Ashborn Primordial

Chapter 228: Orientation Camp, Part One (Maiya)

Maiya was once again surprised by the vastness of the Childrens resources. For an organization that relied primarily on donations from its members to survive, they certainly had deep pockets.

Which just means there are more crazies in this world than people think, Maiya thought with a shudder.

Maiya stood with her cabal at the central plaza of an abandoned town that lay at the southwest of Kinjals territory, near its border with Rani.

Once a thriving trade stop for merchants crossing the vast plains between Avi and Sonam, traffic had shifted when Jalasa rose to prominence. Since then, the backwater town of Bahurai had fallen by the wayside. Now, all that remained were crumbling buildings and overgrown grass. Hardly a place fit for habitation.

Which meant it was just about perfect for the Childrens purposes. The downtrodden grass formed trails between the buildings, and theyd done the bare minimum to make the buildings fit for human habitation.

Guided by Children ushers, Maiya, Yamal, and the Silent One entered what used to be an old barn, along with fifty other initiatesabout forty more than the barn was ever designed to fit.

Thankfully, the Sisters of Gray had prevented the fanatics from painting the walls and ceilings with blood. It was something of a signature of the Children. Should anyone stumble upon the town after theyd left, itd only cause problems. And, unlike the Pagan Order, the Children of Ash had no redeeming qualities whatsoever. No agreements with the heads of state to tolerate their presence.

Children fanatics had been slaughtered whenever they crossed the line. Which happened too often, in Maiyas opinion. The organization truly trod on thin ice.

Maiya spotted some familiar faces in the crowd. The group that had bullied her last time kept stealing glances her way, as did several others.

So. Word of that incidents gotten around, has it? Great Maiya thought, envisioning the heckling she was likely about to receive. The Initiation Camp was the perfect opportunity for people to mess with her. Not that it mattered. She had both the elements of surprise and superior means. They had no idea who they were up against. In fact, Maiya even looked forward to ititd been too long since her last fight.

Up in the loft, a bald Rector wearing a black robe and a hood spread his arms.

Welcome. Welcome, all! He spoke in a soft voice that nonetheless shushed the whispering crowd. You have done well to pass Initiation. All of you standing before me today have gained the favor of our god. You have potential!

This guy sounds more coherent than the other priests, dont you think? Yamal whispered into Maiyas ear.

She nodded. It was odd to see a Rector make this much sense. Then again, the priests had a habit of shedding their sanity at the first opportunity, so she reserved her judgment.

Yet that is all it is! the Rector said. Potential. To unlock it, you must all work diligently to rise through our ranks. And what better opportunity than this very camp? Those who do well shall soar to great heights! Here, you will form the bonds that will carry you. Grow, together, and become close to the Ash.

The Rector paused to revel in his own words.

Through a series of competitions, you will be evaluated along three categories. Knowledge of our Hallowed Doctrine, Closeness to the Ash, and Devotion. Come, Initiates! Your time to be bathed in the blood of our god is nigh!

With that, the Rector ended the speech, stepping down.

What do you think? Yamal asked.

Well, at least its not all a surprise, Maiya replied. By now, the priests fervor hardly even fazed her anymore.

By overhearing conversations between the Sisters of Gray, Maiya had gleaned some nuggets about the camp. Like how the first Trial would be the knowledge of doctrine. As such, all three of them had practically lived in the Children bases library, poring over the insane ramblings of the cult.

Despite the tedium, Maiya had hoped to glean some morsel explaining why the Children hated the Primordial to such a degree. It wasnt just lore to her anymore; the being they hated was none other than Vir, and any knowledge she came across might help him.

So many mysteries remained. Who was the Primordial? What was their purpose?

Shed learned a lot about blood ritualshow to slice open Ash Beasts to consecrate objects with their blood, how to execute a proper chantbut the only mention of the Primordial had been in relation to their god. The Prana Swarm said to lurk deep within the Ash.

The scriptures said that it was by their gods hand that the Primordial would die and that his very existence posed a threat to the world.

Sadly, knowledge of the Primordial wasnt what theyd be tested on. It was much more likely to be about the minutia of their rituals and the countless other mindless tasks. Knowledge that theyd all tediously memorized.

As for the other two topics

What do you think theyll have us do? Yamal asked.

The Silent One shook his head, his expression grave. Maiya felt similarly. She had this sinking feeling that their Devotion test would follow the Ash Beast encounter theyd had earlier.

We cant know, and theres no point speculating. Looks like well find out soon enough Maiya said, pointing to a lesser priest who cleared his throat.

The Trial of Knowledge shall commence immediately! the priest announced. All Initiates, follow me!

Good luck, Yamal said, his expression grim.

And to you, Maiya murmured.

How many goblets of blood must be poured upon the corpse before the Ritual of Purification can begin?

Five, Maiya replied immediately. Unless the ritual is being performed on the seventh, fourteenth, or twenty-first day of the month. In which case eight. One for each prong in the hallowed symbol of our god.

The priest nodded slowly. How many times must we circle the holy sacrifice and in what

Maiya sat across from the priest on the ground, cross-legged. The room was bare and empty, apart from the two of them.

The priest, like the others, smelled as though he hadnt bathed in months. His robes were tattered, and Maiya swore she saw caked blood on his skin, though she spotted no obvious injuries. His teeththe ones that hadnt fallen outwere black.

Also seven. Counterclockwise.

C-correct. The priests brows knitted, but then he suddenly smiled smugly. On which day of which month did the first Blessed Chosen

Fourth day, fifth month. He never returned from the Ash.

The mans smirk vanished.

What does our god guarantee to those of rank Rector and above?

Trick question, Maiya fired back. Our god guarantees nothing. Only by proving our devotion to the cause may we one day earn his divine blessing.

Say, can I ask you something? Maiya said. The priest didnt reply.

All these Trials. All this rigamarole. Its for finding candidates to send to the Ashen Realm, isnt it?

L-Lies! the priest spat immediately, his eyes wide with panic.

Maiya cocked a knowing brow. Please Even if Id been bluffing, your expression just gave it away. I wasnt, by the way. Bluffing.

The priest went silent. How do you know of this? Only our priests are trusted with this knowledge. How are you so well versed in our doctrine?

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Maiya gave the filthy man the prettiest smile she could muster. Why, Ive always been such a believer!

Maiya heaved a deep sigh of relief the moment she was outside. Shed passed the Trial with flying colors. Or at least, thats how she interpreted the crazed look the priest had given her when hed finished with his questions.

Being alone in a room with the fanatic gave her the creeps. Even with the orbs she hid within her robes.

Shed taken a calculated risk in bringing them. She couldnt say how the Children would behave to have a mejai in their ranks. Would they extol her power? Or would they accuse her of being a traitor?

Maiya couldnt afford to find out. And yet, she didnt dare go without them, either. While she might be able to take on a handful of thugs on her own, without her magic, itd be lucky if she escaped unscathed.

Especially when she had a fan club waiting for her.

An audience? To what do I owe the honor? Maiya asked sweetly, scanning the crowd of fifteen men whod waited in the ramshackle alley, waiting for her to leave her Trial.

W-what is the meaning of this? the priest said, shambling out behind Maiya.

The priest stepped forward with authority. Disperse, immediately, the lot of youaaah!?

Three of the thugs scooped the sickly man up and threw him outside.

Dont stick your nose where it dont concern you, they said. The priest scurried away, tripping over himself several times.

Not smart Maiya thought. The bullies might be able to cow a priest or two into submission, but when word got around of their antics, theyd be shut down. If not by a mob of zealots, by the Sisters of Gray for sure.

Guess that means I dont need to hold back, huh? But still

Maiya couldnt understand why theyd picked her, of all people. This felt too organized to be simple jealousy. And they were far too overt about it if all they wanted was to have their way with her. Had they uncovered her true identity? Was there a hidden mastermind behind this?

I dont recall doing anything to anger all of you to this degree. Someone mind telling me what this is all about? she asked.

Ah, well. One of our recruits here has gone to great trouble to rile up the gang against you, ysee. Hes a cute kid, so we just couldnt say no. Cmon, Camas. Why dont you say hi to your pretty girlfriend?

Camas? Do I know anyone by that Maiya froze as the black-haired boy emerged from the crowd of thugs.

Its him. Its really him!

Camas!? Maiya said in disbelief. Standing before him was none other than Akros son. Brijs resident bully. The one most directly responsible for ruining Virs life in the village.

What are you doing here? Maiya asked, instantly regaining her composure.

Hi, Maiya, Camas said with a malice-filled smile. Doing quite well for yourself, arent you? Youve become quite pretty.

Maiya scoffed. Gotta say, I never expect you, of all people. What wrecked your life so much that you ended up here?

Well, after you and Vir left, the village became a different place, yknow? Stifling. Some kid calling himself the Guardian of the Ash started making life a little miserable for the rest of us. Just so happened the Children came calling, and I said yes.

Oh, Yuma Hes as hopeless as ever, Maiya thought, shaking her head.

Dont you dare look at me like that! Camas yelled. Look at you! Youve had it all, ever since you were born! Seric spoon, this one. Camas gestured with his head to the crowd, addressing them as much as he was speaking to her. Never once known hardship in her life! Well, look at her now. Here, like the rest of us. No better.

Oh, Camas. If only you knew. If hed been subjected to the torturous training Riyan and Ira had put her through, hed have cracked long ago.

Tell you what, Camas said, sticking his hands in his pockets as he paced in front of his posse. Ill make you a deal.

A few more years and Maiya could see him taking over this ragtag gang; he always had a knack for leadership.

Too bad its so utterly wasted.

Oh? What are you proposing? Maiya asked, knowing fully well the deal he was about to offer.

Come with us. With me. Ill take you under my wing. Ill even protect you. Lots of bad people in this group. I can keep you safe.

Oh, wow. Is that right? Maiya asked, mustering every ounce of concentration she had not to break out into a fit of giggles. And, pray tell, what would you like in return?

Camas licked his lips, eyeing her. Oh, not much. Even under that shabby robe, I can tell youve gotten trim, eh? None of that fat you used to lug around.

Fat? Maiya blurted. Excuse me? I was never fat.

Camas raised his hands placatingly. Just meant to say, youre quite the beauty now, arent you? You can be my girlfriend. So, what do you say? Its a good deal, isnt it?

Maiya kept quiet for a moment, then smiled angelically. That sounds amenable, Maiya said, causing Camas face to light up in glee. I just have one small request to make first. If thats okay, I mean.

Oh, uh. Sure? Dont usually let people talk back to me, but, well. Its you. We go way back, yeah? What do you want?

Way back, Maiya echoed. Its nothing, really. Just, you remember Neel, dont you? The bandy? He was a good boy.

Er, yes? Do you want to bring him with you? Thats

Oh, Yuma, no! Just that, youll be so lucky! Youll get to be a good boy, just like him! All of you will, actually! Youll be my little minions! And, being good little boys, youll do everything I say. Because Ill be the leader of this pathetic little gang. Youll not speak unless spoken to. Youll jump when I say jump and youll bark when I order you to. And in return? I promise not to slaughter all of you right now.

A droplet of water fell from the sky, and everyone heard it. The alleyway went deathly silent, and Camas had turned as red as Maiyas hair.

Oh, gods. Oh, gods! Yamal panicked. I have to get help!

Hed only just finished his Trial of Knowledge. He thought hed done pretty well. All thanks to Maiyas coaching, of course. He couldnt wait to tell her the good news. He walked the ancient alley with a skip in his step, not even minding the stench of sewage that pervaded most of the abandoned town.

His spirits were simply too high for such a triviality to bring him down.

Will she think well of me?

And then, just as he thought nothing could ruin his mood, itd come crumbling down as hed spied a hostile gang surrounding Maiya.

Somebody! Anybody! Shes all alone!

His first instinct was to burst onto the scene like some hero, but Yamal wiped the delusion from his mind. He was useless in a fight, and he knew it. No, he had to get the Silent One. Only that giant could handle this.

Yamal backed away, then sprinted. He searched every alley. He knocked on every door. His desperation grew with each failure.

I really am worthless. I cant fight. I cant even find one man, even when hes the easiest person to spot in the whole town!

And then he saw him. The man who stood a head and a half taller than everyone else.

Quick! Yamal shouted, pushing past the other Initiates and grabbing his hand. Maiya! Shes in danger!

Yamal turned and ran, and the Silent One followed.

It was only when they arrived at the scene that Yamal breathed easily.

Thank goodness! The fight hasnt started yet. We made it in time!

His relief lasted right up to the moment Maiya's lips parted and she spoke.

Youll not speak unless spoken to.

Huh? Yamal swore his misheard.

Youll jump when I say jump and youll bark when I order you to.

What is she saying!? Is she mad? At this rate, theyll

Yamal exchanged a look with the Silent One. The big man stared at Maiya, a look of intrigue on his face.

We need to go! Yamal hissed. We have to help!

And in return? Maiya said, I promise not to slaughter all of you right now.

Yamals heart threatened to jump out of his throat as he saw the goons brandish their talwars, maces, daggers, and spikes.

On second thought, a dark-haired boy at the front snarled. I think Im just going to kill you instead.

The gang rushed forth and then Maiya disappeared.

One moment she was there, and the next? Gone.

Yamal had never seen anyone move so quickly in his life. It wasnt human. It was as if Vera herself had possessed the girl, blessing her with divine agility.

He only found her by the scream of a man who was sent stumbling. His head hit a brick wall, and he slumped over. Whether dead or merely unconscious, Yamal couldnt say.

Another soon followed. Then another. Through it all, Maiya was nowhere to be seen.

When Yamal finally found her, he found twin daggers in her hands, which she wielded like a master seamstress did her sewing needles.

Maiya poked, slashed, and cut with such finesse and speed that Yamal almost mistook her movements for a well-practiced dance.

He couldnt even tell when and where her strikes landedher motions so fluid that it all just looked like a whirlwind to him.

Yamal stood frozen as the goons were cut down. Bones crunched. Figures slumped, and through it all, Maiya moved with deadly grace.

Before long, there was only one left. The boy from before. The fool whod announced so daringly that hed kill Maiya.

KillMaiya?Her? Yamal thought wryly. What an absurdity.

Maiya approached the boy slowly, twirling a dagger in her palm.

So, Camas? What were you going to do to me, again? Im just a dumb, weak little girl, you see. My memory is just so fleeting. Can you help refresh this girls memory?

A dark splotch appeared on the boys pants, and an acrid smell filled the air, punctuating the existing smells of urine and dung.

H-How? M-Maiya? Is it really

Is it me? Maiya laughed derisively. Not the helpless little girl you thought I was, huh? Is it so hard to believe? Well, I cant blame you. Even I wouldnt believe me if you told me Id end up like this a year ago.

Please dont kill me!

Kill you? Why, Id never! No, death would be too easy for someone like you. Your punishment must be more severe! Much more severe.

Yamal gulped. Was this truly the same Maiya he knew? She had every right to be as callous as she was, but hed thought her gentler. Incapable of such brutality.

W-wha-what w-w-will y-you d-d-do

What will I do to you? Well, for starters, how about this?

Maiya slammed her leg down on Camas shin, breaking it with a crisp snap.

The boy howled in pain.

That was for me. For saying all those nasty things, and for looking at me like I was beneath you.

For looking at By Adinat! Yamal gulped. Is this my fate if I anger her?

Maiya stomped up to Camas, placing her boot between his legs.

And this? This is for Vir.

The boys eyes shot wide in terror.

No! N-no! PLEASE!

His scream tore through the alley, and Yamal was sure it reached the farthest reaches of town. For it was the most terrible wail of pain that Yamal had ever heard.

Yamals whole body shivered as a cold sweat broke out. Oh, Yuma! Oh, Adinat! She isnt a woman. Shes a beast wearing human skin!

Maiya was simply far too dangerous to grow close to. Yamal understood that now. To do so would spell his doom.

At the same time, he pitied her. People like Maiya were forever destined to be alone. For what freak of nature would ever be comfortable being friendly with such a monster? With The Crusher.

He couldnt think of a single sane individual who would.

Maiya left the boy there, clutching his crotch, and walked over.

Oh, hi, Maiya said casually with a wave. Didnt notice you guys there. How about we grab a bite to eat? Im famished.

Yamal fell to his knees, laughing like a broken doll.

Maiya didnt need help. She hadnt ever needed their help. For what use were normal people like him and the Silent One, next to a highly accomplished mejai like her?