Revenant Slaves Chapter 3: Chapter 2: Ash and the fragility of life

Read chapter 3 of Revenant Slaves by Zee on NovelPedia.

Chapter 2: Ash and the fragility of life Ash recognized the guard on duty, a nasty piece of work named Martin, who took every opportunity to make life miserable for people like Ash. He noted the shabby black uniform, the wet hair that had nothing to do with the rain, and the ugly, oversized nose. “I have a temple apprentice badge,” Ash said before Martin, who had stepped in front of him, could speak. “That you have, that you have. But do they?” Martin pointed at Spark and Miru. “I don’t think so.” “They passed the test at the temple. Their badges will be issued tomorrow.” “Tell you what: you can go. I’ll keep your little friends company until they get their permits to enter and leave the city.” “They’re free, Martin. Free folk don’t need permits.” Ash saw the hit coming before it landed. He could have dodged, but that would only anger Martin more, and he could go after the children directly. The backhand struck him so hard that he went off his feet. Before he could hit the ground, Spark and Miru were behind him, supporting his weight. “Serves you right, you wretch! Free folk, you lot? Don’t make me laugh! You think just because your mother can sell herself to those in power, you can go about doing whatever you want?” Ash clenched his teeth. His fists balled so tightly his knuckles whitened. He wanted nothing more than to smash Martin’s face with his bare hands. ‘ Not yet. Not yet. ’ His mother had endured far worse; this was nothing. He was the elder brother. He was in charge. He would not let the kids get hurt. Mother had entrusted him with that responsibility, and he would not disappoint her. “We’re free, Sir. The temple wouldn’t take slaves. I’ve been offered a permanent position among the Flamebound, Spark might follow, and Miru is bright enough for the scholars. You let us through today… We won’t forget it.” Martin spat on the ground. “No papers? Then they’re not free. That’s the rule.” He leaned in. “And you… future knight, should know that, you little shit.” Ash braced himself. Tomorrow, the temple would shield Spark and Miru. Today, all they had was him. Martin wouldn’t kill him. Probably. Ash punched Martin hard. Martin fell back flat as he screamed at Spark and Miru to run. Spark immediately darted toward the checkpoint, while Miru ran the other way. Spark noticed her absence too late and tried to turn back, but Ash screamed for him to leave. The frightened boy bolted for the settlement. Thankfully, none of the other guards were in a cruel mood today, and let him go. That left only Ash with Martin. Had he run as well, Martin’s rage would have likely ensnared the others in the settlement. “Hah! You’re dead, kid.” Ash endured what felt like hours of pain. He was already an experienced punching bag for the temple knights, but even strategic defense had its limits. Martin showed no signs of stopping, and the other guards remained uninterested in intervening just as they had ignored Miru and Spark’s escape. ‘Have to do something fast.’ Ash felt unnervingly calm. He had to be. He could never allow emotions to dictate his actions. Any misstep could affect more than just him. Martin’s breathing came in ragged gasps. “Huff… huff… You think you saved those brats?” He struck Ash again. “Oh no. After I’m done with you… huff… I’ll chase down that little runt who ran into the city. I’ll enjoy my time with her… huff… then we’ll go to the slave camp for an inspection.” Another hit landed; Ash’s arms absorbed it, but only barely. He nearly vomited. “I won’t stop till I find the other one and string him up.” “Who’ll stop me? You think the temple gives a rat’s ass what happens to you people? No… maybe I’ll even visit your Ma, see what all the fuss is about.” Martin grinned wickedly. There they were, both out in the rain. Ash’s flimsy clothing did little to shield him from the caustic shower. Martin wore his shabby, unkempt, but still functional guard suit, keeping most of the rain at bay. Puddles of acidic water collected at their feet