HEEEELLLOOOO!!! It's been a really long time. 5 years since I wrote this, holy crap! Unfortunately, I went on some sort of hiatus here and then eventually forgot about this, but I recently stumbled upon it again, and I've decided to continue it. Maybe I can even....finish it....
I'm getting ahead of myself, no promises. But either way, without further delay, here is the long awaited chapter, the continuation of Sparda's struggle. Chapter 5: Bonds.
Note, My writing style may have changed, so I apologize if there are flow issues. Also some chapters may be short. This one kinda is, even back when I wrote it 5 years ago. Enjoy.
Chapter 5: Bonds
The smoldering city loomed in the distance, plooms of smoke and ash rise ominously into the sky. Fires had broken out, casting a flickering glare against the distraught scene. Sparda stood heaving, bracing against a sizable rock. The young girl sits quietly on it, watching his broad shoulders rhythmically rise and fall. The pair had taken rest in a flowery field, contrasting heavily with the chaos and bloodshed in that doomed city. After a moment of peace, the girl finally asked. “
What’s your name?” The swordsman hesitated, thoughts of uncertainty reflected in his gaze. “
...Sparda.” The girl giggled. “
That’s a nice name. I’m Eva.” Sparda looked up at her. He recognized that name, but not from this human. That was the name of a fierce warlord, Visigora Eva of the Azerigorian Mountain Wraiths, a clan of demons whose name echoed fearfully through the underworld. It had taken 17 years to uproot them from the treacherous mountains, and Sparda deeply respected her for her unflinching resolve and unbaited loyalty.
A tiny smile cracked on his lips. “
That’s a good name. A strong one.” Eva broke into laughter. “
It’s not suppose to be strong, it’s suppose to be gentle.” Embarrassment washed over Sparda, another emotion he had no experience in. He glanced around uncomfortably, Eva noticed quickly and made effort to reassure him. “
Not that that’s a bad thing, I think it’s wonderful you said that. Thank you.” Sparda stood silently, staring solemnly at the ground. “
...Why are you so kind to me? I’m a demon, a being of death and war, yet you show such kindness--” Eva took Sparda’s hand. “
Because you are good.
It's a hard quality to find, and it's found best where it's least expected.” She smiled sweetly at him. Sparda blushed. His awkwardness only served him in her eyes. After an hour, Sparda finally stood up. “
Which way is the closest sanctuary?” Eva looked around, then pointed towards the north. “
Fortuna Castle is just through that pass. My grandmother and sister live there.” Sparda nodded. Eva was hoisted back onto his shoulders, and the pair made way towards the fortress.