The Mystical Tale of Toleptera

 

 Chapter One

Deep within the heart of a dense forest, Ruther was on the hunt for game, driven by the urgency of the approaching winter. He and his aunt had to stockpile meat to see them through the cold months. As he moved through the underbrush, he also gathered dry leaves and sticks, essential fuel for warmth during the chill of winter. Suddenly, a rustling caught his attention. A bush was trembling, and he immediately assumed it might be a wild animal. Carefully, he straightened his bow, pulling back the string taut, and took aim at the bush. As he crept closer, his eyes widened in surprise; it wasn’t an animal at all but a young girl.

Intrigued, he approached cautiously. The girl was clad in a pink skirt, with a stark white top that contrasted with her long, lustrous black hair. Her eyes were a striking, unusual red, and her form was distinctly feminine. Her attire, however, was dirtied and worn, as if it had been endured for years. Yet, around her neck hung a locket, a symbol of the Simonsenth royal family—a detail that piqued Ruther’s curiosity. He settled beside her, ready to offer protection when she awoke.

When the girl stirred, she looked up at Ruther with a jolt of panic, fearing he might be one of her pursuers. However, Ruther's reassurances calmed her, allowing them to exchange words about their identities. She introduced herself as Hansara, concealing her true name, Harika, and the secrets of her past. She implored Ruther to keep her presence a secret from the villagers.

Together, they made their way to the village, where they were greeted by Ruther's aunt, Lucy. With a crafted story about Hansara’s presence in the forest, they managed to persuade Lucy to allow Hansara to stay, offering her a place and purpose at the farm.

Ruther watches Hansara settle into life on the farm, his curiosity about her growing with each passing day. The locket she wears catches the sunlight as she works, a constant reminder of the mystery surrounding her. He can't help but wonder about her true identity and the secrets she's keeping.

As they tend to the animals together, Ruther notices how quickly Hansara learns each task, her movements graceful despite her obvious lack of farming experience. Her red eyes dart around constantly, as if searching for hidden dangers. It sets him on edge, making him more aware of their surroundings.

"You're a natural at this," he says, trying to put her at ease.

Hansara gives him a tight smile. "I'm a quick learner."

He can't help but notice how quickly she picks up on the daily chores, her delicate hands soon calloused from milking cows and harvesting crops.

As autumn deepens, Ruther finds himself stealing glances at Hansara when she's not looking. There's something about her that doesn't quite fit - the way she holds herself, the careful way she speaks. The royal locket weighs heavily on his mind, a constant reminder that she's hiding something.

One crisp morning, as they work side by side in the barn, Ruther decides to probe gently. "Where did you learn to work so hard?" he asks, keeping his tone casual.

Hansara stiffens, her eyes darting to the barn door. "I... I've

had to," she says quickly. "Where I'm from, we all pitch in."

Ruther nods, not quite believing her. He watches as she turns away, her fingers absently touching the locket at her throat. There's a story there, he's sure of it. But he knows better than to push.

As they finish their chores, Ruther can't shake the feeling that Hansara is constantly on guard. Her eyes flit to the windows, to the doors, as if expecting danger at any moment. It makes his own skin prickle with unease.

Later, as they walk back to the house, Ruther notices a cloud of dust on the horizon. Riders, moving fast. His heart rate quickens. They don't get many visitors out here, especially not ones in such a hurry.

"Hansara," he says quietly, touching her arm. "We should get inside

. Hansara nods, her face pale. They hurry towards the farmhouse, Ruther's heart pounding. He can't shake the feeling that these riders are somehow connected to Hansara's mysterious past.

As they reach the porch, Aunt Lucy emerges, her brow furrowed. "Ruther, who could that be?" she asks, shading her eyes to peer at the approaching dust cloud.

Ruther glances at Hansara. She's trembling slightly, her eyes wide with fear. He makes a split-second decision. "Hansara, go inside. Hide in the cellar. I'll come get you when it's safe."

She hesitates for a moment, then nods gratefully and slips into the house. Ruther turns to face the road, his muscles tense. The riders are close now, their horses' hooves thundering against the sky.