January 1, 2009 – Kingdom of Eva – Paradise Beach.

  Fireworks explode across the night sky, scattering shapes that seem to come alive.

  The canvas once reserved for the stars now gains new colors. Gathered people pop their champagne, embrace, kiss, smile in hope of a new beginning, of a new stage in their lives. Why not a new life.

  A flock of small birds called Aligeiros, already accustomed to this day, flies through the night sky above the Wall of the Chosen. Distancing themselves from the loudest noise, they arrive at a small district.

  Outskirts of Eva – Zone 47.

  Nearly the entire population of the region gathers around a small lake to admire the spectacle shining in the sky. Except for the wealthy who consider themselves too good to mingle, even in the outskirts. Also absent are the sick and elderly, forgotten in hospitals, homes, and asylums. The antisocial remain indoors.

  There are those who are simply too lazy and prefer to sleep, if sleep is even possible amid such noise. No dogs are seen nearby, poor creatures frightened by the explosions. In truth, no animals are visible at all, save for humans.

  In front of a martial arts gym somewhat removed from the lake, a bicycle is chained to a post. At this hour, it should already be closed, yet lights glow inside, along with faint sounds.

  A punching bag sways. Beside it, Sarah, drenched in sweat, delivers a mid height side kick followed by a straight right punch.

  Her hands grip the bag as though holding an opponent. Taking advantage of the proximity, she drives her knee forward again and again. After a brief step back, she gathers all her strength into her right fist and unleashes a blow that pierces the target.

  This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

  As she withdraws her hand, sand begins pouring onto the mat.

  "I am screwed."

  The memory of the gym owner’s warning resurfaces in her mind.

  "If you break one more piece of my equipment, you are banned. I do not care about your money. You do not even compete." Júlio holds a torn glove as he speaks. "You come at night whenever you want, and in the morning I find this. I will not tolerate it."

  She nods in reluctant agreement.

  Now, staring at the sand scattered across the floor, she exhales deeply. Retrieving a dustpan, broom, and trash bag, she cleans the mat. The damaged bag is placed in a corner, a folded sheet of paper and money beside it.

  After showering, she dresses in a gray hooded sweatshirt, loose athletic shorts, and running shoes. The lights are turned off. The gym is locked.

  Twelve minutes of cycling bring her to her refuge.

  Five minutes of climbing transform the still air into a powerful breeze. Silence dominates the platform. The fireworks have ended. The crowds have vanished.

  Above, the silver full moon reigns.

  Hours pass in quiet contemplation.

  Gradually, distant city sounds fill her awareness. Engines. Footsteps. Barking dogs. Even the faint song of Fai Fai creatures draws a smile from her lips.

  Then suddenly, her eyes open.

  The phone confirms her fear.

  Hurriedly, she descends.

  Street after street, she runs at full speed.

  Reaching home, relief washes over her. Júlio’s car is not yet there.

  Inside, another shower.

  Warm water cascades down her skin, dissolving the fatigue.

  Moments later, a knock.

  "Sarah. Are you awake?"

  "Wait."

  She dresses quickly.

  "I saw your light on," her father explains.

  "I just got home."

  He studies her silently.

  "You are an adult now. You have freedom."

  "You are drunk."

  A brief pause.

  "I have decided. I want to travel. I want to see the monks in the Mountains of Redemption."

  He watches her.

  She sends him away.

  Soon after, sleep claims her.

  Outside, clouds gather. Winds intensify. Trees bend violently.

  Within her mind, unrest stirs.

  Dreams.

  Memories.