Never Walk Alone : Chapter 3

Welcome for Chapter 3 of Never Walk Alone. Silakan membaca chapter 1 dan juga chapter 2  terlebih dahulu, karena cerita di chapter 3 ini adalah kelanjutan dari cerita di chapter 1 dan chapter 2 :). Sama seperti chapter 1 & 2 , keseluruhan cerita ditulis dalam bahasa Inggris. Jika menemukan kesalahan gramatikal ataupun struktural, silakan email saya di sawamura_foxman AT yahoo DOT com.

Selamat membaca :D

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~ Balkhas, 3011 A.D, 3 years later~

Balkhas, Humavalea's capital city.

The only place where human dare to hope for living and the fortress that built to defend us from the attacks of Varua kingdom. Or the vampires. Dirty and disgusting creatures, oh yes, they are. An abomination.

Balkhas, also known as Vampire Hunters City, the city where vampire hunters gathers and training. That's because there are so many vampire-hunting organization based in Balkhas. And since Balkhas is the main fortress, so many vampire attack had aimed there.

Here I am, Alexandre Evinrude -call me Alex- wandering among the candidates for Vampire Hunters. I am the youngest, barely fifteen years old. And also the most pretty guy. I realize, though I'm a guy, my face like a girl. Lots of men like tease me, and some even ask for any date. Give me a break. Did they think I am.... gay? I am normal. And still love girls. But I just don't have time to dating any. Much less flirting.

Can't blame them, though. With my blond hair that fall pass my shoulder, people often mistakenly thought I am a female. Add it with my unusual color eyes. Purple stones like amethyst, that make me look like a vampire, even though my skin is not so pale as they are. It's hard to hate the color of my own, which I inherited from my mother. My deceased mother.

Three years have passed since the nightmare in Peansville. Three years since I saw my father murdered in front of me, and my mother committed suicide. For something that until now I never understand. I can only remember it vaguely, to be honest. Time after I left Peansville is the worst for me. Twelve-year-olds traveling alone and carry big suitcase, go to Balkhas within 5000 kilometress away is an act of madness. Even for adult, though. Because Balkhas is the most dangerous cities in the world.

Border fortifications between Humavalea and Varua, Balkhas constantly on the alert. Vampire attack that increase continually make the founders of Humavalea Vampire Hunters Organization set up their base here. And as I mentioned earlier, that's where the nickname Vampire Hunters City come .

Difficult journey, yeah. But I finally make it here. I don't really remember the details of my trip. All I remember is the nightmare that so many times try to haunt me. Head separated from my father's body, rolling, and look at me with blank stares. Father's sword Claymore, pierced through my mother's heart. Someone shout something I don't remember. Gregory. And then the hidden face of that mysterious creatures.

Blood. Always a lot of blood all around me.

As if mocking me, invited me to taste them.

 

Sweet, oh somehow it smells so sweet. So much like a cotton candy, rather than make me gag, I want to taste it. A forbidden taste.

I shake my head. Each time the nightmare comes, I'm always screaming hysterically. At one point, the inn where I stay was interrupted by screams, and kicked me out of the inn. I had spent the night in the streets.

I'll bet people are curious how I can survive until I come to Balkhas. At the hospital, my father's attorney came, and tell my parents's will. They left a legacy of very, very much money. I was surprised to see the numbers, because so far we just live...with less money.

I think they already know sooner or later they will die.

The attorney also said one of my father's will is to inherit our house to me. I shake my head and tell him to sell the house. He said it would be difficult to sell it, after an unpleasant incident, but I insist. He surrender and promised me to find potential buyers.  A week before I left the hospital, he came and told the house was sold. Although there are rumors, that the house is haunted. I grunted, but trying to ignore it. He ask me if I want to meet with the buyer, and I said I don't care. Just transfer the money. I then tell him to open two bank accounts for me. One in Balkhas, and one in Mardalsfossen. Because I'm planning to go there later. He was amazed to see me, see a crazy little boy planning a trip. Once again I don't care. I'm just a kid, but I'm not stupid. After all the affairs settled, then I leave and headed to Balkhas.

I arrived at Balkhas two weeks after leaving Peansville. Too long, usually it took just 3-4 days with train. But it is difficult for twelve years old boy to travel safe and comfortable, especially if he was alone. I must save my money too. So, I always change my transpotation method. Closer to Balkhas, things were getting tense. The defense really tight, Balkhas do not want to missed any chance of vampire attacks.

One or two vampires are common. The problem, vampires are very cunning and coward. They always attack in groups. One group usually have a minimum of 4-5 people. And at least 8 Vampire Hunters need to kill them. 2 Vampire hunters against a vampire. Only an experienced vampire hunter who could fight one on one with them. And "experienced" it takes about 8-10 years, while the number of vampire hunter had fallen sharply.

Vampire also has uncommonly attack that do only by individuals who are called "vampire rebels". Chances are they are deserters or fugitives from the Varua kingdom. No wonder. I hear lives in Varua like hell without end. And they tried to sow terror in the hell they keep - the canal of Humavalea attack.

Arriving in Balkhas, I rushed to the main base of Vampire Hunter. Not an easy thing, again, given my condition. Ragged, unkempt, alone. At first, they turned me down, they thought I was a vampire at first. Thanks for the color of my eyes, anyway. But they begin to doubt when I say, "I am Laurent Evinrude's son."

"Laurent has no son." Said one of them.

"You are liar!"

"I never remember Laurent had a son, or a family. What we know is he resigned and went from Balkhas, thirteen years ago. "

"Thirteen years ago?" I asked him.

"Yes, after he was assigned with an important mission to Varua. Laurent is one of our valuable assets. He is one of the experienced vampire hunter. Who could attack a vampire one on one. We really miss him, when he resigned. Just as he would be appointed to be High Oracle. Well, that's the past, "said the man who greeted me with a wave of his hand, as if he did not care anymore, " Now we go to the important matter. I know Laurent didn't have children. And you could not be his child, though I admit you like him when he was young. Your eyes is ... very strange. "

I winced, but not give up.

"Well, my father resigned, because he met with my mother. He didn't want to endanger her, so he left. Then they go to Peansville, and a year later I was born. " It just a story I made up. I'm not mention that Father met Mother at Varua.

They laughed. I said nothing, and then removing a piece of paper. Paper that shows I'm my father's child.

"Look at this if you not believe me," I said, handing him the paper.

They received the paper, then read it. And look at me with a frown. One of them then said, "sorry son, if I doubted you. You're really Laurent's son. We never think he will married. Well, first he was renowned as a lady killer..., " that man laughed hoarsely," there is no wife or children in his mind. What he had is just how to killing vampire everyday, as much as possible. "

"Tell me son," one of them, his head is bald and his ears are filled with silver studs. "What happen to Laurent? Why are you here rather than live with your father? Peansville is the safest city in Humavalea. "

I swallow hard. I begin to speak, but the shadow of the head that separated from my father's body keep haunting my mind.

His head rolling, splattering blood. Blood, always blood.

"My ... father, he died at the hands of a vampire."

They hold their breath. The bald guy who asked me looked at me sharply.

"Then why did you survive, boy? I think they killed your mother? Did they rape her? "

I choked. No, I never think about that possibilty. I thank Gregory to not rape my mother, although he admitted that mother was once his fiance. But still, what happen to my mother make me barely hold back the tears that started to burn my eyes.

"N .. no. She... suicide. "

They hold their breath again. The bald man asked again, "Committed suicide? She leave you alone? "

"I.. yes. "

"Poor boy. And you're safe from them? "

"Not really, one of them piercing my chest."

"What happen?"

"I'm not sure. I ... can't remember. One second, one of them stabbed me. Then I heard shouts, they screams in pain. And I realized that from the vampire who stabbed me. "

I lied. Well, bad habits die hard. Only a few, of course, but I didn't say about the mysterious creature that says "Claire's blood" and save me. The vampires are after me because they target the creature. I can't guess what would happen if they know the existence of strange creatures.

"And after that?"

"My neighbor found me and they took me to the hospital. I recovered and go here. "I said simply.

The bald man remained silent, and look at me. As if to seek the truth that I hide from this meetings. I stare back. Trying to figure out what he will do after this.

Then the bald man sigh, "In the document, it said your name is Alexandre."

"Yeah, my full name is Alexandre. You can call me Alex. "

"Alex, my name is Vincent. Two people behind me are Theodore and Stefan. We are Laurent's best friends and comrades. He is our role model, and this time we really mourn the loss of one of our companions . "

I keep staring at the bald man that named Vincent. I saw sadness in his pure and unspeakable regret. He close his eyes, his face like a man in pain, showing a deep sadness for the loss of someone precious for him. I look behind him, toward Theodore and Stefan. Stefan not show any expression of grief, but Theodore was crying. Seemed to upset to hear about my father's death, like Vincent too.

Vincent then walked up to me and knelt down. He hold my shoulders, and said "Alex, I don't know what you've experienced in your journey to Balkhas. Balkhas is a hard city, and not easy to come here, especially for small children like you. "

"Well," I shrugged my shoulders "I have a guardian angel, and my luck is so great."

Vincent smile a little, though I could see his eyes are glazed, like a glass, "a smooth talker like Laurent. You're really like your father. Unless ... "

"I know. My eyes. "

"Did your mother ..."

I shook my head. "No, my mother's is human." Or that's what I know, before I knew she was from Varua, and was engaged to a vampire. That psycho vampire Gregory. But I've never seen she sucking blood. Or maybe I never know.

I shuddered. What is mother hide from myself? Mother can't be a vampire, because she can be free to go in the daylight. Her skin color is a healthy pink, not pale. Silver and gold also doesn't weaken her. Except for the unusual color of her eyes. Since there are no ordinary people who have eye colors like amethyst. But, on that terrible night, I realized, she can be more than that I think over the years.

"Alex?"

Vincent words hit me. "I.. yes? "

"Why are you here?"

"I told you, my father want me to come here."

"And he should know that Balkhas unsafe. What does he want from you? "

"I.. I ..., " I don't know, or I don't remember what my father exactly said at that time," he just told me to stay alive. "

Vincent look at me, he looks like he think about something .Theodore still sobbing, while Stefan finally said, "you want to be a vampire hunter, Alex?"

I looked up and look to Stefan, "Vampire hunter, Sir?"

"He is still twelve years old, Stefan. You know the rules. For becoming a vampire hunter, the minimum age is 15 years." Vincent interrupt him.

"He can stay for awhile here. I think Laurent also want it, Vincent. Balkhas is not safe, but he's safe here rather than roaming the streets. "

Vincent look at me again, and squeeze my shoulder, "are you sure, Alex?"

I nodded. "Yes, that's what my father want."

"Well, you're going to stay here for a while. While waiting until fifteen years old, you can spend your time taking care of this base. "

"I'll do anything."

Vincent smile. He stand up and grab my hand. Stefan step forward and took my suitcase. We walk to the door of the castle, and Theodore welcome me, wiping his nose with a handkerchief.

"I'm sorry, son. I was shocked to hear about Laurent's death. He was a friend of mine when we were young. Me, Vincent, that quiet Stefan and Laurent was once brothers in arms. "

"Partners in crime, if you can call. And we also compete when it come to wooing and seduce women, "said Stefan with a small smile.

"Well, well. That son of a bitch,Laurent, oh sorry for my rude words, boy! He  always lucky. Woman flying around him like bees drawn to honey. Honey that is forbidden, of course. I think your mother, Marie, was very beautiful? " ask Theodore.

"Yes, sir Theodore. No one is more beautiful than her. "

"Ah call me Theo. Or Oracle Theo. The three of us, and Laurent was once the Oracle. "

"Okay, Theo, umm, Oracle Theo."

Theodore smile, and shake my hand. He then walk over to my right, while Vincent remain with his left hand on my shoulder. Stefan walk behind us, carrying my suitcase.

"I hope you feel like at home, when staying here, Alex. From now, Balkhas is yours." said Vincent.

We walk down the aisle fort. Vincent then go to the room that he prepare for me. Meanwhile, the last words from Vincent keep ringing in my mind.

Home?

There is no home for me. Wherever it is.

Never Walk Alone : Chapter 2

Welcome for Chapter 2 of Never Walk Alone. Silakan membaca chapter 1 terlebih dahulu, karena cerita di chapter 2 ini adalah kelanjutan dari cerita di chapter 1 :). Sama seperti chapter 1, keseluruhan cerita ditulis dalam bahasa Inggris. Jika menemukan kesalahan gramatikal ataupun struktural, silakan email saya di sawamura_foxman AT yahoo DOT com.

Selamat membaca :D

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"Father!"

I'm too shock to see the situation in front of me. My body can't move when I see Warren cut my father's head. Can't move when his head separated from his body. Blood pooled around my father and Warren. Then its flow toward me. A disgusting metallic smell, makes me want to vomit. But on the other side makes me shudder with desire to feel it.

What is it? Why I have an urge to taste blood? My father's blood?

I turn around and look at my mother. She stop crying, her gaze fixed on my father. She was quiet again, as if Father's death don't mean anything for her. Then she look at me, and like my father, she said, "Stay alive Alexandre. Stay alive for the sake of our lives."

Mother let go of myself and walk into Gregory's direction. Then she face Warren which body still covered in blood. My father's blood.

Mother walk through my father's body that lying on the floor, not stop to see him, her eyes fix on Gregory. And when she stand in front of Gregory, I am surprise to see her smile.

"Gregory, you've got what you want. Laurent's death is all that you want, instead of Alexandre's. Your pride were wounded and shattered because I chose Laurent, not you. "

"Marie, my love, you see so low on me. I always want you. You hurt me, yes it's true. But it will not happen if you and Laurent give your son willingly. "

"Willing or not, you will still kill my husband, Gregory. I know it, you forget that I can read your mind, right? "

Gregory jerked, wince, then look at her sharply. His uninterrupted composure began to waver.

"You will never own me, Gregory. Thirteen years ago, when I chose Laurent, I already knew this day would come. You can take the precious things of my life from me. But you will never get what you want the most. Myself, and also Alex. "

Mother then turn and walk toward my father's body that now lay lifeless. With her fragile hand, tremblely, she raise my father's head that lying on the floor. Mother stroked father's hair, closes his eyes, embrace him on her breast and said, "Wait for me, dragostea mea. Soon we will meet and will never be parted. "

Mother take my father's Claymore that still lying on the floor, near my father's dead body. And once again she walk to Gregory. Only this time she turned and face Warren.

"Warren, my friend, sorry I always make you worried, from when I live in Varuala until now."

"Marie ... I'm, I'm not going to apologize to what I have done. We both know that, when Laurent kidnap you from Varuala, this is the first thing I would do. "

"Kidnap? You wrong, Warren. Laurent never kidnap me. I go with him willingly." My mother just smile at Warren. Her face was calm, and serene. And now she point the Claymore toward Gregory.

"Well, well, what is it Marie? You want to kill me? "asked Gregory. He sound amused.

"Marie ..." Warren step to stop her.

Mother was not affected at all, she walked to Gregory, while still drew Claymore with her.

"You really want do this, Marie? Kill me? I know you will not be able to kill me. With your delicate hand. And those sword is so big for you to wield it "said Gregori.

Mother just shook her head, and then I see a strange aura surrounding my mother's body. Then, she suddenly scream with her hoarse voice, said something that I did not understand.

"Radu, my blood guardian! I give away my life for thee, by the old treaty!  With my blood, flesh and soul, I command thee to be Alexandre's guardian! Until his death! Until his descendant's death! Until your oath fulfilled! "

Then she do things I never think. Mother drive the Claymore to the her stomach!

"Marie!" Warren shout. While Gregory swore, "stupid, brainless woman! You kill yourself just to protect this child! "

Mother continue to hold the Claymore tightly. Blood was spill again. This time her body shaking. Her mouth spit blood, but she never budge. Her eyes look at Gregory with a deep hatred.

"Radu, wake up! I command thee to protect Alexandre! "

Mother pull the sword from her stomach. Warren try to catch her stumbling body, but Gregory told him to keep in his place with a piercing gaze. Mother then fall, dragging her body toward my father, and see me.

"Forgive...me... Alex ..."

I just stop to see my dying mother. Which means that two people in my life has gone. Two people who become the foundation of my life that will never go back. Two people, one die protecting me, one die for calling something that I do not understand.

I cry, but no tears come out, no sound speak. I become silent, stunned to see what was once my parents's body, this time like a broken doll. Unused.

"So sickening! She can choose me, she will still living with her son after that. But she choose to go to hell with that cockroach!! " Gregory's voice broke after the death of my mother.

"Master Gregory, what should we do with Marie's son?" ask Warren.

"Well, Warren, of course we're still stick with our first plan."

"But ..."

"You want to violate my orders, Warren?"

"No, sire!"

"Then kill him. His face is so like Laurent, make me disgust to see it! "

Warren walk toward me, pulling out his claws - a sharp claws from his fingers and said, "Sorry, son. As much as possible, I don't want to kill you. You are the son of a woman who once engaged to Master Gregory, my blood master. Even though I pledge my loyalty to him, I love her too. But I have to carry out the orders. "

If Gregory surprised to hear Warren statement, he never show it. Gregory remained standing like a statue. His violet eyes look at me like a hawk, so cold and calculated while watching its prey.

I trembled, and look around. Nothing I can use to defend myself. I can use the Claymore, but its too far, and I hesitate to pick it up. I then put the stance, and clench my hand forward, acting like a boxer.

"Hah, look at that! What a wonderful courage. Courage that is so foolish, young man. "Gregory sneer, laughing. Laughter that I find its disgusting.

Warren step forward to attack me, and I'm ready. He scratch my cheek, and blood come out. The putrid smell of blood makes me nauseous. So much blood spilled tonight.

Warren attack me again, but again he only scratch me. I see he's so reluctant to kill me. I stay in my place, hold up my fist, though I know it is useless, while Warren scratch my body. Again.

Hurt!

It's hurt!

Then, I smell a metallic tang of the blood.

It makes me sick, but once again I can't resist my desire to taste the blood.

Gregory apparently angry at the sight of Warren that so reluctant to attack me. His patience runs out, and he shout, "If you do not kill him now, you know the consequences, Warren. Anja will not be happy if she see her brother failed in the task. And I also know you will not be happy with what I do to Anja! "

Who's Anja?

I glance to my attacker. Warren just clench his jaw, then finally he cast an attack at me. And right on target! His hands now lock in my chest and I can feel his hands gripping my heart, ready to squeeze it at any time.

Blood emerge from my mouth, my awareness begin to disappear. I see Warren's body  slowly disappeared from my sight. Ah, soon I will follow my father and mother.

Heaven? Hell? I don't know. I'm ashamed. I just can not live like they want me to do.

But just at that moment, I feel there is something weird happen. Half unconscious, I hear Warren screaming in pain. And he let go of my beating heart. The pain was so unbearable, but that made me wonder. Why am I still alive, even though Warren hands was piercing my chest?

I try to concentrate. What things that makes Warren shouted? Is the sun on the morning has come? But it is not possible, it's still night. What things that makes Warren screams in pain like that?

"Help me, sire!"

Warren continue to scream, and I hear a no humanlike sound shredding Warren's body. I can't see clearly, but after some seconds I could see the glimpse of the shadow that move so quickly, and attack Warren for many times. It surprise me later, because even though the room was so dark, I could see  what happen to Warren.

Warren shouts grow louder, and now he sound like a human instead. But of course he's a vampire, not human. But hear the vampire who killed my father scream for help on Gregory make me shudder.

"What are you? Why are you doing this? "Gregory cried.

Warren screams again for the last time. Then all became silent.

"Are you Marie's guardian?"

The mysterious creature is silent. I can't see its figure. Only a towering black siluet and it look menacing. It hands, or I thought it was hand, flashing in red. Warren's blood.

I try to see what happened to Warren. And although in a weakened state, I almost faint to see Warren. The creature had been ripped Warren's body apart, and threw it into all corners of the room. A very bad way to die.

"What are you doing?" cried Gregory. This time I hear the fear in his voice. His fear is absolute.

The creature still silent, but then he said the most horrible sound I've ever heard, "I was ordered to protect Claire's blood, and that's what I do."



Claire? My middle name is Claire. And even in that moment I feel a little bit ashamed of my middle name that sound like girl name, hear that thing called me by my name make me think of my Mother.

I hear that creature roar with a ridiculous sound, then it attack Gregory. Panic, Gregory then ordered his men to attack the mysterious creature.

I saw it all with my blurred sight, clutching my badly wounded chest, punctured by Warren. Blood gushing over and over. I look at my father and mother for the last time, and said quietly, "I will stay alive".

Then, everything suddenly go black.

***

Where am I?

Everything is so blurry and I can't put a single coherent thought. Then, I realize I am in the hospital. My body was wrapped in bandages, and I smell the disinfectant. I could hear the constant buzzing of hospital's machine that connected to my body. Trying to hypnotize me to go back to sleep and forget the nightmare.

I try so hard to open my eyes and move my body. I have to know what happened, why I was in the hospital. Where is my father? Where is my mother? Warren? Gregory? That mysterious creature? The questions continues to spinning, playing in my head and make me dizzy.

I then push the button for the nurse, and a few minutes later a woman in a nurse outfit come, her face shaded. She see me and said, "oh, you awake? How are you? "

"Hi", I smiled, weakly, and the asked "what happened? Why am I here? "

"Calm down, son. You're safe here "she replied.

"But I want to know who brought me here? Then .. where both my parents ...? "

The nurse is silent, and look at me sympathetically.

"Your neighbor is who brought you here. He wanted to give some gifts for your family, but was surprised to see ... to see ... your house. You're the only one who survived. Your parents are dead. We can't help them..."

I know it. No need to describe their condition again. I saw it with my own eyes, my father and mother died. Also, it's impossible to help my father, with his head had been cut from his body.  They were gone for good. But, something bugged me.

"But my chest was ripped open!! I don't think the doctor can heal it. I would die alone from that!"

She look confused when see me. As to decide if I'm still lucid from my medicine. "Ripped open? No, son. You seems perfectly health. Just few scratch over your body. But you lose so many blood. That's why we connect the machine to your body. Weird indeed, you just have a few cuts, yet so many blood pool around you when paramedic come."

I'm stunned. I wonder, maybe the mysterious creature that heal me. The blood that pooled around me of course my own blood that fallin from wound Warren put to my chest.

The nurse then put the flowers in my room. Check my blood pressure, check the machine that connected in my body and after deciding she not worried about my situation, she left me.

Day by day in the hospital passed quickly, or I do not care. My neighbors visit me. My friends who always make fun and bullied me at the school came, and looked at me with pity look on their face. One of their parents offer me to life with them.

No, I thought. Why? I don't want the last incident to happen again. No way. Leave me alone. I don't want to see people who are dear to me die again. I see blood and I feel sick. Although on the other side, I think like if I craved it. It's disgusting.

Sometimes, once they are all gone, I cried uncontrollably. In my heart I promise myself, this is my last cries. From this time , I will not cry anymore. I will fulfill my parents's last words. Live alone and do not depend on others. Continue to survive.

Months  passed, the doctors and nurses decide I can be release out of the hospital. No relatives picked me up. No surprise after all. All of my neighbors offered help, but I'm resist them. I don't even want to see their faces that were full of pity.

After coming back from the hospital, I'm going to the grave of my parents. My neighbors kindly enough to look after them and provide a decent funeral. But I can't said thank you for them. My heart feels numb, I feel so empty when I see the grave. They were buried side by side. I just hope they will meet again in heaven, and will never be separated for the second time.

Before I leave the grave, I said, sobbingly, "Father, mother. I love you both. I'm sorry, you must give up your lives. I.. I  will never forget you. From now on I will start my own life. I will never forget that you've protected me until the last time. "

For a moment I felt like my mother's fingers stroked my hair. But I know it's just a feeling. There is no one stand in this cemetery besides myself. With a heavy heart I take my suitcase and start walking. I know, it may be difficult for 12 years old boy like me to take this path. But I'm sure I could.

I turn to the cemetery for the last time. Then look around. Peansville look so peaceful. Safe from the vampire attack, but still those filthy creatures that killed my parents.

Then I  walked and left Peansville. Go to Balkhas, like my father said in his last time. To go to the main base of Vampire Hunters.

Goodbye Peansville...

Goodbye, my home...

Goodbye... my parents...

The wind howled. Its sound like someone roar.

And I realize...

It's my roar of vengeance...

Never Walk Alone : Chapter 1

Hai hai :D

Never Walk Alone, adalah novel yang saya ikutkan untuk NaNoWriMo di tahun 2011, dimana saya pertama kalinya join NaNoWriMo. Karena pada bulan saat saya nulis cerita ini, yaitu November 2011, saya diterima kerja, jadi berhenti di tengah jalan deh :') . Saya belum tahu kapan mau ngelanjutin lagi, semoga saja ada waktu. Karena di NaNoWriMo tahun ini, saya menulis cerita yang bener - bener baru.

Never Walk Alone adalah versi yang lebih baru dan lebih matang secara tulisan (yah menurut saya :P) dari When You Smile. Ada penambahan karakter dan perkembangan cerita. Untuk versi yang saya posting ini, saya memposting edisi bahasa Inggrisnya, yang saya terjemahkan sendiri. Berhubung bahasa Inggris bukan bahasa native saya, kalau ada nemu kesalahan grammar dan structure, bisa kirim email ke saya di sawamura_foxman at yahoo dot com 

Selamat membaca :D

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~ Mardalsfossen, 3025 AD ~

"Dad, I want those chocolate ice cream!"

A shout from some little boy make me awake. I glance to the clock beside my bed. Still 5 a.m. I see if the chick I met last night still sleep beside me.

She's not there.

Good. Maybe she hang up with Roderick, our Fire Master. I'm not bothered by that fact. Not that I'm terrible lover or something that snore in my bed. But I prefer to wake alone.

The morning's weather was cool enough to freeze me out. Slowly, I step out from my bed and walk into the window. I open it and breathe, the air is so fresh even I'm still feel cold. Been 6 months since Randalph leave Mardalsfossen and go to Alcarta. He had a plan, someone to meet, something to do. It's Randalph to you. He come and go as he please.

I see to the outside. Well, that little boy voice is loud enough to wake dead people. He can't stop whining to his parents. Why they still not buy him ice cream? Feel annoyed, I start to shout to him to just shut up, when I see them. And stun when look their happy faces.

Family ...

It's been seventeen years, when my life change. And suddenly I remember all the events in my past. Seventeen years ago, when I am not familiar with the hardest part of this world.

Seventeen years ago, when my deepest nightmare began ...

CHAPTER 1

~ Peanville, 3008 AD, 17 years ago ~

My name is Alexandre Claire Evinrude. People often look at me confusely or wondering why my middle name sound like a girl name. I think that's my mother's fault, Marie Evinrude. At the beginning of her pregnancy, she is so eager to had baby girl and want to named her Claire. Imagine when the baby is a boy, a.k.a me. But my father, Laurent Evinrude, bless him, sometimes he had a brilliant idea. Claire's name continue to be used, but as a middle name. He then naming me Alexandre, which its meaning in French was, "defender of the humankind".

Few days more, I'll turn twelve years old. Still a child, that what my father said. Not yet a teenager, he added. My mother just smile, and she will stroke my hair. She always say, "Alex, you really like your father. A handsome face, aquiline nose, a lips that always whining to get what you want, "she said with a laugh.

"But my eye color comes from you," I replied.

"Ah, yes. yours are like mine, like amethyst stone, "said her.

"Like those blood-sucking leechs," I muttered.

They suddenly become quiet, then just look at me sadly. I feel awkward after say that.

"Yes, like a vampire", says my father.

"I hate my eyes! My friends in school always make fun of me. And they also mock you, Mother! "

"Did they hurt you, Alex?" asked my mother. She sounded worried.

"Nothing. Yes, sometimes they  locked me in the bathroom. But, I always make it out. I'm smarter than them, "I replied, proudly.

Father and mother look at each other, then they laugh. Well, I do not want to make them afraid, a little lie  sometimes is necessary. My friends  not only locked me in the bathroom,  sometimes they beat me. I used to hide the wounds from my parents. Yeah, a little lie will not hurt anyone.

"If they start to bullying you and cross the line, you can complain to the teachers, Alex," said my father, stop my inner mind dialogue.

"Father, I'm not weak. But, okay, I'll do it. " Once again, I like to appraise myself in front of my parents.

He smile once more. He look pleased with his one and only boy. Sometimes I feel very lonely staying at home. Evinrude family's mansion is magnificient but gloomy. Sometimes I talk to my parents (or rather whine), to move from Peanville then go to Mardalsfossen.

But my mother always refuse. "Mardalsfossen not safe," she replied.

"Mardalsfossen is a great city, and have lots of great toys!" I wailed. Hey, I'm a boy - a usual kind of boy who is also fond of toys.

"Peansville is safer. There are no vampires here. "

"Mardalsfossen too. Well, I hear there are vampires wandering at the city, but just a few of them. Unlike at Balkhas, Mother! "

"When I said not, it is not, Alex", Mother said gently. "Do you not feel like at home when staying in Peansville?"

I was speechless and only nod. Well, what a twelve-year olds boy can do? I have to stay in Peansville that so grim and gloomy, and face any bullying act from my friends at school.

The same day start over and over again without stopping.

But somehow, today, my father and mother being weird. Not like usual,I thought. Mother who is usually cheerful, now become quiet and more quiet. She stroke my hair for times. My father that always joke with me, become grim and also quiet. Well they are still play and talk with me, but after that they fell silent again. As if...thinking of something.

I become panic. What's wrong with them? Are they mad at me? Are they somehow knew I was hiding the fact that I used to be bullied at school?

My questions is answered that night. Ten o'clock at night, it should be 12 years old boy as me to already asleep. But my father told me not to sleep. I start to panic again. Darn, I thought. They know!

I'm trying to think positively. Maybe they will not punish me even though I'd lied to them. Maybe they will grant my wish to move to Mardalsfossen. Yeah, goodbye grim and gloomy Peansville. And I can go freely to Mardalsfossen, meet new people. Although in my little heart, I'm a little scared, what would they think if they see this eyes.

But my father still silent. So quiet, not speaking a word. Mom also just lower her face and weep. I hate to see she crying. Hey, I tell you one more, I'm. A. Boy ! If there is a girl or woman crying, I can not bear to see it. Not that I consider them weak. I just want to protect them,'kay? But, here I am, just stand and see her cry.

Mother cries grew louder and my father's face looked more grim. My fear grew. Even though still a child , I know, this is more than just some lies that was discovered. It's larger than "my friend are bullying me" problems

"Alex .." said my father.

"Y.. Yes?"

"We want to say something".

"What is it, Father?" I hope is not about the lies.

I'm confused. I see my father loss for words to speak. While my mother still crying. Then she saw me. Purple eyes like a amethys stone, shine like a rare jewel it is. Beautiful even she's crying. Her face was flushed, but she tried to smile. As if trying to convince me, that whatever my father said, everything will be fine... just fine.

My father sighed for a moment, then said, "Alex ... from now  ... you must live alone. Without us. "

Huh? I'm getting confused. Live... alone? What does he mean? Why suddenly my father talk like that? I just twelve years old, for God's sake! I know that I'm not a kid anymore. But give me a break? Twelve years old and your parents tell you to live alone? Huh! Their speech is a beautiful gift for my birthday, which is feel lame for me.

"Father, you just kidding right? You are not really serious with your words,right? "

But, I see his expression,  grim and serious. So, he is not joking. I then turn to my mother.

"Mother! Father just kidding right? You two just kidding, right? You don't really want me to live alone!!"

Mother still silent, then she hug me, sobbing. I hug her back, still feel confused

"Alex, forgive us, forgive us," she repeat that words, and still sobbing.

I'm getting more confused, why suddenly they said something like this . Why must this day? The day I celebrate my twelve years birthday?

I am not realize that tonight was my last night with my family, and the last time we can be together. My brain as a small child can not understand the concept of life itself in a very young age. What is actually my parents hide, until they decide I should live alone? Do I have to part with them ... forever? No, I do not want to! They are the only family I have. All I know both, my parents are orphanage and although they have a cousin or distant relative, they never say it.

That question continues to repeat itself, again and again in my mind. Why must this day they say I must live alone? And, where do I go?

Meanwhile, the wind outside the window grow louder and a sound of roaring suddenly appear. It's so terrible, I feel cold. Father look strained, my mother stopped crying, but she still hug me. I am silent too. I feel something bad is going to my home. Something evil that make my father and mother suddenly tell me to live alone.

A second later, all the windows in my house broken. I feel the wind blow very hard and the chill of night pierce my face. Electricity in my house off, but thankfully there is still a glimmer of light from the outside coming into the house. So I can still see where my father and my mother is. We just fell quiet, waiting for something to happen. Waiting for something that threatens our safety.

Then, the figures that I am not recognize enter into our house.

They maybe, are the most horrible and cruel but also the most beautiful creatures I have ever known. They have same face with the people in the Humavalea. Only theirs are pale, protruding canine teeth when they're grinning, some invisible wings like bat, and a black cloak. I know, it's cliche, but I feel like a mouse in on front of snake. I can't move and can't stop see them.

And then, those purple eyes that like an amethyst stone. A monster who had for many years become human enemy at Humavalea.

Varuala they name themself. Vampire we named them, the creature we know only living in legend, but they do exist. Live in the kingdom Varua, the place that only screams can be hear from our world.

"We want to take the boy," said one of them with a hoarse voice as he pointed at me. While the rest stand around me and my parents. We are stuck, unable to escape. Can't ask for help. They are all show a very cruel expression on their face, one wrong move from us, it will have fatal consequences.

But my father suddenly came forward. As he stretch out his hands, he's going to protect us. That's my dad. The Evinrude family protector. The vampires are tall, but my father's height is above the average people. He is not afraid to see the vampires. His face is tense, and now looks full of anger.

My mother still holding me. She had stopped crying, and I am surprise to see her expression. Just as father, mother also looks angry. She hug me so tightly I can't breath and feel hurt. But Mother never move, she still hug me. Like don't want to let me go.

"No!", my father shout. "Until whenever, Alexandre will never we give to you all!"

The leader of the vampires pause, his eyes watching us coldly and calculating. He reply in a voice that make my father freeze. "The boy's there have a creature in his body that can destroy our nation. We have to kill him, in order for we to survived. I think you know about that, Laurent. "

I am surprise again. The vampire know my father's name! I see to my father, then to the vampire. He just smiled to see me. A smile that made me shudder. My father clench his teeth, listening to that vampire call his name.

"That's the business of you, the Varuala. Nothing to do with us,Humavalea's men! We live in Peansville, to avoid all the affairs between Varuala and Humavalea. Again, nothing to do with us. Alex is innocent, he don't know anything!"

"But you know, Laurent. You are the former vampire hunter. Huh, vampire. Just saying the word that you all human calling us is makes me sick. You're well known among the Varuala. Varua royal noble actually admire your ability as hunter. You're so smart, strong and also cunning. So clever until you can grab our most precious treasure. Is not that right, Marie? "

Mother gasp. She pause, then look at the vampire with anger.

"None of your business Gregory! I went from Varua, because I'm sure Laurent will make me safe! "

"But you're safer in our hands, Marie." answered the vampire, named Gregory, quietly. As if this is a tea banquet, and he don't intend to attack us.

I'am stun hear my mother's last words. She came from Varua?

"But she's not a vampire!" I exclaimed.

Gregory see me, his eyes show an interest.

"He never know, Laurent? Marie? He never know about the creature that inhabit his body. Creature that used to be the guardian of Marie, and now protect him. "

This is getting weird and weirder, the creature in my body make Gregory think it will threaten the vampire. Now he says the creature is my guardian. So, what am I?

"Mother ... I ... What am I?" I asked, looking at my mother.

My mother, with those beautiful purple eyes. Eyes that passed on to me, just look at me with sadness. "I'm sorry, Alex. You're still so young. Laurent and I realize that this day would come. That our life is not long enough after he took me away from Varua. That we should leave. "

"But, mother.You are come from Varua, it means mother ... you... father? My father knew that, so it means you are ... "

I can't continue. What my friends say at school always playing in my mind, that I was a vampire's child Because of this eyes. I shut them tightly. I can't think, I can't!

"No. Alex," said my father, "Your mother Marie was not part of the vampire. Your mother is more than that, and neither do you. "

"Laurent, Laurent, Laurent. That's what I admire about you. Intelligent, and full of secrets. I still wondering how you kidnap Marie, our treasure. "Gregory said, a tone of admiration in his voice, as well as sarcasm.

"None of your business, leech!" replied my father.

"Tsk, tsk, tsk. And still so wild and rough. You realize Marie is my fiancee, and yet you took her. Laurent, you hurt my heart, and also make me angry. You both need to be punished. Your life is not enough. Marie's life too. Although I regret to say this, I love you Marie, really. But you chose this cockroach than me. So you also have to die with him, sweetheart. And I promise to treat your children like my own son. "Gregory kept smiling while looking at us. His men are standing in the back, all chuckled.

"You're crazy, Gregory. I and Marie may be die, but Alex is not mere thing you could recognize as yours. Alex will survive, just like Marie. Creature that inhabit his body will protect him and according to the propechy, will destroy you, the rotten leechs! "

"Laurent, my friend. With regret we do in fact, have to use violence, is not it? Andrew, Frances, Jean, you know what to do."

Gregory snapped his fingers, and instantly three of the vampires behind us moving forward at a pace that humans can not be detect.

The vampires attack my father. Mother hold me back, trying to protect me, while my father fight against the vampires. My father run into the nearest wall, and take the sword into the wall. And then  I know. It's not a decorative sword, the sword is real.

"Ah, Claymore. You still have it, I see. "Gregory sounded amazed, though I hear there is a little fear in his voice.

"Well, you know me, Gregory. It's not good to forget the past, "my father grin as he put his stance and wielding the sword, that called Claymore.

Three vampires under Gregory's command started to surround him. Father remain vigilant. His Claymore remain unsheathed. I was so amazed to see my father. He is like a warrior of the past, like a Templars knight that ready to kill his enemies in the battle, protect what he treasure the most. I hear Gregory call my father as the former vampire hunter. I never expect it. I always thought my father was an officer he used to be. It never dawned in my mind that he was once a warrior who defends the humans against the vampires.

"Father, don't lose! Fight, I want you to teach me how to swing a sword that make you always won! "I yelled.

"Shhh, Alex. Don't distract your father, "my mother said with a slight whisper.

My father never see me, he also never less his stance. But he said, "I'm sorry, Alex. If only I teach you to learning how to use sword from the first time. My fault to want Marie and me to raise you as a normal kid. "

"You will not lose!"

And still he continue to said, "Alex, listen to me. This is my last words from me. After this, I and your mother will not survive. But you can. Go as far as possible from here, and to Balkhas. Go to the main base of Vampire Hunter. Tell me you are my son, Laurent Evinrude. And whatever happens, fight. Fight, Alex! Stay alive for us, stay alive until you find someone that means to you, just as I find Marie. I love you Alex. Never, ever forget that. "

My father still not see me when he say that words. But I can see his back shudder. As if he know his time is no longer, that we will be forever separated.

I start to cry. But then I try to reply his, "I promise you, father. I promise I'll stay alive. I love you and mother too!. "

"It's really a touching farewell scene between father and son. Shakespeare will be so inspire to see you both and make a play from it. But, alas, my time is not so much. I'm sorry, Laurent, "Gregory said, still smiling.

I'm sick of seeing his smile!

Three of Gregory's vampires attacked my father. By instinct and experience as a vampire hunter, father go forward and wield his sword. His movements are so beautiful like a dancer.

Crashh! He manage to behead one of the vampire!

"Frances!" Hissed one of the vampire who attacked my father, then looked at him with deep hatred.

"One dies, two still standing." says my father.

The vampire attacked my father again. Try to avoid the vampire, my father roll back and draw his sword right through the vampire's heart.

"Two dead, one left." my father grin, and facing toward Gregory.

"It is the ability of your crew, Greg?"

"You know I really hate to call it, my friend Laurent. But Frances and Jean is a low level warrior. Let's see if you can beat Andreas. He is the son of the most talented and most powerful Varuala noble. "

My father put up his stance back, and this time he faces Andreas. Although I don't fight, I know the vampire named Andreas was dangerous. My father know it too. A cold sweat began to slick down on his face, and his hands began to tremble.

"Freeze. The ability to freeze the movement of the opponent. Amazing, Andreas, "said my father.

Andreas grinned, and then attack my father. To his surprise, my father break Andreas's spell, and strike back. They meet in the middle. Andreas, a vampire with sharp fingernails, rapid movement and almost invisible. Father with his claymore, but still able to fight Andreas.

Finally my father cast a final strike on Andreas, and cut his head. Andreas fall, but my father's breath sound weird. He's breathing so fast. Then I saw holding his stomach. Seems Andreas had cut my father and now he is wounded!

"Father!"

Father still not see me, as if I am not in the room. His eyes still look out to see Gregory. "You're not going to get Alex, Gregory."

Gregory with those sickening smile, again smile slyly and said, "I always get what I want, Laurent."

"Huh, nonsense ... ugh!"

I am stun. The event was happen very fast. Second before, my father still talking to Gregori, a second later red spot spread in his chest. Big red spot and smell metallic.

Blood.

"Da ... mn."

"Yes, Laurent. You still remember Warren right? "

"War .. ren ...imposssible. I ... I ... "

"Kill him when you kidnapped Marie, isn't it? Warren was assigned to guard Marie. And you thought you had killed him, Laurent. But you don't know, that you just kill his shadow. "

"Shadow, eh? I was ... careless ... ugh! "my father look down and began to spit blood.

"Father!"

I start running toward my father, but my mother hold me back. Her tears flow like a rivers on her face. She look to my injured father, and whisper, "we will meet again after this, Laurent."

"Warren" said Gregori.

A shadowy figure appear out of nowhere and form silouette of a male. Pale as his colleagues, purple eyes that exude hatred that  now looking at my father.

A second later, my father turn to me. Finally he face me.

"Good-bye ... Alex," he said, smiling.

Before Warren blow the last strike and cut my father's head.

Catatan : Disini saya menggunakan A.D, yang merupakan singkatan dari After Destruction. Jadi tidak memakai sistem kalender Tahun Masehi :)