Nameless Immortal

Untitled Part 8

Chapter 8 The Mines

There is still half an hour before sunrise, snow continued to fall over Sin city. Chimney smokes could be seen from houses while the winds brought forth a chill that makes you shiver. Homeless people gathered around bonfires seeking warmth from the harsh winter. Some corpses could be seen buried underneath the white snow, such is the cruelty of life.

The front door of the pavilion opened, three people came out wearing fur coats and hats. A man, a boy with a pick axe and a woman.

"I'm sorry but I don't want to see you leave, so I'll just see you out from here. By the way manager Tang said this was your accumulated salary." Minchin spoke while breath vapor was coming out. She took out a small pouch filled with coins and gave it to Eznho.

She was still reluctant but had no choice but to accept reality. She could only hope for the best. She went in front of Eznho and hugged tightly while he hugged her back. After several seconds, they let go each other and she kissed him on the forehead. A kiss full of hope and a wish that the boy would come back to her.

"Take care my little Ez," Minchin said dotingly while gently holding Eznho's face with palm. Then she turned to Martin.

"Martin, I entrust little Ez to you while you are traveling together." She said with a stern voice.

"Don't worry Miss Minchin, as long as I, Martin, lives, nobody can hurt little Ez," Martin vowed while sticking out his chest.

"It's good you know, now go," Minchin commanded while waving her hand.

"I will be back aunt Minchin, I promise," Eznho said with a serious face then started to walk ahead.

"I'll be right here," She answered.

"See you after a year Miss Minchin," Martin bowed and started to jog catching up with Eznho.

Minchin just stood outside while watching two silhouettes disappear, a tear fell down then she turned around and entered.

....

While Martin and Eznho were halfway to their destination, Martin stopped Eznho.

"Little Ez, I have something for you, it is just for precaution," Martin said and took out a dagger.

"I hope you will not have to use this, but if you must, don't hesitate to use it when your life is in danger," Martin said solemnly. Then he handed the dagger to Eznho.

He was having second thoughts when he planned about the dagger, but after thinking about it, he decided to go for it. Unforeseen events may happen anytime and a weapon may come in handy.

Eznho was surprised but he received and unsheathed it. The dagger was light, about half a kilo, it was nine inches in total length. The spine was curved like the blade that resulted in a pointy edge, it was obviously sharp and could easily cut apart the skin. It was forged from a common metal which had a dull gray color, the handle was made from a fifty-year old Nara tree which was harder and more resilient than the average tree. A simple brown leather was made as it's sheath.

"Thank you, big brother, I'll make sure keep it all times with me." Eznho was touched by Martin's thoughtfulness.

He then hung it on his left waist while his small pick axe was on his right. They continued to walk until they reached their destination.

"Wait for me here, I'll just go and change to my uniform, I'll be back," Martin said to Eznho and jogged towards the military office.

.....