rat!"
As they entered the dining room, Rin positioned herself on the opposite side of the table, creating a physical barrier between her and her brother.
"What are you gonna do now blockhead?"
She never saw it coming as her brother suddenly leaped from his position and dashed towards her running across the top of the table. Before she could even process what was happening, she found herself scooped up and whisked away to the couch. There, he unleashed a flurry of tickles, catching her completely off guard.
"Mercy!"
"Nah, no mercy, suffer"
She burst into fits of laughter, screaming and kicking as he tickled her relentlessly. By the time he finally stopped, she was left breathless and utterly exhausted from the sheer joy of it all.
"Alright, lets go were taking my car"
She tumbled off the couch and joined her brother in the garage, where they hopped onto his open hatch four-wheeler.
"Where are we going?"
"you'll have to wait and see"
The vehicle smoothly glided along the periphery of the glass dome, revealing a breathtaking view outside where immense railgun cannons pointed towards the vast expanse of the black sky.
The cannon was designed to obliterate meteors or any menacing creatures that dared to approach.
"I know you heard what we were talking about yesterday"
Rin appeared a tad embarrassed, her cheeks flushing faintly before she finally found her words.
Before she recalled the subject at hand, her tone shifted slightly, becoming tinged with a hint of melancholy as she continued speaking.
"Is it true? Is the citadel destroyed, is that why mom and dad left today"
"Yeah and thats why im taking you here"
As the four-wheeler neared a substantial building that marked the entrance to a military base, it gradually decelerated upon reaching a security checkpoint. Armed guards meticulously inspected the vehicle, verifying credentials and thoroughly examining its cargo.
The soldier looks at her Brother and a hint of realisation crossed his face
"Ryo what are you doing here"
"surprise gift for Rin"
The soldier gave a nod of acknowledgment before speaking into the radio, granting permission for them to enter.
Upon receiving clearance, the vehicle resumed its journey, manoeuvring through successive barriers and checkpoints until it reached its designated destination within the base.
As they stepped out of the car and ventured into the base, it felt as if chaos had erupted. Soldiers dashed in every direction, and those who seemed to hold some authority wore expressions of pure panic.
And they finally made it to a room with nobody inside. It featured a long, narrow shooting lane with partitions between each lane for safety. The walls were lined with soundproofing material to dampen the noise of gunfire.
The Lighting bright and evenly distributed to ensure visibility. The Targets were mounted at the far end of each lane, and there was an electronic systems for target retrieval and scoring.
The floor was covered with a black impact-resistant material to absorb bullet fragments and provide traction. Safety signs and instructions were prominently displayed throughout the room. Additionally, there was a designated area for storing firearms
"Rin, I want to be straightforward with you. Considering how mature you are for your age, it's important for you to know how to defend yourself, and I'm going to teach you that today."
Her brother had moved to the specified area, grabbed a pistol, and entered one of the shooting cubicles, with Rin joining him.
"Now this is not a toy"
"Yeah i know"
"Alright i'm gonna go through everything you need to know so listen to me carefully"
"Okay"
"Alright number one treat all guns like they are loaded"
"Don't point the gun at something you dont wanna kill"
"Be sure of your target and what is beyond it"
Hearing all of this she was handed the gun and she took it she was completely inexperienced… her brother had put her fingers on where they needed to be
"Okay i put a target up ahead, now its important to remember. Insert the magazine the correct way. Pull back the handle until you hear a click, then turn on the safety off."
She gently wrapped her finger around the pistol's trigger, her gaze fixed on the iron sight. With a steady hand, she squeezed the trigger, she couldn't help but feel the jolt run through her wrists, reverberating with the kickback of the recoil. but moments later, the bullet veered off target, missing entirely.
"Yeah your shot wasn't worth shit but that's okay….. Its first your first time"
She deadpaned
"Thanks"
"Okay I'll give you some advice, look at your target"
She concentrated solely on the paper figure, giving it her undivided attention.
"Now focus your mind on only the target"
She directed all her mental energy towards the goal, honing in on it with laser-like focus.
"And the most important step, breath Rin, calm down and breathe"
She paused, inhaling deeply to steady her nerves, her grip tightening on the gun aimed at the paper figure. With each exhale, she found her focus, squeezing the trigger at the precise moment of serene composure.
The bullet stayed on its path with unwavering precision, hitting its target close to dead center in the chest of the paper figure..
She gave the pistol back to her brother who took it
"I did it"
"You did indeed, that was amazing Rin well done, I'm proud of you, hey um Rin, happy early birthday"
He ruffled her hair and then kneeled to her level and handed her something—a beautiful bracelet. Its charm was shaped like half of a moon and the bracelet itselef was leather.
"Ryo you always do this when something wrong is happening… whats happening?"
"Rin i..i-im going to go to sleep today, and im probably not going to wake up"
Rin perks her head up almost instantly at the sound of her brothers sad voice
"You what…?"
she ask concerned she looks startled
"Ryo you aren't going to die right…? You know that… right…?!"
she looks at him seriously
His silence is making her more worried
she gets up and grabs his hand putting it to her cheek. her voice is slightly shaky you can tell how much this means to her:
"Promise me you won't die. You aren't going to, right?"
He seemed ashamed to muster the courage to articulate something of that nature. It was evident that expressing such thoughts weighed heavily on him.
"I promise"
******
Upon reaching home, Ryo who appeared utterly exhausted, with heavy bags sagging beneath his eyes, a clear sign of his weariness. took charge in the kitchen, whipping up a meal for them. However, an undeniable sense of melancholy lingered throughout the house, casting a somber mood. Ryo after eating with her and making a couple of jokes with her… withdrew to his room, and didn't come out
No matter how many times she knocked on the door, tears streaming down her face, pleading for him to unlock it, there was an eerie silence that met her desperate calls – as if the very essence of life had abandoned the space behind that closed door, leaving her in a haunting solitude.
She found herself alone in the vast emptiness of the house, the quietness seemed to echo her loneliness, so she decided to take a soothing shower before retiring to bed early, feeling the weight of being without anyone or anywhere to turn to.
'i want Mom and Dad to come back'
As she nestled into her bed, she gently slipped into the embrace of sleep, holding the delicate bracelet close to her heart.
*******
BOOM
BOOOM
BOOOOOM
She woke abruptly to the sensation of the ground trembling beneath her, jolting her from sleep. Before she could gather her bearings, her father burst into the room, his face etched with worry, and scooped her up. Questions hung on the tip of her tongue, but there was no time as he swiftly ushered her into the back seat of the car. Beside her, her brother sat in slumber next to her, while up front, her mother sat tense beside her father, who was now driving with urgency down an unfamiliar route.
"Mom what's happening"
As her mother glanced at her, she attempted a reassuring smile, but beneath the facade, the unmistakable grip of fear was evident, seeping through the cracks in her expression.
"don't fear my angel, I'll protect you with my life. I'll never let anything or anyone hurt you"
As she glanced skyward, it appeared as though colossal metal pillars were descending from above.
One of them drew steadily nearer, eventually colliding and smashing the glass dome of the section adjacent to where her family was situated.
Once the smoke dissipated, she could make out shapes rising from the ground where the pillar had fallen. These forms weren't human; they were something else entirely, something unsettling.
Her mother spoke first complety shocked:
"How did they get past the cannons?"
"They hit us with an Emp, thats why all the electrics are fried, and why i chose this car"
"Anvil, spoke to me about this, how he was developing this kinda tech, i didn't think he would use it against us"
Her gaze intensified as the contorted figures in the distance began to stir, dispersing in every direction like a relentless wave of impending doom.
The sound of her voice quieted both of her parents, filling the car with a serene hush.
"uncle did this?"
"Rin right now, we are getting you and your brother to safety"
'why is she not mentioning themselves'
"What about you?"
Mei starts to tear up but holds it together to be strong for the girl
"I..I'll be okay my angel. Please, don't worry yourself. Make sure you get on the ship. I promise I'll join you as soon as possible."
As they continued their journey by car, they eventually arrived at a cliffside where she Rin saw a peculiar sight: a hole nestled within the rugged terrain. This opening was concealed by a sturdy bunker-style door, flanked by vigilant guards and automated turrets.
One of the many guard approached the car and spoke:
"Sir…. Madam….we will hold this position as long as possible, get your kids inside and on the rocket"
'rocket?'
Her father gave a nod of acknowledgment to the soldier before steering his car into the bunker, whereupon the colossal door sealed shut behind them with a resounding thud.
As the family car pressed on a little further, it finally came to a halt in front of a scene that would forever be etched in Rin's memory: a colossal rocket. Rin barely had a moment to take it all in before her mother scooped her up and bolted. The rush was like nothing Rin had ever felt before – the sheer velocity left her breathless. Before she knew it, she found herself inside the rocket, deposited there by her mother before she could fully grasp what was happening.
Suddenly, her father emerged beside them, cradling her brother in his arms as he slept peacefully.
"Rin"
Her mother was calling her
"Rin look at me"
She finally saw her mother form, tears were falling down her cheek
"I love you so much Rin okay, promise me you'll take care of your brother"
She found herself utterly perplexed, with a creeping sense of unease beginning to take hold.
"I…promise"
Mei knelt down to Rin's eye level, gently pulling her into an embrace. With tender strokes, she ran her hand through her daughter's tousled hair, comforting her in her confusion.
"Go to your father hes with your brother further inside, goodbye Rin. I love you so much, dont ever forget that"
"I love you too mama"
She was gently released from the comforting embrace and navigated her way through the rocket's metallic, sterile corridors, feeling a bit disoriented amidst the white walls. Eventually, she spotted her father in the medical section, carefully placing her brother onto a gurney.
Upon catching sight of his daughter, her father promptly exited the room, leaving her brother inside. The entrance to the room was obstructed by a substantial pane of thick glass.
After her dad closed the door, he knelt down right in front of her holding both of her arms and looking into her eyes
"Rin i know your confused right now but remember three things for me please"
"Yeah…sure dad"
"Dont trust valor"
"Don't go into the room with your brother it isn't safe…..the next one is-"
Once more, the earth beneath them quaked, sending shivers through her body as echoes of gunfire reverberated in the distance.
"Rin, if your brother starts to move in a Weird way, or he starts to change"
He looked extremely guilty of what he was about to say next
"press this button….it…it..will make him feel better"
As she glanced at the button, she noticed its vivid green hue, adorned with the inscription "air lock." However, the meaning behind those words eluded her, leaving her perplexed.
Her father gently cradled her head in his hands before planting a tender kiss on her forehead. It was a gesture filled with love and warmth, a silent reassurance of his affection for her.
"I love you..goodbye Rin"
Before she could even muster a protest, her father vanished from sight. Sensing the rocket's subtle vibrations, she swiftly navigated the interior, locating a comfortable seat and a sleek control panel that had a countdown and a destination.
The destination….. Earth
She fiddled with the buckles for a moment, adjusting them until they felt just right, then fastened them with a satisfying click.
As the countdown reached zero, Rin felt her heart race.
The engines roared to life, vibrating the entire spacecraft. With a jolt, she was pressed back into her seat as the rocket lifted off from the dusty surface of the moon. Looking at the control panel it showed camera footage of the lunar landscape shrinking into the distance but before it was replaced by the vastness of space.
a surreal sight unfolded before her eyes—a colossal, blazing orb, devouring the section of the moon she had been sent into the cosmos from.
The enormity of the fiery spectacle left her in silence,
As she gazed upon the image, memories of her parents flooded her mind, stirring up a whirlwind of emotions. Unable to contain the rush of feelings, she screamed, cried, and shouted at the top of her lungs, overwhelmed by the intensity of it all.
"MOOOOM!!!
DAAAAAD!!!.....
NOOOOOOOO!"
"AAAHHHHHH"
She found herself gasping for air, her thoughts becoming a chaotic whirlwind. With each passing moment, her breaths grew shallower, and the edges of her vision began to blur into darkness the last thing she saw on the terminal was the time it took to reach destination
3 days left
She wasn't even aware that she had blacked out until her head drooped limply.
******
As she awoke, she found herself gasping for air, struggling to breathe. With trembling hands, she unbuckled herself from the seat and slowly rose to her feet, feeling too weak to stand upright for a second
She didn't want to think about her parents right now
After some time, she strolled over to the control panel and discovered the duration it had taken to reach the destination, noting the written number displayed on the screen.
One day left
She was unconscious for a period of two days. During that time, she was completely unaware of her surroundings.
'what an amazing birthday'
As she navigated the spacecraft, the simulated gravity system ensured she remained grounded, preventing any chance of weightlessness.
Not too far from where she had initially been, she stumbled upon a suitcase brimming with essentials – canned food and other crucial items were neatly packed inside.
'might as well, im hungry as hell'
As she arranged her belongings on the control panel, she stumbled upon a setting labeled "artificial intelligence," sparking an intriguing idea in her mind.
"Computer, turn back"
An artificial female voice spoke back to her
"Command denied, voice not recognised"
She sighed
"Computer, do you think my parents are alive?"
"From the video surveillance i have viewed, most likely they are deceased"
"Oh"
"...."
"Hey um computer…hows my brother?"
"Sensors indicate movement"
She fell into a hush, pausing for a moment to absorb the weight of those words before rushing to check if her brother had stirred from his slumber.
As she approached the sturdy glass door, mere moments from reaching it, she couldn't resist the urge to peer through it, curious about what statys her brother was in
She found herself perplexed by what lay before her. Her brother exhibited involuntary twitches and movements, yet his appearance retained the serene tranquility of someone peacefully asleep.
She looked down at the green button
"Computer what does air lock mean"
"air lock meaning: a compartment with controlled pressure and parallel sets of doors, to permit movement between areas at different pressures."
'that doesn't help'
Bang
BANG
As she glanced upward, she noticed his body convulsing with increasing intensity, until one of his arms contorted in such a grotesque manner that Rin felt the urge to vomit.
"Computer whats happening!?!?"
"Current subject in medbay is beginning to turn"
"Turn?"
"Computer what will happen if i push this button"
.
.
.
"Subject will be ejected into space"
She looked back at her brother body moving in weird way
"But…he.. promised"
As she wept, she leaned her head against the cool glass, her gaze fixed downwards. Tears streamed from her eyes, splashing onto the floor below.
"warning warning warning transformation has fully completed"
The warning had lifted her gaze, she was met with a sight that didn't match her expectations: it wasn't her brother standing before her.
Standing before her was a peculiar amalgamation of sinew and skeletal structure, its piercing blue eyes fixated on her through the glass barrier, as if studying her with an intense curiosity.
"Those eyes"
The monstrous creature extended a gnarled bone claw, slamming it against the glass with a deafening screech.
The ai spoke again
"Glass integrity failing 60% recommend pressing the button"
Thump….thump…..CRACK
"YOU PROMISED, YOU PROMISED….YOU…not to die ….i…..i.. can't"
"Glass integrity failing 40% recommend pressing the button"
"NO! I WONT, I WONT DO THAT TO MY BROTHER NOW SHUT UP"
Once more, those piercing blue eyes fixated on her, relentlessly pounding against the fragile barrier unable to contain the monstrous terror within.
"Glass integrity failing 20% Rin, press the button. He would want you to survive"
Rin hesitantly extends her hand towards the button, her fingers trembling as they hover over it. With a heavy heart, they press down, her eyes closing briefly with tears as she feel the weight of her decision.
The soft click of the button echoes in the room, sealing the fate of her brother. her heart shattered into a million pieces, but she pressed it, knowing it was the kindest act she could offer.
the air lock doors creaked open into the void of space, a sudden gust of vacuum pulled at everything within reach. The monstrous creature, its tendrils flailing wildly, struggled against the relentless force, its roars drowned out by the deafening silence of space. With each passing moment, the creature's form distorted, limbs stretching as it was gradually sucked out into the cold, unforgiving expanse beyond.
Unable to shed more tears, she found herself in a state of profound loss, stripped of everything she held dear. Reduced to a mere spectator, she curled up into a ball, pressing her back against the cold glass door, a palpable emptiness enveloping her.
"Rin?"
"..."
"Rin?"
"..."
"Rin?"
"LEAVE ME ALONE!!!"
"..."
*****
As the rocket hurtled through the vast expanse of space, its sleek exterior glistened under the distant stars. Inside, a lone passenger, Rin, sat in her seat all the buckels holding her in place. The hum of the engines reverberated through the small cabin as she monitored the instruments with unwavering focus.
As the rocket descended towards Earth, Rin felt a jolt rippling through the vessel. Alarms blared, and warning lights flashed as a section of the rocket's exterior detached, revealing the raw, turbulent atmosphere of the planet below. Rins heart raced as she braced herself for the upcoming descent.
With each passing moment, the atmosphere grew thicker, buffeting the rocket with increasing force.
The once-smooth ride became a tumultuous rollercoaster, shaking Rin to her core. Through the viewport, she could see flashes of lightning illuminating the dark clouds below, casting an eerie glow over the landscape.
Suddenly, the rocket plunged into a massive thunderstorm, and Rin felt a surge of adrenaline course through her veins. Rain lashed against the hull, and the roar of thunder echoed through the cabin. Despite the chaos surrounding her, Rin remained sum what calm as she heard the Ai helping her land.
But as the storm intensified, the situation became dire. The rocket's systems began to falter, and the Ai fought against the uncontrollable descent. With a deafening crash, the rocket slammed into the Earth's surface, sending shockwaves rippling through the surrounding area.
As the dust settled, Rin found herself dazed but miraculously unharmed.
Slowly, she unbuckled herself from her seat and surveyed the wreckage around her. To her astonishment, the rocket had crashed into the roof of a large house.
With a sense of relief flooding over her, Rin stumbled out of the wreckage,
Suddenly, a rough voice interrupted the silence as someone forcefully kicked her to the ground.
"So valor wasn't lying. There really was a lunar heiress coming to Earth"
Rin heard a chuckle just before a sudden impact knocked the wind out of her, causing her to wince and struggle to catch her breath.
"They really are paying a pretty penny to have your head"
As she lifted her gaze, she spotted an older man clad in military attire. His weathered face bore the marks of time, his appearance a horrible disfugured one
The room grew dimmer until sudden flashes of lightning pierced through the hole in the ceiling, casting eerie shadows that accentuated Rin's fear. With each flicker, the scar and the grey eye of the approaching man became more menacing, sending shivers down her spine.
The guy reached out and seized her leg, hurling her forcefully against the wall. The collision sent her head smacking against it, leaving her feeling disoriented and dizzy.
As she rose swiftly, still feeling the sway of dizziness, the guy aimed a punch her way. But in that moment, Rin's mind flashed back to the invaluable lessons her parents had imparted. With instinct guiding her, she swiftly retaliated, delivering a well-placed kick between his legs.
He let out a pained groan before casting her a glare filled with unbridled fury. The raging storm outside only added to the chaos of the moment.
"YOURE DEAD YOU F#CK"
As she attempted to evade yet another blow from him, she underestimated its speed, leaving her vulnerable as it struck her squarely in the face, sending her tumbling to the ground.
Just as she was beginning to regain her composure, she suddenly sensed a pair of hands encircling her throat. Instantly, a surge of pressure gripped her, sending waves of panic coursing through her body.
As she felt hands grip her throat and slam her against the wall, her thoughts began to blur. Despite her frantic struggles and kicks, she couldn't break free to reach the safety of the ground and draw in a breath.
"Plea-se…let..go"
"Shhh just go to sleep"
"No…no…. please"
She was desperately racking her brain to find a solution, realizing that if she didn't act soon, it could cost her life. Her hands flailed about in a panic, desperately trying to push him away until one of them finally located the holster.
Suddenly, she found herself enveloped in the echo of her brother's voice, as though he were right there beside her, his words resonating in the very air of the room.
*Pull the handle till you hear a click*
As the pressure tightened around her throat, strange bursts of color danced before her eyes. With nimble fingers, she managed to discreetly unclip the pistol from his holster, his attention elsewhere.
However, wrestling with the slide proved challenging with just one hand. Desperate, she pressed the pistol against her thigh, leveraging it to manipulate the mechanism, striving to arm it against the looming threat.
"JUST DIE ALREADY!"
Click
*Turn the safety off*
As her brother's words penetrated her mind, her frantic thoughts raced alongside the movement of her trembling finger, fumbling to locate and deactivate the safety latch on the pistol.
Click
In that critical moment, she knew survival was paramount.
With adrenaline coursing through her veins, she pressed the pistol against his side and squeezed the trigger three times. The searing pain forced him to release his grip on her neck, and she collapsed to the ground, gasping for air, as the assailant tumbled infront of her.
Despite his grievous wounds, the man clung to life, unleashing curses at her as he dragged himself nearer, a knife clutched tightly in his hand.
The nearby lightning illuminated his blood-smeared visage, prompting her to shut her eyes tightly, only to be greeted by the echo of her brother's voice once more.
*the most important step, breath Rin, calm down and breathe*
She took a deep breath and heard another bit of advice
*look at your target*
She concentrated solely on the man, giving him her undivided attention.
*Now focus your mind on only the target*
As Rin held the gun, her focus narrowed on his head. Without flinching, she pulled the trigger, feeling the recoil jolt through her hand. The man had no chance to respond as the bullet found its mark. With heavy breaths, she sat up, the tension slowly easing from her body.
She heard him again
*Rin well done, I'm proud of you, hey Rin, happy birthday*
*Wake up Rin*
*******
*RIN….RIN WAKE UP*
*RIN!!!*
As her consciousness slowly returned, fragments of her younger self flooded her mind, awakening memories long tucked away. With a sudden jolt, her eyes sprang open to the world around her. Sunny, with urgency in his actions, was administering mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, bringing her back from the brink.
Sunless was staring into her eyes deeply, when she woke up. He was relieved to see that Rin was actually alive. Now that the shock has passed, they are both breathing heavily. After a few seconds, he wraps his arms around her. Rin feels the warmth and comfort of this. After a few seconds, he speaks
He sounds breathless and relieved:
"You are Okay"
"Im okay"
Sunless strokes her hair and pulls her even closer
"Good... I didn't want to lose you."
"Thanks for saving me…again"
Sunny chuckles
"It seems to be my hobby to save you. You are worth saving though"
Sunless hugs her tightly to his chest and closes his eyes
"dont go all soft on me"
As she gazed back, a vast stretch of shadowy terrain loomed, ascending beyond the incline of the massive crater. At its peak stood a formidable city wall crafted from sleek, gray stone, casting its imposing silhouette over the gaping depths of the abyss. Despite its age, the structure exuded an aura of enduring strength, seemingly capable of braving the relentless force of the murky depths for countless millennia.
They had arrived at their destination—the fabled human stronghold.
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
Dashkins74
Dashkins74 The lore has been released! If you spot any mistakes, feel free to comment on them, and they'll be promptly addressed. I hope you enjoy this chapter. Also, feel free to leave more comments—I love engaging and responding to them!
Weekly Power Status
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