Please let me find her .

Scene 8

Location: Blessing Park of Theomov

Kael sprinted through the bustling streets of Tetra Market, his eyes locked on the figure of the mysterious girl who had collided with him moments before. But the market was a maze of bodies and noise, and she was quick—far too quick for him to keep pace. As she vanished down a narrow alley, Kael had to rely on instinct. Without thinking, he veered left, trusting his gut.

The turn led him to the heart of Blessing Park, a place whispered to be touched by the gods themselves. Legends claimed that prayers made here with unwavering belief were destined to be fulfilled.

Kael skidded to a stop, his breath ragged. His eyes scanned the park, but she was nowhere in sight.

Kael (panting, frustrated): "I... lost... her."

Moments later, Karlus stumbled in behind him, breathing heavily.

Karlus (catching his breath): "Man, can't you give a guy a heads-up before sprinting off like that?"

Kael's chest tightened as he struggled to find the right words.

Kael (still breathless): "I lost her."

Karlus raised an eyebrow, confused.

Karlus: "What? Say that again."

Kael (more clearly now): "The girl—she was being chased. I... I just wanted to help her."

Karlus smirked, ever the tease.

Karlus: "And here I thought she stole more than just a glance."

Kael shot him a glare, but the truth was unsettling. His mind was racing, his heart oddly heavy for a stranger.

Kael: "No, I... I just couldn't leave her like that. But she's gone now. I didn't find her."

Karlus' face grew serious, sensing something deeper beneath Kael's words.

Karlus: "Then she took the other turn... the one leading away from here."

A wave of realization hit Kael. He had gone the wrong way. Disappointment gnawed at him as he scanned the park once more.

Karlus: "And you say you didn't lose your heart."

Kael (annoyed): "Stop joking around." (looking around again) "Where could she have gone?"

Karlus folded his arms, contemplating for a moment.

Karlus: "She might've headed to the Runway Bridge. There are only two paths. One leads here, the other there. If we don't find her at the bridge..."

Kael's voice was tight with urgency.

Kael: "Then what?"

Karlus hesitated, his tone darkening.

Karlus: "Then she's probably been caught."

The words hung heavy in the air. Kael's pulse quickened, dread clawing at him.

Kael: "And what happens to those who get caught?"

Karlus' gaze hardened, his next words filled with grim certainty.

Karlus: "Those with ordinary looks are sold as work slaves. But those with angelic beauty..."

Kael stepped closer, his voice sharp with tension.

Kael: "Speak up!"

Karlus hesitated, then continued, his voice quieter now.

Karlus: "They're sold as... sex slaves."

The weight of the revelation struck Kael like a physical blow. The thought of anyone laying a hand on her, forcing her into such a fate—it ignited a fire within him. His fists clenched, and an unfamiliar pain twisted in his chest.

Without even realizing it, Kael's lips moved in a desperate prayer.

Kael (whispering): God... let me find her. Take her to me, or take me to her. But until then, keep her safe... please.

Karlus watched him, his usual playful demeanor replaced by genuine concern.

Karlus: "Hey, don't make that face. There might still be a chance."

Kael looked at him, hope flickering in his eyes.

Kael: "How?"

Karlus: "Prince Noah. He knows this city inside out. If anyone can help us, it's him. Maybe he knows something about the girl."

Kael didn't hesitate. Without another word, he broke into a run, Karlus close behind, heading toward where they hoped they'd find Prince Noah—before it was too late.