Chapter One: Another
Is it destiny that chooses where we go or what we do? Does fate pave our path of life? Or is it our actions and our thoughts that direct us down those paths? Layton pondered these questions in his head over and over again. What he was meant to do with his life he was not sure but he had a feeling it was something far greater then his life so far. Layton had lived in the forest for the past 8 years from the time he was ten until now. When his parents passed away from a great illness, having no family left for him to live with, Layton was sent to live at an orphanage. This arrangement would not last long for within a week Layton had been adopted but never went with the family. Layton did not want another family he had simply wanted his back. Hearing news of the adoption Layton ran away that night with nothing but the clothes on his back and his inheritance, a silver bow his mother had once wielded and a golden sword he had received from his father.
Standing by the bank of the river Layton was thinking. Am I only meant for this and nothing more? Am I only to live in the forest doing nothing with my life? I want to do more. As Layton sat down he heard a rustle from the bush behind him and soon emerged a colorful chipmunk that crept to Layton and crawled on his lap. It is true I love the world I live in, I love being surrounded by nature but I cant help but feel there is something missing. Layton Stood up and began to walk downstream singing a song.
Destiny and fate, what is one to make of thee?
Destiny and fate, what will your decision be?
Destiny and fate, I open my heart willingly.
Destiny and fate spread your light upon me openly.
I have decisions to make
And actions to take.
So please let me ask
Just this one favor of you,
Pave the path I walk upon
Destiny and fate, why does one fear thee?
Destiny and fate please put your trust in me.
Destiny and fate my arms are spread widely.
Destiny and fate help me through this poverty.
Because of the chances I will take
There is a possibility that I will never wake.
So please for my sake
I am asking you to make
A path for me to walk upon
Layton had been interrupted by a loud sound, the sound of an army and their steeds passing through. However Layton had not know the sound when he originally he followed it. As he crept closer he began to smell the smell of smoke and could no longer here the sound of footprints for he heard large crashes and booms that rattled all of the forest. Instantly he knew, what had happened and then seconds later it had neared him, it was a fire.
Layton was not at fear for the river was near by and water was his comfort zone. The reason for this was because Layton had a special ability that was very unique in Ascavar he had the power to use magic. Laytons source for his magic was water as he could manipulate it as he pleased and so with one flick of his wrist the fire had vanished. Layton continued on the trail of what he assumed to be the arsons.
Layton finally began to catch up to them and as he reached the exit to the forest and the entrance to a meadow he came in contact with them. It was a group of soldiers dress in bronze chain-mail covered by silver armor. Layton rushed in front of them bringing the group to a halt.
What is it you want child? pondered the man who seemed to be in charge.
What do I want?! What do I want?! Look what you have done to the forest, the animals, and the river! I will not forgive you! suddenly water began to rise from the ground.
I have no time for this it is our mission to take this woman back to the king in order for her to die. As the man spoke Layton saw a woman, the most beautidul women he had ever seen bound to a pole.
I will not stand for such things. A tidal wave crashed down on the soldiers at the same time cutting the womans ropes and setting her free. The woman then approached Layton
I appreciate what you have done for me but I fear you made a grave mistake.
Why is that? asked Layton.
By doing so you have set the king upon you too.
Why does the king wish to kill you?
I apologize the fire you saw back there was caused by me for I am similar to you except unlike you I control water not fire.
So why does he want to kill you?
He has wanted to kill all magic users saying they were a threat to our country I was believed up until now to be the last one.
That doesnt sound like King Kurama.
King Kurama was murdered Six years ago and has been replaced by King Makuto.
Murdered? Six years ago? Kurama would never let that happen.
Just how long have you lived in that forest.
Eight years I believe I am not quite sure I lost track of time.
Please
. um what is your name?
My name is Layton Carter.
Nice to meet you Layton my name is Akira Manafuji. So please Layton will you join me in trying to dethrone Makuto. Layton was not sure why but he felt he could trust this woman simply from the look in her eye.
Layton answered with one word. Yes.