Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

In a foreign dark forest surrounded by dense trees and foliage stands a lone boy. The ground is covered with a light fog, a river cutting through the mist, and within that river is a child. A young boy about 10 years old with pale skin, hair white as snow tied into a low ponytail with white striking eyes. A dark feather-like cloak covers his shoulders, reaching all the way down past his knees. He wears dark clothing, his shoes and pants soaked with water. His right hand is gripping the hilt of a sword that is resting on his left side. His hand is tense, ready to pull the sword out at any moment as he eyes the creatures surrounding him and his companions. His companions lay on land, consisting of a woman and twin children. They are bundled together under a large tree sleeping.

“At least they’re finally getting some sleep.” The boy thinks as he continues to eye the creatures surrounding them, threatening them with his sword if they dared any closer.

“Threatening these creatures would be easier if they stopped staring at me like that.” The boy grumbles in his mind. The creatures in question are many. In the water, air, and land in many different forms, and all of them staring at him and his group with concerned, pitying glances.

He and his group are all injured, him being the worst off, though this confuses the boy about the creatures. They are easy prey in a foreign land, these creatures should be attacking them and yet it seems like they are helping them. The ones in the water and a floating pink creature have been diverting some of the water away from him, and the ones on land have formed some protection circle around the group as a large horse with a horn and purple, blue mane somehow keeps the fire going. Though the horse does tend to glare at the woman and glances at him with concern.

The boy sighs, “At least they know to keep their distance.” As he turns his gaze to the foreign night sky.

He closes his eyes, “How did it come to this?”

~~~ (Months Earlier) ~~~

In a dreary, desolate town there seemed to be life in the middle of it. Near a stone well, there was a group of people sitting around a metal bench. The air is filled with chatter and laughter. On the bench, an elder man started to cough while laughing.

A tall man with sharp slicked-back black hair patted the elder man on his back. “Now, now my good sir. I don’t mean to send you to an early grave.” Said the tall man as his red eyes glinted mischievously.

The elder man waved him off as he took a few deep breaths and regained his breathing. “Ah. Ahaha. Sorry, I don’t mean to scare you but I haven’t had a good laugh in years.” Said the elder as he adjusted his mask to wipe away the tears that escaped his eyes. The elder looked towards the boy that was sitting next to him, the boy looked tense as though he was about to spring into action. The elder patted his head gently, “I’m okay, no need to worry.”

The boy seemed to slightly relax though it was difficult to tell as the boy's hollow eye sockets of his mask seemed to stare endlessly, though his head tilts between the elder and the tall man was noticeable.

“Oh come now young Ghost. I have done no harm to Elder…at least not in the way I’m known for.” Said the tall man, sending a sharp charming smile toward the boy. The boy huffs but relaxes as he combs back some of his white hair behind his mask.

“No harm done?” Said a different man with a wider build and looking accusatory towards the tall man. “How about my pride, Grimm? You certainly harmed that.” He huffed as he pulled his hood down to comb back his black hair as he glared at the tall man, his other hand clenching around the wine glass he was holding.

“Oh please Brumm, we both know it wasn’t that bad and those people ended up paying you extra geo because of how sorry they were.” Grimm said as he brought his own wine glass up to drink from, side-eyeing Brumm. “Besides, I didn’t hear you complain afterward so I assume you were heavily compensated.” Grimm smirked behind his wine glass as he eyed Brumm.

Brumm tensed slightly before relaxing and taking a sip from his own wine, “Very much so.”

The group burst into giggles over the absurdity that Brumm was involved in. A woman with large wild brown hair and half a mask resting on her face spoke, “Kekeke, I remember that. Though you never told me exactly how much you got.” The woman pouted as she looked at Brumm with fake tears in her eyes.

“And you never will.” Replied Brumm curtly as he downed the rest of his wine in one gulp. The woman only huffed but returned to her happy demeanor drinking her wine as well.

The young boy known as Ghost gave the group a once over. Warmth swelled within him to see that the people he grew to care about were happy, even if his expression did not change. These moments were a miracle to Ghost. To know that his life was not always surrounded by death and violence, though he couldn’t help but feel a little lost. The people around him spoke of their past, funny and caring stories about their experiences before living in the now-abandoned kingdom. It confused him how it seems that in their pasts, they threw caution to the wind and did not care about the possible lurking danger. Even now as they sit together, Ghost still kept his senses with him in case something did happen. Even a few people within the group still kept their guard. It was how he was raised, taught not to let his guard down even in moments of peace. His own harsh experiences were his lessons on that. His past, before he came to the kingdom of Hallownest, was not a kind one. Sure he was able to retell a few good moments but that was about it. He never allowed himself to get caught off guard as Brumm did in Grimm’s story.

Ah, yes. The story of how two children had run into Brumm, only to be bulldozed into the ongoing performance by the children's parents who were chasing them. Apparently, the parents did not realize that their children had stopped and had a head-on collision with Brumm, somehow accidentally spilling their drinks on him in the process. Their force was enough to send poor Brumm, covered in sticky liquid, into the performance only for him to get tangled up in wires and hoisted up into the air. Right at that moment, the cannons had fired confetti and feathers all over Brumm. The audience and a few of the performers burst out laughing at Brumm as he hung upside down covered in feathers and confetti. Grimm had to cut Brumm down and helped him off to the sidelines where the family still was. The parents had come over to apologize profusely only for one of their children to stick their stuffed toy bug onto Brumm’s chest and loudly claim he was now a proud father. It was at this point that Grimm couldn’t keep a straight face and Elder was dying of laughter with the others.

This is what Ghost did not understand. The Brumm he grew to know, will never let such a situation happen. The Brumm he knows is vigilant and is very skilled in observation. Even during performances, Brumm is able to keep a keen eye on every customer and performer. Therefore if a situation were to happen, Brumm would already be there to stop it. This is what Ghost does not understand. Surely their past couldn’t have been that different from now. Even for Ghost who has traveled to different places, he always seems to have the same problems to experience. Sure there were a lot more people than there were here, but there had always been a sense of danger. From his earliest memories, Ghost has always been alerted to danger. Even now he could relate his past to the present day, and there’s not much of a difference. So the question is, just what was so different in their lives for them not to be cautious?

While Ghost was stuck in his turmoil, another person from the group took notice of his plight. “Ghost, honey, are you alright there? You seem to be lost in your thoughts.” Said a tall woman with light brown hair tied into a high ponytail that splits off into two curls. Her gray mask only covers her eyes and there's a sharp point outwards where her nose is. Though her blue eyes are visible and they show concern towards Ghost.

Disrupted by her question, everyone shifted their gaze onto the boy. Ghost slightly tensed as he became the center of attention, he didn’t mean to shift their happy moods. Ghost turns and inspects each one of them. Iselda is the one that spoke to him. She is a kind and caring woman to those that she cares about and could be fierce when she needs to be. Her husband Cornifer is sitting next to her. He’s a plump man that has a kick to his step when mapping the ruins of Hallownest. Ghost has met him many times and greatly enjoys his tales about the land around them. Next to them is Sly, a short lean man that Ghost is oddly taller than him. Sly seems to be obsessed with geo but there's a sense of familiarity that Ghost gets from him that makes him feel safe. Then there's the Grimm Troupe; Divine with her wild hair and an unhinged look, Brumm the stoic and yet mother hen, Grimm the master of the troupe, and then Grimma, Grimm’s child that Ghost somehow helped conceive with his blood and was currently sleeping on her father’s back. And finally, there was Elder, the first kind person that Ghost had met when he came here and dotes on Ghost as a grandfather would. Ghost had grown to care about these people and even the others that were currently not present. But Ghost couldn’t help but feel like he was missing something. He was surrounded by people he cares about and yet he couldn’t ignore the nagging feeling in the back of his mind. Telling him that he should be out and about getting rid of the infection as fast as he can so they could return to better lives.

“Better lives…?” Ghost thought, “What does a better life even look like?” Is it a life with no violence? A life that’s not surrounded by corpses? A life without the constant nagging feeling that something or someone is going to betray him? A life without the constant thoughts of when he was going to die?

Ghost had let his mind wander again. He was only brought back to his senses when he saw movement in the corner of his eye. He put his hand on his sword and turned quickly only to stop abruptly as he realized it was only Elder with his hand stretched out and a frown on his face.

Ghost slowly lets go of his sword and looks around. Each person, except Divine, is looking at him with concern. Ghost bows his head in shame. He didn’t mean to do this. They were all happy a moment ago and now because of him they're upset and he almost hurt Elder. He can’t believe he had allowed himself to get so lost in his head, if he had been any slower Elder would have been hurt.

Ghost felt a hand on his shoulder, head, and knee. Looking up he saw Elder, Grimm, and Iselda had moved closer to him. Elder had his hand on Ghost's shoulder while Grimm was behind him and patting his head. Iselda had moved closer and was patting his knee.

Iselda spoke up, “Ghost I didn’t mean for you to shut down on us. I just want to know if you're okay. You seemed to be thinking really hard about something.” She patted his knee once more to make her intentions clear.

Grimm, who was now brushing Ghost’s hair with his fingers, spoke next “Yes, I too, wish to know what exactly it was that got our little Ghost so distracted.”

Ghost decided it was best to just be blunt and ask his question. So with a quiet voice, he asked, “What is a better life?”

His question seemed to stun the group, as they all froze staring at him. Ghost just patiently waits for his answer as he stares back at them.

Finally, it was Grimm that broke the silence. “What exactly do you mean Ghost?” Grimm says cautiously, still petting the boy's head in a slow manner. “What do you think is a better life?”

Ghost tilted his head in thought and soon spoke, “Well I think a better life would be where the infection is gone. So that way no one has to worry about losing themselves.”

Grimm paused, “...Well, yes, that is better but I meant for yourself. What will you do when the infection is gone?”

Now it was Ghosts' turn to pause. “What will he do when the infection is gone?” Ghost is pretty sure he might die when he fights the source of the infection but if there was a chance for him to live…What will he do? He doesn’t have a family to return to nor does he have a plan to do anything. He was just following a tugging feeling that led him here but that's about it. What else is there for him?

“Ghost?” It was Iselda, “Don’t you have a family to go back to?”

Ghost shook his head no.

“What about your home?” Now it was Sly that spoke, “I’m sure you got valuables to go back to.”

Ghost shook his head again, he technically didn’t have a home.

“Oh!” Cornifer suddenly exclaimed, “I remember now. You said something about finding your siblings right? I remember how you told me that you found your half-sister and might have full-blooded siblings, or something. That’s something you could do.”

Ghost shrinks into himself, he did find them and it was not a good situation, “Um…yeah I did find a bunch of their corpses and one is currently filled with infection. I’m not sure what to do with him yet.”

“Oh by the pale king! I’m so sorry Ghost!” Cornifer said as panic and concern took over him.

“It's okay. I didn’t fully explain.” Said Ghost as he put his hands up trying to soothe Cornifer. “Sorry.”

“There’s nothing for you to be sorry about Ghost.” Said Brumm as he walked over. Brumm kneels in front of Ghost and looks him straight in the eyes. “Ghost, what was your life like before you came to Hallownest? Be honest with me.”

Everyone in the group seemed tense as they waited for Ghost to answer. Even Divine showed some concern. The boy took a deep breath in and answered, “Honestly there’s not much of a difference between now and then, except maybe fewer bodies.”

Silence hung over the group as each person was too shocked to reply. This boy had never had a good life. Each one was trying to comprehend how that was possible. Sure their lives were not perfect but they at least had some semblance of safety or at least the reassurance that they were safe. But this boy had never had the chance to experience that. Always on edge for the danger that may or may not come but prepared for it anyway.

The silence was broken by Sly, “No wonder why you're such a great warrior. Your only experience is the battlefield and barely anything else.” The entire group turned to stare at Sly as he moved to stand. “But that doesn’t mean you hafta continue this way of life.”

Sly moved to stand next to Brumm looking at Ghost. “You're still young so there’s still a chance for you to experience it.”

Elder clapped his hands excitedly, “Yes! Exactly! You’re always rushing down into the ruins, maybe all you need is a break.”

“Oooooo. We can have a slumber party!” Exclaimed Divine as she started to jump up and down in excitement. “We’ll first have tea and then we can brush each other's hair, gossip, and paint our nails. It’s gonna be so much fun! EEeeeeeeeeee.” Divine was squealing with joy at her own idea.

Brumm on the other hand was not impressed. “Absolutely not. The last time you threw a ‘slumber party’ there was a carter in the ground and one of your guests disappeared.”

Divine stopped and threw her hands up in the air exaggeratedly, “Ugh, that was not my fault though. How was I supposed to know that mixing two supposedly dangerous alcohol together would cause an explosion.”

“IT WAS LABELED ON THE BOTTLE, DIVINE!” Yelled Brumm as the two now started bickering against each other, as the rest of the group was chuckling at them.

Ghost saw movement in the shadows, “Huh, when did those two get here?”

As the group was focused on the argument, they didn’t notice the shadows creeping closer to them. Other than Ghost who was watching but did not intervene. When the shadows grew closer, one of them leaped into the air and threw a sharp needle into the ground separating the bickering pair. The disruption caused the group to spring into action. Brumm pulled out his two swords, while Divine’s nails elongated into sharp points. Grimm summoned his red fire to surround the remaining people as they all tensed. Ghost just smiled as he stared into the dust cloud, “She always has to make a dramatic entrance doesn’t she.”

Once the dust settles, it reveals a young girl with red hair tied into a high ponytail and standing on top of the needle. She jumps off the needle, her pink cloak fluttering in the air revealing her four arms as she grabs her weapon and glares at the group.

From behind them, a voice speaks up, “Um Lady Hornet, was that really necessary?” The group turns and sees an older boy with white hair and wearing an odd flat-looking hat approaching them.

Hornet huffs, “Of course it was necessary. It was either this or continue to listen to their consistent blather, and that is not acceptable.”

As the group begins to relax, Ghost runs up to Hornet and hugs her. “Hornet, Quirrel. What are you doing here?”

Hornet hugs Ghost back, “We have come to inform you of our progress on your request.”

Before Ghost could speak Quirrel had come over and hugged Ghost as well, “But we overheard your conversation and decided it was best to stay and listen…Well until Hornet grew frustrated and intervened.”

Hornet huffed once more, crossing her upper arms across her chest while her lower hands went to her waist. “As I have said, this is the better option. Besides…” Hornet trails off looking at the group, “Their plan for Ghost would have never worked in the first place.”

The group gave off resounding ‘huh’s’ as they stared confusedly at Hornet. Hornet glares before sharply turning her head at Ghost, “I know my little brother well. He will not rest. If you actually want your plan to work, he will need to leave Hallownest altogether.”

The group was silenced by her words as each of them realized that would be the only way for Ghost to truly know a life without constant danger. But none of them would actually leave Hallownest, and even if they did, they would have nowhere to go. Elder and Sly lived their lives in the kingdom, Iselda knows that Cornifer will not leave until he has completed his mapping of the ruins, and while the Grimm Troupe could leave, they can not just follow Ghost nor can they take Ghost with them because they know he would be too on edge the entire time. Hornet and Quirrel would not leave either as they are basically bound to Hallownest. With Quirrel trying to regain his memories of Hallownest and Hornet needs to protect the kingdom from succumbing to the infection. There was nothing they could do other than try and give their support, but in the end, Ghost would be alone.

Before Ghost could speak his mind that he didn’t need such a life, Quirrel spoke, “There may be a way for Ghost to go without just wandering the wilds.” This caught everyone's attention as they stared at Quirrel, who only turned and looked at Hornet. After a minute of confused staring, Hornet perked up, “Oh right, the reason we are here.” Hornet pulls out a piece of paper from under her cloak and gives it to Ghost. “As you have requested of us, we were able to find where Myla’s family is. You were right when you said that she is infected but Quirrel and I were able to make her coherent enough to tell us where she lives. She also expressed her concerns for her family and wishes she could send someone to make sure they are okay.”

As Hornet spoke, Ghost looked over the piece of paper seeing an address, a list of the family members which were only four people, and oddly enough the song that Myla always sings. Ghost assumes that Quirrel was the one that wrote down everything that came out of Myla’s mouth. As Ghost looked back up, Quirrel spoke next. “Yes, and as you can see, her family lives quite a ways away from Hallownest. Meaning that you can go and make sure everything is alright.”

At this Grimm speaks up, “Yes this is perfect. Think of it like taking a break except that you might be gone for a little longer. Trust me when I say you need it.” Grimm smiles as the rest of the group murmurs in agreement that Ghost needs a break.

Ghost just stares at them and the paper, “Is it really okay to leave?” Before he could even voice his words, Hornet speaks, “Yes Ghost it is completely fine. We will still be here when you are gone and we will still be here when you come back. You deserve a break.”

Ghost looks at her and the group with tears in his eyes, maybe he does deserve this. Ghost nods his head, “Ok I’ll go. How long should I stay there?”

Hornets looks back at the group and then to him, “It says that Myla has two younger twin sisters right?” Ghost nods his head. “Well, there's your answer. I don’t want you to come back until those girls can take care of themselves.”

“WHAT?!” Ghost yells completely shocked, “But that could take years!”

“Then I won’t expect to see you in a few years.” With that said Hornet turns around and walks away. “Come I will help you pack.”

Ghost is unresponsive as he just stands there watching his half-sister walk away. The rest of the group decides that now is a good time to separate and promises to all come back together to see Ghost off on his journey.

A few days pass and Ghost is ready to leave. He gets an earful from Hornet for not having many belongings to pack, and a tearful goodbye from Corinfer while Iselda pats him on his head and tells him to be safe. Elder hugs him for a while and says he’ll always remember him through the delicate flower that Ghost had gifted him. Sly gives him a pat on the back and tries to convince him to spend more geo before he goes. The Grimm Troupe gave Ghost a little show before he left. Brumm was acting like a mother hen making sure he was ready, while Divine said that she wanted souvenirs and that they were definitely going to have a slumber party when he comes back. This started another argument between Brumm and Divine. Grimm had come over and scooped up Ghost from the ground and hugged him. Ghost hugged back relishing in the warmth that Grimm naturally gives off. While they were hugging, Ghost feel’s something bite into his arm. He pulls back only to see Grimma chewing on his arm cutely. Grimm and Ghost both laugh as Grimm pulls Grimma off Ghost and sets him to the ground. “Don’t worry about Grimma. I got her.” With that Grimm walks up to the bickering pair and waves goodbye. Quirrel then walks up to Ghost and gives him a small bag where Ghost can store small little trinkets or snacks. They hug goodbye and say that they will meet again.

Ghost and Hornet walk to the kingdom edge together in silence. The silence is nice and comforting to Ghost, allowing his mind to ease just a bit. Once they get to the edge, Hornet speaks up.

“Little brother, are you alright? I know that you are stewing on too many thoughts.” Hornet turns to him and puts a hand on his shoulder. “Speak your mind little Ghost.”

Even with the short amount of time that they have been together, Hornet already knows him so well. So he says, “Why are you doing all of this? It could have been easier just to spend a few days with everyone in the town and yet…All this just seems unnecessary.”

Hornet stares at him a good long minute before speaking, “Because Ghost I know that after you go and break the seals of the dreamers, the infection will get worse and you’ll never have this chance again. I thank you again for heeding my warnings and investigating first before doing something irreversible.” Hornet looks off to the side to hide her emotions.

Ghost remembers the first time he encountered the dreamers. He had no idea who they were as they warned him not to break their seals and then the second time they met, they tried to kill him. He didn’t understand why until he met Hornet, who admittedly tried to kill him the first time too, but explained who they were and his connection to them. The first time he physically came upon a dreamer was Hornet’s mother. He understood that his purpose was to end the infection and in order to do that he had to break the seals that the dreamers had, which was basically killing them. Ghost had backed away from Hornet’s mother and instead approached Hornet who was hiding in the shadows at that time. He had said that he didn’t want to do this yet and instead wanted to understand his role before committing to something so important. After that Hornet was very grateful to him and their relationship has gotten much better.

“…And besides.” Hornet's voice cuts through his thoughts, “We both know that when you do fight the infection…there’s a high possibility of you not coming back.”

Ghost looked away, he had come to the same conclusion. There’s a very high possibility that Ghost will die when he fights the source of the infection. “Isn’t that why I should stay? I have the resolve to end the infection, even if it kills me. If I leave and live this peaceful life, I may not ever return.”

Hornet huffs and looks back at him with a soft smile, “We both know that’s a lie. You keep your promises well Ghost, so I have no doubt that you will return.” Hornet moves to hug him, “And besides you should know what this life is like since you are fighting for it for the others. Even I know what a peaceful life is like and you should too.”

Ghost melts into the hug and whispers a soft thank you to Hornet. When they part, Ghost makes a promise to return and finish what he started. With that, Ghost leaves and begins his journey to find Mylas' family.

Oddly enough it was very easy to find Myla’s family. Her family lived in a small rural town called Rolling Hill, which was about a two-week journey from Hallownest. Though that could be because Ghost is very good at surviving in the wilds. As Ghost approached the town he now understood why it had such a name. Literal rolling hills were everywhere with scattered homes on top of them. In the center was a quaint little cluster that most likely served as a marketplace. Ghost headed towards the marketplace with the piece of paper in his hands and determination in his eyes. As Ghost walked through the little shops, he was trying to find someone who could help him and not brush him off at first glance. The place was a bit crowded, possibly due to an afternoon rush as the sun was about to set, but he eventually came across a flower stand. There was a pretty blonde girl with a round white mask over her eyes, and she was packing up the store. Ghost rushed over to her, gaining her attention.

“Oh, I’m sorry little one I just closed the shop. But I’ll be here bright and early tomorrow so you can come by then.” Said the girl as continued to put stuff away.

Ghost shook his head, “Uh, no I’m not here to buy anything. I was just hoping you could help me find this address.” Ghost holds the piece of paper up to the girl.

The girl takes the paper and reads it over. Soon after the girl is surprised and looks back at the boy. “You know Myla?”

Ghost is taken back, this girl also knows Myla? “Um yes, she has requested me to come and check on her family. Are you a friend of hers?”

The girl puts her hands on her waist as an annoyed expression crosses her face. “Of course, she would send someone else to go and check on them then do it herself. I swear when she comes back I’m giving her a piece of my mind.” The girl was glaring into an empty space until she realized that Ghost was still standing there. She awkwardly coughs into her hand and clears her throat. “Um, yeah. I’m her friend as we went to the same school together. Anyway, I can show you where her family lives but I have been told that her mother is ill with some kind of sickness. Not sure what but everyone was told to stay away from her.”

“That doesn’t sound good.” Ghost thought as he is hoping it was not what he thinks it is. The girl gives him the directions but before Ghost could leave, he sees a concerned expression on the girl's face. He stops and asks what is wrong.

The girl hunches in a bit into herself before speaking, “It's not that anything is wrong. It's just…Ugh, I just can’t believe she went to Hallownest! I mean how many times does the council have to tell people. Hallownest is nothing but a cursed place and those who go there are forever doomed! I mean how stupid can she be! Just to get fancy riches that may not even exist in the first place! Honestly just how stupid does a person has to be to do something so suicidal. I mean I get it that her mom went and came back but, she was never the same! And now she’s doing the same thing! Ugh when I get my hands on her I’m going to-”

“What?” Ghost said, interrupting her rant. “Myla’s mother went to Hallownest and survived?”

The girl was a bit flustered before calming down and answering his question. “Yeah, her mom apparently lived there before coming out here to live with her dad as they started to have a family. Though after we heard that the kingdom had been destroyed, Myla’s mom became obsessed with trying to go back but the council forbade it saying that it was too dangerous. Though from what Myla told me, her mom ignored them and went anyway. When she came back she was a different person. She seemed so upset and told everyone that Hallownest had become a death trap. She went home after that but soon became sick. The council said she must have gotten it from the kingdom and told everyone not to interact with her unless they wish to become sick too. Though I find that so unfair because as a result, no one is helping them, just avoiding them like her entire family is a plague. Maybe that's why Myla left? She did say she was going to find enough riches to help her family and become one of the richest people in our town.” The girl has a sad smile on her face as she sighs, “I just wish I could see her.”

Ghost feels bad for her and gives the girl a pat on her arm. He says that Myla is fine as she can be (if fighting off the control of the infection counts as being fine, but she didn’t need to know that) and that hopefully, she will return soon. The girl gives Ghost a smile before sending him off to Myla’s house, with a bouquet of flowers that she 'did not' give to him.

Ghost now has some information about what is going on. First is that Myla is concerned about her family and that her mother possibly has the infection that consumed Hallownest, not good. Second is that the council may or may not be aware of this specific infection, hopefully not, considering their judgment on isolating Myla’s family. Third is that he hopes that the council is not aware of his arrival for that he may cause more problems since he too came from Hallownest. “And Hornet wants me to stay until Myla’s siblings can take care of themselves. With this situation that might be sooner than later sadly.” Ghost thought sadly. It seemed like he was right. Everywhere he goes he always encounters the same problems. He just hopes he can help as much as he can before he has to leave again.

Ghost comes upon a cozy little two-story house with a large yard, a small shed off to the side, and a sign in front of the yard warning people of sickness. “Mmmhhh. They even went so far as to put a sign-up.” Ghost shook his head and went up to the door. Ghost knocked on the door and waited with bated breath…And waited…and waited. “Mmh, is no one home?” Ghost looked up to the sky and saw only a few streaks of light. It was basically night so someone should be home, right? So Ghost knocked again and patiently waited. Finally, he heard something.

What seemed to be a man’s voice could be heard through the door and coming closer. “Chris, how many times do I have to tell you? My kids were nowhere near your house! So please…” At this moment the door opened and revealed a sturdy man with short brown hair and fiery, yet tired, green eyes. The moment the man's eyes land on Ghost, his expression fades into confusion. “...lea..ve?” Even the confidence in his voice left.

Ghost stands straight and presents the man with the bouquet of flowers, confusing him even more. “Good evening sir, my name is Ghost. I have come here at the request of Myla.” The man grabs the bouquet as his eyes light up upon hearing Myla’s name. “She wishes to know that you are in good health.”

The man tries to form words but is apparently too stunned to speak with Ghost. Ghost tries to make sense of the man’s hand gestures and for a moment Ghost believes the man might not let him inside because of the sickness that the mother has. So in turn Ghost speaks, “If this is about the sickness then do not fret, I am immune to many illnesses.”

This seems to get the man to snap out of his confusion as he straight away says, “The sign is there isn’t.” He said it as more of a fact than a question but Ghost nodded confusedly. The man sighs and moves past Ghost into the yard and yanks the sign out of the ground. Ghost watches as the man takes the sign to the shed and throws it in. “Huh, so they have been putting it there without his consent.”

The man walks back to Ghost and apologizes, “I’m sorry about that but um, please come inside. You're Myla’s friend right so please make yourself at home.” The man gestures for Ghost to come inside and so he does, taking a glance at everything. The door leads to an open hallway with stairs leading to the second floor on the right side and on the left was the living room that leads into the kitchen/dining room. In the living room, there were two kids by the window, they ran to the middle of the room when they caught his gaze. The man came in and shut the door. He walked into the middle of the living room and called out for some more people.

“Honey, Sill. Can you come to the living room?” The man called, as the two children are now hiding behind his legs and staring at him. “We have a…guest.” At this sounds were coming from the kitchen, a moment later and two women came out into the living room. One of the women has dirty blonde hair that's pulled up into a bun and is smaller in height than the other woman. The other woman is as tall as the man and has long brown hair tied into a single braid, just like Myla. Both the women gave a pause as they stared at Ghost like they were trying to understand that a person was standing there. After a moment Ghost felt like it would be appropriate to speak but the tall woman beat him to it.

“Hon? Who is this and why are they here?” said the tall woman towards the man. “Ah. So that is Myla’s mother and father, but who is the other woman?” Ghost thinks as he was only informed of Myla’s parents and siblings and no one else.

“Well this is Ghost, he’s a friend of Myla’s apparently.” The man said as he was gesturing towards Ghost who had only given a small wave towards them. Before either of the women could speak, the children spoke up.

“Your big sis’s friend?” Said one on the right. The left one continued, “There's no way your friends with big sis, you're too small.” The right one again, “Yeah! You're teenie weenie.” The twins started to chuckle at their own jokes.

Ghost sighed, of course, he got made fun of for his size but he at least had a good counter thanks to Myla. “You’re right I am small…” Ghost started as the twins now stare at him with suspicion, “...But at least I didn’t try to bury the other alive to the point that their own sister decided to make a whole song about it.” Ghost could feel the air of smugness around him as both the twins dropped their jaws in shock. After a moment of silence both the twins ran up to him and started to pull on his arms.

“I CAN’T BELIEVE SHE TOLD YOU!” Said the one on the right, pulling his arm down. “YEAH, IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE A SECRET!” said the left one as she was jumping up and down with his arm. The twins stopped and at the same time pulled him down towards them to scream, “YOU CAN’T TELL ANYONE OK! PROMISE?!”

Ghost blinked at them, both of the twins were staring seriously at him. He pulled his arms back and said, “Alright, alright I promise not to tell anyone but, it is a pretty good song though.”

The twins let him go and grinned at him, “Good” said the left one. “I guess this does mean your big sis’s friend.” said the right one. Then at the same time, “Does this mean we can call you big brother?” Both the twins somehow had twinkles in their eyes staring hopefully at Ghost.

Ghost just chuckled and patted both of them on their heads, “Of course, I always wanted little sisters.” The girls squealed and hugged him very tightly.

Laughter could be heard from the living room and looking up it was Myla’s father and mother laughing. The other woman seemed to be glaring for some reason. Before Ghost could think more about it Myla’s father spoke, “Well I guess that throws any suspicion we had of you out the window, but I’m glad. Come on, let's move this to the dining table, I bet everyone is hungry.”

The twins each grab one of his hands and pull him into the kitchen. There's a table full of food and six chairs, two on each side and a single chair at each end of the table. Ghost was led to one of the end chairs as the twins each took the chair next to him, making him sit in the middle of them. Myla’s father sat across from him after putting the flowers he had gotten him away, as Myla’s mother took the seat to the right of him and the other woman sat on his left. As they were all seated, plates were passed and everyone began to grab the food in the middle, filling their plate. Ghost did the same except with fewer amounts.

The father cleared his throat. “I just realized we haven’t introduced ourselves. I’ll go first and the twins will go last because I said so.” Apparently, both the twins were ready to protest until their father’s last statement and deflated back into their chairs. The father cleared his throat one more time, “Well my name is Tylo and as you already have figured it out I'm the father of those two little monsters and Myla. And this over here is my lovely wife.” Tylo gestured to the woman on his right.

The woman smiled and replied, “Hi, I’m lovely wife, nice to meetcha.” The twins snicker, as Tylo just looks back at his wife with a strained smile, “Really, in front of the guest.” “What? The twins have already made him their honorary brother. That means I don’t have to hold back.” said his wife while she was innocently smiling at him. “Anyway I’m Misa, the mother of these loving children.” Misa gave a short wave in Ghost's direction as he nodded back to her. “She’s the infected one? But she’s acting completely fine?”

Ghost decided to think about that later as he turned his attention toward the other woman. She says nothing and keeps eating as if he doesn’t exist. Silence passed before Tylo speaks, “Come on, can’t you just say hi?” The woman glares at him. “Well fine” Misa speaks up, “I’ll introduce you. Ghost this is my lovely-”

“NO!” the woman yells, interrupting Misa, “You always end up embarrassing me so I’ll do it.” The woman huffs and turns toward Ghost. “My name is Sill, the Aunt of the twins and older sister of Misa. There, you happy now.” Sill turns back to her food and keeps eating.

“Their sisters?” Ghost thinks as he looks both of them over. Misa is taller than Sill with brown hair and eyes and even has tan skin. Sill, on the other hand, was the complete opposite for she has dirty blonde hair, pale skin, and blue eyes. Even their personalities are different.

Ghost thoughts were interrupted by the twins. “Now it's our turn.” The twins said at the same time. The one on the right began, “I’m Tyla,” “and I’m Syla.” The left one finished. Then with both together, “And we are the amazing twins.”

The twins look exactly the same except for the hairstyles they chose. They both have a lighter skin color than their mother but are closer to their father. They both have green eyes like their father, brown hair and they’re wearing a blue dress that goes down to their knees. Tyla’s hair has two ponytails while Syla has her hair in two braids. Now that Ghost thinks about it, Myla looks a lot like her mother while the twins look like their father.

“Amazing twins huh?” Ghost comments, “Do you know any magic considering you said amazing.”

The twins grin mischievously at each other as Tyla pulls out a handkerchief and lightly drapes it over the brown square that Ghost had on his plate. Then Syla, with her hand slowly reaching out, says “Now you see it.”

“NOW YOU DON’T!” Both said as Tyla threw the handkerchief at Ghost's face. At the same time, Syla grabbed the square and split it in two. She gave the other half to Tyla when she was done replacing Ghost square with vegetables. Both sat down and started munching on their stolen brown square.

Ghost pulled the handkerchief off and sighed. He figured that they were going to do something like that as he now watched the twins happily eat his brown bread square. He actually wasn’t sure what it was but he saw the twins take many of them so he decided to take one too. At least they were happy.

“Gggrrriiilllsss…” Came a long scolding sound from their mother, “That wasn’t very nice now, was it? You guys had so many and Ghost didn’t even have one, you owe him an apology.”

The girls deflated in their chairs, now munching on their brown squares sadly. Before Ghost could interject Sill spoke up. “Now come on Misa, the girls are just enjoying the brownies I made, so let them. Besides, I only made them for the girls anyway.” Sill had her arms crossed and smiled at the girls. The girls perked up only a little bit as they sensed their mother’s glare at their aunt.

Before Misa could get a word out Ghost spoke up, “I’m fine with it. Besides, I got full from the rest of the food. So thank you for the meal.”

Misa sighed and let it go. She got up with her husband as they started to clear the table. “Thank you Ghost and you’re always welcome to come and get seconds if you want alright. Anyway, it’s late now and I believe we should all head to bed. Tyla, Syla that means no more playing and going to sleep okay. And Sill can you show Ghost the guest room? Me and Tylo will finish up here okay.” With that Misa and Tylo began to clean the dishes while the rest headed upstairs.

The twins were ahead of Ghost, while Sill trailed behind them. They were basically giving Ghost a tour of their home. “Mom and dad have their own room downstairs.” Said Syla. Tyla continued, “Yeah so we have the upstairs all to ourselves.” Syla again, “There’s four doors, two on each side.” Tyla again, “Yup. Three bedrooms and one bathroom.”

Once up the stairs, the twins ran to the closest door on the left. “This is mine and Tyla’s room.

Across from us is Auntie Sill’s room which is next to the bathroom and next to us is the guest room.”

Tyla excitedly shook Ghost’s arm, “Yeah we’re next door buddies!”

Ghost was about to respond before Sill's voice cut through, “Alright girls that’s enough. Time to say goodnight and go to bed. Don’t make me say it twice.”

The girls said goodnight to both of them, went to their room and shut the door. Ghost assumes that was the end of it and was going to say goodnight to Sill but instead she walks past Ghost to the guest room and opens the door, waiting for Ghost to go inside.

Ghost is apprehensive, this woman hasn't been kind to him so far. So whatever she wants now cannot be good. Nonetheless, Ghost walks over and into the room. The room is simple, it has a bed, a few drawers, and a closet. Ghost walks over to the bed and stands next to it. Watching as Sill comes into the room and shuts the door behind her. “Definitely not good.” Ghost thinks as he watches Sill walk to the middle of the room.

They both stare each other down, one glaring while the other has a stoic expression. The tension in the air gets heavier and heavier as more time passes by. Finally the tense silence is broken by Sill, “Why are you really here.”

The Ghost relaxes a bit, “We didn’t draw swords good”, but narrowed eyes “What do you mean?

Now it was Sill’s turn to narrow her eyes as anger seeped into her voice, “There is absolutely no way that Myla sent you. I know where that girl has gone and she is most likely dead. So. Tell. Me. Why. You’re. HERE!”

Ghost is confused, “Does Myla’s family not know where she went? Or did she really think that Myla wouldn’t survive when she went to Hallownest? Either way, I should tread carefully.” Ghost straightened out his back and kept his face blank, “I can assure you that Myla is alive and well.” (Again as well as she can be when fighting the infection.)

The woman stares at him suspiciously, she doesn’t believe him. “Listen boy.” She says with disgust, “Myla went to Hallownest and everyone knows that if you go to Hallownest, you’re as good as dead. Unless you’re as strong as Misa then maybe but Myla is nothing so she's as good as dead.”

Ghost is getting angry, how dare this woman talk about Myla as if she is nothing but a strain on her life. What right does she have? She’s her aunt, why does Sill speak ill of her? Ghost’s anger is rising but he tries to calm down. This is no time to lose his head. He’s facing a potential threat that might harm him. He needs to think clearly about this. “What do you mean as strong as Misa?” Ghost instead asks.

Sill just scoffs at him but answers anyway, “Misa used to be a guard or something for the main city in Hallownest. So she has gone under special combat training that helped her survive when she went back. Myla can barely swing that pick ax she carries around so, there’s no way that she can survive there.

Ghost takes a few deep breaths, this woman is making him lose his cool. Even Zote wasn’t able to make him lose his cool, but this woman. All she has done is talk bad about Myla and already assumes that she’s dead, there’s no remorse from her. He wishes he could say something to put her in her place but he doesn’t want to be kicked out, and the fact that the twins like her. So for now he will hold his tongue. “Listen to my words well, for I will not repeat myself. Myla is alive. As proof, I know her song and the fact that I was able to find my way here at all. She is the one that told me. I am here only to make sure her family is well, that includes you too. So you don’t have to like me, just tolerate me until I leave. I do not wish to make my presence here uncomfortable but I will fulfill her request of me whether you like it or not.”

Sill's expression is full of rage but she wisely held it back. She turns away and starts to leave. Right when she's about to exit the door, she leaves a few parting words, “You being here will bring nothing but bad luck. You came from that accursed place too and now…” She turns to look back at him, “...And now you have cursed this family even more now that you're here.” With that Sill leaves the room and slams the door shut.

Ghost stands there in silence now, mulling over Sill’s words. “She may be right.” Ghost ponders as he takes a seat on the bed and stares out the window into the night. “I may cause things to become even worse…Everywhere I go, it just seems I’m not destined to have a better life.” Ghost sighs as he closes his eyes and laid back onto the bed. “Well even if I’m not destined to have one, I will try. I have made a promise after all.” And so Ghost fell into a restless sleep.

Over the course of a few weeks, things have actually been steady for Ghost. Myla’s family, of course, asked how Myla was doing and Ghost said only half-truths, that she was mining beautiful crystals and had come down with the flu. He didn’t want them to freak out. He ended up with a routine of getting up early in the morning, though that's because he barely sleeps, and he helps Tylo and Misa make breakfast. Afterwards he and the twins either play together or he helps them with their homeschooling with Misa. Ghost has literally become their older brother as he helps bathe them, wash them, make sure they eat, properly dressed and even helps them get to bed. He doesn’t mind it at all because he gets to see them happy. Tylo has a job so he will come and go, though at times he will bring Ghost and the twins with him to help out at the shop he works at. Misa and Sill stay at home doing chores around the house or things by themselves. Though Sill still despises him, and has gotten bolder about speaking about her dislike towards him. Thankfully though Misa and Tylo still let him stay, he’s useful.

With Misa on the other hand, Ghost has discovered that it was true. Misa is infected with the same infection at Hallownest. He discovered it one night when he heard a noise in the kitchen, when he went to investigate and came upon Misa with glowing orange eyes and a knife. Tylo had a grip on her wrist where she held the knife while his other arm was trying to hold Misa back as she was trying to scratch and claw at him. This is where Ghost had intervened and swiftly came behind Misa and hit her on the back of her head, knocking her unconscious. Tylo was very surprised at this but then panicked as he tried to quickly explain what happened with his wife. Ghost interrupted him saying that he has seen this before and knows what it is. Tylo seemed so devastated by his answer and he began to explain how Misa got infected. Apparently when Misa had gone back to Hallownest, she had encountered many of the infected. At first, she tried her best to avoid them but in the end, she had to cut through them, not realizing that when the infected blood landed on her that it was slowly infecting her too. In the end, she had come home and told everyone about her experience, then soon after she got sick. At first, they thought it was just the common flu until she coughed and orange liquid came out. Misa quickly told Tylo and they both tried to keep it a secret, even the twins don’t know about it. But as time went on, it just got worse and soon the council found out about it and ordered everyone to stay away from them. They have even been threatened to leave on multiple occasions if they didn’t take care of the problem, meaning that they have to kill Misa. The situation has only got worse, especially now that they know of Ghost presences. They think that Myla’s family is trying to infect other people and Ghost is their first test subject, it gets very tense whenever they go to the marketplace for supplies. Ghost knows that it will just keep getting worse, so he suggests that they move. The further away they are from the source of the infection, the less chance it has to take control. Ghost has seen the infection is a physical form, they don’t last long without a host especially outside the range of the source. Misa and Tylo wholeheartedly agree and say they have nothing here anymore and the twins don’t mind as long as they all stay together. The only person that won’t agree is Sill. Sill says that they have a stable life here and if they leave now it will only throw more suspicion on them. Ghost countered saying that they have already been threatened to leave, so might as well give them what they want. Then Sill says that it was only for Misa to leave, not her.

So Ghost said something that he might regret, “Then why don’t we leave and you stay here?” That made Sill pissed. Sill erupted into anger and started yelling about how this was his plan to separate them as a family and how he’s destroying their, more like her’s, perfect family. At that time the twins had run upstairs into their rooms, while Tylo and Misa were trying to calm Sill down. Ghost sighed, “Why did this have to be complicated.” In the corner of his eye he saw Sill come straight toward him, he knew what was going to happen. So he decided to let it happen and closed his eyes to embrace it. A sharp clap echoed throughout the house, silencing all the noise. Ghost opened his eyes as he felt a dull throb in his cheek. He looks up and sees Sill close to him with tears in her eyes and her hand stretched out. Tylo and Misa are too shocked to move as Sill spoke, “This is all your FAULT.” Tears streaming down her face, “You took my family away from ME! I WISH YOU NEVER CAME HERE!” With that Sill ran upstairs into her room.

Misa had come over to him, checking on him, “Are you alright? I hadn’t expected her to hit you. I’m so sorry, Ghost.” Tylo had also come over to check on him as well. He patted Ghost’s back as Ghost said that it was okay and he had expected it to come anyways, they didn’t have a good relationship. They sighed and apologized again to Ghost, though after this no decision was made and they ended up staying. Unfortunately, the situation had also gotten worse as now Tylo was showing signs of the infection. Now both Tylo and Misa can’t leave the house and gossip spread like wildfire across the town. Even Ghost had to leave the twins at home because of the intense glares they have gotten. One day when Ghost was getting supplies, he overheard some whispers.

“It all goes down tonight. Get ready, we're gonna end the spread. All of them have to go. Council approved.”

Ghost panicked, though on the outside he appeared calm. They have to leave now! Ghost quickly gathered the supplies and rushed towards Myla’s house. He looked back just to see an orange glow in the middle. “Oh no! It’s going to be a mob!” Ghost full-on sprinted towards the house. When he got there, he slammed open the door and screamed “WE NEED TO LEAVE! THEY'RE GOING TO KILL US!”

The family stared at Ghost shocked. Misa and Tylo grew concerned expressions but before they could voice their questions, Sill spoke up. “You're joking right?” Sill said with disbelief, she doesn’t believe him.

“I’m being serious! I overheard a conversation that they are coming tonight! We need to leave now!” Ghost said, as he was trying to get the twins moving.

“I don’t believe you.” Sill said, not moving from her position on the couch.

Before Ghost could say anything, Misa spoke up from the front window “Sill your right…” She turned around, panic across her face. “Because they’re coming right now! EVERYONE MOVE MOVE MOVE.”

The next few minutes were a flurry of motion. Tylo had gone into the kitchen and grabbed a bag to stuff food and necessary items. Misa went into her room and grabbed her sword. Ghost and the twins flew upstairs into their rooms. Ghost grabbed his little bag that Qurriel gifted him and his sword. He ran into the twin’s room just to see them tear apart their room looking for specific items. Ghost told them that they can’t take everything and only items they can carry because they have to run as soon as they leave. The twins seemed to ignore him but soon they came out with a pair of necklaces and lightweight blankets. The necklaces were star shaped with a gem in the middle, green for Tyla and pink for Slya, and the blankets, green for Tyla and pink for Syla, were plain. After that Ghost and the twins ran back downstairs just to see Tylo and Misa trying to get Sill to move.

They were yelling at each other while Ghost held the twins' hands. Before Ghost could interject, a brick came crashing through the window breaking the glass. Yelling could be heard from outside as the smell of smoke filled the house. “They’re setting the house on fire!”

Misa seemed to have the same idea as she grabbed Sill by the arm and pulled her further into the house, towards the back door. Tylo, Ghost and the twins followed closely. Once they got to the door they exited only to be stopped by Misa with her left hand held up, while her right was holding her sword in front of her.

In front of them were more people. All of them with angry expressions and holding a variety of weapons of spears, torches, bows and arrows. A man that was on the older side spoke up, “I see that you found out about our plan but I always come prepared. Now do yourselves a favor and surrender. We don’t need to make this harder than it has to be.”

Misa growled, “Head councilmen Jerick. What do you think you are doing?!”

Jerick narrowed his eyes, “I am ending this once and for all. I have been kind to you in the past and now YOU are trying to infect other people. Even your own husband has been infected! I do not know if your own children and that child you have taken in are infected but it’s better to be safe than sorry.” Jerick's eyes grow solemn, “Please just come quietly.”

Tylo stepped beside his wife pleading, “Please Jerick, we’re friends. Just let us leave and we’ll never bother you again. Please.”

Jerick's eyes grew sadder and despondent as another person from the mob spoke up, “If we let you leave you’ll just infect another town and the problem will still continue.” The mob yelled in agreement.

“No you had your chance, now it’s our turn! We’ll stop the spread here and now!” The mob grew more agitated as the crowd drew closer as others prepped their weapons.

Ghost stepped forward, handing the twins to their father as he faced the crowd. “Please, find your reason! This isn’t right, some of us are children. Please the further we are away from the source of the infection, the higher the chance of it going away.”

“Child you are daft. You too have been infected, there is no chance for you.” The mob is becoming animated.

“It won’t be long before they rush at us.” Ghost thought as he looked back at the family. Tylo is concerned as the twins, who are now held up by him, are silently crying in his arms. Sill’s expression is full of disbelief and worry. Misa looks determined, she looks back at Ghost giving him a knowing look. “They're not going down without a fight.”

Ghost looks at Tylo, the twins, and Sill. In a low voice that only they can hear “I am going to create a path and when I do, we all run towards the forest and we don’t stop okay.”

They look concerned but give a small nod. Ghost turns back around and gives a nod to Misa before speaking to the crowd again. “Then I apologize.” The crowd looked confused, “But I made a promise and I tend to see them THROUGH!”

With that Ghost conjured enough soul and blasted a large shadow from his hand and towards the mob. Some of the mob tried to jump out of the way but unfortunately, many of them were hit and blown out of the way creating a path.

Without wasting any time Myla’s family ran through the path and towards the forest as the mob was trying to get over their confusion. Though once it was cleared the mob grew furious and started a chase.

“AFTER THEM!” The mob gave out war cries and started chasing them. The ones with bows and arrows, set their arrows on fire and shot them towards the running family.

The mob was gaining ground and they were still a ways away from the forest edge. Tylo had given one of the twins to Sill as they ran. Ghost and Misa were behind trying to deflect the arrows and making sure they were safe. But soon their luck ran out. Misa had been struck in the leg by an arrow and fell to the ground. Ghost rushed to her side to help her but instead had to block a spear that was about to impale her.

Ghost looked back briefly, only to see Tylo running towards them while Sill, with both twins, was able to make it to the forest edge and ran in, not stopping.

“What are you doing! Go back!” Ghost yelled as he kicked the assailant away as Misa was getting to her feet.

Tylo was attacked halfway to them but was able to dodge the pitchfork coming at him and was able to grab the weapon as he kicked the attacker away. He got to them and helped Misa stay stable as he pointed the pitchfork at the incoming attackers.

“I’m not leaving you guys behind, if we do this then we do this together.” Tylo said as he gave a sad smile to his wife. She shook her head but stood her ground, “Then let's give them time to run.”

With that said, Misa took a battle-ready position with her sword in front of her. Tylo did the same with his pitchfork as Ghost also stood prepared for the barrage. “We won’t let them get past us.” Ghost said as the other two just nodded with determination in their eyes.

So the three of them ran into the fray. Slicing, stabbing and deflecting as much as they could. Blood went flying and splattered all over the ground and themselves. Though one thing was obvious as they fought, Ghost and his group were only trying to disarm and lightly injure the mob, not actually trying to kill them. Ghost, Tylo, and Misa were able to take out a good number of the mob but exhaustion was soon hitting them, they couldn’t keep this up especially with the injuries they were getting. Tylo ended up with two deep cuts on his stomach, he was losing blood fast. Misa was the worst off as many arrows ended up hitting her and because Misa was also fighting the infection, it made her more sloppy in her fight. Ghost was better off than the two with only a few scratches here and there but an arrow was able to imbed itself into Ghost's left shoulder. They couldn’t keep this up, they were fighting a losing battle. Ghost was trying to think up of ways he could turn the tide but was disrupted as Misa came in front of him, eyes slightly glowing with the infection.

“Ghost you need to leave.” Misa said as she blocked three in-coming attacks.

“What?” Ghost was confused as he knocked the weapon out of his assailant's hands and knocked them unconscious.

Tylo came near them, as he threw two people away. “She’s right, Ghost you need to leave.”

“But I can’t just leave you to die, I won’t allow that!” Ghost said as he let out another soul-conjured shadow, giving them some space to work with.

“PLEASE GHOST!” Misa yelled as she grabbed him and turned him towards her, eyes full of desperation. “Please Ghost, I need someone to take care of the twins and I know you can do that for them or at least find them better lives.”

Now it was Tylo that came next to him, “We know that Sill can’t do it, something is wrong with her but we know that you can. Please promise us that you will find the twins a better home, Ghost.”

Ghost looked up and saw tears in their eyes, he can’t let this happen but the mob is getting closer. Misa and Tylo hug him, “Please Ghost, we trust you to do this…and let them know we love them very much.” Misa broke out into a sob as she and Tylo got up to face the mob again.

Ghost was angry, he couldn’t save them but he will keep his promise. So Ghost dashed into the forest screaming to them that he will give them the best lives he could find for them. Ghost looked back as he ran only to see the mob slightly surround them and spears going through both Tylo and Misa. With tears in his eyes, Ghost ran even faster in the forest to find the twins and Sill.

As Ghost made it to the middle of the forest, he finally stopped and was trying to catch his breath. Things are calm for now. He can’t believe it. He CAN’T believe it. Ghost fell to his knees and punched the ground. “Why! Why! Why did they have to die?! Why couldn’t they just be left alone?” A few tears escaped Ghost’s mask, “The twins don’t even have parents anymor- OH SHIT the Twins!” Ghost hurriedly got up, “I have to find them and figure out what's wrong with Sill.”

Ghost calmed himself and started to focus on the environment around him. He closed his eyes and tried to find any noise that was familiar to him. He heard a rapid river over to his left and what seemed to be the twins' voice. He opened his eyes, alright he found them, but before he could even take a step his arm flared up in pain. “Ack.” Ghost looked over and saw the arrow stick out his left shoulder. Right he got injured, but he doesn’t have enough soul to heal himself. Though he has enough energy to find the twins and hopefully he gets to rest and heal the regular way before having to do something serious again. He sighs and sets off to find the twins as silent as a shadow, who knows what else could be lurking in the forest.

Soon enough Ghost finds the twins and Sill by the river having an argument. “Come on, Auntie!” Tyla starts off, “We have to go back!” Syla finishes.

Sill just glares at them, “Absolutely not, how many times do I have to tell you. We’ll wait here until your father comes back.”

“That’s odd.” Ghost thinks as he hides in the shadows with a raised brow, “Why does she only expect Tylo and not him or Misa?” Ghost just shakes off the thought and walks to them, “Then I have bad news.” Ghost says startling them, Sill glares venom at him while the twins smile.

“Big Brother!” They both say as they run over to him and give him a hug, but when they realize he is alone their smiles turn sad. “Where’s mom and dad?” Tyla says quietly while Syla stares at him.

Ghost's eyes turn misty as he hugs them tighter and walks them over to the river’s edge where Sill is. “I’m so sorry.” He looks up at Sill, “But they gave their lives so we could live.”

The twins burst out crying and hug Ghost even tighter than before as Sill just stands there dumbfounded. “What?” Sill says with a quiet voice.

Ghost, believing that Sill is just shocked, says “Yes I know, I can’t believe that they have done that either but we cannot let their sacrifice go to waste. We must leave before they send out a search party.”

Before Ghost could even get moving with the twins, Sill steps in front of him. “What?” Sill says again but with anger laced in her voice, “What do you mean Tylo is dead? It was only supposed to be you two!”

“What?” Now it was Ghost’s turn to be shocked, but if she meant what he thinks that she means then that means Sill had a hand in all of this.

Before Ghost could even voice his words, Sill said them for him, completely losing her mind. “It wasn’t supposed to end like this. It wasn’t part of the goddamn deal. It was only supposed to be you and Misa! Not me, not Tylo, and not the twins.” Sill is yelling all of this at Ghost while the twins cling on to him from behind.

“You did this!” Ghost said, eyes widening in disbelief, “Why would you want this, What could you possibly gain from this?”

This got Sill’s attention as she marched up to Ghost and started to push him, “I didn’t do this!” A push making them walk backwards, “I only gave them information!” Another push. “I only wanted my perfect family.” Another push. “Only me,” push. “Tylo.” push. “And the twins!” push. “But no you had to come and ruined fucking everything.” push. “This. IS. ALL. YOUR. FUCKING. FAULT!” Sill put all of her might into her final push not realizing that she pushed Ghost and the twins towards the river's edge. With that last push, she sent Ghost and the twins falling into the river. Sill realizing what she had done stretched out her arm to grab but instead had fallen in with them.

The rapid river was throwing them in all different directions as Ghost was able to grab all three of them to make sure that they stayed together. Though that didn’t stop them from being smashed into every rock that came their way. Ghost was losing oxygen fast as his vision started to blur. He saw in front of him a swirling blue light before going through and meeting calm waters. Ghost saw his chance and hauled the four of them up to land. Ghost was only able to drag them up further away from the water before collapsing himself.

-(In a foreign land)-

Ghost awoke with a start and took a deep breath in. He slowly calmed himself down and looked around. He’s in a deep lush forest with a light fog as the twins lay on his left and Sill on his right. This wasn’t the same forest that they were in. The forest from before was a bit more open and didn’t have this many plants. Even when Ghost closed his eyes and focused, there were a lot more living creatures around them than there were in the other forest. “This isn’t good.” Ghost thinks as he gets up and checks on the twins and Sill. The twins look to be fine, other than being wet, but with no external injuries. Sill on the other hand seems to just have some bruising. “Hopefully she’ll just be able to walk it off and not complain too much.” Though Ghost doubts his own thoughts. Ghost sighs as he takes another look around their surroundings and does an inventory check. The twins still have their necklaces and blankets. Sill at least still had her clothes on her back considering that she didn't take anything when they ran and Ghost still had all of his items except for the small bag, though that was fine since it only had snacks in it, and an arrow in his shoulder. Oh right he should probably take that out, but he didn’t have anything to cover the wound with so for now it will stay.

Ghost instead looks around his surroundings. A lush forest with a light mist covering the ground and a calm river next to them. That is definitely not the same river they fell into, so where are they? Ghost doesn’t know but instead looks up into the sky only to see the sun descending and about to turn into night. “Hmm. It was night when we fell into the river so that means we slept for an entire day. That’s not good.” Well, there was nothing to do about that now, so instead Ghost got to work before the sun sets into night.

Ghost unwrapped the wet blankets from the twins and hung them on low branches for them to dry. Next, he collected some rocks and sticks and started a fire. He dragged the twins and Sill next to the fire so they could all dry up before the sun sets and started to collect something edible hopefully. Ghost doesn’t know this terrain, so he doesn’t know what's food and what's poison. Ghost wandered into the forest to collect what he could, also making note of where the camp was in case he needed to be there quickly. He found food that seemed to be berries possibly, as an odd squirrel-like creature came scampering about and eating every kind that there was. So he thinks that they're fine as he collects some and leaves the rest to the creatures. The creatures he encounters are many and all in different sizes, though he’s thankful that so far they only stare at him and do nothing. Though for the ones that do wander closely, Ghost is just able to show his sword and they back off. He’s not going to become some creature's meal today. Ghost decides that he has enough items and goes back to camp. Nothing has changed when he arrives at the camp other than what possibly could be fish popping up from the river from time to time. As long as they don’t come up, Ghost is fine with them there. As Ghost placed the berries near the center of the camp, he checked on the twins and Sill, “They're still sleeping, I guess being in that river took up a lot of their energy.” After determining that they were fine, Ghost was going to sit and relax only to see his bag that he got from Quirrel near the forest edge.

Oh good, Ghost had thought he lost that. Not that he thought it was a big deal because he only filled it with little snacks he got from the twins, but to see it there makes him happy. Ghost goes over to pick it up. Right as he bends down and grabs it, he bends back up just to come face to face with a small white horse creature with a black and white swirl horn. The horse is his height, just a bit taller, with a fluffy blue and purple mane and tail. They both stare at each other before the horse bends its head down to sniff at the bag in Ghost’s hand. “It just wants a snack?” Ghost thinks. He never encountered a friendly creature, other than the ones that were domesticated or just ignored his presence, so he was a bit confused on what to do. The horse lightly nipped his fingers and made a huff sound as if it wanted him to open it. “Well, I guess it should be okay to share.” So, Ghost opens the bag and pulls out a perfectly dry cookie, the bag must be waterproof. (Thanks Quirrel) Ghost holds the cookie out in front as the horse sniffs it one more time before eating the whole thing. The little horse starts to neigh happily as it even turns around in a few circles. Ghost had a small smile as well seeing the small horse so happy. Then he heard a noise and looked up to see a larger horse with the same colors standing a few feet away from them. “Ah, that must be its mother.” Ghost thinks as the tiny one bumps into him, asking for more snacks. Ghost laughs a bit, “Okay, okay just one more and that’s it. I have to save the rest for the twins.” Ghost pulls out another and gives it to the little horse who is munching happily now. Ghost laughs again, “This is sweet.”

Though the moment is quickly ruined as Ghost hears footsteps much closer than they should. He turns his head only to see a hand going for the small horse. Ghost moves as he pushes the horse out of the way, as he is instead grabbed at and something screams into his ear, “What the HELL do you think you’re doing?!” “Ah, Sill has woken up.” Ghost thinks numbly as he is dragged backwards and held up against a tree. Sill is screaming at him, though Ghost doesn’t process any of it as he is too busy watching the many creatures come out of the forest and start watching the commotion instead of running away. The small horse that Ghost was with seemed to be panicking as it is making neighing noises and jumping up on its hind legs to kick its front legs towards him, almost as if it's trying to reach him. “Odd shouldn’t it have run away.” Ghost thinks but is soon brought into reality as Sill's voice becomes higher. Before Ghost could interject, he sees a pink ball of light out the corner of his eye, and it's heading right towards Sill. Ghost panics as he puts his legs against the tree and pushes forward, making him and Sill fall towards the ground and roll out of the way before the pink ball hits Sill. A bright light consumes the area before dying as Ghost looks back at the spot where the light hit. There’s a scorch mark on the ground and Ghost turns to look at the large horse who also has a look of surprise on its face. Ghost slowly gets off the ground and sees that many of the creatures are still present, though it seems like more has shown up since there are more in the sky and water. Before Ghost could gather his bearings, he was roughly turned around and slapped so hard that it sent him tumbling to the ground again. This time when Ghost got up he felt liquid running down his cheek and when he raised his hand up to his face, he discovered it was blood. “Hm. I must have had a cut there that she reopened.” Ghost turned to see Sill shocked and staring at her own hand before recovering and started to glare at him again.

Before Sill could speak, Ghost interrupted her, “Before you speak you may want to take a look around and see that we have an audience.” Sill froze as she looked around and grew concerned. The large horse from before neighed loudly before charging at the frozen Sill. Ghost moved in front of Sill and pulled out his sword. The large horse stopped looking between him and Sill before neighing once more and stomping its hoof into the ground. Ghost doesn’t understand what the horse wants but he won’t let anyone hurt Sill, even if he didn’t like her. So instead Ghost stood his ground and raised his sword threateningly, “You will not hurt any of us so stay back and leave us be.” Some of the creatures listen as they back away but the large horse is persistent as it continually glares at Sill. Ghost stepped in front of the large horse, “Please, I won’t hesitate.” Ghost raised his sword once more to prove his point. The large horse just stares but huffs as it begins to back away. Ghost slightly relaxes but soon hears two sets of footsteps running behind him and soon a pair of arms wrap around his waist, hugging him tightly.

The twins have woken up. “Big brother, what's going on?” Tyla spoke up, slightly hiding her face into his side. Syla continued as she stared up at his face, “And what happened to your face? It wasn’t like that before?”

Before Ghost could answer, Sill speaks up “Tyla, Syla get away from him. He was being reckless and brought all these dangerous creatures to us. If I hadn’t stopped him he would have been dead!”

“Is that really how she is spinning it or does she actually believe that considering that she was the one that started screaming like a banshee.” Ghost thought, glaring at Sill in his mind. All Ghost did was be kind to a friendly creature that showed no ill will towards him. Well until Sill came and almost attacked the small horse.

Ghost just grumbles in his mind. The twins must have woken up after Sill had slapped him so they do not know what happened. Ghost thoughts are interrupted by the small horse coming towards him, the large one keeping a keen eye on its child and Sill.

Sill yells, “Boy it’s coming towards us! I swear if it hurts the twins you're done for! Understand me! So just attack it and be done with this!”

Ghost just sighs, as he watches Sill in the corner of his eye. For a quick second he could have sworn that her eyes glowed just a bit, “Is she infected? That would make sense of how bold she has gotten to just physically hit him.” He needs to get the twins away from her as fast as he can.

The small horse has gotten closer to him now. The twins grip on him tightens, as they stare in awe at the beauty of the small horse. The small horse just stops a little bit away from them as Ghost is able to make out his bag hanging from the horse's mouth. The small horse puts the bag on the ground, runs in a circle making a neighing sound before going back to its mother. The mother seems pleased and makes a loud and long neigh sound that gets the other creatures to retreat back into the forest as the horses leave.

All is calm now as Ghost grabs his bag, though he can sense that some of them have stayed and are watching them through the shadows of the forest. Though as long as they all don’t approach, Ghost is fine with that.

“Boy why did you do that?! Now they’re just going to ambush us later! Why are you so stupid?!” Sill said as Ghost walked with the twins back to the fire. The twins still seemed out of it so Ghost put them down near the fire and grabbed their now dry blankets off the branches and put it over them. It is night now, they’ll be needing all the warmth they can get.

After Ghost was done, he finally answered “Because I'd rather have all of us alive than cause more senseless bloodshed. They outnumber us and I am pretty sure I’m the only one that knows how to fight. We are in a foreign land, with foreign creatures that can do things beyond what I know. So it is better to play it safe.”

Ghost and Sill stared at each other, waiting for the other to back down. But then the twins spoke up, “Big brother, my head hurts?” Said Tyla as she put the blanket over her head. “Yeah, mine too.” Said Syla as she curled up even further.

Sill went over to them and started to pet their head, trying to soothe the pain. Ghost may not like her but it's obvious that she cares for the twins. Ghost went over to the berry pile, hoping that they just needed something to eat but as Ghost was looking over it, two of the berries started floating out of the pile and in front of him. Ghost looked up to the sky and saw an odd floating pink creature with purple flowers looking at him as it floated two large pink triangle-shaped berries in his face. Ghost grabbed the berries as the pink thing gestured towards the twins. It’s a good thing that Sill was distracted or she would have caused more of a commotion that a creature was this close, but it seemed to be helping. So Ghost nodded his head towards it and went to the twins to feed them the berries. Of course, Sill glared at him but at least didn’t stop him from feeding the twins. Once the twins ate the berries, they seemed to instantly get better but fell quickly to sleep. “Hmm. Maybe the berries have special properties, but thankfully that creature gave me ones that worked.”

Ghost let out a relieved sigh, “At least things are calm for now.” Ghost gazed up into the foreign sky, “We should get some sleep.” He said towards Sill. “We need to get up when the sun rises so we can find a safe place.” He glances at Sill who just stares at him blankly. Maybe she is also out of it but that is no surprise considering she is also infected. Luckily the twins are not infected, he made sure of that as his presence is enough to deter the infection from spreading. Though he wasn’t near Sill enough to have the same effects as he did on the twins. Only time could tell how far Sill can go now.

Finally, Sill spoke to him, “You are nothing but hollow.” Ghost looked at Sill, surprised as her eyes glowed a sickly orange as she stared at him. Even Misa and Tylo never said anything like that, they had more control. So that must mean Sill might be further gone. But as quickly as it came, it was gone as Sill blinked her eyes and she was back to normal, not even realizing what she had said. “So I don’t want you near us. Sleep far away from us.”

For a moment Ghost was going to protest but held his tongue. His presence around Sill might be the reason why she is so far gone. Sure he is able to get rid of small quantities but if they are large enough, the infection will start convincing their minds to hate him. He’s not sure how but the infection somehow knows his blood and anyone that is infected goes to kill him immediately. He has seen it before as he was with other people but the infection only targeted him. Sill had already hated him when he first showed up, so she might have accidentally allowed the infection to control her more and more. There might not be hope for her anymore. So instead Ghost got up and walked away so he doesn't push Sill further into the infection control.

“Further.” Sill says as she watches him. Ghost takes a couple of steps back. “More further.” Ghost once again takes a couple of steps back, he’s almost near the river’s edge. “Further!” Sill said, getting angry. So Ghost complies and walks back until his feet hit the water and his ankles are submerged. He’s standing in the shallow part of the river as the water gently laps at his legs. “I guess that’s good enough.” Sill says as she moves to lay down. “Now don’t move from there until morning, got it. I don’t trust you so if you move, I’ll make sure the twins will never come near you again.” Ghost doubts that but only nods his head to Sill as she stares at him some more before laying down.

Soon Sill is soundly asleep, she must have been tired as the rest of them. Ghost isn’t getting any rest tonight but that is fine as he starts to form a plan in his mind. Many of the creatures from before come out of the forest, only to give him concerned glances as the large horse starts glaring at Sill again. But Ghost puts a hand on his sword to warn them not to get any closer.

~~~(Now)~~~

A few hours have passed and it should be the middle of the night. Ghost brings his gaze back down and towards the group laying on land. He needs to do this now. He needs to take the twins away from Sill and his only chance is now. Ghost lets go of his sword and slowly makes his way out of the water. The creatures obverse him but don’t make a sound. As silent as a shadow, Ghost reaches the twins and hoists one of them onto his back. Before he could pick up the other one, the one on his back lets their hand fall and it lands on the arrow still embedded in his shoulder. Ghost makes a muffled sound, right that was still there. Ghost looks at the arrow, “It’s only going to be a hindrance now, it should be better to take it out now.” So with that thought process, Ghost grits his teeth and yanks the arrow out of his shoulder and throws it into the fire. The creatures around him make surprised noises as Ghost has to hush them. Ghost looks back at Sill and the twins to see that they are still asleep. Ghost sighs as he grabs some vines from the tree and ties the sleeping Syla to his back so she doesn’t slip. Then he grabs Tyla and holds her in front of him as he grabs another vine and ties her to him as well. Ghost looks back at Sill and then the creatures. He addresses them with a soft voice, “I will come back,” The large horse gains an annoyed expression, “So do not hurt her. I will come back to her but I can not have the twins stay here any longer. So please do not do anything rash.”

Many of the creatures nod their heads as the large horse grumbles but nods as well. Two of the flying creatures appear in front of him and start gesturing in one direction. One of the creatures is the floating pink thing that helped him before while the other looks like a weaponized ladybug. It looks like they want him to follow them and considering they have helped him before, Ghost does. As Ghost follows them, away from the camp and Sill, he has only one thought in his mind, “I will keep the twins safe. I will keep my promise.”