Shivani: Of Power And Strength

Chapter 1: Rebirth

Life was short, but in the most important days, life can seem longer than one could ever imagine. It can make days seem years, seconds feel like minutes and minutes seem like days. However, in this case, hours seemed like seconds.

From every corner of the Sacred Immortal World came the signs that the end was coming. The once alluring lands were no more than ashes, and charcoals. The air was heavy with the smell of burnt flesh. The thick smoke hung in a haze that partially covered the giant bloody sun. The place was now a colossal graveyard of all Immortal Beings. Their bodies laid among dandelions and peonies as their souls had long departed to walk with their ancestors.

Even the great ocean started evaporating at a rapid speed due to the magnitude of the sun's solar radiations. The skies were also barren. No winged creatures flew or sang as the oppressive heat shone down like the breath of hell.

oooOooo

Somewhere in an underground arena, the Imperial Family gathered to discuss whoever was behind the terrible apocalypse.

"It has been exactly twelve hours already! Father, whether you like it or not, I will go and avenge mother! I am already strong enough to..."

"Atrocious!" a baritone voice cut whatever he had to say, "you are the only heir to my throne, and I will not endanger your life by sending you out there!"

Upon hearing this, the third occupant in the room immediately snapped his head towards his Emperor. "Calm down, Your Majesty. With our current situation, anger won't do us any good. And that goes to you too, Crown Prince." Stepping forward, an old commander bowed down before the two. Doing so, the mask covering his face fell flat to the cold floor, revealing a long jagged scar that snaked down the left of his neck. It was an odd mixture of pink and light yellow.

His long, silver beard also reached the dusty ground, but he did not care. He was more worried about their problems at hand. He also ignored the smell of dried blood on his large cape. He needed it to protect his body. Apart from being durable, it held the symbol of the Gargoyle Clan.

The emperor gave out a tired sigh upon hearing this. Normally, he would always keep his emotions under control, but after what happened, he finally snapped. "You are right, old friend." He then diverted his gaze to his son. "Now, tell me. What should I do with you, Callus?"

Upon realizing the hidden message on his father's words, the prince instantly knelt. "My deepest apology, father! I allowed my emotions to get the better of me. This prince deserves a punishment!"

Ignoring his son's drama, the emperor turned to his commander with a serious look. "Gallick, go and get everything ready. It is time to go for a hunt."

"As you wish, Your Majesty." Without any second thoughts, the old war veteran walked away.

"Callus, prepare yourself. Sooner or later, you will know the feeling of staining your hands with the blood of traitors."

Seeing the look on his father's face, the young prince grinned. He was barely a few thousand years old and had yet to kill his first prey. Just the thought of it makes his adrenaline rush to the highest level. "Understood, Your Majesty." Bowing slightly, he turned towards the exit, leaving his father to his thoughts.

I am coming for you, dear brother!

oooOooo

A few miles away from the disaster, a man was carrying his pregnant wife as he dashed up the rocky mountain like a madman. It has only been a few hours, however, he could already hear his heart pounding on his ears. Beads of sweat flowed like a waterfall on his face. His lungs are on fire, thighs burning and breath came in small spurts: hot and rapid. His limbs are trembling in exhaustion. He wanted to rest, however, he did not have that kind of leisure at the moment.