14 Rei

The other kids looked up at Revan, there were more at this time. They looked up in awe, "Big brother is going to teach us? REALLY? Papa is it true, can we really fight like him."

The parents were less encouraging. "Just listen to them and they won't hurt you. Fighting will only get you hurt like your other brother."

The parents had mixed feelings. Some of them were scared and suffered from past traumas that kept them from believing. Others were miserable and this lead them to only think negatively. They were weak and scared. With all the parents saying no.... it started getting quiet. Some of the kids started to go back to their tents. "Come children, we have to prepare the next offering for the bandits or we will face issues."

Lucas: I'm sorry Revan, not everyone has my resolve, I'm basically an outlier

Revan was about to tell Lucas not to worry but a young voice filled with resolve filled the area. It was Rei, "I'll do it, will you please teach me."

Revan: Sure, I'll give you a few pointers but first you need to gain your strength. I'll bring some food back for you tomorrow first thing in the morning. After you eat we can rest and begin your training.

Rei didn't want to raise his head because he knew his actions weren't seen as proper. "I know that you gave us help and protected us from the bandits." His hands were balled into fists and his started to tear up a bit, he continued to look at the ground as his voice grew a bit shaky. "I know that you did all of this without getting anything from us. I know you're gonna help us defend ourselves but I want to ask you for one more thing. I may seem greedy but please, please. If you can, please bring some food for the rest of my family, we don't need much, just enou-"

Revan cut the boy off and rubbed his hand into the boy's hair. "Don't worry, I'll bring enough food for everyone."

The kids eyes all lit up, especially Rei's. The kids asked their parents. "Papa.... Mama, is the man telling the truth."

The parents wanted their kids to be happy but they were used to being let down. "Nothing is guaranteed kids, we must still prepare the offerings for The Black Hand."

Rei wiped the tears from his eyes and dropped to one knee. "If you can take care of my family, I promise you... my life is yours. I will do anything to repay your kindness."

Revan could feel the genuine words come from the depths of Rei's soul, it almost caused him to tear up as well.

Revan: Live and become strong... someone like your father or at least someone that he can be proud of, that is all I want you to do.

Rei finally stood up and cleaned his outfit up a bit. "I will forever be at your service."