The dawn was spilling over snow-capped peaks, stretching it's long golden shadows across the valleys of the majestic mountains and illuminating the snow-covered hills. The crisp and clean air was carrying the scent of pine and freshly fallen snow.
The majestic Hima Mountains, was standing guard to the east and north while kissing the heavens and harbouring ancient secrets and treacherous paths.
To the west, the scorching Sahora Desert was stretching its endless sands, a testament to nature's harsh beauty testing the limits of human endurance. To the south was the vast Indiana Sea, seemingly calm but hiding unpredictable currents and creatures lurking beneath its surface.
Amidst of these stunning natural barriers, nestled the Silver Heaven Region, a land of hope for humanity's future. In the heart of this beautiful Silver Heaven Region is a magnificent Silver Heaven Town stands tall - a symbol of hope for humanity.
**********
Today was exceptionally cold. Yet, the streets of the Silver Heaven Market District were pulsing with a vibrant energy, adorned with twinkling lights illuminating the falling snowflakes on the vibrant stalls. The cheerful chime of jingle bells was soothing everyone against the biting cold.
The aroma of roasted chestnuts and sweet dumplings were mingling with the crisp winter air.
It was Yukiha Festival Eve, that had casted its spell upon Silver Heaven Market District, painting it in a tapestry of shimmering lights and cheerful melodies.
Families and couples, bundled in vibrant woollen clothes, were navigating the not-so-thick layer of snow as their laughter was echoing through the frosty festive air.
Some visitors were browsing the stalls overflowing with decorations, sweets, and gifts with their eyes sparkling with anticipation, while others were making their way to the shrine, seeking the blessings of the Snow Goddess, Yukiha.
And the children, oh, the children! They were rolling enormous snowballs, layering them into towering, three-story snow giants and playfully pelting their loved ones with snow balls with, filling the air with their joyous shrieks.
Amidst of this Yukiha Festival-lit bustling market, a handsome young man, no older than nineteen or twenty, was standing patiently before a women's clothing store, as his breath was misting in the frigid air.
He was clad in a long, black, furry winter coat that enveloped him in a warm embrace. Underneath, he wore a white, long-sleeved yukata. A blue striped muffler, wrapped snugly around his neck, added a splash of colour to his ensemble. His Black winter trousers completed the attire, practical yet stylish.
He dug his freezing fists deep into his coat pockets, anxiously awaiting, occasionally glancing at the store's entrance.
Small puffs of breath were escaping his lips with each exhale, as he was pacing restlessly back and forth to ward off the cold seeping into his bones despite his warm attire. He pulled his muffler tighter around his neck, seeking a bit more warmth.
Lanterns were illuminating the twilight sky, casting a warm glow on the bustling festival. While the young man was admiring a vibrant Yukiha Festival decoration, a girl emerged from a clothing store, wearing a brown furry winter coat over a yellow dress, black winter leggings, and a pink muffler wrapped snugly around her neck.
"Shaun, honey, look at this dress. Do you think this would look good on me?" She asked, showing a white dress with a delicate pattern of yellow, red, and blue flowers adorning the white fabric, clutched gently in her soft delicate hands.
That young man, whose name was Shaun, his attention captured by a girl as his eyes softened at the sight of her. That girl was his beloved wife. He admired the elegance of her dress before returning his gaze to his wife's hopeful face.
"Oh Natasha! You'd look beautiful in anything. But that dress... It would be absolutely stunning on you," He said with a warm smile lighting up his face as he pointed towards the garment.
Natasha's cheeks took on a gentle rosy hue, mirroring the soft blush of the adorning cherry blossoms. She averted her eyes momentarily as a shy smile was playing on her lips.
"Oh, you... You always know what to say. I'll be right back!" She giggles softly, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear.
She hurried back into the store. Shaun was watching her go, a gentle smile graced on his lips as a wave of warmth washed over his heart.
He then shifted his gaze back to the festival lights twinkled like captured stars, casting a warm glow on the snow-dusted streets. The festival lights blurred as Shaun lost himself in the tapestry of his memories shared with Natasha, each memory a precious thread woven into the fabric of their love.
Memories of his first meeting with Natasha, images of a younger Natasha and himself, playing in the garden. Natasha, with her bright eyes and adoring laugh, had instantly captivated him.
Their childhood bond, cultivated through shared secrets and whispered dreams, had blossomed into something deeper and significant. The scent of fresh sweets filled in the air, reminding him of the countless times they shared desserts, with Natasha always choosing the most sugary delights.
Their mutual interest in magic sparked a bond, that blossomed into something deeper than a mere friendship. From stolen glances to whispered conversations under the shade of an ancient banyan tree. Each memory was a testament to the depth of their love, a love that deepened with each passing year.
He remembered their first hesitant date, the nervous excitement that had thrummed through him as he walked her home under a sky dusted with stars.
"Natasha... that day is etched in my memory. Your heart was pounding like a war drum and your voice was quivering with emotion. You confessed me... Shaun, I love you. I want to be with you, forever. Your voice was barely a whisper. Quite odd, since I should have been the one to make the first move," A smile spread across Shaun's face.
"Then your father... was furious when he discovered about us. He wanted you marrying into a powerful, influential family, not to a Commoner like me. He looked down on me, accusing me unfit for his daughter," a hesitant smile crept on his face.
"But Natasha... you didn't care. We fled from our home, abandoning everything we knew, and then... we got married. You defied your family, renouncing your status of a daughter of a Magus Knight from Aristocrat family... for someone like me," he lowered his head as a wave of despair was engulfing him.
"You even sacrificed your dream... a golden opportunity to serve as a magus for the Silver Region Magus Knights and preferred to become my wife, so that I wouldn't feel small," He closed his eyes as his smile faded, replaced by a sombre expression.
"My wife Natasha is truly a great wife. You always embraced her role of a devoted wife. Today is our first anniversary and you didn't even ask for jewels or fancy gowns from me. You only wanted to spend this special day with me," he recalled her voice from this morning, soft and brimming with love.
"I had dreams too, once. If I were more like her... More courageous... Perhaps I could have offered her the life she deserves. A life beyond these muddy fields and worn-out rugs. She deserved more than a simple farmer like me. Natasha... I'm sorry. I failed you," He sighed in a deep, weary sound.
He glanced at the shop window, catching his own reflection, He felt a pang of guilt, the familiar burden of inadequacy settling in his chest. The market noise faded, replaced by the relentless hum of his own self-reproach. The vibrant colours of the stalls blurred, as a veil of unshed tears clouded his vision.
But then, he straightened his shoulders, wiped out tears, and steadied his gaze, making it clearer and more firm.
"No. I won't linger on my past failures anymore. Natasha has sacrificed so much for me. Now it's my turn to make her happy. Starting today, I will do my best to fulfill all her dreams," he declared, shaking his head firmly and clenching his fists with a fierce determination igniting in his eyes.
He glanced through the clothing store's window and a soft smile played on his lips as he saw Natasha captivated by that white dress adorned with floral patterns.
"Every wish... every dream... I'll make them a reality, no matter how much effort it take. Natasha, stay right here for me. This anniversary... it's going to be different. I'll make it special, I promise," With unwavering resolve, he declared. he started strolling down the street with a newfound purpose.
As he took a few steps, his feet halted abruptly in front on a shop as a glint of gold caught his eye. He was mesmerized by the showcase of a jewellery store. His eyes widened, captivated by something truly extravagant.
In a showcase, nestled amongst glittering diamonds and sparkling gems, there was a heart-shaped necklace. Crafted from pure gold, with the letter 'N' delicately engraved upon it's surface, hanging delicately under the shimmering store lights.
The necklace pulsed a warmth that mirrored the affection in Shaun's heart. He leaned in, captivated by necklace's exquisite beauty.
"Wow... It's... perfect. She'd love it."
Shaun's eyes lit up seeing that lavish piece, envisioning Natasha wearing it and gold was shimmering against her skin.
He wanted to purchase it, no matter the cost. However, as his gaze fell upon the price tag dangling beneath the necklace, his expression changed, a shadow of disappointment washed over his face, bringing him back to the harsh reality.
His hand reached his pocket, only to pull back immediately. A dry chuckle escaped his lips.
"Not again. This... I can't afford that. It seems my luck is still playing tricks on me. Every time I try to buy something for her, my misfortune push it further my reach."
The reality of his dire financial situation hit him like a cold wave, extinguishing the happiness he had just felt.
With a grimace, he turned to leave. But the vision of that necklace and Natasha's smile lingered to his thoughts. He hesitated as a storm of emotions swirled inside him. Shaking his head, he swiftly dismissed his earlier disappointment.
"No, Shaun. Not this time. That price doesn't matter. This is for Natasha. I have to get that necklace for her, whatever it takes."
He straightened his shoulders, with a fierce determination shining in his eyes. Taking a deep breath to fortify himself, he instinctively slipped his hand into his pocket, feeling the coins within.
"Alright. These should be enough... for Natasha's anniversary gift."
His eyes were fixed onto the heart-shaped pendant as its golden shimmer was reflecting his resolve. He was prepared to do anything to make this anniversary special for Natasha.
**********
Shaun was ready to step into the jewellery store. As he pushed the door open, the chime of the bell announced his arrival.
A smile spread across his face as he imagined Natasha's reaction upon receiving the necklace as a gift. Just as he took a step inside, everything around him twisted as the vibrant colours dissolves into an overwhelming, infinite darkness.
"What...? What just happened? What evil sorcery is this?" Shaun exclaimed, as his eyes spun around in astonishment.
The bustling street, the store, the crowd-everything vanished in an instant. All that was left was a chilling, infinite void.
"Wha-? Where am I? Where is everyone? Oh no... Natasha! Natasha, where are you?" Shaun moved ahead as his heart was pounding with a frigid sense of fear.
He made his cautious steps ahead, as he called out for her. The silence pressed in, broken by the echo of his own panicked breathing. Then, suddenly...
"Help! Someone, help me! Help! Please, help us! Help my children! Oh no! Someone, save us! Please, don't kill us, spare us! Aaaahhh!"
The unknown, eerie, distant cries, filled with anguish and fear, pierced through the silence of the darkness. Shaun, uneasy and astonished by those haunting cries, strained his ears to listen intently. His heart raced as he moved toward the source of those voices.
"Hello? Is anyone there? Please, tell me where you are! I'm on my way to help!"
He ran forward, chasing the echoes of the cries, yet found only the suffocating darkness surrounding him. The screams intensified, becoming more piercing- a haunting symphony of unseen suffering that was tearing through the quiet void.
He fell to his knees, pressing his hands firmly against his ears, squeezing his eyes shut as he swayed back and forth.
"No, stop it! Someone make it stop... please, just make it stop!"
**********
The screams echoing in his ears clawed at his sanity. Yet, slowly, those noises faded as they erupted. Feeling that, Shaun cautiously opened his eyes, lowered his hands from his ears and looked around. But what he saw caused his eyes widen in a mix of fear and astonishment.
"What the... Where... where am I?"
He looked at the empty stalls and a bewildered frown creased his forehead. Rubbing his chin, he wandered slowly through the abandoned stalls. With a cautious step, he moved forward, his sneakers were echoing on the empty pavement.
"This... this is the market, isn't it? I was just... here with my Natasha. Just a minute ago, it was bustling with people. But now... everyone just vanished. Where is everyone? What... What the hell just happened?"
In the eerie silence, dust motes were dancing gracefully, illuminated by the flickering flames of distant ruins. Burnt Buildings stood like ghostly silhouettes against the gray sky. The market stalls, once thrived with holiday cheer, now reduced to ashes as their colourful awnings were ripped and tattered.
A chilling breeze was whispering through the debris, carrying with it an ominous feeling. Crimson blood stained the white snow that had blanketed the ground. The extinguished festive lights were casting a long, eerie shadows across the lifeless bodies scattered across the streets.
Shaun made his way through those piles of corpses, his mind was swirling in disbelief at the chaos before him. The bodies lying beneath the crimson snow, some barely recognizable and some... were sending shivers down his spine, forcing him to clutch his winter coat tighter around himself.
With each step, a new wave of terror painted over his already trembling heart. He flinched at the sight of a child's teddy bear, resting abandoned in the crimson snow. As he examined each body, a deep sense of nausea gripped him, forcing him to look again and again.
"Natasha? Where is she? I hope she's alright. It's just a trick of my mind playing with me. Nothing has happened to her."
The wind howling through the shattered windows of the nearby buildings, carrying with it a faint scent of blood. With each step, frantic thrum of his heart echoed louder against his ribs. In the midst of chaos, Natasha's absence created a haunting void within him.
**********
Numerous corpses were scattered on the ground, drenched in a crimson violence. The ruined city before him was now a wasteland of ash and debris.
Yet Shaun kept moving forward, each step heavier than the last, yet resolute as a hope was flickering in his eyes, until... he finally arrived his destination.
The smell of smoke and decay was still in the air, a grim reminder of inferno consumed many stores, including... a clothing store lay in ruins before him. Yes, you guessed it right, the same clothing store where he last saw Natasha.
Upon seeing those lifeless bodies, fear ran through his veins like blood. But mustering his courage, he started examining each corpse individually. While examining them, his gaze landed on a figure dressed in familiar clothes and a knot tightened in his throat.
The body held a white dress adorned with vibrant, cheerful floral patterns, now stained crimson with blood. That sight sent cold shivers to his heart pounding wildly in his chest.
He fought his urge to turn that body, as fear loomed over to consume him. Yet, deep down, he knew that he had no choice. Summoning all his courage, he turned that lifeless body to reveal its identity.
Upon gazing at that expressionless face of the lifeless body, it felt as time has stopped. A chilling numbness took over him, as if the life had been ripped out of him. The world around him blurred, leaving only the horrifying reality before him.
Tears brimmed in his eyes, blurring his vision as his world crumbled before him. A deep pain surged in his chest like an open wound, and the only words slipped from his lips were,
"Na... Natasha?"
The woman lay before him, was none other than his beloved wife, Natasha. The woman he loved the most, who brought joy and meaning to his life, was lying before him like a lifeless doll.
He knelt beside her, gently holding her lifeless body. The warmth of his love replaced by a frigid grip of her absence. He gently lifted her head and rested it in his lap.
Her skin felt like ice, her eyes were close. The vibrant spirit that once sparkled within her was gone. Tears dwelled his face, blurring his vision.
"Natasha... Natasha, please get up. You can't do this to me. You can't leave me here all alone. I can't... I can't even imagine a life without you. Open your eyes, Natasha."
He held her with quivering hand, shook her gently with a desperate plea in his touch.
"Natasha, please... This isn't funny. Please, wake up. Natasha... I need you."
He clung to the fragile hope that this was just a nightmare, nothing more. But Natasha lay motionless, her eyes shut and her breath barely a whisper. Shaun imagined her awakening, her warm smile reappearing, but the cruel reality remained unyielding.
The morning's bliss, love they shared, was now a cruel mockery of despair. Mere hours ago, their life was brimming with love and joy but now, only emptiness lingered.
In his anguish, he surrendered, holding her close against his heart as his tears were falling onto her still face. With a voice barely a whisper, he kissed her forehead and said,
"I love you, Natasha... For all eternity... And beyond."
**********
The once vibrant marketplace now lay in smouldering ruins, littered with lifeless bodies. In the midst of this grim scene, Shaun was on his knees, holding Natasha's lifeless body in his arms and sobbing.
But soon, the heavy thud of footsteps shattered that silence, echoing through the debris and reaching Shaun's ears.
As Shaun shifted his attention from Natasha to the source of the sound, caught sight of a towering demonic shadow emerging from the flickering flames.
Stunned, Shaun's eyes were fixed on the ominous silhouette, wondering who that could be. Lost in his thoughts, he barely noticed as the shadow reached closer, stopping just in front of him.
That menacing figure loomed over Shaun, its height twice that of an average man, with malevolent yellow eyes burning like embers, and exerting an aura of death.
Shaun's gaze was drawn to bloodied sword clutched in creature's right hand, from which fresh blood dripped from its blade like a morbid waterfall in the firelight.
The Demonic Shadow's lips curled into a sinister grin, revealing it's razor-sharp, predatory teeth. With a guttural laugh, the Demonic Shadow said,
"Mmm... the despair... Your suffering ends now, mortal. Now DIE..."
A sinister laugh echoed as the demonic shadow swung its sword in a swift arc, aiming at Shaun's head. The air crackled with dark energy as the sword descended towards Shaun.
Shaun squeezed his eyes shut, bracing for the inevitable.
"No...!!!"
**********
"No...!!!"
With a jolting awake, Shaun opened his eyes, wide with terror. He gasped for breath, his chest heaving rapidly, soaked in a cold sweat.
"Huff... huff... huff... What was that?"
His trembling hands gripped the sheets tightly. As he looked around, he found himself sitting on a bedsheet in that familiar, small room. The haunting echoes of the dream clung to him, vivid and unsettling.
His heart was racing violently, his eyes were swollen and sweat dripping from his face like a downpour. He wiped his face and, in a wheezing voice, he said,
"Was that... just a nightmare? It felt... so real..."
**********