Kerosene lamps and lanterns, hung in every corner for the past week, bathed Red Dragon Village in a warm glow. The wedding celebration of Rowena and Ernest was still in full swing outside Mr. Salford’s residence. Villagers continued to revel in the joyous occasion, celebrating the union of the newlyweds.
Inside the bridal chamber, Ernest hesitated, unsure of how to approach Rowena. She was breathtakingly beautiful—so perfect that he felt unworthy. Yet, among all the young men in the village who had dreamed of marrying her, he was the one she had chosen.
“My love, Rowena… may I?”
Rowena lowered her gaze. Though she had met Ernest several times before, tonight felt different. Tonight, she was his—his lawful wife.
Ernest gently lifted her chin, making her look at him. His heart pounded erratically, warmth creeping up his face as she gave him a soft smile.
Slowly, he took her hand and kissed it before laying her down. One by one, the layers of her wedding attire slipped away. He pressed a kiss to her forehead, then traced a path down to her neck.
Rowena shut her eyes, surrendering herself completely to the man who had once saved her life. To her, Ernest was her world—now and until her last breath.
But just as the night deepened, Ernest suddenly bolted off the bed. His eyes fixed sharply on Rowena.
Rowena’s eyes flew open. Startled by her husband’s sudden change, she quickly grabbed the blanket, covering herself. “Ernest? What’s wrong?”
Ernest didn’t answer. His heavy breathing filled the silence. Running a hand through his hair, he stared at her once more.
“Who… are you?”
Rowena sat up, confusion written all over her face. “What do you mean? What’s going on?” She got out of bed, stepping toward him, but Ernest backed away, making her freeze in place.
“Stay away from me. You… you’re not human.”
“Ernest…”
Ernest turned his head toward the window. The music outside had grown livelier, a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing inside him. He had just discovered the truth about his new bride.
Rowena took a step back. “You’ve seen my body,” she murmured, looking down. “Do you hate me?”
Ernest scoffed in disgust. “In all my life, I have never encountered a creature like you. Why do you deceive humans?”
“I am human, Ernest…”
“Then what about the tail on your body?” His voice was laced with anger as he stormed toward her, gripping her chin roughly and forcing her to look at him. “Why did you lie to me, to my family, to the entire village? Everyone adores you, and yet… you’re nothing but a beast.”
He shoved her against the wall.
“Ernest… I’m not a beast,” Rowena whispered. “I’m human, just like you. I was simply born… with a tail.”
Ernest let out a bitter laugh. “No kin of mine will ever associate with the devil. Get out of my sight!”
“Please, Ernest…”
“I don’t want to see you here ever again. Leave!”
Rowena fell silent. With trembling hands, she picked up her usual clothes and slipped them on. Before stepping out, she turned to look at him one last time. Then, without another word, she walked away, unseen by anyone.
Rowena wandered aimlessly, her feet moving without direction. She felt too ashamed to return to her family. Her father had once warned her against marrying a human like Ernest. But blinded by love, she had defied him and run away from Seventh Mount. Now, regret was meaningless.
She stopped at the edge of a cliff, staring out at the vast ocean stretching beyond the horizon. The sea breeze brushed against her tear-streaked face. She looked down. Below the towering cliff, waves crashed violently against the jagged rocks.
Slowly, she stepped closer to the edge. She closed her eyes and spread her arms.
Then—
A sudden force yanked her back. She lost balance, falling backward onto someone.
Rowena’s eyes snapped open. She quickly scrambled to her feet.
A man stood before her, catching his breath.
"Don't do that. It’s dangerous," he said, still sounding shaken.
Rowena stayed silent, glancing around. He appeared to be alone.
"You mustn’t throw your life away. A human life is precious," he continued, stepping toward her—only to stop when she instinctively backed away.
"Who are you? What are you doing here?"
The man hesitated before speaking. "I’m sorry for what I did just now. But… it was too dangerous. I didn’t mean to touch you."
Rowena remained silent. He had only meant well.
"My name is Kenneth Pelton."
Rowena furrowed her brows. She was quiet for a moment before saying, "You didn’t have to save me… I wasn’t trying to kill myself."
Kenneth nodded, though her words didn’t completely ease his suspicion. She still kept her distance from him. The two stood in silence, letting the sea breeze fill the gap between them.
"That’s good to hear," Kenneth finally said. "Life is a gift from God, meant to be cherished, not wasted."
Rowena stayed quiet, unwilling to hear any words of wisdom. Her heart was too shattered to listen. She never imagined heartbreak could feel this painful.
"I'm just a traveler," Kenneth continued. "Stopped here to rest for a while. This island is beautiful. The people are warm and welcoming—they treat me like family. I’ve grown quite fond of this place. That’s why I’m still here."
Rowena studied him again, from head to toe. He clearly wasn’t a local. His speech was refined, like the nobles who often docked here. And he didn’t seem to know the truth about this island.
Kenneth faced her. "Don't lose hope. No matter the problem, God is always there to help."
His voice was gentle, but something in the way he looked at her made Rowena uneasy. Was he… enchanted by her?
"What were you doing here?" Kenneth asked. "Why were you standing so close to the edge?"
Rowena lowered her gaze. She had meant to throw herself off the cliff. But she had no idea how, or why, this man had found her.
She forced a small smile. "It’s nothing." She turned back toward the sea.
"I don’t believe that."
"Believe whatever you want. We don’t know each other. My problems have nothing to do with you."
Kenneth chuckled softly. "I’m no fortune teller, but… I can see it in your eyes. Something is weighing on you. Don’t let despair consume you."
Rowena clenched her fists. Her eyes welled up again. "Is it… wrong to be different?"
Kenneth frowned. "What do you mean?"
She turned to face him before lowering her gaze once more. "I was abandoned by my husband. He didn’t even touch me."
Kenneth fell silent.
"Because…" Rowena hesitated. It hurt to say it out loud. "Because I was born with a tail. Like an animal."
Kenneth’s eyes widened slightly. He stepped closer. "A tail?" He paused, as if processing her words. "Then… it's true? There really are people in this world born with tails?"
Rowena looked at him. "What do you mean? You… know about people like me?"
Kenneth smiled faintly and shook his head. "If you don’t mind me asking… what’s your name?"
She hesitated.
"Don’t worry. I mean no harm. I just want to know your name."
"Rowena."
Kenneth held her gaze, then nodded slowly. "I see. That’s why you were standing at the cliff’s edge."
Rowena looked away. He had seen right through her.
"Let it go, Miss Rowena. Maybe your husband was just… shocked."
Rowena shook her head. "People only care about appearances. They called me a monster the moment they saw what I really was." She looked up at Kenneth. "Sir Pelton, do you think I’m a monster?"
"No," he said firmly. "Don’t say that about yourself. You are human, just like anyone else."
"You truly believe that?"
Kenneth smiled. "Come on. Go home, Miss Rowena. Maybe your husband has left you, but your family is surely waiting for you."
Rowena shook her head. "I was disowned. I have no one left."
Kenneth was silent, staring at her.
Rowena stared at the house made of stone and clay. It was a little secluded, away from the bustling crowd. The port was about a two-hour walk from there. And from the looks of it, Kenneth lived alone.
“Stay here for a while. There’s a separate room at the back, so... there won’t be any unnecessary gossip. This house belonged to an old lady, but she passed away. I’m just stopping here temporarily, waiting for the right time to continue my journey to another continent.”
“Won’t I be a burden to you?”
“Not at all. I know you’re not ready to face your family yet. But my advice is—go home. The best place for you is with them.”
Rowena fell silent. Kenneth smiled before heading inside.
Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. Nearly three months had passed since Rowena started living in Kenneth Pelton’s house. And as time went by, Kenneth found himself more and more drawn to her. There was something about the mysterious young woman that captivated him.
“Miss Rowena.”
Rowena, who was picking fresh herbs, flinched slightly at Kenneth’s voice. “Yes, Sir Pelton?”
Kenneth chuckled softly. “How many times do I have to tell you? Just call me Kenneth. We’re both human—there’s no need for titles.”
“And how many times have I told you not to call me ‘Miss’? We are equals in the eyes of God.”
Rowena looked down, suddenly aware of Kenneth’s gaze on her. She absentmindedly brushed her fingers over the leafy greens growing abundantly near his house.
Kenneth hesitated, carefully choosing his words. He didn’t want to say anything that might upset her. But he couldn’t shake the nervousness building inside him. Would she reject him? Or... did she feel the same way?
“Can I ask you something?”
“What is it?”
Kenneth hesitated again, his hands growing cold. Then, taking a deep breath, he asked, “Have you... moved on from your former husband?”
Rowena froze. “What do you mean?”
“It’s nothing, I just...” Kenneth finally met her eyes. “From the moment I first saw you, I’ve wanted to make you my wife. Will you... be my partner in life?”
Rowena blinked, stunned. She had no words. Kenneth’s proposal came so suddenly, and she wasn’t prepared for it.
Kenneth nodded slowly. “I know I’m not worthy of someone as beautiful as you, but... I mean it.”
Rowena remained silent. She never imagined that someone like Kenneth would want her as his wife.
“I am ignorant,” she murmured, looking down. “I lack the knowledge to live a life of faith. You are a nobleman, respected by the people of Red Dragon Village. A mere sparrow is not meant to be with an eagle.”
Kenneth frowned. “Why would you say that? Do you think you’re unworthy because of your... tail? Every creation of God is beautiful. He has the power to create as He pleases. Who are we to question His design?”
“But... I was once another man’s wife.”
Kenneth exhaled deeply. “I can wait. When the time is right, you can consider it.” He took a small step closer. “Clear water doesn’t come from a muddy well. I know you’re not the demon they claim you to be. And if you lack knowledge, we can learn together. I’m not as noble as people think.”
Rowena was speechless. She never expected to meet a man willing to accept her, even after knowing the truth about her.
“If you truly mean what you say...” Rowena lowered her gaze, blushing. “Then I accept.”
Kenneth went still. “You... accept my proposal?”
Rowena nodded shyly, avoiding his gaze. Kenneth let out a deep breath of relief, gratitude swelling in his chest.
Rowena stopped walking. They had been traveling the entire day, and now, they had finally reached the foot of Seventh Mount. She looked around, her heart growing heavier with each passing second.
“What’s wrong, Rowena?”
“My home is just ahead.”
“Then why stop here? Let’s go.” Kenneth turned back when he realized she hadn’t moved. “What are you afraid of? There’s no way your family would abandon their own.”
Rowena remained silent.
“Rowena.” Kenneth’s voice was gentle but firm.
She looked up at him. “I...”
Kenneth took a step closer. “I’m sure your family will welcome you back with open arms. Just like you miss them, they must have missed you too. Come on.”
Rowena took a deep breath, gathering her courage before following Kenneth up the mountain. Their journey led them to an old, weathered gate, abandoned for who knew how long. Above it, a wooden sign bore a line of carved words.
“Lantern Light Palace?” Kenneth read the inscription aloud, then turned to Rowena.
She lowered her gaze, unable to meet his eyes.
“Lantern Light Palace? You’re a...” Kenneth took a step back. “A princess?”
Rowena hesitated before looking up.
“Rowena Priscilla Maulden. The youngest daughter of King Edgar Maulden.” Kenneth frowned. “How did I not realize it before?”
“Kenneth...” Rowena shifted uncomfortably.
He studied her face, his thoughts racing. “You’re royalty.”
Rowena shook her head. “I’m just an ordinary princess. Lantern Light Palace is old now—there is no longer a kingdom or a people to rule. Those who remain here simply want to live in peace and happiness. The palace has become nothing more than a home, no longer a seat of power. Behind this abandoned gate is a small village, Lantern Light Village, where only a few families reside.”
Kenneth remained silent, unsure how to respond.
“Let's go, Kenneth.”
Slowly, he followed Rowena toward a grand stone building that still stood strong despite its age. It was large and spacious, with intricate floral carvings adorning its exterior walls. Inside the gates, a beautiful courtyard unfolded before them, complete with a pond and a flourishing garden. The atmosphere was serene and welcoming.
“Prince Gilbert,” Rowena called out as a man passed by one of the doorways.
The man turned, his eyes widening in shock. “Rowena? My sister, Princess Rowena?”
The air grew thick with emotion as the long-separated siblings finally reunited.
Moments later, another man, middle-aged and dressed in a simple blue robe and turban, appeared alongside a younger man. The older man barely had time to speak before Rowena rushed forward, throwing herself into his arms, sobbing.
“Forgive me. I disobeyed you, Father. I’ve paid the price for my stubbornness.”
King Edgar Maulden gently patted his daughter’s back. “Do not cry, my child. What matters is that you’ve returned. We have all missed you dearly. I thank the heavens for bringing you home safely.” He brushed her hair back, placing a tender kiss on her forehead.
Rowena then embraced her other brother, Prince Henry, before turning and pulling Kenneth forward.
“This is Kenneth Pelton, Father. I’ve been staying at his home all this time.”
King Edgar Maulden studied Kenneth closely, making the young man shift awkwardly under his gaze. The king furrowed his brows, deep in thought.
“This is the young man from my dream.”
Rowena frowned. “Dream?” She glanced at Kenneth, confused.
The king stepped closer, looking Kenneth up and down. “Kenneth Pelton, a man of noble character. One with honor and virtue.”
“Your Majesty...” Kenneth quickly interrupted. “Please, do not place such high praise upon me. I am not as noble as you say.” He bowed deeply before the humble king.
“I am no longer a king. There is no need for such formalities.” King Edgar Maulden gently took Rowena’s hand, placing her beside Kenneth. His gaze shifted between the two of them.
Rowena and Kenneth exchanged glances, uncertain of the meaning behind the king’s knowing smile. Both of them lowered their heads, cheeks burning with embarrassment.
Lantern Light Palace was aglow with oil lamps, lighting up every corner. A grand feast was being held—both to celebrate Rowena’s return and to mark her wedding to Kenneth Pelton. The villagers, once citizens of the Lantern Light Empire, had been invited to join the joyous occasion.
Kenneth approached Rowena, who stood by the second-floor window, lost in thought. No words were needed—one look into each other’s eyes was enough to convey everything in their hearts. Gently, he pulled his wife into his embrace, and she leaned her head against his shoulder.
“Do you regret marrying me?”
“What are you talking about? Stop belittling yourself.”
“But—”
Kenneth tightened his arms around her, pausing before he spoke. “If I were to regret marrying you, that would make me a wretched man.”
Rowena lifted her head and looked at him. Kenneth smiled, brushing his hand gently over her hair.
“My wife is beautiful, like the moon surrounded by stars.”
Rowena lowered her gaze, smiling shyly.
Kenneth tilted her chin up, studying her face intently. “No matter what you look like, only good character leads to paradise. So don’t dwell on what people say. Just stay true to your heart and your intentions.”
Rowena was silent for a moment before nodding. She nestled back into his arms, their peaceful moment interrupted only by the laughter of children playing in the palace courtyard.
She smiled, then looked up at the moon. “If you don’t mind me asking, where exactly do you come from?”
Kenneth paused before answering, his tone playful. “I have traveled far and wide, seeking knowledge to enrich my soul.”
“Oh, come on! That’s not an answer.”
Kenneth chuckled at Rowena’s adorable pout. “Kenneth Pelton has no family—for he walks this world alone.”
Rowena straightened, her eyes searching his.
“I am an orphan, my love. I was raised by a priest, who taught me everything he knew before passing away. After that, I left my childhood home and wandered the world.”
“I can’t imagine what my life would be like without my father or my brothers, Prince Gilbert and Prince Henry. They are my world. Without them, I’d feel lost.” She turned to Kenneth, cupping his cheek tenderly. “But having you, my love, makes my happiness even more complete.”
Kenneth smiled, holding her gaze. “You really do know how to say the sweetest things.”
They both laughed. Kenneth pulled her close again, taking a deep breath. He hesitated, unsure if he should say what was on his mind. What if she refused?
“My love,” he murmured.
“Yes?”
“I’ve always dreamed of traveling to the ends of the earth... but this time, with the love of my life by my side.” His eyes softened. “Would you be willing to journey the world with me?”
Rowena went quiet, taking in his words.
“It’s alright if you don’t want to,” Kenneth quickly added. “I would never force you—”
Rowena gently placed a finger over his lips. “Don’t say that, my love. It would be my greatest honor. I will follow you wherever you go.”
Kenneth looked at her in surprise. “You don’t mind leaving your father and your family behind?”
“I am your wife now. And isn’t a wife’s place beside her husband?”
Kenneth’s heart swelled with relief and joy—he never expected her to say yes.
And so, the husband and wife set off a few weeks later. But Rowena couldn’t stop crying as she bid farewell to her family and friends.
“There, there, my child. Why cry over something that should bring you happiness? Your family and I are overjoyed to see you happy with Kenneth. He is a noble man, one who accepts you—and all of us—wholeheartedly.”
“Wipe your tears, my dear. Don’t let this farewell be filled with sadness. It breaks my heart to see you like this.”
King Edgar Maulden fought back his own tears. It was unbearably hard to let go of his only daughter, the precious jewel he had cherished and protected all his life.
“Father...” Rowena clung tightly to him.
She couldn’t explain why, but she felt uneasy about leaving. As if something terrible was going to happen. As if this goodbye was forever, and she might never see her family again.
“Be happy, both of you. I bless any path that brings you goodness.” King Edgar Maulden pulled both Rowena and Kenneth into an embrace. “Go now. The ship is about to sail.”
As soon as the ship carrying Rowena and Kenneth set sail, Rowena’s family and loved ones who had gathered at the port slowly began to leave. Though the initial sadness had lessened, a sense of unease still lingered in Rowena’s heart.
Kenneth wrapped an arm around his wife’s shoulders. “Don’t worry too much. We’ll always return to visit your father and brothers.”
Rowena found some comfort in his words. She turned to look out the ship’s window, her gaze fixed on Seventh Mount—the mountain where she was born, where she played and grew up. The place that had taught her about the world, and the place where she once loved Ernest… only to be discarded by him in the most humiliating way.
A frown creased her forehead when she saw a thick plume of black smoke rising from the mountain’s peak. She straightened up, her eyes narrowing.
“What’s wrong, my love?”
“Kenneth, look over there. Is that… smoke?”
Kenneth followed her gaze, his brow furrowing. “What kind of smoke is that?” Something unsettled him, but he kept his thoughts to himself, not wanting to worry Rowena unnecessarily.
“If my eyes aren’t deceiving me, that smoke is coming from the peak of Seventh Mount. From Father’s palace.”
Rowena and Kenneth exchanged a look. Without hesitation, Rowena rushed to the ship’s captain, pleading to disembark. Kenneth tried to stop her, but she was adamant—she had to see for herself what was happening.
“There’s no need to overreact. It’s probably just some bonfire. Or maybe they’re celebrating something.”
“No, Kenneth. I have a bad feeling about this. Please, let me go back. I need to see what’s really happening.”
Reluctantly, Kenneth gave in.
Rowena wasted no time. The half-day journey felt agonizingly long, as if she had been traveling for months. The footprints left by King Edgar Maulden and the others felt like they were slipping further and further away from her. The closer she got, the more her heart pounded in anxiety.
The moment she stepped onto Lantern Light Village, a horrifying sight awaited her. The entire palace and the surrounding settlement were engulfed in flames. No one had survived.
Rowena desperately searched for her father and brothers, but they were nowhere to be found. The charred remains of Lantern Light’s villagers lay scattered, burned beyond recognition.
She fell to her knees, her trembling hands grasping the ashen ground. The once-proud Lantern Light Palace was nothing but scorched stone walls. A heartbreaking wail tore from her lips. Watching the destruction before her felt as if half of her soul had been ripped away.
Kenneth lowered his head, his eyes glistening. The sight of Lantern Light reduced to ruins filled him with sorrow. Rowena… she was all alone now.
Her fingers brushed against something on the ground. A small, smooth object. She picked it up and wiped away the soot, revealing a crimson crystal. She froze, deep in thought.
“Rowena, what is it?”
Rowena didn’t respond. She studied the crystal, its presence unsettling.
“What are you holding?” Kenneth asked again, now worried by her silence.
“This belongs to Ernest.” Rowena gritted her teeth. “This… this is the work of the Red Dragon Village.”
Kenneth stiffened. He took the crystal from her hand and looked around. He knew the people of Red Dragon Village had always harbored resentment toward Lantern Light, but could they really have done something this monstrous?
“We don’t know for sure who’s behind this, Rowena. It’s not right to accuse anyone without proof.”
Rowena shook her head firmly. “I’m not accusing blindly. This is Ernest and Mr. Salford’s doing. They’ve always despised me and the entire Lantern Light people.”
“Rowena…”
A voice—weak and trembling—called out. A man in tattered, burnt clothes stumbled toward them, his body covered in burns.
“Henry…”
Rowena rushed forward to catch her brother as he collapsed into her arms. “Henry, what happened?”
Prince Henry was barely clinging to life, his breaths shallow. “On our way back to the palace… Father and I were ambushed by the Red Dragon villagers. Mr. Salford threatened Father… demanding to know your whereabouts.” His voice cracked. “Father refused… so they tortured him. They attacked Lantern Light… even before Father sent you away… to the port. They massacred everyone…” He struggled to breathe.
“And worse…” Henry swallowed hard. “They… they cut off and took Father’s tail. And the others’ too. I barely escaped… when everything burned. But they caught me… they almost killed me. I was lucky… to make it this far. Rowena…”
“Henry…”
Kenneth caught Henry’s weakening body and held him against his shoulder. After a few moments, Henry’s breath faded. His body went limp.
“Henry…” Rowena broke down in tears.
“Don’t do this, my love.” Kenneth gently placed a hand on her shoulder, trying to ground her.
“They’re monsters!” Rowena clenched the crimson crystal in her fist. “This is proof, Kenneth! I wasn’t accusing blindly. Henry was the witness!”
Kenneth let out a slow, weary sigh. He rubbed Rowena’s back gently. “Vengeance is forbidden, my love. Let’s go. There’s nothing we can do here.”
“Kenneth…”
“Let’s go.”
The burial took longer than expected—they had to lay to rest so many bodies.
"My love, shall we go?" Kenneth wrapped his arms around Rowena’s shoulders. Her tears had dried, but he knew how much pain she was carrying. Losing her father and both of her brothers at once was a wound that would never fully heal.
"They were cruel, Kenneth. How could Mr. Salford murder my family? What crime did my father and the people of Lantern Light commit? Why, Kenneth? Why?" Rowena broke down again.
"Patience, my love. Good things will come if we endure. God promises endless blessings for those who remain steadfast through trials and hardships."
Kenneth never expected the nightmare he had months ago would actually come true. In that dream, he had seen a castle engulfed in flames, everyone inside slaughtered. He had witnessed, as if in real life, Rowena’s family being murdered in the most brutal way.
That was why he had urged Rowena to leave the mountain. He couldn’t bear the thought of losing her too. But fate was cruel—his nightmare had turned into reality. Still, he was grateful Rowena had survived.
After making sure King Edgar Maulden’s grave and the others were properly tended to, Kenneth took Rowena away from Seventh Mount. This time, he wasn’t just taking her on a journey around the world—he wanted to pull her far from the painful memories of this island. Rowena needed a fresh start, a new life where she could heal from her losses.
The ship that had docked that night was already sounding its horn, signaling departure. The crew moved quickly, lifting the anchor. Kenneth held Rowena’s hand tightly. From this moment on, he would be the only person she could rely on.
"Come on, my love..."
Rowena followed without a word. But just minutes after they boarded, a group of men came running towards the ship.
Their steps were swift, purposeful. In an instant, they seized Rowena, pulling her away.
"Kenneth!"
"Stop!" Kenneth yanked Rowena back to his side. "Who are you people? What do you want from my wife?"
"I'm sorry, Sir Pelton," one of the men said. "But we must take this woman with us."
"No. I won’t allow it. If you want to take my wife, you’ll have to face me first and explain why!" Kenneth shifted into a defensive stance.
The men hesitated, swallowing nervously. None of them wanted to go up against Kenneth Pelton, a man known for his unmatched martial skills.
"Because she’s a demon."
A voice rang out from behind them.
"Ernest?"
Ernest stepped forward, a smug smile on his face. The men parted to let him through.
"You think you can run, Rowena? A demon like you must be eradicated. Your kind only brings destruction to this world. We will never let you escape."
Rowena clenched her jaw, seething with anger.
"Don’t do this, Ernest." Kenneth positioned himself protectively in front of Rowena. "She’s human, just like us."
Ernest didn’t respond immediately.
"Rowena is my wife. I know her better than anyone. Are you all really going to condemn her without proof?" Kenneth tried to reason, hoping to de-escalate the situation.
"You married a demon," Ernest stated coldly.
"No. Not at all. Rowena is a normal human being. My wife is not a demon."
Ernest scoffed. "You are a noble man, Sir Pelton, and a powerful one. I won’t harm you. But I will take the demon."
"She is my wife. If you wish to lay a hand on her, you’ll have to go through me first."
A brief silence fell between them. Ernest knew better than to attack Kenneth head-on. He had to be smart about this.
"Kenneth!" Rowena screamed as Kenneth suddenly collapsed, a thin needle embedded in his neck. The tranquilizer worked instantly, his body hitting the floor with a heavy thud.
"Kenneth!"
Rowena stared at the moonlight filtering through a tiny hole in the prison wall. The moment she was taken to Red Dragon Village, they had locked her up. As for Kenneth—she had no idea what had happened to him.
"My love..."
Tears rolled down her cheeks again. She had thought that after Lantern Light was destroyed, the people of Red Dragon would stop hunting her. But now, it was the opposite.
She flinched when the small hatch on the prison door slid open. A hand reached in, offering a glass of water and a plate of rice with some side dishes.
"Please, let me go. I need to see my husband. Please..."
Her plea was ignored. The hatch was shut again. Rowena pounded on the iron door several times, but no one responded. Defeated, she slumped against the door, staring at the food left for her.
"How can I eat at a time like this? Water tastes like thorns, and rice feels like chaff in my mouth." She shut her eyes tightly. "Where are you? Please... save me..." She hugged her knees, her body trembling as she cried. "My love..."
Her sobs stopped when she heard something—whispers, right next to her ear. Heart pounding, she jumped to her feet, her eyes scanning the small, dim cell.
"Who... who's there?"
Suddenly, her body froze. Her mouth hung open slightly. Her limbs felt paralyzed, stiff as stone. Then, her eyes turned completely black.
Her vision blurred for a moment before scenes began playing in her mind.
The first scene showed Ernest, Mr. Salford, and several Red Dragon villagers.
"Up there on the mountain, demons run wild. If we don’t wipe them out, they will destroy human civilization. The people of Red Dragon are in grave danger. All our lives are at risk if we let them live," a middle-aged man spoke. He held a wooden prayer bead in his left hand, while his right gripped a staff topped with a wolf’s head. His hair flowed past his shoulders, and his beard and mustache were completely white.
"Ernest, how could you fall in love with a demon? You even married her and nearly lay with her. Luckily, you divorced that woman. Otherwise, Red Dragon would have been cursed," another villager scoffed.
Ernest said nothing, just shaking his head.
"So, Master, what do we do now?" Mr. Salford asked.
"Kill them. Burn them all. Leave not a single one alive. These filthy demons dare to live among humans. But..."
"But what, Master?"
"Their tails hold extraordinary power. If used correctly, they can cure any illness," the old man said with absolute certainty. The others nodded in agreement.
The second scene showed Ernest, Mr. Salford, and their men attacking King Edgar Maulden and Lantern Light. They slaughtered every living soul without mercy. Rowena's breathing became ragged, fury building up inside her.
"Demonic whispers exist everywhere in human life, my love."
Kenneth’s voice echoed in her mind, snapping her out of the trance.
Rowena looked around. "Kenneth?"
A shadowy figure emerged in the dim moonlight spilling into the dark cell. She took a step back, pressing herself against the wall as the figure moved closer. Her eyes widened.
"My love, Kenneth?" She almost reached out to embrace him but hesitated, stepping back again. "You’re not Kenneth. Who are you?"
"It’s me, your husband. Come here." The figure that looked exactly like Kenneth Pelton stretched out its arms, waiting for her embrace.
"No. You’re not Kenneth. You’re not my husband. Get away from me!"
The figure suddenly burst into laughter. "How naive you are, Princess. Even after losing everything, you still let your family’s murderer walk free. Don’t you feel any rage?"
Rowena steadied herself. Whatever this thing was, it wasn’t Kenneth. But she refused to let fear take over. No creature was more powerful than God—that was what Kenneth had always told her.
"Anger is the trait of demons. I am not a demon. I have no reason to be angry." She stared at the figure. "Whoever you are, leave. I will not become a killer just to satisfy your whims. Do not try to corrupt me."
The figure grinned. "You may not seek revenge on Ernest and Joseph. But that shaman—he is the true mastermind. If not for his prophecy, your family might still be alive."
Rowena smirked. "Whoever was behind it, whoever pulled the trigger, their fate is in God’s hands. Let Him be their judge."
The figure tilted its head. "Very well, then. I won’t force you. But I know—one day, you will beg for my help. When that time comes, don’t forget one thing. My name... is Typhon."
And with that, the figure vanished.
Rowena let out a shaky breath and slid down the wall until she was sitting on the cold floor.
"God allows demons to test mankind. But those who hold on to their faith will be safe. Those who do not... will suffer. Demonic whispers take many forms."
Kenneth’s voice echoed in her mind once more.
"Kenneth..."
Rowena looked around. She was locked inside a cage, with her hands and feet chained to a stretcher. Only her head could stick out through a small opening at the top of the cage.
She shut her eyes tight as she failed to dodge an egg hurled straight at her. Paraded through the main street of Red Dragon Village, she was met with curses and insults. Treated worse than an animal in a cage.
“Damn demon! Die already!”
“Chop her head off! Feed it to the dogs and wolves!”
“Kill her!”
Along the way, she was bombarded with rotten vegetables, spoiled food, dirty water, sewage filth, eggs, stones—anything they could get their hands on. She endured the torment until they reached the usual execution site for criminals.
The cage was placed in the center of the clearing and unlocked. Covered in filth and the stench of rotting food, Rowena was dragged toward a pile of firewood.
“Wait.”
Mr. Salford raised his hand, stopping the two men dragging her. “I want her questioned first. Bring her before Master Knutton.”
Rowena was shoved forward and forced to kneel in front of a man they called Master Knutton. His sharp gaze bore into her.
“You have two choices,” Mr. Salford stated firmly. “Give us your tail, and we’ll let you go to be with your husband. Or refuse, and we’ll kill you and take the tail anyway.”
Rowena’s eyes moved across the crowd—Mr. Salford, Master Knutton, the villagers—and finally settled on Ernest. The man who once loved her with all his heart now looked at her with nothing but disgust.
“You must choose!” Master Knutton snapped, cracking a whip against Rowena’s back.
She clenched her teeth, her breathing heavy, face flushed from the pain. Bowing her head for a moment, she slowly lifted her face and stared straight at him. “I’d rather die than betray myself.”
The whip lashed out again, cutting across her left arm and back. Skin tore. Blood seeped through the fabric.
Rowena turned to Ernest. “Ernest, don’t you pity me? I hold no grudge against you. Why are you doing this to me?” Her voice trembled. “Have you forgotten how you fell in love with me? How we first met?
“You saved me from that dark creature in Seventh Mount. You fought for my father’s approval to marry me. My brothers welcomed you with kindness. And now… you repay love with cruelty. Why, Ernest?”
Ernest smirked. “Because you’re a demon. Your presence will only bring chaos to Red Dragon Village.”
Rowena shook her head, tears welling in her eyes. “I’m not a demon, Ernest…” She sobbed.
“If it looks like a snake, it’s not an eel,” he said coldly. “No human has a tail. You’re an animal. And animals should be treated as such.”
Laughter erupted from Mr. Salford’s men.
“A talking animal, no less! One that dares to seduce a human! Filthy beast!”
“Master, just kill the demon already!”
“Yeah! Kill her!”
The crowd roared in agreement. But they fell silent as Mr. Salford raised his hand again.
“Patience. The tails of other demons have been useless to us. Which means… this woman’s tail must be the one Master Knutton spoke of. Am I right, Master?”
Master Knutton rose from his seat and approached Rowena. Without warning, he lifted his leg and kicked her hard in the chest, sending her sprawling onto the hard stone ground.
Kneeling beside her, he grabbed a handful of her hair and yanked her upright. He then ripped off her headscarf, revealing long, wavy black hair cascading past her waist.
“Bring him out.”
At his command, a few men carried out Kenneth Pelton on a stretcher and placed him before Rowena.
Rowena gasped. “My love…” Her tears fell freely as she tried to crawl toward him.
Two men held her back, preventing her from reaching Kenneth, who remained unconscious.
“This is your final chance,” Master Knutton said. “Give us your tail willingly, and you and your husband will be free. Or refuse… and you both die.”
Rowena remained silent, eyes locked on Kenneth. “My love…”
Then, from the corner of her eye, she spotted him—Typhon.
He stood among the crowd, wearing Kenneth’s face, smiling at her.
Rowena’s heart pounded. Doubt crept in.
For the first time… she wavered.
"Even if your life is at the tip of a sword, you must defend your dignity as a woman. That’s the only price a woman truly has. Promise me." Kenneth voice echoed in her head.
Rowena shook her head violently. "No. No! I will never let you treat my body like some kind of animal. Ernest, please… help me."
But Ernest didn’t even spare her a glance.
Rowena turned to Mr. Salford. "Father, for the sake of the bond we once had, please… please let me go."
Mr. Salford remained silent, ignoring her desperate pleas.
Tears streamed down Rowena’s face as she turned to Kenneth, lying unconscious in front of her. Then suddenly, her sobs stopped.
"If I’m truly a demon, why do you still want the tail of this so-called demon? If my tail was really magical, don’t you think I’d have escaped from here already?"
Ernest narrowed his eyes, stepping closer and grabbing Rowena’s chin roughly. "That tail… can heal my sister’s illness."
Rowena frowned. Mabel. Ernest’s 16-year-old sister. She suffered from a mysterious condition—unable to be exposed to sunlight or night air without her skin peeling off and festering.
"And what makes you think my tail could heal her?" Rowena’s gaze flickered toward Master Knutton.
Master Knutton glared at her, the same man who had ordered her capture. The same man she had seen in her vision the night before—the one who convinced the people of Red Dragon Village to wipe out King Edgar Maulden’s entire bloodline.
"Ernest, don’t believe in superstition. Don't put your faith in witchcraft." Rowena still had hope that Ernest wasn’t beyond saving.
Ernest slapped Rowena across the face, then laughed. "I never thought that a demon’s body part would be the cure for my sister. But that just proves you shouldn’t exist. With you gone, Red Dragon Village will be safe."
Rowena shook her head, her voice breaking. "Please, Ernest… I beg you…"
Her cries were ignored. Ernest grabbed a fistful of her hair and yanked her head back.
"Even if you beg on your knees, no human will ever help a demon!"
"Ernest!"
Rowena collapsed onto the stone floor, her face burning from another slap. She sobbed, crawling towards Kenneth, but Ernest’s boot slammed into her stomach. She gasped, clutching her belly, struggling to stand.
"You’re a heartless bastard, Ernest. You only loved me when I was beautiful. But the moment you saw the truth, you discarded me like trash. You slaughtered my family. I will never forgive you."
Ernest laughed mockingly. "Enough of this nonsense. Master, get rid of her."
Before Master Knutton could take a step, an arrow came out of nowhere—piercing Kenneth’s chest.
Gasps filled the air as blood seeped through Kenneth’s shirt.
"Kenneth!"
Rowena rushed to his limp body, hugging him tightly. "My love… Kenneth..."
A man emerged from the shadows, twirling his bow with a smirk. Ernest grinned.
"Let’s finish this wretched couple once and for all," Ernest said, raising his sword.
Rowena clenched her eyes shut. If this was her end, then so be it. She no longer cared about her own life.
"If the time comes, don’t forget one thing. My name… is Typhon."
A whisper echoed in her mind.
Rowena’s eyes snapped open, locking onto Typhon, who stood among the villagers.
She sat up straight. Her tears stopped.
Rowena rose to her feet. "Typhon!"
At that moment, a massive whirlwind erupted around her. Dust and debris swirled violently in the air. Her head tilted back, arms outstretched. Her mouth hung open. Her irises darkened into a bottomless black. Her once neatly braided hair unraveled, billowing wildly in the storm.
The wind howled louder, sweeping up everything in its path. The people of Red Dragon Village screamed, scattering in terror. Only Master Knutton, Ernest, Mr. Salford, and a handful of followers remained.
Master Knutton gripped his prayer beads, raising his wolf-headed staff to the sky. He began chanting, his voice growing louder with each foreign syllable.
"I summon you, Typhon. Kill them! Destroy them all!" Rowena’s voice thundered through the storm.
The moment she spoke, a towering sandstorm surged from the sea, racing towards Red Dragon Village like a vengeful beast.
It swallowed everything. Buildings. Trees. Lives.
In mere minutes, the entire village was gone.
Silence fell.
Rowena opened her eyes. Nothing remained—not even a trace of the land that once stood here. Only she and Typhon remained.
She scanned the ruins, searching for Kenneth’s body. But he was gone. It no longer mattered. He was already dead.
Rowena turned toward the vast, endless ocean. Her expression was void of emotion.
"The ocean does not rage without the wind that stirs its waters. A heart does not burn with vengeance unless it has been wronged. May your sins be buried here, along with your corrupted souls. Disappear from this world forever. The likes of you only bring destruction wherever you go."
Typhon smirked at the venom in her words.
"My love..."
Rowena froze.
That voice… she knew it well.
Rowena turned around, speechless as she saw her husband standing right in front of her. She froze, unable to believe that Kenneth was still alive. She was certain it was Typhon. But Typhon was standing not far from Kenneth. They both looked exactly the same. For a moment, Rowena was completely lost.
“Kenneth… aren’t you supposed to be dead?”
Kenneth stepped closer, looking her up and down before letting out a quiet sigh. “They only put me to sleep, not kill me. I’m your husband… I’m still alive.” He lowered his gaze.
“Do you realize, Princess Rowena Priscilla Maulden, that your husband, Kenneth Pelton, knew about the disaster that would befall your family before it even happened?” Typhon’s voice whispered inside her head.
Rowena turned to look at Typhon. “What do you mean, Typhon?” she asked telepathically.
“Kenneth Pelton had a dream about the fire. That’s why he wanted to take you far away from here. Because he didn’t want to die along with King Edgar Maulden and the rest of them.”
Rowena fell silent, staring at Kenneth, who still wouldn’t lift his head. Her lips trembled, wanting to scream, to lash out at him for deceiving her before their marriage. But love… love always won.
“My love…” Rowena reached for Kenneth’s left hand.
Kenneth finally lifted his head and shook it weakly. “Why did you go this far? You wiped out the entire Red Dragon Village…”
Rowena didn’t respond. She knew she had made a mistake. But it was too late. Nothing could be undone now.
“My love…”
Kenneth sighed. “I regret all of this. You’ve crossed the line. You’re no longer just an ordinary human. And I… I can’t change you.”
“My love…”
Kenneth looked deep into Rowena’s eyes. “What’s done is done. There’s no going back.” He shook his head. “I failed to guide you. I’m a useless husband.” His face was full of sorrow.
“Don’t say that. Don’t we love each other? I did all of this… for you.”
Kenneth shook his head again. He gently let go of Rowena’s hand and stepped back. The disappointment in his eyes was clear. Rowena felt her heart sink.
“The truth is just words on the tongue, my love. My entire family was slaughtered. Where is justice in this world? Am I wrong for avenging my father and my brothers?”
Kenneth’s gaze softened with sadness. “Life is not given by vows, nor is death sealed by oaths. Only God decides who lives and who dies. Humans don’t have that power.”
“My love…”
“Let go of your hatred. It will destroy you.” Kenneth turned away and took a step forward. He hesitated for a moment, lowering his head. “Forgive me… for being too weak to protect you.”
“My love…”
Kenneth lifted his head and closed his eyes tightly. “Lord, forgive my sins… and my wife’s.” A single tear rolled down his cheek.
Another tear fell from Rowena’s pitch-black eyes. Watching her beloved husband turn his back on her, she sobbed, holding back the storm of emotions inside her. She clenched her fists and wiped her tears away.
“I have no one left… How could you leave me, Kenneth…”
Kenneth ignored her cries. Without looking back, he walked away, disappearing into the wild forests of the Seventh Mount.
Rowena stood there, swaying like a lost soul. Her breath hitched, and her face twisted in fury. “That wretched man… His betrayal is even more vile than that snake Ernest.”
Then, she wept. “My love, Kenneth Pelton… How could you abandon me? Has your love for me vanished?”
Suddenly, her cries turned into laughter—loud, shrill, echoing through the vast, empty land. And with that laughter, she exhaled a burst of crimson fire into the air. Her body shifted, morphed, transformed into a massive dragon with enormous wings. Without hesitation, she soared toward the ocean, diving into its depths.
As silence took over the deserted island, Typhon let out a slow chuckle before vanishing into thin air.
Kenneth took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. His tightly shut eyes fluttered open, and there, in his line of sight, was Typhon. Rising from his seated position, he stretched slightly, taking a brief pause from his meditation.
"You truly are a master of deception, Typhon. I am just a mere human—weak and flawed. My faith rests in God alone. And you… you will never succeed in leading mankind astray."
Typhon would never stop dragging humans to hell with him. A demon capable of taking any form he desired, he had long since crossed all limits.
Typhon let out a loud, wicked laugh. "So, tell me, Kenneth… how does it feel now? Red Dragon Village is gone—completely erased. And all that's left is the Red Dragon Queen, seething with hatred against humanity. On this vast, empty island… it's just you and me now."
Kenneth Pelton didn’t respond. His gaze drifted toward the endless ocean.
"My love…"
Rowena was gone—swallowed by Typhon’s poisonous whispers. Cursed to become a dragon, she had vanished into the deep, dark abyss of the sea.
~~~
Thank you for reading. 💖
