The next morning, Soma took her little brother and set off on their new journey. She had made up her mind: she would grow stronger, gain a name for herself, and build the kind of reputation and influence that would help her reach her new goal. That’s why she decided to start by targeting conflict zones — places torn apart by turf wars — and take them down one by one, with Theo by her side.

  Her first stop? The region of Tractris — known for its endless turf disputes between newly formed guilds. It was the first time Soma would engage in a real battle with killing intent, not just training or self-defense. But despite that, she didn’t seem anxious or scared. Quite the opposite — she adapted frighteningly fast.

  That night, after hiding Theo in a safe place, Soma snuck into the enemy guild’s hideout. And without hesitation, she assassinated their leader. Cold and calculated. The sweet and gentle Soma… she was gone. What stood in her place now was someone else — someone who didn’t hesitate, didn’t flinch. Someone who no longer feared blood or guilt.

  And so, this became Soma’s new life: bloodshed, screams, and begging. Could this really be the life of a girl not even fifteen years old? A girl who had a ten-year-old brother depending on her? Theo… a kid who deserved joy, warmth, and love — not death, fear, and violence. He had already lost a mother’s hug and a father’s protection. Now, he was thrown into a world ruled by survival.

  Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

  But Soma was determined. She carved her path forward, one kill at a time. After slitting the guild leader’s throat with her twin daggers, she tried to escape — only to find herself surrounded by nearly twenty men, armed and furious, ready to avenge their fallen commander.

  They charged at her, convinced they’d win easily.

  But they were wrong.

  This was Soma — a warrior to her core.

  A dark smile crept onto her face. Her eyes dimmed, losing their light, and for a moment… she looked almost inhuman. She lunged like a shadow, killing two men instantly. Then she faced the rest and calmly said:

  > “Sorry for dropping by uninvited. But don’t worry, I’ve already completed what I came here to do. I have no reason to stay or spill more blood.

  That said — if any of you want to fight me, step forward. I never turn down a duel, no matter who it's with.

  But just know… fighting me only ends one way: with someone dead. I don’t do mercy.”

  Some of the men paused, realizing just how dangerous she was, and backed off. The others? Too cocky for their own good. They rushed her all at once.

  That’s when Soma unleashed a storm of violence. She moved like lightning, striking down man after man with inhuman precision. But no matter how skilled… one girl alone can only do so much.

  Soma was wounded.