It was 1914, the outbreak of World War I.
Mark, a young nobleman from a prestigious family, had always been admired for his striking looks, drawing the attention of many girls. But the world was teetering on the brink of war, and there was little room for the fleeting pleasures of romance for a man of his status.
Instead of attending lavish balls or mingling with noble princesses, Mark spent his days training in martial arts, determined to fortify himself. His strength and intellect surpassed those of the other sons from noble families, yet he chose the path of solitude over a life of comfort, much to his mother's dismay. She often wept as Mark refused all arranged marriages, preferring to master combat rather than court love.
In a world embroiled in chaos, where nations collapsed and political allegiances shifted like sand, trust was a luxury few could afford. With war looming over, betrayal, accusations, and assassinations had become the norm. Neighbor turned on neighbor, and the shadow of death loomed over every household.
One stormy day, thunder cracked across the sky as Mark trained at the academy. He received an urgent message: a family servant awaited him at the gates, gravely injured. This was unusual—his family's staff wouldn't visit the academy unless the matter was of utmost importance. Rushing outside, Mark found the servant barely clinging to life, his arm slashed and bleeding profusely. Collapsing at Mark's feet, the man sobbed, his voice trembling,
"My lord... they're all dead. Everyone... your family, the servants... gone."
The servant's face was drained of color, likely from blood loss, but Mark wasted no time. He hurried the man to the academy's infirmary before mounting his horse and galloping through the rain-soaked streets toward his family estate. His heart raced. Could this be true? Could his entire household have been wiped out?
When Mark arrived, the sight confirmed his worst fears. His once-grand residence was a scene of massacre. The blood of servants and family members alike soaked the floors. Mark's parents lay lifeless in the study, their bodies cold and pale. He knelt by his mother's side, tears falling uncontrollably. Grief soon turned to fury, and in his heart, he vowed to destroy those responsible.
— Years Later
Time had passed, but Mark's rage had only deepened. He spent countless hours in the family library, uncovering ancient texts and rituals long forgotten by the world. His loyal servant, Perth, remained by his side, quietly awaiting orders.
"Perth," Mark called out one evening, his voice firm.
"Yes, My Lord," Perth replied without hesitation.
YOU ARE READING
MY GOLDEN BLOOD (END)
Fiksi PenggemarI wrote this story as a bit of a vent for when I was feeling a bit down about My Golden Blood. I thought there might not be another novel I could read. Moreover, even if there is, it will be very disappointing because it must be written in Thai, so...
