14 Strength Upgrade (2/2)

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While Arnin was making his way to the academy, the village elder was extremely busy at his home.

”Village elder, you must get justice for my son's family. Please, help me avenge my son.” A large man that looked no younger than the village elder, was kneeling in front him. The man had a grievous look, with tears falling down his face.

”Zuko, I know what you are feeling, but I can't help you in this. The person that is supporting that family is not someone you or I can offend. If you go against that family, not only will I not support you, I will stop you with all costs.” The village elder sighed as he looked at his saddened friend. The man in front of him was Zuko, the father of Viret. He was only second to the village elder and was even a large contributor to the village. The village elder was, of course, sad about the events that took place, but because of the contract he had with Arnin, he could only protect his family.

Zuko was shocked when he heard what the village elder said. ”Village elder, why would you stand in my way to avenge my son's death? I have supported and protected this village for my entire life, even if you don't help me, you shouldn't go against me!” Zuko was more angry then sad. He was mad that his son was killed. He was angry that he couldn't even get the support of the village elder. Now he couldn't even avenge his son's family?

”I am sorry, but I really can't help you, even if I wanted to” The village elder was helpless. The contract forced him to protect Arnin's family no matter what. 'So this is what he meant when he said no matter what?' The village elder mockingly sighed. He got tricked by a five-year-old to protect his family no matter the cost. The village elder had some fear growing inside of him because of Arnin's deep calculations.

*Creak*

As the two old people were discussing, the door to the village elder's home opened up. Three people walked into the house; Ashia, Nekaia, and Avian. Ashia and Nekaia had pale faces, while Avian had an angry one.

”Village elder, tell me where Arnin is! I know you know where that brat is, so you better tell me!” Avian loudly spoke with great anger. When she finally came back from the city, she heard about what happened and was shocked. Arnin killed three people and fled the scene. The news shocked her and when she saw how Nekaia and everyone were handling it, she felt extremely mad. They were all depressed and gloomy, Ashia even had tear stains on her face.

”Who do you think you are, barging into this place? Don't think I won't dea-” Just as Zuko was about to berate Avian's manners, he felt his blood rush to his throat and coughed blood. A frightening aura erupted from Avian's body. It was not as sinister as Arnin's, but it was extremely powerful.

”Who do you think you are, old man? When I am speaking to someone, you need to silently wait in the corner. Now scram!” Avian didn't have time for Zuko's nonsense so she used the most effective way to shut him up; absolute strength.

”Miss Avian, please calm your anger.” The village elder struggled to his feet under the terrifying pressure. He walked towards Avian with great fear and told her about the contract that Arnin had her sign.

”That stupid rascal and his contracts! Ashia, don't worry, I will get information about him as soon as possible.” Avian gently looked at Ashia before glaring at the village elder.

”Little Ashia, Arnin told me to tell you that he doesn't wish for you to find him. He said that after he becomes stronger, he will come look for you himself. He just wants you guys to be safe.” The village elder quickly spoke before stopping under Avian's penetrating stare.

”Village elder, was he alright? Is he safe right now? I hope that you can look after him for me. He is only five years old. I don't know what happened to him, but he is not a bad child. So please look after him.” Ashia fell to her knees as she spoke with a sobbing voice. The village elder got on one knee and patted her head gently.

”It's ok dear, I will look after him. Nothing will happen to him with me around, so just live happily and leave the rest to me.” The village elder whispered quietly to Ashia. Ashia got up slowly and nodded slightly towards the village elder before walking out with Avian and Nekaia.

After the three left, the village elder rushed towards Zuko and helped him up. Zuko, as a friend, I am telling you not to offend them. That woman is just not someone we can ever hope to take on. So please, for my sake, try to forget about it. Think about your remaining granddaughter, who was luckily not at the house when all of this happened. Take care of yourself so that she can also live knowing there is someone left.” With that said, the village elder quietly left Zuko in the hall. Zuko silently cried for his son's family. He couldn't do anything except take care of his last family.

”Arnin, you devil spawn! You are lucky my granddaughter was spared. If she wasn't, I would have chased you for eternity.” Zuko cursed under his breath before leaving the hall as well.