Blood Runs Home

CHAPTER 2 : Broken Photo Frame

In a garden filled with blooming flowers, Piku sits on a picnic mat with his parents, Victor and Fiona Grayhusk. Warm sunlight filters through the foliage, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Laughter echoes through them, making Piku momentarily forget the heavy burdens that usually surround him.

However, that happiness didn't last long. Slowly, the smiles that had previously graced his parents' faces began to fade. The warm expressions turned cold and empty. Piku's eyes widened as he saw red stains appearing on their clothes, growing in number, until they finally turned into flowing blood.

“Dad… Mom… what happened to you?” Piku’s voice trembled, his breath coming in short gasps. He wanted to move, wanted to approach them, but his body felt stiff, as if something was holding him back.

Fiona stared at Piku with her eyes starting to lose their luster, her lips trembling as if she wanted to say something, but no sound came out. Meanwhile, Victor tried to reach out to Piku, but the blood that continued to flow made him fall, leaving a red stain on the picnic mat.

“Father! Mother! No! Please answer me!” Piku screamed, his voice echoing in the garden, which had suddenly turned dark. All the colors faded, the flowers wilted, and the sweet scent of the picnic turned into a piercing metallic stench of blood.

But when he tried to touch them, his parents vanished like blurry shadows blown away by the wind. Piku woke up, gasping for breath, his body covered in cold sweat. He realized it was all just a dream—a nightmare that felt so real.

In the corner of the room, Zyne sat with a concerned expression. “Piku, are you okay?” he asked in a soft yet concerned tone. He had been waiting there for some time, aware that something was bothering his friend.

Piku turned his head slowly, trying to calm his still heavy breathing. “Zyne? What are you doing here?” he asked, his voice hoarse.

Zyne stood up and walked over, a cup of warm tea in his hand. “Me? What did I do? Have you forgotten how often I pick you up? Earlier, I saw you restless in your sleep. You looked like you were fighting something terrible,” he said, handing Piku the cup. “I thought you might need this.”

Piku accepted the cup with slightly trembling hands. “Oh, right. I forgot. Thanks for the tea, Zyne,” he said simply, then took a sip. The warmth of the drink slowly helped calm his thoughts, though the images of the nightmare still lingered in his mind.

Zyne sat on the edge of the bed, watching Piku closely. “You don’t usually forget things like this, Piku. Is something wrong?” he asked, his tone softer, but full of concern.

Piku stared at the cup in his hand, watching the steam slowly rise. “I… just had a bad dream, that’s all,” he replied, trying to sound casual, though his voice and facial expressions betrayed his feelings.

Zyne sighed, placing a caring hand on Piku's shoulder. "Piku, I know you're stronger than you let on. But I also know you don't have to bear it all alone," he said firmly. "If something's bothering you, you know I'm here to listen, right?"

Piku looked up, a small smile forming on his face. “I know, Zyne. I just need some time to calm down. But thank you for always being there for me,” he said, trying to reassure his friend.

"Okay, buddy, hurry up and get ready. It's already 8:15. If we're late to campus, we'll be punished," Zyne said, glancing at the clock on the wall. He then stood up and gathered his bags, ready to leave.

Piku nodded slowly, trying to shake off the lingering nightmare that still haunted his mind. “I know, Zyne. I just need a moment,” he replied as he began to change.

Zyne smiled slightly, trying to lighten the mood. "Don't take too long, okay? If we're late, I'm sure we'll get a long scolding from the lecturer."

“Yeah, yeah, I know,” Piku replied in a slightly lazy tone, but he quickened his pace, realizing that time was ticking.

Zyne opened the bedroom door and waited in the doorway, making sure his friend didn't lose focus. "I'm here if you need anything, Piku. But if you're too slow, I might leave you," Zyne joked lightly.

Piku just shook his head, smiling slightly. “I won’t make you late, Zyne. Come on, give me five more minutes,” he said, straightening his hair in front of the mirror.

Zyne nodded. “Okay, five minutes. After that, I won’t wait any longer.” He chuckled and walked away, giving Piku time to finish his preparations.

Suddenly, Victor's soft yet firm voice rang out from downstairs. "Piku, Zyne, come down quickly! Breakfast is ready, and Mr. Garren is waiting for you in the car," he called out.

Piku quickly straightened the last of his clothes, then glanced at Zyne, who was still standing leaning against the bedroom door. "Okay, that's all done. Let's go downstairs now," he said, grabbing his bag.

Zyne smiled smugly. “Now that’s my best friend. Come on, before your mom comes upstairs and drags us in,” he joked, making Piku chuckle.

The two of them began descending the stairs, their steps greeted by the aroma of toast and warm tea filling the air. A warm and cozy atmosphere filled the Grayhusk family mansion. In the dining room, Fiona waited with a gentle smile, while Mr. Garren, the family guard, stood by the door, his usual stern posture and serious expression.

“Good morning, ma'am,” Zyne greeted Fiona kindly as he pulled out a chair for Piku to sit down. Piku followed him, though his mind was still a little disturbed by last night's nightmare.

“Good morning,” Fiona replied, pouring tea into their cups with graceful hands. “You should eat quickly. You have a busy schedule today, and I don’t want you to be late. Mr. Garren has been waiting for quite some time, too,” she added, occasionally glancing at the family’s loyal bodyguard.

Garren glanced at the three of them, but his gaze fell unnoticed on the Young Master, Piku. Piku, noticing this, returned the smile sweetly. The smile immediately reminded Garren of Piku's words from yesterday, causing him to quickly avert his gaze with an unreadable expression.

Zyne, oblivious to the slight tension between Piku and Garren, took a piece of toast and said lightly, “I never understood how you could be so busy, Piku. My college life was already overwhelming enough, but you always had something more.”

Piku chuckled, though it sounded a little dry. "That's because I have so much to balance, Zyne. Sometimes it feels like I'm a tightrope walker," he said, half-joking, but completely honest.

Fiona looked at her son lovingly, though her eyes held concern. "Piku, I know you're very busy, but never forget to take care of your health. No matter what happens, remember that this family is always here to support you," she said in a gentle yet firm voice.

Victor's words made Piku feel a little more at ease. He nodded and said, "Thank you, Mom. I'll keep that in mind."

Meanwhile, Garren remained silent, but his mind was busy replaying his conversation with Piku yesterday. The Young Master's stern gaze, accompanied by his threats, still rang clearly in his mind. Garren knew Piku was probably just messing around, but it only made him feel even more uneasy.

Zyne, trying to lighten the mood, said, glancing at the clock on the wall, “Okay, we should get going. If we’re late, we’ll be the target of the lecturer’s scolding.”

Piku picked up his bag, stood up, and glanced at his father with a faint smile. “We’ll go now, Dad. Thank you for breakfast.”

Fiona nodded, hiding her concern behind a warm smile. “Be safe on the road, children. And remember, don’t overexert yourself.”

Garren opened the door for them and bowed slightly as Piku and Zyne stepped through. “Please come in, Young Master,” he said in a formal and polite tone.

“Thank you, Mr. Garren,” they replied in unison, their voices warm yet respectful.

As they got into the car and the engine started, the atmosphere inside felt a little tense. Zyne, always sensitive to Piku's mood swings, tried to lighten the mood.

“Hey, Piku. After we finish at campus, how about we go to a cafe together?” he asked suddenly, breaking the silence that had enveloped them.

Piku, lost in his thoughts, jerked slightly and turned his head. “Huh? What did you just say?” he replied in a confused tone.

“Eh... I just wanted to invite you to relax, that's all,” Zyne replied with a small smile, trying to lighten the mood.

Piku replied with a faint smile, as if to hide his unease. “Yes, Zyne. I’ll come with you,” he said quietly but meaningfully.

Zyne immediately smiled broadly when he heard Piku's answer, then without hesitation hugged him tightly.

“Zyne, let me go. I… can’t breathe,” Piku said breathlessly, trying to catch his breath in his best friend’s embrace.

“Oh, I’m sorry, Piku. Hehe,” Zyne replied, releasing his hug and chuckling, looking a little embarrassed.

Piku caught his breath, placing a hand on his chest as if to make sure he could still breathe normally. “Zyne, you forget that I’m not as strong as you. Your dragon power is too great, you know?” he complained, though his tone was playful.

Zyne scratched the back of his head, an embarrassed expression still lingering on his face. “Hehe, I’m sorry. I was just too happy to see you cheerful again after looking so down for the past few days.”

Piku just shook his head slowly with a small smile. “I’m fine, Zyne. You don’t need to worry too much.”

Zyne stared at Piku seriously for a moment, as if trying to read something behind his friend's smile. “If anything happens, you know I'm always here for you, right?”

Piku was silent for a moment, then nodded gently. “I know, Zyne. Thank you.”

Zyne smiled again, this time more sincerely. “Okay, let’s get on with today. We don’t want to miss any important classes or fun campus activities.”

Piku nodded, though he still had many unanswered questions—about his nightmares, the mysterious threats, and the lingering ominous premonition. However, he decided to keep it all to himself for now, at least for Zyne's sake, who was always trying to make him feel better.

The car finally stopped in front of the majestic gates of Crestwood University, a renowned campus in Grimborough. Towering buildings, with modern architecture combined with classic touches, exuded a prestigious aura. The campus flag fluttered atop the tower, while students milled about in the front garden, adding to the lively atmosphere that morning.

Mr. Garren turned off the engine and got out to open the door for Piku and Zyne. "We're here, Young Master. Have a productive day," he said formally, looking at Piku respectfully.

Zyne came out first, breathing in the morning air with a wide smile. “Thank you, Mr. Garren. Piku, come out quickly, or I’ll come in without waiting for you,” he teased cheerfully, stepping forward casually.

Piku sighed, then followed Zyne, glancing at the bustling campus, which was starting to fill with students. "I have a feeling today's going to be a long day," he muttered, following his friend's footsteps.

Zyne turned with an optimistic smile. “Maybe, but it doesn’t matter. You just have to enjoy it, Piku,” he replied, patting his friend on the shoulder before they entered the busy campus area together.

"Wait a minute, Zyne. I need to talk to Mr. Garren first. You can go ahead, class time is almost up," Piku said, stopping his friend.

Zyne paused for a moment, looking around in slight confusion, but finally nodded. “Okay. But don’t take too long, Piku. If you’re late, don’t blame me for not waiting for you,” he said, flashing a small smile before continuing his walk towards the campus building.

After making sure Zyne was far enough away, Piku approached Mr. Garren, who was standing straight beside the car with his usual serious expression. “Mr. Garren,” Piku said in a low, emphatic tone.

“Yes, Young Master?” Garren responded quickly, his body tensing like a soldier ready for duty.

Piku glanced around, making sure no one was listening. "After we finish school, I won't be going straight home. I want to go to a cafe with Zyne," he said firmly. "So, no need to pick me up. Make sure you tell Dad and Mom this so they don't worry."

Garren nodded slowly, though his expression betrayed doubt. “Yes, Young Master. But are you sure you don't need me to drop you off or pick you up? Your safety is my priority.”

Piku let out a small sigh, offering a faint smile to ease the man's worries. "I'll be fine. Zyne will be with me, and I just wanted some relaxing time outside the mansion. There's nothing to worry about."

“If that is your wish, I will inform Mr. and Mrs. Grayhusk,” Garren replied, although it was clear he was still not completely calm.

“Thanks, Garren,” Piku said, patting him on the shoulder. “Take good care of the mansion, okay? Don’t let anything go wrong while I’m gone.”

“Of course, Young Master,” Garren replied with a respectful nod.

Piku then turned and walked towards campus with slow steps. Along the way, his thoughts were preoccupied with their plans at the cafe later. He felt that spending time with Zyne was the best way to forget the nightmares and stress that haunted him.

Meanwhile, Garren remained standing where he was, watching Piku leave with a worried look in his eyes. Despite Piku's orders, he knew full well that the Young Master rarely sought "peace" without risk. However, as always, he would be prepared for the unexpected.

Behind the shady trees surrounding the Grayhusk residence, Talon, the shadowy figure, continued to lurk. His sharp eyes surveyed the majestic mansion, which looked more like an impregnable fortress. His face was filled with anxiety, his lips whispering, “How can I complete this task? Their security is getting tighter. If only I had managed to kill their leader yesterday, everything wouldn’t be so complicated…” His tone conveyed both regret and frustration.

However, his racing thoughts were interrupted by a faint sound coming from the bushes behind him. He swiftly spun around, his body crouched in a ready-to-attack position. "Who's there?" he called sharply, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the area warily.

From behind a bush, Luna, a scout under the Boss's orders, quietly observed the situation. "Did he sense my presence?" she muttered to herself, trying to hold her breath to avoid detection. Her task was clear: ensure the shadowy figure carried out the mission without error. If Talon failed, she would report it—no matter the cost.

“Hey, you don’t have to hide from me,” Talon said, his voice sneering. “Luna, come out. I know you’re there.”

Luna sighed softly, realizing her cover had been blown. With confident strides, she emerged from her hiding place. "Talon, the Boss asked me to ensure you complete this task without fail. I'm simply following orders," she said coldly, her eyes intently fixed on the figure before her.

Talon snorted in annoyance, his face filled with anger. With heavy steps, he approached, his gaze lowered, as if looking down on Luna. Luna's small body, a feline with graceful yet firm posture, didn't faze him. "I don't need a supervisor! I know what to do," he said coldly, his tone scornful. "Tell the Boss I'll handle this my way. No one needs to interfere."

Luna remained calm, unaffected by the anger before her eyes. "The Boss just wants to make sure everything runs smoothly. You know very well that if we fail again, the consequences won't be light," she said firmly. "I'll report it, but remember, you're here to wipe out that family, not to play around."

Luna's sharp gaze made Talon look away, returning to the Grayhusk mansion. His eyes were once again filled with burning determination, but now with a hint of seething anger. Without another word, Luna turned and quietly left the scene, disappearing into the darkness of the trees.

After confirming Luna was truly gone, Talon snapped his beak. “They all doubted my abilities… Even the Boss,” he muttered in a low, yet emotion-filled voice. “Just you wait. I’ll prove to them that I’m more than enough.” With that, he refocused, planning his next move with determination and ambition.

On the way back to base, Luna's steps felt heavier than usual. The image of Talon continued to fill her mind, creating a worry she couldn't shake. "Will he be okay?" she muttered quietly, her gaze blankly staring at the road ahead. "If he fails... the Boss won't forgive him. Talon was too stubborn to ask for this mission. Why should I worry about him? It's none of my business."

But the more she tried to convince herself, the clearer the feelings that arose in her heart became. She stopped in the middle of the forest, staring up at the star-studded night sky. “Talon…” she whispered almost silently, her hands gripping the hem of her robe tightly. “Why should I care? I’ve never been like this before. Is this because… I have something for him?”

Luna took a deep breath, trying to calm her suddenly racing heartbeat. She didn't want to admit that her feelings for Talon might be more than just simple worry. But every time she thought of his gaze, heard his voice, or remembered his presence, Luna felt something shift inside her.

“He’s too stubborn and dangerous for me,” she said softly, trying to convince herself. “I just need to do my job, report everything to the Boss, and forget about this.”

However, despite her cold demeanor, her heart couldn't deny the growing feelings she had for Talon. With a heavy heart, Luna continued on her journey. But thoughts of Talon continued to plague her, like an invisible weight that always haunted her steps.

Upon arriving at headquarters, Luna headed straight for the Boss's office. She knocked firmly on the large wooden door, though her steps were hesitant. The Boss's deep voice from within invited her in. Carefully, Luna opened the door and stepped inside, maintaining a calm and professional demeanor.

The Boss, a man with an air of authority, sat in a large chair with a sharp gaze. “Luna, you’re back,” he said matter-of-factly. “How’s the surveillance on Talon?”

Luna bowed her head slightly before answering. “Talon is still on his mission, sir. He's keeping an eye on the Grayhusk family, but there are obstacles preventing him from approaching them. Their security has become tighter after the previous incident.”

The Boss tapped his fingers slowly on the arm of his chair, creating an almost eerie rhythm. His eyes narrowed. “Obstacle? Is that a sign that he’s going to fail?”

Luna swallowed, trying to maintain composure. “I can’t say for sure, sir. However, the situation is indeed getting more difficult. I feel Talon needs a new strategy or perhaps additional assistance to complete this task.”

The Boss chuckled, but his laughter was cold and mocking. “Talon is one of my best men. If he fails, it won’t be due to lack of ability, but to stubbornness.” He leaned forward slightly, staring intently at Luna. “And you, Luna, I didn’t ask you to propose a solution for him. Your job is to supervise, not to intervene.”

Luna felt the pressure of his Boss's gaze, but she remained firm. "Talon is still showing his dedication, sir. There are no clear signs of him giving up. It's just that the situation on the ground is getting increasingly unfavorable.”

The Boss was silent for a moment, then nodded slightly. “Okay. Keep an eye on him, and be sure to report any developments.” His gaze grew colder. “If Talon shows any signs of failure, you know what to do.”

Luna felt her heart beat faster, but she quickly hid her reaction with a respectful bow. "I understand, sir. I'll make sure everything goes according to plan."

The Boss smiled faintly, a smile that was more like a warning. “Go, and don’t disappoint me.”

Luna turned and left the room with firm steps, though her heart felt heavy. The Boss's words kept ringing in her mind: If Talon shows any signs of failure, you know what to do.

As she walked toward her own room, Luna gripped the hem of her robe tightly, trying to calm her thoughts. "What should I do if the order actually comes?" she muttered softly, her eyes wandering as if searching for answers in the silent hallways of the headquarters.

Luna walked heavily toward her room, her mind reeling from the anxiety she'd just received. "Should I kill him? No, that's impossible," she muttered softly, her eyes glued to the floor, unfocused. "How could I possibly do that..."

Her feelings were like two polar opposites—her duty as the Boss's loyal scout and the feelings she had long harbored for Talon. She paused, closing her eyes to calm herself, but her inner voice continued to scream. How could I kill someone who had always been a beacon of light in my darkness?

Her steps stopped in front of the long window overlooking the headquarters courtyard. The night seemed calm outside, but her heart was in turmoil. She stared outside, as if searching for answers in the silence. “Talon,” she whispered softly, her voice almost lost in the night breeze. “Please, don’t make the Boss angry. I… I don’t want to lose you.”

Her hands reached for the edge of the nearby table, gripping it tightly as if searching for a foothold amidst her emotional turmoil. Luna's chest felt tight, her mind filled with unanswered questions. What should I do if this situation worsens? If I had to choose between duty and my feelings, what would I choose?

The image of Talon's face haunted her mind again—his piercing gaze, the way he spoke with such conviction despite the obvious burden he was hiding. It only made Luna more certain of one thing: I couldn't let him fail. I had to help him, no matter the cost.

Determination slowly formed in her heart. Luna took a deep breath, trying to ease the tension that was choking her mind. “I will protect him,” she murmured softly, her voice filled with newfound confidence. “No matter what.”

With a purpose beginning to take root in her heart, Luna turned and left her room. Her steps were now heavier, carrying with them a decision that would change everything.